Groundwork practices what it preaches

Groundwork staff member Mike Beere and Executive Director Cliff Ellison with the certificate

Groundwork Oldham & Rochdale has been awarded an internationally recognised environmental certificate.

The charity already operated to BS 8555 standards and recently had their system externally audited and achieved ISO 14001 accreditation. Having already passed the initial audit the successful stage 2 process took place in April 2012.

ISO 14001 is an internationally recognised standard for the environmental management of businesses. It prescribes controls for those activities that have an effect on the environment. These include the use of natural resources, handling and treatment of waste and energy consumption.

Cliff Ellison, Executive Director at Groundwork Oldham & Rochdale, said: “We are very pleased to have passed the ISO 14001 audit. As an organisation that advises on environmental improvements to other local businesses, it is vital that we’re practicing what we preach and reducing our negative impact as much as possible. The ISO 14001 accreditation along with our other recent accredited standards will also strengthen our position when bidding for new work.”

As a result of the process of obtaining ISO 14001, Groundwork Oldham & Rochdale expects to benefit from cost savings and a reduction of their carbon footprint over the next few years. Environmental objectives for the coming year include a 2.5% reduction in gas consumption and a 5% reduction of fleet fuel usage.

Amongst a number of other services, Groundwork offers environmental and resource efficiency advice to local businesses. The Trust is more than happy to share the knowledge and experience of the ISO 14001 process with companies that want to improve their environmental management and performance.