When you hear about business management, you automatically think of things that usually come with it, like finance, employee productivity, and product development. However, another very important aspect of business management is often overlooked: environmental management.

The environment is where businesses operate. It is the source of the raw materials they need to produce their products and services. It is also the place where they dispose of their waste. Businesses have a legal obligation to protect the environment. Not to mention that climate change can impact almost everyone, including businesses.

That’s why every business’s responsibility is to protect the environment. Not only because it’s the right thing to do but also because it’s a legal responsibility of businesses. There are several environmental laws that businesses must comply with. Depending on the type of business, different environmental regulations might apply. However, there are some general environmental obligations that all businesses must follow. Here are some of those.

1. Obtaining permits and licenses

Environmental permits and licenses are required to help protect the environment. The process of obtaining these permits and licenses can be complex, but it is important to ensure that all environmental legal obligations are met.

There are a variety of environmental permits and licenses that may be required, depending on the type of business and its activities. For example, businesses that discharge waste into waterways must obtain a water discharge license.

Failure to obtain the necessary permits and licenses can result in significant penalties, including fines and imprisonment. As such, businesses must ensure that they comply with all environmental and legal obligations.

2. Having an environmental-friendly workplace

One of the things businesses must do to protect the environment is to ensure that their workplace is friendly to the environment. There are several ways to make a workplace more environmentally friendly. For example, businesses can use energy-efficient lighting and appliances. They can also recycle and reuse materials whenever possible.

When it comes to workplaces, businesses can adopt sustainable spaces for work. These are usually open-plan offices that allow for more natural light and ventilation. These workspaces not only help the employees to be more productive, but it also helps to save energy and resources.

A number of green buildings have also been designed with the environment in mind. These buildings make use of sustainable materials and energy-efficient features. They also have a smaller carbon footprint than traditional buildings. Legally speaking, businesses must ensure that their workplace is safe and does not pose any risks to the environment.

3. Handling and storing chemicals safely

Handling and storing chemicals safely is one of the business’s legal obligations to the environment. In the UK, for example, the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002 (as amended) (the COSHH Regulations), enforced by local authority environmental health departments, require businesses to control exposure to hazardous substances to prevent ill health.

Local authorities can take enforcement action against businesses that fail to comply with the COSHH Regulations. In addition, businesses that breach the COSHH Regulations may be liable for civil claims for damages brought by employees or others who have suffered ill health from exposure to hazardous substances.

Accordingly, businesses must ensure that they comply with the COSHH Regulations. This will involve assessing the risks from exposure to hazardous substances used by the business and taking appropriate measures to control those risks, including ensuring that appropriate storage and handling facilities are in place.

4. Managing waste properly

Every territory has its own rules and regulations when it comes to waste management. Businesses must comply with the waste management rules and regulations that apply in their jurisdiction. This is important because improper waste management can lead to pollution and contamination of the environment.

There are a number of ways to manage waste properly. Businesses can reduce the amount of waste they generate in the first place. They can also recycle and reuse materials whenever possible. When it comes to waste disposal, businesses must ensure that they do so in a way that is safe and does not cause pollution.

Businesses must store their waste safely and properly dispose of it. There are many ways to manage the waste of all types, including hazardous waste. Proper waste management is important for businesses to protect the environment and comply with the law.

5. Preventing pollution

Businesses have a legal obligation to prevent pollution. Pollution is the contamination of air, water, or land which has harmful or poisonous effects on humans, animals, or plant life.

Businesses must take all reasonably practicable steps to prevent or minimize their pollution. This may include installing pollution control equipment, monitoring emissions, and ensuring that staff is trained in environmental best practices.

Failure to prevent pollution can result in enforcement action, including fines. In addition, businesses may be liable for clean-up costs if their pollution causes environmental damage. As such, preventing pollution should be a key priority for any business with an environmental impact.

Businesses have a legal obligation to protect the environment. Compliance with environmental regulations is not only important for the environment but also for the business itself. A clean and healthy environment is essential for businesses to continue operating successfully.