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Environmental management system

An environmental management system is a structured approach for managing an organisation’s environmental responsibilities and impacts. It commonly includes policies, objectives, responsibilities, monitoring and improvement processes. Auditors or assurance practitioners consider the engagement criteria and the quality of evidence rather than assuming the existence of a system proves environmental claims are accurate.

Worked example

A manufacturer tracks energy use and waste against environmental targets and investigates unusual increases; an assurance practitioner evaluates the selected evidence and criteria.

Common mistake

A documented environmental policy or certification does not automatically establish that every sustainability disclosure is accurate.

Where it appears in your exams

QualificationExamRelationshipPeriod
ACCA AAA (INT) Supporting September 2026–June 2027
ACCA SBL Direct September 2026–June 2027