ISSE ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY

 

Purpose and Scope

This policy outlines the ISSE’s commitment to environmental protection. This applies to all activities and thereby provides a foundation for ISSE members to implement environmental management practices suited to their chosen service provision. Notwithstanding this Environmental protection is included within the ISSE Gold Standard Registration Scheme educational training programme which incorporates a rigorous initial validation and periodical revalidation process.

Policy Statement

    • Environmental Management System – The ISSE has developed and maintains an Environmental Management System (EMS) aligned with ISO 14001:2015, which identifies significant environmental aspects, sets objectives and allocates resources as applicable.
    • Legal compliance and pollution prevention – ISSE Procedures are compliant with environmental laws and seek to prevent or mitigate pollution.
    • Resource efficiency and life‑cycle thinking – The ISSE minimises consumption of energy, water and materials and considers life‑cycle impacts, focusing on recyclable materials and reduced waste.
    • Waste hierarchy – The ISSE applies the waste hierarchy (reduce, reuse, recycle) and ensures safe disposal of hazardous waste.
    • Climate action – The ISSE commits to achieving net‑zero carbon emissions by 2050 and to setting interim targets via its Foundation Supporting and continuing membership of the Construction Industry Council (CIC).
    • Employee training and awareness – Environmental training is provided. All ISSE event planning and procurement considers environmental impact.
    • Stakeholder engagement – The ISSE encourages members and suppliers to conserve energy, reduce emissions and implement sustainability initiatives, consistent with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, Biodiversity Development Goals and Inner Development Goals.
    • Continuous improvement – The ISSE Environmental objectives and targets are monitored and reviewed periodically, and its policy is reviewed annually.

Responsibilities

    • Board of Directors – Provide leadership and resources.
    • Environmental Manager/Champion – Maintain the EMS and coordinate initiatives.
    • Staff and Volunteers – Participate in training and follow environmental beneficial procedures.

Customisation Guidance

ISSE Members are encouraged to tailor their EMS to reflect their environmental risks, size and activities. For organisations with significant environmental aspects, additional procedures and legal permits will be necessary. Smaller organisations may implement simple policies focused on recycling and energy conservation.