Integrating Rainwater Harvesting Into Your Environmental Management System
This article provides a framework for businesses considering integrating rainwater harvesting into their environmental management system (EMS) with the aim of complying with ISO 14001.
What Is ISO 14001?
ISO 14001 is an international standard that specifies requirements for an effective EMS. It is a voluntary standard but many organisations choose to pursue ISO 14001 certification as a way to improve their overall environmental performance and to demonstrate their commitment to a sustainable future.
As well as being a sustainable and responsible practice, rainwater harvesting can be integrated and considered as part of your EMS to meet ISO 14001. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help get you started!
Assessment & Planning
- Conduct a thorough assessment of your site to determine the feasibility of rainwater harvesting.
- Identify areas where rainwater can be effectively harvested, such as rooftops. Use our handy rainwater harvesting catchment calculator to determine your minimum tank size.
- Determine where the water storage can be located – e.g. above or below ground.
- Consider local climate patterns, rainfall intensity, and potential water demand.
Regulatory Compliance
- Ensure that your rainwater harvesting system complies with local regulations and standards related to water use and environmental practices.
- The Environment Agency will not regulate harvested rainwater provided its use does not harm the environment. To learn about this you can click here to read more on this publication.
Set Objectives & Targets
- Establish environmental objectives and targets related to water conservation through rainwater harvesting.
- Define measurable goals, such as a percentage reduction in reliance on mains water.
- Define potential demand for rainwater harvesting – e.g. toilet flushing, machinery washdown.
Design & Installation
- Design an efficient rainwater harvesting system based on the assessment.
- Incorporate appropriate filtration systems to ensure the collected rainwater meets quality standards.
- Install rainwater storage tanks or other appropriate storage facilities.
Employee Training
- Train employees on the purpose and operation of the rainwater harvesting system.
- Provide education on the importance of water conservation and how their actions contribute to the success of the rainwater harvesting initiative.
Monitoring & Measurement
- Establish a monitoring system to regularly assess the performance of the rainwater harvesting system.
- Measure and record rainfall, water consumption, and the efficiency of the harvesting system.
- Implement a regular maintenance schedule to ensure the system operates optimally.
Documentation & Record Keeping
- Document all aspects of the rainwater harvesting system, including design specifications, installation records, and maintenance procedures.
- Keep accurate records of water consumption, savings, and any relevant data to demonstrate compliance with ISO 14001.
Communication & Stakeholder Engagement
- Communicate the benefits of rainwater harvesting to stakeholders, including employees, customers, and the community.
- Engage with stakeholders to gather feedback and continuously improve the rainwater harvesting system.
Continuous Improvement
- Regularly review and update your rainwater harvesting practices to improve efficiency and address any issues.
- Use feedback and performance data to continually improve the environmental management system.
Audit & Certification
- Conduct internal audits to assess the effectiveness of the rainwater harvesting system.
- Seek external certification or verification to demonstrate compliance with ISO 14001 standards.
By integrating rainwater harvesting into your business, you are contributing to water conservation efforts and demonstrating a commitment to sustainable and environmentally responsible business practices.
Contact Us To Find Out More
In the quest for sustainability and compliance with ISO 14001 standards, integrating rainwater harvesting into your environmental management system emerges as not just an innovative solution, but a necessary step towards a greener future. Please get in touch today to find out more about our rainwater harvesting systems and retention systems and join us in making a significant impact on our planet's future — one raindrop at a time.
