Environmental management systems in small island states : the case of Malta, Cyprus and Iceland

Abstract

This dissertation involves a comparative study between three European small island states - Malta (Mediterranean), Cyprus (Mediterranean), and Iceland (Northern Europe). This comparative study seeks to investigate various concepts regarding environmental quality management and its infrastructure in these small island states. Environmental management schemes (with particular reference to ISO 14001, Acorn scheme, and EMAS) are considered for organisation located in these small island states. The effectiveness of implementation of the environmental management schemes is investigated through a series of questionnaires targeted to the following: - Organisations in small islands states that have implemented and certified and environmental management system; - Organisations in small islands states that have not for some reason or other implemented and/or certified and environmental management system; - The competent bodies and authorities responsible for environmental management systems in the small island states. Over 130 organisations responded to these questionnaires. Results obtained are presented and analysed. Statistical tools are used to produce descriptive and inferential statistics. Any significant difference with regards to responses received considering the size, type, country of origin, and status of EMS certification of the organisations are considered. Through the responses received and data collected, a clearer picture is available with regards to the particular situations faced by organisation in small islands states when implementing environmental management systems. The study establishes a number of points particular to small islands states which result in a positive or negative effect when implementing environmental management systems. The responses also allow also the establishment of those aspects faced by the responsible authorities in the small island states which create the infrastructure for such systems to be available, implemented and maintained. The results confirm that there are indeed particular factors that apply to organisations located on a small Island stale. Suell factors are both benefiGial and problematic. Benefits include the proximity to the personnel of responsible authorities for advice, as well as the improved reputation with customers, which are becoming more environmentally aware. Perceived drawbacks include the high per unit cost of compliance and promotion. These and other factors as well as the significance of the results obtained are discussed. The role of the national body responsible for the EMS is also defined as per responses received. A number of recommendations are also presented which highlight the need for more awareness on EMS, initiatives by government to favour organisations implementing an EMS including the implementation of green public procurement.