EMAS Helpdesk 2020 – advancing sustainability management in Europe

The path towards sustainable growth presents considerable challenges for businesses and corporations. The development of an internal sustainability management system is one of these challenges. The EMAS Helpdesk was created to support businesses with overcoming these obstacles, for instance through answering complex questions regarding the European Eco-Management and Audit Scheme (EMAS). It further aims to raise public awareness about the content and dissemination of EMAS.

The EMAS Helpdesk is accessible for all corporations, government agencies, environmental groups, researchers, trade unions and the general public inside and outside the EU and the European Economic Area (EEA). The Helpdesk compiles information on all participating organisations registered with EMAS as well as all environmental auditors with accreditation.

adelphi and its partner organisations jointly operate the Helpdesk. On behalf of the Directorate-General for Environment of the European Commission, they have promoted and disseminated information about EMAS for ten years. This includes organising events, updating the EMAS website, and creating communications and information material. Moreover, the Helpdesk conducts research on topics related to EMAS in order to improve its integration with other policies.

In 2020, a particular focus was placed on the European Green Deal and sustainable finance. Specifically, adelphi highlighted the overlap between EMAS and contemporary issues of relevance to the EU. The EMAS Helpdesk further aims to facilitate access to EMAS for all organisations through information material on the annexes to the EMAS Regulation, compiling case studies and success stories.