Environmental policy

Strategic thinking on sustainable development has become a reality and a necessity for companies. The concept of "sustainable development", long confined to a political ideology, was often opposed to notions of industrial or economic development for a company or a region. The idea of associating sustainable development with the acceptance of a form of reasonable economic degrowth was also part of the arsenal of the concept's detractors.

The publication of ISO 26000 in November 2010 (guidelines on social responsibility) has given content and meaning to the principles of sustainable development. This standard confronts organizations with their responsibilities. It considers them responsible for the positive or negative impact their decisions and activities may have on society, the environment and the local economy. This standard therefore proposes that organizations adopt ethical behavior that will enable them to contribute to the sustainable development of their business and our society.

The environmental component of the "sustainable development" triptych (economic, social, environmental) is important, as it is at the heart of the current concerns of civil society and the political world. Companies are well aware of the importance of not disappointing their partners on this point, so as not to compromise their future development capabilities. The December 2004 ISO 14001 standard "Environmental management systems – Requirements and guidelines for use" provides an effective framework for implementing good management practices in this area. The characterization and implementation of these practices must be based on the prior definition of a relevant environmental strategy and policy.

The aim of this article is to demonstrate the importance of this political commitment, and the need for it to be sincere, realistic, relevant and shared by all concerned. It is important to establish this environmental policy while taking into account any economic and social constraints the company may face. The environmental policy should not be seen as a fixed commitment on the part of the company, but as part of its overall development strategy, to be reviewed periodically in the light of changes, challenges and the company's economic and social context.

Then, and this is not the easiest part, you have to harmonize the company's decisions, and especially those of its management, with its message.