The Business Environmental Performance Initiative (BEPI) is an initiative by amfori that aims to help companies improve their environmental performance in global supply chains through a comprehensive environmental management system. This system supports companies in identifying, managing, and improving their environmental impacts, promoting sustainable business practices.
The amfori BEPI initiative was established with the aim of providing a structured and efficient approach to environmental management within supply chains. The initiative was launched in response to the growing need for transparency and sustainability in global trade, offering companies tools and resources to improve their environmental footprint and comply with international environmental regulations.
Components Evaluated
The amfori BEPI audit covers a wide range of critical environmental areas, including:
- Environmental Management System: Evaluates the existence and effectiveness of the environmental management system implemented by the company to ensure sustainable practices.
- Energy and Climate: Analyzes energy consumption and greenhouse gas mitigation strategies, encouraging energy efficiency.
- Emissions to the Atmosphere: Examines atmospheric pollutant emissions and the control measures implemented to minimize air quality impact.
- Water and Effluents: Assesses water usage management and effluent treatment, encouraging consumption reduction and sustainable water resource management.
- Waste: Examines waste production and management, promoting reduction, reuse, and recycling to minimize environmental impact.
- Biodiversity: Evaluates the impacts of the company's activities on local biodiversity and promotes practices that protect and preserve ecosystems.
- Chemicals: Analyzes the use and management of chemical substances, promoting substitution with less harmful alternatives and responsible management.
- Noise: Examines the company's noise emissions and mitigation measures to minimize the impact on the environment and local communities.
Applicability
The amfori BEPI audits are applicable to a wide range of companies within global supply chains, including manufacturers, suppliers, and other stakeholders in the industry. The tool is used by both large multinational corporations and small to medium-sized enterprises that wish to improve their environmental performance and meet the growing expectations of consumers and regulators regarding sustainability.
Audit Process
The amfori BEPI audit process is meticulous and aims to ensure the accuracy and credibility of the environmental data reported by companies. APCER is qualified to perform the role of verifying these data. The process includes:
- Member InvitatioProfile Creation: The company creates a profile and fills in location details.
- Risk Assessment: The amfori platform generates a risk assessment based on the company's activities, including relevant Environmental Performance Areas.
- Assignment of Improvement Activities: Based on the risk profile, the amfori member requests the company to undertake environmental monitoring or implement other improvement activities.On-site Audit: APCER conducts the on-site audit and prepares a report.
- Technical Review of the Audit Report
- Report Submission: The auditor submits the final report on the amfori platform within ten business days after monitoring.
- Follow-up Audit: Investigates only the initial findings. Scheduling is recommended between 2 and 12 months after the initial audit to allow for the implementation and documentation of necessary improvements.
Audit Frequency
To ensure continuous monitoring and constant improvement, amfori BEPI audits must be conducted annually. This frequency allows companies to closely monitor their environmental performance and implement improvements regularly and systematically.
