21 October 2019

ECB environmental statement 2019

This environmental statement is a summary of the ECB's focused efforts over the previous year and offers a glimpse into the innovative work of numerous dedicated teams and individuals across the ECB who strive to bring positive change for the future.

Overall, the Environmental Management System at the European Central Bank continued to perform well in 2018. The ongoing improvement in both its environmental performance and the communication around it is visible in the results reported above. The trends linked to the identified significant environmental aspects have shown a general improvement, with some aspects performing better than others. Despite this divergence in performance of significant aspects over the past few years, the ECB environmental footprint has been shrinking, meaning that less and/or better-sourced energy has been consumed, and fewer resources have been used to ensure the functioning of the sites.

By means of a systematic approach to environmental management, the ECB has successfully managed to gradually reduce its carbon footprint over the past few years. In addition, with a new cycle of the Environmental Management Programme about to commence, previously set environmental objectives have been reviewed, new objectives have been outlined and corresponding measures have been identified in line with the ECB’s commitment to continual environmental improvement.

Internal engagement appears to be the key factor in achieving the objectives and related measures. It is essential for all levels of staff and the ECB as a whole to maintain their environmental commitment and active engagement, including the mainstreaming of environmental considerations into all administrative activities at the ECB.

The challenge will therefore be to maintain a continuous improvement, as conceived by the EMAS framework, also in consideration of the changes in workplaces and building performance. The Green ECB and all the Environmental Representatives will need to step up their efforts even further, with the strong and sustained support of senior management. The ECB will also need to closely cooperate with contractors responsible for catering and cleaning services, building refurbishment and IT systems.

Full publication on ECB

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