About Us
Environmental Management Systems
History
Since 1989, Cedar Grove Composting has operated a commercial composting facility in unincorporated King County, Washington, between Renton and Maple Valley. In cooperation with, and with support from the Seattle-King County Department of Public Health (SKCDPH) and the Puget Sound Clean Air Agency (PSCAA), Cedar Grove's Maple Valley Facility has developed an Environmental Management System (EMS), incorporating principles established by ISO 14001. This EMS is in the secondary stage of development having completed nine operational years.
Philosophy
Senior management and the owners have embraced the EMS concept. One unique and applicable aspect of the EMS process revolves around the concept of continuous improvement. Truly effective environmental management systems do not appear in a few weeks. The implementation and employee participation in process alterations builds over a period of months and years. As a culture builds to support and understand these principles, the true value is realized.
Process
Cedar Grove is committed to the EMS process and decision making structure. It has five basic phases: policies, planning, implementation, corrective monitoring, and review. This format provides accountability for action and allows for continual improvement. The system is very appropriate for the composting industry. The industry has learned a lot, but still must refine manufacturing practices and develop positive relationships with local communities. In this way, the citizens of Washington, both locally and region wide, will share in the benefits of recycling biodegradable material.
Impact of Activities
New operational procedures or research will be coordinated so as to reduce possible impact to the environment. Changes will be addressed in a systematic way and the ramifications of each change will be documented and understood before a new direction in production occurs.
Products will be designed to prevent pollution and reduce waste. Consumption of resources evaluation will be part of product development.
Since 1989, Cedar Grove Composting has operated a commercial composting facility in unincorporated King County, Washington, between Renton and Maple Valley. In cooperation with, and with support from the Seattle-King County Department of Public Health (SKCDPH) and the Puget Sound Clean Air Agency (PSCAA), Cedar Grove's Maple Valley Facility has developed an Environmental Management System (EMS), incorporating principles established by ISO 14001. This EMS is in the secondary stage of development having completed nine operational years.Philosophy
Senior management and the owners have embraced the EMS concept. One unique and applicable aspect of the EMS process revolves around the concept of continuous improvement. Truly effective environmental management systems do not appear in a few weeks. The implementation and employee participation in process alterations builds over a period of months and years. As a culture builds to support and understand these principles, the true value is realized.
Process
Cedar Grove is committed to the EMS process and decision making structure. It has five basic phases: policies, planning, implementation, corrective monitoring, and review. This format provides accountability for action and allows for continual improvement. The system is very appropriate for the composting industry. The industry has learned a lot, but still must refine manufacturing practices and develop positive relationships with local communities. In this way, the citizens of Washington, both locally and region wide, will share in the benefits of recycling biodegradable material.
Impact of Activities
New operational procedures or research will be coordinated so as to reduce possible impact to the environment. Changes will be addressed in a systematic way and the ramifications of each change will be documented and understood before a new direction in production occurs.
Products will be designed to prevent pollution and reduce waste. Consumption of resources evaluation will be part of product development.
© 2008 Cedar Grove Composting