Implementation of ISO 14001:2015 with Strict Adherence to Risk Monitoring using Risk Register for Sustainable Waste Management and Life Cycle Assessment

 Implementation of ISO 14001:2015 with Strict Adherence to Risk Monitoring using Risk Register for Sustainable Waste Management and Life Cycle Assessment: A Holistic Approach

Introduction:

In the pursuit of sustainable waste management practices and the integration of life cycle assessments (LCAs), the implementation of ISO 14001:2015 plays a pivotal role. This essay explores the intersection of ISO 14001:2015, risk monitoring utilizing a risk register, and the holistic approach to sustainable waste management and LCAs. Drawing insights from a comprehensive study on open-loop recycling methods and an assessment of waste plans in Metro Manila, this discussion aims to underscore the importance of a systematic and risk-aware approach to achieve sustainable waste management goals.

ISO 14001:2015 and Life Cycle Assessments:

ISO 14001:2015, an international standard for environmental management systems, provides a robust framework for organizations to address environmental aspects and impacts, ensuring continuous improvement. Integrating this standard with LCAs enhances the environmental performance evaluation, aligning with the broader goal of sustainable waste management. The standard's emphasis on a systematic approach to environmental management complements the complexities involved in LCAs, providing a structured foundation for organizations.

Risk Monitoring and Open-Loop Recycling:

A crucial aspect of ISO 14001:2015 is the incorporation of risk-based thinking into organizational processes. Applying this concept to the LCAs discussed in the comprehensive study on open-loop recycling methods allows organizations to identify and manage uncertainties effectively. The risk register becomes a central tool, capturing the sequence of events, relevant issues, needs, expectations, and uncertainties associated with open-loop recycling.

Risk Register Table for Material Recovery Facility Operation:

SequenceStatement of Relevant Issues/Needs & ExpectationsType of IssueInterested Parties (IP)Effect/Impact on Objective & GoalSpecific RiskOpportunityRO OwnerRO IndicatorCompliance ObligationControl ImplementedRisk ImpactLikelihoodRisk ScoreRisk LevelProject, Activity, Programs (PAPs to Address Risk/Opportunity)
1Operational disruptions due to equipment failureInternalFacility staffDelayed waste processingEquipment breakdown causing downtimeProactive equipment maintenanceFacility ManagerDowntime DurationRegulatory RequirementsRegular Maintenance224MediumEquipment Maintenance Program
2Fluctuating market prices for recycled materialsExternalRecycling IndustryFinancial uncertaintyMarket price volatility affecting revenueIdentify diverse revenue streamsProcurement ManagerMarket Price TrendsMarket ConditionsDiversify Revenue Streams313MediumMarket Diversification Strategy
3Non-compliance with waste segregation regulationsIPLocal CommunitiesRegulatory sanctionsLegal penalties for non-complianceImprove waste segregation educationCompliance OfficerAudit FindingsEnvironmental LawsEmployee Training313MediumEducation and Training Programs

Risk Assessment Narrative Report

1. Operational Disruptions due to Equipment Failure

Statement of Relevant Issues/Needs & Expectations: The risk identified is related to potential operational disruptions resulting from equipment failures within the material recovery facility.

Type of Issue: Internal - Pertaining to the facility's internal operations.

Interested Parties (IP): Facility staff - The employees and workers involved in the daily operations of the facility.

Effect/Impact on Objective & Goal: The risk poses a threat of delayed waste processing, impacting the facility's efficiency and overall waste management goals.

Specific Risk: The specific risk is associated with equipment breakdown causing downtime, leading to interruptions in waste processing.

Opportunity: The opportunity lies in implementing proactive equipment maintenance strategies to minimize downtime and enhance operational efficiency.

RO (Risk Owner) Owner: Facility Manager - The individual responsible for overseeing and managing the facility's day-to-day operations.

RO Indicator: Downtime Duration - A measurable indicator reflecting the duration of operational downtime caused by equipment failure.

Compliance Obligation: Regulatory Requirements - Compliance with regulations regarding the maintenance and operation of waste management facilities.

Control Implemented: Regular Maintenance - Implementation of regular maintenance schedules to prevent equipment breakdowns.

Risk Impact (Score Rating 1,2,3): 2 - Moderate impact on operations due to potential delays.

Likelihood (Score Rating 1,2,3): 2 - Moderate likelihood of equipment failure.

Risk Score (Risk Impact x Likelihood): 4 - Moderate risk score.

Risk Level: Medium - Moderate risk level.

Project, Activity, Programs (PAPs to Address Risk/Opportunity): Equipment Maintenance Program - Implementation of a structured program for equipment maintenance to mitigate the identified risk.

2. Fluctuating Market Prices for Recycled Materials

Statement of Relevant Issues/Needs & Expectations: The risk involves financial uncertainty due to fluctuating market prices for recycled materials.

Type of Issue: External - Relating to external market conditions.

Interested Parties (IP): Recycling Industry - Stakeholders involved in the buying and selling of recycled materials.

Effect/Impact on Objective & Goal: The risk may impact financial goals, with market price volatility affecting revenue generated from recycled materials.

Specific Risk: The specific risk is related to market price volatility affecting revenue streams from recycled materials.

Opportunity: The opportunity lies in identifying diverse revenue streams to counter the impact of market fluctuations.

RO (Risk Owner) Owner: Procurement Manager - The individual responsible for managing procurement and revenue-related activities.

RO Indicator: Market Price Trends - Monitoring and analyzing trends in market prices for recycled materials.

Compliance Obligation: Market Conditions - Compliance with market conditions affecting the pricing of recycled materials.

Control Implemented: Diversify Revenue Streams - Implementation of strategies to diversify revenue sources.

Risk Impact (Score Rating 1,2,3): 3 - Significant impact on revenue due to market volatility.

Likelihood (Score Rating 1,2,3): 1 - Low likelihood of extreme market fluctuations.

Risk Score (Risk Impact x Likelihood): 3 - Moderate risk score.

Risk Level: Medium - Moderate risk level.

Project, Activity, Programs (PAPs to Address Risk/Opportunity): Market Diversification Strategy - Implementation of strategies to diversify revenue streams and minimize the impact of market fluctuations.

3. Non-Compliance with Waste Segregation Regulations

Statement of Relevant Issues/Needs & Expectations: The risk involves regulatory sanctions due to non-compliance with waste segregation regulations.

Type of Issue: Interested Parties (IP): Local Communities - Residents and stakeholders affected by waste management practices.

Effect/Impact on Objective & Goal: Non-compliance poses the risk of legal penalties, impacting the facility's adherence to environmental laws and waste management goals.

Specific Risk: The specific risk is associated with legal penalties for non-compliance with waste segregation regulations.

Opportunity: The opportunity lies in improving waste segregation education to ensure compliance with regulations.

RO (Risk Owner) Owner: Compliance Officer - The individual responsible for overseeing compliance with waste management regulations.

RO Indicator: Audit Findings - Monitoring audit findings related to waste segregation compliance.

Compliance Obligation: Environmental Laws - Compliance with laws and regulations governing waste segregation and management.

Control Implemented: Employee Training - Implementation of training programs to enhance employee awareness and compliance.

Risk Impact (Score Rating 1,2,3): 3 - Significant impact due to potential legal penalties.

Likelihood (Score Rating 1,2,3): 1 - Low likelihood with effective employee training.

Risk Score (Risk Impact x Likelihood): 3 - Moderate risk score.

Risk Level: Medium - Moderate risk level.

Project, Activity, Programs (PAPs to Address Risk/Opportunity): Education and Training Programs - Implementation of educational and training programs to ensure compliance with waste segregation regulations.

Challenges and Considerations in Metro Manila's Waste Management:

The application of ISO 14001:2015 principles, especially risk-based thinking, resonates with the challenges identified in Metro Manila's waste management system. Gaps in SWM planning methodologies, undervaluation of waste generation data, and inadequate monitoring and evaluation align with the risk-based approach promoted by ISO 14001:2015. The proposed investments in centralized facilities and enhanced collection methods can be viewed as proactive measures to mitigate identified risks and capitalize on opportunities for improvement.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, the integration of ISO 14001:2015, risk monitoring through a risk register, and a holistic approach to sustainable waste management and LCAs provides a robust framework for organizations. The risk-aware perspective aligns seamlessly with the complexities involved in LCAs, ensuring a systematic and continuous improvement approach. The risk register for the operation of a Material Recovery Facility exemplifies how this integrated approach can be practically applied to address operational uncertainties, comply with regulations, and seize opportunities for enhancement. The emphasis on collaboration and replicability underscores the potential for these strategies to be applied beyond Metro Manila, serving as a template for sustainable waste management practices across the Philippines.

References:

  1. Modeling recycling in life cycle assessment. (n.d.). https://www.lifecyclecenter.se/wp-content/uploads/2020_05_Modeling-recyling-in-life-cycle-assessment-1.pdf. Retrieved January 19, 2022, from https://www.lifecyclecenter.se/

    An Assessment of Municipal Solid Waste Plans, Collection, Recycling and Disposal of Metro Manil. (n.d.). https://openknowledge.worldbank.org/entities/publication/36961b9e-179e-5885-ae70-4cf6f237c6ee/full. Retrieved January 8, 2023, from https://openknowledge.worldbank.org/

  2. ISO 14001:2018 - Environmental management systems - Requirements with guidance for use.

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