Biodiversity Benchmark

The biodiversity benchmark was founded by the Wildlife Trust as a way for organisations to monitor and improve their impact on the environment. It aims to help organisations structure their impact assessments and measure their progress.

It is an independent process open to every organisation and is a structured form of self-assessment, based on guidelines for firms to follow.

The Wildlife Trust is keen to encourage businesses to address important environmental issues voluntarily. The scheme is therefore a positive management tool that any business can use.

The benchmark is based on ten components:

1. Commitment
2. Survey
3. Assessment
4. Legislation
5. Planning
6. Implementation
7. Measurement
8. Partnerships
9. Communications
10. Review

An independent assessor accredits the benchmark, following a visit and verification that your self-assessment aims have been achieved. If you have not achieved the necessary standards to gain the award then the assessor will provide improvement guidelines.

The Biodiversity Benchmark is accredited for two years and during this time the logo can be used to advertising your firm's success.

The benchmark can be held alone or make an important step towards the ISO 14000 or EMAS standards.

As with all environmental standards the benchmark has various benefits such as the good publicity and advertising, proof of your firm's commitment to environmental issues, competitive advantage over others without similar standards and demonstration of your firm's corporate and social responsibility.

To apply for the Biodiversity Benchmark the cost is £100.

To gain the award and become accredited fees must be paid, starting at £850 for small businesses rising to £3,600 for multi-site or multi-national companies with a £50 million turnover or more.

For more information please visit www.biodiversity-benchmark.org or contact the forum.