Ministerial Foreword
I am pleased to have been appointed Environment Minister, and chair of
the Ministerial Sub-Committee on Green Ministers ENV(G). The role of ENV(G)
is to improve the performance of Departments in contributing to sustainable
development and to consider the impact on sustainable development of Government
policies.
The Framework for
Sustainable Development on the Government Estate requires new
and consistent reporting. By spring 2004, targets should be in place covering
the main environmental and social impacts of Government Departments and
their executive agencies. These targets will guide future action.
I am encouraged by the steps Departments have already taken, and by progress so far, for example:
- Departments are increasingly adopting Environmental Management Systems which provide systematic processes for analysing, controlling and improving environmental performance.
- More numeric information is now available, and a baseline has been established for future reporting on social impacts of Government as employer and on local communities.
- Departments have committed to measures which will provide better protection and management of sites important for biodiversity.
The Government recognises that much more needs to be done and appropriate resources must be allocated to support sustainable development through the management of the Estate. I will work with my Ministerial colleagues to take forward this vital work.
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