Tools: Audit
An audit is, strictly speaking, a checklist-based monitoring tool in the form of a gap analysis. There are several functional types:
- Legal-compliance audit: determines the legal framework and compliance.
- Performance audit: examines the success of performance objectives and whether company goals have been reached.
- System audit: tests the functionality of a management system.
A “biodiversity audit” for instance could combine the first two functions.
Management Cycle Stages
Using a systematic management “plan-do-check-act” cycle to implement a corporate biodiversity management process allows for proper business orientation, for example, as is used when part of the Eco-Management and Audit Scheme (EMAS) or ISO 14000.
Finding the business-specific relationship between company and biodiversity is, however, made more difficult by the complexity and extent of biodiversity (ecosystem, species, and genetic pool). The criteria “rareness” and “endangerment” of species and habitats act as a point of orientation. Aids in determining such threats to biodiversity such as the “Red List”, the European Union’s Habitats Directive along with the EU’s Birds Directive and the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES).
Scientific expertise is often required in cases where specific plans are made. This is an area where local environment and nature conservation groups can provide businesses with technical know-how, representing an opportunity to deepen the cooperation with regional NGOs.
Screen - S
Screen and identify fields of action
Check - C
Measure success
