Environment: Eco-management and audit scheme EMAS, voluntary participation by organisations (amend. regul. 1836/93/EEC)

The European Parliament in its second reading recommended by Cristina GARCIA ORCOYEN TORMO (EPP/ED, Spain) amended the Council's common position as follows: -there is provision for increased involvement from employees' representatives. -the environmental statement will pay attention to results achieved and consider the information needs of relevant parties. -the environmental statement will be validated annually. Exceptions permitting a three-yearly validation are approved under specified circumstances. -there are increased provisions for reporting to the Parliament. -the system to promote participation will operate so as to reduce the administrative burden for businesses in general and small businesses particularly. -the Commission will encourage Member States to draw up a protocol of intent on common guidelines on penalties. -the environmental statement will be laid before the public -the verifier must have knowledge of industrial implications. Further requirements are set out. -there is no mention of the obligation to use best available technology in the amendments at second reading.�