Fort Detrick has completed the requirements of EO 13423 by establishing a fully implemented EMS a full seven months ahead of the Department of Army requirements.

The environmental standards established by the International Organization for Standardization 14001 are designed to help organizations minimize negative effects on the environment and comply with applicable laws and regulations.

The overall concept is to establish an organized installation-wide EMS, to include all mission partners, tenants, and garrison organizations.

The main approach is to systematically reduce the impact of the environmental aspects within the installation’s control.

Fort Detrick began its journey to ISO 14001 conformance in 2000.

After nine years of hardwork and preparation, an Environmental Performance Assessment System audit in January 2009 found that Fort Detrick met the requirements of ISO 14001 EMS. Four minor nonconformances to program standards were identified during the EPAS audit, but these minor nonconformances will be corrected before Sept. 30, 2009.

Concluding the entire process, Col. Judith Robinson signed Fort Detrick’s EMS self-declaration memorandum on May 28, 2009.

The next step is to successfully integrate EMS with Fort Detrick’s Sustainability and Strategic Plans.

Fort Detrick has taken a very proactive approach to implementing its EMS program and stressing beyond environmental compliance, incorporating the Army’s Strategy for Environment: Sustain the Mission, Secure the Future.

Fort Detrick’s EMS supports many of the targets, goals, and objectives established by the sustainability and strategic planning process, such as reduction of energy consumption.

It all ties into getting a more effective system in place, and also getting the community involved.

Teamwork is an essential part to achieving any of the targets and goals Fort Detrick has set within EMS, Sustainability and Strategic Planning.

To join an EMS or Sustainability goal team, please call the Environmental Management Hotline at (301) 619-0044.