Various influences determine how an Environmental Management System (EMS) for a mining or petroleum project is
developed and administered. These influences include the environmental and resource legislation applying to the project,
the culture of the organisation, the environmental sensitivity of the area, and the administrative policies of the regulatory
agencies involved. While financial penalties and even imprisonment may be imposed for non-compliance with
environmental legislation, there are other compelling reasons for the establishment of an effective EMS. If a company
wishes to be considered by Governments for the grant of exploration or mining rights, it is important that it can
demonstrate environmentally responsible operations at existing facilities.