An example of an environmental aspect and its corresponding impact is the emission of greenhouse gases (aspect) leading to climate change (impact).
Here's a more detailed breakdown:
Environmental aspects are elements of an organization's activities, products, or services that can interact with the environment. Environmental impacts are any change to the environment, whether adverse or beneficial, wholly or partially resulting from an organization's environmental aspects.
In simpler terms:
- Aspect: The cause or activity that affects the environment.
- Impact: The effect or change to the environment caused by the aspect.
Consider this table for another illustration:
| Aspect | Impact |
|---|---|
| Discharge of wastewater into a river | Water pollution, harm to aquatic life |
| Use of electricity | Depletion of natural resources, air pollution from power generation |
| Generation of solid waste | Landfill accumulation, soil and water contamination |
| Oil Spill | Soil contamination, harm to wildlife |
| Air Emissions | Atmosphere pollution |
Let's further elaborate with an example focusing on manufacturing:
Scenario: A manufacturing facility that produces plastic bottles.
- Environmental Aspect: Consumption of raw materials (plastic resin), energy consumption (electricity and natural gas), and release of air emissions (volatile organic compounds or VOCs) from the manufacturing process.
- Environmental Impact: Depletion of natural resources (fossil fuels used to produce plastic), contribution to greenhouse gas emissions and climate change, and air pollution leading to respiratory problems and smog.
Therefore, by understanding the environmental aspects of activities and their potential impacts, organizations can work towards mitigating negative effects and promoting sustainable practices. This can involve implementing cleaner production technologies, reducing waste generation, conserving resources, and complying with environmental regulations.
