Ten years of the collective Environmental Management System: what new dynamics?

Abstract

INRAE’s collective Environmental Management System (EMS), launched in 2013, aims to achieve high standards of environmental protection and serve as a model of excellence for its experimental units and facilities. Embedded in the institute’s Corporate social responsibility (CSR) strategy, the EMS enables the assessment and reduction of INRAE’s environmental impact while ensuring consistency between research activities and day-to-day operational practices. Led by INRAE Management Board and coordinated by the National Commission for Experimental Units and the Prevention Division of the Human Resources Department, the EMS is founded on a collective and participatory governance model. It is built around four key objectives: compliance with environmental regulations, pollution prevention, alignment with the institute’s strategic priorities, and continuous improvement of practices. As of 2025, 56 entities are involved in this collective approach, including 34 that have obtained ISO 14001 certification — an international standard recognizing robust environmental management systems. INRAE provides tools, training, methodologies, and support to help units join this initiative and work toward certification. This EMS initiative is a key component in addressing environmental challenges. It continues to evolve, with future prospects including streamlined processes to better integrate cross-cutting approaches, and a potential expansion to other types of entities such as research units, joint research units, service units, and technological platforms.