Pro-Environmental Activities as a Condition for Increasing Efficiency and Improving the Safety of the Organization

Abstract

Purpose: The research aimed to identify the critical variables for improving the organization’s pro-environmental activities in the context of improving efficiency and safety. Design/Methodology/Approach: In the research process, to achieve the assumed research goals, it was decided to use the following research methods: the “Delphic Method,” the CAWI method (Computer Assisted Web Interview), and questionnaire research. Research on environmental performance measurement and indicators was conducted on a sample of 180 organizations with at least three implemented management systems: QMS (based on the requirements of ISO 9001); EMS (based on the requirements of ISO 14001), and OHSAS (based on the requirements of PN-N 18001 or OHSAS 18001). On the other hand, research on environmental activities was carried out on 103 production companies in the food sector. Findings: As a result of the research, it was proved that organizations are more and more willing to implement pro-environmental measures, which reduce the negative impact of the production process on the natural environment. The most important activity for all groups of organizations was to reduce the load of sewage and reduce the impact of the production process on the population. Practical Implications: A recommendation for the organization is to improve waste management, especially in limiting its generation, as well as continuous work on increasing the environmental awareness of employees and striving that pro-environmental activities are not perceived only as an additional cost for the organization, but also as a factor bringing financial and image benefits. In addition, organizations should constantly measure environmental performance, as it contributes to increasing the organization's effectiveness, improves the degree of strategy implementation, and thus improves the safety of management. Originality/Value: Environmental management is still a current and vital trend in research, as pro-environmental activities contribute to increasing efficiency and improving the organization's safety.