The role of total quality management in the development of environmental management practices

Abstract

The impact of industrial development on the natural environment has resulted in a greatly changed business climate. Continuing external pressures demand businesses look at ways to address the environmental concerns of stakeholders. In becoming more proactive in their environmental management, companies are experiencing competitive benefits. There appear to be important links between the management of environmental performance and the practices companies employ for managing product quality. Procedural and conceptual similarities between TQM, best manufacturing practice and environmental management are increasingly well documented. The application of quality management to environmental management is relatively new to New Zealand and research in this area, and in particular industry groups, is limited. A study of New Zealand plastics manufacturers was undertaken in order to determine the factors influencing the development of these companies' environmental management practices. In this context, the role of quality management was explored. The study found a strong applicability of TQM to environmental management. As with quality management, the customer, employees, use of technology, and senior management commitment were among the key areas affecting environmental management practices.