Deployment of Environmental Management Systems in South African Small and Medium Enterprises

Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) form part of most enterprises in South Africa (SA). SMEs contributes immensely to SA Gross Domestic Product (GDP). However, the impact of the environment on SMEs cannot be overemphasized. Environment is a critical factor for business, which requires steady consideration and a reasonable integration in SMEs business procedures. Environmental Management System (EMS) is used for consistent evaluation, review and environmental performance improvement, which in turn helps organizations achieve its environmental goals. This study focused on developing a framework that will inform the deployment of EMS in SMEs. Through the lens of an interpretivist philosophy, the study adopted different scientific methods along its deductive approach. In conclusion, factors needed for the deployment of EMS in SMEs were identified. The identified factors were used to develop a framework which can be used for deployment of EMS.