New EPA approach to environmental auditing promotes cost-effective prevention and improvement.
Environmental auditing is changing to focus more on preventing pollution and improving environmental systems rather than just meeting regulations. The EPA is encouraging a collaborative approach that rewards companies for achieving environmental goals. Companies are reevaluating their auditing practices due to stricter laws, public awareness, and international standards like ISO 14000. Investors are favoring companies that take proactive measures to minimize environmental risks. The role of internal auditors is becoming more important in evaluating environmental systems.