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Sustainability Information
and Communication Systems

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What is a Sustainability Information and Communication System? (SICS)

A Sustainability Information and Communication System is the central knowledge tool of an environmental manager/sustainable policy maker.
It consists of a relational database with several modules, containing internal and external environmental and social data.

external data:

  • indicators
  • articles, reports and media clippings
  • regulations and legislation (global, national,...)
  • standards and criteria (ISO 14001, EMAS,...)
  • information from and about stakeholders
  • ...

    internal data:

  • the environmental policy and objectives
  • the environmental programme
  • rules and procedures
  • manuals
  • internal and external reviews and audits
  • compliance reports
  • information about and communication with stakeholders
  • ...

    Why use a Sustainability Information and Communication System?

    Because of the growing complexity of environmental issues, the environmental manager/sustainable policy maker needs a system, in which (s)he can integrate all data, allowing for easy access, updating and processing. The resulting knowledge can be used in many ways:

    * to minimize potential liabilities
    * to prepare for certification under ISO 14001 or EMAS
    * to communicate with stakeholders
    * to create environmental awareness among employees
    * to negotiate better bank loans and insurance fees
    * to design eco-friendly products or services
    * to illustrate continuous improvement
    * to calculate cost savings
    * ...

    How to set up a Sustainability Information and Communication System?

    Now you can set up your own Sustainability Information and Communication System in 4 easy steps:

    1. choose which information modules you want to integrate in your SICS
    2. choose a hardware server platform (Windows, Mac, Linux) or have Ecotopia host your SICS
    3. feed the information into the database, incl. data from remote locations, using a simple web browser
    4. select from a number of report templates or create your custom lay-outs


    That's it! You can make it as comprehensive as you see necessary. The Ecotopia SICS imports and exports to all flat file database formats, making it easy to integrate with your general management decision support system.

    Ecotopia also provides all kinds of custom services, including setting up your own fully functional SICS (hardware and software) à la carte.

    For more information, mail info@ecotopia.biz, or call + 32 3 3129373.
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