Shell awarded ISO 14001 Certification

Shell main plant in Tsing Yi has been awarded ISO 14001 certification, the only environmental standard recognised worldwide. Shell is the first oil company in Hong Kong to be accredited by the Hong Kong Quality Assurance Agency local authority, and the award demonstrates that Shell's efforts and performance in environmental protection are of international stature.

By introducing ISO 14001 guidelines into Shell's own environmental policy, the company has increased its operating efficiency as well as helped improve the environment.

Implementing the ISO 14001 guidelines has delivered practical benefits including lowering operating costs through such measures as reducing waste paper and using energy more efficiently. But more importantly, working to meet ISO 14001 standards has helped Shell develop a clear-cut environmental policy and raise awareness of green issues and Shell's commitment to improving the environment among staff, contractors and customers.

Shell is extending the guidelines to all its business units. For example, Shell recently became the first oil company to install vapour recovery systems in its filling stations and at the Tsing Yi plant to recover fuel vapour effectively during fuel loading.

Shell is also committed to supporting community project. The Shell Better Environment Awards Scheme, Jointly organised by Shell and Friends of the Earth, has already sponsored more than 600 community projects such as the "Stop Engine Idling' campaign, and is now in its eighth year. Shell has also sponsored a number of afforestation programmes to help improve Hong Kong's air quality, and has answered government calls to reduce pollution and wastage by measures as varied as collecting waste lube oil and recalling old Christmas cards for recycling.