Environmental Performance Measurement Framework

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In an effort to understand and improve our performance against our stated objectives and targets, WD has developed a performance measurement framework (PMF). The information collected will help WD assess progress and to identify areas where improvement is required.

In order to establish the PMF, WD has committed to undertaking a number of tasks. Each task is outlined below and a detailed description called: A Guide to the WD Performance Measurement Framework, is contained in the EMS Manual.

Planning
WD has developed a PMF that is appropriate given the nature and scope of its operations and SDS objectives and targets. In planning the PMF, WD addressed the following issues:

• priorities
• actions
• applicable environmental aspects
• timetable
• resources

• evidence of senior management commitment

Developing Performance Measurement Indicators
WD has established procedures for defining performance measurement indicators that are used to measure achievement against each stated objective. To ensure contribution toward government-wide reporting on environmental performance from its operations, we have selected common performance indicators as suggested in the document Sustainable Development in Government Operations: A Coordinated Approach, where applicable. The performance indicators to be used are listed in Table 3: WD SDS Goals, Objectives and Targets.

In addition, WD has assigned roles and responsibilities to each of the performance measurement indicators. This information is contained within the WD EMS Manual.

Setting of Targets
Once the WD objectives were set and performance indicators chosen, the SD team set clear, measurable and time-bound targets for all objectives. Each target is linked to a performance indicator. The measurement against these targets will be the basis of the WD performance measurement that will be included in the sustainable development section of the annual Departmental Performance Reports.

Collecting Baseline Data
For each objective and target, there is a plan to collect baseline data. The baseline data will use the identified performance indicator and can be either a historical number or it can be a new baseline set at zero, as would be the case when establishing baseline data for a new program. In most cases the applicable baseline data is known or can be estimated but where this is not the case clarification of the baseline figures may trigger adjustment of targets set within the SDS.

Baseline data will be collected for each target by March 31, 2002.

Reporting
Once performance data has been collected, measured and analyzed, WD uses this information to prepare a report that can be provided to employees, stakeholders, and the public. Employees are informed of the department's progress in meeting the objectives and targets via e-mail. Stakeholders and the public can access progress reports available on the Internet.

Reviewing and Improving Performance
Procedures have been established to compare performance indicator data against established targets. Performance is reviewed and monitored regularly on a national basis and evaluated to identify opportunities for continuous improvement.