In the ever-evolving tapestry of environmental responsibility, understanding the 'what' and 'why' of Environmental Audits is crucial. Beyond regulatory compliance, audits serve as the compass guiding your organization towards sustainable practices, operational efficiency, and stakeholder trust, in harmony with NEMA's guidelines. Embark on a transformative journey towards environmental excellence with ASK Eco-Capital Services Uganda Limited, your steadfast partner in aligning your operations with the green heartbeat of Uganda, in full compliance with the National Environmental Management Authority (NEMA) regulations.

1. ASK ECO-CAPITAL SERVICES (U) LIMITED SOP 3
1
ENVIRONMENTAL COMPLIANCE AUDITS
Environmental Audits involve a structured approach to assess an organization's
compliance with environmental laws and regulations, as well as its own environmental
policies and practices. Beyond regulatory compliance, audits serve as the compass
guiding your organization towards sustainable practices, operational efficiency, and
stakeholder trust, in harmony with the guidelines of the National Environmental
Management Authority (NEMA).
Unlocking Environmental Audits: A Closer Look
What Are Environmental Audits? Environmental Audits, in the context of NEMA,
transcend procedural checklists; they are strategic roadmaps guiding your
organization towards a sustainable future. These comprehensive assessments evaluate
adherence to environmental laws, regulations, and NEMA's best practices, ensuring
your operations align seamlessly with national standards.
Why Consider Environmental Audits?
• NEMA Compliance: Navigate the complex web of regulations, including the
National Environment Act, 2019, National Environment (Audit) Regulations of
2020, ensuring adherence and avoiding legal repercussions.
• Risk Mitigation: Unearth potential environmental risks and liabilities in
alignment with NEMA's guidelines.
• Operational Brilliance: Enhance efficiency and sustainability to meet and
exceed NEMA's standards.
• Trust in Action: Build stakeholder confidence by showcasing your commitment
to environmental responsibility, as per NEMA's expectations.
When to Consider an Environmental Audit:
• Annual Environmental Compliance Audits: Typically, environmental
compliance audit required by NEMA are undertaken annually, unless otherwise
required by the Authority.
• Ongoing Vigilance and Staying ahead of Regulatory Changes:
Organizations are encouraged to conduct internal environmental audits to
determine whether planned strategies and are properly implemented,
maintained and conform to the regulatory requirements. The audit report of this
exercise is confidential. It belongs to the company and does not require
submission to the Authority or to a lead agency.
• Organizational Shifts: Seamlessly integrate environmental practices during
mergers, acquisitions, or organizational changes in line with NEMA's guidelines.

2. ASK ECO-CAPITAL SERVICES (U) LIMITED SOP 3
2
Procedure For Conducting Environmental Audits
This audit procedure should be tailored to the specific context and needs of the
organization being audited. It's essential to maintain transparency, objectivity, and a
systematic approach throughout the audit process to ensure credibility and
effectiveness.
1. Pre-Audit Planning
• Objective Setting: Define the scope and objectives of the audit, including
compliance checks, system performance evaluation, and identification of
improvement areas.
• Regulatory and Policy Review: Review relevant environmental laws,
regulations, and company environmental policies to understand compliance
requirements.
• Tailored Planning: Craft an audit plan aligned with NEMA's unique
requirements.
2. Data Collection and Review
• Document Review: Collect and review environmental policies, permits,
previous audit reports, waste management records, emission data, etc.
• Interview Preparation: Prepare a list of personnel for interviews, including
facility managers, environmental officers, and operational staff.
3. On-Site Audit Activities
• Opening Meeting: Conduct an opening meeting with site management to
discuss the audit plan, scope, and schedule.
• Facility Inspection: Tour the facility to observe operations, inspect
environmental control measures, and identify potential areas of non-compliance
or risk.
• Employee Interviews: Interview selected staff to verify understanding and
implementation of environmental policies and practices.
• Data Verification: Cross-check collected information with on-site observations
and interviews to ensure accuracy.
4. Data Analysis
• Compliance Evaluation: Assess compliance with applicable environmental
regulations and internal policies.
• Risk Assessment: Identify and assess environmental risks, including potential
for accidents or incidents.

3. ASK ECO-CAPITAL SERVICES (U) LIMITED SOP 3
3
• Performance Evaluation: Evaluate the effectiveness of environmental
management practices and pollution control measures.
5. Audit Reporting
• Draft Report Preparation: Prepare a draft audit report outlining findings, areas
of non-compliance, risks identified, and recommendations for improvement.
• Review with Audited Entity: Share the draft report with the audited entity for
fact-checking and to provide an opportunity for them to respond to findings.
• Final Report: Finalize the audit report, incorporating feedback from the audited
entity. The report should include an executive summary, detailed findings,
recommendations, and an action plan.
6. Post-Audit Activities
• Closing Meeting: Conduct a closing meeting to discuss the audit findings and
recommended actions with site management.
• Follow-Up Plan: Develop a follow-up plan to monitor the implementation of
audit recommendations.
• Record Keeping: Ensure all audit documentation, including reports, interview
notes, and data sheets, is securely stored for future reference.
7. Continuous Improvement
• Feedback Loop: Establish a mechanism for regular feedback on the
implementation of recommendations and continuous improvement of
environmental practices.
• Periodic Review: Schedule periodic environmental audits to ensure ongoing
compliance and improvement.
By Who: Entrust your Environmental Audits to the seasoned experts at ASK Eco-
Capital Services Uganda Limited, aligning seamlessly with NEMA's requirements. Our
EHSQ professionals bring a wealth of experience, ensuring compliance tailored to your
unique business needs while meeting NEMA's standards.