Only 30 Irish companies 10 per cent of the target have so far signed up to ISO 14001, the internationally recognised standard for environmental management, according to the National Standards Authority for Ireland (NSAI).

Upwards of 4,000 companies worldwide, mainly in the chemicals, pharmaceuticals and manufacturing sectors, now have environmental management systems which comply with ISO 14001. But its application here has been greeted with scepticism and even opposition.

The standard was introduced to Ireland in September 1996 amid fears that it would become yet another handicap, an unnecessary measure which would place an unwelcome burden on the back of Irish business. Hence, the low level of take-up.

According to the NSAI, there are about 300 companies in Ireland which could be expected to apply for ISO 14001 certification

mainly in the chemicals, pharmaceuticals, dairy and food processing, brewing, paper processing and electronics sectors.

The main motivation of companies in signing up to the standard is to deal with waste management. Others are interested in controlling pollution in the context of an overall plan to improve their manufacturing processes, thereby saving money.

A smaller number of companies perceive that there is a need to source raw materials from suppliers with good environmental track records a development that may come about, in any case, through consumer pressure for "greener" products.

Ireland is lagging behind other EU member-states, with companies apparently waiting for the Government to "crack the whip" before taking action or hoping that a derogation would be sought for Ireland should the standard become compulsory. The NSAI maintains that time is running out for companies which have not "plugged in" to the environmental message. Within the next three years or so, they may well find themselves forced to adopt ISO 14001, currently a voluntary commitment.

These pressures are likely to come from consumers demanding better environmental standards as well as from a tightening of the regulatory regime, through the operation of EU directives and the Environmental Protection Agency's licensing system.

The NSAI believes that industry would be "well-advised" to adopt the ISO 14001 standard now while the economy is strong rather than take a gamble on being obliged to do so later when economic conditions might not be so favourable to change. Another factor is the length of time it takes to achieve the required standard. It can take up to two years to get ISO 14001 certification.

In terms of cost, companies applying to qualify for the standard can buy into the expertise provided by the NSAI for fees of about £4,000 to £5,000.