Donbasenergo continues its transition efforts and implementation of the environmental management system (EMS) in accordance with the requirements of ISO 14001:2015. Preparation for certification was started by the Company in 2014, but in September 2015 a new version of the environmental standard, ISO 14001:2015 was issued. It foresees a three-year period for transition of the environmental management system built in accordance with ISO 14001:2004 to the new management standards. To ensure proper and efficient transition, Donbasenergo passed through an external diagnostic audit for compliance of the already implemented procedures with the requirements of the 2015 version standard. Based on its results, a special matrix has been compiled that has become the starting point for update of the existing EMS algorithms to ensure their full compliance with the requirements of ISO 14001:2015.

Currently, mandatory EMS planning procedures are being developed and implemented: adjusting the registers of internal and external documentation in the field of environmental protection, amending information management procedures, development of procedures for identification and evaluation of environmental aspects, identification of risks and opportunities associated with these aspects.

After that, identification and assessment of risks will be carried out. Their results will be used to amend environmental protection goals and objectives of Donbasenergo's structural units. In addition, environmental goals for 2017, 2018-2020 are being set, programs for their implementation are being prepared. According to the schedule, this package of measures will be completed by May this year.

As early as in March, development and implementation of mandatory procedures ensuring functioning of the environmental management system are planned to be accomplished: internal and external communication procedures, adjustment of the internal procedure for competence and awareness determination for staff the work of which influences environmental indicators, adjustment of the internal EMS procedures for contractors, internal procedure ensuring readiness for and response to emergency situations as part of environmental management system.

In addition, this month, part of the activities on development and implementation of mandatory procedures for assessment of EMS efficiency will be accomplished. This part is related to preparations and work of internal auditors, carrying out of internal audits and drafting of reports.