Every activity that humans undertake has the potential to further degrade the environment and reduce the finite volume of natural resources on the earth. The concept of Environmental Management, though very complex and multifaceted, seeks to make every effort to reduce or eliminate the negative impacts of humans on the environment and enhance those that are positive. Environmental Management for businesses is an awareness of how the creation of products and services impact the environment and how internal policies, programs and activities will eliminate or mitigate those impacts.

At the IID, Environmental Management is directed by the Board of Directors through establishment of an Environmental Policy that establishes the tenants of stewardship that guide the District's activities. All departments are responsible to conduct their business consistent with the Policy, but the core oversight and implementation of environmental management is coordinated by the Environmental, Regulatory and Emergency Planning Section (EREP).