Many meat processing facilities have found a way to remain competitive in this tight-fisted and uncertain era through the use of the Environmental Management Systems (EMSs). Companies such as Advance Brands, Excel Corporation, Farmland Foods, Humbolt Sausage, Smithfield Foods and West Liberty Foods are already taking advantage of EMSs to improve their businesses' effectiveness. Meat processing facilities have already realized the following benefits by implementing an EMS: Reduced operating costs; Improved environmental compliance; Improved internal communication; A bolstered coporate image; and enhanced environmental decision-making.