New Environmental Permitting Regulations
The Environmental Permitting Regulations came into force on 6th April 2008. These new regulations are expected to make existing legislation more efficient by combining Pollution Prevention and Control (PPC) and Waste Management Licensing (WML) regulations.
Existing Waste Management Licences automatically became Environmental Permits on 6th April. There is no need to reapply and permits will contain the same conditions as before.
Benefits of the new scheme for WML holders are:
Extending the area of land covered by the permit
Now easier to surrendering a permit
Part of a permit can now be surrendered or transferred
For PPC holders, the process for varying a permit will be simpler.
The Environment Agency has introduced 27 standard permits for medium to low-risk activities, which are cheaper to apply for and could be issued more quickly than specifically tailored permits. It is also anticipated that there will be an online application process for new permits.
Proposed ban on dichloromethane
The chemical dichloromethane, also known as methylene chloride or DCM, may be banned if a proposal adopted following recent studies is adopted. DCM vapour is toxic and is a common component of paint strippers, still openly available to the public.
Some readers may recall the use of carbon tetrachloride in cleaning agents; this substance, also toxic, was banned in 1996, although a major factor behind this decision was its ozone depleting quality.
Proposals include:
A ban on the use of DCM by the general public, who might be least aware of its dangers and least likely to take adequate precautions during its use;
A ban on the use of DCM by professionals, although it is anticipated that those who are able to take the necessary precautions may be permitted to work under licence.
How do you measure up?
Assess your environmental compliance with NetRegs and Business Link. This self-assessment tool will help you find out what you need to do to comply with environmental legislation.
After completing a questionnaire you will receive environmental guidance that is relevant to your business. Your answers will generate final report with guidance on the regulations that you must comply with and the permits, licences and exemptions that you may need. You will also be directed to detailed guidance on the NetRegs website:
