Unit 3:  Current Legislation Affecting UK Industry: Overview

3.4.1  The Environmental Information Regulations 1992

The protection and management of the environment is heavily reliant upon access to public information, and is something enforced by the EU. The Directive 90/313 is enforced in the UK by the Environmental Information Regulations 1992 (SI 1992 No.3240). The provisions of the Directive are that practical arrangements should be implemented that strive to make environmental information available by the relevant public bodies such as:

  • LA's
  • Waste disposal companies
  • DoE
  • Water services companies
Under the 1992 Regulations (SI 1992 No.3240) such information includes information on air quality, water, flora and fauna, natural areas and other areas of land. Should any information be refused, the reasons for this must be undertaken in writing- there are few exceptions, such as in areas of national security.

There does not seem to be any right of appeal against refusal in giving information, although the request procedure is on the basis of judicial review.