Environmental permits
Contents
Environmental permits
We inspect and regulate certain industrial processes to reduce pollution with a specific focus on improving air quality.
Regulations
Environmental regulations cover a diverse range of industrial processes - from dry cleaners and petrol stations to metal foundries. Some need a permit, but others only need a permit if they exceed certain specified thresholds (e.g. solvent consumption or capacity).
The Pollution Prevention and Control Act 1999 and Environmental Permitting (England and Wales) Regulations 2016 are both used to help control pollution.
The list of industrial activities is covered in Part 2 of Schedule 1 of the regulations. This list is split into 3 categories - Part A(1), Part A(2) and Part B.
Responsibilities
The Environment Agency regulates Part A(1) processes.
We are responsible for regulating Part A(2) for all emissions and Part B activities for emissions to air only.
Last updated 15 August 2023