The Regulatory Reform (Scotland) Act 2014 came into force on 19 February 2014
19 February 2014
Environment protection - Scotland
The Regulatory Reform (Scotland) Act 2014 introduces a duty on the Scottish Environment Protection Agency and Scottish Natural Heritage, among others, to promote sustainable economic growth.
The Act enables regulations to be made to apply a "fit and proper person" test to decisions on pollution prevention and control permits.
Enforcement options for regulators are also extended.
- A new offence of "significant environmental harm" is created, covering harm to the quality of the environment, harm to the health of humans and other organisms, damage to property, offences to human senses and impairment or interference with amenities or other legitimate uses of the environment.
- Compensation orders may also be issued against those found guilty of environmental offences.
