How to guarantee compliance with the Environment Act
Regulations set out in the Environment Act 2021 cover the minimum expectations for corporate activity, including those on habitat conservation and air quality. When a business sets up in a physical location, it must take environmental factors into account.
As an entrepreneur, you must take various steps to ensure that your firm adheres to these regulations. From minimising harm to promoting a healthier future, it’s a critical responsibility.
What is the Environment Act?
The Environment Act is an integral and varied piece of legislation to replace previous environmental standards set by the EU. Providing a core framework for local, regional and national protection, the Act sets targets for water quality, biodiversity, clean air, and how you dispose of commercial waste.
Key elements for business owners to consider include:
- Compulsory environmental targets
- Regulations on biodiversity net gain (BNG)
- Local Nature Recovery Strategies (LNRS)
- The new Office for Environmental Protection (OEP).
With the implications and practical delivery of the bill, businesses must adapt and respond efficiently to meet requirements. However, the Act also enables responsible businesses to collaborate with authorities and proactively make beneficial changes to their practices.
How to keep environmentally compliant
- Know your obligations
As specified in the Act, different businesses have varying requirements to meet.
Knowing exactly what’s expected of your firm will enable a smooth transition and facilitate the process of identifying areas that require improvement. General concerns for businesses across all sectors include the use of raw materials, water, and energy use.
Agricultural or manufacturing firms might also need to tackle specific areas, including the use and disposal of hazardous waste and substances. Companies with vehicles need to consider their emissions and pollution levels.
- Speak to professionals
Once you’ve worked out where you need to reduce your environmental impact, consulting an expert could be a lifeline. If you’re struggling to prioritise effectively, consulting an environmental agency helps to streamline the process.
As part of a wider review of your corporate environmental impact, you may also wish to carry out a thorough risk assessment. When you do this with a professional eye, you benefit from full confidence that you’ve covered every nuance and haven’t missed anything covered by the regulations.
- Crack down on waste
Waste management is one of the most significant aspects of your responsibility, according to the Environment Act. Incorporating a proper waste management system is critical, and you can do this through every level of your business.
In the office, for example, try to separate recyclable waste from refuse. Using specific, easily identifiable containers is one way to encourage the team to do the same. The principles behind responsible waste management could potentially protect your business against costly lawsuits in the future.
Overview
Responding to the Act by making the necessary environmental changes can directly benefit your business. Along with improving your image, both in your industry and for the wider public, you can cut costs and promote a healthier future.
