The Environment Agency has announced that it is set to launch an online regulatory system, which will include environmental permitting.
The Agency has sought to unify its regulatory activities into an online "one-stop shop" after investing in a new IT project. While it will continue to accept hard copies, firms will be able to submit applications for permits online. The online system will be rolled-out in an effort to streamline regulation and reduce the administrative burden on business. Dave Clarke of the Agency said it was anticipated that all permits would be covered by the system within the next 12-18 months.
Further, the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) has confirmed that water discharge consents, abstraction licences and groundwater authorisations are to be regulated under the environmental permitting regime, which came into force on 6 April 2008. Environmental permitting will now extend to more sectors including water consents and radioactive substances regulation. However, the Agency has not indicated when they will have to apply for permits.
Environmental permitting will also be used to implement the forthcoming batteries and mining waste Directives. It is anticipated that permits for quarries and mines will be introduced by May 2010.
