Environmental Compliance during the Covid-19 Pandemic

Here at Envireau Water we acknowledge the challenges COVID-19 has created for ourselves and our clients, especially when considering meeting environmental permit conditions! Our technical expertise often works in parallel with legal work as a means of adhering to regulations, battling planning permission and obtaining a permit or a licence.

Just last week Burges Salmon, a long standing client, released a useful guidance note detailing the impact that COVID-19 has had on environmental compliance. The note can be viewed in full here.

However, we thought we would do the hard work and break down the key points that are relevant to our clients…

It is evident that regulators have issued statement after statement detailing how their staff are now working and how they will be adapting their focus during the UK’s time in lockdown. The Environment Agency, Natural Resources Wales and SEPA are all following similar methods of focussing on major incidents & flooding.

But what does that mean for legal compliance?

The government have not yet issued any relaxation to such legal obligations; however, they are expected to over the next few weeks. This means that at present you need to ensure you are not in breach of any conditions on your permits or licences. This may be particularly challenging where environmental management systems or environmental permits conditions require monitoring that clashes with COVID-19 restrictions.

So, what do we suggest?

Stay ahead and continue with what is legally required. The current situation is unprecedented and is a juggling act for many, but it is important to adapt to the changing circumstances and take a proactive approach.

If for any reason you are unable to undertake your compliance monitoring contact Envireau Water so that we can develop an appropriate course of action with you.

If you’re worried about your compliance our James Dodds would be happy to help you, contact him at James@envireauwater.co.uk.