Pollution: European Commission calls on IRELAND to improve its rules on pollution arising from industrial activities

Industrial activities have a significant impact on the environment. The Directive lays down rules on activities that include the prevention or reduction of emissions into air, water and soil and the prevention of waste generation.

Full implementation of the Directive is key to effectively protect human health and safeguard the natural environment. The European Green Deal has set a Zero Pollution ambition for the EU, putting emphasis on cutting air pollution, which is among the key factors affecting human health.

Ireland has not transposed certain definitions of the Directive (e.g., “substance”, “pollution”, “operator”, “dioxins and furans”) into national legislation. Moreover, there is no mandatory mechanism ensuring the interaction between different authorities in the permitting process. Certain requirements in relation to the reconsideration and update of permit conditions have not been transposed either.

Therefore, the Commission is sending a letter of formal notice to Ireland, which has now two months to respond to the letter and address the shortcomings raised by the Commission. Otherwise, the Commission may decide to issue a reasoned opinion.