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India boasts a robust framework of environmental laws and regulations overseen by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change. The Environment (Protection) Act (EPA) of 1986 serves as the cornerstone legislation, empowering the government to enact supplementary rules and notifications. Here's a glimpse into some key environmental legislations impacting businesses: - Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974: The Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974 is a key law in India protecting water resources. It aims to prevent water pollution, maintain water quality, and establish Pollution Control Boards to enforce regulations. Industries need consent to operate and can be penalized for non-compliance. A recent amendment bill proposes decriminalizing some violations. This Act is crucial for ensuring clean water in India.
- Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981: The Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981 (Air Act) is an Indian law battling air pollution. It establishes Pollution Control Boards to regulate industrial emissions and set air quality standards. The Act empowers these Boards to take action against polluters who can face penalties for non-compliance. While the Act has improved air quality, stricter enforcement is crucial to address India's ongoing air pollution challenges.
- Beyond Central Legislation: State-Specific Regulations
While central legislation provides a foundational framework, states in India possess the authority to enact more stringent environmental regulations. The State Pollution Control Boards (SPCBs) play a pivotal role in implementing these regulations and granting clearances. To ensure compliance, familiarization with both central and state-specific environmental regulations is essential for businesses. Tailored Compliance Requirements The specific environmental compliance requirements for your business will be influenced by a trifecta of factors: - Industry Sector: Different industries have inherently varying environmental impacts. Imagine a big filing cabinet with environmental rules for all sorts of businesses. Instead of searching through the whole cabinet, you can figure out which drawer holds the rules for your business type. That drawer is your industry sector.
Here's how to find your drawer: - Know your business type: Are you a factory, a restaurant, a farm? This is your industry.
- Find the industry rules: Each industry has specific rules it needs to follow. These rules are in that industry's drawer in the environmental rule cabinet.
- Focus on what matters: Once you know the rules, don't worry about everything at once. Start with the most important ones to avoid trouble.
- Stay informed: The rules can change sometimes, so keep an eye out for updates.
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