Everyone with an interest in Scotland’s environment is being invited to have their say on the Scottish Environment Protection Agency’s (SEPA) sector plans for Scotch Whisky, metals and landfill.
SEPA’s sector plans aims be at the heart of everything SEPA does and will aim to shape interactions with sectors and businesses.
“In every sector we regulate, we will have two simple aims,” it says. “We will ensure that every regulated business fully meets their compliance obligations and help as many regulated businesses as possible to go beyond the compliance standards.”
It says successful businesses in the future will be those that use low amounts of water, materials and carbon-based energy and create little waste. Prosperous societies will be comprised of these businesses.
“Sector planning will drive our regulatory approach so we want and need the widest possible range of input and review to make sure this new approach is as effective as possible.”
“This can be Scotland with sector plans driving this ambition forward with a plan being developed for every sector we regulate by the end of March 2021,” SEPA says.
It’s now calling for views on its draft plans. Consultees have until 7 May 2018 to respond to the consultation, which is available to view on its Consultation Hub.
SEPA says the sector plans bring a “clear and co-ordinated” approach to regulation, focusing on delivery and using staff more powerfully to engage.
Speaking at an event for all SEPA managers in Perth, Terry A’Hearn SEPA’s chief executive, said: “SEPA is transforming its regulatory approach in order to create a world-class environment protection agency fit for the challenges of tomorrow.
“Every day SEPA works to protect and enhance the environment. Environmental compliance is non-negotiable and our sector plans will work to ensure that every Scottish business is compliant with environmental law.
“We’ll also work with as many as possible to go even further as the successful businesses of tomorrow will be those who embrace the economic opportunity of sustainable solutions to environmental challenges. This will help businesses to think about creating commercial success from environmental excellence.
“Sector planning will drive our regulatory approach so we want and need the widest possible range of input and review to make sure this new approach is as effective as possible. Communities across Scotland are integral to this. If you have an interest in the environment please read the consultation documents and tell us what you think”.