Corporate environmental crime: second report of session 2004-05 report, together with formal minutes, oral and written evidence

House of Commons papers 136 2004-05

Corporate Author:

Great Britain Parliament House of Commons Environmental Audit Committee

Author:

Peter Ainsworth (chairman)

Publisher:

TSO (The Stationery Office)

The Committee's report examines the varied range of environmental crimes committed by businesses in relation to England and Wales, including fly-tipping, fly-posting and pollution incidents, which occur both through negligent behaviour as well as deliberate acts. Issues discussed include: the definition of corporate environmental crime and the scale of the problem; the environmental record of water companies and of small and medium-sized enterprises; resources; methods to ensure compliance, including the likelihood of detection and prosecution, and use of fines; civil penalties as an alternative means of compliance; education and publicity. Findings include that nine of the ten highest fines imposed by the Environment Agency in 2003 were given to waste and water companies, and concerns are raised about pollution from sewage overflow. Small and medium-sized enterprises commit the vast majority of environmental offences, and more has to be done to target these businesses as a matter of urgency. The proposal for a civil penalty regime may some way to addressing the matter, but it can only work if part of an effective compliance regime with a clear threat of detection, prosecution and sanction. The Committee concludes that whilst the perception remains that environmental compliance is still some way down the list of Government priorities, then businesses will continue to disregard the matter as a waste of time and resources.

Extent	35, Ev 75 p.	ISBN	9780215021892
Size	N/A	Price	£20.00
Binding	Paperback	Published	08 Feb 2005
Availability	Colour copy: 3 - 5 days	Delivery	Delivery options and charges

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