Environmental Health
Business and the Environment is a two way relationship. The
environment effects our air, land and water and in turn the
biodiversity of our environment effects both individuals
and businesses. Managing resources in an effiecient and
responsible way not only ensures that our environment thrives
but it also means that businesses are making the
most economical use of available resources thus helping
profits to increase!
Last year the Environment Agency prosecuted 700 businesses and
dished out fines amounting to over £2.5 million for failure to
comply with legislation. It is the responsibility of every business
irrespective of size, to ensure that legislative requirements are
met. The penalties for not adhering to legilative requirements can
be substantial.
- A firm was fined £14,000, with costs of £1,888, failure to
register under the Producer Responsibility
Obligations (Packaging Waste) Regulations.
- A Building Company was order by the
Court to spend £50,000 to prevent further incidents of sand washing
into surface water drains and had to pay £2,705 costs.
- The Environment Agency has powers to sieze and impound vehicles
involved in fly-tipping and the maximum fine due is £50,000.
Cheshire County Council also offers guidance to firms. The Eco
Audit 21 programme is undertaken by the Environmental Management
team of Cheshire County Council and offers FREE and CONFIDENTIAL
environmental reviews to all small and medium sized businesses in
Cheshire. They offer advice on a variety of topics including; waste
management, energy & water consumption, purchasing and
transport issues. More information can be obtained from:
The Eco Audit Co-ordinator
01244 603125
Information is available on all current and future
legislation by clicking
here. You can also access legislation specific to your
sector by clicking
here.
This information is provided through the Environment Agency,
management guidlines are also provided along with a list of useful
national and international information and resources.
Other Useful contact include:
Chartered Institute of Environmental
Health
Provide Knowledge and understanding of Environmental Health
Issues
Drinking Water Inspectorate
Responsible for monitoring and assesing the drinking water in the
United Kingdom
http://www.dwi.gov.uk/
Food Standards Agency
Very comprehensive site with information ranging from legistaltion
to basic health and safety advice.
http://www.food.gov.uk/
Groud Work
Environmental Regeneration Charity with the aim of involving
different local bodies in promotion of sustainable
communities.
http://www.groundwork.org.uk/