David Hampson

We have today published our response to the consultation of Biodiversity Net Gain. In it we recognise Defra’s overall aim to improve the implementation of BNG but we note Defra should also approach such reforms with caution. Read more here👉bit.ly/41dwtYX

We have found possible failures to comply with environmental law by Defra, Natural England and DAERA in relation to our investigations into the protection of wild birds. Read more on Defra and Natural England here👉bit.ly/3ZWOKJr and DAERA here👉 bit.ly/4jH26kb

The OEP has today written to the Government with advice on how its proposed planning reforms can be strengthened to ensure they achieve ‘win win’ outcomes for development and nature – read our letter here 👉bit.ly/4k1eqfQ

"Progress is being made. But much more is needed." Our Chair Dame Glenys Stacey speaking at the NI Environment Forum earlier today. Her full speech can be read here 👉 rb.gy/ob23yo

'Urgent action must be taken to better protect and restore Northern Ireland’s most precious places for nature' - read our report on the implementation of laws for protected sites in NI here 👉rb.gy/zztw9s

We have launched an investigation into possible failures by Defra and the Environment Agency to comply with the Water Framework Directive (WFD) Regulations, one of the key laws in place to protect and improve water quality. See our statement here rb.gy/9o5a8i

Government has the chance to get on track to meet legal environmental commitments – but the window of opportunity is closing fast, we warn in our latest annual progress report. Read more about our report here bit.ly/4hj23Kw

Our latest blog explores the barriers and enablers faced by Responsible Authorities creating Local Nature Recovery Strategies. Read about some of the challenges faced by those producing these important local strategies for nature recovery 👉 bit.ly/3BvbPKy

We have found failures to comply with environmental law by Defra, the Environment Agency and Ofwat in relation to the regulation of combined sewer overflows (CSOs). We have sent decision notices setting out the actions to be taken. Read our statement here bit.ly/3ZGG6Oh

We are seeking permission to intervene in an appeal case that could clarify the operation of the Habitats Regulations at different stages of an application for planning permission - see here for more details bit.ly/3BAbZA4

We believe Defra may have failed to comply with a number of environmental laws when granting emergency authorisations for use of the Cruiser SB pesticide on sugar beet in 2023 and 2024. 1/2

Updating Bathing Water Regulations would better protect the swimmers and users of Northern Ireland's lake and rivers, our report published today concluded. Read more 👉 bit.ly/3OjgBgV

We have launched an investigation into the government’s Statutory Guidance on applying the Farming Rules for Water - the regulations that aim to reduce and prevent water pollution from agriculture. Read more here 👉bit.ly/3Og5gOs

The regulations in place to protect people swimming in rivers, lakes and coastal waters in England could be more effective if updated, our latest report concludes 👉bit.ly/3VeKkvt

Current pressures on nature in Northern Ireland are unsustainable and urgent action is needed to protect and improve the environment for this and future generations – read our report on the drivers and pressures affecting biodiversity here 👉bit.ly/3Npq8lV

In March 2023 we found Govt had not been reviewing environmental laws as well as it should – see our report👉 rb.gy/45ddxt The Regulatory Policy Committee has now published a blog commenting on recent progress 👉 rb.gy/3epgnt

We take an ‘issues-based’ approach – we gather information from various sources and then decide how best to act to protect and improve the environment. How can we do this most effectively? Have your say on our revised strategy and enforcement policy: bit.ly/4bNlb0a

We have launched an investigation into Defra’s emergency authorisation of a neonicotinoid pesticide in 2023 and 2024. More information available here: bit.ly/45SXEtt

Today we announced that we are investigating DAERA over the failure to publish Northern Ireland’s first Environmental Improvement Plan (EIP). As part of the investigation, we have issued an Information Notice. Read more here: bit.ly/3XVp2VQ

‘Deeply concerning’ – regulations to protect water bodies in England are not being implemented effectively. Read the OEP report here: bit.ly/3UT7Tds