Who is liable for environmental harm? An EU legal analysis

Types: Report
Published: 17 January 2025
Size: 1.54 MB

This report examines the environmental liability regimes established under European Union law, focusing on the Environmental Liability Directive (ELD) and other key legislation such as the Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD), the Ambient Air Quality Directive (AAQD), the Industrial Emissions Directive (IED), and the Environmental Crime Directive (ECD). It explores how liability is assigned to different actors, compensation rights for victims of environmental harm, and the mechanisms used to address or prevent environmental damage. Distinctions between administrative liability under the ELD and civil liability for personal injury or property damage are clarified, as are the roles of public authorities and NGOs in enforcement. The report aims to identify gaps and assess the effectiveness of the existing frameworks in ensuring accountability and environmental protection.