Environment calendar – July 2006

The environment calendar highlights key dates for proposed and existing legislation and policy and closing dates for consultation papers relating to major environment issues in the EU and England.

It provides a useful tool for environment managers tracking new legislation for the purpose of implementing an environment management system such as ISO 14001 or EMUS.

It is also helpful for those in environment technologies industries seeking new opportunities by highlighting upcoming legislation.

Key developments this month include:

• Restriction of the Use of Certain Hazardous Substances in Electrical and Electronic Equipment Regulations 2006 (RoHS) came into force on 1 July 2006. These regulations prohibit the use of lead, mercury, cadmium, hexavalent chromium and certain types of brominated flame retardant in new electrical and electronic equipment. All relevant products placed on the market after 1 July 2006 will need to be compliant and failure to comply will be a criminal offence. The main responsibility for compliance lies with producers of the equipment (manufacturers, importers and own-labellers).
• EC Consultation on Biofuels Directive 2003/30/EC closes on 10 July 2006. The Biofuels Directive promotes the use in transport of fuels made from biomass, as well as other renewable fuels. The Commission is inviting responses in relation to appropriate targets for biofuel use, as well as the possibility of introducing a certification system to distinguish between poor-performing and better-performing biofuels.
• DEFRA consultation on proposed amendments to the Pollution Prevention and Control (England and Wales) Regulations 2000 closes on 14 July 2006. DEFRA is seeking responses regarding Petrol Vapour Recovery Controls and burning of landfill gases containing halogens. The amendment regulations will also increase penalties for offences under PPC Regulations, in line with the Clean Neighbourhoods and Environment Act 2005.