Environmental law

Overview of legislation, policy and funding programmes for the protection of the environment.

You have the right to access certain information about the environment and pollutants that may affect it. Find out how to access environmental information.

The Aarhus Convention sets out rules to promote public participation in environmental matters. Read about the Convention and related agreements.

The rules as regards the control of noise, the various bodies responsible and how to complain about excessive noise

There is a range of Irish and EU legislation dealing with the disposal of different types of waste. Find out more.

What is litter pollution and what are the penalties?

Public decisions may be judicially reviewed by the High Court to determine whether they are illegal. Find out about judicial review in the environmental and planning areas.

Asbestos can release dangerous dust if it is disturbed. It should only be dealt with by specialists, using protective equipment and strict safeguards.

Describes EU and Irish law regarding licensing procedures and enforcement of pollution prevention and control measures.

Human activity is causing the Earth's climate to change. This document explains the impacts of climate change and the steps being taken to address it.

A range of Irish and EU legislation aims to ensure biodiversity by conserving natural habitats and wild fauna and flora.

EU environmental protection includes regulation on the use of Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs). There is a broad legal framework to ensure that GMOs and GMO-derived products that are grown, marketed and imported to the EU meet certain safety standards