Less, but Not Zero Pollution? The Revision of the EU’s Industrial Emissions Directive

Abstract

Abstract The Industrial Emissions Directive (ied) governs the permitting of more than 50,000 large-scale industrial installations across the EU and their emissions into air, water and soil. Under the European Green Deal, the ied has been undergoing a revision process which was finalised in April 2024. This article gives an overview of some of the main changes to the law and the next steps for Member States, industry and individuals affected by industrial pollution. It looks in particular at the expansion of the ied’s scope to some new sectors, while continuing to keep industrial cattle rearing outside of the scope. It also considers how the amended permitting regime has the potential to prevent more pollution, if applied effectively by authorities. Lastly, the improved enforcement tools are discussed with an emphasis on the compensation right – the first of its kind in EU environmental law – requiring effective access to compensation for individuals affected by illegal industrial pollution.