Legislation index

Comprehensive index of UK environmental laws for Oil & Gas

Main UK LegislationAtmospherics LegislationBiodiversity and Conservation LegislationChemicals LegislationCOMAH and Hazardous Substances LegislationEIA and Public Participation LegislationEMS LegislationEnvironmental Liability LegislationGroundwater and Control Water LegislationNavigation and Decommissioning LegislationPollution Prevention and Discharge LegislationRadioactive Substances LegislationWaste Legislation

Energy Act 2023The Energy Act 2023 improves the resilience and reliability of the energy systems across the UK, to facilitate the delivery of net zero commitments and to increase energy security at a minimum cost to the consumer. In relation to oil and gas activities, this act makes several amendments and provisions, including those relation to environmental protection. These include provisions to enable the Secretary of State to make regulations for oil pollution emergency planning, response and inspection (e.g. delegation of functions, offences, new or amended definitions) and provisions to enable the Secretary of State to make regulations related to habitats regulations assessments, considering the effects on ‘relevant sites’ from oil and gas activities, where a ‘relevant site’ will relate to natural habitats or habitats of species and will be defined in accordance with any proposed regulations. The regulations also include provisions that a licence may not be granted unless the Secretary of State has or Scottish Ministers have carried out an assessment and confirmed that the outcome of said assessment should not prevent a licence from being granted.

The Energy Act 2023 (Commencement No. 1) Regulations 2024 brought Sections 296 to 299 (subsections 1 and 2) of the Energy Act 2023 into force on 11th January 2024 allowing for the creation of secondary regulations relating to pollution from oil and gas activities and to establish a charging scheme for the Secretary of State’s functions under Part 4 of the Petroleum Act 1998, in relation to the decommissioning of offshore installations. Additionally, these commencement regulations bring Section 300, 301 and Schedule 21 into force which introduce requirements for consent to be granted by the NSTA where a change in control of the licence holder is being sought.
Climate Change Act (Northern Ireland) Act 2022The Northern Ireland Climate Change Act came into force in June 2022 and sets out targets for net-zero emissions by 2050 and intermediate targets for 2030 and 2040. A system of carbon budgeting and reporting is also established through this act.

The Climate Change Committee issued a report in March 2023 to provide advice to Northern Ireland on how to achieve the 2030 and 2040 interim targets and the first thee Carbon budgets, as set out in the Climate Change Act (Northern Ireland) Act 2022. Subsequent to this, the Department for Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) published a consultation document seeking views on the proposed interim targets and the first three carbon budgets.
Energy Act 2008The Energy Act of 2008 is instrumental in bearing down the legislative provisions for energy producers and providers in the UK.
Energy Act 2011The Energy Act 2011 contains provisions to improve energy efficiency within the UK. This includes provisions on the security of energy supplies such as the necessary applications to use or modify upstream petroleum infrastructure to increase their capacity, and the measures to be taken within the energy industry to reduce carbon emissions, such as applications for re-use of infrastructure.
Energy Act 2016The Energy Act 2016 formally establishes the North Sea Transition Authority (NTSA) as an independent regulator, detailing its functions relating to oil and gas licensing, production and exploration.
Environment Act 2021The Environment Act 2021 sets out new environmental targets, plans and policies to be included in future regulations in the UK. This paves the way for a new suite of environmental legislation to help improve the natural environment. The Act aims to create a world-leading system for environmental governance, through a new public body based in Bristol - the Office for Environmental Protection - which will be an independent watchdog with the powers to hold Government and other public bodies to account in relation to fulfilling their obligations on the environment.

The Act establishes a framework for environmental governance in addition to long-term environmental targets, some of which are applicable to only England, Northern Ireland, Scotland or Wales. Under the Act, the Secretary of State must create a environmental improvement plan for England and Wales


The following pieces of legislation establish legally binding targets under the Environment Act 2021:

The Environmental Improvement Plan 2023 sets out how the targets under the Environment Act 2021 will be reached. It is the first revision of the first Environmental Improvement Plan (the 25 Year Environment Plan), published 2018. The 25 Year Environment Plan is subject to review every 5 years.
 Environmental (Wales) Act 2016Environmental (Wales) Act 2016 includes responsibilities on various topics including the management of Welsh natural resources, climate change, collection and disposal of waste, target for emissions reductions, and marine licensing.
The Environmental Permitting (England and Wales) Regulations 2016The Environmental Permitting (England and Wales) Regulations 2016 outline the English and Welsh environmental permits that are required for industrial and waste activities, including water discharge consents, groundwater authorisations and radioactive substances and waste batteries which could harm human health or the environment.
Islands (Scotland) Act 2018 asp 12 This Act outlines the plans to improve and promote sustainable development in the Scottish Islands. This includes provisions for the development of the Scottish Island Marine area, such as the requirement for certain developments to obtain Scottish Island Marine area licences.
Marine and Coastal Access Act 2009The Marine and Coastal Access Act of 2009 is primary legislation for marine licensing in UK inshore and offshore areas (0-200 nautical miles) and Scottish offshore waters (>12 nautical miles). Operators will need to apply for a marine licence to undertake certain licensable marine activities as per section 66. The Act also makes provision for the designation of Marine Conservation Zones (MCZs) in the territorial waters adjacent to England and Wales and UK offshore waters.
Petroleum Act 1998Petroleum Act 1998 governs oil and gas exploration, production, offshore installations, submarine pipelines, and decommissioning in three UK, and include applications to the Secretary of State for petroleum production licences in respect of seaward areas and for petroleum exploration licences in respect of seaward areas and landward areas below the low water line. The provisions include requirement for the owners of relevant offshore installation to work towards the objective to maximise the economic recovery of UK petroleum. The Oil and Gas Authority is required to produce strategies to enable this objective to be met.
Radioactive Substances Act 1993The Radioactive Substances Act 1993 set out measures to regulate the use and disposal of radioactive substances including registration, authorisation, enforcement and offences. The Act was repealed in England and Wales and replaced by the Environmental Permitting (England and Wales) Regulations the Environmental Permitting (England and Wales) Regulations 2010.
The Act now primarily applies to Northern Ireland and Scottish offshore waters.
Scottish Crown Estate Act 2019This Act of the Scottish Parliament renames Crown Estate Scotland (Interim Management) as the 'Crown Estate Scotland'; to make provision about the management of the Scottish Crown Estate; and for connected purposes. It also makes related minor consequential amendments to related instruments.
The Carriage of Dangerous Goods and Use of Transportable Pressure Equipment Regulations 2009 as amendedThe Carriage of Dangerous Goods and Use of Transportable Pressure Equipment Regulations 2009 (as amended) apply the ADR UN agreement in Great Britain, applying to England, Wales and Scotland only. The 2009 Regulations came in to force on the 1 July 2009, with an amendment to the Regulation taking place in 2011, which came in to force on the 24 October 2011.
The Controlled Waste (England and Wales) Regulations 2012 (as amended)These regulations define "Controlled Waste" for the purposes of the Environmental Protection Act 1990. Three categories of controlled waste are defined, i.e. household, industrial and commercial. All Special Waste/Hazardous Waste is Controlled Waste (see Waste Classification). The main exemptions to Controlled Waste are explosive and radioactive wastes. These Regulations entered into force on 6 April 2012.
The Energy Saving Opportunity Scheme Regulations 2014The Energy Saving Opportunity Scheme (ESOS) is an energy assessment and energy saving scheme established by the Energy Saving Opportunity Scheme Regulations 2014. The scheme applies to large undertakings and groups containing large undertakings in the UK. The 2014 Regulations implement the EU Energy Efficiency Directive (2012/27/EU). Organisations that qualify must carry out ESOS assessments every four years. These assessments are made up of audits which will identify cost-effective energy saving measures.
The Environmental Authorisations (Scotland) Regulations 2018The Environmental Authorisations (Scotland) Regulations 2018 establish an authorisation framework that integrates authorisation, procedural and enforcement processes relating to radioactive substances. This legislation applies to Scotland, including the inshore and offshore waters.
The Greenhouse Gas Emissions Trading Scheme Regulations 2012 as amendedThe Greenhouse Gas Emissions Trading Scheme Regulations 2012 transpose and implement the EU Directive 2003/87/EC, establishing a scheme for greenhouse gas emission allowance trading within the UK, and in particular the amendments made to it by Directive 2009/29/EC, which improve and extend the scheme (EUETS Phase III). The regulations aim to improve and extend the EU ETS with the introduction of a centralised, EU-wide cap on emissions, new sectors and gases and harmonised rules on free allocation with a move toward the greater auctioning of allowances. Regulations 17 to 19 apply specifically to offshore installations.
Marine Licensing (Exempted Activities) Order 2011
 Marine Licensing (Exempted Activities) Order 2011 list of activities which are exempt from a Marine Licence under the Marine and Coastal Access Act 2009 in the England.
The Marine Licensing (Exempted Activities) (Wales) Order 2011
The Marine Licensing (Exempted Activities) (Wales) Order 2011 list of activities which are exempt from a Marine Licence under the Marine and Coastal Access Act 2009 in the Wales
The Merchant Shipping Act 1995The Merchant Shipping Act 1995 implements in the UK the OPRC Convention. The aim of the OPRC Convention is to increase the level of effective response to oil pollution incidents and to promote international co-operation to this end. The Convention applies to ships and offshore installations and requires operators to have in place Oil Pollution Emergency Plans (OPEP), which are approved by the body that is the National Competent Authority for the Convention. The Merchant Shipping (Oil Pollution Preparedness, Response and Co-operation Convention) Regulations 1998 introduce into UK law the oil spill planning requirements and legal oil spill reporting requirements of the OPRC Convention.
The Merchant Shipping (Oil Pollution Preparedness, Response and Co-operation Convention) Regulations 1998 as amendedThe Convention applies to ships and offshore installations and requires operators to have in place Oil Pollution Emergency Plans (OPEP), which are approved by the body that is the National Competent Authority for the Convention. The Merchant Shipping (Oil Pollution Preparedness, Response and Co-operation Convention) Regulations 1998 introduced into UK law the oil spill planning requirements and legal oil spill reporting requirements of the OPRC Convention.
The Merchant Shipping (Prevention of Oil Pollution) Regulations 2019 The Merchant Shipping (Prevention of Oil Pollution) Regulations 2019 implement Annex I (Regulations for the Prevention of Pollution by Oil) of the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships, 1973, as modified by the Protocol of 1978 (the MARPOL Convention). Annex I applies to all oil tankers of 150 gross register tonnage (GRT) and above and all vessels of 400 GRT and above. There is a prohibition of oily discharges inside the 3 nautical mile limit. Oil or oily mixtures associated with drainage must not exceed 15 ppm. New vessels greater than 400 GRT must have an oil/water separator. A Shipboard Oil Pollution Emergency Plan (SOPEP) must be maintained and updated. An International Oil Pollution Prevention Certificate (IOPP) must be obtained and renewed on a 5 yearly basis.
The Merchant Shipping (Pollution) Act 2006The Merchant Shipping (Pollution) Act 2006 enables the Government to implement Annex VI of the MARPOL 73/78 Convention and amends the Merchant Shipping Act 1995 to enable implementation of Annex VI using the same powers used to implement other MARPOL 73/78 Annexes.
The Offshore Chemicals Regulations 2002Offshore operations involving the use and/or discharge of 'defined' chemicals must be the subject of a chemical permit under The Offshore Chemicals Regulations 2002. They implement the OSPAR Decision 2000/2.
The Offshore Chemicals and Offshore Petroleum Activities (Oil Pollution Prevention and Control) (Coronavirus) (Amendment) Regulations 2020These regulations remove the requirement for offshore oil and gas operators to make relevant documents available for public inspection at a specified address in the UK, if it is not reasonably practical to allow the public to inspect these documents, due to the COVID – 19 pandemic.
The Offshore Environmental Civil Sanctions Regulations 2018These Regulations give the Secretary of State the power to impose civil sanctions under (and therefore implement) the following legislation:

  • The Merchant Shipping (Oil Pollution Preparedness, Response and Co-operation Convention) Regulations 1998;

  • The Offshore Chemicals Regulations 2002;

  • The Offshore Installations (Emergency Pollution Control) Regulations 2001;

  • The Offshore Petroleum Activities (Oil Pollution Prevention and Control) Regulations 2005;

  • The Offshore Combustion Installations (Pollution Prevention and Control) Regulations 2013.
The Offshore Marine Conservation (Natural Habitats &c.) Regulations 2007These Regulations, which came into force on 21 August 2007, make provision for implementing the Birds Directive and Habitats Directive in relation to marine areas where the United Kingdom has jurisdiction beyond its territorial sea. The Regulations make provision for the selection, registration and notification of sites in the offshore marine area (European Offshore Marine Sites) and for the management of these sites. Competent authorities are required to ensure that steps are taken to avoid the disturbance of species and deterioration of habitat in respect of the offshore marine sites and that any significant effects are considered before authorisation of certain plans or projects. Provisions are also in place for issuing of licences for certain activities and for undertaking monitoring and surveillance of offshore marine sites. Subsequent amendments were made to these Regulations in 2010 and 2012, the latter coming into force on 16 August 2012.
The Offshore Combustion Installations (Pollution Prevention and Control) Regulations 2013 as amendedThe Offshore Pollution Prevention and Control (PPC) Regulations 2013 transpose the relevant provisions of the Industrial Emissions Directive 2010/75/EU in respect to specific atmospheric pollutants from combustion installations with a thermal capacity rating in excess of 50 MW on offshore platforms undertaking oil and gas production and gas and CO2 unloading and storage.
The Offshore Installations (Safety Zones) Order 2018
The Offshore Installations (Safety Zones) Order 2018 establishes safety zones having a radius of 500 metres from the specified point around the 38 subsea installations.
The Offshore Installations (Offshore Safety Directive) (Safety Case etc.) Regulations 2015The Offshore Installation (Offshore Safety Directive) (Safety Case etc.) Regulations 2015 came into force on the 19 July 2015 replacing the 2005 Safety Case Regulations. The 2015 Regulations will implement the EC Directive on safety of offshore oil and gas operations 2013/30/EU. The EU has put Directive in place a set of rules to help prevent accidents, as well as respond promptly and efficiency should one occur. The 2015 Regulations provide for the preparation of safety cases for offshore installations and the notification of specified activities to the competent authority.
The Offshore Petroleum Activities (Conservation Habitats) Regulations 2001
The Offshore Petroleum Activities (Conservation Habitats) Regulations 2001 apply the Habitats Directive and the Wild Birds Directive in relation to oil and gas plans and projects wholly or partially on the UK continental shelf and adjacent waters outside territorial waters. Any plan or project which that would be likely to have a significant effect on a designated site must be subject to Habitats Regulations Assessment of its implications for the site’s conservation objectives. This includes obtaining consent for carrying out geological surveys in the UK Continental Shelf, this includes prior consent before testing the equipment required to undertake these surveys in relations to oil and gas activities.
The Offshore Petroleum Activities (Oil Pollution Prevention and Control) Regulations 2005 as amendedThe Offshore Petroleum Activities (Oil Pollution Prevention and Control) Regulations 2005 introduced a permitting system for oil discharges and replace the requirement for an exemption under POPA. These Regulations do not require a permit for discharge of OBM/OPF and SBMs as these are permitted under the Offshore Chemical Regulations 2002. However any material being discharged or reinjected that has been contaminated by hydrocarbons from the reservoir will require a permit.
The Offshore Petroleum Licensing (Offshore Safety Directive) Regulations 2015The Offshore Petroleum Licensing (Offshore Safety Directive) Regulations 2015 implement Directive 2013/30/EU on safety of offshore oil and gas operations, and make provisions regarding offshore licences. The Regulations implement the Offshore Safety Directives requirements relating to licensing and certain environmental matters relating to emergency response, and are produced by the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero.
The Offshore Oil and Gas Exploration, Production, Unloading and Storage (Environmental Impact Assessment) Regulations 2020The Offshore Oil and Gas Exploration, Production, Unloading and Storage (Environmental Impact Assessment) Regulations 2020 replaces the Offshore Petroleum Production and Pipelines (Assessment of Environmental Effects) Regulations 1999. These introduce new elements to be included in Environmental Statements including:

  • More focus on description of project alternatives and strategies to minimise atmospheric emissions;

  • Assessment of impacts resulting from the vulnerability of the project to risks of major accidents or disasters, including those caused by climate change;

  • Consideration of the Government’s Net Zero strategy


Introducing an optional near-final draft Environmental Statement to OPRED.
The Oil and Gas Authority (Offshore Petroleum) (Retention of Information and Samples) Regulations 2018They set out requirements for the retention of petroleum-related information and samples (as defined in the Energy Act 2016) by certain relevant persons, also defined in the Energy Act 2016.
The Ozone-Depleting Substances Regulations 2015The Ozone-Depleting Substances Regulations 2015 provide for the enforcement of EC Regulation 1005/2009 on control of substances that delete the ozone layer.
The Petroleum Licensing (Applications) Regulations 2015These Regulations apply to England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland and set out the requirements for licence applications for: 1. Landward petroleum exploration; 2. Seaward petroleum exploration; 3. Methane drainage; 4. Petroleum exploration and development; and 5. Seaward area production. The primary legislation to the 2015 Regulation is the Petroleum Act 1998.
The Pollution Prevention and Control (Scotland) Regulations 2012The Pollution Prevention and Control (PPC) (Scotland) Regulations 2012 set out a Scottish system to control pollution from any installation or mobile plant carrying out specified activities through permits, inspections and control of emissions. The regulation covers the inclusion of best available techniques (BAT). The PPC regulations cover onshore air emission activities in Scotland, as well as mercury and solvent waste and plant operations.
The REACH Enforcement Regulations 2008 as amendedThe REACH Enforcement Regulations 2008 provide the regulatory framework for Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH) in the UK. The UK REACH Regulations apply to all offshore installations but not ships.
The Oil and Gas Authority (Carbon Storage and Offshore Petroleum) (Specified Periods for Disclosure of Protected Material) Regulations 2025The Oil and Gas Authority (Carbon Storage and Offshore Petroleum) (Specified Periods for Disclosure of Protected Material) Regulations 2025 came into force on 9th January 2026 and specify the regulatory windows following data collection during which the Oil and Gas Authority (OGA) or subsequent holders can disclose protected material, including information and samples, related to carbon capture and storage (CCS) and offshore petroleum activities.

These regulations establish different disclosure timelines based on the sensitivity and nature of the material—some information can be published immediately, while detailed technical data, well information, injection/production records, and physical samples are subject to defined confidentiality periods, often contingent on reporting deadlines, system closures, or licence determination events.
The Carbon Capture Utilisation and Storage and Offshore Hydrogen Production (Miscellaneous Amendments) Regulations 2026From January 2026 UKCS Well Applications and Consents Guidance that will introduce amendments across six major pieces of UK health and safety legislation governing offshore installations and pipelines, primarily to formally incorporate activities related to Carbon Capture, Utilisation and Storage (CCUS) and offshore hydrogen production into existing safety, management, regulatory, and reporting frameworks, ensuring these nascent energy sectors are regulated under consistent safety standards previously applied to the offshore oil and gas industry
Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction Act 2026Coming into effect in February 2026, the Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction Act 2026, along with subsequent secondary legislation, enables the United Kingdom (UK) to implement the Agreement under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea on the Conservation and Sustainable Use of Marine Biological Diversity of Areas Beyond National Jurisdiction (the BBNJ Agreement).
Under the overall objective of the conservation and sustainable use of marine biological diversity of BBNJ areas, this Act makes addresses four main issues that impact developers operating in such areas:

Marine genetic resources, including the fair and equitable sharing of benefits;
Measures such as area-based management tools, including marine protected areas;
Environmental impact assessments and amendments to Marine (Scotland) Act 2010 and Marine and Coastal Access Act 2009; and
Capacity-building and the transfer of marine technology.



International

Ramsar Convention on Wetlands of International Importance Especially as Waterfowl Habitat (Ramsar Convention)Ramsar Convention is a global environmental treaty focused specifically on the conservation and sustainable use of wetlands. It requires the Contracting Parties to designate wetlands of international importance as Ramsar Sites. Any proposed development likely to affect a Ramsar Site must undergo rigorous assessment to ensure they are not adversely affected by the proposal. Ramsar sites in the UK are linked to the European site network - either as a Special Protection Area (SPA) or Special Area of Conservation (SAC). All are underpinned by Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs). The UK is a Contracting Party to the Ramsar Convention.
Convention Concerning the Protection of the World Cultural and Natural Heritage 1972 ("World Heritage Convention")
Convention on the Protection of the Underwater Cultural Heritage 2001		The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation's (UNESCO) 1972 World Heritage Convention identifies, protects, and preserves cultural and natural heritage around the world considered to be of outstanding universal value to humanity. It requires Contracting Parties to identify, protect, conserve, and transmit heritage to future generations.

The UNESCO Convention on the Protection of the Underwater Cultural Heritage protects all traces of human existence having a cultural, historical, or archaeological character that have been partially or totally underwater for at least 100 years, including wrecks. The Rules of the Convention prioritize in situ preservation unless recovery is necessary for protection, and prohibits the sale or trade of underwater cultural heritage.

The World Heritage Convention has been ratified by the UK but the Convention on the Protection of the Underwater Cultural Heritage has not. The UK however considers the rules of the 2001 Conventions as best practice for management of underwater cultural heritage.

EU

For updated legislation following Brexit, please refer to the pdf document downloadable from the Environmental Legislation Page.

UK

Climate Change Act 2008 Climate Change Act 2008 sets up a framework for the UK to achieve its long-term goals of reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 2050 and to ensure steps are taken towards adapting to the impact of climate change. In accordance with this act, the carbon budget for the periods between 2008 and 2037 have been set by the following:

The Climate Change Act 2008 requires reporting of targeted greenhouse gas emissions which are included in the carbon budget. These targeted greenhouse gas emissions include carbon dioxide, methane, nitrous oxide, hydrofluorocarbons, perfluorocarbons, and sulphur hexafluoride.Climate Change (Targeted Greenhouse Gases) Order 2023 adds Nitrogen trifluoride (NF3) to this list of targeted greenhouse gases.
Climate Change (Scotland) Act 2009This act outlines greenhouse gas (GHG) emission reduction targets for Scotland. These targets include 42% reduction in GHGs by 2020, and 80% reduction by 2050. This act also includes provisions for Scottish ministers to set annual GHG emission reduction targets, report on the progress towards these targets, and the strategies to be employed to help achieve GHG reduction targets.

The greenhouse gas emissions targets were amended by the Climate Change (Emissions Reduction Targets) (Scotland) Act 2019. This act sets a new target for Scotland to reach new-zero emissions by 2045. Interim targets now include reaching greenhouse gas emissions which are 56%, 75% and 90% lower than the 1990 baseline in 2020, 2030 and 2040, respectively. These regulations came into force through this regulation itself and through the Climate Change (Emissions Reduction Targets) (Scotland) Act 2019 (Commencement) Regulations 2020. This brought the entire legislation into force on 23 March 2020.The interim 2020 target was lowered from 56% to 48.5% in 2023 by the Climate Change (Scotland) Act 2009 (Interim Target) Amendment Regulations 2023. The 2030 interim target of 75% remains.

The Climate Change (Emissions Reduction Targets) (Scotland) Act 2024 amends the Climate Change (Scotland) Act 2009 and provides a more reliable framework for emissions reductions in Scotland, to account for recommendations from the independent Climate Change Committee (CCC). The previous annual emissions targets are vulnerable to year-to-year fluctuations caused by events such as a particularly cold winter or a global pandemic. This Act will replace the interim and annual targets with the Scottish carbon budget targets, which will cover total tonnes of emissions for a given period set by secondary legislation based on the expert advice from the CCC.This Act also changes the current deadline to finalise the next Climate Change Plan for Scotland so the Plan can align with the process for setting the new carbon budgets.
Environment Act (1995)The Environment Act (1995), published in July 1995, set the framework for the National Air Quality Strategy first published in 1997 and most recently updated in 2007.
The Air Quality Standards Regulations 2010

The National Air Quality Strategy is implemented in the UK through the following Regulations:

The Air Quality Standards Regulations 2010

The Air Quality Regulations (Scotland) Regulations 2010

The Air Quality Regulations (Wales) Regulations 2010

The Air Quality Standards Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2010

These regulations prescribe air quality objectives for a range of common air pollutants and set out the requirements for Local Authorities to follow in order to achieve these objectives.
The Carbon Accounting Regulations 2009These Regulations came into force on 31 May 2009 and apply to England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. They introduced the carbon accounting system that will be used to monitor compliance with the targets for reducing greenhouse gas emissions introduced by Part 1 of the Climate Change Act 2008. These regulations were amended by the Carbon Accounting (Provision for 2018) Regulations 2020 which came into force on 28 February 2020. This amendment includes implementing a provision to account for credits and debits to the new UK carbon account.

These regulations were further amended by the Carbon Accounting (Provision for 2019) Regulations 2021 which came into force in March 2021. They place a duty on the Secretary of State to register the carbon units credited and debited from the net UK carbon account and also update the Carbon Accounting (Provision for 2018) Regulations 2020 to account for credits and debits to the UK carbon account for the operation of EU ETS and domestic aviation for the second year (2019) for the third carbon budget period (2018 -2022). It also requires that the Secretary of State cancel any purchased carbon units by the end of the third budgetary period in respect of 2019.

A further amendment was also made in 2022 by The Carbon Accounting (Provision for 2020) Regulations 2022 which updates the carbon accounting system requirements for 2020, (the third year of the carbon budget period between 2018 – 2022) used to monitor compliance with targets for reducing greenhouse gas emissions introduced by the Climate Change Act 2008.  
The Carbon Accounting Scheme (Scotland) Regulations 2010The Carbon Accounting Scheme (Scotland) Regulations 2010 set up a scheme for carbon accounting to monitor compliance with the targets for reducing greenhouse gas emissions which were initiated by the Climate Change (Annual Targets) (Scotland) Order 2010.
The Community Emissions Trading Scheme (Allocation of Allowances for Payment) Regulations 2012These Regulations came into force on 14 November 2012. They make provision in relation to the auction process for allocating Community tradable emissions allowances in the UK under the European Union Emissions Trading Scheme (EU ETS).
The Fluorinated Greenhouse Gases Regulations 2015The Fluorinated Greenhouse Gases Regulations 2015 implement the requirements of Regulation (EU) No 517/2014 of the European Parliament, covering certification of equipment such as refrigeration and fire protection and fluorinated gas (f-gas) based solvents. Creates offences and penalties for not complying with recovery of f-gases legislation, labelling, qualifications and certificates required to work with products or equipment containing them. The Regulations ban the manufacture and use of certain F-Gases and provide a time period for these to be phased out.
The Greenhouse Gas Emissions Trading Scheme Auctioning Regulations 2021These regulations came into force on 22 April 2021. The regulations include provisions for the auctioning of emissions allowances to emit 1 tonne or carbon dioxide equivalent under the UK ETS. The regulations were made under the Finance Act 2020 which include provisions for regulations to be made for emissions allowances in exchange for payment.

These regulations include the rules covering auctions and secondary markets for emissions allowances. The Recognised Auction Platforms (Amendment and Miscellaneous Provisions) Regulations 2021 were produced alongside these regulations and create an oversight role for the Financial Conduct Authority within the UK ETS.

The Greenhouse Gas Emissions Trading Scheme Auctioning Regulations 2021 were amended by The Greenhouse Gas Emissions Trading Scheme Auctioning (Amendment) (No. 2) Regulations 2021 by correcting errors within the regulations. The Greenhouse Gas Emissions Trading Scheme Auctioning (Amendment) Regulations 2023 amend the regulations to reduce the number of carbon allowances auctioned from 2024.

The Greenhouse Gas Emissions Trading Scheme (Amendment) Order 2024 amends this regulation to move the application window for free allocation of allowances under the UK ETS scheme back by one year to April – June 2025.
The Greenhouse Gas Emissions Trading Scheme Order 2020The Greenhouse Gas Emissions Trading Scheme Order 2020 establish the UK Greenhouse Gas ETS.
The Merchant Shipping (Prevention of Air Pollution from Ships) Regulations 2008The Merchant Shipping (Prevention of Air Pollution from Ships) Regulations 2008 implement MARPOL Convention Annex VI requirements in the UK, including those related to energy efficiency and carbon intensity of ships. Annex VI is concerned with the control of emissions of ozone depleting substances, NOx, SOx, and VOCs and require ships (including platforms and drilling rigs) to be issued with an International Air Pollution Certificate following survey. There are a number of exclusions and exemptions, which limits the applicability of Annex VI to offshore oil and gas operations. Some aspects of Annex VI are already in place including requirement for marine fuel oil suppliers to be registered and limits set on NOx emissions from marine diesel engines (including those on offshore installations). Note: MARPOL 73/78 also defines a ship to include “floating craft and fixed or floating platforms” and these are required where appropriate to comply with the requirements similar to those set out for vessels.

Guidance on the Sulphur Oxide requirements under this legislation are available in MGN 400 (M+F) Amendment 1: Additional guidance on the Merchant Shipping (Prevention of Air Pollution from Ships) Regulations 2008 as amended by the Merchant Shipping (Prevention of Air Pollution from Ships) (Amendment) Regulations 2010.
The National Emission Ceilings Regulations 2018These regulations set national ceilings and a requirement for the development of a reduction programme for sulphur dioxide, nitrogen oxides, volatile organic compounds, ammonia and fine particulate matter in the UK.
The Petroleum (Current Model Clauses) Order 1999An objective of the Petroleum Act 1998 is to conserve gas, a finite energy resource, by avoiding unnecessary wastage during the production of hydrocarbons from the UKCS. The actual Model Clause may vary depending on when the Block Licence was granted, but in recent licences flaring is covered by Paragraph 3 of Model Clause 21, and this states that the Licensee that not flare any gas from the licensed area or use gas for gas lift except with written consent. This Order came into effect on 15 February 1999.
The Petroleum Licensing (Exploration and Production) (Seaward and Landward Areas) Regulations 2004 The Petroleum Licensing (Exploration and Production) (Seaward and Landward Areas) Regulations 2004 include provisions in relation to applications to the Secretary of State for petroleum production licences in respect of seaward areas and applications to the Secretary of State for petroleum exploration licences in respect of seaward areas and landward areas below the low water line. They establish the overarching rules for applying for and granting petroleum exploration and production licences across the UK.
The Petroleum Licensing (Production) (Seaward Areas) Regulations 2008The Petroleum Licensing (Production) (Seaward Areas) Regulations 2008 set out detailed, offshore‑specific rules for seaward production licences, including licence structure, phases, and obligations.
The Sulphur Content of Liquid Fuels (Scotland) Regulations 2014This Regulation implements Directive 1999/32/EC in Scotland, setting maximum sulphur content for fuel including heavy fuel oil and gas oil including marine fuel.





International

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EU

For updated legislation following Brexit, please refer to the pdf document downloadable from the Environmental Legislation Page.

UK

Natural Environment and Rural Communities Act 2006This Natural Environment and Rural Communities Act 2006 (which applies in England and Wales only) makes provision about bodies concerned with the natural environment and rural communities; to make provision in connection with wildlife, SSSIs, National Parks and the Broads; to amend the law relating to rights of way; to make provision as to the Inland Waterways Amenity Advisory Council; to provide for flexible administrative arrangements in connection with functions relating to the environment and rural affairs and certain other functions; and for connected purposes.
Scotland’s National Marine PlanScotland’s National Marine Plan 2015 covers the management of both Scottish inshore region (out to 12 nautical miles) and offshore region (12 to 200 nautical miles). It applies to the exercise of both reserved and devolved functions and sets out the marine policies which must be considered in planning and permitting of any activities in the Scottish inshore and offshore regions, including oil and gas activities.
The Conservation (Natural Habitats, &c) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 1995The Conservation (Natural Habitats, &c) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 1995 implement the EC Habitat Directive within Northern Ireland, and act as the Habitats Regulations relating to management of Special Areas for Conservation (SAC) and Special Protection Areas (SPA) protection in Northern Ireland. They cover the Habitats Regulations Assessment (HRA) process and European Protected Species licensing in Northern Ireland.
The Conservation (Natural Habitats &c.) Regulations 1994 (as amended)The Conservation (Natural Habitats &c.) Regulations 1994 implement the species protection requirements of the Habitat Directive in Scotland only on land and inshore waters (0-12 nautical miles). The Regulations include protection of European Sites in Scotland, and details the Habitats Regulations Appraisal requirements for the sites.
The Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2017The Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2017 are the principal nature conservation regulations for England and Wales. They act as the Habitats Regulations relating to management of Special Areas for Conservation (SAC) and Special Protection Areas (SPA) protection in England and Wales and cover the Habitats Regulations Assessment (HRA) process and European Protected Species licensing on land and up to 12 nautical miles.
The Conservation of Offshore Marine Habitats and Species Regulations 2017The Conservation of Offshore Marine Habitats and Species Regulations 2017 provide nature conservation protection in offshore marine waters (<12 nautical miles) in the UK. They act as the Habitats Regulations relating to management of Special Areas for Conservation (SAC) and Special Protection Areas (SPA) protection and cover the Habitats Regulations Assessment (HRA) process and European Protected Species licensing beyond 12 nautical miles.
The Environmental Targets (Biodiversity) (England) Regulations 2023This legislation has been made under the Environment Act 2021 and sets legally binding targets for biodiversity in England, including out to the territorial sea (12 nm from shore). These Regulation set 2030 species abundance targets and longer term abundance, species extinction and habitat targets for 2042.
The Environmental Targets (Marine Protected Areas) Regulations 2023This legislation has been made under the Environment Act 2021 and sets legally binding targets for marine protected areas in England and Wales (inshore and offshore region). These Regulation set a target for at least 70% of protected features in MPAs to achieve favourable condition by the end of 2042, with the remainder of protected features to be in recovering condition.
The Invasive Alien Species (Enforcement and Permitting) Order 2019These regulations apply to the UK and outline enforcements to regulate activities involving invasive species present on the list in Regulation (EU) 1143/2014 on the prevention and management of the introduction and spread of invasive alien species. This includes when involvement with invasive species is either permitted or prohibited.
The Invasive Alien Species (Enforcement and Permitting) Order (Northern Ireland) 2019This order will come into force on the 1 December 2019. It applies to Northern Ireland only and outlines the restrictions on activities involving species on the list of Union concern and the consequences for disobeying these restrictions.
The Marine (Scotland) Act 2010The Marine (Scotland) Act 2010 is the primary legal framework for managing Scotland’s inshore marine area within 12 nautical miles. It includes the designations of a range of Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) across Scottish territorial waters, provides the inshore marine licensing framework and includes provision for the Scottish statutory marine planning framework.
The Nature Conservation Act (Scotland) 2004The Nature Conservation Act (Scotland) 2004 makes provisions in relation to the conservation of biodiversity, enhancement of Scotland’s natural beauty and protection of certain birds, animals and plants. It applies on land, in inland waters and in inshore marine waters.
Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 provides the main piece of primary legislation making provision for nature conservation in the UK (except Northern Ireland). It covers species protection, habitat protection, invasive species control, and public rights of way, including provisions for basking shark derogation licensing.
Wildlife and Natural Environment (Scotland) Act 2011The Scottish Government introduced the Wildlife and Natural Environment (Scotland) Act in 2011 to make the law on wildlife and the natural environment more efficient, effective and proportionate. The Act which came into force on 7 April, supports sustainable economic activity, particularly in the countryside, and to preserve the natural environment for the benefit of the public and many rural businesses.





International

Convention on the Protection of the Marine Environment of the North East Atlantic 1992 (OSPAR Convention) The 1992 OSPAR Convention guides international cooperation on the protection of the marine environment of the North-East Atlantic. It provides for stringent measures to be adopted with respect to the prevention and elimination of marine pollution and the protection of the marine environment. Under the Convention the Offshore Oil and Gas Industry Strategy sets the objective of preventing and eliminating pollution and taking the necessary measures to protect the maritime area against the adverse effects of offshore activities so as to safeguard human health and of conserving marine ecosystems and, when practicable, restoring marine areas which have been adversely affected. Adoption of Annex V in 1998, saw the convention embrace a more holistic responsibility for environmental protection of the north east Atlantic, including its diverse biodiversity. The UK is a contracting party to the OSPAR Convention.
Merchant Shipping (Anti-Fouling Systems) Regulations 2024 Merchant Shipping (Anti-Fouling Systems) Regulations 2024 came into force on 10 May 2024. These regulations prohibit the application of marine paints that contain cybutryne and other harmful organotin compounds as anti-fouling systems. These new rules apply to all UK flagged ships, whether sailing in the UK or abroad. Similarly, this also applies to non-UK flagged ships visiting the UK or in controlled waters.
OSPAR Decision 2000/3 on the Use of Organic-phase Drilling Fluids (OPF) and the Discharge of OPF-Contaminated CuttingsOSPAR Decision 2000/3 that came into effect on 16 January 2001 effectively eliminates the discharge of organic phase fluids (OPF) (oil based (OBM) or synthetic based (SBM) drilling fluids) or cuttings contaminated with these fluids. Use of OPF is still allowed provided total containment is operated. The use of diesel-oil-based drilling fluids is prohibited. The discharge of whole OPF to the sea is prohibited. The mixing of OPF with cuttings for the purpose of disposal is not acceptable. The discharge of cuttings contaminated with oil based fluids (OBF) (includes OBM and SBM) greater than 1% by weight on dry cuttings is prohibited. The use of OPF in the upper part of the well is prohibited. Exemptions may be granted by the national competent authority for geological or safety reasons. The discharge into the sea of cuttings contaminated with synthetic fluids will only be authorised in exceptional circumstances. Authorisations to be based on the application of BAT/BEP. Best Available Techniques described within the Decision include recycling, recovery and reuse of muds.
OSPAR Recommendation 2010/3 on a Harmonised Offshore Chemical Notification Format (HOCNF)The purpose of the Harmonised Offshore Chemical Notification Format (HOCNF) is to provide authorities with data and information about chemicals to be used and discharged offshore, to enable the authorities to take the appropriate regulatory action in accordance with the scope of OSPAR Decision 2000/2. Amended by OSPAR Recommendation 2014/17, OSPAR Recommendation 2019/03, OSPAR Recommendation 2021/08 and OSPAR Recommendation 2023/03.
OSPAR Recommendation 2017/01 on a Harmonised Pre-Screening Scheme for Offshore ChemicalsPre-screening is necessary in allowing authorities to identify substances intended for use, or used in, offshore chemicals with the aim of substituting those substances which are hazardous for more environmentally friendly chemicals or components contained within. Amended by OSPAR Recommendation 2019/04.
OSPAR Recommendation 2006/3 on Environmental Goals for the Discharge by the Offshore Industry of Chemicals that are, or which contain Substances Identified as Candidates for SubstitutionThe OSPAR Convention (in particular Annex III) is the main driver for reductions in oily discharges to the North Sea. The UK as a contracting party to the Convention is therefore obliged to implement any Decisions and Recommendations made by the Commissions. Certain decisions made under the earlier Paris Convention also still stand. The purpose of this Recommendation is to set an environmental goal for the discharge of offshore chemicals that are, or which contain substances identified as candidates for substitution, in order to set a specific time-frame for moving towards the cessation of these discharges from offshore installations.

EU

For updated legislation following Brexit, please refer to the pdf document downloadable from the Environmental Legislation Page.

UK

Offshore Chemical Notification Scheme (OCNS)The Offshore Chemical Notification Scheme (OCNS), which originally came into force on 15 May 2002, manages chemical use and discharge by the UK and Netherlands offshore petroleum operators. The OCNS uses the OSPAR Harmonised Mandatory Control Scheme (HMCS) developed through OSPAR Decision 2002/2 and its supporting recommendations.
The Classification, Labelling and Packaging of Chemicals (Amendments to Secondary Legislation) Regulations 2015These Regulations came fully into force on 1 June 2015 and apply to England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. Provisions relating to extent and amendments to the Biocidal Products and Chemicals (Appointment of Authorities and Enforcement) Regulations 2013 came into force on 31 May 2015. They amend various pieces of legislation arising from changes to the legislation at European level that regulates the classification, labelling and packaging of chemicals. Regulation (EC) 1272/2008 on classification, labelling and packaging of substances and mixtures comes fully into force on 1 June 2015, which has brought about the need for amendments.
The Environmental Protection (Disposal of Polychlorinated Biphenyls and other Dangerous Substances) (Scotland) Regulations 2000

The Environmental Protection (Disposal of Polychlorinated Biphenyls and other Dangerous Substances) (England and Wales) Regulations 2000

These regulations implement EC Directive 96/59/EC (16 September 1996) on the disposal of polychlorinated biphenyls and polychlorinated terphenyls in the UK - Scotland (8 May 2000) and England and Wales (4 May 2000) . The England and Wales Amendment of 2000, came into force on 1 January 2001. Equipment containing PCBs is now required to be identified, registered, labelled and disposed of and decontaminated. The following substances are covered in the definition of PCBs, but only those containing substances in a total of more than 0.005% by weight (equivalent to 50 ppm): Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs); Polychlorinated Terphenyls (PCT); Monomethyl-dibromo-diphenyl methane; Monomethyl-dichloro-diphenyl methane; and Monomethyl-tetrachlorodiphenyl methane.
The Merchant Shipping (Anti-Fouling Systems) Regulations 2009These Regulations ensure that the necessary enforcement provisions are in place in the UK to give effect to European Regulation (EC) No 782/2003 on the prohibition of organotin compounds on ships. This Regulation prohibits ships from having organotin compound based anti-fouling paints applied to their hulls or other external surfaces, and it establishes a survey and certification regime in relation to anti-fouling systems. Marine Guidance Note 398 (M+F) provides guidance on the requirements of these regulations.
The Merchant Shipping (Implementation of Ship-Source Pollution Directive) Regulations 2009 These Regulations implement EU Directive 2005/35/EEC in ship-source pollution and on the introduction of penalties for infringement, through amendment of the 1996 NLS Regulations and the Merchant Shipping Act 1995. The Regulations limit the defences available to the master or owner of a ship involved in an oil spill or chemical spill and extend liability for the discharge to others such as charterers and classification societies. This closed a loop hole in the existing legislation where some large spills were not open to prosecution under MARPOL.
The Offshore Installations (Emergency Pollution Control) Regulations 2002The Offshore Installations (Emergency Pollution Control) Regulations 2002 give the UK Government power to intervene in the event of an incident involving an offshore installation where there is, or may be a risk of significant pollution, or where an operator has failed to implement proper control and preventative measures. These Regulations apply to chemical and oil spills.
The Persistent Organic Pollutants Regulations 2007These Regulations control the production and use of certain persistent organic pollutants (e.g. PCBs and PAHs). Requirements include controls on use and waste handling/disposal of products containing such components.





EU

For updated legislation following Brexit, please refer to the pdf document downloadable from the Environmental Legislation Page.

UK

The Control of Major Accident Hazards Regulations 2015The Control of Major Accident Hazards (COMAH) Regulations 2015 regulated the COMAH requirements, including how dangerous substances are classified and provision of public information about sites and their hazards.
The Control Of Major Accident Hazards Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2015These regulations apply to Northern Ireland only and establish procedures with regard to the control of major accident hazards involving dangerous substances.
The Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002 (as amended)The Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) Regulations 2002 apply across the UK and are a health and safety regulations that are applicable to the environment with regards to chemical storage. COSHH is the law that requires employers to control substances that are hazardous to health.
The Hazardous Waste Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2005 These regulations implement Directive 2008/98/EC. This places controls on the management and movement of hazardous waste as well as implementing reporting requirements for producers, holders and carriers of hazardous waste.
The Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations 2013 (RIDDOR)Requires the reporting of work related accidents, diseases and dangerous occurrences. It applies to all work activities but not to all incidents. These Regulations came into force on 1 October 2013.





International

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EU

For updated legislation following Brexit, please refer to the pdf document downloadable from the Environmental Legislation Page.

UK

Pipelines Act 1962The Pipelines Act 1962 was introduced to regulate and facilitate the construction and safe operation of pipelines. The Act received Royal Assent on 1 August 1962.
Planning Act of 2008The Planning Act of 2008, Chapter 29 establishes the Infrastructure Planning Commission and makes provision about its functions; the authorisation of projects for the development of nationally significant infrastructure; to make provision about town and country planning; to make provision about the imposition of a Community Infrastructure Levy; and for connected purposes. Act was introduced and implemented into law in November 2008.
Planning etc. (Scotland) Act 2006Planning etc. (Scotland) Act 2006, which received Royal Assent on 20 December 2006, is one of the most important reforms in the planning system in recent years, providing a legal framework for administration by central and local government.
The Marine Works (Environmental Impact Assessment) (Scotland) Regulations 2017The Marine Works (Environmental Impact Assessment) (Scotland) Regulations 2017 apply in the Scottish inshore marine region (<12 nautical miles) and provide the legal framework for environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) for marine projects.
The Offshore Oil and Gas Exploration, Production, Unloading and Storage (Environmental Impact Assessment) Regulations 2020The Offshore Oil and Gas Exploration, Production, Unloading and Storage (Environmental Impact Assessment) Regulations 2020 simplify aspects of the EIA legislation regime for offshore projects. For example it introduces the possibility to submit a draft EIA to OPRED for the purposes of an informal review before engaging the formal EIA process, amend provisions required to fulfil the legal commitments arising from judicial reviews which include access to environmental impact assessment (EIA) information, incorporates a provision to undertake inspection and investigation in relation to any offence committed by a developer, correct existing offence provisions to ensure that the appropriate competent authorities' responsibilities are reflected, introduce changes to civil sanctions for regulatory breaches, introduce changes to the fee provisions for administrative and technical services.
The Pipeline Works (Environmental Impact Assessment) Regulations 2000The Pipeline Works (Environmental Impact Assessment) Regulations 2000 provide the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) framework proposed onshore pipelines which are more than 10 miles (16 km) long and require a Pipeline Construction Authorisation (PCA) from the Secretary of State under the Pipelines Act 1962. This applies to pipelines on land, which includes the foreshore (between low and high water marks) and partially enclosed areas of the sea such as bays, estuaries and harbours.





International

OSPAR Recommendation 2003/5 to promote the use and implementation of Environmental Management Systems by the Offshore IndustryThe goal of this Recommendation is that by the end of 2005 all operators within Contracting Parties' jurisdiction in the UKCS maritime area should have in place Environmental Management Systems that are in accordance with the principals of internationally recognised standards. This Recommendation had effect from 27 June 2003.

EU

For updated legislation following Brexit, please refer to the pdf document downloadable from the Environmental Legislation Page.




EU

For updated legislation following Brexit, please refer to the pdf document downloadable from the Environmental Legislation Page.

UK

Environmental Damage (Prevention and Remediation) (England) Regulations 2015

The Environmental Damage (Prevention and Remediation) (Wales) Regulations 2009

The Environmental Liability (Prevention and Remediation) (Amendment) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2009

The Environmental Liability (Scotland) Regulations 2009
These Regulations impose obligations on operators certain activities requiring them to prevent or remediate environmental damage in the UK jurisdictions, including marine waters beyond 12 nautical miles. They introduce the concept of 'polluter pays' principle and apply to damage to protected species, natural habitats, sites of special scientific interest (SSSIs), water and land and implement the EU Directive 2004/35/EC on environmental liability and Directive 2013/30/EU on the safety of offshore oil and gas operations into national law. Secretary of State will continue to be the enforcing authority with respect to preventing and remedying damage caused by oil, gas and carbon dioxide storage activities, and with respect to the prevention of damage from marine transport activities.





EU

For updated legislation following Brexit, please refer to the pdf document downloadable from the Environmental Legislation Page.

UK

The Contaminated Land (England) Regulations 2006The Contaminated Land (England) Regulations 2006 apply to England only and set out provisions relating to the identification and remediation of contaminated land under Part IIA of the Environmental Protection Act 1990 (the 1990 EPA). The Regulations make provision for an additional description of contaminated land that is required to be designated as a special site, i.e. land which is contaminated land as a result of radioactive substances in, on or under that land. The Regulations identify categories of ‘special’ sites where the Environment Agency is to be the enforcing authority. The Regulations clarify ‘remediation notices’ which can be served by a local authority or the Environment Agency specifying what is to be done by way of remediation and the time to be taken for action.
The Contaminated Land (Scotland) Regulations 2000The Contaminated Land (Scotland) Regulations 2000 make provision in under Part IIA of the Environmental Protection Act 1990 for the remediation of contaminated land. The Regulations identify sites known as 'special sites' for which SEPA is to be the enforcing authority. Local authorities are responsible for enforcing the scheme in the case of any other type of site. Guidance is also provided for the content and service of copies of ‘remediation notices’ served by a local authority or SEPA specifying what is to be done by way of remediation and the time limits within which action must be taken. The 2000 Regulations provided the circumstances in which contaminated land required designation as a special site, and provide for a remediation regime.
The Control of Pollution (Application, Appeals and Registers) Regulations 1996 Cited as the Control of Pollution (Applications, Appeals and Registers) Regulations 1996 which came into force on 31 December 1996, these Regulations outline the procedures for consents in England and Wales under the Water Resources Act 1991.
The Control of Pollution (Oil Storage) (England) Regulations 2001The Control of Pollution (Oil Storage) (England) Regulations 2001s, made under the Water Resources Act 1991, require any person having custody or control of oil to take precautions to prevent pollution of any controlled waters for the purposes of Part III of the Water Resources Act. The Regulations apply to oil stored in tanks, bulk containers oil drums and mobile bowsers and apply to oil containers of more than 200 litres. The Regulations apply to all oils including: petrol, diesel, central heating oil, lubricating oils, vegetable oil, heavy oils such as bitumen, oils used as solvents, such as paraffin or kerosene, and waste oils. In England the Regulations do not apply to oils stored: in a container situated within a building or wholly under ground; on premises used for refining or distributing oil; on a farm and used exclusively for agricultural purposes; or in any container with a storage capacity of 200 litres or less.
The Onshore Hydraulic Fracturing (Protected Areas) Regulations 2016The Onshore Hydraulic Fracturing (Protected Areas) Regulations 2016 apply to England and Wales only and define where hydraulic fracturing (“fracking”) is legally prohibited in order to protect sensitive environmental areas.
The Waste and Contaminated Land (Northern Ireland) Order 1997 as amendedThe Waste and Contaminated Land (Northern Ireland) Order 1997 sets out the waste management regime covering waste carrier registration and identifying and remedying contaminated land in Northern Ireland.
The Water Environment (Remedial Measures) (Scotland) Regulations 2016The Water Environment (Remedial Measures) (Scotland) Regulations 2016 allow Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) to serve a remedial measures notice on relevant personnel requiring they undertake specified remedial measures where adverse effects on the water environment have been found..
The Water Resources (Control of Pollution) (Oil Storage) (Wales) Regulations 2016The Water Resources (Control of Pollution) (Oil Storage) (Wales) Regulations 2016 apply to the storage of more than 200 litres of oil above ground at industrial, commercial or institutional sites. There are requirements for the storage of such oil, including:

  • Being stored in a container which is of sufficient strength and structural integrity to ensure it doesn’t leak;

  • The installation of the container has not affected its strength or structural integrity;

  • The container is situated within a secondary containment system that satisfies the specified requirements.
Water Environment and Water Services (Scotland) Act 2003The Water Environment and Water Services (Scotland) Act 2003 implements the EC Directive 2000/60/EC (Water Framework Directive) in Scotland only. The Act set out requirements for managing, protecting and improving the quality of water resources throughout Scotland and gave Scottish Ministers the power to do so.





International

Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES)The cold water coral Lophelia pertusa is known to exist on some offshore installations. If the coral is present and the installation upon which it is located is to be returned to shore it will be necessary to discuss with Defra the requirements of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species. Signed in 1973; CITES entered into force on 1 July 1975.
OSPAR Decision 98/3This decision requires that decommissioning will normally remove the whole of the installation but there are some possible exceptions for large structures. However, the provisions of OSPAR decisions 98/3 do not apply to pipelines. There are no international guidelines on the decommissioning of disused pipelines. This Decision entered into force on 9 February 1999, and replaced Decision 95/1 of the Oslo Commission concerning the Disposal of Offshore Installations.
The International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS), 1974This international set of safety standards applies to the construction, operation and management of merchant ships. This includes protective measures as well as regulations for navigational safety at sea. This convention has been amended several times by the Maritime Safety Committee (MSC). Most recently, the convention was amended on 1 January 2020 by Resolution MSC 96, 97, 98 and 99 which made various changes to vessel safety requirements.

EU

For updated legislation following Brexit, please refer to the pdf document downloadable from the Environmental Legislation Page.

UK

Coast Protection Act 1949Amending the law relating to the protection of the British coast against erosion and encroachment by the sea, to provide for the restriction and removal of works detrimental to navigation, to transfer the management of Crown foreshore from the Minister of Transport to the Commissioners of Crown Lands, and for purposes connected with the matters covered, receiving Royal Assent in November 1949.
Continental Shelf Act 1964An Act making provisions for the exploration and exploitation of the continental shelf, enabling effect to be given to certain provisions of the Convention on the High Seas done in Geneva on 29 April 1958, and for matters connected with those purposes. This Act received Royal Assent in April 1964.
The Merchant Shipping (Marine Equipment) Regulations 2016These regulations provide international standards for marine equipment on UK ships.
The Pipeline Safety Regulations 1996These regulations, which came into force on 11 April 1996, require operators to ensure that adequate arrangements are in place for dealing with incidents and emergencies involving a pipeline, particularly in the event of:

  • An accidental loss of fluid

  • The discovery of a defect in the pipeline or of damage to it

  • Any other emergency affecting the pipeline.


In addition, if the pipeline is defined by Regulation 18 (Schedule 2) as a "Major Accident Hazard Pipeline" in that it is carrying fluids which are; flammable in air, have a boiling point below 5ºC at 1 bar absolute, and are conveyed in the pipeline as a liquid; flammable in air and are to be conveyed in the pipeline as a gas at above 8 bar absolute; or have a vapour pressure greater than 1.5 bar absolute when in equilibrium with vapour at either the actual temperature of the liquid or at 20ºC. Then a Major Accident Prevention Document and Emergency Procedures must be prepared by the pipeline operator.





International

Convention on the Prevention of Marine Pollution by Dumping of Wastes and Other Matter 1972 (London Dumping Convention) - and its 1996 protocol, joint long-term programme (2014-2016).The objective of this Convention is primarily the prevention of pollution associated with dumping to sea from ships and aircraft. Discharges "incidental to or derived from normal operation" of ships and aircraft are excluded from the definition of dumping. Definition of a ship includes fixed and floating offshore installations. The Protocol entered into force on 24 March 2006. Reinjection of Mud Cuttings - reinjection of drill cuttings in field is allowed as a "normal" operational waste. Collection and shipment of drill cuttings to another field or site for reinjection, is possible under the Convention provided a FEPA licence is obtained.
International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships (MARPOL) 73/78 - Annex 2Annex II of MARPOL controls pollution by noxious liquid substances and establishes a categorisation system for noxious and liquid substances and specifies permitted discharge limits for these substances. Annex II also requires for chemical tankers built after July 1986 to comply with the International Bulk Chemical (IBC) Code.

Annex II also outlines the control measures for offshore support vessels other than chemical tankers and liquified gas carriers that are permitted to carry noxious liquid substances in bulk.   Amendments to the IBC Code in IMO Resolution MEPC.318(74) came into force in January 2021 and imposed revised carriage requirements for substances listed under Annex II on MARPOL. MGN 649 (M) Amendment 1 Application of MARPOL Annex II to offshore support vessels sets out the implications of the amendment to IBC code on offshore support vessels that are less restricted in the substances they can carry.
OSPAR Recommendation 2012/5 for a risk-based approach (RBA) to the Management of Produced Water Discharges from Offshore InstallationsThe RBA recommendation aims to achieve a reduction of oil in produced water discharged into the sea to a level which will adequately ensure that each of those discharges will present no harm to the marine environment, and a reduction in discharges of hazardous substances via produced water with the ultimate aim of achieving concentrations in the marine environment that are near background values for naturally occurring substances and close to zero for man-made synthetic substances.
OSPAR Recommendation 2001/1 for the Management of Produced Water from Offshore Installations (as amended)OSPAR Recommendation 2001/1 provides measures for the management of produced water discharges from offshore oil and gas installations in the OSPAR maritime area.

UK

Pollution Prevention and Control Act 1999 This act sets out regulations for the prevention of pollution. Section 3 of this act relates to the prevention of pollution after accidents involving offshore installations. The following orders list the directives pertinent to this act for England and Wales:
The Merchant Shipping (Accident Reporting and Investigation) Regulations 2012These regulations implement EU Directive 2009/18/EC on the investigation of accidents in the maritime transport sector. The regulations set out the procedures for dealing with specified casualties and incidents which are collectively defined as an "accident", including the purpose and scope of an investigation and how an investigation is to be conducted and which accidents and incidents may be investigated. Accident means "a marine casualty, which is an event or sequence of events that has resulted in any of the following and has occurred directly by or in connection with the operation of a ship involving"....including "pollution, or the potential for such pollution to the environment caused by damage to a ship or ships". These Regulations came into effect on 31 July 2012.
The Merchant Shipping (Control and Management of Ships’ Ballast Water and Sediments) Regulations 2022The Merchant Shipping (Control and Management of Ships’ Ballast Water and Sediments) Regulations 2022 implement the International Convention for the Control and Management of Ships’ Ballast Water and Sediments. The convention aims to minimise the transfer of harmful aquatic organisms and pathogens by prohibiting the discharge of unmanaged ballast water and sediments. These regulations prohibit the discharge of ballast water or sediments unless a ballast water management plan is being followed which meets the criteria set by these regulations. Certain ships > 400 tonnes will be subject to inspection to ensure compliance with these regulations. The regulations apply to all UK ships and all non-UK ships whilst in UK waters.

MGN 675 provides guidance on these regulations.
The Merchant Shipping (Reporting of Pollution Incidents) Regulations 1987 (POLREP)Require that the master of a ship involved in an incident involving actual or probable discharge of oil, noxious substance carried in bulk or marine pollutant in packaged form, report the particulars of the incident without delay. These Regulations entered into force on 6 April 1987.
The Merchant Shipping (Ship to Ship Transfers) Regulations 2020The Merchant Shipping (Ship to Ship Transfers) Regulations 2020 regulate ship to ship transfers of oil-based cargo or other potentially hazardous substances which could result in hazardous discharges at sea. Under these regulations, any cargo transfers or bunkering operations in UK waters is prohibited. They also put in place a legislative regime for assessing and licensing harbour authorities which propose to allow ship-to-ship transfers in their waters. These regulations consolidate the previous regulations of the same name and add several additional amendments relating to the authorisation of ship to ship transfers by harbour authorities and the Secretary of State.
The Pollution Prevention and Control (Industrial Emissions) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2013The Pollution Prevention and Control (Industrial Emissions) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2013 implement EU Directive 2010/75/EU on industrial emissions in Northern Ireland. These Regulations provide a consolidated system of environmental permitting for Northern Ireland, and extend the range of activities that require an environmental permit, including IPPC applications.
The Pollution Prevention and Control Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2003The Pollution Prevention and Control Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2003 establish an integrated permitting regime for certain industrial and commercial activities in Northern Ireland.





International

OSPAR Decision 98/2 on Dumping of Radioactive WasteOSPAR Decision 98/2 on Dumping of Radioactive Waste renounces the possibility of resuming dumping at sea of radioactive substances, including waste. The UK is a contracting party to the OSPAR Commission.

EU

For updated legislation following Brexit, please refer to the pdf document downloadable from the Environmental Legislation Page.

UK

The Merchant Shipping (Dangerous Goods and Marine Pollutants) Regulations 1997The Merchant Shipping (Dangerous Goods and Marine Pollutants) Regulations 1997 regulate shipments of spent nuclear fuel for re-processing as well as shipments of radioactive waste.
The Merchant Shipping (Reporting Requirements for Ships Carrying Dangerous or Polluting Goods) Regulations 1995 (as amended)The Merchant Shipping (Reporting Requirements for Ships Carrying Dangerous or Polluting Goods) Regulations 1995 establish mandatory reporting duties for ships carrying dangerous or polluting goods when operating in or bound for UK ports and waters.
The Radiation (Emergency Preparedness and Public Information) Regulations 2019These regulations outline the safety standards required when ionising radioactive substances are present above certain thresholds. These safety standards include relevant hazard assessments and the subsequent planning to minimise these hazards.
The Radiation (Emergency Preparedness and Public Information) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2019/185 These regulations apply to Northern Ireland only and transpose elements of Directive 2013/59/Euratom relating to exposure to ionising radiation in the work place. Principally, this includes the emergency preparedness and response elements of Directive 2013/59/Euratom. This came into force on 1 November 2019.
The Transfrontier Shipment of Radioactive Waste and Spent Fuel (EU Exit) Regulations 2019These regulations provide procedures for the import, export and transit of radioactive waste and spent fuel into and out of the UK post EU exit.





International

Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) Decision C(2001)107/FINALDue to the annual volume and value of recoverable hazardous wastes the OECD is developing a ‘control system’ to promote and enhance environmentally sound management of waste. This work is viewed as necessary to continuously keep up to date and improve the regulatory framework put in place by the OECD on 14 June 2001. The development of a ‘global waste control system’ is ongoing. The OECD Decision creates a streamlined system for regulating movements of hazardous waste for recovery between OECD countries in accordance with the framework established by the Basel Convention. Export of hazardous wastes to non OECD members for disposal or recovery is prohibited. The OECD Decision has been revised since through several amendments. A guidance manual has been developed.

EU

For updated legislation following Brexit, please refer to the pdf document downloadable from the Environmental Legislation Page.

UK

Environment Protection Act 1990 (EPA 90)The Environmental Protection Act 1990 is a primary UK environmental law that defines the structure and authority for waste management and the control of emissions into the environment.
The Carriage of Dangerous Goods and Use of Transportable Pressure Equipment Regulations 2010 (Northern Ireland) as amendedThe Carriage of Dangerous Goods and Use of Transportable Pressure Equipment Regulations 2010 (Northern Ireland) apply the ADR UN agreement in Northern Ireland only.
The Controlled Waste and Duty of Care Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2013The Controlled Waste and Duty of Care Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2013 classify waste as household waste, commercial waste or industrial waste for the purposes of Part 2 of the Waste and Contaminated Land (Northern Ireland) Order 1997 and thus determining the meaning of ‘controlled waste’.
The Hazardous Waste (England and Wales) Regulations 2005These Regulations impose procedures for Special Waste/Hazardous Waste that add to those already under the Duty of Care, including requirements for transportation and disposal within a strict documented framework (see Transfer of Special / Hazardous Waste).
The International Waste Shipments (Amendment of Regulation (EC) No 1013/2006) Regulations 2020These regulations came into force on 1 January 2021 and amend the Retained EU Regulation 1013/2006 on shipments of waste to apply changes to the Basel Convention on the Control of Transboundary Movements of Hazardous Wastes and their Disposal. They introduce and remove different codes and references for hazardous plastic wastes.
The International Waste Shipments (Amendment of Regulation (EC) No. 1013/2006 and 1418/2007) Regulations 2021These regulations came into force in July 2021 and amend Retained EU Regulation 1418/2007 on the export for recovery of certain waste listed in Regulation (EC) 1013/2006 by seeing export control procedures for the new non-hazardous plastic waste category “B3011” and remove references to the waste class B3010 which is no longer used. These regulations amend Retained EU Regulations 1013/2006 and 1418/2007 to set out export control procedures of non-hazardous and plastic substances which were recently classified as B3011.
The Merchant Shipping (Prevention of Pollution by Garbage from Ships) Regulations 2020The Merchant Shipping (Prevention of Pollution by Garbage from Ships) Regulations 2020 incorporate the MARPOL 73/78 Annex V – Prevention of Pollution by Garbage from Ships into domestic law. They refer the reader directly to the international text, avoiding the need to transpose detailed technical obligations into the UK Regulations. These restrictions include prohibiting the discharge of garbage into the sea with the exception of certain circumstances (e.g. accidental loss and where discharge is necessary for safety reasons or for the protection of marine environment). It also imposes other provisions relating to the management of garbage and ships.
The Merchant Shipping (Prevention of Pollution by Sewage from Ships) Regulations 2020 These UK regulations incorporate the text of Annex IV of MARPOL into domestic law. These regulations refer to the Annex IV text and apply the restrictions on the prevention of pollution by sewage from ships, including sewage treatment on ships and discharge of sewage. Under these regulations, discharge of sewage from ships is prohibited unless under certain circumstances, as specified within the regulations. Amended to include the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Resolution MEPC 330(76) which revise Annex I (Prevention of pollution by oil) and Annex IV (Prevention of pollution by sewage from ships). The amendment includes the exemption of unmanned non-self propelled barges from survey and certification requirements and requiring a specified exemption to be issued in each case. This applies to all UK vessels well as non-UK vessels in UK waters.
The Special Waste Regulations 1996 as amendedThe Special Waste Regulations 1996 apply in Scotland and impose procedures for Special Waste that add to those already under the Duty of Care, including requirements for transportation and disposal within a strict documented framework. The Regulations provide a new definition of Special Waste in accordance with the EC Hazardous Waste Directive (91/689/EEC). The Hazardous Waste List has been expanded and refined and is now included in the European Waste Catalogue.
The Transfrontier Shipment of Waste Regulations 2007The Transfrontier Shipment of Waste Regulations 2007 tighten the regime for export of waste. Requires the UK to implement a waste management plan for addressing the dispatch of waste from the UK. It creates an offence for shipping waste in breach of the requirements; all shipments must be managed in an 'environmentally sound manner' and without endangering human health.
The Waste (England and Wales) Regulations 2011 (as amended)The Waste (England and Wales) Regulations 2011 (as amended) transpose Directive 2008/98/EC into national legislation and places a greater emphasis on preventing, re-using and recycling waste.
The Waste Management Licensing (Scotland) Regulations 2011The Waste Management Licensing (Scotland) Regulations 2011 consolidate the waste management licensing and exemption system for the purpose of implementing Directive 2008/98/EC on waste.
The Waste Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2011The Waste Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2011 transpose Directive 2008/98/EC on waste into Northern Irish law. This regulation aims to reduce waste and includes provisions for waste prevention programmes and amend various pieces of legislation to fulfil Directive 2008/98/EC objectives.
The Waste (Scotland) Regulations 2011 The 2011 Scotland Regulations make a number of amendments to a variety of Scottish waste legislation to transpose aspects of Directive 2008/98/EC on waste into Scottish law. These Regulations may be cited as the Waste (Scotland) Regulations 2011 and came into force on 27 March 2011. The Regulations allows the partial suspension, revocation, transfer and surrender of site licences, and allows licences held by the same person to be consolidated if they cover the same site or more than one mobile plant.
The Waste Management Licensing (Northern Ireland) Regulations 2003 as amendedThe Waste Management Licensing (Northern Ireland) Regulations 2003 came into force on the 19 December 2003 implementing Directive 2008/98/EC on waste in Northern Ireland only. The 2003 Regulations have since been amended in 2011, which came into force on the 30 December 2011. The regulations cover applications for waste management licences, which authorise the deposit, disposal and treatment of controlled waste.
Waste Minimisation Act 1998This enables local authorities to arrange for waste minimisation in their areas and can be cited as the Waste Minimisation Act 1998 from 19 November 1998. This Act does not extend to Northern Ireland.



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