As climate change and environmental degradation become increasingly pressing issues, the environmental responsibilities of businesses take on particular importance.
Taking action towards sustainability and minimising the negative impact of business on the planet is not only an ethical issue, but also a legal and regulatory one. Businesses need to be aware of the wide range of responsibilities they have to ensure compliance with current legislation and to contribute to protecting the planet for future generations.
Environmental obligations of entrepreneurs - legal basis
In the context of environmental protection, an entrepreneur is any person or company carrying out business activities that have an impact on the environment. As such, an entrepreneur's environmental responsibilities include responsible waste handling, emissions monitoring, energy efficiency management and conservation of natural resources. The legal bases that most often apply to a company include:
- Directive 2008/98/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 19 November 2008 on waste and repealing certain Directives - establishing a framework for the management of waste to minimise its impact on the environment,
- Act of 27 April 2001. Environmental Protection Law (OJ 2001 No. 62, item 627) - which sets out the general rules for environmental protection activities, including the obligations of companies to comply with emission standards and liability for environmental damage,
- Regulation (EC) No 1907/2006 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 18 December 2006 concerning the Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH) and establishing a European Chemicals Agency (REACH Regulation) - requiring companies to register, evaluate, authorise and restrict chemicals.
These and many other laws shape an entrepreneur's environmental responsibilities, requiring not only compliance with applicable standards, but also a proactive approach to environmental management, innovation and sustainability. It is therefore important for businesses to keep abreast of regulatory developments and adapt their operations in a way that promotes environmental protection and contributes to sustainable development. Control over compliance with environmental regulations is exercised by, among others, the Environmental Protection Inspectorate, the Chief Inspectorate of Environmental Protection and the Provincial Environmental Protection Inspectorates.
Main obligations of entrepreneurs related to environmental legislation
Among the most important obligations of entrepreneurs related to environmental legislation the need to comply with standards for emissions to air, water and soil should be highlighted, which requires companies to use the best available techniques to minimise the negative environmental impact of their activities.
Another important obligation is to manage waste according to the waste hierarchy principle - from prevention, preparation for reuse, recycling and disposal.
In addition, Entrepreneurs must comply with chemicals regulations, including the REACH Regulation, which imposes obligations for the registration, evaluation, authorisation and restriction of chemical substances placed on the EU market. It is also important to implement practices that increase energy efficiency and invest in renewable energy sources, in line with directives promoting the use of energy from renewable sources.
Environmental protection in business also includes the need to obtain the appropriate environmental permits, to report on one's activities and their impact on the environment, and to continually adapt to changing legislation and environmental standards.
It is also important to be transparent about environmental activities and actively communicate with stakeholders - including customers, suppliers and local communities - this plays an important role in building trust and a positive brand image. Companies can engage in community initiatives focused on environmental protection, which in turn can benefit both the planet and the businesses themselves.
Support for companies in the field of environmental protection
The environmental obligations of businesses are not only a legal requirement, but also an element of social responsibility. Companies that actively pursue sustainability and implement environmentally friendly practices not only contribute to the protection of our planet, but also build a strong brand and win customer loyalty. It is therefore important to continuously strive for environmental excellence, to invest in green technologies and innovation, as well as to communicate openly with stakeholders about the actions taken and their impact on the environment.
Every company must be mindful of its responsibilities as an entrepreneur. Environmental protection is made easier through EKOPRO Group's activities. To best meet the needs of our customers, we offer environmental consulting, as well as a comprehensive environmental outsourcing. We help companies with issues such as:
Entrepreneurs should see environmental obligations not as a burden but as an opportunity for growth and gain a competitive advantage in the sustainable business market.
