Scottish EPA publishes second annual report

Chief Executive Alasdair Paton admitted that SEPA had failed to meet all its targets for the year, but stressed that there had been environmental improvements and reductions of emissions in many areas, particularly in estuarine and coastal waters.

“We have shown improvements in the quality of discharges to rivers and coastal waters, but these have yet to be translated into overall improvements in water quality,” said Paton. .

The report, which covers the period covering the period 1 April 97 to 31 March 98, examines SEPA’s efforts to introduce an integrated pollution prevention and control framework to Scotland.

The agency has introduced a more sensitive quality classification system and is conducting investigative work and developing action plans in order to improve problem areas. For example, SEPA has jointly funded an investigation into West coast bathing waters failure to meet EC standard in 1997. A report is expected in early 1999.

However, the report shows SEPA did not reach its target for the review of existing Waste Management Licences and Local Air Pollution Control Authorisations, but evidence shows that measure taken has improved environmental protection and reduced emissions where reviews have been completed. .

The report also shows SEPA has introduced regulation to Waste Management, Local Air Pollution Control and the control of Radioactive Substances and Waste.