Pollution
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Pesticide Usage in Scotland: Rodenticides on Arable Farms
This report presents the results of a survey of rodenticide use on arable farms in Scotland in 2022.
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Air quality: key behaviours report
Report commissioned to identify key public behaviours that have the most impact on improving air quality, and to support future public engagement work. The report focuses on the actions households and the general public can take to support improving outdoor air quality.
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Climate change - national adaptation plan 2024 to 2029: consultation - easy read
The impacts of climate change are already being felt by people in Scotland. That is why, as well as taking action to reduce emissions, we must also take steps to adapt to climate change. This is an easy-read version of the consultation on the Scottish National Adaptation Plan 2024 to 2029.
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Greenhouse gas emissions projections: phase 1 and phase 2 modelling results
Analysis undertaken by Ricardo-AEA for the Scottish Government to provide an estimated projection of Scottish emissions from 2019 to 2045 which capture announced Scottish and UK policies.
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Marine science and innovation strategy
Establishes the vision for marine science and innovation in Scotland and six outcomes to strengthen the impact of marine science, evidence and data.
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Environmental Authorisations (Scotland) Regulations 2018 draft - proposed amendments: consultation
This consultation sets out proposals for incorporating SEPA’s four main regulatory regimes into an integrated environmental authorisation framework as part of Scottish Government and SEPA’s joint Better Environmental Regulation Programme.
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Negative Emissions Technologies (NETS): Feasibility Study
This study estimates the maximum Negative Emissions Technologies (NETs) potential achievable in Scotland, 2030 - 2050.
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UK Emissions Trading Scheme: Business and Regulations Impact Assessment (BRIA)
This Business and Regulatory Impact Assessment (BRIA) covers the potential impacts on Scottish businesses due to upcoming changes to the UK Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS).
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Air pollution - health impacts: summary research findings
This report presents a summary of the research findings from the evidence on health impacts of low-level air pollution in countries with levels of ambient concentrations comparable to Scotland.
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Low-level pollution - health impacts: evidence review
This review explores the existing evidence on the health effects associated with low-level pollution in countries that have levels of ambient air pollution similar to Scotland.
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Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) for the Small Landholdings and Land Use Tenancy Proposals Environmental Report
SEA is a systematic process for evaluating the environmental consequences of proposed plans, strategies, or programmes. This Report accompanies the Small Landholding and Land Use Tenancy proposals, within the Land Reform Bill.
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Cleaner Air for Scotland 2: progress report 2022-2023
Second annual report summarising progress on delivering actions since the Cleaner Air for Scotland 2 strategy was published in July 2021.
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Nitrous Oxide emissions associated with 100% hydrogen boilers: research
Research to measure the gas composition of flue gas from hydrogen boilers under normal, real world operating conditions, with a view to establishing what, if any, greenhouse gases are emitted during combustion.
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Impacts of the sale of house coal and the most polluting manufactured solid fuels: report
We commissioned this evidence review to inform proposals for introducing a ban on the sale of house coal and high sulphur content manufactured solid fuels in Scotland.
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Non-methane volatile organic compound emissions from malt whisky maturation: final report
Review of the human health and environmental impacts of non-methane volatile organic compound emissions from malt whisky maturation facilities prepared for the Scottish Government by Aether.
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Environment - guiding principles: statutory guidance
This guidance provides information on how officials across government should apply the environmental principles when developing policy.
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Environment - guiding principles consultation: statutory guidance – Parliamentary statement and analysis report
As required by section 18(4) of the UK Withdrawal from the European Union (Continuity) (Scotland) Act 2021 the Scottish Government has provided a parliamentary statement and an analysis report on the consultation on Scotland’s Guiding Principles on the Environment: Statutory Guidance.
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Vision for sustainable aquaculture: island communities impact assessment
Island communities impact assessment for the vision for sustainable aquaculture.
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Vision for sustainable aquaculture
The Vision for sustainable aquaculture describes the Scottish Government’s long-term aspirations to 2045 for the finfish, shellfish and seaweed farming sectors, and the wider aquaculture supply chain.
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Vision for sustainable aquaculture: child rights and wellbeing screening sheet
Child rights and wellbeing screening sheet for the Vision for sustainable aquaculture
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NHS Scotland - climate emergency and sustainability: annual report 2021 to 2022
Report for 2021 to 2022 providing information on; greenhouse gas emissions arising from the operations of NHS Scotland, actions which have been taken or are underway to reduce NHS Scotland’s greenhouse gas emissions and environmental impact, and actions to adapt to climate change.
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Air quality report 2022: public engagement
Findings from a quantitative study exploring public perceptions of air quality in Scotland among adults.
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Firework control zones: guidance for local authorities
Guidance which details the process local authorities should follow for designating, amending, or revoking a firework control zone within their boundaries.
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Just transition for the transport sector: a discussion paper
This discussion paper is intended to support engagement on a just transition for the transport sector. Building on this engagement, a draft targeted action plan and route map (late 23/24) will outline the key steps to delivering a fair transition for the sector.
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Emamectin benzoate (EmBz) - environmental quality standard (EQS) - implementation: consultation
Sets out our directions to the Scottish Environmental Protection Agency (SEPA) on the application of a new environmental quality standard (EQS) for Emamectin benzoate (EmBz). We are seeking views on the timescale SEPA should implement to apply the new EQS reducing the discharge limits for these farms.
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Equality, opportunity, community: New leadership - A fresh start
This publication sets out the First Minister’s vision for Scotland and the outcomes he and his government aim to achieve by 2026.
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Environment Strategy for Scotland: second progress report
The second annual report to Parliament on progress in developing the Environment Strategy for Scotland, as required under the UK Withdrawal from the European Union (Continuity) (Scotland) Act 2021.
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Local air quality management: policy guidance
Updated guidance for local authorities to take account of Environmental Standards Scotland's recommendations to strengthen the local air quality management regime.
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Environmental Standards Scotland air quality investigation - Scottish Government improvement plan
This improvement plan sets out the Scottish Government’s response to the six key recommendations made by Environmental Standards Scotland following its investigation into air quality.
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National Electrofishing Programme for Scotland (NEPS) 2021: analysis
The National Electrofishing Programme for Scotland (NEPS) is a statistical survey design that ensures collection of unbiased data on the density and status of salmon and the pressures that affect them, including water quality and genetic introgression. This report presents the latest analysis.
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Ocean literacy survey: headline findings
Headline findings from an online survey with the public in Scotland on the topic of ocean literacy - exploring the public's understanding of the marine environment. It is part of a wider project covering England and Wales.
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Low Carbon Manufacturing Challenge Fund: business regulatory impact assessment
This business and regulatory impact assessment (BRIA) for the Low Carbon Manufacturing Challenge Fund considers the impacts of the Fund on businesses in Scotland.
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Breaking New Ground? Developing a Scottish tax to replace the UK Aggregates Levy: consultation
The Programme for Government 2022 to 2023 sets out a commitment to introduce a Scottish Aggregates Levy Bill. To help inform the Bill, this consultation invites views on how a new and distinctive Scottish aggregates tax, replacing the current UK levy, should be structured and operate.
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Scottish City Region and Growth Deals: carbon management guidance for projects and programmes
Guidance for project owners on managing carbon emissions associated with Scottish City Region and Growth Deal projects.
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Fishing practices adapted in commercial fisheries: review
Comprehensive literature review on the specific interventions taken in Scotland, the UK and EU to reduce the climate related impacts of the marine wild capture fisheries sector complemented with a series of stakeholder interviews on direct experiences and challenges.
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Renewable and zero direct emissions heating systems in affordable housing projects (phase 2): evaluation
An evaluation of the selection, installation and performance of zero direct emissions heating (ZDEH) systems installed in new affordable homes in Scotland.
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Zero direct emissions heat in new build affordable homes: case study
Case studies detailing the choice, installation and experience of zero direct emissions heating systems in new affordable homes in Scotland across various sites and housing types.
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New Build Heat Standard: consultation - part two
We are seeking views on our detailed proposals for a New Build Heat Standard (NBHS) to prohibit the use of direct emissions heating systems in new buildings warranted from April 2024.
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Response to the Climate Change Committee: progress reducing emissions – report to Parliament 2021
In December 2021, the Committee on Climate Change (CCC) published its annual report on progress in reducing emissions in Scotland, assessing the government’s climate change mitigation activity. This report addresses the CCC’s recommendations.
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Scottish Government at COP26: What was achieved?
This report provides an account of the activities delivered through the Scottish Government’s COP26 programme and how that activity supported the Scottish Government’s main climate related policy aims.
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Scottish Natural Capital Accounts 2022
This report estimates quantity and value of services supplied by Scotland's natural capital.
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Single-use food containers and other single-use items: call for evidence
This call for evidence will help inform policy development on how to reduce consumption of single-use food containers and other single-use items which will in turn help the move to a more circular economy.
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A Blue Economy Vision for Scotland
Sets out our long-term ambition for Scotland’s blue economy to 2045. It demonstrates how much we value our marine environment and its significance. This is captured in six outcomes sitting across a range of environmental, social and economic ambitions.
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Environment strategy for Scotland: progress report
The first annual report to Parliament on progress in developing the Environment Strategy for Scotland, as required under the UK Withdrawal from the European Union (Continuity) (Scotland) Act 2021.
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National Islands Plan: annual report 2021
The Islands (Scotland) Act 2018 requires that a report is presented to Parliament each year setting out the progress made towards delivery of the National Islands Plan.
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Role of incineration in the waste hierarchy - review: call for evidence
The call for evidence seeks your views and evidence relating to the review of the role of incineration in the waste hierarchy.
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Scotland's Climate Assembly - recommendations for action: SG response
Scotland's Climate Assembly published their full report on 23 June 2021. It included 81 recommendations for the Scottish Government, who had six months to respond. This response sets out the existing and proposed actions that government will take in order to address their recommendations.
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Deposit Return Scheme – assurance of action plan: report – September 2021
This is an evidence-based snapshot of the status of the Deposit and Return Scheme (DRS) for Scotland programme carried out by an independent review team on 21-23 September 2021. It was performed as part of the Scottish Government’s review into the implementation timetable for DRS.
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Deposit Return Scheme – gateway review: report – June 2021
This is an evidence-based snapshot of the status of the Deposit and Return Scheme (DRS) for Scotland programme carried out by an independent review team on 14-16 June 2021. It was performed as part of the Scottish Government’s review into the implementation timetable for DRS.
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National litter and flytipping consultation: fairer Scotland duty assessment
Fairer Scotland Duty Assessment (FSDA) for the proposed actions for the National Litter and Flytipping Strategy.
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National litter and flytipping consultation: island communities impact assessment
Island communities impact assessment (ICIA) for the proposed actions for the National Litter and Flytipping Strategy.
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National litter and flytipping: consultation
This consultation proposes potential actions to tackle litter and flytipping in Scotland. Responses to this consultation will inform the development of the final National Litter and Flytipping Strategy which will be published in early 2022.
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National litter and flytipping consultation: strategic environmental assessment
Strategic environmental assessment (SEA) for the proposed actions for the National Litter and Flytipping Strategy.
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National litter and flytipping consultation: equality impact assessment
Equality impact assessment (EQIA) for the proposed actions for the National and Litter Flytipping Strategy.
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National litter and flytipping consultation: business and regulatory impact assessment
Partial business and regulatory assessment (BRIA) for the proposed actions for the National Litter and Flytipping Strategy.
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Guiding principles on the environment: draft statutory guidance
Draft statutory guidance on the guiding principles on the environment and the duties set out in Part 2 of the UK Withdrawal from the European Union (Continuity) (Scotland) Act 2021.
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River basin management plans - silage, slurry and liquid digestate – storage and application: consultation analysis
Analysis of a consultation on the storage and application of silage, slurry and liquid digestate held from 12 January 2021 to 13 April 2021.
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Single-Use Plastics Regulations: draft guidance
Draft guidance for the implementation of the Environmental Protection (Single-use Plastic Products) (Scotland) Regulations 2021 (the Regulations). A final version will be produced before the Regulations come into force on 1 June 2022.
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Sewage sludge: odour emissions assessment
This report is part of the research project undertaken by the James Hutton Institute on the impacts on human health and environment arising from the spreading of sewage sludge to land (CR/2016/23).
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Spreading of sewage sludge to land - impacts on human health and environment (CR/2016/23): project summary
This is the project summary of the research project undertaken by the James Hutton Institute on the impacts on human health and environment arising from the spreading of sewage sludge to land (CR/2016/23).
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Spreading of sewage sludge to land - impacts on human health and the environment: community concerns
This workshop summary report is part of the research project undertaken by the James Hutton Institute on the impacts on human health and environment arising from the spreading of sewage sludge to land (CR/2016/23).
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Sewage sludge processing systems in Scotland
This report on sewage sludge processing systems is part of the research project undertaken by the James Hutton Institute on the impacts on human health and environment arising from the spreading of sewage sludge to land (CR/2016/23).
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Potentially hazardous agents in land-applied sewage sludge: human health risk assessment
This report on the risks to human health is part of the research project undertaken by the James Hutton Institute on the impacts on human health and environment arising from the spreading of sewage sludge to land (CR/2016/23).
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Climate change - Net Zero Nation: public engagement strategy
Sets out our overarching framework for engaging the people of Scotland in the transition to a net zero nation which is prepared for the effects of our changing climate.
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Marine assessment 2020: headlines and next steps - booklet
The Headlines and Next Steps booklet is a summary of Scotland's Marine Assessment 2020. It presents summaries of the already published detailed assessments.
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Water environment: legislation
A list of all legislation relating to the water environment in Scotland.
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National Planning Framework 4 - improving air quality outcomes: research
Research findings on improving air quality outcomes that will help inform policy development for National Planning Framework 4.
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Cleaner Air for Scotland 2: equalities impact assessment
Equalities Impact Assessment (EQIA) for the draft new air quality strategy for Scotland.
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Cleaner Air for Scotland 2: business and regulatory impact assessment
Partial Business and Regulatory Impact Assessment (BRIA) for the draft new air quality strategy for Scotland.
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Cleaner Air for Scotland 2: environmental report
An Environmental Report to assess the likely significant environmental impacts of the new air quality strategy.
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Cleaner Air for Scotland 2: consultation
Consultation on a draft new air quality strategy for Scotland, taking into account the recommendations arising from the independent review of the Cleaner Air for Scotland strategy.
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Cleaner Air for Scotland - air quality public attitudes and behaviour: summary report
Review of the existing evidence on public attitudes and behaviour related to air pollution to inform the draft of the new Cleaner Air for Scotland (CAFS) strategy.
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Cleaner Air for Scotland – air quality public attitudes and behaviour: final report
Review of the existing evidence on public attitudes and behaviour related to air pollution to inform the draft of the new Cleaner Air for Scotland (CAFS) strategy.
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Preventing plastic pollution from pellet loss: supply chain approach
Reducing the risk of plastic pellet loss, particularly during transfer along the supply chain.
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Marine plastic pollution: research
Research on the plastic value chain in Scotland to better understand this landscape and the potential for intervention to address marine plastic pollution.
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Developing Scotland's circular economy: consultation on proposals for legislation
We are seeking your views on proposed legislation for the circular economy bill and secondary legislation.
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Circular Economy Bill proposals: partial EQIA
Partial equalities impact assessment (EQIA) on proposed legislation for the circular economy bill.
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Circular Economy Bill proposals: partial BRIA
Accompanying partial business and regulatory impact assessment (BRIA) for 'Delivering Scotland's circular economy: proposals for legislation'.
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Rates relief for retailers
First Minister announces support for shops tackling throwaway culture.
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Single-use disposable cups: response to EPECOM recommendations
Our response to the first set of recommendations from the Expert Panel on Environmental Charging and Other Measures (EPECOM) on single-use disposable beverage cups, and details of actions that we will take to deliver them.
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Disposable cup charging
New legislation to help tackle reliance on single-use items.
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Scottish emissions of air pollutants 2017
An Official Statistics Publication for Scotland.
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Prevalence of CO2 from disused mineral mines and the implications for residential buildings: research
In 2017 the NHS Lothian Incident Management Team investigated reported cases of ill health affecting residents of a recently built local authority housing estate. This research is looking for similar incidents and considers implications for building standards.
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Cleaner Air for Scotland strategy: independent review
Conclusions and recommendations from the independent review of the Cleaner Air for Scotland strategy.
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Handling of waste: amendment to legislation: consultation
Consultation on extending the power of Scottish Ministers to direct the holder of a permit issued under the PPC Regulations 2012 to accept and keep, or accept and treat or dispose of, controlled waste at specified places and on specified terms.
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Deposit Return Scheme
Ambitious scheme design takes shape.
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Air Departure Tax reduction in Scotland: noise impact assessment
Potential impact on noise levels of our plans to reduce the overall burden of Air Departure Tax (ADT) by 50%.
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Environmental principles and governance after Brexit: consultation
We are seeking to gather evidence on future arrangements for the application of EU environmental principles and for environmental governance in Scotland, in the event that the UK exits the EU.
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Chemicals: registration, evaluation, authorisation and restriction - notification to the Scottish Parliament
Notification about deficiencies in legislation due to EU exit in the event of a 'no deal' scenario, and proposed amendments to ensure the law continues to operate.
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Waste (miscellaneous issues 2): notification to the Scottish Parliament
Notification about deficiencies in legislation due to EU exit in the event of a 'no deal' scenario, and proposed amendments to ensure the law continues to operate.
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National low emission framework
Methodology for local authorities to undertake air quality assessment through the National Low Emission Framework (NLEF) to inform decisions on transport-related actions.
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Tackling air pollution
Review of Clean Air for Scotland announced.
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Draft noise action plans: consultation
The European Noise Directive (END) was adopted in 2004 and requires member states to bring about measures which are intended to avoid, prevent or reduce noise on a prioritised area basis.
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Ban of plastic-stemmed cotton buds: consultation response
Summary of responses to the Scottish Government's proposal to ban the manufacture and sale of plastic-stemmed cotton buds.
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Ban on manufacture and sale of plastic-stemmed cotton buds: proposal
A consultation to gather views from stakeholders on the introduction of a ban on the manufacture and sale of plastic-stemmed cotton buds in Scotland.
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Cleaner Air for Scotland
New members help to strengthen governance group
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Responses to Low Emission Zone (LEZ) consultation now analysed
The analysis of responses to Transport Scotland’s consultation “Building Scotland’s Low Emission Zones’ has now been published.
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Air quality: minister's statement
Cabinet Secretary for Environment Roseanna Cunningham addresses the Scottish Parliament on the issue of air quality and low-emission zones.
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Air quality: legislation
A list of all legislation relating to air quality in Scotland.
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