Industrial processes
Some industrial activities can release pollutants to air, land or water and may harm human health or the environment. Environmental permits control these activities by setting legally enforceable operating conditions that prevent or minimise environmental harm.
This system is called environmental permitting. Older permits and records may refer to Integrated Pollution Prevention and Control (IPPC) or Integrated Pollution Control (IPC).
If required by the Environmental Permitting (England and Wales) Regulations 2016, as amended, an operator must obtain the correct permit before starting a regulated activity. GOV.UK provides further guidance on environmental permits and how to apply.
Operating a prescribed activity without the required permit is an offence. The council and the Environment Agency regulate different types of installation and activity.