This key piece of legislation paved the way for all further environmental legislation in the UK. Written in 1990 and amended in 1995, it deals with how the environment is protected and regulated in our daily lives. It also provides the main statutory framework of waste management. In particular, the document:

- Defines the concept of ?waste?
- Outlines the roles and functions of the waste collection & disposal
  authorities
- Establishes criminal offences and penalties in relation to waste
- Explains the waste management licensing system
- Establishes the statutory duty of care in relation to waste

One of the main achievements of the EPA 1990 is the introduction of the Duty of Care Act in Section 34, described in this website.


Full text available on: http://www.opsi.gov.uk/acts/acts1990/Ukpga_19900043_en_1.htm