Environmental crime, infringements and penal sanctions

This procedure aims to establish minimum rules on criminal offenses and penalties for activities that cause significant harm to the environment. By harmonizing laws across the EU, it ensures that environmental crimes are punished consistently, preventing companies or individuals from exploiting legal loopholes in different member states.

This affects businesses and individuals involved in activities that damage air, soil, water, or biodiversity. It introduces stricter penalties and new criminal offenses for serious environmental damage.