What is an environmental permit?

Environmental permit is a permit issued by an authority that enables a certain activity to be carried out in a certain area. An environmental permit is an important tool to ensure the state of the environment and the sustainable use of natural resources. The granting of the permit is based on the Environmental Protection Act and its purpose is to ensure that the operation does not cause harm to the environment or health.

Environmental permit can concern, for example, industrial production, waste management, energy production or land use. The authority granting the permit assesses the effects of the activity on the environment and sets the necessary conditions and restrictions for carrying out the activity. Compliance with these conditions is monitored regularly, and the validity period of the permit is usually limited.

Environmental permit is an important part of the environmental protection system and it aims to promote sustainable development and preserve the state of the environment. Applying for and granting a permit can be complicated and often requires expertise and explanations of the effects of operations on the environment.

Sources: Ympäristö.fi, ELY-keskus