In order to achieve integrated prevention and control of industrial pollution (IPPC) arising from a wide range of industrial and agricultural activities, the Directive 96/61/EC has been adopted. The Directive lays down requirements for EU Member States to issue operating permits for the industrial installations listed in the Annex I of the Directive. Conditions of the permit shall be based on best available techniques (BAT).
All three Baltic States have transposed the requirements of the IPPC Directive into national legislation. The key constraint is related to practical implementation and enforcement. It is a challenge for national authorities, regional environmental inspections controlling the compliance with requirements. The most difficult part for all countries is application of BAT principle and correct understanding and use of Best Available Techniques Reference documents (BREFs).
Awareness raising on BATs, BREFs, experience exchange on implementation and enforcement measures essential for successful implementation of the IPPC Directive. Due to receiving a high priority and interest in the Baltic States, implementation and enforcement of the Directive is a frequent issue on the BEF agenda.
