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What is environmental information?

The Environmental Information Regulations 2004 (EIR) provides public access to environmental information held by public authorities.

  • The state of the elements of the environment, such as air, water, soil and land.
  • Substances such as energy, noise, radiation or waste.
  • Measures and activities such as policies, plans and agreements affecting or likely to affect the state of the elements of the environment.
  • Reports, cost-benefit and economic analyses on the implementation of environmental legislation.
  • The state of human health and safety and contamination of the food chain.

How to make an environmental information request

The quickest and easiest way to make a freedom of information request is using our online form. However, you are also able to make a request by email.

Please provide a clear description of the information you require and include your name and email address for us to send the response to.

We will acknowledge your request upon receipt and send a response within 20 working days.

We may refuse your request for information if:

  • The information is already publicly available
  • The request is unreasonable or would take an excessive amount of officer time
  • Exemptions under the Regulations apply

Right to review

If you are not satisfied with our response, you can request an internal review. If following the review you remain unhappy with the outcome, you can apply directly to the Information Commissioner Office for a decision.