EU Proposes Mandatory Inspections.(European Union)(Brief Article)(Statistical Data Included)

THE EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT IS CALLING FOR MEMBER NATIONS TO implement a mandatory environmental inspection program for major industrial facilities, including chemical plants. The proposed directive would require each nation to implement standardized inspections defined by the European Union to ensure that the 15 EU nations are meeting environmental targets.

The parliament recently voted to reject a voluntary standardized inspection process proposed by the European Commission. Parliament argues that a voluntary enforcement program would not guarantee compliance with EU targets or allow EU officials to effectively monitor member nations' progress. The mandatory process …