The Pakistan Environmental Protection Act, 1997 (Act No. XXXIV of 1997) provides the legal framework for the protection, conservation, rehabilitation and improvement of the environment in Pakistan. It also addresses pollution prevention and control and promotes sustainable development.
Key Provisions of the Act
Section 11 – National Environmental Quality Standards (NEQS)
Prohibition of certain discharges and emissions exceeding the National Environmental Quality Standards (NEQS)
Section 12 – IEE and EIA
Projects covered by the Act are subject to the Initial Environmental Examination or Environmental Impact Assessment requirements before construction or operation. The section also provides for public participation in the environmental assessment process.
Section 13 & 14 – Hazardous Waste and Substances
Section 13 addresses the import of hazardous waste, while Section 14 deals with the handling of hazardous substances through licensing and other applicable legal requirements.
Section 15 – Motor Vehicle Pollution
The Act provides for measures to control pollution from motor vehicles.
