1. Legal ComplianceIn the last twenty years, there has been a dramatic increase in statutory law, much based on European Directives. In 1998 in the UK, the Environment Agency issues 312 Enforcement and prohibition Notices. A total of 774 fines were imposed netting over £2 million, averaging over £2500 per fine. The EA's "hall of Shame" lists several waste companies, saying that three of the worst offenders should all have been aware of pollution laws, as they are meant to clean up the environment. | Recent laws are based on the 'polluter pays' principle. This means that companies can also be required to pay for the clean-up of any detrimental affect they have caused. The costs of clean-up often outweigh the cost of fines and may take several years to complete. There are also several directors serving prison sentences. Sentences are often greater than for health and safety offences.
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