EA chief regulator calls for simpler and more flexible regulation
“Regulation must be based on a progressive framework that is flexible, coherent and proportionate. A framework that allows us to decide the level of intervention required as the risk and our understanding of the risk change.”
That’s according to Jo Nettleton, the Environment Agency’s first chief regulator, who called for regulatory reform in the watchdog’s first ever Chief regulator’s report, which replaces the Regulating for people, the environment and growth reports from previous years.
Nettleton noted: “The UK is one of the most nature depleted countries in the world and water pollution, air quality, waste management and climate change are still challenges. At the same time, we need to support net zero ambition, the move to a more circular economy and sustainable economic growth. Much of our regulatory framework dates from the last century.”
She said legislative change was needed to “make the regulatory framework simpler, more coherent, flexible and agile” and that “sufficient funding and investment at both policy and implementation levels” are required to fund improvements.
Moreover: “It is vital that the planning system and permitting system work together effectively. We need to make sure regulated activities are built in the right places that both support local communities and growth, but also protect and enhance nature and public health. This sometimes means there are difficult decisions. Early engagement would enable us to support finding solutions, provide advice on spatial planning, and line up permitting resources to prevent delays.”
Within the Agency, Nettleton said transforming regulation would require: information and understanding, using horizon scanning and data; new tools, skillsets and ways of working; and further digitalisation.
Nettleton took up post on 1 April 2024. Her report said her role is threefold:
Leading the profession – building and advocating for the Environment Agency’s regulatory profession, guiding and representing the Environment Agency’s team of regulators.
Setting the standards – defining the Environment Agency’s regulatory strategy and standards, developing assurance and evaluation frameworks to support high-quality regulation.
Designing the future – fostering innovation and adaptability by drawing on external insights to evolve regulatory approaches.
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