miljöbalken

Miljöbalken, Swedish Environmental Code, is the central framework for environmental law in Sweden. Adopted by the Riksdag in 1998 and entering into force in 1999, with ongoing amendments. It combines several fields: protection of the environment, nature conservation, and use of land and water.

It establishes general objectives and principles, including sustainable development, precaution, and the polluter pays principle. Its aim is to prevent harm to health and the environment and to promote sustainable production and consumption. It requires environmental impact assessments for certain activities and sets rules for permits and licensing for activities that could affect the environment, as well as prohibitions on harmful emissions and waste mismanagement.

The code covers various topics: pollution control, nature conservation, water, air, soil, chemicals, waste, and noise; it includes requirements for information disclosure and public participation during permit processes. It assigns responsibility to competent authorities, such as the Swedish Environmental Protection Agency (Naturvårdsverket), the County Administrative Boards, and municipalities, for supervision, enforcement, and administrative penalties. Violations can lead to administrative sanctions or criminal penalties.

The Miljöbalken integrates with European Union environmental law, implementing EU directives and providing a framework for Sweden's environmental policy. It is complemented by other sectoral laws and regulations.

The code is amended periodically to reflect scientific developments and policy priorities.