Pakistan: Environmental Protection Act (PEPA)

The most significant environmental legislation in Pakistan, it requires industrial facilities to restrict their air emissions and effluents to the limits specified in the National Environmental Quality Standards and establishes the penalties for noncompliance. It also outlines the institutional framework for environmental protection in Pakistan, including creating the Environmental Protection Agency, responsible for ensuring compliance with the rules, standards and regulations set forth in this and subsequent environmental legislation. It is charged with the promtion of R&D, environmental education, and encouraging the development of NGOs to bolster governmental activities. It may provide fiscal incentives, awards, tax exemptions, allowances, or subsidies for the promotion of environmental or efficient activities, equipment or processes. The legislation also establishes Provincial Sustainable Development Funds, oulines the duties and authority of the Provincial Environmental Protection Agencies and requires Environmental Impact Assessments for public and private projects.

Date Implemented: 1997

Status: In Force; Framework Policy

References: National Communication to the UNFCCC

http://www.elaw.org/assets/pdf/Law%2DPEPA%2D1997.pdf