Environmental law

Environmental law is a broad field that covers different branches of law and has a real impact on the economy. Most of the provisions can be found in administrative law, with some important aspects being regulated also by civil law and criminal law. International and European regulations play an important role in shaping national legislation. 

Environmental laws are changing rapidly. The pursuit of a circular economy and the implementation of successive sustainable development goals mean that environmental law is beginning to apply to an increasing number of areas of our lives and business alike.  

Environmental issues affect almost every type of commercial activity, as well as everyday life. Some sectors of the economy – such as renewable energy and waste management industries – rely entirely on the regulations within this branch of law. Other entities also deal with environmental regulations when undertaking projects that require appropriate permits or other decisions.  Nowadays, environmental law is bound to affect almost any business. Therefore, it is worth having at your disposal the ongoing support of professionals with the necessary expertise. If a project is ill-prepared in environmental terms, this may have severe consequences – from fines and the investment being stopped to criminal penalties. Proper legal preparation in environmental terms is essential for the success of your undertaking. 

• We support waste collection, recycling and processing companies and waste recovery organizations – we played a part in establishing the Polish Chamber of Commerce for Environmental Protection (OIGOS), which brings together companies in these industries. 
• We represent Clients before public administration bodies such as environmental authorities and/or administrative courts, in various environment protection and waste management proceedings, for example in proceedings: 

1. concerning issuance of environmental decisions, such as environmental conditions and environmental authorization, including integrated permits,  
2. concerning imposition of product charges, 
3. concerning permission to cut down trees and bushes, 
4. to file notification concerning equipment and installations, 
5. in matters relating to the Waste Database, 
6. to obtain a valid interpretation of waste management provisions. 

• We represent Clients before common courts and arbitration courts, in civil cases concerning environmental damage, in proceedings to limit the use of real estate in connection with environmental protection and establishing areas of limited use, and in cases concerning defects and failures of technological lines for the recycling of electrical and electronic equipment. 
• We represent Clients in criminal proceedings, including in economic criminal law and in environmental crime cases, especially based on specific laws on waste management. 
• We provide comprehensive assistance in the investment process related to the acquisition, deployment and commissioning of installations for waste recovery or recycling. 
• We draft opinions on investment plans concerning renewable energy, including wind energy, in terms of their compliance with Polish law and EU law. 
• We monitor changes in environmental law, especially EU and international regulations. We help our Clients adapt their business to requirements that are due to enter into force in the near future and recommend the best solutions. 

The assistance of our environmental law experts will enable you to carry out various projects smoothly – from waste treatment and renewable energy activities, through the implementation of construction projects, to the lawful removal of trees from the property without risking the severe consequences of acting without the required permits.  

Clients may also seek our help to obtain compensation due to their rights to use real property being diminished due to environmental or nature conservation projects. They can also count on our support regarding damages for loss suffered due to the violation of environmental law by other entities.  

We approach and carefully examine each case individually. 

Nowadays, environmental law should be considered a potential element of any undertaking. Our professional support will enable the smooth implementation of your business goals in compliance with the applicable laws. 

• We offer a comprehensive and strategic approach. 
• We respond quickly and maintain ongoing contact. 
• We have an in-depth knowledge of the sectors governed by environmental law. 
• We provide integrated assistance in environmental matters and other legal aspects of your undertaking (such as real estate law, civil disputes, brand protection) – our Law Firm can provide a multi-disciplinary team of experts from various departments. 
• Our solutions are proven and effective.