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ARTICLE · 26 FEBRUARY 2026

Improving Enforcement Of Environmental Sanctions In England And Wales

Gowling WLG
Gowling WLG
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White Papers, consultations, reports, updates – all pointing towards increased accountability, along with guidance on the implementation of sanctions and their enforcement when environment...

United KingdomEnvironment
Andrew Litchfield
Andrew Litchfield
Natalie Barton-Howes
Natalie Barton-Howes
Teresa Edwards
Teresa Edwards
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White Papers, consultations, reports, updates – all pointing towards increased accountability, along with guidance on the implementation of sanctions and their enforcement when environment policies are breached. The last six months have shown positive moves by the Government to find ways to make enforcement of environmental law easier, quicker and more effective.

In this article, we highlight some of the key reforms shaping the future of environmental compliance and outline what organisations need to know.

1. A new vision for water – Defra's white paper

A key area of focus to improve compliance with environmental policies and regulations is the water sector. On 20 January 2026 the Government published its white paper - A New Vision for Water – describing it as a once in a generation plan to transform the water system in England and Wales and the most ambitious overhaul of the UK water sector since privatisation.

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