On 27th February 2024, the European Parliament adopted legislation on the protection of the environment through criminal law, replacing Directive 2008/99/EC.
The directive includes an updated list of environmental crimes, to which have been added trafficking in illegally harvested timber, depletion of water resources, serious violations of EU chemical regulations and pollution caused by ships.
Environmental offenses committed by individuals and company representatives will be punishable by imprisonment – up to 10 years. Fines can reach up to 5 percent of turnover or up to EUR 40 million.
Should you have any questions, please contact Sebastian Kita (skita@cmwlegal.pl).