What we are responsible for
The EPA is an independent public body established under the Environmental Protection Agency Act, 1992. The other main instruments from which we derive our mandate are the Waste Management Act, 1996, and the Protection of the Environment Act, 2003 and Radiological Protection (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2014.
The EPA is responsible for protecting and improving the environment as a valuable asset for the people of Ireland. We are committed to protecting people and the environment from the harmful effects of radiation and pollution.
The work of the EPA can be divided into three main areas:
- Regulation: Implementing regulation and environmental compliance systems to deliver good environmental outcomes and target those who don’t comply.
- Knowledge: Providing high quality, targeted and timely environmental data, information and assessment to inform decision making.
- Advocacy: Working with others to advocate for a clean, productive and well protected environment and for sustainable environmental practices.
Our responsibilities include:
- Licensing
- National Environmental Enforcement
- Waste Management and Chemicals in the Environment
- Water Management
- Climate Science & Climate Change
- Environmental Monitoring & Assessment
- Environmental Research and Development
- Radiological Protection
- Guidance, Awareness Raising, and Accessible Information
- Partnership and networking
Learn more
Read our Memoranda of Understanding with other bodies we work with.
Check out the EPA Evidence Framework.
