Overview

This bill establishes an Airport Environment Watchdog to monitor and report on the environmental impact of airports in England and Wales. The watchdog will investigate complaints, make recommendations, and potentially impose fines on airports that fail to adequately address environmental concerns.

Description

The bill creates a new body, the Airport Environment Watchdog, appointed by the Secretary of State. Its main duty is to monitor the environmental impact of all airports in England and Wales, focusing on noise, air and atmospheric pollution. This includes reviewing airport procedures for environmental management and ensuring public access to environmental impact information.

The Watchdog will produce an annual report covering the environmental impact of airports, the adequacy of their procedures, and the effectiveness of communication to the public. It can also investigate specific complaints and issue recommendations. Failure by airport owners to comply with recommendations may result in fines.

The bill defines "environmental impact" to include noise levels, air pollution (including nitrogen oxides, particulate matter, and carbon monoxide), and atmospheric pollution (carbon dioxide emissions). Airport owners are required to provide the Watchdog with necessary information.

Government Spending

The bill states that expenses of the Secretary of State incurred under the Act will be paid from money provided by Parliament. No specific figures are provided in the bill itself.

Groups Affected

• Airports and Airport Owners: Will be subject to monitoring, investigations, and potential fines for non-compliance with recommendations.
• Local Communities near Airports: May benefit from improved environmental monitoring and the potential for reduced pollution and noise.
• Environmental Organizations: May have a new avenue for raising concerns and influencing airport environmental practices.
• Government (Secretary of State): Responsible for appointing the Watchdog and responding to its annual reports.

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