1. IED Directive: context of emergence

1.1 Context

In order to protect the environment, the 1970s were a golden era for the deployment of legislation, applied in particular to industrial activities. The 200 pieces of European legislation passed during this decade focused on limiting pollution at the end of the production chain, by introducing minimum standards. However, this approach was not sufficient to guarantee long-term protection of natural resources and natural and cultural heritage. In addition, regulatory developments such as Directive 76/646/EEC on pollution caused by certain dangerous substances discharged into the aquatic environment and Directive 84/360/EEC on air pollution control introduced prior authorization requirements for the operation of industrial plants. This process is clearly distinct from the...