Environmental health is the branch of public health that is concerned with all aspects of the natural and built environment that may affect human health. It is concerned with protecting residents, traders and visitors health, safety and environment including the
air they breathe, the
food they buy and their
safety in the workplace, as well as helping businesses to succeed. We ensure that
pests,
odour and
noise nuisances are controlled.
Where possible we bring about behavioural change through education and advisory means, but where necessary and in line with our Enforcement Policy, we use the legislative powers to ensure compliance. Some of our work is required by statute, some intelligence led and we work jointly with many partners, both from within and outside the Council, to maximise efficiency and to bring about shared outcomes and positive impacts for the St Albans District.
Pollution
Pollution comes in many forms. It can cause bad health effects and damage to the environment. The legislation regulating pollution is varied and complex. These pages outline the ways that we can investigate and help with pollution incidents, offer advice to householders and businesses, and regulate polluting activities.
Types of pollution
Pollution comes in many guises:
- air pollution
- air quality
- land pollution
- water pollution
- noise pollution
- light pollution
Additionally, certain industrial processes require Permits to operate and are separately regulated by the Council under the title of Environmental Permitting. The activities, installations and plants that require Permits are listed in Schedule 1 of the Environmental Permitting (England and Wales) Regulations 2007.
In this section
Air Pollution (including Environmental Permitting)
Contaminated Land and Land pollution
Noise
Water pollution
Food safety