Evaluation of the Implementation of the Environmental Principles Policy Statement.

This report synthesises insights from government departments and an arm’s length body on the early implementation of the duty on Ministers of the Crown to have due regard to the Environmental Principles Policy Statement (‘the EPPS duty’) - as introduced under Section 19 of the Environment Act 2021. 

Drawing on a programme of engagement which included interviews with policy and legal professionals across 10 departments, and document reviews, the research aimed to understand how departments have prepared for and responded to the EPPS duty in policymaking. The report presents findings across key themes including awareness-raising, departmental processes, training and guidance, ministerial engagement, and the interpretation of the five environmental principles. It offers insight into where further support, clearer guidance, and shared learning could strengthen the application of the EPPS and its role in promoting environmental protection and sustainable development.

Disclaimer: Risk & Policy Analysts Ltd (RPA) were commissioned by the Office for Environmental Protection to undertake an evaluation of the implementation of the Environmental Principles Policy Statement. The views provided in this report are those of RPA and do not represent the opinion or position of the OEP. Some of the analysis in this report was used to inform the OEP’s environmental law report on the Environmental Principles Policy Statement, which was laid before Parliament on 27 February 2025.