Scottish strategic issues

Sarah Hendry focuses on various Scottish strategic issues concerning waste, guidance on radioactive contaminated land, clean vehicles, Scottish environmental and rural services, management of wildlife, environmental impact assessment, and the government's environmental performance. A short report has also been produced for the Scottish Government by the Sustainable Development Commission on the potential for energy from waste. The government is consulting on the transposition of Directive 2009/33/EC on energy efficient vehicles. This is a public procurement directive, applying to contracting authorities, contracting entities and some public passenger transport services. Waste is slightly reduced and recycling figures are an impressive 73%. Some other minor reforms are proposed including a review of the statutory consultees for EIA. Whilst adjoining planning authorities, Scottish Natural Heritage, SEPA and the ministers will remain consultees for relevant applications, the role of the Health and Safety Executive and Scottish Water may be reduced.