A new national Environmental Code took effect in 1999 to ensure that energy and other natural resources are used more efficiently; that production materials are reused or recycled; that social, economic and technical development is directed toward resource- and energy-saving products and methods; and that biological diversity is safeguarded through the preservation of, or sustainable management of, valuable natural habitats and environments.
Further, the Polluter Pays Principle (PPP), enacted by the Government, states that whoever causes damage to the environment is responsible to remedy the situation. Penalties for breaking the law have also been tightened under the new Environmental Code. It is possible to charge a person or company for "causing harm to the environment", as well as for "negligence". In the event of harm to life or property caused by polluted air, soil or water, or by noise, vibration and the like, the victims may seek compensation for damages.
As a consequence of the increasing environmental awareness at all levels within Swedish society, the environmental technology sector has developed and grown substantially. To learn more about Swedish environmental technology solutions, visit the> Swedish Trade Council's Environmental Technology Network.
Swedish forestry industry, including the pulp and paper industry, is one big industry sector at the fore front internationally in terms of progressive, environmentally friendly production methods. The six largest corporations are all FSC certified. To read more, see the> Pulp and Paper Industry section
For more information about environmental policy in Sweden and the European Union, please visit the websites to the right.