In their statement, CIEEM highlights benefits such as protection of wildlife habitats and species, rigorous standards for pollution control, and the cleanliness of bathing beaches – all of which have been delivered because of EU legislation.
CIEEM points to the positive impact of the Natura 2000 network of protected areas and how this has contributed to creating a coherent and interconnected mechanism across the continent for the benefit of many species and habitats.
Interestingly, it is not just species and habitats that they believe will be affected by the lack of EU legislation; the uncertainty of appropriate legislation to be put in place if the United Kingdom were to leave the EU would also effect housing, construction and engineering, all of which interact with environmental legislation. CIEEM highlights that the interim period leaves ambiguity around the planning system which could result in a decrease in activity and investment in these sectors.
CIEEM’s full position on the EU Referendum offers an insightful statement on encouraging all those who are concerned with the natural environment to vote to remain a member of the EU.