Commission Report 2002 (Hungary)

Chapter 22: Environment

The priority of transposing the acquis on packaging and packaging waste and control of major accident hazards involving dangerous substances has been met. The implementation of the acquis as regards air quality, also mentioned in the Action Plan, has been continued by ensuring air monitoring in accordance with the acquis, while no sufficient progress could be noted in the implementation of the management of municipal and hazardous waste, due to failure to adopt the National Waste Management Plan. Pollution reduction programmes on the discharge of dangerous substances in the aquatic environment still need to be established, as outlined in the Action Plan. The administrative capacity and co-ordination, in particular concerning the Environmental Inspectorates (both at the central and at the regional level, have been strengthened in accordance with the requirements of the Action Plan, but further sustained efforts are needed. The human resources of the competent authorities in the sector of chemicals have also been increased, as required by the Action Plan. The integration of environmental protection requirements into the definition and implementation of all other sectoral policies with a view to promoting sustainable development has continued. On industrial pollution control and risk management, progress has been limited with regard to implementation, especially in relation to integrated permitting. Thus, the priorities in the field of environment have been partially met. The implementation of the Action Plan is partially on track.