From legislation to implementation? : Understanding the implementation deficiency of the general rules of consideration, the Swedish Environmental Code (2000:61)

Abstract: The Environmental Code is a central environmental policy instrument, which contributes to achieve Sweden’s national environmental objectives. Therefore, the implementation of the rules and regulations of the Environmental Code are of importance. This thesis focuses on the identified research gap in the implementation of the general rules of consideration in the Environmental Code, adopting a Swedish perspective and seeking to understand the reasons why. This thesis intends to increase the understanding of both external and internal aspects affecting the implementation at a municipal level. The results show that the implementation deficiency in the general rules of consideration consists of several complex, interconnected factors. The findings implicate three fundamental aspects affecting the implementation: prerequisites, work procedures and interpretations of the general rules of consideration. Furthermore, the implementation requires an improved understanding among concerned stakeholders. This thesis argues that there is a shortage of knowledge and understanding of the general rules of consideration among stakeholders, therefore there is much more to learn, in order to reduce the implementation deficiency of the rules. Additionally, the findings indicate a need for exemplified guidance from state authorities and government agencies, to reduce the knowledge gap among municipalities and operators. Furthermore, operators ought to increase the understanding of the general rules of consideration, to contribute to the implementation of the general rules of consideration.