Can mandatory disclosure help to reduce industrial pollution? Assessing stakeholder use of the European Pollutant Release and Transfer Register in Germany.

Abstract: Industrial pollution abatement is key to accomplishing sustainability goals. Mandatory disclosure of pollution data, e.g. through the European Pollutant Release and Transfer Register (E-PRTR), promises reducing pollution through public pressure from stakeholders, such as NGOs, the media, and investors. This study surveys stakeholder use of the E-PRTR in Germany, using an analysis of press coverage, expert interviews, desk research and data analysis. Results indicate that use and coverage of the E-PRTR, due to limits in design and scope, have been limited to few experts and press articles, covering specific issues, such as coal power. Potential stock-price effects are limited, too. Relying on voluntary action by companies is a less promising civil society approach to industrial pollution abatement than influencing standard- setting. The E-PRTR plays a complementary tool in this. It can become more effective if suggested improvements are implemented.