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Three quick answers on environmental inspections from the Director General

During spring, Swedac's Director General, Peter Strömbäck, participated in a number of conferences to discuss environmental supervision. What position has Swedac adopted, and how can accreditation contribute to simpler and more efficient environmental supervision? Peter Strömbäck explains.

Why is environmental inspection currently in focus?

– The Government has appointed a special investigator to review the environmental supervision in Sweden, and who will in Junepresent proposals on how the inspections can be more uniform and effective. The ambition is to present proposals which contribute to achieving the environmental quality objectives, and that more environmental violations will be identified, investigated and prosecuted.

Why is this relevant to Swedac?

– Swedac is already active in the area and sees great potential for development. We have had dialogue with the investigator and during the first quarter of 2017, we participated in conferences that highlighted issues related to environmental inspection. We know that there are areas where there is a lack of inspection or in some cases none at all. Our focus is on contributing with knowledge and discussion on possible ways forward.

How can Swedac contribute?

– Accreditation provides an opportunity that can be used to facilitate and streamline, but there are various ways to improve environmental inspection in Sweden. At this stage it’s a case of collaboration, so that we can jointly develop improved inspection opportunities and create increased environmental benefits.