Directive 2003/4/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 28 January 2003 on public access to environmental information and repealing Council Directive 90/313/EEC

The directive aims to guarantee the right of access to environmental information held by or for public authorities. It defines "environmental information" broadly, encompassing various aspects such as the state of the environment, factors affecting it, measures, reports on environmental legislation implementation, economic analyses, and information related to human health and safety. The directive outlines procedures for access to environmental information upon request, specifying timeframes for response and conditions for refusals. It also addresses exceptions to information disclosure, such as in cases of confidentiality, international relations, public security and protection of personal data. The text emphasises the importance of dissemination of environmental information by public authorities, including through electronic means. Additionally, it covers aspects like charges for information, access to justice in case of denied requests and the quality of environmental information.

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