Laws and regulations in Sweden

When it comes to setting emission limits in Sweden, there are several important regulatory frameworks to consider. These include national legislation such as the Environmental Code, the Water Directive, local regulations, international and national standards, and industry-specific rules. By adhering to these regulations, the project is not only compliant with current laws in Sweden, but is also environmentally sustainable and safe.

The Environmental Code (1998:808)

The Environmental Code (1998:808) is Sweden’s comprehensive environmental legislation and regulates the use of land, water, and natural resources. It consists of 33 chapters and requires the application of precautionary measures, appropriate expertise, Best Available Technology (BAT), and continuous self‑monitoring by operators.

Environmental Quality Standards (EQS)

The Environmental Code contains provisions on environmental quality standards that must be followed to protect the environment and human health. These standards set limits for various pollutants in water.

Chapter 9 (Environmentally Hazardous Activities)

Regulates the discharge of pollutants into soil, water, and air. Requirements are set to minimize emissions and take protective measures.

The Water Management Ordinance (2004:660)

The EU Water Framework Directive (2006/60/EC) is an ordinance that implements the EU Water Directive into Swedish legislation. The directive aims to achieve good ecological status in all EU water bodies. Regional water authorities develop management plans and action programs to achieve environmental goals.

The Ordinance (1998:899) on Environmentally Hazardous Activities and Health Protection

This ordinance contains specific provisions for managing emissions from environmentally hazardous activities, including requirements for treatment and control of emissions to water.

Local Regulations and Provisions in Sweden

Municipalities in Sweden may have their own regulations that complement national legislation. These may include specific emission limits and treatment requirements and are compiled on each municipality’s website.

EU Water Framework Directive

The EU Water Framework Directive, adopted in 2000, aims to protect and improve the quality of all water resources within the EU. Under the directive, Member States are required to take measures to ensure that all water bodies achieve “good status” by 2027. This includes reducing pollution, improving water quality, and ensuring sustainable water use.

The directive also mandates that all point and diffuse sources of pollution affecting water quality must be regulated and controlled through effective treatment methods and environmental legislation. It promotes integrated water resource management and encourages EU Member States to develop and implement action programs to achieve long-term sustainability in water use and protection.

The Water Framework Directive is complemented by several so-called “daughter directives” that specify how its objectives should be achieved. These include the Environmental Quality Standards Directive (2008/105/EC), which sets limit values for priority substances in surface waters, and the Groundwater Directive (2006/118/EC), which aims to protect groundwater from pollution and deterioration. These directives form the basis for the environmental quality standards applied in Sweden.

Read more here: https://swehydro.com/water-framework-directive/

Industrial Emissions Directive

In addition to the EU Water Directives, the Industrial Emissions Directive (IED) also applies. This directive covers emissions from industrial activities and includes requirements for the treatment of process water.

Read more here: https://swehydro.com/industrial-emissions-directive/

Regulations and guidelines from the Swedish Environmental Protection Agency

The Swedish Environmental Protection Agency (Naturvårdsverket) issues regulations that set specific environmental protection requirements, including those related to water treatment and emissions control. The agency also publishes guidelines that provide practical support and detailed instructions on how various environmental requirements should be met by operators.

Industry-specific regulations

Certain industries are subject to specific guidelines and requirements for water management and emissions. For example, the mining industry may have particular rules for handling process water and wastewater.

Supervisory authorities

County Administrative Boards (Länsstyrelser) are responsible for regional supervision and ensure compliance with national and EU environmental regulations. Municipalities are responsible for local supervision and monitoring of environmental impacts from activities within their geographical areas.

The role of the Water Authorities

Sweden is divided into five river basin districts, each managed by a designated water authority. These authorities are tasked with coordinating efforts to achieve good water status in accordance with the EU Water Framework Directive. They establish environmental quality standards (EQS) for water bodies, develop action programs and management plans, and provide guidance to other authorities and operators.