Legal and regulatory framework of environmental initiatives in the Czech Republic as a potential model for green policy implementation in Eastern Europe

Abstract

EU countries, in particular the Czech Republic, are developing structural mechanisms to influence the development of their economic model in the environmental sphere. The study of the Czech Republic’s experience in implementing environmental reforms is relevant for understanding their impact on the country’s economic sustainability and fulfilment of international obligations. The purpose of the study was to analyse the regulatory framework and results of the reforms implemented in the environmental policy of the Czech Republic and their impact on the country’s further development. The results were obtained using special legal methods, such as terminological, formal legal and special legal methods. Identification of the main environmental problems, reformed economic sectors and the intensity of human activity’s impact on nature, determination of stakeholders in the changes and identification of the problems solved allowed us to conclude that the measures taken were rational and varied in their effectiveness. The analysis of the environmental and regulatory framework of environmental policy in the Czech Republic and the adopted environmental legislation, such as CO2 emission quotas, rational use of natural raw materials, waste management, green taxes, benefits and subsidies for the functioning of markets for environmental goods and services, showed the undeniable advantages of an environmentally oriented economic model over the one focused on profit. The study found that the application of such measures helps to reduce the negative impact on the environment, improve the quality of life of the population and ensure sustainable economic development. Incentives for companies that implement environmentally friendly technologies stimulate innovation and reduce production costs. Legislation plays a significant role in this, in particular, the Law of the Czech Republic No. 165/2012 Sb. The results of the study can be used by researchers from around the world who study the implementation of new methods of environmental policy

Keywords

• greening
• energy saving
• sustainable development
• integrated approach
• pollutants
• green energy