What is an AER?

Annual Environmental Reports (AER) summarise a company’s environmental performance over the year.

They are mandatory yearly submissions for Irish businesses holding industrial emissions licenses or other environmental permits.

A report typically includes:

• Environmental goals achieved and plans for further improvement
• Use of resources like power, water, and raw materials
• Overview of operations at the facility
• Summary of any environmental complaints or incidents
• Results from monitoring emissions (air, water, noise, odour, dust)
• Waste management details, including amounts recycled or disposed of
• For waste management sites, information about waste accepted and treated

Why are AERs needed?

Regulations such as the Industrial Emissions Directive (2010/75/EU) and Waste Framework Directive (2008/98/EC) make AERs mandatory in Ireland.

Failure to submit an AER can lead to:

• Fines and Penalties: Significant financial penalties imposed by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) or local authorities.
• Legal Action: Repeated non-compliance can result in court proceedings.
• License Suspension: Persistent breaches may also cause a company to lose its operating license.
• Operational Risks: Increased inspections or audits may disrupt operations.
• Reputational Damage: Non-compliance harms trust with stakeholders, customers, and local communities.

Who can benefit from help submitting AERs?

Submission of Annual Environmental Reports is required by all Irish businesses that hold any environmental permit or authorisation issued by the EPA.

AER submissions are often required in industries such as manufacturing, energy production, wastewater treatment, and more.

Any company that manages waste (with local authority or EPA licences) must also submit an AER.

Professional support with AER submissions allows companies stay focused on their business while experts handle the environmental reporting.