Draft Environment Audit Rules 2025

The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) has issued the Draft Environment Audit Rules, 2025 under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986. These draft rules propose a proper system for environment audits to check if projects, industries, and activities are following environmental laws like the Air Act, Water Act, Wildlife Protection Act, and Forest Conservation rules.

The draft notification states that Registered Environment Auditors will conduct audits, collect samples, check pollution control systems, and prepare reports. They will also verify compliance for Green Credit Rules 2023, Ecomark Rules 2024, waste management rules, and Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) projects.

A proposed body called the Environment Audit Designated Agency (EADA) will certify, register, and monitor auditors. Auditors must remain independent, follow a strict code of conduct, and avoid conflicts of interest. Registration will be valid for five years, with renewal possible.

The draft rules also provide for a Steering Committee under MoEFCC and CPCB to monitor implementation. In case of disputes, government officers’ reports will have final authority. The aim is to promote compliance, reduce pollution, support climate action, ESG goals, green credit, and sustainable development.