Impact of EU environmental law on corporate governance: analysis of case-law concerning liability measures

Abstract

In 21st century, the growing need for environmental caution and influence of climate change can be regarded as couple of main objectives pursued by the European Union. Consequently, to fulfill these objectives, legislative framework must be developed to regulate all economic entities. Thus, when a business operates in a field that is influential to the environment with the possibility of environmental threats, certain labilities may apply if laws are not correctly implemented. This thesis examines the possibilities for issues such legislation, specifically Environmental Liability Directive and Climate Change laws, may create by analyzing case-law of the European Union - to create harmonization between environmental policy as well as economic growth. To understand the impact legislation has on undertakings, corporate governance and other business management measures as Business Continuity Management and Corporate Social Responsibility must be analyzed in the context of environmental policy. Consequently, conclusions are based on analysis combining legislation, examination of case-law as well as corporate management measures