Catalogue description Records of the Royal Commission on Environmental Pollution

The Royal Commission on Environmental Pollution was established as a standing body by Royal Warrant in February 1970 with the following terms of reference: 'To advise on matters, both national and international, concerning the pollution of the environment; on the adequacy of research in this field; and the future possibilities of danger to the environment.'

The Commission took a broad view of what is meant by 'pollution'. It considered it to cover the introduction by people into the environment of substances or energy liable to cause hazards to human health, harm to living resources and ecological systems, damages to structures or amenity, or interference with legitimate uses of the environment. Within this remit the Commission had freedom to consider and advise on any matter it chose; the Government could also request the Commission to consider particular topics.

Members of the Commission were appointed by the Queen on the advice of the Prime Minister and were drawn from a variety of backgrounds, including the academic world, industry and public life. They served as individuals and not as representatives of organisations or professions.

The Commission made known the findings of its studies by way of published reports. It did not obtain prior approval from the Government of its findings and recommendations. The reports were submitted to the Queen and, by Her command, presented to Parliament.

The Commission was closed in March 2011.