A delay to the publication of a critical river health report and criticism of sampling methods have led observers to question whether DEFRA is obfuscating over the state of England’s water bodies and if the true picture is worse than currently thought. Rachel Salvidge investigates

Companies that pollute water bodies can be fined through the courts or offer voluntary enforcement undertakings to the environment agencies to avoid criminal sanctions. Here are seven of the biggest water penalties recorded in the ENDS Fines Monitor database

The number of bathing waters in England reaching the required water quality standard rose this year, with the majority being classified as ‘excellent’, according to Environment Agency figures

With the general election campaign now gearing up, the UK’s main parties are already unveiling eye-catching pledges to capitalise on the surge in public concern around climate change and environmental issues. Simon Pickstone investigates whether green issues are set to take centre stage

Since 2015, companies that commit certain offences under environmental permitting regulations have been able to offer voluntary enforcement undertakings (EUs) to the environment agencies to avoid criminal sanctions. Conor McGlone looks through some of the largest settlements

Since taking office, the US president has taken a chainsaw to environmental regulations. With parts of Boris Johnson’s cabinet keen to pursue a deregulatory agenda, is there a danger the UK could follow Trump’s lead after Brexit?

The landmark Environment Bill would make significant changes to laws relating to air quality, water resources, waste management, nature improvement and chemicals, and sets out how a new green watchdog would enforce environmental rules. Here’s what you need to know.