Council Framework Decision 2003/80/JHA on the protection of the environment through criminal law Country/Territory European Union Document type Legislation Date 2003 Source FAO, FAOLEX Original source Official Journal L 29, 5 February 2003, pp. 55-58 Subject Environment gen., Wild species & ecosystems, Waste & hazardous substances Keyword Protection of environment Offences/penalties Pollution control Hazardous substances Wild fauna Wild flora Geographical area European Union Countries Entry into force notes This Framework Decision took effect on 5 February 2003. Abstract Articles 1 and 2 of the present Decision define the conducts which shall be considered by Member States as criminal offences, either intentional or negligent, under their domestic legislation, with a view to encouraging the protection of the environment. Subsequently, such conducts shall be punishable by applying effective, proportionate and dissuasive penalties including, in most serious cases, deprivation of liberty (art. 5). Not only individuals, but also legal persons can be held liable for the criminal offences defined by articles 1 and 2. Article 7 determines the sanctions which shall be provided for by Member States to punish legal persons. Full text English Website europa.eu