Integrated Environmental Quality Management Law (GICA) in Andalusia, Spain

The Integrated Environmental Quality Management Law (GICA), also known as Law 7/2007, was enacted in Andalusia, Spain. Its primary objective is to establish a regulatory framework for integrated environmental quality management, based on the principles of sustainable development and the protection of citizens’ rights.

Let’s delve into some key details about this law:

Sustainable Development:

The GICA aims to address the three dimensions of sustainable development: environmental, social, and economic. It goes beyond the original sector-specific norms for environmental protection, which are considered insufficient in today’s context.

Environmental Prevention Instruments:

The law introduces several environmental prevention instruments applicable to actions that may impact the Andalusian environment. Some of these instruments include:

• Integrated Environmental Authorization (AAI).

• Unified Environmental Authorization (AAU).

• Environmental Qualification.

• Strategic Environmental Assessment of plans and programs.

• Strategic Environmental Assessment of urban planning instruments.

Normative Framework:

The GICA provides a normative framework for the development of environmental policy in Andalusia concerning quality and environmental protection.

Shared Responsibility:

The law emphasizes the need for coordinated shared responsibility among citizens, economic agents, and public authorities to achieve sustainability and efficient use of natural resources.

In summary, the GICA represents a significant step toward sustainable environmental management in Andalusia, promoting environmental protection and enhancing people’s quality of life.

For further details, you can refer to the full text of the law in the Official State Gazette (BOE).