The definition of environmental monitoring. A Legislative Approach. Part I

Environmental monitoring, together with environmental assessment, and inspection, is one of the most used methods in environmental protection, in terms of pollution prevention and the subsequent evaluation of the effects of the actions taken. Environmental monitoring actions can be carried out by entities whose activities have a potential impact on the environment, as well as by state institutions with duties and responsibilities in this regard. The first part of this study aims to highlight the gaps in the definition of environmental monitoring, both from a legislative perspective and from the perspective of its delimitation from environmental review, analysis, or inspection.