Since 2004, PEER has examined Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) files to assess pollution enforcement. In a state heavily reliant on its natural beauty for tourism revenue, it has fallen far short of acceptable pollution levels primarily in its waterways and wastewater management.
Despite pledges to strengthen pollution enforcement, Florida state records show declines in virtually all meaningful measures. Notably, violations and significant noncompliance with pollution limits are growing while major enforcement actions are declining.
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2022 | Report on Enforcement Efforts by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection
Since 2004, PEER has examined Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) data to assess state trends in pollution enforcement.
Despite a population bloom and a proliferation of toxic algae blooms, sewer overflows, and the die-off manatees in Florida waters, state records show Florida’s environmental enforcement actions are well below historical averages and have declined significantly in the last two years of the DeSantis administration.
Florida DEP enforces a wide array of laws that protect the state’s environment and the health of its residents. These include laws that protect air resources from industrial pollution, laws that protect the quality of Florida’s water, rivers, lakes, estuaries, and wetlands, and preservation of the state’s beach and dune systems, and laws that protect the environment from the improper handling and disposal of solid and hazardous wastes.
