We work to create better places for people and wildlife, and support sustainable development. We were established in 1996 to protect and improve the environment. 

Responsibilities

Within England we’re responsible for:

• regulating major industry and waste

• treatment of contaminated land

• water quality and resources

• fisheries

• inland river, estuary and harbour navigations

• conservation and ecology

We are also responsible for managing the risk of flooding from main rivers, reservoirs, estuaries and the sea.

Lead local flood authorities (LLFAs) are responsible for managing the risk of flooding from surface water, groundwater and ordinary watercourses and lead on community recovery.

More detail about who is responsible for managing flood risks.

Priorities

Our priorities are to:

• work with businesses and other organisations to manage the use of resources

• increase the resilience of people, property and businesses to the risks of flooding and coastal erosion

• protect and improving water, land and biodiversity

• improve the way we work as a regulator to protect people and the environment and support sustainable growth

Read more about Environment Agency: EA2025 creating a better place

Regional flood and coastal committees

The RFCCs were set up by the Environment Agency under the Flood and Water Management Act 2010. They bring together members appointed by LLFAs and independent members with relevant experience for 3 purposes:

• to ensure there are coherent plans for identifying, communicating and managing flood and coastal erosion risks across catchments and shorelines

• to encourage efficient, targeted and risk-based investment in flood and coastal erosion risk management that represents value for money and benefits local communities

• to provide a link between the Environment Agency, LLFAs, other risk management authorities, and other relevant bodies to build understanding of flood and coastal erosion risks in its area