Germany plans tougher penalties for environmental crimes
Published on April 29, 2026.
Germany's Cabinet is set to approve a draft reform that includes stricter sentences for offences causing severe environmental damage, such as intentional acts such as an oil spill. The draft also increases maximum fines for companies guilty of environmental violations. To combat these crimes, prosecutors will be allowed to use covert measures such as telecommunications surveillance. The government also plans to tighten rules on air pollution offences.
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