InfoMil

The Knowledge Centre InfoMil is the primary source of information and best practices in matters of environmental legislation and policy in the Netherlands. Since its foundation in 1995, InfoMil has provided up-to-date, unbiased and practical information to policymakers and to those who implement and execute policy, such as licensing officers and inspectors. We operate as a central link between policy development and policy administration.

Internationally, InfoMil uses its extensive knowledge of European environmental policy to help organisations and countries find their way around European environmental legislation and policy. We aim to share our wealth of experience and documented knowledge to assist others wishing to implement European environmental policy. Ultimately, the goal is to strengthen relations between the Netherlands and its partners both inside and outside Europe.

Documentation and dissemination of information

InfoMil is the place where information about environmental legislation and policy is documented, analysed and disseminated. It is also a forum for the exchange of information and knowledge between policymakers from the Ministry of Infrastructure and the Environment and environmental authorities and services at provincial, regional and local levels.

Practical support for the implementation of environmental and spatial policies

InfoMil operates as a central link between policy and practice. It is our goal to contribute pragmatically and effectively to ensure the best possible implementation of policy. Often this is a complex process, because more and more policy areas impact on the environment and people’s direct surroundings. Policy is becoming increasingly integral in its approach, both at national and international level. Examples of these are the Dutch All-in-one Permit for Physical Aspects (General Provisions) and areas such as spatial planning and water safety.

Website, helpdesk, publications and meetings

Information from InfoMil is accessible via multiple channels:

• Website
• Helpdesk
• Newsletters and magazines
• Conferences and seminars

Link between policy and practice

InfoMil participates in numerous consultative bodies and workgroups. We engage in consistent and constructive discourse with policymakers and administrators. The experience we have acquired about the challenges of implementation practice provides a continuous source of input for policy development and evaluation with the Ministry of Infrastructure and the Environment.

Active network partnerships

InfoMil actively cooperates with partners in different networks. Knowledge partners such as the National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM) and the Netherlands Normalization Institute, as well as umbrella organisations such as the Association of Provincial Authorities (IPO) and the Association of Netherlands Municipalities (VNG).

InfoMil: International partner

InfoMil further leverages its knowledge by supporting environmental policy in other countries. By participating in European networks like IMPEL (European Network for Implementation and Enforcement of Environmental Law) and by implementing bilateral projects, InfoMil contributes to the development and implementation of European environmental policy and legislation.