The purpose of this consultation is to introduce new standard rules to allow operators of existing installations to carry out research and development activities for the innovation, introduction, and improvement of products and processes associated with the permitted activities. 

The rules are supported by a generic risk assessment to ensure that the risks to the environment and human health are reduced to an acceptable level for these activities.  

The Environment Agency will take consultation responses into account. We will publish our response, together with the new standard rules and risk assessment, on GOV.UK.