ABSTRACT
Implementation of French environmental policies appear to be highly complex in that it involves many actors, levels of action and authority, and many types of policy instruments. A particularly problematic aspect of environmental policy applies to the implementation of classified installation regulations. The main characteristic of the implementation of French environmental policy is that it is based on consensus rather than on imposition of constraints on the actors involved. Environmental policy implementation in France is also based on partnership. The central environmental administration and its representatives at the regional and local level try to get target groups and/or local governments involved, as their partners, in the policy implementation process. The chapter aims to examine in detail the implementation of environmental policies in France. In some areas the implemented policies seem fairly effective and efficient as in the case of industrial air pollution.
