Legal regulation of access to information in the field of environmental protection

Access to environmental information is a fundamental principle of international environmental law, emphasizing transparency and public participation as essential for environmental protection and justice. Despite international initiatives, national legal frameworks vary in providing timely and effective access to such information, which can influence public awareness and environmental responsibility. The purpose of this study is to examine the legal regulation of access to environmental information in the European Union (EU) and several post-Soviet countries. The methodology includes general scientific methods (systemic, analytical, dialectical, formal-logical, and modeling) and specialized legal approaches (historical-legal, comparative-legal, and formal-legal). The study finds that while EU institutions have extensive reporting mechanisms, capacity and awareness gaps limit effective use of environmental data. In post-Soviet countries, legal frameworks often lack mechanisms for early public involvement and effective feedback. Comparative analysis highlights a strong link between national regulations and international norms, with opportunities for legislative improvement and civic empowerment. The study concludes that enhancing access to environmental information can improve transparency, strengthen democratic participation, and support sustainable environmental governance. The paper is relevant for policymakers and scholars seeking to align national legislation with international environmental standards.