Decision no. 568, dated 17.7.2019 for the creation, organization and operation of the National Environmental Agency.

This Decision, also based on the provisions of the Law No.10431 dated 9.6.2011 on the environment protection, proclaims the creation of the National Environment Agency, as a public budget legal entity, depending on the minister responsible for the environment, with headquarters in the capital city (Tirana). The Agency is financed from the state budget and from other legal sources. The mission is to protect, preserve and improve the environment as a vital asset for present and future generations, and prevention and reduction of risks to human life and health, ensuring and improving the quality of life, prudent and rational use of nature and its resources within the sustainable development of the country. This Agency has the following main functions: 1. Ensuring environmental performance; 2. Environmental research and knowledge; 3. Environmental impact assessment and licensing; 4. Inspection and thematic control for compliance with legal requirements and conditions environmental. The Agency extends its activity throughout the territory of the Republic of Albania, and it shall be organized on two different levels: a) Central level, through the General Directorate; b) Regional level, through regional agencies.