These Regulations implement Directive 2004/35/EC in relation with environmental liability with regard to the prevention and remedying of environmental damage to protected species, natural habitats, areas of special scientific interest, water and land. They provide that, for certain economic activities, where there is an imminent risk of environmental damage, the operator must take steps to prevent it, and if it has occurred must prevent further damage. Where damage has occurred, the Department of the Environment must assess the damage and identify remedial measures. It must then serve a remediation notice on the operator specifying what remediation is required.