Under the Environmental Protection Act, to whom must a major pesticide spill be reported?

A major pesticide spill falls under the regulations established by the Environmental Protection Act, which is designed to protect the environment and public health. When a significant spill occurs, the responsible party must report it to the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change. This ministry is tasked with overseeing and enforcing environmental laws, including the management of hazardous materials such as pesticides.

The need to notify the Ministry emphasizes the importance of rapid response and coordination in addressing potential environmental contamination. The Ministry has the appropriate resources and authority to manage the incident effectively, mitigate harm, and prevent further environmental damage. This reporting requirement reflects the overarching goal of the Environmental Protection Act to ensure public safety and protect ecological systems.

In this context, the other options do not align with the procedural requirements outlined in the act. Local police, while critical for law enforcement, are not designated responders for environmental spills. The Ministry of Transport does not have jurisdiction over pesticide issues. Local health inspectors primarily focus on public health and safety rather than environmental hazards related to pesticide spills. Thus, the responsibility clearly lies with the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change.