UK to launch Interim Office for Environmental Protection The new Office will be set up from July in non-statutory form to provide independent oversight of the government’s environmental progress and to accelerate the foundation of the full body Image: Shutterstock The government is to launch the new environmental watchdog for England on an interim basis ahead of its formal establishment as part of the Environment Bill. Under the latest plans set out, the new Interim Office for Environmental Protection will be set up from July in non-statutory form to provide independent oversight of the government’s environmental progress and to accelerate the foundation of the full body.