The indicator measures to which extent the states clearly define in their law the specific grounds on which a request for environmental information can be refused. The grounds for refusal are to be interpreted narrowly, taking into account the public interest served by disclosure.

This indicator is an arithmetic average of expert answers to questions on a scale from 0 (worst) to 3 (best): (3.1) To what extent does the law clearly define specific grounds on which a request for environmental information can be refused?; (3.2) To what extent does the law require environmental information that is covered by a ground for refusal to be severed (separated) from the rest of the information before being released to the requester?; (3.3) To what extent does the law require the decision-maker to take into account the public interest served by disclosure when considering exemptions (grounds for refusal)?