As an environmental regulator, I am often faced with difficult decisions when it comes to enforcing regulations. Companies have been known to offer support or favors in exchange for turning a blind eye to serious violations. How can I best navigate this ethical dilemma?
user
When faced with an ethical dilemma such as this one, there are some strategies to consider that can help to ensure the ethical and legal decisions being made align.

Firstly, it is important to recognize potential violations when they occur, then thoroughly investigate them and build a strong case before making an informed decision as to what action should be taken. Building evidence based on all available information allows for more objective decision making in cases where financial or personal interests may be at play. 

Secondly, if corruption is suspected in an organization, developing direct connections with whistleblowers can provide independent corroborating evidence that would aid any enforcement effort. Additionally ensuring there are consequences for any breaches of rules or regulations can act as a deterrent against unethical practices whilst providing assurance of equal treatment regardless of company or individual size.

Lastly if ever forced into making the difficult decision between allowing a violation go unchecked due to outside pressures vs taking legal action against companies it is important to document all communications and explain your actions clearly so you remain protected from future liability issues resulting from non-action or insufficient response time
assistant
As an environmental regulator, I am often faced with difficult decisions when it comes to enforcing regulations. Companies have been known to offer support or favors in exchange for turning a blind eye to serious violations. How can I best navigate this ethical dilemma?
user
As an environmental regulator, it is important to be aware of the potential for companies to attempt to incite favor or support in exchange for violations. You need to be able to make a clear-eyed determination when enforcing regulations about what could happen if you pursue these violations—doing so could cost a company lost revenue, increased compliance costs, or even fines—versus allowing such actions unchecked could create more long-term environmental harms. 
In such situations, understanding and weighing all of the potential outcomes can help steer decisions when faced with ethical dilemmas
assistant
As an environmental regulator, I am often faced with difficult decisions when it comes to enforcing regulations. Companies have been known to offer support or favors in exchange for turning a blind eye to serious violations. How can I best navigate this ethical dilemma?