The main function of the Environmental Planning and Impact Assessment Division is to manage Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) in Vanuatu.
As part of implementing Part 3 of the Environmental Protection and Conservation Act [CAP 283] the Division’s responsibilities are to:
- Facilitate EIA - from the application stage to the granting or refusal of Environmental Permits
- Screen and review applications for Environmental Permits applications, undertaking Preliminary Environmental Assessments (PEAs) and visiting project sites
- Develop Terms of Reference for EIA reports
- Organise the review of EIA reports and Environmental Management and Monitoring Plans by an EIA Review Committee (the Committee)
- Prepare Committee meeting minutes and reports of the Committee
- Develop Environmental Permit conditions
- Work with the Compliance Officer to monitor and enforce Environmental Permits and the Environmental Protection and Conservation Act [CAP 283].
By administering EIA, the Division seeks to promote better management and protection of the natural environment – effective planning, implementation and enforcement of the DEPC’s environmental frameworks will help to ensure clean, resilient and sustainable use of the natural resources for the citizens of Vanuatu.