REMINDER: Requirement for Environmental Impact Assessments (EIA) for new developments

Another permit issued by the Department of Environmental Protection and Conservation (DEPC) is the Environmental Impact Assessment permit, the application process of which is regulated under the Environmental Protection and Conservation Act No. 6 of 2019

Any development projects that are likely to cause impact on the environment, society or traditional custom, based on its type, size or location, must comply with the Act and apply for an EIA permit.

An application form for the permit must be filled and submitted to the DEPC (application form can be collected as hard copy from the office or accessed through the Department’s website https://environment.gov.vu).

DEPC officers will then visit the development site and undertake environment assessment to develop a Preliminary Environment Assessment (PEA) from which a decision is made on whether or not a full EIA is required.

If DEPC determines that the development must undergo a full EIA, then the developer will engage a local consultant (in consultation with DEPC) to do this work.

Once the EIA report is completed, an Environment Permit is issued if the report meets and satisfies the required process.

Any activity carried out without being subjected to the EIA provisions under law or prior to receiving written approval or any such activity where approval has been refused under the provisions of this Part, carries a hefty penalty of imprisonment or fine no exceeding VT5 million for an individual and fine not exceeding VT100 million for a corporate body.

All importers and developers are encouraged to adhere to permit requirements as non-compliance will result in issuance of a penalty.