The Department of Environment processed more than $1 billion worth of sustainable investments in its last financial year.
Department of Environment director Sandeep Singh revealed that in their last financial year, the Department received 528 EIA screening applications compared with 220 applications in the 2021-2022 financial year- an increase of 308 applications or a 140 per cent increase.
Speaking at an EIA consultation in the Western Division this week, Ms Singh said the determinations approved by the department increased from 258 in 2021/2022 financial year to 418 in the last financial year.
Likewise, the environmental management practices approved increased from 31 to 105.
Ms Singh expressed the department’s disappointment at the facilities and businesses that were not complying with their approval conditions despite continuous efforts by the ministry to raise awareness through EIA roundtables and EIA clinics.
“Environment Impact Assessment (EIA) process and the EIA approval conditions should be the tool and guiding documents to mitigate against environmental impacts including impacts that result in climate change (such as emission of carbon dioxide and methane).
“The environmental implications and cumulative impacts of unplanned developments and operations (existing facilities) could significantly impact on the progress and economic growth of our nation.
“Therefore, there is an urgent need for transformative actions at all levels of societies and economies to protect the Earth from perilous circumstances that threatens our existence,” she said.
The department issued 48 non-compliance notices last financial year and another 46 Prohibition Notices to businesses for various environmental breaches.
