Environment Impact Assessment
Overview
As part of Fiji’s national commitment to safeguard the natural environment and promote sustainable development, the Department of Environment administers the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) process to ensure that all development projects comply with national environmental standards through comprehensive assessment, review, and monitoring.
The EIA process provides a structured and transparent framework for evaluating the potential environmental, social, and economic impacts of proposed developments. This ensures that decision-makers are well-informed, ecological integrity is protected, and that sustainable development outcomes are achieved in accordance with Fiji’s environmental laws and policies.
The Department works collaboratively with relevant ministries, agencies, and stakeholders to ensure that development activities are environmentally responsible, socially acceptable, and economically viable.
The EIA process operates under the legal framework of the:
- Environment Management Act 2005
- Environment Management (EIA Process) Regulations 2007
These legislations provide the foundation for environmental governance in Fiji, requiring that all developments with potential environmental impacts undergo proper assessment, consultation, and approval before implementation.
EIA Process
EIA Screening: Determining whether a proposed project requires a full environmental assessment.
EIA Scoping: Identifying the key environmental issues and scope of assessment to guide the EIA study.
EIA Report: Preparing detailed documentation that outlines potential environmental impacts and proposed mitigation measures.
Reviewing EIA Submissions: Assessing submitted reports to ensure compliance with the Environment Management Act and associated regulations.
Issuing EIA Decisions/Approvals: Providing formal decisions and approvals based on review outcomes.
Compliance and Enforcement Inspections: Conducting monitoring visits and inspections to ensure adherence to approved environmental conditions and mitigation commitments.
Through these coordinated efforts, the Department upholds Fiji’s commitment to environmental protection while supporting responsible development that benefits both people and nature.
Processing of Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA)
The Department of Environment manages the EIA process in compliance with the Environment Management Act 2005 and the Environment Management (EIA Process) Regulations 2007. This section outlines the key steps, requirements, and timelines involved in the assessment, review, and approval of development proposals.
Potential Users
Developers and project proponents
Submission Forms
Checklists
- Checklist within application forms
- EIA Processing Application Checklist (Download)
- EIA Screening Application Checklist (Download)
Supporting Documents
- Locality plan
- Lease or title
- Foreign investment certificate (if applicable)
- Concept Development Plan
FAQs
EIA Process Workflow & Turnaround Time
-
1
EIA Screening
7 working days
Application & Determination -
2
Scoping Exercise
15 days
Preparation of Terms of Reference -
3
EIA Review , Decision & Notification
35 days
Upon Submission of EIA Report
