Environment Management Act, 2005 (Fiji)

The Act articulates the following as its purposes: (i) to apply the principles of sustainable use and development of natural resources; and (ii) to identify matters of national importance for the Fiji Islands. The matters of national importance identified in the Act refer to: (a) the preservation of the coastal  environment, margins of wetlands, lakes and rivers; (b) the protection of outstanding natural landscapes and natural features; (c) the protection of areas of significant indigenous vegetation and significant habitat of indigenous fauna; (d) the relationship of indigenous Fijians with their ancestral lands, waters, sites, sacred areas and other treasures; or (e) the protection of human life and health. The Act further establishes the National Environment Council whose functions include overseeing the implementation of the National Environment Strategy, ensuring implementation of commitments at regional and international fora on the environment, as well as to advise the Government on international and regional treaties, conventions and agreements relating to the environment, among others.