Environmental Impact Assessment Act 2003 (Tonga)
Upon the determination of the Minister of Environment that a project is likely to result in pollution, natural hazards can adversely affect the environment or biodiversity or have any environmental effects which is likely to occur to a significant degree, the project is deemed to be a major project. All major projects should be supported by an appropriate environmental impact assessment.
The Act established the Environmental Assessment Committee and enumerates its functions which include the review and recommendation of conditions to be attached to major projects, among others. It also defines the prohibited acts and provides the penalties therefor.