Environmental Management Act 2010 (Tonga)

The Environmental Management Act establishes the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change for the purpose of ensuring the protection and proper management of the environment and the promotion of sustainable development. The functions of the Ministry include:

• Matters relating to climate change, ozone depletion, movement or disposal of hazardous wastes and chemicals
• Desertification and drought relief
• Preservation of wetlands and management, and protection of coastal areas, conservation of endangered species
• Preservation of biological diversity
• Aspects of the environmental management of international waters

These functions specifically include:

• Liaising with Government ministries, departments and agencies in relation to issues affecting the environment and climate change.
• Assisting other Government ministries and departments in relation to meeting their obligations in relation to the protection of the environment, climate change issues and the development of the natural resources.
• Advising Government in relation to matters of environmental management (e.g., climate change, protection and conservation of natural resources, sustainable development).
• Coordinating Government’s response to matters affecting the environment and the enforcement of laws relating to the protection of the environment.
• Monitoring impacts on the environment.
• Preparing environment and climate change plans and policies, among others.