Civil society has an important role to play in shaping environmental decisions in Trinidad and Tobago. Communities, CSOs and individuals are expected to contribute when government agencies and developers decide on projects or activities that could affect our environment. While public participation is enshrined in environmental laws and policies in T&T, such as the Environmental Management (EM) Act, implementation varies. In practice, this participation takes place through the Certificate of Environmental Clearance (CEC) process and its related Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) process, as well as national policy consultations and civil society representation on committees or boards.
For example, the CEC Rules, established under the EM Act, set out how projects are screened and approved. Developers must apply for a CEC before starting certain projects so the Environmental Management Authority (EMA) can assess whether it meets environmental standards or requires further study. For higher-risk projects – such as oil and gas development, highways, industrial facilities or housing and commercial developments near sensitive ecosystems – an EIA is required due to their significant risks.
Public participation occurs throughout the CEC process. This includes public notices, opportunities to submit written comments and public consultations when an EIA is required. Civil society can even challenge final decisions through the Environmental Commission.
As part of our efforts to strengthen civil society’s role in environmental governance, EnviroRightsTT hosted a virtual training series on the CEC and EIA process, equipping CSOs with critical knowledge and practical tools to engage more effectively.
Access training materials here [insert link]
For more information on the CEC process, contact the EMA via:
🌐 www.ema.co.tt/our-environment/cec/