Minister for Environment and Climate Change Lynda Tabuya has addressed concerns about public access to the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) report for the proposed Waste-to-Energy Facility and private port at Vuda Point.
She understands that many people find it hard to access such documents during regular government hours. To solve this, the Department of Environment is now allowing people to view the EIA report daily at First Landing Beach Resort and Villas, extended until 11 PM. Access is also available at the department’s offices in Suva, Lautoka, and the Ba Provincial Office during normal hours.
This 21-day public review period runs from March 23 to April 22, 2026. It’s the first step in the EIA process, and Ms. Tabuya encourages residents, especially those near the proposed site, to read the report and share their thoughts.
She noted that the current rules, set out by the Environment Management (EIA Process) Regulations 2007, include a $5 fee per page for those who wish to access the physical reports. “These are legal requirements that we must follow,” she stated.
Importantly, Ms. Tabuya emphasized that access to information is a constitutional right. To improve this access, the ministry has proposed changes that are currently under review by the Solicitor-General’s Office. She highlights that transparency and public participation are crucial in making environmental decisions.
Interestingly, in recent years, public interest in environmental issues has grown significantly. According to a survey by Pew Research, 70% of people believe that government decisions should involve public input. This trend reflects a broader shift in society, where communities increasingly demand a say in projects that affect their environment.
As this consultation process unfolds, Ms. Tabuya assures the public that there will be further opportunities for community engagement. The ministry is dedicated to maintaining a fair, transparent approach and welcomes constructive feedback from all stakeholders.
