Environmental Planning and Protection Bill, 2017.

The objectives of this Act are (i) to protect the environment of the islands of the Commonwealth of the Bahamas in order to provide for development to maintain ecological integrity and the social and economic welfare of the community, (ii) to provide a legal framework for the protection, enhancement, and conservation of the environment in a sustainable manner, (iii) to promote best practices in environmental management to prevent environmental degradation through policies, planning as well as public participation in decision-making processes, (iv) to establish a mechanism for effective implementation of projects, programs and activities. This Bill sets forth provision on the establishment, funding and duties of the Department of Environmental Planning and Protection, and moreover environmental planning, environmental impact assessment, certificate of Environmental Compliance, duties for environmental protection, environmental incidents and emergencies, capacity building through environmental information, research, education and training, investigation and enforcement, offences and penalties, and compensation for loss of property. Due to the environmental incidents and emergencies, the Department may give directions to take measures to protect the environment, human health and safety, and to prevent, repair, mitigate or reduce the adverse effects of the incident. The Minister responsible for environmental planning and protection may make regulations for the implementation of the provisions of this Act.