National Environment Policy 2022 - 2032.

The National Environment Policy (NEP 2022-32) aims to safeguard and sustainably manage the Cook Islands' ecological systems, biodiversity, and environmental resources. It establishes a clear national framework to enhance collaboration among Government, Island Government, NGOs, the private sector, and the public. The policy fosters strong partnerships across sectors to support sustainable development for present and future generations. Additionally, it integrates environmental considerations into economic and social policies, ensuring a holistic approach to national planning, while promoting stewardship and responsible environmental care. The timeframe of the policy is 10 years covering the period from 2022 to 2032. Six policy objectives are: (i) effective land-use planning for sustainable development; (ii) protection of the marine environment for sustainable oceans, lagoons and marine resources; (iii) conservation of threatened plants and animals and sustainable use of biodiversity; (iv) effective management of water resources for a healthy environment and water security; (v) climate change adaptation and mitigation and emissions reduction; and (vi) effective management of waste.
Land conservation mechanisms will be integrated into the Cook Islands National Sustainable Development Agenda. Permits and consents regulations will be developed to strengthen environmental management, compliance systems, control and monitoring. Permitting system will be implemented for cultural sites to protect cultural heritage and traditional ecological knowledge. The governance capacity of the Island Environment Authority and the National Environment Council will be enhanced for sound decision making on land-use consents and permits. A strategic land-use planning policy and legal framework will be developed for effective management, with an emphasis on protected areas. The importation of certain substances for agriculture or horticulture purposes will be considered in terms of their impacts on soil and land resources.
Coastal protection systems, including nature-based solutions, will be implemented to mitigate coastal erosion. Appropriate environmental regulations will be developed to strengthen management and compliance systems relating to Cook Islands waters, including seabed mining activities. The collaboration between the agencies responsible for marine activities will be strengthened to address marine pollution. The jurisdiction of the Environment Act will be expanded to cover beyond the Economic Exclusive Zone to the Continental Shelf to be in line with other key agencies. The technical capacity of the National Environment Service (NES) will be enhanced to undertake effective compliance, enforcement and monitoring programmes. The governance capacity of the Island Environment Authority and the National Environment Council will be enhanced for sound decision making on marine-based consents and permits. The development of Sustainable Financing Mechanisms (SFMs) will be supported for marine based activities.
Biodiversity conservation and management will be strengthened to fulfil the obligations to support relevant regional and global Multilateral Environment Agreements. The regulatory framework will be developed to designate at risk, rare or threatened animals, plants and their habitats as protected species. The guidelines or management plans will be developed to support regulations dealing with specific types of wildlife. The legal framework will be developed to conserve trees, including the prevention and or control of vegetation clearance. The National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan will be updated to address the current landscape and threats relating to the Cook Islands biodiversity. Bioprospecting, access and benefit sharing mechanisms and permits will be established for any exportation of Cook Islands biodiversity to optimize research outcomes and protect sovereign and local rights. Research and data collection on Cook Islands biodiversity will be strategically planned and developed for capacity building and sound decision making.
Sustainable management of water sources will be ensured to manage environmental impacts. The legal framework will be improved to address water conservation, groundwater, stormwater and the impacts of wastewater on the environment and human health. A Water Sector Group will be established to provide strategic oversight and coordination of intersectoral activities within the water cycle. Research on the application of water conservation techniques, technology, water conscious product design and re-use of wastewater, will be promoted. Effective monitoring and control measures will be implemented on water usage for commercial purposes. Water conservation measures will be taken for commercial and private users, and the collection of rainwater for agriculture purposes like irrigation systems will be promoted. The resilience of water systems to the impacts of climate change and disasters will be increased.
Adaptation and mitigation measures will be undertaken to combat the impacts of climate change. Public awareness will be raised on climate change, air quality and air pollution. The use of renewable energy sources will be promoted by facilitating adequate infrastructure. The national standards on vehicle emissions will be established to reduce emissions and orient to use energy efficient products. The partnership with the Ministry of Health will be strengthened to address the joint impacts of air pollution on the environment and health of the resident population. The legal and regulatory frameworks will be reviewed to manage hazardous substances and waste. Natural carbon sinks will be enhanced by conserving forests and protecting natural ecosystems.
Waste management will be strengthened by improving solid waste management systems in Rarotonga and the Pa Enua; updating the legal and regulatory frameworks relating to waste management and resource recovery mechanisms; publishing guidelines on environmental quality to include standards on solid waste and wastewater; and carrying out activities for the prevention and control of pollution and waste. Effective communications will be developed on the circular economy, waste management and the different types of waste. The technical capacity of the NES will be enhanced on specific waste management areas, such as plastics. Sustainable financing will be established for end of life management of products and packaging. Environmentally safe disposal of toxic chemicals and waste will be ensured and recycling will be promoted.