Ministry of Environment pushes forward with climate resilience initiatives

The Ministry of Environment, Conservation, Climate Change, Disaster Management and Meteorology (MECCDM) is making strides in reducing the country’s dependence on fossil fuels and enhancing climate resilience.

In his Ministerial Quarterly Brief over the weekend, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, David Hiba, outlined the Ministry’s key activities and several reforms undertaken by the Ministry.

Notable among these activities is the progress made in trialing the Virgin Coconut Oil (VCO)–Diesel Blended Fuel. 

A 2017 technical study showed promise in reducing diesel imports, improving fuel efficiency, and enhancing rural livelihoods through coconut value chains.

The Ministry is also progressing with the Environment Act Repeal, with the Cabinet approval secured for a new framework on development consents and increased penalties for non-compliance.

Another major progress made is the construction of the first weather radar station at Henderson International Airport, targeting commissioning in June this year.

Work on the Carbon Trading Policy is also progressing with the Ministry of Forestry and Research, while the work on the National Adaptation Plan is underway to guide climate adaptation investments.

On legislative reforms, the Ministry is currently working on Amendments to the Meteorology Act and the National Disaster Council (NDC) Act, and the drafting of a new Climate Change Bill.

“These initiatives aim to enhance energy security, reduce vulnerability to fuel price shocks, and drive climate resilience,”Permanent Secretary David Hiba said.

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GCU statement