To Protect, Conserve and Manage
From climate change to biodiversity conservation, environment affairs is a matter concerning everyone, everyday.
APPLICATIONS & PERMITS
To monitor and evaluate activities which significantly affect the environment.
STEWARDSHIP
Manage projects relating to biodiversity, conservation, Pa Enua (Outer Islands), research and data collection.
PARTNERSHIPS
The National Environment Service applies stewardship to the planning and management of the environment and natural resources in the Cook Islands.
LEGISLATION
Environment Act 2003 and associated regulations are in place to manage environmental matters in the Cook Islands
The National Environment Service is established to protect, conserve and ensure the Cook Islands environment is managed sustainably.
Our cultural identify is deeply rooted in our environment and it is part of our heritage and legacy that must be passed on to future generations of Cook Islanders.

VACANCIES
Latest Projects

Montreal Protocol
(MP) Project
The MP Project aims to phase out Ozone Depleting Substances (ODS) & phase down Hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), which are man-made chemicals harmful to the our environment and health.
UNEP support the Cook Islands compliance with the control measures, implementing activities and other obligations under the Montreal Protocol.

GEF-8 PLastIc R.e.s.p.o.n.s.e Project
The NES is excited to present the Cook Islands national project under the GEFs Circular Solutions to Plastic Pollution integrated program (IP) titled, “Reducing Single-use Plastics on Small Island Economies” or RESPONSE.

Tita’ ki te Tita’kore
The National Environment Service (NES) has partnered with Cook Islands General Transport (CIGT) to launch the “Tita’ ki te Tita’ kore Project.” This initiative is aimed at tackling the environmental and health risks posed by the improper disposal of whiteware, electronic waste (E-Waste) and end-of-life vehicles (ELVs) on Rarotonga. This forward-looking initiative reflects the Cook Islands Government’s commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainable waste management practices.

Cook Islands GEF-7 ENUA Project
Welcome to the latest update on the Global Environment Facility (GEF) 7 project in the Cook Islands!
This exciting project is working towards enhancing biodiversity considerations and effective protected area management to safeguard the Cook Islands integrated ecosystems and species. It involves many key partners and stakeholders working together towards this common goal.
It s Time To Make
A Change.
Latest News
Vavia Tangatataia Completes Postgraduate Certificate in Environmental Management
“Capacity building is more than just a qualification, it’s about equipping ourselves with the right knowledge to make better decisions for our people and our…
NES supports the ratification of the BBNJ Treaty
Following the adoption of the BBNJ Agreement by the UN General Assembly in June 2023, the Cook Islands signed the Agreement on 22 September 2023…
Crab and birdlife numbers increase from 2018 survey
Palmerston Island recent surveys - a positive outcome

Cook Islands Biodiversity
To monitor and evaluate activities which significantly affect the environment.