The National Environment Service (NES) is committed to transparency and accountability in protecting our natural environment. This dashboard provides an overview of key compliance activities undertaken from January to April 2025, including Approvals, Public Complaints, and Notices issued. Approvals refer to official permissions granted by NES for proposed developments or activities, ensuring they meet environmental standards. The NES issues three main types of applications & permits for the purpose of environmental compliance:
- Tier 1: Environment Approval – provided for an activity that only has minimal environment impact
- Tier 2: Environment Consent – provided for an activity that has some but not significant environment impact. A technical report must be provided
- Tier 3: Environment Impact Assessment (EIA) Permit – provided for an activity that is likely to cause significant environment impact. An EIA report must be provided with mandatory public consultation.
For a breakdown of each tier and what it entails, please refer to the Environmental Compliance – Main Activity Tiers Factsheet.
Complaints often relate to concerns raised by the public about illegal dumping, burning, or unapproved developments. Notices are formal documents issued to individuals or organisations who breach environmental regulations. NES encourages the public to help reduce complaints and notices by reporting issues early, following proper permitting processes, and consulting with our NES Compliance Officers in person at our office in Tupapa, or contacting us on phone 21256, or emailing: nes@cookislands.gov.ck.
“The Environmental Compliance work is a core part of how NES protects our environment every day. By working together, we can reduce environmental risks and maintain healthier surroundings for all.” says Vavia Tangataia, Environmental Compliance Manager.
