New Legislation Aims To Promote Proper Use Of Environment

In December 2019 Parliament passed a package of environmental bills geared towards developing, reinforcing and strengthening the laws which promote and support the management, protection, enhancement and proper use of the Bahamian environment. This article provides an overview of the new legislation.

Environmental Planning and Protection Act

The Environmental Planning and Protection Act (EPPA) 2019 (40/2019), which came into operation on 20 January 2020, is one of the most notable new laws with respect to Bahamian real estate and development. The EPPA has not only established the Department of Environmental Planning and Protection and replaced the Bahamas Environment, Science and Technology Commission, it has also created provisions for ensuring the ease of doing responsible business by creating a streamlined process which requires individuals to obtain environmental clearances before commencing projects.