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Government of the Republic of Kiribati 

Kiribati Integrated Environment Policy 

Vision Statement: -“The People of Kiribati continue to enjoy a safe and healthy environment that is resilient to the impacts of global climate change and supports livelihoods, human health, and sustainable development” 

Coordinated by Environment and Conservation Division (ECD) of Ministry of Environment, Lands and Agriculture Development (MELAD) June 2013       

FOREWORD 

The Kiribati Integrated Environment Policy (KIEP) is a key strategic policy document that marks an important milestone for the Government of Kiribati. It sets a solid policy platform for long term planning and action to respond to priority environmental issues, in particular the impacts of global climate change on our islands. It is a statement of intent and a document providing guidance and direction for government, local communities, development partners and all other stakeholders. This document is particularly relevant for 2012 the year of Rio+20 as we take stock of what we have done since the Earth Summit in 1992 and look to the future.  

The KIEP is formulated through a 3 year broad based consultation process with government, private sector, Non-Government Organizations (NGOs), Community Support Organizations (CSO), outer islands and regional organizations like the Secretariat of the Pacific Environment Programme (SPREP). The consultation process proved to be a challenge due to the broad coverage of the environment sector.  

The Government of Kiribati recognizes the environment as one of the three important pillars of sustainable development. The environment, its goods and its services is the foundation of livelihoods, human health and economy in Kiribati. It formed our culture and heritage and shapes the unique custom, traditions and way of living of the Kiribati people. This harmonious interaction with our atoll environment has sustained our people since time immemorial and needs to continue to do so.  

People will always rely heavily on the environment to service their needs. Protecting, managing and utilizing the environment sustainable basis are vital, especially in a low-lying nation like Kiribati. Like many other Small Island Developing States (SIDS) and Least Developed Countries (LDC), Kiribati has suffered heavily the impacts of globalization in particular global climate change. The transition from a traditional subsistence lifestyle to a contemporary market-based economy, has brought with it key environmental challenges that adversely affect the overall health of the environment. Some of these key environmental challenges like the loss of island biodiversity, waste and pollution and the unsustainable use of natural resources are further magnified by the impacts of global climate change. 

These challenges are most apparent in the heavily populated urban centres of Betio, South Tarawa and increasingly on Kiritimati Island. Increased human population, urbanization at alarming levels, degradation of the natural environment due to increased generation of nonbiodegradable wastes and pollution put both the environment and economy under tremendous strain.  

The KIEP recognizes and is intended to support and complement all other government strategic policy documents. It integrates all the thematic plans and strategies within the Environment and Conservation Division’s mandate into a single strategic framework document. It will facilitate ‘on the ground’ implementation of the environment key policy area of the Kiribati Development Plan 2012 – 2015. Thus, the KIEP will enhance the Government’s effort to mainstream the environment into the national development planning as well as assisting to provide a framework that would assist line Ministries, development partners, communities and other stakeholders to effectively contribute to our collective actions to address environmental problems. This initiative is the first of its kind in the Pacific Islands region that also assists to set the scene by SPREP to replicate in other Pacific Islands as relevant.    

We have learnt a lot during the formulation of the KIEP. The main lesson is the need to work together and as the National Political Focal Point for the environment, I invite and challenge you to join me in using the KIEP to make this implementation practical, concrete and a reality to fulfil the KIEP’s Vision: 

“The People of Kiribati continue to enjoy a safe and healthy environment that is resilient to the impacts of global climate change and supports livelihoods, human health, and sustainable development”

Ami bwai Te Mauri, Te Raoi ao Te Tabomoa. 

Kam bati n rabwa.    

 ______________ 

Honourable Minister – Tiarite Kwong 

Minister for Environment, Lands and Agriculture Development 

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT 

The development of the Kiribati Integrated Environment Policy (KIEP) is a notable national initiative on mainstreaming environment in the national development planning and this could not be accomplished without the contributions of many people.    

An acknowledgement of the contributions of national key stakeholders during the three broad based consultations undertaken in August and December (2011) and January (2012) and thematic working groups meetings, which led to the formulation of the KIEP draft and finalization. These national stakeholders made up the various environment project committees including the Climate Change Study Team (CCST), Sustainable Land Management (SLM), National Biodiversity Planning Committee (NBPC), National Chemical Coordinating Committee (NCCC) and Waste Management Committee. These stakeholders include; 

1. Office of Te Beretitenti (OB) 
2. Ministry of Communication, Transport and Tourism Development (MCTTD) 
3. Ministry of Commerce Industry and Cooperatives (MCIC) 
4. Ministry of Education (MoE)  
5. Ministry of Environment, Lands and Agriculture Development (MELAD) 
6. Ministry of Finance and Economic Development (MFED) 
7. Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources Development (MFMRD) 
8. Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Immigration (MFAI) 
9. Ministry of Health and Medical Services (MHMS) 
10. Ministry of Internal and Social Affairs (MISA) 
11. Ministry of Public Works and Utilities (MPWU) 
12. Ministry of Labour and Human Resources Development (MLHRD) 
13. Ministry of Line & Phoenix Islands Development (MLPID)  

Acknowledging the contributions of the State Own Enterprises (KOIL and PUB), NonGovernment Organizations (NGOs) which include the University of the South Pacific (USP), United Nations Development Programme, Kiribati Association of Non-Government Organizations (KANGO), Councils and Churches.  Also appreciating the inputs received from the Outer Islands consultations undertaken during 2009 to 2011 including but not limited to Butaritari, Marakei, Abaiang, North Tarawa, Maiana, Aranuka, Abemama, Tabiteuea North and Onotoa   

The support by the Secretaries in releasing their respective Officers to attend the series of consultations during the initial stage of the development of the KIEP and the subsequent submission of critical comments on the draft is acknowledged.  

The support and guidance provided by the MELAD present and former admin officers throughout the whole process is recognized.   

The inspiration of the former Director of the Environment and Conservation Division, Mrs. Tererei Abete-Reema, her leadership in securing the approval for the development of the KIEP and for galvanizing a strong support from staff in undertaking this national important work. Also recognizing the perseverance and unwavering support and determination by the present and former Environment and Conservation Division staff in the whole process in undertaking the ground work including the contribution in the drafting. 

A special acknowledgement of the invaluable technical assistance provided by the Environmental Monitoring and Governance Division of the Secretariat of the Pacific Regional Environmental Programme (SPREP): Mr. Sefanaia Nawadra (Director), Dr. Jill Key (Capacity Development Adviser), Mr. Tepa Suaesi (Environment Officer) and Ms. Easter Galuvao (Biodiversity Advisor) are all gratefully acknowledged. 

We would like to acknowledge the kind financial support provided by the Multilateral Environment Agreements (MEAs) project for the Africa-Caribbean-Pacific (ACP) funded by the European Union (EU), implemented by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and executed in the Pacific by SPREP; the Programme of Work on Protected Areas (POWPA) implemented through UNOPs, the Climate Change Second National Communications (SNC), and the Sustainable Land Management (SLM) both Global Environment Facility (GEF) funded projects implemented by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). 

LIST OF ACRONYMS 

MEA                     Multi Environment Agreement 

MCTTD                Ministry of Communication, Tourism and Transport Development 

MCIC                    Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Cooperatives 

MELAD                Ministry of Environment, Lands and Agriculture Development 

MFAI                    Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Immigration 

MFED                   Ministry of Finance and Economic Development 

MFMRD               Ministry of Fisheries, Mineral and Resources Development 

MHMS                  Ministry of Health and Medical Services 

MISA                    Ministry of Internal and Social Affairs 

MLHRD                Ministry of Labour and Human Resource Development 

MOE                     Ministry of Education 

MOP                     Ministry Operational Plan 

MPWU                  Ministry of Public Works and Utilities 

NEPO                   National Economic Planning Office

NGO                    Non-Government Organization 

NSO                    National Statistics Office  

NZAID                 New Zealand Assistance for International Development 

OAG                     Office of the Attorney General 

OB                        Office of Te-Beretitenti 

PET                       Polyethylene terephthalate

PNA                      Party to the Nauru Agreement 

PSO                       Public Service Office 

PUB                      Public Utilities Board 

SLM                      Sustainable Land Management

SOPAC                 Pacific Islands Applied Geosciences Commission  

SPC                       Secretary of the Pacific Community 

SPREP                  Secretariat of the Pacific Environment Programme 

TUC                      Teinainano Urban Council 

WEU                     Water Engineering Unit  

UDP                      Urban Development Project 

UNCBD                  United Nations Convention on the Conservation of Biological Diversity 

UNCCD                  United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification, Land 

Degradation and Droughts 

UNDP                   United Nations Development Programme 

UNFCCC                United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change 

USP                      University of the South Pacific 

TABLE OF CONTENT FOREWORD ACKNOWLEDGEMENT 1           

POLICY FRAMEWORK 

      1.1       Environment and Development Context 

      1.2       Rationale for a Kiribati Integrated Environment Policy 

      1.3       Process of KIEP Formulation 

      1.4       Vision Statement 

      1.5       Mandate and Scope of the Policy 

      1.6       Policy Goal and Objectives 

      1.7       Roles and Responsibilities 

      1.8       Consultation and Coordination 

      1.9       Regional and Global Environment Frameworks 

      2          GUIDING PRINCIPLES 

      2.1       Leadership and Good Governance 

      2.2       Collective Responsibility for the Environment 

      2.3       Indigenous Knowledge, Practices and Innovations 

      2.4       Integration of the Environment and Development 

3   STRATEGIC ENVIRONMENT PLAN 2012-2015 

      3.1       Climate Change 

      3.2       Island Biodiversity Conservation and Management 

      3.3       Waste Management and Pollution Control 

      3.4       Resource Management 

      3.5       Environmental Governance

4    HUMAN RESOURCES AND FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS

5    IMPLEMENTATION, MONITORING AND REVIEWING SCHEDULE 6     REFERENCES

      1          POLICY FRAMEWORK 

      1.1       Environment and Development Context 

The Republic of Kiribati is a small island nation consisting of 32 atolls and one raised coral island with a total land area of 800 square kilometres spread over an oceanic exclusive economic zone (EEZ) of 3.5 million square kilometres.Kiribati lies close to the equator, located between latitude 4 degrees north and 11 degrees south; and longitude 170 degrees east and150 degrees west.There are three island chains with the Gilbert Islands in the west, the Phoenix Islands in the centre and the Line Islands in the east. Kiribati was part of the former British colony of the Gilbert and Ellice Islands and gained its independence in 1979. In the 2010 census Kiribati had a population of 103,000.  

The island atolls of Kiribati support a rich culture that relies heavily on a diverse and healthy marine environment for its survival. As self-contained systems, islands are living laboratories for evolution– each one holds an irreplaceable piece of Kiribati’s natural inheritance. Because of their isolation these islands support more rare and endangered species per capita than most other places in the world. Kiribati’s ocean waters are amongst the most productive and least polluted on earth, it has one of the largest stocks of tuna and related pelagic species that underpins its national economy.  

Since it was first settled, the people of Kiribati have relied on their natural resources for survival. They still do with an estimated 80% of the population primarily living a subsistence life style. The marine environment sustains them and they depend on it for food, transport, traditional practices and economic opportunity. On atolls the terrestrial environment is more limited but it is essential for water, food and shelter. 

The transition from a traditional subsistence lifestyle to a contemporary market-based economy has brought with it key environmental challenges. These challenges are most apparent in the heavily populated urban centres of Betio, South Tarawa and to a certain extent Kiritimati Island. South Tarawa is also where over 50% of the population live. Kiribati is one of the countries’ most vulnerable to global climate change and addressing the impacts of global climate change dominates the national environment and development agenda. However, Kiribati needs to address climate change in an integrated and holistic manner considering the other key areas of biodiversity conservation, waste and pollution management and sustainable use of natural resources, in particular marine and water resources. Eco-system based approaches need to be adopted to ensure that development aspirations are sustained by natural systems. The need for behavioural change to address environmental problems, in particular waste management and the critical need for pollution control on South Tarawa as the capital island to some extent, Kiritimati Island, is most readily apparent not only on heavily populated urban centres but also on other Islands.   

Since independence Kiribati has managed its development through a 4 year development planning cycle. The current Kiribati Development Plan (KDP) 2008 -2011 had for the first time Environment as one of its Key Policy Areas (KPA 4) amongst its 6 Key Policy Areas. The Kiribati government is currently in the process of reviewing this development plan and formulating the KDP 2012-2015. This Kiribati Integrated Environment Policy (KIEP) is intended to contribute to the review and revised targets and activities of the KDP 2012-2015. It also sets the direction towards long-term preparations and planning towards building and enhancing the resilience of Kiribati, its local communities and people to respond to the impacts of global climate change. 

      1.2       Rationale for a Kiribati Integrated Environment Policy 

 The environment has emerged as a Key Policy Area (KPA) of the KDP since 2008. This is a huge ‘break through success’ for the environment sector considering for the first time, the appearance of the environment on the development agenda for Kiribati at national level. Building on this, the Ministry of Environment, Lands and Agriculture Development (MELAD) seizes the opportunity to enhance the mainstreaming of the environment into the national development agenda, through the development of the KIEP. The KIEP bridges the gap in fulfilling and advancing the objectives of the Kiribati National Environment Management Strategy (NEMS) that was developed in 1993. One of the objectives of the NEMS is to coordinate the various environmental activities. In the absence of a review to bring the NEMS in line with Kiribati’s current and emerging environmental issues there has been an evolution of various key environment thematic area plans and action strategies. The complexity of issues surrounding the implementation of these plans and action strategies and the supporting roles of the various stakeholders from other line Ministries and civil society prompted the need for effective mechanisms. Such mechanisms would strengthen the coordination and collaboration between MELAD and the various Government Ministries and civil society in order to enhance their collective impact and effectiveness in addressing current and emergent environmental problems and issues in a holistic manner. 

Hence, the KIEP is aimed at strengthening the coordination, collaboration and coherent implementation of the existing thematic environmental area plans and activities. It helps clarify the roles and responsibilities of the different networks of relevant and key sectors and stakeholders in a rapidly expanding national environmental planning regime and to develop mechanisms that will increase effective stakeholder consultation, interaction and cooperation.  

 The KIEP will serve as the framework document through which, activities carried out under the Environment KPA will be guided. It does not replace the existing thematic area plans and action strategies but rather provides an integrated framework for their effective implementation. The KIEP will be tied into the term of the KDP and seeks to strengthen the environment pillar and, in that way effectively contributes towards the sustainable development of the Republic of Kiribati. It will follow the KDP’s monitoring and review cycle. 

The KIEP is also structured in a way that reflects the important roles of other Line Ministries outside MELAD that have direct or indirect roles to supporting environment protection and management from their respective portfolios. The KIEP is a blueprint document that will provide direct technical support towards achieving expected outputs under the relevant strategies of this key priority area, especially in areas concerning environment protection and management. The KIEP also provides a comprehensive roadmap towards addressing national priority problems that affect the overall health of the environment, as well as affecting the environment protection and management at the national level. As a roadmap, the KIEP also serves as a guide to the Environment and Conservation Division (ECD) of MELAD as the Environment Authority in Kiribati, towards long term preparations and planning to respond to the impacts of global climate change and subsequently enhance the resilience of the environment.  

      1.3       Process of KIEP Formulation 

The outcome of a series of outer islands and national consultations undertaken throughout Kiribati from 2009 – 2011 have been instrumental in identifying national priority areas that affect environmental protection and management in Kiribati. These have also contributed to the KIEP formulation. The KIEP has been formulated through participatory consultative processes where the initial stakeholder consultations were undertaken with various outer islands. This was followed by in depth discussions by thematic working groups on the outcomes of the consultations to come up with the first draft. The first draft was circulated to members of the thematic area working groups for comments.  A second round of consultations was then undertaken to 9 outer islands - Butaritari, Marakei, Abaiang, North Tarawa, Beru, Tabiteuea South, Beru, and Onotoa were visited to do participatory consultations with stakeholders at the island, village and local community levels. This is to solicit views on the first draft and raise new issues. The findings of the inter-island consultation, together with stakeholder comments on the first draft and further discussions by the thematic groups were used to consolidate into a draft that was presented and discussed with stakeholders in a half day workshop on 2^ndDecember, 2011. The outcome of this second round of consultations makes up the 2^nddraft which was circulated to stakeholders for their comment on the 6^thDecember, 2011. Stakeholders were requested to submit comments by Friday 16^thDecember, 2011. 

In early January 2012, a final round of consultation was undertaken again in the form of a workshop. Stakeholders, especially those who have provided comments and feedbacks on the second draft of the KIEP were invited. This provided an opportunity for the stakeholders to be updated on the latest development of the KIEP and the next stage to consider within a specified and agreed timeframe, in working towards finalizing this KIEP. From these consultative processes, it was agreed that ECD would work with its various KIEP working group in finalizing inputs and feedbacks for the final round. The outcome of which, will form the basis of the final KIEP, to be considered for the secretaries and Cabinet levels through clearance and the submission of MELAD administration. 

      1.4       Vision Statement 

 “The people of Kiribati continue to enjoy a safe and healthy environment that is resilient to the impacts of global climate change and supports livelihoods, human health and sustainable development” 

      1.5       Mandate and Scope of the Policy 

 The Environment Unit was first established in 1992 within the then Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources Development.  In 1999 it was upgraded into the ECD of the Ministry of Environment and Social Development. In 2003, as a result of a ministerial reshuffle, the ECD came under MELAD. The main powers, roles and responsibilities of the ECD are under the Environment Act 1999 and its amendment of 2007. It also has supporting responsibilities to a number of Acts and Ordnances such as: 

• Wildlife Ordnance 1977 
• Quarantine Ordnance 1977  
• Native Land Ordnance 1977 
• Foreshore and Land Reclamation Ordnance 1977 
• Land Planning Ordnance 1977 
• National Disaster Act 1993 
• Recreation Reserves Act 1996 
• Minerals Development Licensing 1998 CAP 58  
• Public Utilities Act 1999 
• State Lands Act 2001 
• Squatters Act 2005 
• Phoenix Island Protected Areas (PIPA) Regulations 2008 
• Fisheries Act 2010 

Kiribati is also a Party to a number of regional and global multilateral environment and related agreements (MEAs) including the: 

• United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) 
• Kyoto Protocol 
• United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification, Land Degradation and Drought (UNCCD) 
• United Nations Convention on Biological Diversity (UNCBD) 
• Cartagena Protocol on Bio-safety to the Convention on Biological Diversity 
• International Whaling Convention (IWC) 
• Convention on the Conservation and Management of the High Seas Fishery Resources in the South Pacific Ocean 
• Pacific Tuna Fisheries 
• World Heritage Convention (WHC) 
• Vienna Convention for the Protection of the Ozone Layer 
• Montreal Protocol to the Vienna Convention (Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer) and its Amendments 
• Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs) 
• Basel Convention on the Control of Trans-boundary Movements of Hazardous Waste and their Disposal 
• Waigani Convention 
• London Convention 
• International Convention on Liability and Compensation for Damage in Connection 

with the Carriage of Hazardous and Noxious Substances by Sea, (1996): Marine Pollution: UNCLOS (Chapters 1 & 12) – A

• MARPOL (International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships, 1973, as modified by the Protocol of 1978 relating thereto) Annexes I, II, III, IV, V and VI 
• CLC Protocol 92 
• Fund Protocol 92 
• Bunkers Convention 2001 
• Anti Fouling Convention 2001 
• Ballast Water Management Convention 2004 
• SPREP Pollution Emergency (Protocol concerning Cooperation in Combating Pollution Emergencies in the South Pacific Region) 
• SPREP Dumping Protocol 

 In the early1990s, Kiribati with the assistance of the Secretariat of the Pacific Regional Environment Programme (SPREP) formulated its NEMS. The scope of work carried out by ECD has expanded in the last two decades to address key environmental thematic areas: 

• climate change; 
• biodiversity conservation and management; 
• waste management and pollution control; 
• resource management; and 
• environmental governance. 

A number of key policy and strategic actions documents exist for each thematic area: 

                  Climate Change: 

• First National Communication 1999; 
• National Implementation Strategy (NIS) 2001; 
• National Adaptation Program of Action (NAPA); 
• Climate Change Adaptation Strategy 2005; •Draft Climate Change Framework; 
• National Energy Policy. 

                  Biodiversity Conservation and Management: 

• Kiribati Country Report; 
• Second National Report; 
• Fourth National Report 2010; 
• 2^ndNational Report to the Cartagena Protocol on Bio-safety 2011; 
• National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan 2007-2011; 
• Key Biodiversity Area Report; 
• Invasive Alien Species Strategic Action Plans; 
• PIPA Management Plan 2010-2014; 
• National Bio-Safety Framework 2010. 

                  Waste Management and Pollution Control: 

• Draft National Waste Management Strategy; 
• National Marine Pollution Contingency Plan; 
• National Chemical Profile; 
• Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs) National Implementation Plan (NIP); 
• Capacity Assessment for the Sound Management of Chemicals and National Strategic Approach to International Chemical Management (SAICM) Implementation; 
• Electrical and Electronic Waste Baseline Study; 
• Draft Landfill Operational Guidelines; 
• National Programme of Action (NPA) to protect the marine environment from land based pollution activities; 
• National HCFC Phase-out Management Plan. 

Resource Management: 

• Building Code; 
• Tarawa Water Master Plan; 
• National Water Resources Policy 2008; 
• National Sanitation Policy; 
• National Action Plan (NAP) to address Land Degradation and Droughts 2007; 
• Tarawa Lagoon Management Plan. 

Environmental Governance: 

• Environment Impact Assessment (EIA) Process; 
• National Environment Management Strategy (NEMS) 1994; 
• State of Environment Report (SoE) 1993; 
• State of Environment Report (SoE) 2004; 
• National Capacity Self-Assessment (NCSA) 2011; 
• Kiribati Development Plan 2008-2011; 
• MELAD Ministry Operational Plan (MOP); 
• Environment Legislative Review 1993; 
• Draft National Environment Communication Strategy; 
• Memorandum of Understanding for PIPA. 

As stated earlier, the KIEP does not replace these policies and strategic action documents and the work of their supporting stakeholder networks. Rather, it provides an integrated framework for their implementation.  

      1.6       Policy Goal and Objectives 

 The goals of this policy are key stages to be achieved within the next ten years in the planning and management of Kiribati’s environment. These goals are set for the abovementioned five thematic areas: climate change; island biodiversity conservation and management; waste management and pollution control; resource management; and environmental governance. 

 The table below sets out the thematic policy goals and strategic objectives. These directions form the basis of the priority strategies and targets for the policy implementation in the next four years and beyond that are presented in Section 3.  

      1.7       Roles and Responsibilities 

MELAD, through ECD, is the national environment authority in Kiribati. ECD is mandated under the Environment Act 1999 (amended in 2007) as the responsible authority for the implementation of the KIEP. ECD will be responsible for undertaking and coordinating its implementation with MELAD Administration, providing the high level support and oversight role. 

MELAD Administration has a critical role in the approval for the implementation of the KIEP at national, outer islands and village levels. The Secretary for MELAD is the Senior Responsible Officer for the environment portfolio of MELAD. The Secretary for MELAD is also the National Focal Point for the environment, including all MEAs to which Kiribati is a Party to. The MELAD Honourable Minister is the political focal point for the environment at national government level in Kiribati.  

Due to the cross-sectoral nature of the KIEP, a number of different Government agencies will play instrumental role in providing appropriate sectoral supports to ECD in sectoral areas that are directly relevant to fulfilling the overall environment portfolio of MELAD. This is especially so in specific sector areas that have overall support towards achieving environment protection and management and, subsequently contribute towards achieving a sustainable environment that is resilient to the impacts of global climate change. Hence, the KIEP, also outlines key activities of all relevant subsectors (in alignment with key sectors relevant plans under each thematic area) that these sectors are spearheading under their specific Ministries’ portfolios. This is with a view of promoting and enhancing collaboration and partnership between ECD and the key sectors concerned. Particularly in areas that need parallel and synergised implementation under this KIEP through the relevant portfolio of the Kiribati National Government, in order to address environmental problems and issues in a holistic manner.   

                  These lead agencies are: 

The role of the lead agency is supported by other ministries through their relevant mandates and functions and through multi-stakeholder national steering or coordinating committees. These committees coordinate the planning and implementation of key strategic environmental thematic action plans. 

Similarly, civil society has also instrumental role and responsibilities to assist in implementing the KIEP through exploring appropriate private sector partnership that enhances local communities’ involvement and participation at national, island and village levels. 

      1.8       Consultation and Coordination 

 The effective implementation of the policy will need consultation and coordination between the ECD and its stakeholders. The ECD will establish an Environment Advisory Committee to provide advice, consultation and coordination for the implementation, monitoring and review of the policy and its strategic plan at national level. The membership of the Environment Advisory Committee will be drawn from senior representatives of government agencies with representatives of other key stakeholders such as NGOs, churches and the private sector. 

 The key thematic areas of the policy will be supported by existing technical committees spearheaded and coordinated under each thematic areas and programs implemented by MELAD through ECD: 

      1.9       Regional and Global Environmental Frameworks 

 Kiribati is party to a number of regional and global conventions or multilateral environment agreements (MEAs) listed in section 1.4.This policy will provide the framework through which Kiribati will undertake activities towards meeting its national and international (as relevant only) obligations under these MEAs. 

 There are also a number of global and regional action frameworks towards which this policy will contribute. At the global level these include: 

• Agenda 21 
• The Johannesburg Plan of Implementation 
• Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) 

           Specifically for Small Island Developing States (SIDS) 

• The Barbados Plan of Action 
• The Mauritius Strategy for Implementation 

          And key regional planning frameworks include: 

• The Pacific Plan 
• SPREP Strategic Plan 2011-2015 
• Solid Waste Management Strategy for the Pacific Region 2010 -2015 
• Regional Asbestos Strategy 2011 
• Regional E-waste Strategy 2012 
• Regional Health Care Waste Management Strategy 2013 
• Pacific Ocean Pollution Prevention Programme Strategy (PACPOL) Strategy 
• Pacific Islands Regional Marine Spill Contingency Plan (PACPLAN) 
• Waigani and Stockholm Conventions 
• The Pacific Islands Framework of Action to Combat Climate Change 2006 -2015 
• The Pacific Action Strategy for the Conservation of Nature 2008 - 2012 
• The Pacific Islands Regional HCFC Phase-Out Management Plan 

      2.0       GUIDING PRINCIPLES 

 The formulation and implementation of this policy is guided by the following four (4) key principles: leadership and good governance; collective responsibility for the environment; indigenous knowledge, practices and innovations; and integration of the environment and development. 

      2.1       Leadership and Good Governance 

 This principle generally means that the government of Kiribati will lead efforts to protect, manage and promote the sustainable use of the country’s environment and its natural resources. It implies upholding good governing practices of transparency, accountability, shared responsibility and equity in the consideration of environmental requirements in development practices. It respects everyone’s right to a clean and healthy environment. And it recognizes key principles for respecting the needs and capacities of the natural environment such as the precautionary, polluter pays and carrying capacity principles. 

 The Precautionary Principleis defined in the UN Agenda 21 Rio Declaration as “Where there are threats of serious or irreversible damage, lack of full scientific certainty shall not be used as a reason for postponing cost-effective measures to prevent environmental degradation”. 

 The Polluter Pays Principlemeans that populations are justly responsible for the waste and pollution they generate either directly or through payments for the available mitigation and management services. The principle also extends to society’s responsibility to directly pay for the programs that help replenish, restore and rehabilitate natural resources and the environment that were exploited or degraded through extensive development activities.  

 The Carrying Capacity Principlemay be defined as the ability of the environment to sustain the needs of human development and its own natural requirements. As such development should respect and be maintained within the limits of the carrying capacities of its hosting environment if it is to achieve a more environmentally and socially sound and sustainable pathway. 

      2.2       Collective Responsibility for the Environment 

 Protecting, managing and sustainably using the environment and its goods and services are generally accepted as everyone’s responsibility. This responsibility is carried out both at the individual and collective levels. This principle recognises each individual as holding the key responsibility. It also recognises the relevant roles and influences that all sectors and institutions of the society have in contributing to the protection and management of Kiribati’s environment and its goods and services. 

      2.3       Indigenous Knowledge, Practices and Innovations 

 I-Kiribati people have developed valuable indigenous knowledge and practices that can contribute positively to the sustainable use and effective management of their natural resources and the environment. These traditions and practices are important elements of their culture and heritage that forms their national identity. These will be integrated into the implementation of this policy. ECD has a significant role in providing a conduit through protecting, managing and sustainably utilizing island biodiversity, to which indigenous knowledge, practices and innovations are dependent on.  

      2.4       Integration of the Environment and Development 

 This principle recognises the organic nature of environment and development in the sense that the environment underpins development. It recognises the challenges in reconciling and balancing the needs of the environment and the development needs of human society in Kiribati. It is vital that economic and/or physical development must be linked with environmental protection and, not degrading it to facilitate long-term sustainability. It emphasizes the critical importance of credible, relevant and legitimate scientific investigations and information to the integration and mainstreaming of the environment into development planning and implementation. It also recognises appropriate value systems of the people and society in Kiribati that promote and support the integrity of the environment as a system and its goods and services. 

      3.0       STRATEGIC ENVIRONMENT PLAN 2012 - 2016 

The Strategic Environment Plan 2012-2015 outlines in details the strategic environment priorities of the five environmental policy thematic areas: climate change; biodiversity conservation and management; waste management and pollution control; resource management; and environmental governance. It sets in place a national strategy towards long-term preparations and planning to respond to the impacts of global climate change and subsequently enhance the resilience of the environment in Kiribati. This Strategic Environment Plan will also guide the formulation of MELAD’s annual MOP and contribute towards the KDP, where the environment portfolio is concerned. It will guide the development of annual implementation work-plans and budgets for MELAD’s ECD and those of its stakeholders as appropriate. It also provides performance indicators defined to track progress. This will be also the framework for monitoring and reviewing the progress of environment priorities indicated under the environment key policy area of the KDP. As such, this Plan will have instrumental role in providing information that would be useful in determining and updating on the state of the environment in Kiribati as and when needed.  

The development of the strategic plan was guided by the experiences and lessons gained from the implementation of the national environmental programs in the last KDP 2008 – 2011, under the existing environment thematic action plans coordinated by ECD, and by other government and non-government organisations. Among the key environmental thematic action plans are the NAPA, NBSAP and NAP. There are a number of sectoral policies, programmes and plans whose implementation are crucial to achieving the policy objectives of the KIEP. These include, among others, the National Energy Policy, the National Water Resources Policy and Implementation Plan 2008 coordinated by the Ministry of Public Works and Utilities (MPWU); relevant environmental health programs that are coordinated by the Ministry of Health and Medical Services (MHMS); relevant environment education programs by the Ministry of Education (MoE); eco-tourism programs of the Ministry of Communication, Transport and Tourism Development (MCTTD) and the outer island development and cultural preservation programmes of the Ministry of Internal and Social Affairs (MISA). 

      3.1       Climate Change 

                  Background: 

Kiribati is one of the most vulnerable countries to the adverse impacts of climate change. The atolls of Kiribati rise 3-4 meters above mean sea level and are on average, a few hundred meters wide. These atolls are the home of nearly 110,000 (2010 Census) I - Kiribati people with their distinct culture. Inundation and erosion destroy key areas of land within the already small land area of each atoll, and storm surges contaminate the fresh groundwater lens, which is vital for health and survival. Fresh groundwater lens is also the only main source of freshwater resources in Kiribati. An economic evaluation of the costs of climate change related risks has been estimated to be 35% of Kiribati GDP (NAPA 2007). The estimate takes into account only the potential impacts of climate change on coastal zone (US$7-$13 million a year) and water resources (US$1-$3 million a year). In 1998 the GDP was US$47 million (WB 2000). 

The United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) entered into force as an international agreement on March 1994 and came into force specifically for Kiribati in May 1995, with an Initial National Communication to the Convention in 1999. The Convention sets out blueprints for the common but differentiated responsibilities of parties to address the global concern of climate change. Least developed countries (LDCs) and Small Island Developing States (SIDS) are among the countries that are considered most vulnerable to climate change. They are so, because in the case of the former, their special circumstances make them unable to meet the costs of adaptation needs, and the latter because of their physical susceptibility to the effects of climate change. Kiribati is in both of these groups.  

The Government of Kiribati has embarked in the process of mainstreaming climate change adaptation (CCA) and disaster risk reduction (DRR) in its national development processes through a series of initiatives: the launch of the Kiribati Adaptation Program (KAP) in 2003, the adoption of a Climate Change Adaptation Policy Note and a Climate Change Adaptation Strategy in 2005, the consultation process and consequent adoption of a National Adaptation Program of Action (NAPA) in 2007 and the ongoing implementation phase of KAP. In addition, the Kiribati Development Plan (KDP) which covers the period 2007-2011 recognizes the potentially high cost and effects of climate change on economic growth and social development.  The KDP also recognizes the central importance of environment sustainability within the development processes by allocating environment as one of its key Policy areas, within which climate change is reflected. The recently adopted National Water Resource Policy (2008) defines the priority issues in the water sector taking into account climate change adaptation. Priority issues in the energy sector, given in the Kiribati National Energy Policy, also takes into consideration climate change mitigation and environment safeguards.   

Legislation and policies 

• Disaster Act 1993 
• Climate Change Adaptation Policy Statement and Strategy 2004 
• National Water Resource Policy and National Water Resource Implementation Plan 2008 
• (National Sanitation Policy and National Sanitation Implementation Plan 2008) 
• Kiribati National Energy Policy 2009 
• Government Policy Statement for 2007-2011 
• Draft National Framework on Climate Change 2010 

Contextual Notes: 

• Disaster risk reduction is a separate but similar strategy 
• Vulnerability of outer islands need to be completed and well documented to inform decisions for future adaptation options
• The context of this Policy should focus on priorities that are oriented to environmental management in support of the National Climate Change Framework and the overall Kiribati Development Plan 

Sources used to framework: 

• NAPA 2007 
• Climate Change information page in the Environment and Conservation Division website http://www.environment.gov.ki/
• KAPII various outcome documents 2006 - 2010 
• MELAD Ministry Operational Plan (MOP) 2009 – 2011 
• Kiribati Development Plan 2008 – 2011 
• Kiribati Energy Policy 2009 
• Kiribati National Capacity Self- Assessment to the Rio Convention Report 2009 
• Draft Kiribati Meteorological Service Strategic Plan 2012-2018 
• Kiribati government climate change portal http://www.climate.gov.ki/
• Initial national communication 1999 (second to be presented in Durban 2011) 

Based on the above information and national consultations, climate change was recognized as a prominent threat on the environment and therefore need to be integrated as one of the key policy areas of the Strategic Environment Policy and its Plan for the period 2012-2015.  This climate change area has an overall goal and three main thematic operational goals which are set out in the matrix below.  The table outlines strategies, targets, indicators and potential implementing partners distinctive to each goal.  These objectives include: 

1. Improving knowledge, information and national adaptive capacity to respond and adapt to climate change. 
2. To build on existing adaptation measures and continue with implementation of concrete adaptation measures aimed at protecting the environment as a whole system and its services. 
3. To implement mitigation measures and strengthen synergies between climate change mitigation and environment sustainability. 

3.2 Island Biodiversity Conservation and Management 

                  Background: 

 Island biodiversity in this context means all terrestrial and marine ecosystems, all plants and animal species and varieties found in these ecosystems including the knowledge, uses, beliefs and language that the people of Kiribati have in relation to their ecosystems and species.  Biodiversity conservation and management promotes the concept of sustainable use and supports sustainable development. Based on various national, outer islands and household surveys undertaken as part of the formulation of the Kiribati National Biodiversity Strategies and Actions Plan from 1996 – 2004, it was  confirmed that the current state of biodiversity in Kiribati is being degraded physically, socially, economically, politically and even judicially.  

 As a low-lying nation, Kiribati cannot afford to sit back and let this degradation continue. If the biodiversity is not conserved or used sustainably, and if appropriate traditional sustainable natural resources management practices are not revived, and if the traditional knowledge and language are not maintained or strengthened, then future development would not be able to sustain and support the people and the liveability of the atoll islands, in the long-term. The main key in the whole process is the resource owners and users at the island and village levels, who hold the long-lasting key to effective biodiversity conservation and management.  

 The government of Kiribati recognizes the importance of conserving biological diversity and has become a State Party by ratifying the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) on 16^thAugust 1994 and the Treaty on Plant Genetic Resource for Food and Agriculture (ITPGFRA) on 13^thDecember 2005. The ITPGFRA focuses specifically on conservation and utilization of food crop species to sustain food security and improve health. As a Party, Kiribati has obligations to meet the objectives of the CBD and ITPGFRA at the national and international levels. 

For the CBD this is being provided for through the formulation and implementation of the National Biodiversity Strategies and Action Plan (NBSAP) and the National Reports submitted to the CBD Secretariat. Further, the Government of Kiribati is also a State Party to the World Heritage Convention and is in the process of accession to the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands. These are all biodiversity related MEAs that recognize the importance of biodiversity conservation, management and its sustainable use for the benefits of Kiribati and her people.  

 A number of reports were instrumental in the formulation of this strategic action framework which includes, among others, the Kiribati NBSAP; 4^thNational Report to CBD; MELAD Operational Plan and the KDP 2008 – 2011.  The issues reflected in the 

matrix below could further be expanded to address the emerging and new issues associated with recent and future researches and explorations. 

      3.3       Waste Management and Pollution Control 

 Background:

 The main types of wastes and pollutants threatening biodiversity and human health within Kiribati are those typically associated with urbanised communities (e.g. solid wastes and sewage discharges) and from agricultural activities and port areas (including nutrients, sediments, pesticides and anti-foulants). Lack of integrated management of these pollutants is a key threat to Kiribati’s environment. The problem is exacerbated in an atoll nation like Kiribati due to its small size, high water table and rising sea levels and the lack of cover soil to bury wastes. Innovative approaches to waste management are necessary that not only minimise the waste generated, but also seek ways in which the waste can be usefully and, if possible, economically re-used. 

Kiribati has adopted the Waste Hierarchy approach in its management of waste starting with avoidance and minimisation first then looking at the opportunities for reuse, recycling and recovery before finally considering safe disposal. The focus must be firmly on avoidance and minimisation, reuse, recycling and recovery because safe disposal options are very limited or non-existent on atolls. 

The Kaoki Maange system of deposits and refunds on used aluminium cans, PET (Polyethylene terephthalate) bottles and lead-acid batteries has proved spectacularly successful and provides an example to follow.  It has created a new business, employed people, provided some unemployed with a small cash income, costs the government nothing and has removed used aluminium cans, PET plastic bottles, and car batteries from the atoll.  Kiribati’s deposit refund system has received recognition across the Pacific and is widely seen as a “best practice” recycling system. 

Organic matter comprises about 80% of the waste composition in Kiribati national waste stream. Unmanaged disposal of organic waste is an alarming issue. It rapidly fills the dumpsite, and breaks down to generate noxious leachate and methane gas. However, if managed well it can enhance the aesthetic value of the environment, and provide organic fertilizer for agricultural usage and monetary incentives for the local community who should know that waste is a resource not a burden to them. Addressing organic matter should be a high priority due to its high generation rate and volume.  

The management of chemicals and hazardous wastes poses a special challenge. Safe handling, storage, transportation and disposal through the proper facilities, equipment and competent personnel are essential. This should include the control of pollution from industrial and commercial sites. Where safe disposal cannot be carried out in Kiribati, arrangements should be put in place for proper disposal outside Kiribati. 

Kiribati is faced with the risk of a pollution incident through its use of chemicals, hazardous and noxious substances, and refined fossil fuels. Measures need to be put in place that addresses a pollution incident in the planning, preparedness and response capabilities. The National Marine Pollution Advisory Committee has drafted a national marine spill contingency plan (NATPLAN) that addresses the discharge of oils, chemical and HNS. The need to have proper equipment and competent personnel are essential.  

Improvement on clean water supply for the increasing population on South Tarawa and Betio require additional sources beside Bonriki and Buota water reserves. Water desalination plants are currently being considered; however these plants would require a mechanism to safely dispose concentrated brine during low tide meaning they have to store this waste water for approximately two hours on average, meaning holding tanks are needed. However, there is no land available on which to place storage tanks and the waste water must be disposed of as it is produced. Its impact on the marine environment is not yet known. A similar case is waste water from a tuna loining factory that is currently under construction at the Betio wharf on South Tarawa. For this, some of the important questions, among others, to address are to what extent the coastal marine environment will be protected; and what are the mechanisms, measures and processes in place to address these issues in order to achieve the aim of managing and controlling waste and pollution. 

The key to a cleaner Kiribati is public pride and a social attitude against waste and pollution. Government enforcement is expensive and can never be everywhere.  The best option is to change public behaviour through increased community awareness backed with the enforcement of relevant legislations including the Environment Act 2007 where necessary. The public education work done by MELAD through the “Kiribati TeBoboto” and national clean-up campaigns, the very successful car wreck clean-up and the Green Bag Pre-paid System initiative have all begun the slow process of building an attitude of pride and care especially in the urban environment of South Tarawa.  However, this work must be on-going and expanded if we want to achieve our goal of a cleaner and safer environment for all Kiribati people. 

Relevant Principles and Approaches:

There are numerous, internationally recognized principles and approaches that guide chemicals and waste-related activities on-the-ground, in a country setting such as that of Kiribati. In significant part, many of those have arisen or evolved as governments have collaborated in framing chemicals and waste-related management in the context of common, international approaches, declarations and agreements. Those addressed here, among others, are relevant and underlie the Integrated Environmental Policy that Kiribati has adopted: 

Agenda 21 as adopted in Rio de Janeiro in June 1992 recognized the need for integration by recommending coordinated and integrated approaches for the sound management of chemicals and waste.  Chapters 19 and 20 collectively recommended initiatives covering a variety of elements relevant to achieving such integration, including: international assessment of risks, harmonization of chemical classification and labelling, information exchange on chemicals and chemical risks, risk reduction, strengthening national capacities for chemicals and hazardous waste management, prevention and minimization of hazardous waste, and strengthening cooperation in the management of transboundary movements of hazardous waste. 

The Strategic Approach to International Chemicals Management (SAICM), as adopted in 

Dubai in February 2006, also provides guidance consistent with the Waste Hierarchy.  More specifically, SAICM’s objective is “to achieve sound management of chemicals throughout their life-cycle so that, by 2020, chemicals are used in ways that lead to the minimization of significant adverse effects on human health and the environment,” in combination with issue-specific objectives involving risk reduction, knowledge and information, governance, and capacity building and technical cooperation, among other helpful strategies. 

In the context of both Agenda 21 and SAICM, and existing MEAs, a number of principles and approaches that are relevant to achieving sustainable development include, among others: 

Polluter Pays: Ensuring that persons and corporations responsible for pollution bear the full environmental and social costs of their activities, and that those costs are reflected in the market price for goods and services, this important principle will be implemented in applying it to waste management and pollution control measures so that those responsible pay for the prevention, mitigation and other management-related measures; 

Precaution:  As worded in Principle 15 of the Rio Declaration:  “In order to protect the environment, the precautionary approach shall be widely applied by states according to their capabilities.  Where there are serious threats of serious or irreversible damage, lack of full scientific certainty shall not be used as a reason for postponing cost-effective measures to prevent environmental degradation”; 

Life Cycle: This approach addresses the entire life cycle of a product, process, or activity. Life cycle of a chemical means all stages of the life of a chemical with production of the chemical, mixtures, and articles containing the chemical, storage, transport, distribution, export, import, professional use, consumer use, recycling, and waste management of the chemical, mixtures, and articles containing the chemical. It can also serve as a tool for conducting systematic, cradle to grave (or cradle to cradle) analyses to estimate the environmental consequences of alternative materials, designs, manufacturing processes, product use and end-of-life alternatives.  

Prevention: This principle addresses the issue of how harm to human health and the environment can be avoided, based on the recognition that the economic and social costs of avoiding harm and damages are almost always less than those needed to repair, treat, or compensate afterwards. Prevention can be achieved through measures such as bans, restrictions, and technology standards to reduce or eliminate releases from intentional and unintentional production and use; 

Substitution:  When a chemical product may cause risks to human health or the environment, it should be avoided if there are less dangerous products or processes that can reasonably be used instead, making use of the more dangerous substance unnecessary.  

As such, it serves as an explicit component of integrated chemicals management that helps focus attention on informing, increasing awareness, and educating the public about alternatives and alternative processes; and 

 Transparency, Participation and Governance:  As enunciated in Rio Principle 10, and elaborated comprehensively in the Aarhus Convention, these approaches define public participation as being based on three pillars – access to information (including “right to know”), access to decision making, and access to justice. Key elements of the first two pillars are embedded in most MEAs, while access to justice is mostly addressed in national law, although all three pillars are prominently embedded in the European crafted, international Aarhus Convention. 

      3.4       Resources Management 

Background 

Key environmental issues for the management of lands, water and coastal resources of Kiribati are extensively documented in the various existing government policies and planning documents. These include, among others, the National Action Plan to Address Land Degradation and Droughts 2007, MELAD’s Ministry Operational Plan 2008-2011, the State of the Environment reports of 1994 and 2002, the National Water Resources Policy 2008 and the National Water Resources Implementation Plan 2008. 

The environmental issues for resource management are acute  in the nation’s capital, South Tarawa and  Kiritimati Island where the narrow, vulnerable and highly populated low-lying atolls have experienced declining environmental quality through severe shoreline erosion, ground water contamination and coastal and lagoon pollution under the pressures of growing population and expanding urbanisation. Populations including illegal squatter settlements continue to increase in already over-crowded areas and close to designated water reserves such as in Bonriki, South Tarawa. Increasing solid wastes, sewage and liquid waste discharges overwhelm the capacities of disposal and management systems and continue to threaten lagoon ecosystems and the groundwater lens. Increasing domestic sand mining and land reclamation compounds the erosion and vulnerability of the shorelines and coastal areas to frequent storm surges and sea-level rise. Options are also under investigation for mineral mining including lagoon dredging of aggregate to replace domestic sand mining and the development of deep seabed mineral deposits. 

In the last two decades, legislation, policies and plans of government have been developed in an effort to address these key resource management issues. These support efforts to control population, strengthen the resilience of the environment, in particular the foreshore, curb illegal sand mining and limit lagoon resources extraction, promote proper waste collection and disposal, improve soil quality and reverse land degradation and protect freshwater resources. Legislations that are directly relevant or with relevant provisions to resource management include, among others, the Environment Act 1999 (as amended 2007) and the approved EIA Regulations; the Lands Ordinance 1977; the State Lands Acquisition Ordinance 1977; the Native Land Ordnance 1977; the Foreshore and 

Land Reclamation Ordinance 1977; the Land Planning Ordinance 1977; the State Lands Act 2001 and the Squatters Act 2005. Among the key planning frameworks that were recently developed to address resource management issues include, the NAP 2007, the National Water Resources Management Plan 2008, and the ESAT 2009. 

The strategic environment priorities for resource management in the next four years will largely focus on strengthening the implementation of key environmental principles, regulations and relevant environment and development plans that support the sustainable development, protection and management of the non-living land, water, coastal and mineral resources of Kiribati. 

      3.5       Environmental Governance 

Goal: To advance the development of capacities and systems for implementing effective environmental governance 

Background 

The modern governance and administration of Kiribati’s environment was formally commissioned with the establishment of an Environment Unit by the Government of Kiribati in 1994. In the last twenty years this Unit has grown into the Environment and Conservation Division that coordinate various environmental thematic programs that is supported by various multi-stakeholders committees and collaborating organisations. 

Environmental governance involves not only this formal role of the government but also encompasses the ways non-governmental groups, community organisations and the private sector are involved in the development and management of the environment including the ecosystem goods and services. Effective environmental governance is necessary for communities to balance their development and environmental needs and respond effectively and creatively to the challenges and opportunities of environmental protection and management in Kiribati. 

Key aspects of environmental governance that are considered under this section include the effective participation and involvement of stakeholders in the generation of knowledge and information and their application in decision making processes; awareness raising and implementation of environmental policies and legislations and the monitoring and communication and mainstreaming of environmental knowledge and information into national development planning processes. 

Other related strategic priorities for environmental governance are also defined and supported under the thematic areas above. Therefore, the priorities in this section serve as core generic environmental governance measures to compliment and strengthen the integration of governance policy actions in the four thematic areas above. 

      4.         HUMAN RESOURCES AND FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS 

The effective implementation of the KIEP will require strengthening of the ECD and the wider network of partner agencies and stakeholders, whose portfolios overlap with enhancing and supporting the environment protection and management portfolio, as well as in the position to achieve the objectives of this KIEP from their respective sectors. This will include considerations for additional staff; a possible expansion of existing institutional arrangements especially to cater for the outer islands and an increase in financial resources to facilitate and implement policy actions on the ground. 

The expansion of human resources and financial requirements for environmental administration to meet the implementation needs of this policy will also be guided on the direction and priority of the government’s public sector reform processes, including the streamlining of national agencies functions and operations and a potential decentralisation and strengthening of the administration at the island groups and local levels. 

The KIEP will assist in identifying key areas where funding proposals can be made to donor partners. It will also serve as a useful guide through which donors, regional and United Nations organisations and other partners can design their contributions and assistance to protect and manage Kiribati’s environment to support livelihoods, human health and the economy through sustainable development.  

5.         IMPLEMENTATION, MONITORING AND REVIEWING SCHEDULE 

The implementation of the KIEP will take effect from the time that it is approved by Cabinet. Its strategic priorities guide the ECD component of MELAD’s MOP and contribute to the KDP. It will be implemented through annual work-plans and budgets of the MELAD-ECD and is evaluated both at the operational performance levels and at the strategic impact levels during the duration of the KDP. Operational performance indicators are defined in the policy’s strategic priorities and are to be monitored and reviewed annually. Strategic impacts indicators will be defined as part of Kiribati’s State of the Environment monitoring and reviewing system. The SOE reviews will be carried out at the end of the KDP as the environment component of the KDP review and will furnish the comprehensive information for the formulation of the environmental policy priorities and targets for the new KDP. Strategic priorities have been defined in the policy for organising and building the capacities of MELAD-ECD to effectively monitor and evaluate KIEP at both the operational performance and strategic impact levels. 

6. REFERENCES 

The following are key sources of information and guidance that were used in the development of the policy and the strategic plan. 

• MELAD 2007. NATIONAL ADAPTATION PROGRAM OF ACTION (NAPA). 

South Tarawa, Kiribati. http://www.environment.gov.ki/

• GOK 2007. Republic of Kiribati: Kiribati Country Report to the Conference of Parties (COP) of the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD). South Tarawa, Kiribati: Government of Kiribati: Ministry of Environment, Lands and Agriculture Development. 
• NBSAP 2005 
• NAP 2007 
• KAP 2 outcome documents 2006 - 2010 
• MELAD Ministry Operational Plan 2009 – 2011 
• GOK 2008. The Kiribati Development Plan 2008 - 2011: Enhancing economic growth for sustainable development. Bairiki, South Tarawa: Government of Kiribati: Ministry of Finance and Economic Development. 
• Kiribati’s Energy Policy 2009 
• Kiribati National Capacity Self- Assessment to the Rio Convention Report 2009 
• Draft Kiribati Meteorological Service Strategic Plan 2012-2018 
• Kiribati government climate change portal http://www.climate.gov.ki/
• Initial national communication 1999 (second to be presented in Durban 2011) 
• Comments from the Review Template of the KDP 4 2008-2011 related to the Environmental Management component