CEPA OFFICIALLY SWORN IN COUNCIL MEMBERS

BY RICKY ISRAEL

THE Conservation and Environment Protection Authority (CEPA) has officially sworn in its 7th Environment Council members today, in Port Moresby, giving Papua New Guinea a stronger team to guide important decisions on protecting the country’s environment.

The council is chaired by CEPA Managing Director Jude Tukulia. Other members include Professor Kaul Gena, an expert in environmental chemistry, engineering and waste minimisation; Jack Kariko, an expert in environmental policy and law; Tom Pringel, an expert in sustainable resource and economic management; Professor Simon Saulei, an expert in ecosystem conservation and biodiversity; and the council’s only female member, Ms Patricia Kila, an expert in socio economic and social impact assessment.

The members were appointed by the National Executive Council and will serve for the next five years.
Established under the Environment Act 2000, the Environment Council is an important governing body that provides independent advice on environmental policies and major development projects in Papua New Guinea.

CEPA Managing Director and Environment Council Chairman Jude Tukulia says the council will provide expert advice on environmental decisions, especially for major projects that may impact the environment.

“The council provides sound advice to the Director of Environment (CEPA), and the Minister on the regulation and management of our environment,” Mr Tukulia said.

He says the council will review Environmental Impact Statements for major mining, petroleum and other large projects before advising whether environmental permits should be approved or if more work is required by the developers to protect the environment.

Mr Tukulia says the appointment of the council is timely, as there was no council in place when he took office.
“When I took office, there was no council, so I decided to install this council. Under my leadership, this is the second council that we will have in operation since 2023,” he said.

Meanwhile, speaking on behalf of Environment, Conservation and Climate Change Minister John Kaupa, Minister Kaupa’s First Secretary John Ninkama says the council’s professional expertise will help the government make informed decisions that balance development with environmental protection.

He says protecting Papua New Guinea’s environment is a shared responsibility and having highly qualified members on the council will help guide decisions that protect the country’s forests, rivers and ecosystems while supporting responsible development.

The new Environment Council will serve a five year term and provide advice on key environmental decisions affecting Papua New Guinea’s future.