Rethinking the regulation of environment impact assessment and precaution in Mauritius

Abstract

As a small island developing state, Mauritius needs to manage its natural assets with a precautionary approach, especially as the tourism industry is one of the main pillars of its economy. While the precautionary principle has no statutory value in Mauritius, it serves as a guiding principle in environmental decision making. Since 1993, the assessment of impact has been mandatory under the Environment Protection Act (EPA) for major development activities, to avoid activities that may have a significant adverse impact on the environment and society. The local impact assessment procedure currently includes two categories of undertakings listed in the EPA, namely the environment impact assessment (EIA) and the preliminary environment report for undertakings with less environmental and socio-economic impact. This article examines the Mauritian EIA regulatory mechanism and seeks to strengthen the EIA process with a precautionary approach, to achieve more effective regulation and implementation.