This Act provides for the sustainable use of natural resources, economic development and environmental conservation.
The Act provides for the establishment of the National Environment Commission which shall be an independent authority and the highest decision making body on all matters relating to the environment and its management in the country. Powers and functions of the Commission shall include: prevent environmental harm, including pollution, and protect environmental quality; waste management; enforce and implement policies, plans, etc. for environmental protection; adopt regulations and rules including standards for environmental quality, emission limits and products; recommend to the Parliament to declare plant or animal species as endangered species, and declare parts of the country to be national parks, wild life reserves, protected forests, etc.; establish regulatory controls over the import and use of genetically modified organisms; and designate any ministries, organizations, agencies or committees to carry out its functions.
The Commission further shall aim at reducing deforestation through the use of clean energy and alternative technologies.
The Act states that to promote environment-friendly technologies, codes of practice and eco-labelling, the government will provide financial incentives for environment protection and compliance.
The Act also contains offences and penalties and provisions of miscellaneous nature.