Definition of Key Terms
- Alienable or Disposable Lands: Public lands available for titling or lease, not needed for forestry.
- Environmental Impact Statement (EIS): Documentation of environmental impact assessment detailing effects on human welfare and ecology.
- Environmental Compliance Certificate (ECC): Permit certifying compliance with EIS and that fishpond development will not cause unacceptable environmental harm.
- Environmental Clearance: Certification that existing fishponds meet environmental standards.
- Fishpond Development Projects: Aquaculture in mangrove ecosystems including prawn, shrimp, seaweed, oyster, mussel farming, saltbeds, and related.
- Fishpond Lease Agreement (FLA): State-granted lease for raising fish on public lands.
- Mangrove: Coastal tidal flat forest in brackish water.
- Project Description: Document detailing the fishpond project.
- EIA Scoping Guidelines: Guidelines describing project impacts and mitigation measures.
Coverage
- Applies to all existing and new fishpond projects regardless of size located on alienable lands or mangrove forest lands zoned for such use.
Application Procedures
- Existing fishpond operators with one hectare or more must apply for Environmental Clearance within six months to avoid penalties.
- New fishpond projects must secure an ECC through the EIS System.
- ECC applications for projects up to one hectare are processed and issued by DENR Regional Executive Directors.
- ECC applications exceeding one hectare undergo preliminary evaluation and ocular inspection by DENR regional offices, then endorsement to EMB for final decision.
Coordination with Other Government Agencies
- DENR regional offices must coordinate with local government officials and other agencies to withhold permits for fishpond projects lacking ECC compliance.
Monitoring Scheme
- EMB-DENR will conduct regular environmental impact monitoring of fishpond projects starting one year after ECC issuance and annually thereafter.
Penalties
- Violations of the Order are subject to penalties under applicable laws and regulations.
Effectivity
- The Order takes immediate effect upon issuance.
Project Description Outline for ECC Application
- Requires detailed proponent information including contact details.
- Description of project purpose, total land area, layout, and process.
- Detailed description of existing environmental conditions (water, soil, biota).
- Prediction of environmental impacts such as mangrove destruction, water pollution, soil erosion, flooding.
- Proposed mitigating measures such as reforestation, wastewater treatment.
- Current status of project development.
EIA Scoping Guidelines for New Fishpond Projects
- Complete project description with location maps, scale, estimated costs, and work programs.
- Thorough assessment of existing environment including land classification, vegetation, soil properties, climate, hydrology, water quality, and socio-economic factors.
- Identification of environmental impacts on land, surface water, atmosphere, and community health.
- Mitigation plans addressing reforestation, chemical use control, and pollution management.
- Project proponent's signature for authenticity and responsibility.