Congo Adopts New Decree on Environmental Impact Assessments

The Republic of Congo has adopted a draft decree setting out conditions and procedures for conducting environmental and social impact studies.

The new decree replaces the previous regulation dated November 20, 2009. It aims to provide an updated regulatory framework aligned with Congo’s economic diversification and sustainable development goals.

The decree outlines requirements for project developers to follow when preparing impact studies and sets technical guidelines for consulting firms responsible for conducting evaluations. It also establishes oversight mechanisms to ensure monitoring and enforcement by public authorities.

The regulation is part of broader efforts by the Congolese government to strengthen environmental governance amid global climate challenges. It also reflects the country’s commitment to placing environmental considerations at the core of its development planning.

“The decree gives the administration the tools to monitor and control environmental integrity, ecosystems and public health in areas affected by development projects,” said Arlette Soudan-Nonault, Minister of Environment, Sustainable Development and the Congo Basin.