Tuvalu Department of Environment

03/05/2026

Officers from Tuvalu Ozone Depleting Substance (ODS) Project completed a one-week attachment at the Fiji ODS Office from 27 April to 1 May 2026, gaining practical experience in the management of refrigerants.

The training covered key areas such as import and export procedures, permit processing, compliance monitoring, licensing systems, and data management. Participants observed how Fiji regulates controlled substances through strict documentation requirements, quota systems, and approval processes to ensure environmental protection.

The attachment also highlighted ongoing challenges, including non-compliance, illegal imports and gaps in enforcement systems. Key lessons emphasized the importance of strong regulatory frameworks, efficient processes, and regular inspections to ensure safe handling of substances. The knowledge gained will support Tuvalu in strengthening its own systems, improving compliance, and enhancing efforts to protect the environment and meet international obligations.

The Department and the ODS Team extend our sincere appreciation to the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change in Fiji, for approving the Tuvalu team’s visit to work alongside the Fiji Team, and to the Fiji ODS Team for their warm hospitality and valuable knowledge sharing.

16/04/2026

Proposal Submissions Opportunity! GEF SMALL GRANTS PROGRAMME

Have an idea, project, or solution that can make a real impact on environment issues? This is your opportunity to bring it forward. We’re inviting groups/communities and academic institutions to submit their proposals and be part of something meaningful.

Whether it’s innovative, practical, or transformative-we want to hear from you.

🗓️ Submit your proposal and take the first step toward turning your vision into reality.

Don’t miss the chance to showcase your ideas and collaborate on exciting opportunities ahead. Contact TANGO for more details!

09/04/2026

To our incredible team in Niulakita, Aaron Puafitu, Kua Sakaio, PRISMSS and Niulakita Community, thank you for the passion, resilience and hard work you continue to put into the eradication work.

Your commitment to protecting and restoring Niulakita does not go unnoticed.

Wishing you all continued strength, success and safe days ahead. Keep pushing forward, your efforts are truly inspiring!

09/04/2026

Tilia Tima, Acting Director, represented the Department of Environment at the DAS Meeting with the Vaitupu Kaupule and Nanumea Kaupule earlier this week.

The Department advised that, as the agency responsible for the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) process, any proponents of new developments are encouraged to consult the office for further information and guidance to ensure that (the) appropriate procedures and requirements are met.

31/03/2026

One of the major concerns for our islands is the threat posed by invasive alien species. We are grateful to the international, regional, and national efforts that continue to ensure these species are effectively controlled, eradicated, and managed.

Malō to the Tuvalu representative from the Department, Ms. Tiale Panapa, for her commitment and dedication to safeguarding Tuvalu’s biodiversity. We also extend our sincere appreciation to the dedicated Project and Government Officers whose tireless work behind the scenes has made these efforts possible.

10/03/2026

The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) Regional Coordinator, Pipat Panyawut, visited Tuvalu from 2–6 March 2026 to support the work of the Tuvalu National Ozone Unit in strengthening the country’s implementation of the Montreal Protocol.

During the mission, meetings and consultations were held with government agencies, customs officers, refrigeration and air-conditioning technicians, and importers to review progress of ongoing projects, validate data for the National Inventory of used and unwanted controlled substances, and discuss the implementation of the HFC licensing and quota system in 2026.

The visit also included technical training for National Ozone Unit staff, stakeholder consultations on refrigerant lifecycle management, and site visits to refrigeration servicing workshops and large cooling facilities to better understand current practices in Tuvalu.

The Department would like to congratulate the ODS Team for their successful efforts and hard work over the past few weeks. Maloo! 👏🏽

08/03/2026

Throw 🔙 (20/2/26) to when the team visited GEF project sites on Fongafale.

The sites included 2 GEF STAR funded projects and 2 projects funded under GEF small grants programe. We also would like to acknowledge TANGO for the collaboration.

The team also along the way also visited the Market Building development (Agriculture) and monitor progress and activities according to the EIA submitted.

We thank the team for their continuous support and enthusiasm.

28/02/2026

Meet Our Tuvalu Team🌴🇹🇻

Tuvalu was proudly represented at the GEF Expanded Constituency Workshop held in Nadi from 24–27 February 2026.

Our team was comprised of Ag. Director Ms. Tilia Tima, Chemical Management Officer Ms. Emelipelesa Sam Panapa, and Land Degradation Officer Mr. Teuatali Vailopa. They were joined by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Home Affairs, Climate Change and Environment Ms. Pepetua Latasi, Director of Climate Change Mr. Jamie Ovia, and representatives from the Tuvalu Climate Action Network and the Tuvalu Association of Non-Government Organizations Mr. Richard Gokrun and Ms. Maualofa Lauti.

The workshop, organized by the Global Environment Facility Secretariat in collaboration with the Fiji Ministry of Environment and Climate Change, strengthened capacity, enhanced understanding of GEF strategies and policies, and provided a platform to share experiences and lessons learned across the Pacific.

The team thanked the organizers and the Global Environment Facility (GEF) for sponsoring the event and supporting projects in Tuvalu to protect, conserve, and promote environmental sustainability.

17/02/2026

🌿Did you know?

The Chemical Management Unit under the Department looks after (nationally) two conventions that help protect ‘human health and the environment from harmful chemicals’. These conventions guide our work in promoting the safe management and use of chemicals in Tuvalu.

Want to learn more? Copy and paste the homepage link below for more information, or pop by the office if you have questions.

16/02/2026