Summary

• EMA issued two Certificates of Environmental Clearance (CECs) on February 26, 2026, described as being processed in “record time.”
• Approvals support Perenco’s recommissioning of a water treatment system on the Amherstia Platform and Superior Hotels’ proposed 109-room hotel in Tarouba.
• EMA says the decisions reflect faster processing while maintaining scientific review and environmental safeguards.

 

By Prior Beharry

TWO Certificates of Environmental Clearance (CECs) have been issued by the Environmental Management Authority (EMA) in what is being described as “record time,” supporting key energy and tourism projects.

In a press release on Monday, the EMA announced the issuance of CECs to Perenco Trinidad and Tobago Limited and Superior Hotels Trinidad and Tobago Limited.

The EMA stated: “These approvals reflect the EMA’s strengthened focus on efficient application processing while upholding rigorous environmental standards, ensuring that national development proceeds responsibly and sustainably.”

The first CEC issued was CEC 7133/2025 to Perenco Trinidad and Tobago Limited for the recommissioning of an existing water treatment system on the Amherstia Platform, located within the Southeast Galeota Block.

“The application was subject to a detailed technical review, including a comprehensive Ecological Risk Assessment supported by hydrodynamic modelling and conservative worst-case discharge scenarios,” the EMA said.

“The CEC was issued on February 26, 2026, well within the statutory timeline, underscoring the EMA’s commitment to timely, accountable decision-making,” it added.

The second CEC, also issued on February 26, was granted to Superior Hotels Trinidad and Tobago Limited. The authority said CEC 7199/2026 was issued for the establishment of a 109-room hotel on 0.5862 hectares of land located off Tarouba Link Road, San Fernando.

The approval, the EMA said, demonstrates its ability to “manage responsible private sector investment while safeguarding environmental resources.”

The EMA also noted that the CEC holder, Mr John Aboud, commended the authority, saying the issuance represented “a record turnaround time for the issuance of a CEC.”

“The issuance of these CECs highlights the EMA’s evolving approach to regulation, one that combines efficiency, scientific rigour and environmental stewardship,” the authority said.