Vuda project hangs in balance — no decision yet: Tabuya

No decision has been made on the proposed waste-to-energy project at Vuda Point, with the Government stressing that the outcome will be determined strictly by law and evidence.

Minister for Environment Lynda Tabuya told Parliament yesterday that the process was still ongoing and had not reached a conclusion.

“The assessment process is still underway. No decision has been made. Let me repeat that. No decision has been made,” she said.

The project has drawn significant national attention, with strong public interest reflected in hundreds of submissions and thousands of petition signatures.

Ms Tabuya said the process was designed to ensure transparency, independence and public participation, under the Environment Management Act.

“A meeting is not a decision. A proposal is not a permit. A discussion is not an approval,” she said.

She outlined that the EIA process began in September 2025, with a full assessment required due to the scale and potential impact of the project. The report was submitted in March this year and underwent public review until April 22.

According to the Minister, 875 written submissions were received, along with more than 5,600 online petition signatures and over 3,100 paper-based signatures, indicating strong public engagement.

The project has now entered the technical review stage, where all submissions and findings will be assessed before a final determination is made.

Ms Tabuya stressed that the decision could result in approval, approval with conditions, or rejection — and would be subject to appeal.

“There will be no political interference. There will be no predetermined outcome. The decision will be guided by law, informed by evidence, and shaped by consultation,” she said.

She also defended public officers involved in the process, urging that scrutiny remain focused on the project rather than individuals.

“Public officers must be accountable, yes, but they must also be treated with fairness and respect,” she said.

The Vuda waste-to-energy proposal remains one of the most closely watched environmental decisions currently under review.