National Environmental Policy 2004

The National Environmental Policy (2004) provides the overarching framework for environmental management and sustainable development in Malawi. It establishes guiding principles, strategies, and institutional responsibilities for protecting natural resources while supporting socio-economic development. The Policy promotes integration of environmental considerations into national planning and decision-making processes, strengthens environmental governance, and emphasizes public participation, environmental education, and enforcement of environmental standards. It also supports sustainable management of land, water, forests, biodiversity, and climate-related risks. The Policy forms the foundation for environmental legislation, including the Environmental Management Act, and guides Environmental Impact Assessments (EIA), environmental monitoring, and compliance mechanisms across sectors.