Introduction Environmental protection and conservation continues to be an integral component of the country's development process. In the preceding National Development Plans a steady build up of environmental concerns were identified and addressed. The 5th National Development Plan (1986-1990) embodied the policy on conservation and protection of tropical forest and biodiversity. On the other hand the 6th NDP (1991-1995) and 7th NDP (1996-2000) provided directions and strategies for programmes and activities relating to environment management by the incorporation of a comprehensive National Environment Strategy.
The strategy had provided a basis for long-term policies and actions on the need to protect and conserve the country's environment from pollution and excessive exploitation of natural resources. At the same time the existing administrative mechanism was also strengthened to better co-ordinate environmental programmes undertaken by various agencies.
For reason of prior importance attached to environmentally sound and sustainable development, the country has been blessed with a relatively clean and healthy environment. With the exception of the smoke haze episode caused by forest fires affecting Brunei Darussalam in September 1997 and Jan-May 1998 and widespread floods in 1999, we have not experienced other major widespread pollution or environmental problems. Apart from the general degradation of environmental air quality, the smoke haze episodes also had significant socio-economic and health impacts. The experience has also thought us that remedial programmes are costly affairs. These events have served as a reminder on the need to have better appreciation of the possible environmental consequences of our actions including development projects and the need to have in place monitoring, preventive and mitigating measures. Just as the effects of most environmental pollution have no physical boundary, environmental protection and conservation too requires concerted and co-ordinated efforts from all sectors of society – government, business and corporate community, general public, youth and children. The importance of educating and inculcating the public with the right concept of environment protection, proper use and management of resources as well as minimising waste need the participation of not only the government but also the private and other non-governmental organisation. State of the environment: 1996 to 2000 Atmosphere With the exception of severe haze episodes in 1998, general air quality as measured with the Pollutant Standard Index (PSI) has remained good and there is no visible sign that general air quality is deteriorating. Several technical, institutional and legal measures have been instituted to address air pollution concerns in the country. - An ambient Air Quality Monitoring Station (AQMS) was established in Bandar Seri Begawan in February 1997. At the same time additional particulate matter (PM10) monitoring stations were also set up in all the four districts. In addition to ascertaining the country's state of air quality, it also functions as an early warning system and provides important information for strategic policy purposes.
- The National Committee on Haze that co-ordinates the formulation and implementation of policy, programmes and actions to address forest fires and haze problem was set up in February 1998.
- A dynamic National Haze Action Plan was also developed and activated incorporating the actions plans of various individual departments that amongst others laid out the preventive, monitoring and mitigating measures.
- In May 1998, the legal provision relating to open burning was strengthened.
- An Environment Disaster Fund was initiated by the private sector was established.
The introduction of 100% lead free gasoline in March 2000 The petroleum industry has initiated various efforts to improve their environmental performance that include controls on gaseous emissions. The industry adopts internationally recognised standards and environmental management systems such as ISO 14000. In view of the country's drive towards industrial expansion it is vital that environmental consideration is integrated into industrial development planning and implementation. To sustain the present air quality future major industrial development need to adopt clean production technologies and practices. Apart from the oil and gas sector, vehicle exhaust emissions is the other major source of air pollutants. Even though the rate of annual increment of vehicles have declined since 1995, the total number of vehicles have nevertheless continued to increase from 167,790 in 1995 to 202,244 in 1999. However improvement and expansion of public transport and roads system has to an extent helped to alleviate traffic pollution. The introduction of fully unleaded gasoline in March 2000 has also diminished vehicular lead emission. Nevertheless, the trend of an increasing number of diesel vehicle ownership warrant special attention as it is widely recognised that diesel vehicles exhaust emissions are potentially more polluting as compared to petrol vehicles. Diesel fuel registered vehicles comprised 15% of total vehicles registered in 1995 whilst in 1999 diesel fuelled registered vehicles comprised 25.5% of the total vehicles registered in 1999. Therefore, this matter need to be addressed and tighter controls on vehicular exhaust emissions need to be in place, especially for diesel vehicles. With regard to protection of the ozone layer, a country programme have been developed. The document details the necessary actions that need to be implemented in order for the country to be able to phase out consumption of the ozone depleting substances as stipulated by the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer. Among the measures introduced include restrictions on new installations of equipment that are dependent on ozone depleting substances and the promotion of alternative substances and technologies. An import/export permit for ozone depleting substances is also to be introduced to further control consumption of ozone depleting substances. Water Providing adequate and clean supply of portable water to the growing population and development activities continues to be a priority. Additional reservoirs have been constructed and existing water treatment plants have also been upgraded to meet growing demand. To safeguard the source, portable water catchment areas have also been gazetted and designated as protected areas. Apart from industrial and agricultural effluents, domestic effluents too poses a threat to river water quality. In light of this the installation, upgrading and extension of sewerage services have continued to be implemented in urban areas. Sewage treatment and disposal facilities have been installed in newly built settlements like National Housing Scheme areas and Kampung Ayer settlement projects. Apart from the construction of new treatment works, upgrading and extension of the existing facilities for better quality effluents have also been undertaken. On the other hand in un-sewered areas, all buildings are required to be served with either septic tanks or in-situ package sewerage treatment works. Despite the many completed and ongoing efforts, the pollution threat to river water quality especially within the vicinity of Kampong Ayer still require further attention. To prevent further decline in the river water quality further precautionary measures need to undertaken:
- Solid wastes disposal in Kampong Ayer has to be addressed.
- Regulatory and enforcement measures relating to effluent discharge and wastes disposal need to be strengthened.
- Large-scale developments that include housing estates, commercial and industrial premises have to be served with in-situ package sewage treatment plant.
Septic tanks need to be serviced and desludged on a regular basis in order for tanks to perform well.
- To intensify monitoring of water quality
To promote public environmental awareness The oil and gas industry is a significant producer of industrial effluents and source of oil spills. Nonetheless they have taken various initiatives to improve their environmental performance and treatment capabilities. The concern regarding to waste oil disposal has also led to the establishment of a waste oil treatment and recycling centre in the country. Land The natural resources of Brunei Darussalam have remained largely undeveloped where 70% of the total land area still remains as protected forest. Due to unfavourable economic situations, the conversion of land to urban and other associated uses has not been significant over the past few years. To a large extent, the downturn has relieved land and natural resources from development pressure. However this situation can only be temporary if adequate control and mitigation measures are not undertaken in development planning and implementation. However the neglect of environmental considerations in the planning and implementation of development in environmentally sensitive areas have given rise to significant environmental impacts like erosion, sedimentation and an increase in surface run-off causing problems like flooding and landslides on hill slopes occurring in some locality. The practice of clearing land using fires have also contributed to loss of vegetation cover and erosion problems in addition to causing localised air pollution. At times these problems threatens human safety, health and well-being of the populace. Therefore it is vital that efforts to integrate environmental aspects into development planning through mechanisms such as Environmental Impact Assessment (E.I.A.) and Environmental Management Systems be undertaken effectively. Although the current environment related laws do not mandate E.I.A., environmental considerations have been incorporated in the country development planning and project implementation. There are a number of projects that have implemented E.I.A. that have either been imposed upon them through administrative procedures or undertaken willingly by responsible project proponents. As Brunei gears itself to industrialisation, it is timely that a set procedure for requiring E.I.A. for major development projects be institutionalised. Apart from concerns arising from development of new land areas the concern relating to contaminated land is also an emerging issue. The main focus is presently given to address land contamination issues relating to legacy dumpsites Urban/Built Environment The process of urbanisation has continued to proceed albeit in a slower manner than previously. The urbanisation process characterised by steady urban population growth brings with it a myriad and far-reaching environmental impacts that pose a threat to the urban populace and environment quality if the impacts are left unchecked. Solid Waste Solid waste continues to be a persistent issue for most urban areas in the country. A growing population and an increase in development activities has been accompanied by an increase in the amount of domestic and industrial wastes generated. As a consequence, some existing disposal sites have already surpassed their capacity. For Brunei Muara District the planning for a new engineered sanitary landfill is in it's inception. Development of an engineered sanitary landfill will serve as an initial step leading to the establishment of an integrated waste disposal arrangement. With regard to present waste collection services, for settlements on land there is the house to house waste collection service provided by several private collectors. These services which are only being utilised by a relatively small number of households need to be further encouraged. Alternatively, households may also choose to dispose their wastes to roadside communal bin centres provided in several strategic locations. Despite the availability of the above services and facilities as well as the ongoing efforts to promote cleanliness and awareness through cleaning campaigns, media promos and talks, indiscriminate dumping and littering are still evident and burning of wastes remains a common practise by some households. In addressing the problems associated with solid waste disposal in Kampung Ayer, house to house wastes collection services and clearing of floating rubbish have since been introduced in Kampung Saba Tengah, Kampung Saba Ujong and Kampung Burong Pinggai as well as the newly built Kampung Ayer Settlements which are Kampung Bolkiah A, Kampung Bolkiah B and Kampung Sungai Bunga. Public support in utilising the available facilities and services is necessary in order to achieve the desired results. At the same time efforts to extend waste disposal facilities and services to other parts of Kampung Ayer also need to be pursued. In dealing with solid waste special attention has been given to plastics. This is because of the hazards that plastic poses if they are not properly disposed. Littering of plastic bags and plastic packaging is also a major nuisance. In an effort to reduce the use of plastic bags and plastic packaging a campaign has been launched to raise consumers and retailers awareness on the issue. As part of the campaign, Butra-Heidelberger Cement has switched to paper bags to pack their cement whilst 7 superstores and several textile and bookshops have made pledges to reduce their use of plastic packaging by 20%. Despite the many and ongoing efforts, the problems associated with solid wastes need further attention. This amongst others include the following:
- To improve the existing facilities and services
- To promote the use of better performing technology
- To strengthen regulatory and enforcement measures
To promote public awareness and support Prospect and Programmes: 2001 - 2005 Policy Objectives and Strategies The signs of environmental stress on our air, water, land and ecosystem are evident around us. As environmental degradation can undermine socio-economic development and at times threatens human safety, health and well-being, efforts to integrate environmental aspects into development planning is vital in view of our drives towards a balanced socio-economic development. Environmentally sound and sustainable development will continue to be an integral component of the Eighth National Development Plan (NDP). At the turn of the new millennium we are faced with the challenge to sustain and build on the environmental progress that we achieved to date. 'Towards a Better Quality Environment', the Eighth NDP environmental programmes will endeavour to:
- maintain sustainable utilisation of natural resources;
- prevent and minimise negative impacts on the environment arising from population growth and human activities;
maintain the proper balance between socio-economic development goals and the need for sound and sustainable environment quality. To achieve the above objectives, the policy directions and strategies, which are based on the National Environment Strategy, are as follows:
Raise Environmental Consciousness Activities such as seminars, training workshops, campaigns, exhibitions and media promos to enhance public awareness will continue to be implemented. The establishment of the Environment Fund, availability of 'green' products and services in the market, voluntary adoption of cleaner production practice by the private sector, participation of the general public and private sector in environment activities, and involvement of the business community in reducing plastic wastes demonstrates the increasing awareness of both the government and the public on the need to protect the environment. Government efforts in safeguarding the environment will only produce the desired results with the continued co-operation and support of both the private and general public. Public awareness activities especially for the youth, school children and business community will be further intensified. Integrate Environmental Dimensions in Socio-Economic Planning and Development As the current situation does give cause for concern, it is best to institute the application of an Environmental Impact Assessment (E.I.A.) process in the planning of major developments so that the environmental costs and economic benefits are fully considered and weighed before a project is approved. Ad hoc and advisory assessment are not a satisfactory substitute for an authoritative mechanism and procedure which is required to oversee and ensure that national environmental objectives are met throughout. Over time E.I.A. should be part of the country's development planning process to avoid adverse environmental consequences and unsustainable development. Improve Environment and Natural Resources Assessment and Information Database There is a need for surveys and assessment on the quality and extent of our natural resources to be undertaken on a systematic, periodical and regular basis. A baseline data and information on the state of our environment would provide the means of assessing the trend of our environmental quality and the performance of our environmental endeavours. The monitoring system and programme of our natural resources need to be strengthened and improved so that information is available on the resources endowment and impacts of human activities on the environment on a periodic basis. Strengthen Urban and Rural Environment Improvement Programmes Urban and rural environmental improvement efforts and amenities have to keep pace with population growth, urbanisation trends and economic development, so that the quality of life of the population is not impaired owing to lack of environmental infrastructure and amenities. In 1999 B.S.B. has been accorded as the second cleanest and beautiful city in Asia. To build on the progress achieved to date environmental improvement programme under this plan will continue to: Enhance Environmental Quality Past events of environmental misfortunes have demonstrated that curative or reactive approach is neither efficient nor cost-effective. It is well recognised that in the long run it is cost effective to invest up-front in the planning and design stages to address environmental issues rather than spending more to undertake mitigating and remedial measures which could be at the expense of lives and properties. To enhance the environment quality in Brunei Darussalam emphasis will be given to: Protect Coastal and Marine Environment Resources The conservation of marine resources has steadily increased through the growing participation of the public and private sectors in programme such as turtle conservation. The effectiveness of the programme have also been assisted with the enforcement of a ban on the sales of turtle eggs. Over exploitation of our fish resources is prevented by controlling the equipment, methods and types of fish caught. At the same time, marine life breeding grounds such as mangrove forests and coral reefs are being preserved. Manmade reefs have also been introduced to increase the number of marine life breeding areas. Apart from addressing pollution from ships and off-shore activities further effort to protect our coastal and marine environment will also require addressing land based sources of pollution. Strengthen Regional and International Cooperation Just as the effects of environmental problems transcends national boundary, regional and international co-operation on environmental issue provides an important forum and instrument for Brunei Darussalam environmental enhancement efforts. These are important not only for sharing of information but also of experience and expertise particularly for Brunei where the scientific and technological base need to be further strengthened. To improve the country's technical and managerial capacities for effective management of the environment, it is important that we continue to participate in regional and international environmental programmes.
CONCLUSION Despite the many completed and ongoing efforts, the signs of environmental stress and threats that are evident around us requires further attention. The Government will continue to address an ever-growing environmental challenges brought about by population growth, urbanisation, industrialisation and other socio-economic development. To produce the desired results the continued support, co-operation and commitment of the relevant government agencies and institutions, private organisations and the role of individuals as groups of people in safeguarding the environment is of paramount important.
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