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On-site Visits
Depending on the nature of the complaint, the Committee conducts on-site visit investigations to ascertain facts alleged in complaints and make appropriate recommendations for action. These visits involve the following activities:
a. Observation
b. Photographic documentation
c. Taking scientific samples and
d. Interviews with the main parties in the complaint and other interested parties.
In the case of scientific analysis, the Committee may co-opt experts depending on the nature of the complaint. It gives interim recommendations where it suspects a possibility of irreversible environmental damage. Through on-site visit investigations, the Committee provides a forum for public participation, which facilitates decision making on environmental matters at the community level and the involvement of different stakeholders in the environmental management process.
- Public Hearings
The Committee conducts public hearings from time to time where it deems necessary. A public hearing is a forum in which parties appear before the NECC and are given a chance to present their concerns about a complaint. All hearings are open to members of the public and are conducted in a cost effective manner, using non-technical language to facilitate participation as widely as possible. The hearings provide a quick and effective forum for conflict resolution.
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Consultative Meetings
The Committee has been conducting consultative meetings in environmental matters that involve a cross-section of stakeholders. The meetings provide a channel through which various stakeholders amicably agree on mechanisms for the sustainable use of natural resources. The outcomes of these meetings, if adopted, would help assure sustainable use of natural resources.