The Water Authority of Fiji has launched a new Environmental and Social Management System (ESMS) aimed at improving how environmental and social risks are managed in water and wastewater projects across the country.

The initiative, launched on World Environment Day, is designed to ensure that environmental protection, community impacts, and climate resilience are considered at every stage of infrastructure development—from planning and construction through to operation and decommissioning.

Speaking at the launch, Minister for Public Works, Meteorological Services and Transport, Ro Filipe Tuisawau, said the ESMS marks a significant step forward in strengthening governance and accountability within Fiji’s water sector.

“The ESMS institutionalises a structured approach to environmental and social risk management and reinforces the Government’s commitment to climate-resilient and inclusive infrastructure development,” he said.

The system provides WAF with a formal framework to identify, assess and manage environmental and social issues associated with infrastructure projects while ensuring compliance with both national regulations and international standards.

A key focus of the ESMS is addressing growing climate-related challenges affecting Fiji’s water infrastructure, including flooding and ageing assets, while supporting the goals outlined in the Water Sector Strategy 2050.

Asian Development Bank Regional Director Azusa Sato said WAF is the first government agency in Fiji to establish a comprehensive Environmental and Social Management System.

She said the framework aligns Fiji’s infrastructure sector with international best practices and will help strengthen governance, improve financing readiness and ensure infrastructure investments provide long-term benefits.

WAF Chief Executive Officer Seru Soderberg said the system is more than a compliance requirement, describing it as a strategic tool that will improve decision-making, risk management and the long-term sustainability of water infrastructure projects.

He said the ESMS reflects WAF’s commitment to integrating environmental stewardship and social responsibility into its operations while delivering lasting benefits to communities.

The ESMS was developed through collaboration between WAF, government agencies, development partners, private sector stakeholders and communities.