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In 1997-98 the SPREP Secretariat undertook a review of its EIA programme to develop a new framework for building capacity in environmental assessment as a tool for pursuing sustainable development in the region. Since 1991, SPREP's EIA programme has focussed on awareness raising, training and technical assistance to undertake project based EIAs at the request of member governments. Evaluation of progress was made using the above reports, the Training Needs Analysis, and anecdotal information gathered at national level from country visits for the new Sustainable Economic Development Key Result Area of SPREP. Below is a compendium of key findings as regards the progress of implementing EIA in Pacific Island countries.

SPREP is the regional organisation established by the governments and administrations of the region to look after our environment while in the pursuit of sustainable development. The welfare of the people of the Pacific underpins the work of the South Pacific Regional Environment Programme (SPREP). Bringing benefit to Pacific communities through increasing incomes, preventing pollution and maintaining a healthy environment is paramount.

This Summary document has been produced as a means to relay key national issues/messages regarding sustainable development to:| Assist in ensuring national based messages are conveyed in the regional assessment document and deliberations for WSSD at the regional and international level;| Provide the stimulus for countries to finalise their National Assessment Reports (NARs)

In recognition of the unique and important attributes of wetlands in American Samoa, the American Samoa Government (ASG) has developed a comprehensive wetlands management plan to provide a policy framework to manage wetlands resources. The management plan is intended to assist ASG promulgate rules and regulations for the American Samoa Coastal Management Of primary importance is to establish a mechanism for achieving a policy of "no net loss" of wetlands.

The preparation of the Work Progrannne and Budget reflects the requirements of SPREP's Financial Regulations, the programme focus and priorities set out in the 2001-2004 Action Plan and the organisation structure set out in the 2001-2005 Corporate Plan approved by the SPREP Meeting last year.