The Environmental Management Authority is defending its approval of a Certificate of Environmental Clearance for a proposed hotel development at Rocky Point, Tobago, saying the decision followed a rigorous, science-based review.

In a detailed statement, the EMA says the process included technical assessments, stakeholder input, and consultations with multiple agencies, examining factors such as marine ecology, drainage, climate resilience and socio-economic impact.

The Authority also notes that it strengthened several measures beyond those proposed in the Environmental Impact Assessment. Among them, expanding the coastal setback from just over three metres to 30 metres, along with added vegetation buffers to protect the shoreline.