The Environmental Management Authority (EMA) has met event promoters and venue holders from the events and entertainment sector to explain the Noise Variation process and encourage responsible noise management.
The stakeholder engagement was held at the EMA’s North Office Conference Room.
An overview was given of the Noise Pollution Control Rules, 2001 (as amended), which set the framework for managing noise pollution in Trinidad and Tobago through the Event Noise Variation process. Stakeholders were told how to apply, what requirements must be met, what it costs and when a variation is required. They were reminded that if an event is expected to exceed the prescribed noise standards, the applicant must apply for and receive a Noise Variation before the event takes place.
The session also covered practical steps promoters and venue holders can take to reduce the effect of amplified sound on nearby communities. These include placing and angling speakers appropriately, directing them inward where suitable, using sound barriers, testing and monitoring sound, considering neighbouring communities and building noise management into event planning from the start.
The EMA also addressed the consequences of failing to comply with the legal requirements. It encouraged stakeholders to learn the requirements, get all necessary approvals and contact the EMA early in the planning process. Attendees were told that the Code of Practice: Essential Guidelines for the Control of Noise in the Music Entertainment Industry has recently been revised. The document is available on the EMA’s website and offers practical guidance on managing noise from music entertainment activities.
Stakeholders asked for more clarity on several parts of the application process, including submission timelines, conditions on communication and monitoring, and how long a variation would last. Discussions also looked at ways to strengthen collaboration and the need to close the gap between the Noise Management Plan and how it is carried out during events.
EMA Managing Director/CEO Dr. Joth Singh stressed the need for a proactive and collaborative approach to environmental management. He said effective noise management requires shared responsibility among promoters, venue holders, communities and the EMA.
In welcome remarks, Manager – Permitting Vidjaya Ramkhalawan urged promoters and venue holders to treat noise management as an integral part of event planning, rather than something addressed only after complaints arise. She asked attendees to consider a shared principle: a landscape where entertainment, business and community interests coexist harmoniously, benefiting everyone involved.
The EMA said the engagement is part of its ongoing efforts to improve awareness, strengthen compliance and work more closely with the sector. It stressed that obtaining a Noise Variation, where required, is an important part of responsible event planning but does not remove the applicant’s responsibility to comply with the prescribed noise limits and all conditions attached to an approved variation.