How to Get a CNC (Certificate of Non-Coverage) With the DENR

In the Philippines, securing proper environmental permits is crucial for businesses and projects to operate lawfully and sustainably. Under certain circumstances, the Certificate of Non-Coverage (CNC), issued by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources-Environmental Management Bureau (DENR-EMB), is one of the permits required.

What is a CNC?

A CNC is an official document issued by the DENR-EMB to confirm that a proposed project or business does not require an Environmental Compliance Certificate (ECC) because it is considered to have no significant environmental impact. In other words, a CNC certifies that the project is exempt from undergoing the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) process, which is required for an ECC.

Who Needs a CNC and Why?

Businesses or projects classified as having minimal or no potential environmental impact typically need a CNC. These may include small-scale projects, such as micro-businesses or certain agricultural activities that fall below the threshold of ecological significance. Acquiring a CNC ensures compliance with environmental laws while avoiding the more rigorous ECC application process.

However, to avoid legal and regulatory complications, it is essential to verify whether your project qualifies for a CNC or requires an ECC. The DENR-EMB assesses whether a project qualifies for a CNC or requires an ECC based on its scale, type, and location.

CNC vs. ECC: Key Differences

While the DENR-EMB issues both the CNC and ECC, they differ in purpose and application:

• CNC: Issued for projects that pose no significant environmental risks, thus exempting them from needing an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA).
• ECC: Required for projects with potential environmental impacts. It ensures that the project adheres to the necessary environmental protection measures after undergoing a comprehensive Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA).

The critical difference lies in the scope of environmental risk. A CNC is for smaller, low-impact projects, while an ECC is required for more extensive, higher-impact endeavors.

The Process of Obtaining a CNC

The process for obtaining a CNC involves several steps, starting with understanding the Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) and the project categories.

Environmental Impact Statement (EIS)

The Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) is a comprehensive document outlining the potential environmental impacts of a proposed project. However, an EIS is not required for CNC applicants, as the project is determined to have no significant environmental risks. The EIS is mandatory for ECC applicants and provides detailed information to help DENR-EMB assess the project’s environmental impacts and proposed mitigation strategies.

Categories of Projects

Projects that fall under the purview of DENR-EMB can be classified as an ECC or a CNC, depending on their size, nature, and environmental impact. Below are examples of project categories:

1. ECC Required Projects:
   • Large-scale infrastructure projects (e.g., dams, roads, ports)
   • Mining and quarrying activities
   • Major manufacturing plants and factories
   • Power generation facilities
2. CNC Eligible Projects:
   • Small-scale, low-impact enterprises
   • Agricultural projects within allowable thresholds
   • Residential or small commercial developments in areas with no protected environmental significance

To determine whether a project requires an ECC or a CNC, applicants must submit details of their project to DENR-EMB, who will assess the application.

Steps to Apply for and Obtain a CNC

Here is a step-by-step guide to help individuals apply for and potentially obtain a CNC from the DENR-EMB:

1. Project Evaluation: First, evaluate whether your project qualifies for a CNC by consulting the DENR-EMB guidelines or seeking advice from an environmental consultant. Projects that are minor in scale and have no significant environmental impact usually qualify for a CNC.
2. Prepare Required Documents: The next step is to gather the necessary documents. These typically include:
   • Project description, including details about the project’s scope, location, and activities.
   • Proof of land ownership or lease.
   • Supporting documents like site development plans, local government units (LGUs) permits, and zoning certifications.
3. Submit Your Application: Submit the application and supporting documents covering your project location to the DENR-EMB office. Applications are usually submitted online or in person, depending on the region’s specific procedures.
4. Review and Evaluation: The DENR-EMB will review the application to ensure the project qualifies for a CNC. The agency may ask the applicant to provide additional documentation or clarifications if further information is needed.
5. Issuance of the CNC: If the project is determined to have no significant environmental impact, the DENR-EMB will issue the CNC. This certificate officially exempts the project from the EIA process and allows it to proceed without an ECC.
6. Monitoring and Compliance: Although a CNC exempts a project from needing an ECC, project owners must still comply with environmental laws and regulations. DENR-EMB may conduct periodic inspections to ensure the project is not causing unforeseen environmental harm.

Is Assistance Available?

Acquiring a Certificate of Non-Coverage (CNC) is essential for businesses or projects with minimal or no environmental impact. By securing a CNC, project owners demonstrate compliance with environmental regulations without undergoing the more rigorous Environmental Compliance Certificate (ECC) process.

If you require assistance in obtaining a Certificate of Non-Coverage (CNC), our team of environmental compliance specialists is here to support you.

To arrange an initial consultation with one of our experts, please reach out through any of the following methods:

• Contact Us Here
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• Call us at +63 (02) 8540-9623
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