Papua New Guinea (PNG) is widely recognised for its rich biodiversity, unique marine ecosystems and culturally diverse landscapes. At the same time, the country faces growing environmental pressures from climate change, deforestation and waste management challenges. To support conservation efforts, PNG has introduced an environmental levy commonly referred to as the Green Fee. This charge forms part of broader national efforts to fund environmental protection and climate resilience initiatives.

According to RNZ Pacific reporting on Papua New Guinea’s climate financing initiatives, the Green Fee is a K50 charge applied primarily to departing international travellers, with revenue directed toward environmental programmes managed by national climate authorities. The Green Fee is paid at designated collection points, mainly at international airports such as Jacksons International Airport in Port Moresby. Foreign passport holders departing PNG are required to pay the K50 levy before completing exit procedures. Payment is usually made at airport counters set up by the Climate Change and Development Authority (CCDA), where travellers can pay using cash, debit cards, credit cards or approved electronic banking methods. 

Once collected, the funds do not stay with airport operators or the CCDA directly. Instead, all revenue is transferred into the government’s Consolidated Revenue Fund under the Department of Finance. From there, the money is allocated to climate-related programs across the country. 

The levy is intended to ensure visitors contribute to protecting PNG’s natural environment, including forest conservation, marine protection and community sustainability projects. It is collected at exit points such as airports and forms part of the government’s wider strategy to strengthen climate adaptation funding.

PNG is highly vulnerable to the effects of climate change, including rising sea levels, coastal erosion, increased flooding and loss of biodiversity. Many communities rely directly on natural ecosystems for food, income and cultural practices, making environmental protection essential for long-term sustainability. The Green Fee was introduced as a way to generate additional funding for conservation projects and climate resilience programs. By linking tourism and environmental responsibility, the policy aims to support national efforts to protect ecosystems while adapting to ongoing environmental changes affecting both urban and rural areas.

The levy fee contributes to a growing pool of environmental funding and signals PNG’s commitment to sustainable development. However, some observers argue that broader structural funding and international support are still necessary to address the scale of environmental challenges.

Does this levy strike the right balance by fairly contributing to PNG’s environmental protection while still keeping travel fair and welcoming for visitors, or could it be improved to better benefit both the country and those who come to experience it?