The benefits of such registration are set forth in the next section of the Act:

“The NGOs that have been registered pursuant to Section 7 may request government assistance or support in the following matters:

(1) The organisation of volunteers to assist in the performance of duties of government officials under this Act or other laws concerning the enhancement and conservation of environmental quality;

(2) Public relations campaigns and dissemination of information or data to promote public awareness and proper understanding and knowledge of environmental protection and conservation of nature and natural resources;

(3) Providing assistance to people in certain areas of the country to initiate projects or activities for environmental protection and conservation of natural resources in such areas;

(4) Conducting study and research with respect to environmental protection and conservation of natural resources and bringing to the attention of the Government or agencies concerned on what are the viewpoints and suggestions that are based upon the outcome of such study and research;

(5) Providing legal aid to people who are in jeopardy or afflicted by pollution damage caused by leakage of pollutants or contamination, as well as acting as the representative of such pollution victims to bring lawsuits and litigate claims in court for compensation or damages to which they are entitled as legal remedies.
In case any registered NGO, in the carrying out of activities indicated in the first paragraph, encounters problems or difficulties and requests help from the National Environment Board, the Prime Minister shall, with the recommendation of the National Environment Board, have the power to direct appropriate recourse or order the government agency or state enterprise concerned to render assistance or facilitation as seen fit under the circumstances.

The Fund Committee, with the approval of the National Environment Board, may consider allocation of grants or loans in support of any activity of the registered NGOs as deemed appropriate.

The registered NGOs may propose for nomination of candidates as representatives of the private sector to be appointed by the cabinet as qualified members of the National Environment Board.

In case any registered NGO’s activities are undertaken by causing disturbances or contrary to public order or unsuitable, the Minister shall have the power to revoke the registration of the NGO involved in such activities(21).”