environmental impact assessment and audit

Environmental audit of the existing desalination plant in Fihalhohi Island Resort

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Environmental Audit

of the Existing Desalination Plant in Fihalhohi Island Resort, Kaafu Atoll

Proposed by:

Fihalhohi Island Resort

Prepared by:

Ahmed Jameel

July 2011


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Executive Summary

This report has been prepared in order to assess the environmental performance of the existing

desalination plant in Fihalhohi island resort for the purpose of registration of the plant according to

the requirements of the Environmental Protection Agency of Maldives. This report focuses only on

the desalination plant and associated areas of impact.

The major effects the existing plant may have on the environment include the following impacts;

- Impact on energy and water resources

- Impact on coral cover in the reef

- Impact on marine life in the lagoon

- Impact on ground water quality

- Impact on marine water quality

- Visual impacts

- Impact due to noise pollution

Such significant environmental issues can be resolved by implementing mitigation measures outlined

in the document. Among those measures suggested in the report, it is highly recommended that

urgent measures be taken to reduce the microbial content of the processed water to WHO guideline

values. As such, renewing the RO membranes, and ensuring propoer chlorination of the plant is

recommended. It is also mentioned to store rainwater collected in the resort in separate tanks and

not mix them with the desalinated water. Furthermore, increasing the length of the discharge pipe

such that the brine discharge is further away from the shoreline and having a plant operations

manual accessible to the staff at all times has been highly recommended.

In conclusion, the audited facility at Fihalhohi Island can be regarded as being in compliance, despite

certain issues, which can be resolved. The plant site was, in general, among the better sites

observed in the Maldives. Appropriate safety measures were taken. General operations and

maintenance was up to standards as experienced staff was given the responsibilities of maintaining

the plant. The resort management and staff should do their utmost to maintain the water quality

standards and follow the environmental monitoring program outlined in this report for the

sustainable use of the plant.


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Contents Executive Summary ................................................................................................................................. 2

1. Introduction .................................................................................................................................... 5

1.1 Need for the project ............................................................................................................... 5

1.2 Aims and Objectives ................................................................................................................ 5

1.3 Audit and Assessment team ................................................................................................... 5

1.4 Audit and Assessment Methodology ...................................................................................... 5

1.4.1 Location Identification .................................................................................................... 6

1.4.2 Water Quality .................................................................................................................. 6

1.4.3 Marine environment surveys .......................................................................................... 6

1.4.4 Noise ............................................................................................................................... 6

1.5 Consultation ............................................................................................................................ 7

1.6 Terms of Reference ................................................................................................................. 7

2. Project Description .......................................................................................................................... 8

2.1 Facility locations and Study Area ............................................................................................ 8

2.2 Facility Description .................................................................................................................. 8

2.3 Need for the facilities .............................................................................................................. 9

3. Water Supply Infrastructure ........................................................................................................... 9

3.1 Water Demand ........................................................................................................................ 9

3.2 Water utilization ..................................................................................................................... 9

3.3 RO plant .................................................................................................................................. 9

3.4 Desalination Process ............................................................................................................. 10

3.5 Sedimentation tank ............................................................................................................... 10

3.6 Filtration and Disinfection ..................................................................................................... 11

3.7 Water intake and outfall ....................................................................................................... 11

3.8 Storage .................................................................................................................................. 13

3.9 Staff ....................................................................................................................................... 13

3.10 Plant Site ............................................................................................................................... 14

3.11 Rainwater collection ............................................................................................................. 14

4. Legal and Policy Requirements ..................................................................................................... 15

4.1 Environmental Protection and Preservation Act .................................................................. 15

4.2 EIA Regulations ..................................................................................................................... 15


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4.3 Regulation on the Protection and Conservation of the Environment in the Tourism Industry

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4.4 Desalination Regulation of the Maldives .............................................................................. 16

5. Exiting Environment ...................................................................................................................... 16

5.1 Ground water ........................................................................................................................ 17

5.2 Marine Water ........................................................................................................................ 18

5.3 Marine environment ............................................................................................................. 18

5.4 Uncertainties in data collection ............................................................................................ 19

6. Environmental Compliance and Mitigation .................................................................................. 19

6.1 Energy Conservation ............................................................................................................. 20

6.2 Water Conservation .............................................................................................................. 20

6.3 Brine outfall........................................................................................................................... 21

6.4 Source water intake .............................................................................................................. 21

6.5 Impact on ground water ....................................................................................................... 21

6.6 Sedimentation tank ............................................................................................................... 22

6.7 Processed Water ................................................................................................................... 22

6.8 Storage tanks ........................................................................................................................ 23

6.9 Rainwater Collection ............................................................................................................. 23

6.10 Noise ..................................................................................................................................... 23

6.11 Visual Impact ......................................................................................................................... 24

6.12 Operation and Maintenance ................................................................................................. 24

6.13 Safety .................................................................................................................................... 24

6.14 Environmental audit summary for existing plant ................................................................. 25

6.15 Environmental impacts summary for proposed plant .......................................................... 27

7. Environmental Management and Monitoring .............................................................................. 27

7.1 Monitoring Methodology and Costs ..................................................................................... 28

7.2 Monitoring Report ................................................................................................................ 28

8. References .................................................................................................................................... 29

9. Declaration of the consultants ...................................................................................................... 30

ANNEX ................................................................................................................................................... 30


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1. Introduction This report is based on the audit of the existing desalination plants in Fihalhohi Island Resort and an assessment of the impact they may have on the environment. The report outlines the environmental compliance of the plant, and identifies possible environmental impacts due to the operation of the plant under existing conditions, and subsequently provides mitigation measures and a monitoring plan to improve existing condition and for the sustainable use of the desalination plants.

1.1 Need for the project The Ministry of Housing and Environment requires all desalination plants in the Maldives to be registered. In order to carry out the registration process, environmental approval from EPA is mandatory. This approval is obtained through the formulation of an Environmental Audit/Assessment of the desalination plant under the Desalination Regulation of the Maldives and subsequently obtaining a decision statement from EPA, which gives the clearance for the continued use of desalination plants.

1.2 Aims and Objectives The objectives of the report are:

To assess the performance of the desalination plant.

To assess the environmental compliance of the desalination plant.

To identify environmental impacts due to the plant.

To provide mitigation measures for current and future impacts from the plant

To outline an effective and feasible monitoring plan for the sustainable functioning of the plant

To register the desalination plant according to the requirements of the Environmental Protection Agency.

To fulfil the obligations of the proponent to undertake an EIA under Clause 5 of the Environmental Protection and Preservation Act of the Maldives and the requirements of the tourism regulations.

1.3 Audit and Assessment team This assessment has been undertaken by a multidisciplinary team of engineers and consultants led by Mr. Ahmed Jameel. The team was chosen by the proponent as the environmental consultants for this project. The team members were:

- Ahmed Jameel, Environmental Engineer (EIA Registration No: EIA 07/07) - Amir Musthafa, Environmental Engineer - Abdullah Wahid, Electrical Engineer - Hamdulla Shakeeb, Surveyor

1.4 Audit and Assessment Methodology Standard methodologies were employed in assessing the existing environmental conditions and also

in identifying the environmental compliance and performance of the audited facility. The


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methodology is mainly divided into 3 parts including; literature Review, field observations, and

stakeholder consultation.

There were no previous environmental studies undertaken for Fihalhohi island and therefore,

environmental studies undertaken for similar islands were used as references.

The field visit was undertaken on 11th June 2011, on the request of the proponent. The chief

engineer from the proponent’s side accompanied the consultant throughout the field trip. Details of

the methodologies used for field data collection are given in the following.

The consultations that were carried out during the scoping meeting and during the field visits were

useful in identifying the problem areas and in the determination of standard of current facilities and

possible impacts.

1.4.1 Location Identification

Location was identified using a handheld GPS device. The shoreline of the island was taken, and the

required location of the sample collection points was taken relative to the shoreline. The locations

identified locations include the RO plant, water intake, and brine discharge locations.

1.4.2 Water Quality

All water quality measurements, including groundwater quality, marine water quality, desalinated

water quality were undertaken in the National Health Laboratory in the capital Male’. The water

samples were taken on the field trip to Fihalhohi Island. Marine samples were taken 1m below mean

sea level at deep waters, and at mid water level at shallow waters. Water samples were collected in

1.5l water bottles, and sample to be tested for microbiology were taken in sterilized water collecting

packets. The samples were stored in a cool box with ice to keep the samples cool at a constant

temperature and all the samples were tested in the laboratory within 24 hours of sample collection.

1.4.3 Marine environment surveys

This environmental audit does not require a complex marine survey to be undertaken. Therefore, a

qualitative marine survey was conducted through visual observations and photographs at the outfall

and especially the intake locations and associated area. The surveys were conducted to collect data

on key environmental components that were impacted especially due to the change in water quality

at the outfall location and the existing environment at the intake location.

1.4.4 Noise

The noise levels were measured using Sound Meter 1.6 on the Android 2.2 platform. Sound levels

were measured at the plant site, within the back of the house facilities, and outside the facilities at

the guest area.


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1.5 Consultation

A scoping meeting was held between the major stakeholders of the project at EPA on 8th June 2010

to highlight the important issues that need to be covered in the environmental audit and

assessment. Participants at the meeting included

- Mohamed Hamdhaan (Environment Protection Agency)

- Athifa Ali (Ministry of Tourism Arts and Culture)

- Mohamed Saeed (Managing Director, Dhirham Travels & Chandling Co. Pvt. Ltd)

Furthermore, consultation was held with the responsible people for the operation and management

of the desalination plants during the field visits to Fihalhohi Island and through meetings with the

responsible people in the proponents Male’ office.

The resort staff met during the consultation were

- Mohamed Ibrahim (Chief Engineer, Dhirham Travels & Chandling Co. Pvt. Ltd)

- Mohamed Haleem (Dhirham Travels & Chandling Co. Pvt. Ltd)

- Ahmed Jabir (Personal Manager, Dhirham Travels & Chandling Co. Pvt. Ltd)

1.6 Terms of Reference The terms of reference have been attached in the Annex. This report has been prepared based on these terms of reference. The scope for this audit focuses on the environmental compliance and performance of the existing desalination plants in Fihalhohi Island.


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2. Project Description

2.1 Facility locations and Study Area Fihalhohi is located on the southwest rim of South Male’ Atoll. It is approximately 28 km away from

Male’ international airport and travelling to the island requires 45-60 minutes by a speed boat. The

island is at latitude 3o52’ N and latitude 73o22’ E. This study focuses on the existing desalination

plants in Fihalhohi Island and affected areas.

Figure 1 Fihalhohi Island located in South Male’ Atoll, (Source: Google Earth)

The island has a land area of 84,000 sqm, which mainly consists of lush green natural flora, and an

abundance of vegetation spread throughout the island, surrounded by the typical Maldivian white

sandy beach. The island also has water villas structures to the west of the island in addition to the

facilities available in land.

2.2 Facility Description There are currently three main RO plants on Fihalhohi Island. Two has been in operation for over 5

years, while a new plant has been implemented recently. The capacity of the RO plants in the island

is 100m3/day each. The three plants are rarely run together as plant processing is alternated

between the three plants such that one plant is always put on standby. However, during peak


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season, the three plants may need to be run together. The product water is stored in four 100m3

tanks on the island. More details of the RO plants are given on Section 3.

2.3 Need for the facilities Desalination plants are required for each tourist island in the Maldives in order to provide safe utility

water for the guests and staff of the island. As mentioned in Section 4, in 6.1 of the Regulation on

the protection and conservation of environment in tourism industry, it requires a desalination plant

on each resort in the Maldives for the purpose of provision of clean and safe water sufficient for use

in the resort. Other means of obtaining clean water for resort islands such as Fihalhohi is not as cost

effective and efficient as that of desalination, especially since all islands are surrounded by a vast

supply of saline water for the desalination process.

3. Water Supply Infrastructure

3.1 Water Demand There are 300 staffs on the island catering for 152 villas on the island. During peak seasons, it is

estimated that 300 tourists reside on the island. Off peak season estimates are on average 80 guests

at any given time. On average water usage is 130m3/day. However this amount would rise

considerably during the peak season. The water usage amount is high considering other resorts of

similar status. Upon investigation it was found that this is mainly due to the means for which water

is utilized in the island and not due to any leaks or such. The facilities in the island are well capable of

meeting this demand for water consumption. Water meters were previously installed in the island

to observe and monitor the water usage rates in the island. However, the resort staff reported that

the meters had been recently damaged and new ones will be placed in the near future.

There are currently no plans for expansion of the resort capacity and subsequently no plans exist for

the expansion of the water facilities.

3.2 Water utilization Desalinated water is used for everything in the island, including for toilet flushing, and gardening in

addition to washing and laundry purposes, bathing, cooking and for staff drinking. In general it is

used for the free distribution among the staff and guests at Fihalhohi Island. Bottled water is used as

tourists’ drinking water.

Currently groundwater is not used for any meaningful activity. On some occasions it has been used

to water the volleyball court in the island. Groundwater access is via the well in the island mosque.

However, desalinated water is used for all purposes even at the mosque.

3.3 RO plant There are 3 RO plants in the islands, of which 2 are in use at any given time. The plants each have a

capacity of 100 m3/day. Energy rating is at 30kW. The plants were installed by the locally based


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‘Static company’. A specific plant is not dedicated to be used as a back-up. However this function is

taken up by the one plant which will be idle at any given time.

Figure 2 Reverse Osmosis module

3.4 Desalination Process Desalination is carried out by a regular Reverse Osmosis plant. In a simple osmotic system the less

concentrated solution attempts to equalize the concentrations of both solutions by migrating across

the semi permeable membrane. When enough pure solution migrates across the membrane such

that the potential difference between the solutions is no longer higher than the osmotic pressure of

the membrane, the purer solution will stop flowing.

Reverse osmosis works by increasing the pressure on the concentrated solution is to above the

osmotic pressure, thereby reversing the fluid flow, which subsequently causes the reverse osmosis

effect. High pressure is established in the RO plant by artificially pressurizing the more concentrated

solution using a high pressure pump. In this type of system, the concentrated solution will become

more concentrated as pure water flows out of solution and across the membrane to the permeate

side. Discounting the effects of feed water temperature and salinity, the operating pressure is at

least twice the osmotic pressure of the membrane used to produce significant amounts of pure

water.

3.5 Sedimentation tank The sedimentation tank is located within the plant house. The tank consists of three chambers of

different sizes as follows.

Chamber 1 : length 6’5”, width 4’, and height 5’.




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Water from the intake flows direct to the sedimentation tank where the particulates are separated

from the water.

3.6 Filtration and Disinfection The seawater initially undergoes sedimentation in dedicated tanks and then subsequently flows through a sand filter with filter capacity of approximately 15 microns by the filtration pump after being stored in the sedimentation tank. The two sand filters have a capacity of 1840 Litres. The filtered water is then passed through the reverse osmosis system. The reverse osmosis membrane reduces the salt content producing freshwater. Freshwater is pumped into the storage tank which is located outside the plant house. Water pumped into the storage tank is disinfected using chlorine solution for distribution via underground distribution network to all guest rooms and public areas.

Figure 3 Sand Filteration system

3.7 Water intake and outfall Source water is taken from the sea just outside the house reef. Water intake is taken from the South

side of the island with GPS coordinates 3°52'30.76"N, 73o22’03.44”E. The pipe is located at about

2m deep. The location of the intake is shown in Figure 5.

The brine is discharged into the lagoon approximately 15m from the shoreline. Brine discharge is

located on the south side of the island, similar to the water intake. It has GPS coordinates

3°52'33.44"N, 73o22’02.25”E. The outfall is located close to the shoreline. The locations are shown

on Figure 5. More details on the intake and outfall (the brine discharge) water quality are given in

Section 5.


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Figure 4 Water Intake pipes (left) and Outfall pipes (right)

Figure 5 Water intake and outfall locations for the island (The locations are highlighted in red circles)

OUTFALL

INTAKE

PLANT SITE


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3.8 Storage The water storage facility is outside the plant house. The water is stored in 4 huge aluminium tanks,

each with a capacity of 100 m3/day. In case of maintenance or damage to the plant, the stored

water can be used for 3 days. The water storage tanks in the island are shown in Figure 6.

Figure 6 Water storage tanks

3.9 Staff There are two expatriate workers with over 5 years of experience in charge of the daily operation of

the plant. At night, a security guard is placed to monitor the site. The water plant operating staff is

trained by Static Company Pvt. Ltd.

The schematic flow diagram for the RO plant is shown in Figure 7.

Sea water Intake Sedimentation

Tank

Sand Filter +

Check Filter

Reverse

Osmosis

Desalinated water storage tank

Brine Discharge

Chlorination

Intake Pump Filter Pump

Pump

Temporary Storage

Figure 7 Schematic flow diagram for the RO plant


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3.10 Plant Site The RO plant is located in a standard structure used for warehouses and storage of industrial

equipment. However, the structure is made to be more sound proof to reduce noise pollution. The

total area of the water plant and associated facilities is 133 m2. The RO plant is located on the same

site as the power plant, with the control room dividing the two facilities. The plant site is located

within a boundary which distinguishes the back of the house facilities from the guest area as shown

in Figure 8.

Figure 8 Back of the house facilities separated from the rest of the resort

3.11 Rainwater collection Water consumption in the resort does not only rely on desalinated water. Rainwater collection

systems have been setup such that during heavy rain, use of rainwater is preferred over desalinated

water for uses mentioned in section 3.2. However rainwater is mainly collected in the same storage

tanks and usually gets mixed with the desalinated water before distribution. Additionally rainwater

is also collected in 4 HDPE tanks of capacity 2.5m3 each for staff drinking purposes. The tanks are

shown in Figure 9. Water collected in these tanks are further filtered using a cartridge filter.

Rainwater catchment is limited by the size of the island.

Figure 9 Rainwater collection tanks for staff drinking water


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4. Legal and Policy Requirements

The legal and policy requirements that are relevant to the assessment or audit of desalination plants and their registration areas are as follows;

Environmental Protection and Preservation Act,

EIA Regulations,

Regulation on the Protection and Conservation of the Environment in the Tourism Industry,

Desalination Regulation of the Maldives, These legal as well policy instruments and their relevance to the desalination infrastructure in Fihalhohi are discussed below.

4.1 Environmental Protection and Preservation Act The main legal Act that enforces the protection and preservation of the environment for sustainable development in the Maldives is the Environmental Protection and Preservation Act (Law No. 4/93) passed by the Citizen’s Majlis in April 1993. The following clauses of the Environmental Protection and Preservation Act (Law No. 4/93) are relevant to the project: Clause 5a: An impact assessment study shall be submitted to the Ministry of Environment, Energy and Water (now Ministry of Housing and Environment - MHE) before implementing any development project that may have potentially negative effects on the environment. Clause 5b: The Ministry of Environment, Energy and Water shall formulate the guidelines for EIA and shall determine the projects that need such assessment as mentioned in paragraph (a) of this clause. Clause 6: The Ministry of Environment, Energy and Water has the authority to terminate any project that has an undesirable impact on the environment. A project so terminated shall not receive any compensation.

Clause 10: The government of the Maldives reserves the right to claim compensation for all damages that are caused by activities that are detrimental to the environment. This includes all activities mentioned in Clause No. 7 of this law as well as those activities that take place outside the projects that are identified here as environmentally damaging.

4.2 EIA Regulations The EIA Regulations, which came into force in May 2007, has been developed based on the Act as mentioned above. Since 2007, the EIA Regulations have been the basis for Environmental Impact Assessment in the Maldives. EIAs are required to be signed by registered consultants and reviewed by two independent reviewers and a final decision is made based on these reviews. As with all assessments, this audit would also be subject to these requirements and review criteria. The different environmental projects that require an EIA are listed under Section D of the EIA Regulations and desalination plants have been included in this list.


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An assessment in the form of an Audit was needed for the registration of the facilities as no EIAs had been done specifically for the said developments in Fihalhohi. The EIA Regulations do not directly indicate the requirements for environmental audits. However, the contents of environmental impact assessments have been defined in Schedule E and the format for monitoring reports can be found in Schedule M. These requirements and formats have consequently been taken into consideration in preparing this Audit Report.

4.3 Regulation on the Protection and Conservation of the

Environment in the Tourism Industry

The Regulation on the Protection and Conservation of the Environment in the Tourism Industry came into effect on2006. Section 6 of the Regulation deals with the supply of water in tourist facilities. It requires every resort to have a desalination plant registered according to the Desalination Regulation and requires that water quality to be monitored properly by recording and maintaining daily logs of water quality. The regulation also gives a guideline for the provision of water storage sufficient for 5 days supply.

The regulation further states that groundwater shall not be used for drinking by guests or staff, and shall not be supplied to guest rooms or toilets or for use by staff. Furthermore, any type of oil or any other chemical which may damage the environment shall not be drained to the ground. Clause 2.4 of the regulation requires an Environment Impact Assessment to be prepared before commencing any construction project or activity listed in clause 2.1 of the regulation, which covers coastal protection, dredging, reclamation, vegetation clearance, demolition of existing structures, import and export of living species, conducting research of land, sea and lagoon and anything that may adversely affect the vegetation and freshwater lens of the island.

4.4 Desalination Regulation of the Maldives

The Desalination Regulation of the Maldives came into effect on the year 2002. The Desalination Regulation states the requirements for plant capacity, intake and source water, storage capacity, plant operation and maintenance, brine discharge as well as water quality monitoring requirements. The Environmental Protection Agency is currently in the process of reviewing the Desalination

Regulation to incorporate the current regulatory requirements as well as an administrative

framework. This regulation is the only regulation currently in force for the water and sanitation

sector and has been Has been established with their main goal being the safeguarding of public

water supplies, the environment as well as the interest of service provider.

5. Exiting Environment

Existing environment was determined by the conditions that have existed in the island prior to

undertaking the current field study and during the field study. Conditions in the island prior to this

study were studied by previous water quality tests undertaken. Unfortunately no previous

environmental studies were conducted on the island, which therefore would lead to uncertainties in

determining the accuracy of some parameters. The areas of significance are the existing conditions

of ground water, marine water and the marine environment.


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5.1 Ground water There is currently only one location on the island from which ground water can be obtained from

without any further deterioration to the environment. Therefore groundwater was taken from this

location near the mosque. The ground water quality results are shown on Table 1. The well that was

used to obtain ground water is shown in Figure 10. This test was undertaken during the most recent

field visit.

The ground water had good quality compared to most inhabited islands on the Maldives. This is due

to the minimum usage of the resource in the island. The only impact on the groundwater may be

due to sewage being directed towards the ground via septic tanks. However, not much impact was

observed and in any case, plans are underway to implement a sewage treatment plant at the resort

in the very near future.

Table 1 Ground water quality parameters (National Health Laboratory)

Sample Ground water

GPS cordinates 3o52’35.96”N, 73o22’00.15”E

Physical Appearance Clear

Total Dissolved Solids (mg/L) 1010

Electrical Conductivity (µs/cm) 2150

pH 7.6

Turbidity (NTU) 2

Figure 10 Groundwater well


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5.2 Marine Water

The quality of the marine water was also relatively better compared to most other islands. The

marine water quality test results are shown in Table 2.

Table 2 Marine water quality test results (National Health Laboratory)

Sample Intake Water Sedimentation Tank Brine Discharge

GPS location

3°52'30.76"N, 73o22’03.44”E

3°52'35.62"N, 73o22’01.54”E

3°52'33.44"N, 73o22’02.25”E

Appearance Clear Clear Clear

pH 8.2 8.3 8.2

TDS (mg/L) 14350 5990 10530

EC (µs/cm) 24600 10910 17010

BOD (mg/L) 16 22 14

5.3 Marine environment The marine environment was surveyed at both the water intake and the outfall location. Baseline

conditions at the brine discharge location is important to assess the impact the high density salty

water may have on the existing marine life.

However in the case of Fihalhohi, since the water is discharged so close to the shoreline where there

is minimum coral cover, such impacts would be at a minimum. Discharging close to the shoreline has

other adverse impacts which will be discussed in Section 6. For the purpose of a marine survey, the

discharge location was almost negligible. As shown in the Figure 11, the area only consists of sand

and some rocks and is devoid of any significant marine life.

Figure 11 Brine Discharge Area

A small marine survey at the water intake location was also important to assess the existing

conditions. Although the area would not be usually as vulnerable as the brine discharge, it is

important to observe whether the pipe has provided a support for more coral growth in the region.

As such, this observation was made from the water intake pipe at Fihalhohi.


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Figure 12 Water Intake Area

As can be seen from figure 12, a significant amount of corals can be found at the area, including

various Acropora species of corals. There is a significant no. of corals growing at the concrete anchor

block. The growth of corals along the pipe indicates that this growth had occurred due the existence

of the pipe in the area. However, the coral growth is not as extensive as found in some other islands.

5.4 Uncertainties in data collection A sufficient amount of uncertainties will be confronted during the determination of the existing

environmental conditions in Fihalhohi Island. Due to lack of previous environmental data on the

island, it is difficult to determine the accuracy of the data collected. The accuracy of the data would

be low compared to an island which has a long history of information gathered on the environment.

Furthermore, definite predictions of the possible impacts on the environment cannot be made, as

significant differences are apparent with minor differences in ecological, geomorphological or social

conditions in the given location. However, since Fihalhohi is a small island, such difference would be

at a minimum.

In general, the major factor for the uncertainties is the lack of long-term data and information about the site under consideration, making it rather difficult to predict impacts by direct means. However, similar studies have been undertaken in the Maldives for similar facilities and therefore, the level of uncertainty; particularly in the case of the facilities under consideration for Fihalhohi Island will be expected to be medium to low.

6. Environmental Compliance and Mitigation

The following are identified as to having an impact on the environment due to the operation of the

desalination plants. These impacts are identified based on literature and from past studies that have

been undertaken on impacts of desalination plants in other similar islands in the Maldives.

- Impact on energy and water resources

- Impact on coral cover in the reef

- Impact on marine life in the lagoon

- Impact on ground water quality

- Impact on marine water quality

- Visual impacts

- Impact due to noise pollution


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It should be ensured that all the components of the desalination plants including the water intake

and outfall does not have a significant impact on the environment and that the existing plant is in

compliance with the expected standards of a standard desalination plant.

This section would outline the significance of the impacts and measures that can be taken to

mitigate them. Since an operations manual was not observed during the site visits, it is highly

recommended such a manual be maintained to mitigate many of the potential impacts.

6.1 Energy Conservation Desalination is generally an energy intensive process. Alternative methods of desalination can be

employed to reduce energy consumption. Use of energy recovery equipment can be employed. As it

is currently available in the country, it is recommended that such equipment be installed. The

possibility of using a renewable energy source, at least to partially power the plant should be further

investigated to reduce energy usage and also to reduce emissions from the plant. Implementation

of environment friendly, best available technology is an important factor in the sustainable use of

the plant.

6.2 Water Conservation Water consumption in the resort is quite high as was discussed in section 3. Even though rainwater is

collected as an alternate source of water, the main factor for unusually high water consumption is

due to the fact that desalinated and rainwater has been used for all water related purposed in the

island, including toilet flushing, and gardening.

Finding alternate water sources for such activities is highly recommended. One such option is to

have rainwater tanks dedicated to these purposes rather than contributing to activities such as

bathing and cooking. It is recommended that this option be seriously considered by the resort

management. Furthermore, the management reported that a sewage treatment plant will be

established at the resort soon, and the management is considering the use of the treated water to

be used for gardening. This is a positive step and should be taken ahead depending on the quality of

the treated water from the plant and depending on whether authorisation can be obtained from the

tourism ministry.

Several methods for water conservation have already been proposed by the proponent and will be

implemented when the resort operation commences. Water consumption can be decreased to

lower than 250 L/person/day. As such, the following steps have been proposed

- treated grey water is to be used for gardening purposes on the island

- dual flushing tanks are to be used for both staff quarter and tourist accommodation

- treated grey water is to be used for flushing

- Water meter is to be connected to all the systems in locations such as the kitchen and guest

area to monitor and minimize the amount of water usage

- Water used for the swimming pools in the resort is to be recycled continuously.

- Linen will not be washed daily, and will be left without washing upon request by the guests.

Water conservation can be further improved upon by implementing an efficient monitoring program

as given in Section 7.


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6.3 Brine outfall

Although the brine contains materials originated from sea (source water), its high salinity per volume and the potential presence of chemicals introduced in disinfection may harm the marine environment in the area in which the water is discharged. This would be a significant issue if the discharge was close to the shoreline or is close to the reef as is the case in Fihalhohi Island. The brine is discharged into the lagoon approximately 15m away to the shoreline, which would not have significant potential for dispersion and dilution as is recommended. However, There is no coral cover at this location and thus there is minimum risk to corals due to high salinity. The Brine outfall can be further extended away from the shoreline, such that water is discharged to

the deep sea. However, it should be ensured that the water intake is not from the same location as

the discharge. Also the reject water from the desalination plant can be pre-diluted using cooling

water from the power plant. Impact from chemicals can be avoided by employing a procedure to

remove chemicals such as chlorine from the reject water before disposal. Use of alternative pre-

treatment methods can also be considered, such as use of Ultraviolet. However, economic feasibility

of such an option for such a small island needs to be considered before being implemented.

6.4 Source water intake The trapping of marine organisms against the intake screens by the velocity and force of water flowing to it and smaller marine organisms passing through the intake screens and getting into process equipment are two key impacts that may be caused due to the water intake. Also the source water should not be subject to any anthropogenic pollution, which would lead to the eventual decrease in the quality of the desalinated water. For mitigation, currently the intake is capped with a foot valve, which generally prevents entry of

marine organisms. Alternatively, a smaller mesh size filters can be used on the intake end to prevent

any possibility of smaller marine organisms from getting trapped and being taken in by the intake

pipe. Furthermore, low intake velocity should be considered. The total intake water can also be

reduced by utilizing cooling water from the power plant in the island.

6.5 Impact on ground water

There is minimum impact on the ground water due to the desalination plant as water is taken the

sea. However there is a small possibility of leakage of the brine discharge pipe contaminating the

groundwater system of the island. Leak detectors can be used throughout the water distribution

network. However this is not recommended as the feasibility of implementing this for such a small

island is low, and the impact of small leakages on the ground water will also be minimum.

Additionally, discharging brine so close to shoreline may lead to the possibility of increasing in

salinity of the groundwater system in the island. This can be mitigated by employing methods

discussed in Section 6.3.


22

6.6 Sedimentation tank Upon observation, the water from the intake is clear with very few sediments and does not possess

any significant foul odour, although there was a hint of the typical odour of sea water. It is expected

that the membranes and filters will be more durable due to the clearness water especially after

sedimentation. The size of the tank is adequate and is well capable of handling the input of water.

Figure 13 Sedimentation tank

6.7 Processed Water The processed water does consist of a significant no. of total coliform bacteria and thus is a cause for

concern. However, faecal coliform is fortunately at negligible levels. Total coliform, although not

directly harmful to humans, do indicate poor water quality and thus has to be reduced by suitable

mitigation measures. The high total coliform no. could potentially be due to a fault in the functioning

of the RO membranes. It should be noted however, that total coliform was previously at negligible

levels in Fihalhohi as can be seen from the water quality monitoring tests undertaken in the island.

Some previous water quality monitoring reports are attached in Annex. Therefore, this issue of high

total coliform has not been a persistent problem and is only occurring currently.

As a mitigation measure, an additional UV sterilisation system can be employed to ensure removal

off all bacteria. However, many resorts in the Maldives produce good quality water with no

microbial content without the use of UV sterilisation and thus implementing UV sterilisation now is

not necessarily recommended for this plant based on availability of other alternatives.

Recommended mitigation measure for the high total coliform is to replaces the existing RO

membrane, and to ensure proper chlorination of the produce water.

Table 3 Microbiological test results for process water

Sample Kitchen Area Guest Area

Total coliform count /100ml 90 96

Faecal Coliform Count (E.coli)/100ml

0 0


23

Table 4 Water quality tests for other parameters for process water

Sample Recent Plant Old Plant Staff area Kitchen

Appearance Clear Clear Clear Clear

ph 7.3 7.5 7.5 7.3

TDS (mg/L) 187 267 204 263

EC (µs/cm) 374 529 405 523

Turbidity (NTU) 0 0 0 0

Iron (total, mg/L) 0 0 0 0

Chlorine, Free (mg/L) <0.02 <0.02 <0.02 0.12

6.8 Storage tanks Storage capacity of the existing tanks is in compliance. The water storage will be able to cater for

approximately 3 days in case of plant failure. The tanks are all opaque which prevents any algal

growth. Regular maintenance of the tanks is necessary to minimise any impacts on the water during

storage. The resort staff reported that the tanks are maintained yearly. As such, paint coatings are

renewed yearly, and sand glass coating is renewed on a less frequent basis.

6.9 Rainwater Collection As the ecological impacts associated with an industrial process are often related to the size of the

‘footprint’ it generates, the land area required for the establishment and operation of a facility is an

important factor. Comparing desalination with rainwater collection; the catchment area needed for

the latter, in a region of moderate rainfall, would be around 200 times greater than a desalination

plant of the same capacity (Morton et al, 1996). The large land area occupied by conventional rain

water collection schemes does not make it favorable for development in a small island resort

environment.

However, the collection and use of rainwater as an alternative source needs to be encouraged. But

care should be taken that the rainwater is of similar quality as the desalinated water. It is

recommended that the rainwater is not collected in the same storage tanks as desalinated water.

Separate tanks can be employed for the storage of rain water, and distribution of untreated

rainwater can be concentrated towards uses such as gardening or laundry. The other option is to

ensure proper treatment of the rainwater by employing filtration and disinfection procedures. In

such a case, rainwater can be mixed with the desalinated water.

6.10 Noise Noise will only have a minimum impact on the staff, as few would work close to or inside the plant.

For those that do, ear muffs are provided. As such, 3 ear muffs were observed during the field visit.

Negligible impact would be observed by the guests, since it is located within the back of the house

facilities. Noise levels within and around the plant are given in Table 5.

To further improve the noise conditions, attenuators can be used at the plant. However, it was not

regarded since the current noise levels near the plant were acceptable. It was observed that staff did

not use the ear muffs when the field trip was undertaken. It is highly recommended that these

protection measures be used when inside the plant house at all times.


24

Table 5 Noise Levels near the plant area

Location Noise levels

Inside RO plant house 77 dB(A)

Inside control room 72 dB(A)

Outside plant house 73 dB(A)

20ft away from the plant 70 dB(A)

Outside back of the house facility area 65 dB(A)

6.11 Visual Impact The plant will have minimum impact on the aesthetics of the island as it is located within the back of

the house facilities, which is clearly enclosed and separated from the guest area. Since Fihalhohi is a

small island, the plant is located close to staff quarters. However, it is housed in a properly built

structure and would not cause any visual obstruction to the staff. It was observed that regular

housekeeping has been undertaken within the plant boundary, and thus cleanliness of the plant was

satisfactory.

Frequency of plant housekeeping can be increased to improve the cleanliness and general conditions

inside the plant. Furthermore, the area just outside the plant was unkempt and it is recommended

to clean the area and keep the tools in a more organised manner to improve the overall visual

amenity of the plant.

6.12 Operation and Maintenance There are no major temperature variances during the flow of water through the RO plant. water

quality monitoring has been undertaken in the island for over 3 years. However, the monitoring was

observed to be quite irregular, and it is recommended that regular field testing be carried out

weekly and major water quality tests carried out monthly, with reports generated at least once a

month. More details on monitoring are given in Section 7. Some water quality tests undertaken in

the island is given in the Annex.

It was observed that an operations manual did not exist for the plant in Fihalhohi. There needs to

exist a detailed plant operations manual for proper operation and maintenance of the desalination

plant, Therefore, it is highly recommended that such an operations manual be obtained from the

manufacture or supplier and kept where it is easily accessible to the facility staff.

6.13 Safety Fire protection and prevention measures had been taken at the RO plant and the surrounding areas.

In order to protect the RO Plant from fire accidents the proponent has installed fire fighting

equipment at the plant as shown in Figure 14. However, a fire alarm was not observed. Since the

plant is located on the ground, there is no need for a dedicated fire escape. ‘Safety Services

Maldives’ have provided all the fire fighting equipment to the site.


25

Figure 14 Fire extinguishers and ear muffs

6.14 Environmental audit summary for existing plant Environmental and Social Aspects

Compliance Performance Comments Recommendation

Yes No Low Mediocre Excellent

Water quality monitoring

X X Water quality monitoring is undertaken, however not very frequently.

To undertake monitoring on a set regular basis

Noise X X Plant housing well insulated from noise pollution

Use of ear muffs for the staff at the RO plant.

Visual impact X X Clearly defined boundary within which RO plant and other back of the house facilities exists, therefore having minimum visual impact.

To engage in more regular housekeeping to keep the vicinity cleaned and organised.

Storage X X Is able to store water for 3 days for regular usage

Can increase the storage to be able to cater for 5 days including a backup storage tank.

Water intake X X Any pollution at intake area should be prevented.

Include marine water quality testing as part of the monitoring program. Use a finer mesh to prevent any


26

possible intake of marine organism

Brine discharge X X Location of the discharge too close to the shoreline.

Include marine water quality testing as part of the monitoring program. Ensure water is discharged further out to ensure minimum impact.

Produce water quality

X X Other parameters except for total coliforms are in compliance and even total coliform was not present in previous water quality tests done in the island.

To monitor the condition of the RO membrane more frequently and replace membrane. Ensure proper dosage of chlorine to water produced from all 3 plants.

Groundwater impact

X X No impact on groundwater as no leakage currently

Periodically check for leakage along the water distribution network

Energy usage/ Emissions

X X Plants should be run only at required times

Can implement innovative technology to reduce energy. Can implement best available technology for heat recovery

Water conservation

X X Good ideas in place for water conservation. However need to reduce the activities desal water is currently being used for

More methods need to be employed for water conservation, and alternative water sources should be used especially for flushing and irrigation.

Operation and Maintenance

X X Absence of operations manual. However highly

Need to have operations manual accessible


27

trained staff present.

Safety X X Fire fighting equipment visible and easily accessible

Need to also include a fire warning system.

6.15 Environmental impacts summary for proposed plant Environmental and Social Aspects

Magnitude of Impact

Significance of Impact

Duration of Impact

Nature of Impact

Water Conservation Moderate Moderate long term Cumulative but Reversible

Groundwater impact Moderate n/a n/a n/a

Marine water impact Moderate Moderate Long term Cumulative

Disinfection Minor High Short term Reversible

Noise pollution Moderate Moderate Short to Long term

Cumulative

Visual impact Minor Low Short term Temporary

Safety Minor Low Short to long term

Irreversible

Energy usage /Emissions

Moderate Moderate Long term Cumulative

Sufficient storage Minor Moderate Short term Temporary

Note: the magnitude of impacts progresses from better to worse in the following order; Positive,

Negligible, Minor, Moderate, Major.

7. Environmental Management and Monitoring

This section deals with the Environmental Management and Monitoring plan for Fihalhohi Island.

The data collected for this assessment and previous assessments will be used as baseline data while

undertaking the monitoring plan. Monitoring will only be targeted towards changes in quality of

desalinated water, groundwater and marine water, especially at intake and outfall locations.

Monitoring should be undertaken quarterly, except for water quality testing, while summary

monitoring reports should be submitted to the EPA annually. In house water quality monitoring of

processed water should take place on a more frequent basis.

The proponent is fully committed to carry out the monitoring program outlined in this report. The

proponent’s declaration of commitment is given in the Annex.


28

7.1 Monitoring Methodology and Costs The methodology used for monitoring will be similar if not the same as those used in this

environmental assessment. However, on field water quality testing equipment can be employed to

decrease the uncertainties of the results as they can be compared to those obtained from the

national health laboratory. The following costs are calculated for monitoring to be undertaken

quarterly throughout the year.

Table 6 Summary of information required for environmental monitoring

Parameter Indicator Location Frequency Estimated Cost*

Intake water quality (marine)

DO, COD, BOD, pH, EC/Salinity,

water intake location, 1 m below sea level.

Quarterly $150 per quarter

Discharged water quality (marine)

DO, BOD, COD, pH, EC/Salinity,

water outfall location, 1 m below sea level.


Ground water quality

DO, TDS, COD, BOD, EC/Salinity, THC, nitrate, phosphate.

From the well that already exists in the island


RO processed water quality

pH, EC, DO, free and residual chlorine, coliform bacteria

From RO plants, guest area, kitchen area and staff quarters.

Monthly $200 per quarter

Water Demand Daily production of water

Locations where water quality meters are set up.


Marine Environment

Qualitative assessment of coral cover in identified locations

Around the proximity of the intake and outfall pipes.


*Note: the costs are approximations made at the time of making this report and are subject to

change.

7.2 Monitoring Report Monitoring report should be compiled based on the baseline data collected. This report should be submitted to the EPA and any other relevant government agencies for compliance, if requested. The report structure may include but not limited to;

Introduction

Details of the site at the time of investigation,

Data collection and analysis,

Details of methodologies and protocols followed

Quality control measures,

Sampling frequency and monitoring analysis


29

8. References

Latteman S., Hopner T., 2008, Environmental impact and impact assessment of sea water

desalination, Desalination, Vol. 220, Issue. 1-15

Morton A. J., Callister I. K., Wade N. M., 1999, Environmental impacts of sea water distillation and

reverse osmosis processes, Desalination, Vol. 108, Issue. 1-3.

Munoz I., Fernandez-Alba, A.R., 2007, Reducing the environmental impacts of reverse osmosis

desalination by using brackish groundwater resources, Water Research, Vol. 42, Issue. 3

Water Solutions Pvt. Ltd., 2011 Environmental audit at Bandos Island Resort for the registration of

existing desalination plant and powerhouse and in Bandos Island Resort.


30

ANNEX

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4th Flr Jamaaluddeen Complex

NikaFs Matu

Male', Rep. of Maldives

Tcl: 333 5949 / 333 5951

Fax: 333 5953

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Email: [email protected]

Website: ww.epa,tov.mv

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Environmental Protection Agencyoaa oa caxc olo//a.oa

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Maldives.


Nika6as Magu


Tef: 3335949/3335951 : rtit Email:

ww.epa gov.mv : ilrti lilltlulltlll- ct?Et't.gl

Terms of Reference for the Environmental Audit forexisting Desalination plant at Fihalhohi, Kaafu Atoll

The following TOR is based on the similar audits carried out in the past few months, forundertaking the Environmental Audit report for the existing desalination plant in X'ihalhohi,Kaafu Atoll, Maldives. While every attempt has been made to ensure that this TOR addresses all ofthe major issues associated with development proposal, they are not necessarily exhaustive. Theyshould not be interpreted as excluding from consideration matters deemed to be significant but notincorporated in them, or matters currently unforeseen, that emerge as important or significant fromenvironmental studies, or otherwise, during the course of preparation of the audit report.

1. Introduction - The Ministry of Housing and Environment requires thal desalinalion plants in theMaldives are regislered. In order to carry out the registralion process, environmental clearance requiredfromthe EPA, i.e. a Decision Statement regarding the environmental impact assessmenl of water infrastructure. Inorder to provide such clearance the EPA requires that an Environmental Impact Assessment be done forproposed new or upgrading projects and an Environmentol Audit be donefor existingfacilities. Since there areno upgrading or addilional components to the desalinalion infrastructure at Fihaalhohi Island Resort, anEnvironmental Audit will be done for the purpose of registering the desalination plant at Fihaalhohi IslandResort.

2. Stuilt Area - The study will be focused on the desalination infrastructure existing on the islqnd. The

specific areas include the desqlination plant including the seqwater intake and brine discharge locations.

3. Scone of l(ork - The following taslrs will be performed:

Task 1. Description of the Project Components - Provide a full description of the existing power andwater supply infrastructure using clearly labeled maps, and also include a scaled site plan. Details to includedetails of water supply requirements, land use, capacity, storage capacity, intake arrangements, pump house

details, exhaust qnd brine reject amangemenls, qnd disinfection and reticulation mechanism. Provide a briefdescription of the existing safety measures in place in cqse of an emergency. A site speci/ic process /lowdiagram must be provided.

Task 2. Description of the Environment - l{here baseline dqta is to be collected, careful considerationmust be given to the design of the melhodologt and sampling progrctmme. Data collection must focus on key

issues needing to be examinedfor the EIA.

Assemble, evaluate and present baseline data on the relevant environmental characteristics of the study area(and disposal sites).

a) Physical environment: Water quality at the location of intake and brine discharge locations.

Intakewater quality parameters shall include dissolved oxygen, COD, BOD, pH, EC/salinity. lYaterquality at brine discharge location should include dissolved orygen, BOD, COD, pH, E-Conductivity/salinity. Groundwater quality shall include dissolved orygen, TDS or E-Conductivity,

Fax: 333 5953 :-t; Websire:

THC, COD, BOD, nitrate and phosphate. Quality of the product water from desalination plant shallalso be assessedfor pH, E-Conductivity, and coliform bacteria.

b) Biological environment: Assessment of coral cover along the pipe if the brine discharge or intake pipeor pqrt ofthe pipe runs on reefareas where live corals can befound.

c) Human environment: Identify the noise levels in the vicinity and how they affect recreational qualityand public and occupational heallh.

Characterize the extent and quality of the available data, indicating signiJicant information de/iciencies andarry uncertainties associated with the prediction of impacts. All available data from previous studies of theisland, if available should be presented. Geographical coordinates of all sampling locations should beprovided. Allwater samples shqll be taken at a depth of Imfrom the mean sea level or midwater depthforshallow qreas. Absence of facilities in the country to carry out the water quality tests will not exempt theproponenlfrom the obligation to provide necessary data. The report should outline the detqiled methodologtof data collection utilized to describe the existing environment. Baseline conditions should be presentedfor themarine environment. All water quality data must be tested from a certified laboratory. Provide details ofcalibrationfor any onsite data analysis.

Task 3. Legislative and Regulatory Considerations - Describe the pertinent legislation, regulations andstandards, and environmental policies that are relevqnt and applicable to the proposed project, and identify theappropriate authority jurisdictions thal will specifically apply to the project.

Task 4. Determine the Environmental Performance, compliance, mitigation andrecommendationr ldentify impacts related to operation and maintenance desalination plants. Distinguishbetween significant impacts that are positive and negative, direct and indirect, and short and long term. Identifiimpacts that are camulative, unavoidable or irueversible. Identifi any information gaps qnd evaluate theirimportance for decision-making. Identifi any information gaps and evaluate their importance for decision-making. Determine how well the existing infrastructure complies with existing environmental policies andregulations.

Give details of all mitigation measures currently implemented to minimize any adverse impacts. Are these

mitigalion measures sfficient, provide recommendations to improve the existing operations. Commitment of theproponent to implement any required additional mitigation meqsures and cost, equipment, resources required to

implement these measures shall also be given.

Task 5. Monitoring Plan - Identifi the critical issues requiring monitoring to ensure compliance to energ)managemenl and water quality regulations and stqndards. All requirements for reporting shall be identified anda comprehensive monitoring plan with the cost qnd commitment of the Proponent to conduct the monitoringprogramme shall be provided. A reasonqble time frame should be outlined for monitoring. A general guideline

for monitoring is provided in appendix I. Relevant components of this guideline must be followed whenpreparing the audit report.


Nikagas Magu


Tel: 333 5949 / 333 5951

Fax: 333 5953

: ttit Emait:

: 9ij website: www.epa.gov.mv : Ear:i EutnalttL' clctrtr.rn

Task 6. Methodology - Explain clearly the methodologies usedfor data collections, making predictions anddata gaps and also the information on the uncertqinties and assumptions involved in interpreting the dqta.

Presentation - The environmentql audit report, to be presented in print and digilal format, will be concise andfocus on significant environmental issues. It will contain the findings, conclusions and recommended actionssupported by summaries of the data collected and citations for any references used in interpreting those data.The ewironmentql qssessment report will be organized according to, but not necessqrily limited by, the outlinegiven in the Environmental Impact Assessment Regularions, 2007.

Timefrqmefor submilting the audit report - The developer must submit the completed Erwironmental auditreport within 3 montls from the date of this Term of Reference.

l2h June 201 I


Nikatas Matu


Tel: 333 5949 / 333 5951

Fax: 333 5953

: ,jit Email:

: Itj website:

lvtJr' -1-rtc

[email protected]

www.ePa.tov.mv tttltt'tlt'l. tl

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Annendix I

PHYSICAL MONITORING

, SEA WATER QUALITY TESTING FOR BASELINE DATA COLLECTION

These parameter guideline triggers have been adopted from the Great Barrier Reef Marine ParkAuthority (GBRMPA,2009). The marine ecology in the Maldives is so vulnerable that it should becompared to that in the GBRMP. This will help maintain healthy ecosystems to preserve valuablenatural resources that are directly or indirectly part of all people's livelihoods.Take 3 control water samples away from the project site, 3 water samples from the project site and a

representative number of water samples from different locations around the project site. All water samples

shall be taken at a . Record the GPS

coordinates of each water sample taken. Analyze the following parameters and check the water qualitystandards to evaluate the status of the sample.

Table 1. Water I mum conditions.

PARAMETER OPTIMAL RANGE REFERENCE

TEMPERATURE 18'C and 32'C*Changes should not surpass loCabove the average long termmaximum

GBRMPA,2OO9

SALINITY 3.2% _ 4.20/0****)6]6* GBRMPA.2OO9PH 8.0-8.3

*Levels below 7.4 pH cause stress

TURBIDITY 3-5 NTU>5 NTU causes stress

Cooper et aL.2008

SEDIMENTATION Maximum mean annual rate3mglcm2lday Daily maximum ofllmg/cm'lday

GBRMPA,2OO9

NITRATES <5 mg l-' NOIN UNESCOAMHOruNEP.t996

AMMONIA Max.2-3 mg l-' N UNESCO/WHOruNEP.1996

PHOSPHATE 0.005 - 0.020 mg l-' POc-P UNESCOAVHO/TJNEP.t996

SULPHATE 2mgl-' and 80 mg l- UNESCO/WHOAJNEP.r996

BOD <2mgl-'03 UNESCOAilHO/TJNEP.t996

COD < 20 mg l-' 02 UNESCO/WHOruNEP.r996


Nikatas Matu


Tel: 333 5949 / 333 5951

Fax: 333 5953 website: w.epa.tov.mv : Earti rlrElltt|r- cr rct|rr. tcrUYHa'{U.fl ,ffimru arvrEranur. aMa nro

{'***{'{'{' This could be higher at the brine outfall location. Assess biological impacts, if any.

ACCEPTABLE DRINKING GROUND WATER QUALITY RANGES

The Water & Sanitation Authority require that ground water quality meets specific standards. Table l, 2

& 3 indicate the ranges for drinking water quality. If the water is not used for such purposes, quality ranges

may not be within the limit but quality will not decrease after construction. All survey locations shall be

referenced with Geographic Positioning System (GPS). All parameters shall be tested and analysed at a

certified laboratory.

Table l. Weekly tests (Source: WHO).

Parameters Reference Range

Free chlorine 0.2-0.5 ms/lpH 6.5-8.5

Physical ADDearance Clear & Colorless

Temperafure

Electrical Conductivitv <1500 us/cm

Total Coliforms 0/100 mlFaecal Coliforms 0/100 ml

Table 2. Six monthly tests should be performed along with those given in table 2 (Source: WHO).

Parameters Reference Ranse

TurbidiA <5NTU

Total Dissolved Solids <1000 ms/lChloride <250 me/l

Nitrates <50 ms/lAmmonia 1.5 msllIron 0.3 me/lTotal Coliforms (MF) 0/100 ml

Faecal Coliforms (MF) 0/100 ml

given in table2 & 3 (Source: WHO).


Nila8as Matu


Tel: 333 5949 / 333 5951

Fax: 333 5953 : i-ij website: ww.epa.tov.mv I ttrti ffiqlH*a.dr.ff.dmarcno amErtrtN. arrarra

Table 3. Annual tests should be along with those

Parameters Reference Range

Sulphate <250 mg/l

Manganese <0.1 ms/l

Total Petroleum Hvdro Carbon

Sodium <200 msllPotassiumCalcium Hardness

Bromine

Total Residual Chlorine

Hvdrosen Sulohide <0.05 me/l

Mercury <0.001 me/lLead <0.01 me/l

CopDer <2meJl

Boron <0.3 ms/lArsenic <0.01 me/l

Fluoride <1.5 ms/lPhenolic compounds

Anionic detersents

Cadmium <0.003 me/l

Chromium 0.05 me/l

Cvanide <0.07 me/l

BATHYMETRY AND HYDROLOGY

Waves, currents, tides: These parameters are important for understanding sediment

transportation and the rate of effluent water dispersion. Ideally, presented a map illustratingthe extent of sediment plumes and highlight the sites which will be affected by highsedimentation and turbidity rates. This study will complement coastal erosion monitoring.

Present bathymetric data on an A,3 map. Identifr the sites which have high water

dispersion and dilution rates as well as intense erosion performances. State the tidal ranges

in the area including neap and spring tides throughout the year. Mark the areas where wave

action is more intense (e.g. where waves break).

This data is key for sewerage projects, desalination plants, dredging activities, aquaculture ventures,

agriculture and all those which involve water dispersion and sediment transport activities. Sewerage

outfall pipes shall be located where currents quickly disperse effluent. Brine water from desalination

plants ought to be placed in high energy waters too, however, the impacts from this are stillrelativelv unknown.

2. BIOLOGICAL MONITORING

The first action in developing a long-term monitoring program is establishing the keyquestions about the study. This will guide the selection of methods, sites and times ofsampling (English et al., 1994). It is important to select sites for monitoring that are

representative of the system as a whole, and not necessarily the closest or most pristine areas.

Such "pristine" sites may be essential as "controls", if the aim of monitoring is to determine

impacts at test sites (English et al., 1994). All site selection should be made following a "pilotd. The number of sites chosen for monitoring will

ql54t.uffi'qmt:.'jwebsite:ww.epa.8ov.mv:t.,'jffi

necessarily be a balance between trying to achieve the maximum amount of information andthe amount of resources and time available (English et al., 1994). The monitoring programshould be designed around a series of sites that can be visited on a regular basis, e.g. everyyear. Recording the GPS coordinates of the sites are really important for survey repetition.The first step is to establish a sound baseline description of the system before constructionoccurs.

2.1. CORAL REEf,', FISH & INVERTEBRATES MONITORING

2.1.1. Pilot study: Manta tow: The manta tow technique is used to assess broad changes inthe benthic communities or coral reefs where the unit of interest is often an entire reef orlarge portion thereof (English et al. 1994). Therefore this technique can be used to performpreliminary assessments to design a comprehensive monitoring study.

Tow an observer, using a rope and manta board, behind a small boat powered by an outboard

motor. Tows are carried out at a constant speed around the perimeter of a reef and are broken

into units of 2 minutes duration (English et al. 1994).

During each2 minute tow, observations are made on several variables (e.g. percent cover oflive coral, dead coral and soft coral). Additional information may be collected, dependent on

the survey objectives, e.g. percent cover of sand and rubble.

This technique is not recommended for fish counts. A pilot study for fish is not necessary

since reef fish will inhabit the healthiest available reef. Exclusive fish and invertebrates

surveys will be carried out in the main study.

Line Intercept Transects (LIT): It is the standard method recommended by the2.1.2.Global Coral Reef Monitoring Network (GCRMN) to determine percentage cover and

colony size for management level monitoring, and obtains information on percentage cover

of benthic communities e.g. hard coral, soft coral, sponges, algae, rock, dead coral. The

community is characterized using lifeform categories which provide a morphological

description of the reef community.

These categories are recorded on data sheets by divers who swim along lines which are

placed roughly parallel to the reef crest at depths of 3 metres and l0 metres at each site

(English et al., 1994).Place 5 x 20m long replicate transects at each of the two depths (shallow: 3 m and deep:9-10 m depths). Ifpermanent transects are used, place metal stakes, hammered deep into the substratum (at least 0.5m). If a typical

reef flat, crest and slope is present, the shallow transects will be located on the reef slope, approximately 3

metres below the crest. The deeper transects will be located approximately 9-l0metres below the crest. If the

site is on a reef without a well defined crest, then transect depth should be approximated to a depth below mean

water mark. If there is little or no coral at lOm then transects should be laid at 6-8m and not difference.

A representative number of sites around the island should be surveyed including those that are directly and

indirectly affected by construction. A "control" site shall be selected and test sites thereafter. These shall be

sufficient to make a quantitative assessment of the impacts caused by construction all around the island.


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o Observers must be as consistent as possible when recording benthic lifeforms. The sameobservers should collect data at all sites and, where possible, during repeat surveys.

2.1.3. Coral Recruitment Plates: The larval supply of coral species is examined byestimating the number of new corals settling on replicated units of substratum (terracottatiles). The tiles are deployed at 5 metres depth on a regular basis (e.g. monthly) and are

collected after exposure for equal amounts of time, 3 months is recommended. Aftercollection they are examined microscopically to count the new corals. Year round samplingshould be undertaken to determine the period, or periods, of recruitment. When they are

known, sampling effort can be concentrated in these periods.

It is ideal for EIA monitoring because it will evaluate whether the system is recoveringafter it has been damaged and at what rate. This will help understand the impact significancein later projects in the Maldives.

2.r.4. Settlement Quadrats: This is used to measure the growth, mortality ad recruitmentof corals in a permanently marked (fixed) quadrat located at metres depth on the reef slope(English et al., 1994). It complements the LIT method by providing changes in individualcorals and recruitment to a mapped area. This provides abundance estimates of recruits thathave survived the first year, thus giving a more reliable estimate of future coral species

composition than recruitment tiles that look at newly settled recruits. Using a 25cm x 25cm quadrat, swim in a haphazard fashion around the reef and place the quadrat on the

substratum in areas lacking large (>25 cm diameter) sessile invertebrates;o Count all small (maximum diameter 2 cm) stony corals within the quadrat. Record to genus if possible;

. Repeat 80 times.

2.1.s. Sedimentation on the reef: This is to measure direct sedimentation on the reefresulting from land clearing activities, construction, dredging, mining and drilling activities.Sedimentation reduces light availability for photosynthesis, deplete dissolved oxygen and

cause smothering of organisms. Sedimentation rates are measured using sediment traps.

o Attach sets of 3 PVC sediment traps to the reef. The base of the traps should be 20cm above

the substratum. Place 4 sets n the reef slope at 3 metres, 2 on either side of the permanentquadrat at one metre intervals.

o Collect traps every month, replace traps immediately with new clean traps. Dry and weighsediments to the nearest milligram.

. Monitor monthly for the first year and then every 3 months for the next 2 year.

2.1.6. Coral Reef Fish Census: Belt transect: The aim is to simultaneously estimate theabundance and size of fish along 50 metre transects. A visual census is conducted dwingdaylight hours along 3 of the same transects as the line intercept but the fish census transects

must be 50 m long at 2 depths (3-5 m and 8-10 m). Wait for 5 to 15 minutes after laying the

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line before counting to allow fishes to resume normal behaviour, then swim slowly along thetransect recording fish encountered in a 5 m belt and 5 m tunnel above the transect. There are

two techniques:

Detect differences in assemblages of reef fishes at different sites using abundance categories (table 3). Itprovides baseline data for zoning, management and monitoring, or,Count individual fish and estimate their total lengths to determine the standing stock and population size

structure of specific species (those that are favoured by fishermen e.g. Serranids, Siganids, Acanthurids,

Lutjanids, Lethrinids, Haemulids, Balistids). This is to determine the standing stock and population size

structure of specific species.

Table 3. Fish abundance categories.

Category Number of fish

ll2

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4

)6

8

2-4

5-16

r7-64

65-256

257-1024

t025-40964097-16384

2.2. SEAGRASS MONTIORING

Seagrass meadows occur in shallow, sheltered soft-bottomed marine coastlines (Kirkman,

1990). They physically help to reduce wave and curent energy, help to hlter suspended

sediments from the water column and stabilise bottom sediments (Fonseca et al., 1982). The

habitat complexity attracts high biodiversity and abundance of animals. They are also nutrient

sinks, buffering or filtering nutrient and chemical rich waters (Short and Short, 1984). The

high primary production rates are linked to high fishery production rates.

Monitoring seagrassess consists of mapping the distribution and density of existingmeadows to determine the natural variability (e.g. seasonal dieback) before estimates of loss

or gain due to perturbation can be made (English et al., 1994). Percentage cover are measured

within replicate quadrats placed at regular intervals along the length of a transect.

o Place transects perpendicular to the shore and that extend to the outer limits of the beds


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(where seagrass disappears). Transects should be parallel and separated by reasonabledistances from each other (50m to l00m). Take 3 replicate transects at each site. Swim alongthe transect along a compass bearing, perpendicular to the shore.Place 25cm x 25cm quadrats at regular intervals (5m-l0m) and estimate the percent coverusing similar categories to those used in coral reef surveying.Estimate the abundance and length of fish the same way as performed in the coral reef visualcensus.

2.3. TERRESTRIAL MONTIORING

Terrestrial environments in the Maldives play an important role in sustaining islandshapes and many indigenous species. Vegetation maintains the soil on the ground and hosts

70 bird species, many interesting reptiles and amphibians and mangrove communities. [nEnvironmental Impact Assessments, terrestrial monitoring should include evaluating thedamages caused by the project development on the following flora and fauna:

o Land clearance activities including removal of trees, shrubs, seedlings, forest litter;o Mangroves survey including area, species, health;o Reptiles and amphibians including species, population size, location;o Birds including species, population size and location;o Marine turtle tracks;o Soil texture changes, and,o Garbage description.

A general procedure for collecting island data is through focus group discussions whereislanders can identiff the major changes in flora and fauna. All stakeholders should attend

this meeting.

Finally, the legislation states that:

a

a

No trees shall be felled for tourism ventures (Regulation on the Protection and Conservation of the Environment

in the Tourism Industry)

The maximum area for construction allowed for tourism ventures is20%o.

The buffer zone between the high water mark and the first construction is 20 metres minimum.


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t ,flt Email: [email protected]

: i-|.i website: ww.epa.tov.mv

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3. SOCIO.ECONOMIC MONITORING

Public consultation is an important part of the project assessment since stakeholders willinfluence the success or failure of the project. If stakeholders and members of the public fullysupport the development activities will process much easier and benefits by both parties willbe apparent. The following is important in all consultations:

List of stakeholders and key informants, describe chronological plan of interviews and

meetings and key points of discussions;

Apply for all the necessary permits for project development;

Census of the economic activities in the area (project island and neighbouring islands);

Employment and economic opportunities and diversification in the area;

Impacts on ground water from construction and operational phase and water availability forlocals;Increased demands for natural resources and services in the area, e.g. water supply, energy,

waste water treatment, solid waste generation, health services, population pressure, space

availability, food and nutrition security -hsheries, agriculture, other- etc.

Impacts on tourism, and

Social destabilization of the island community.

The key outcomes from each stakeholder and key informant consultation ought to be

included in the EIA. Follow up consultation will validate the success of the project, failures

and suggest improvements.

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Nikatas Magu


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Email: [email protected]

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Figure 1 Project Site Layout and Study Boundary

OUTFALL

INTAKE

PLANT SITE

environmental impact assessment and audit

Documents