Environmental management plan for the proposed development of island waste management center in Dh. Rinbudhoo

Abstract

The proposed development of Island Waste Management Center (IWMC) in Dh Rinbudhoo is funded by the Public Sector Investment Program (PSIP) of the Government of Maldives. The aim of this project is to alleviate current waste management problems endured by the island community and thereby improve the overall environmental and public health condition of the island. The proposed IWMC will be developed in a 625 square meters’ area located in the south west side of the island. This site maintains sufficient distance from the residential population and vegetation line and meets the land allocation criteria of both Maldives Land and Survey Authority (MLSA) and Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). However, the beach immediately adjacent to the proposed site is subjected to erosion. The Island Council is currently in the process of establishing coastal protection measure to alleviate erosion and the works are expected to be completed within this year prior to the operationalization of the proposed IWMC. Furthermore, the young coconut palms found at the proposed site will be relocated to strengthen the south west vegetation line of the island during site clearance works, which would enhance the island’s natural defense against coastal erosion. 30 mature coconut palms, 22 young palms and one Indian Almond tree is found at the location. The mature coconut palms are owned by individuals and therefore, compensation will be provided to the owners prior to commencement of construction works. No environmentally protected or sensitive sites are present close to the IWMC. The project will provide basic infrastructure necessary to manage waste at island level and ensure composting is undertaken in the island. After completion of civil works, the IWMC will be operated by the Island Council in accordance to the Island Waste Management Plan. Training on composting for island level staffs and machinery such as, shredders, wood chippers and bottle crushers will be provided to facilitate adequate functioning of the IWMC. Waste that is not manageable at the island level will be stored and regularly transferred to a regional waste management facility (RWMF). All civil works of the project are expected to be completed within 6 months. Environmental impacts of the project were evaluated using the Rapid Impact Assessment Method (RIAM). Majority of the impacts envisaged for the project are highly positive. The project is expected to bring numerous economic benefits to the island community, in additional to the perceivable environmental and public health related benefits. The only permanent negative impact likely to occur as a result of the project is related to the removal of vegetation. However, the amount of vegetation clearance involved is minimal and therefore, if the mitigation measures proposed in this management plan are adhered, almost all the negative impacts can be brought to an acceptable level. The monitoring program proposed in the EMP will ensure the implementation of the mitigation measures and assist in the identification of unforeseen impacts throughout the project. Overall, the project is expected to provide significant socio-economic and environmental benefits for the local community.