Maldives National Universitysaruna.mnu.edu.mv › jspui › bitstream › 123456789 › 3346 › 1...

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Full Name SIMAD SAEED

Date of Birth 31/01/1971

National ID No. A-028105

Passport No. A-348816

Nationality Maldivian

Work Address CDE Pvt Ltd

4th Floor, Orchidmaage

Ameer Ahmed Magu

Male’, Maldives

Telephone (mobile) (960) 7777445

Telephone (work) (960) 3312514

E-mail [email protected]

profile

C O N S U LT I N G

3

www.cde.com.mv

Doctor of Philosophy

PhD Thesis Title: Social Capital and Well- Being: Delving into the deep

determinants of sustainability

March 2001 to June 2005

Asia Pacific School of Economics and Government

Australian National University, Australia

Master of Science - Environmental Assessment & Management

September 1994 to October 1995

Oxford Brookes University, UK

Bachelor of Science (Honours) Environmental Science

September 1990 to July1993

University of Southampton, UK

education

languages

Language Reading Spoken Written

English Excellent Excellent Excellent

French Fair Fair Fair

Dhivehi Excellent Excellent Excellent

Ahmed Shaig Phone: (+960) 77 88 758 [email protected]

Ahmed Shaig page 1

Personal Details

Date of Birth: 19/02/1976 Nationality: Maldivian Gender: Male Marital Status: Married

Permanent Address: Maldives Present Address: M. Muleege, Orchid Magu, Male’, Maldives.

Education PhD Candidate, Environmental Science, 2009 James Cook University, Townsville, Australia Research degree on ‘Settlement Planning for Natural Hazard Resilience in Small Island States: The Population and Development Consolidation Approach’

BSc Land and Spatial Information Studies/Information Science. (double major), 1999-2001 University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand

Diploma in project planning, implementation, monitoring and evaluation, 1995 ILO training Centre, Turin, Italy

Employment History Director, Environmental Services CDE Consulting Republic of Maldives Head of environmental wing Assistant Under-secretary, Spatial Planning

2008 to present Supervisor: Dr. Simad Saeed Phone: +(960) 7777445 2002-2004

Ministry of Planning and National Development Supervisor: Hon. Hamdun Hameed Republic of Maldives Phone: +(960) 332-3919 Head of Spatial Planning Unit. Relevant Tasks include: ♦ Oversee environment related projects and application of environmental guidelines for planned projects. ♦ Plan, implement and oversee the development of a National GIS; ♦ Aid/facilitate/oversee urban planning, housing, land use planning, natural resource planning and

environment related projects; Provide assistance in project planning (includes urban and regional planning, natural resources planning)

Project Manager, National Digital Mapping Project 2005 (8 months) Ministry of Planning and National Development Supervisor: Hon. Hamdun Hameed Republic of Maldives Phone: +(960) 332-3919 ♦ Project involved aerial photography and satellite imagery of entire Maldives, ground surveying of key

settlements, digital conversion of data and setting up a Mapping Unit. Assistant Planning Officer/Planning Officer 1994-1999 Ministry of Planning and National Development Supervisor: Mr. Mohamed Hunaif Republic of Maldives Phone +(960) 331-3040 Relevant tasks involved: ♦ Assisting in the National GIS Development Programme (Junior GIS developer) ♦ Facilitate urban planning, housing, land use planning, natural resource planning and environment related

projects.

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TITLE FLOW DIAGRAM DESIGNED BY I STATIC COMPANY PRIVATE LIMITED

PROJECT AQ50000STD LICENSE NO. I I SIGN

CUSTOMER STO - FUNADHOO D/W NO. RO -02/50 -1 DATE

Communication – VHF 69

COMMAND / CONTROL TEAM / COMMUNICATIONS INCHARGE Ismail Ali Jaleel - Report information to related parties and guide

to On scene In-charge 2" INCHARGE Ahmed Samah Shameem

ON SCENE INCHARGE Ali Naseer - Guide attack party & manage the location 2" INCHARGE Adam Moosa ATTACK PARTY

INCHARGE - Mohamed Shamoon - Attack fire with guidance by On scene In-

charge

Mohamed Ali (Maattey) Abdul latheef Mohamed Ziyam Mohamed Ali Nizar SUPPORT TEAM

INCHARGE - Badhurul Muneer

- Bring & Lay fire hoses - Arrange fire extinguishers - Arrange boundary cooling if necessary

Ibrahim Nasheed Mohamed Ali (Sataa) Mohamed Siaan Dawood Shafeeq Johnson Abdul Hooq Hassan Riyaz Saddam Saeed Ali Ismail FIRE PUMPS

Incharge – Hussain Ibrahim / Abdulla Mahid NO.3 FIRE PUMP - Start & Stop

Fire pump 3 - Stop fuel

deliveries & close valves

NO.4 PORTABLE FIRE PUMP

- Start & Stop fire pump 1 & 2

- Standby portable fire pump & lay hose

Hussain Ziyadh Hussain Ibrahim Nisfah Ahmed Riyaz Gasim Christhadhas Mohamed Rasheed Seenivasan ELECTRICAL WORK Mohamed Yasir - Stop genset (if necessary) Hussain Ibrahim TRANSPORT Ahmed Slaeem - Standby launch (handhi) Abdul Rahman FIRST AID Hassan Hameed - Ready with First Aid Kit Ahmed Shaafy SITE CHECK Z – 1 – Hussain Ibrahim / Ahmed Riyaz

- Check & call for all staff at site Z – 2- Hussain Ziyadh / Gasim Z – 3 – Abdul Hook /Nasheed Z – 4 – Mohamed Siaan / Ahmed Shaafy

FUEL DISTRIBUTION CENTRE STO

CONTINGENCY PLAN FOR FIRE Effective from 01

51

January 2011

State Trading Organization Plc (STO)

Consultant’s Declaration

I certify that statements made in this Environment Audit are true, complete and correct to the best

of my knowledge and available information.

Name: Signature

Simad Saeed (EIA 06/2007)

Prepared by: CDE Consulting P a g e | iii

Proponent’s Declaration

As the proponent of the proposed development I guarantee that I have read the report thoroughly and that to the best of my knowledge all information provided here is accurate and complete.

Name.....................

Signature....................

Date..............

Environmental Audit for Registration of the Existing Desalination Plant Kaafu Funadhoo Isalnd

Prepared by: CDE Consulting P a g e | iv

Table of Contents

Consultant’s Declaration ......................................................................................................................... ii

Proponent’s Declaration ........................................................................................................................ iii

List of Figures ........................................................................................................................................ vii

List of Tables ........................................................................................................................................ viii

Non-Technical Summary ........................................................................................................................ ix

1 Introduction .................................................................................................................................. 11

1.1 Purpose ................................................................................................................................. 11

1.2 Terms of Reference (TOR) ..................................................................................................... 11

1.3 Report Outline....................................................................................................................... 11

1.4 Environment Audit Team Members ..................................................................................... 12

2 Scope and Methodology of Audit ................................................................................................. 13

2.1 Scope of the Audit ................................................................................................................. 13

2.2 Methodologies of the EIA ..................................................................................................... 13

2.3 Survey and Data Collection ................................................................................................... 13

3 Policy and Legal Framework ......................................................................................................... 15

3.1 Acts ........................................................................................................................................ 15

3.1.1 Environment Protection and Preservation Act (Act no. 4/93) ...................................... 15

3.2 Regulations and Guidelines ................................................................................................... 16

3.2.1 Environmental Impact Assessment Regulations 2007 .................................................. 16

3.2.2 Regulation on Desalination ........................................................................................... 16

3.3 Development Framework and Policies ................................................................................. 16

3.3.1 Strategic Action Plan 2009 – 2013 National Framework for Development “Anne

Dhiveh Raaje” ................................................................................................................................ 16

3.3.2 National Energy Policy .................................................................................................. 17

3.3.2 Policy on Water ............................................................................................................. 17

3.4 Environmental Permits Required for the Project ................................................................. 18

3.4.1 Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Decision Note ............................................... 18

3.5 International Conventions .................................................................................................... 18

3.5.1 Vienna Convention and Montreal Protocol .................................................................. 18

3.5.2 UNFCCC and Kyoto Protocol ......................................................................................... 18


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3.6 Key Government Institutions ................................................................................................ 19

3.6.1 Ministry of Housing and Environment .......................................................................... 19

4 Project Description ........................................................................................................................ 20

4.1 Project Proponent ................................................................................................................. 20

4.2 Project Location .................................................................................................................... 20

4.3 Project Objectives ................................................................................................................. 21

4.4 Project Components ............................................................................................................. 21

4.4.1 Site Plan ......................................................................................................................... 21

4.4.2 Desalination Plant House .............................................................................................. 21

4.4.3 Desalination System ...................................................................................................... 22

4.4.4 Capacity of Desalination Plant and Water Storage Units ............................................. 22

4.4.5 Method of Saltwater Intake .......................................................................................... 22

4.4.6 Method of Brine Discharge ........................................................................................... 23

4.4.7 Disinfection and Reticulation Mechanism .................................................................... 23

4.4.8 Water Quality Monitoring and Water Security Measures ............................................ 23

4.4.9 Safety ............................................................................................................................ 23

5 Existing Environment .................................................................................................................... 25

5.1 Methodologies ...................................................................................................................... 26

5.2 Study Area and Survey Locations .......................................................................................... 26

5.3 Physical Environment ............................................................................................................ 27

5.3.1 Meteorology.................................................................................................................. 27

5.3.2 Coastal Environment ..................................................................................................... 30

5.3.3 Groundwater Quality .................................................................................................... 31

5.3.4 Marine Water Quality ................................................................................................... 32

5.3.5 Desalinated Water Quality ............................................................................................ 32

5.4 Biological Environment ......................................................................................................... 33

5.4.1 Terrestrial Environment ................................................................................................ 33

5.4.2 Marine Environment ..................................................................................................... 34

5.5 Human Environment ............................................................................................................. 35

5.5.1 Noise ............................................................................................................................. 35

5.5.2 Air Quality ..................................................................................................................... 35

6 Impacts and Suggested Mitigation Measures ............................................................................... 36

6.1.1 Groundwater Contamination ........................................................................................ 36

6.1.2 Pollution due to Waste ................................................................................................. 36


Prepared by: CDE Consulting P a g e | vi

6.1.3 Degradation of Air Quality ............................................................................................ 36

6.1.4 Impingement and Entrainment of Marine Organisms .................................................. 37

6.1.5 Degradation of Marine Environment ............................................................................ 38

6.2 Impact Analysis ..................................................................................................................... 39

6.3 Uncertainties in Impact Prediction ....................................................................................... 40

7 Environmental Performance and Compliance .............................................................................. 41

7.1 Performance and Compliance ............................................................................................... 41

7.1.1 Source Water Intake ..................................................................................................... 41

7.1.2 Sedimentation Tank ...................................................................................................... 41

7.1.3 Environmental Aesthetics ............................................................................................. 41

7.1.4 Capacity of Desalination System ................................................................................... 41

7.1.5 Brine Discharge ............................................................................................................. 42

7.1.6 Desalination Plant House .............................................................................................. 42

7.1.7 Storage and Handling of Chemicals .............................................................................. 42

7.1.8 Availability of and Access to Operation Manuals ......................................................... 42

7.1.9 Noise Levels ................................................................................................................... 42

7.1.10 Water Quality Monitoring ............................................................................................. 43

7.1.11 Management and Maintenance ................................................................................... 43

7.2 Summary of Compliance ....................................................................................................... 43

8 Environmental Management and Monitoring .............................................................................. 46

8.1 Environmental Management ................................................................................................ 46

8.1.1 Desalination Plant and Associated Infrastructure ........................................................ 46

8.1.2 Management of Product Water Quality ....................................................................... 47

8.1.3 Fire Prevention and Control .......................................................................................... 47

8.1.4 Fuel and Hazardous Chemicals ..................................................................................... 48

8.1.5 Waste Management...................................................................................................... 49

8.2 Monitoring Programme ........................................................................................................ 50

8.3 Commitment ......................................................................................................................... 52

8.4 Monitoring Report ................................................................................................................ 52

8.5 Cost of Monitoring ................................................................................................................ 52

9 Conclusions and Recommendations ............................................................................................. 54

10 References ................................................................................................................................ 55

Appendix 1 – Terms of Reference ............................................................................................................ i

Appendix 2 – CVs of Consultants ............................................................................................................ ii

Appendix 3 Survey Locations ................................................................................................................. iii

Appendix 4 Site Plan .............................................................................................................................. iv


Prepared by: CDE Consulting P a g e | vii

Appendix 5 Process Flow Diagram ........................................................................................................... i

Appendix 6 Emergency Safety Fire Plan................................................................................................... i

Appendix 7 Water Quality Report ........................................................................................................... ii

Appendix 8 Commitment Letter by Project Proponent ......................................................................... iii

List of Figures

Figure ‎4-1Kaafu Atoll and Project Location .......................................................................................... 21

Figure ‎4-2Site plan with location of desalination plant house, desalinated water storage tank,

seawater intake point and brine outfall point ...................................................................................... 21

Figure ‎4-3 Inside the desalination plant room ...................................................................................... 22

Figure ‎4-4 Intake pipeline ..................................................................................................................... 22

Figure ‎4-5 Water pump station for desalination plant ......................................................................... 23

Figure ‎5-1 Study area and survey locations .......................................................................................... 26

Figure ‎5-2: Summary of mean rainfall and temperature values for Male’ International Airport. ....... 27

Figure ‎5-3Monthly Frequencies of Wind Direction in Central Maldives based on National

Meteorological Center 27 year Data (adapted from Naseer, 2003). .................................................... 29

Figure ‎5-4: 27 Year Wind Frequency Recorded at Hulhule Meteorological Center. ............................ 29

Figure ‎5-5Mean Daily Wind Speed and Direction Recorded at National Meteorological Center.

Arrows Indicate Dominant Wind Direction (Adapted from Naseer, 2003) .......................................... 30

Figure 5-6 Benthic composition along the water intake pipeline……………………………………………………34

Figure 5-7 Benthic composition near the brine outfall…………………………………………………………………….35


Prepared by: CDE Consulting P a g e | viii

List of Tables

Table ‎5-1 Summary of General Wind Conditions for National Meteorological Center ........................ 28

Table ‎5-2Tidal Variations at Male’ International Airport (source: MEC 2004) ..................................... 31

Table ‎6-1 Characterization of impacts .................................................................................................. 39

Table ‎6-2 Suggested mitigation measures and residual significance ................................................... 39

Table ‎7-1 Internationally used noise standards for different zones ..................................................... 42

Table ‎7-2 Summary of compliance of the desalination plants ............................................................. 43

Table ‎8-1 Potential hazards and risks related to water system ............................................................ 46

Table ‎8-2 Environmental Management Plan for desalination plant and associated infrastructure .... 46

Table ‎8-3 Product water sampling locations ........................................................................................ 47

Table ‎8-4 Environmental Management Plan for fire prevention and control ...................................... 47

Table ‎8-5 Environmental management measures for fuel and hazardous chemicals .......................... 48

Table ‎8-6 Environmental management measures related to waste management .............................. 49

Table ‎8-7 Proposed monitoring timetable monitoring ......................................................................... 51

Table ‎8-8 Proposed schedule for monitoring ....................................................................................... 52

Table ‎8-9 Estimated cost breakdown for monitoring the work ............................................................ 53


Prepared by: CDE Consulting P a g e | ix

Non-Technical Summary

The purpose of this Environmental Audit report is to fulfill the requirements to get necessary

environmental clearance from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to carry out the

registration of the desalination plant at Kaafu Funadhoo.

The project involves auditing of the existing desalination plant in Kaafu Funadhoo. Desalination

system involves one (01) plant with a total capacity of 50 m3 per day. There is one (01) water storage

tank with the capacity of 500 metric tons. The seawater intake is located on the South West (SW) of

the island with a length of approximately 145 m from the shoreline. The brine discharge point is

located West South West (WSW) side if the island extending a length of approximately 0.1 m from the

shoreline and into the lagoon region. The facility is under operation from the year 2002.

The environmental impacts associated with this project include, increased noise levels, impingement

and entrainment of marine organisms during seawater intake, impact on marine environment due to

brine discharge, waste management hazards related to chemicals handling and disposal and

beneficial impact of preserving the groundwater. There are indirect impacts associated with

consumption of energy for desalination. Power generation has the potential to degrade air quality

and contributes to global warming. In addition, fuel handling related to power generation is a

potential risk for ground water and soil contamination from fuel spills and leaks.

A number of mitigation measures are already in place. Facility is located considerably the best spot

accounting to the lack of land and space. Desalination plant house building is elevated above ground

level and attenuated to reduce noise level. Seawater intake and brine discharge are appropriately

located from shoreline. Seawater intake is appropriately designed with a copper foot valve at the

uptake end. In order to protect the environment from potential fuel spills, proper pipelines are

established and fuel storage is in bunded areas.

The desalination system is in compliance with Desalination Regulation of Maldives. Source water is

from the deep sea. Sedimentation tank is appropriately sized and located. The desalination plant

house is located to minimize aesthetic impact. Capacity of desalination system exceeds the demand

for water. Brine discharge is at appropriate, location marine assessment indicates no or less

proliferation of biodiversity that needs further investigating. Desalination plant house includes

channel ways for drainage and is kept clean and tidy with clear pathways. Chemicals are organized

with proper labeling. Operation manuals are available and easily accessible. The structural integrity

of the facilities is considered good.

Environmental management plan is provided particularly for desalination units, product water

quality, fire prevention, chemicals handling and waste management. A monitoring plan is proposed

to observe any changes taking place due to the operation of desalination plant. In the event that

monitoring indicates that any environmental quality is deteriorating to unacceptable levels, the


Prepared by: CDE Consulting P a g e | x

proponent will correct operation procedures that are contributing to the problem and/or undertake

necessary engineering installations.

Environmental Audit for Registration of the Existing Desalination Plant Kaafu Funadhoo Island

Prepared by: CDE Consulting P a g e | 11

1 Introduction

1.1 Purpose

The purpose of the report is to meet the legislative requirements of Environmental Protection

Agency (EPA) and Maldives Energy Authority (MEA) for the registration of the desalination plant at

Kaafu Funadhoo Island.

The EIA Regulation 2007 requires an EIA to be undertaken for desalination plant. Likewise,

Desalination Regulation of the Maldives requires the EIA Decision Statement be submitted to the

relevant authorities for the registration of the facility.

Desalination plant at Kaafu Funadhoo is in operation. Therefore, EPA has required an Environmental

Audit of the desalination plant of the island.

This report is developed for State Trading Organization Plc by CDE Consulting.

1.2 Terms of Reference (TOR)

This EIA is compiled and presented based on the EIA Regulation published in 2007. The EIA is

prepared based on the Terms of Reference (TOR) issued by EPA for this project on 4th August 2011.

According to the TOR issued by EPA, the report should be submitted within three (03) months from

the date of issue.

The Terms of Reference for this EIA is enclosed in Appendix 1. (See Appendix 1 for the ToR).

1.3 Report Outline

This EIA report is organised into seven major chapters. A brief description of the all seven chapters is

outlined in Table 1.1 as follows.

Table 1.1 Report Outline with Brief Description

Chapter Brief Description

Chapter 1 Introduction

Chapter 2 Detail methodology adopted for the EIA report and how appropriate mitigation measures are developed and the whole scope of this EIA report.

Chapter 3 A summary of the policy, planning and legal framework applicable to the audit and a demonstration of how the existing facilities comply with the existing environmental policies and regulations.

Chapter 4 A description of the project including the project location, information on the proponent, detailed description of project components including site conditions and site plans.



Chapter Brief Description

Chapter 5 Detailed description of the existing baseline environmental conditions.

Chapter 6 Information on the operational impacts and mitigation measures of the project.

Chapter 7 Details of the environmental monitoring program

1.4 Environment Audit Team Members

The project team members and their areas of contributions are listed in Table 1.2 below. Curriculum

Vitae of consultants are attached in Appendix 2.

Table 1.2 Audit team and their areas of contribution

Consultant Areas of Contribution

Dr. Simad Saeed Team Leader, Social Scientist and Environmental Management and Planning

Dr. Ahmed Shaig Terrestrial Environment, Risk Assessment and GIS

Lubna Moosa Environmental Management and Development

Ali Moosa Didi Surveyor

Mohamed Shinaz Saeed Marine Specialist



2 Scope and Methodology of Audit

2.1 Scope of the Audit

This Environmental Audit comprises of the assessment necessary for the registration of the

desalination plant of Kaafu Funadhoo. The ToR issued by the Environmental Protection Agency is

provided in Appendix 1.

The scope of the audit is to assess the environmental performance of the existing desalination plant

at Kaafu Funadhoo in order to enable the registration of the facilities according to the Desalination

Regulation of the Maldives. There is no construction of additional infrastructure in relation to

desalination plant.

2.2 Methodologies of the EIA

The process followed in the preparation of this EIA report consists of four parts. These are:

- Literature review;

- Field surveys;

- Analysis of results; and

- Compilation of the assessment in the form of a report.

The first phase of this project was carried out in parallel with the stakeholder consultations.

Literature review being a key element in this process it enables to acquire background information

on the site and its environment as well as to identify possible environmental impacts of similar

developments in island settings. In this context, the EIA Regulations 2007, best practices from similar

development activities, scientific studies undertaken in similar settings around Maldives and

previous documents/historical publications was considered.

The second stage involved field assessment on the island and areas covered by the EIA scope.

Conditions of the existing environment were analyzed using established scientific methods. Field

surveys were undertaken from 13th August 2011.

The third stage involved analysis using scientific analysis methods. These methods will be explained

in detail in later sections.

The final stage involved compilation of individual consultants’ findings and finalizing the report to

submit to EPA.

2.3 Survey and Data Collection



The environmental audit was undertaken by two different aspects. Firstly, legislative compliance was

assessed based on requirements of the relevant laws and regulations and, registering authorities.

Secondly, environmental impacts of the operations and level of mitigation was investigated. The

existing environment was studied using scientific methods to assess the environmental impacts of

the operations. A checklist was developed to identify areas and parameters of assessment that

should be in compliance with relevant legislation.

Details of the plant were collected by observation of the facilities and interviews with the

management.

The environmental components of the study area were divided into terrestrial and marine

environment. Terrestrial environment covered the existing vegetation in the utilities area and

groundwater quality. The marine environment covered the lagoon habitats and coral reef system

including coral patches, and marine water quality near seawater intake and brine discharge outfall.

Noise measurements were taken using a noise meter as spot readings according to regulatory

requirements. Current and tidal data was taken from previous researches and study reports.

The project involves investigation of quality of ground water, marine water from the intake and

outfall and also the desalinated water. To assess these water qualities of the site, samples were

collected in dry clean 1500 ml PET bottles, 250 ml glass bottles and 250 ml sterilized water bottles

after washing them with water to be sampled. All parameters were analysed at the National Health

Laboratory, MFDA and Water Quality Assurance Laboratory, MWSC.

All sampling locations were identified using GPS and are presented in Appendix 3.



3 Policy and Legal Framework

This Chapter will provide a summary of the legal instruments applicable to the project and

demonstrate how the project conforms to these aspects.

3.1 Acts

Acts in this report is defined as the law which is endorsed by the parliament which act as the

guideline to produce necessary regulations to further strengthen the whole constitution.

3.1.1 Environment Protection and Preservation Act (Act no. 4/93)

Environment Protection and Preservation Act of Maldives (4/93) is the framework law on

environmental management in the Maldives. Articles 2, 4, 5, 6, 7, and 8 of the law are relevant to

this project.

Article 2 states that the concerned government authorities shall provide the necessary guidelines

and advise on environmental protection in accordance with the prevailing conditions and needs of

the country. All concerned parties shall take due considerations of the guidelines provided by the

government authorities. The project proponent shall abide by any guidelines or advice given by the

concerned Government authorities for the project. The concerned Government authorities are

identified in this Chapter.

Article 4 states that the Ministry of Housing, Transport and Environment shall be responsible for

identifying protected areas and natural reserves and for drawing up the necessary rules and

regulations for their protections and preservation. There are no protected areas located in the close

vicinity of the project.

According to Article 5 (a) of the Act, an Environmental Impact Assessment study shall be submitted

to the Ministry of Housing, Transport and Environment (MHTE) before implementing any activity

that may have an impact on the environment. This environmental audit has been prepared for an

existing facility.

According to Article 6, the Ministry of Housing, Transport and Environment has the authority to

terminate any project that has any undesirable impact on the environment. A project so terminated

shall not receive any compensation.

Article 7 of the Environment Protection Act (4/93) prohibits the disposal of wastes, oil and gases in a

manner that will damage the environment. Wastes, oil and gases has to be disposed off in areas

designated by the Government. Waste oil generated from the powerhouse is taken to Thilfushi

waste disposal site for disposal.

Article 8 of the Environment Protection Act (4/93) prohibits the disposal of hazardous wastes. Any

hazardous wastes that may be generated from the project shall be transferred to the designated



Regional Waste Collection and Management Center for disposal according to Government

regulations and standards.

3.2 Regulations and Guidelines

3.2.1 Environmental Impact Assessment Regulations 2007

Environmental Impact Assessment Regulations were issued by Environment Ministry on 1st May

2007. The first step in environmental assessment process involves screening of the project to be

classified as one that requires an EIA or not. Based on this decision, the Ministry then decides the

scope of the EIA which is discussed with the proponent and the EIA consultants in a “scoping

meeting”. The consultants then undertake the EIA starting with baseline studies, impact prediction

and finally reporting the findings with impact mitigation and monitoring plan. This report follows the

principles and procedures for EIA outlined in the EIA regulations.

The EIA report is reviewed by the Environment Protection Agency under MHTE following which an

EIA Decision Note is given to the proponent who will have to implement the Decision Note

accordingly. As a condition of approval, appropriate environmental monitoring may be required and

the proponent shall have to report monitoring data at required intervals to the MHTE. The project

proponent is committed to implement all impact mitigation measures that are specified in this EIA

report. Furthermore, the proponent is committed to environmental monitoring and shall fulfil

environmental monitoring requirements that may be specified in the EIA decision note as a

condition for project approval.

The process stated in the Environmental Impact Assessment Regulation was followed in preparing

this Environmental Audit.

3.2.2 Regulation on Desalination

Desalination System regulation requires the registration of desalination systems that will be

operated for use by a population exceeding 200 or for large-scale agricultural or tourism activities or

for the purpose of implementing project(s) that involves economic or industrial operations. Prior to

the establishment of desalination system, an EIA must be carried out in accordance with regulations

issued by MHTE. Since no EIA has been undertaken for the existing desalination plant in Palm Beach,

this audit is required for the registration of the plant in accordance with the regulation.

The Desalination Regulation of the Maldives does not have specific requirements for brine discharge

except if the brine is discharged into a public sewer. Also, there are no policies, guidelines or

regulations relating to the disposal of brine into the marine environment.

3.3 Development Framework and Policies

3.3.1 Strategic Action Plan 2009 – 2013 National Framework for Development “Anne

Dhiveh Raaje”



The Strategic Action Plan (SAP) provides the National Development Framework for the period 2009-

2013. It has been compiled through consultation with multiple sectors and by reviewing

development trends, emerging issues, goals, policies and interventions relevant to the five main

pledges and key themes of the MDP Alliance Manifesto.

The five pledges listed below represent the vision on which the people elected this government.

- Nationwide transport system

- Ensuring affordable living costs

- Provision of affordable housing

- Providing quality healthcare for all

- Prevention of Narcotics abuse and trafficking

3.3.2 National Energy Policy

The national energy policy is of particular relevance to this project. The objectives of the energy

policy are:

- Ensure a continuous and economically viable diversity of energy supplies to sustain

socioeconomic development, without compromising the environment, health and safety.

- Guarantee accessibility of affordable and reliable energy services to all people.

- Enhance national energy security by promoting indigenously available renewable sources of

energy while creating new jobs and strengthening the economy.

- Protect the environment and health of the people by ensuring environmentally sound

energy supply and usage.

- Promote energy conservation and energy efficiency to achieve optimum economic use of

renewable and non‐renewable sources of energy and reduce consumption without lowering

the quality of service rendered.

- Ensure transparency of energy sector planning and operations to attract both national and

international investors where appropriate.

3.3.2 Policy on Water

As addressed in the Health Master Plan 1996 – 2005, the key elements of the policy on water are:

- Preserve water resources and protect the aquifer and marine environment from

contamination; and

- Provide access to safe potable and non‐potable water.

The key objectives of the policy on water are to:

- Reduce infant and child mortality rate due to diarrhea and other waterborne diseases.

- Provide universal access to 10L of water/person/day for drinking and cooking and

40L/person/day on islands with groundwater contamination;

- Minimise groundwater contamination from septic tanks;

- Promote the protection and conservation of water resources and facilitate the use of

rainwater;



- Protect the groundwater aquifers;

- Expand water supply technology to the islands;

- Identify alternative technologies for water supply;

- Ensure 50 per cent of households have access to water conservation materials;

- Ensure 50 per cent of islands have trained and equipped water supply system operators;

- Develop policies, procedures, approaches and long‐term strategies for water supply;

- Ensure that 50 per cent of the community and school water tanks are well‐maintained and

regularly chlorinated.

The policy on water is particularly relevant to this project since the project site is utilized as a

commercial business spot the probable contamination of the groundwater of the island is always to

be considered during any disaster or oil spill.

3.4 Environmental Permits Required for the Project

3.4.1 Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Decision Note

The most important environmental permit required to register both facilities is a decision (referred

to as the Decision Note) regarding this EIA. This environment audit report assists decision makers in

understanding the impacts of the project. Therefore, the Decision Note may only be given to the

Proponent after a review of this document following which the Ministry may request for further

information or provide a decision if further information is not required. In some cases, where there

are no major environmental impacts associated with the project, the Ministry may provide the

Decision Note while at the same time requesting for further information.

3.5 International Conventions

3.5.1 Vienna Convention and Montreal Protocol

The Montreal Protocol made it illegal for member countries to use CFC containing refrigerators and

air conditioners. The Montreal Protocol also prohibits the use of halon containing fire extinguishers.

The proponent complies with the provisions of the Montreal protocol and Vienna Convention by

using CFC and halon free fire extinguishers in the powerhouse and the desalination plant building.

3.5.2 UNFCCC and Kyoto Protocol

The Maldives is a party to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change and the

Kyoto Protocol to the UNFCCC. The objective of the Convention is to achieve, in accordance with the

relevant provisions of the Convention, stabilization of greenhouse gas concentrations in the

atmosphere at a level that would prevent dangerous anthropogenic interference with the climate

system. Such a level should be achieved within a time-frame sufficient to allow ecosystems to adapt

naturally to climate change, to ensure that food production is not threatened and to enable

economic development to proceed in a sustainable manner.



The IPCC defines mitigation “as an anthropogenic intervention to reduce the sources or enhance the

sinks of greenhouse gases.” The greenhouse gas inventory of the Maldives forms an integral part of

the First National Communication of the Maldives to the UNFCCC. In March 2009, the President of

the Maldives has announced the target to make Maldives carbon neutral by 2020. Hence, careful

attention needs to be given to ensure energy efficiency and reduce fuel consumption.

3.6 Key Government Institutions

3.6.1 Ministry of Housing and Environment

Ministry of Housing and Environment is the former Ministry of Environment, Energy and Water

which is mandated for protection and preservation of environment and natural resources of the

country. Under the current government which took office in 2008 restructured itself to present

current structure, of EPA and MEA.

Within MHE there is a department “Water and Sanitation Department” which formulates the water

policy and water based guidelines and also prepares water and sanitation regulation such as

Desalination Regulation.

3.6.1.1 Environmental Protection Agency

The Major task for the EPA is to enforce the EPPA 4/93. EPA has a branch within to monitor and

regulate water and sanitation problems. This is formally known as Maldives Water and Sanitation

Authority. It also has an EIA section which deals with all the EIA work and their enforcement.

3.6.1.2 Maldives Energy Authority

This office is mandated to regulate the energy sector of the Maldives. This body determines the tariff

structure and approve deigns for the electricity network.



4 Project Description

4.1 Project Proponent

State Trading Organization Plc is registered at Ministry of Economic Development under the

Companies Act of the Republic of Maldives (Law no. 10/96) which came into force on 01st of July

1997, and bounded by the Maldives Companies General Regulations which came in to force in 01st

February 2003. State Trading Organization Plc serves as the proponent of this environmental audit

for existing desalination plant in Kaafu Funadhoo.

4.2 Project Location

Kaafu Funadhoo Island is located on the southern rim of Kaafu Atoll at approximately 4° 11'01.07" N

latitude and 73° 31' 04.54" E longitude (see Figure 4.1) The total land area of island is approximately

4.816 ha within the low tide line.

The main vegetation found in the island is Kaani (Cordia subcordata) and Dhivehi Ruh (Cocos

nucifera ). The island was commercially opened for business on the year 2002.The site is used as an

oil storage bank for diesel, petrol and kerosene. Currently a total of 08 storage tanks are in operation

at the site, accounting to a storage capacity of 15544 tons of diesel and 600 tons of Kerosene. A total

of fourty (40) workers at various levels are registered as employees at the site.

The project site is located 1.4 km North East (NE) from the capital city, Male’ and 1.3 km South West

(SW) from the Ibrahim Nasir International Airport.

Figure 4.1 shows the Kaafu atoll and the project location.



Figure 4-1Kaafu Atoll and Project Location

4.3 Project Objectives

The objective of registering the desalination plant is to ensure that all legislative requirements of the

Government of Maldives are met in operation of the desalination plant.

4.4 Project Components

4.4.1 Site Plan

Figure 4.3 shows the site plan including the location of the desalination plant house, desalinated

water storage tank, seawater intake point and brine discharge outfall point. A3 size scaled map of

the site plan is given in Appendix 4.

Figure 4-2Site plan with location of desalination plant house, desalinated water storage tank, seawater intake point and brine outfall point

4.4.2 Desalination Plant House

The desalination plant house is located at the West North West (WSW) side of island, encompasses

an area of 40.49 sq meters. The facility is sited in a designated place, well built for such a service

with an applicable elevation from the floor for future prediction such as flooding in the island

The building accommodates the desalination units, stock of maintenance tools and spare parts and

chemical storage.



4.4.3 Desalination System

Funadhoo Island is equipped with one (01) desalination plant. The plant was installed in October

2002. Desalinated water supply is only used in toilet showers and taps. Figure 4.3 shows

arrangements inside the desalination plant house.

Figure 4-3 Inside the desalination plant room

Process flow diagram of desalination plant is provided in Appendix 5.

4.4.4 Capacity of Desalination Plant and Water Storage Units

The total production capacity of the desalination plant is of 50 m3 per day.

There is one (01) water storage tank with a capacity of five hundred (500) metric tons approximately.

The structure is found to be in good condition, built up of mild steel and painted outside.

4.4.5 Method of Saltwater Intake

Intake of seawater for desalination is using one pipeline located on South West (SW) of the island.

The pipeline is of length approximately 145 m from the shoreline as portrayed in Figure 4.4.

Figure 4-4 Intake pipeline



Seawater is pumped from the ocean to the sedimentation tank. Figure 4.5 shows the water pump

station for the desalination plant.

Figure 4-5 Water pump station for desalination plant

4.4.6 Method of Brine Discharge

Brine is discharged to the lagoon using a pipeline situated approximately 0.1 m from shoreline as

portrayed in Figure 4.2.

4.4.7 Disinfection and Reticulation Mechanism

No further disinfection done before conveyance to utilization as per the operational management at

site currently. The water produced is stated to be mainly used in toilets and washing purposes in

kitchen.

The water produced after the final reverse osmosis stage is conveyed to the water storage tank via

underground pipelines. Underground pipeline network is used to supply desalinated water to the

kitchen, toilets and other facilities on the island.

4.4.8 Water Quality Monitoring and Water Security Measures

No water quality monitoring mechanism is established at site currently.

Water production capacity of the system exceeds the demand as set by the Desalination Regulation.

In addition, water storage capacity is above production capacity.

4.4.9 Safety

Safety measures include:

Fire extinguishers were available inside the desalination plant house.

One warning sign is placed on the entrance wall “Danger: authorized personnel only”

Emergency first aid kits are available at site



Emergency safety fire plan (attached in Appendix 6).

Figure 4-6 Fire extinguishers inside the desalination plant house



5 Existing Environment

This section assembles, evaluates and presents baseline data on the relevant environmental

characteristics of the study area and includes the following subsections:

1) Study Methodologies

2) Physical Environment

a) Climate - General climatic patterns, wind, rainfall

b) Coastal Environment - Waves, currents, tides, bathymetry, coastal geomorphology, beaches

c) Lagoon and reef flat - Lagoon bottom conditions, sea grass communities, marine water

quality, sediment levels

3) Natural and Biological Environment

a) Terrestrial Environment - Vegetation, groundwater aquifer, air quality and noise.

b) Coral Reefs - Marine life including coral reef and other marine organisms



5.1 Methodologies

Baseline environment of the study area were analysed by using standard scientific methods. The

environmental components of the study area were divided into marine, terrestrial, coastal and

aquatic resources. The marine environment of the island covered the lagoon habitats including coral

patches and marine water quality. The coastal environment covered the beaches, the beach rock

formations and coastal processes including longshore sediment transport, nearshore currents, tides

and wave climate. The terrestrial environment covered the flora and fauna inland including coastal

vegetation and habitats within them, groundwater quality, air quality and noise.

Particular attention was placed in detailed surveys on the flora and fauna and marine environment

life, as these components are likely to involve the most significant environmental impacts. The

different methods used in assessing and presenting the conditions of the existing environment of the

island are given in the following subsections.

5.2 Study Area and Survey Locations

Study area and survey locations are shown in Figure 5.1 (see Appendix 3 for a large version of the

map)

Figure 5-1 Study area and survey locations



5.3 Physical Environment

5.3.1 Meteorology

5.3.1.1 Climate

The climate in Maldives is warm and humid, typical of the tropics. The average temperature ranges

between 25C to 30C and relative humidity varies from 73 percent to 85 percent. The annual

average rainfall is approximately 1,948 mm (MHAHE, 2001). As Maldives lies on the equator,

Maldives receives plenty of sunshine throughout the year. Significant variation is observed in the

climate between the northern and the southern atolls. The annual average rainfall in the southern

atolls is higher than the northern atolls. In addition, greater extremes of temperature are also

recorded in the southern atolls.

There is no climate station on the proposed site. The nearest weather station is in Male’

International Airport. The mean daily maximum temperature is 30.5C and minimum temperature is

25.7 C. The average annual rainfall is 1924.7 mm and there is torrential rain during the wet season

(Southwest monsoon). Figure 5.2 provides a summary of key meteorological condition at Male’

Region.

Figure 5-2: Summary of mean rainfall and temperature values for Male’ International Airport.

5.3.1.2 Monsoons

The climate of Maldives is characterised by the monsoons of Indian Ocean. Monsoon wind reversal

significantly affects weather patterns. Two monsoon seasons are observed in Maldives: the

Northeast (Iruvai) and the Southwest (Hulhangu) monsoon. The parameters that best distinguish the



two monsoons are wind and rainfall patterns. The southwest monsoon is the rainy season while the

northeast monsoon is the dry season. The southwest monsoon occurs from May to September and

the northeast monsoon is from December to February. The transition period of southwest monsoon

occurs between March and April while that of northeast monsoon occurs from October to

November.

5.3.1.3 Winds

The winds that occur across Maldives are mostly determined by the monsoon seasons. The two

monsoons are considered mild given that Maldives is located close to the equator. As a result, strong

winds and gales are infrequent although storms and line squalls can occur, usually in the period May

to July. During stormy conditions gusts of up to 60 knots have been recorded at Male’.

Wind has been uniform in speed and direction over the past twenty-plus monsoon seasons in the

Maldives (Naseer, 2003). Wind speed is usually higher in central region of Maldives during both

monsoons, with a maximum wind speed recorded at 18 ms-1 for the period 1975 to 2001. Mean

wind speed as highest during the months May and October in the central region. Wind analysis

indicates that the monsoon is considerably stronger in central and northern region of Maldives

compared to the south (Naseer, 2003).

Wind recorded at National Meteorological Center (Hulhule) indicates that strong windy conditions

generally occur during south-west monsoons. Wind gusts of 35 mph to 45 mph were occasionally

recorded when effects of cyclones from Arabian Sea were felt in the country. Direction of wind

changes predominantly from north-east in the northeast monsoon to west and south-west in the

southwest monsoon and variable direction of wind are experienced in the monsoon transition

periods.

Table 5.1 summarises the wind conditions in central Maldives throughout a year. Medium term

meteorological data from National meteorological center (see Figures 5.3 – 5.5) and findings from

long-term Comprehensive Ocean-Atmosphere Data Set (COADS) are used in this analysis.

Table 5-1 Summary of General Wind Conditions for National Meteorological Center

Season Month Wind

NE - Monsoon December Predominantly from NW-

NE.

High Speeds from NE

January

February

Transition Period

1

March From all directions. Mainly

W.

High Speeds from W.

April

SW - Monsoon May Mainly from W.

High Speeds from W. June

July

August

September

Transition Period October Mainly from W.



2 November High Speeds from W

Figure 5-3Monthly Frequencies of Wind Direction in Central Maldives based on National Meteorological Center 27 year Data (adapted from Naseer, 2003).

Figure 5-4: 27 Year Wind Frequency Recorded at Hulhule Meteorological Center.



Figure 5-5Mean Daily Wind Speed and Direction Recorded at National Meteorological Center. Arrows Indicate Dominant Wind Direction (Adapted from Naseer, 2003)

5.3.2 Coastal Environment

5.3.2.1 Waves

Two major types of waves are observed along the coast of Maldives. The first type is wave generated

by local monsoon wind with a period of 3-8 seconds and the second type is swells generated by

distance storms with a period of 14-20 seconds (Lanka Hydraulics 1988a & 1998b). The local

monsoon predominantly generates wind waves which are typically strongest during April-July in the

south-west monsoon period. Wave data for Male and Hulhule’ between June 1988 and January 1990

(Lanka Hydraulics 1988a & 1998b) shows that the maximum significant wave height (Hs) recorded

for June was 1.23 m with a mean period (Tm) of 7.53s. The maximum recorded Hs for July was 1.51

m with a Tm of 7.74s. The mean wave periods for the survey period were 5.0 – 9.0s and the peak

wave periods were within 8.0 – 13.0s.

Maldives experiences occasional flooding caused by long distance swell waves that are generated by

South Indian Ocean storms (Goda 1988). The swell waves of height 3 metres that flooded Male’ and

Hulhule’ in 1987 are said to have originated from a low pressure system off west coast of Australia.

More recently in May 2007 swell waves that originated from the southwestern side of the Indian

Ocean caused flooding in 35 inhabited islands across 13 atolls, including Addu atoll.

In addition, Maldives have recently been subject to earthquake generated tsunami reaching heights

of 4.0m on land (UNEP, 2005). Historical wave data from Indian Ocean countries show that tsunamis

have occurred in more than 1 occasion, most notable been the 1883 tsunami resulting from the

volcanic explosion of Karakatoa(Choi et al., 2003).

5.3.2.2 Tides

Tides experienced in Maldives are mixed and semi-diurnal/diurnal. Typical spring and neap tidal

ranges are approximately 1.0m and 0.3m, respectively (MEC, 2004). Maximum spring tidal range in

the central and southern atolls is approximately 1.1m. There is also a 0.2m seasonal fluctuation in

regional mean sea level, with an increase of about 0.1m during February to April and a decrease of



0.1m during September to November. Like in most other atolls, semidiurnal tides are experienced in

Male’ Atoll - that is two high tides and two low tides a day. The tide varies from place to place,

depending on the location and on the shape and depth of the basin, channels and reefs and also

time of the year. Tidal variations in Maldives are presented in Table 5.2.

Table 5-2Tidal Variations at Male’ International Airport (source: MEC 2004)

Tide Level Referred to Mean Sea level

Highest Astronomical Tide (HAT) +0.64

Mean Higher High Water (MHHW) +0.34

Mean Lower High Water (MLHW) +0.14

Mean Sea Level (MSL) 0.00

Mean Higher Low Water (MHLW) -0.16

Mean Lower Low Water (MHLW) -0.36

Lowest Astronomical Tide (LAT) -0.56

Astronomical tides are related to the motion of the earth-moon-sun system, and have a range of

periodicities. The highest astronomical tide was recorded as 0.64 m above the mean sea level and

the lowest astronomical tide was recorded as 0.56 m below the mean sea level. Tidal variation of

1.2m from lowest to the highest tide levels were recorded in the country.

5.3.2.3 Currents

Currents that affect the reef system of the proposed site can be caused by tidal currents, wind-

induced currents and wave-induced currents. It is presumed that generally current flow through the

country is defined by the two-monsoon season winds. Westward flowing currents are dominant

from January to March with the change in current flow pattern taking place in April and December.

In April the westward currents become weak while the eastward currents start to take over. In

December the eastward currents are weak with the westward currents becoming more prominent.

Hence, currents within the site are very likely to be heavily influenced by the monsoons.

5.3.3 Groundwater Quality

Groundwater quality at the impact area was assessed by taking samples near the desalination plant

house. Results of the water quality assessment are presented in Table 5.1 (water quality report is

given in Appendix 7).



Table 5-1 Results of Groundwater quality assessment

As indicated in the Table 5.1 above, although the groundwater quality assessment reflects a positive

result while it indicates presence of nitrate and phosphate but of negligible quantity. As for the

conductivity measured, it is found to be greater than the set values, most probably due to salt water

intrusion into the thin ground water aquifer.

5.3.4 Marine Water Quality

The marine water quality at the outfalls and intake area was assessed by taking samples from these

locations. Table 5.2 below gives the results of the tests (see Appendix 7 for water quality report).

The results show that water quality in the area is generally good.

Table 5-2 Result of the marine water quality assessment

Parameter Tested Salt Water Intake Brine Discharge Outfall

pH 8.20 8.17 Conductivity (µs cm-1) 51100 56100 TDS (mg l-1) N/A N/A BOD (mg l-1) 2.95 3.19 DO (mg l-1) 8.37 8.30 Nitrate N/A N/A Phosphate N/A N/A

As indicated in the Table5.2 above, the marine water quality assessment predicts considerable

values within the acceptable standards.

5.3.5 Desalinated Water Quality

Samples were taken from the desalinated water storage tank and from a tap in kitchen (Water tap 1)

and one from the tap in admin office (Water tap 2). Table 5.3 shows the results of the analysis done

on the water samples (see Appendix 7 for report).

Parameter tested Near the Desalination Plant House WHO drinking Water standard

pH N/A 6.5 – 8.5

TDS (mg l-1) 4810 < 1000 mg/l

Conductivity (µs cm-1) 9630 < 1500 mg/l

BOD (mg l-1) 11.40 -

DO(mg l-1) 7.55 > 5 mg/l

Nitrate (mg l-1) 0.3 < 50 mg/l Phosphate (mg l-1) 0.14 -



Table 5-3 Result of water analysis from desalination plants

Parameter Tested Desalinated Water WHO drinking water standard Water Storage

Tank Water Tap

1 Water Tape 2

pH 6.76 6.78 6.78 6.5 – 8.5 TDS (mg l-1) N/A N/A N/A < 1000 mg/l Conductivity (µs cm-1) 526 526 525 < 1500 mg/l BOD (mg l-1) N/A N/A N/A - DO(mg l-1) N/A N/A N/A > 5 mg/l Nitrate (mg l-1) N/A N/A N/A < 50 mg/l Phosphate (mg l-1) N/A N/A N/A - Total Coliform Count(100 ml) 24 334 TNTC 0/100 ml

Total Fecal Coliform Count ( 100ml)

6 1 12

As per the desalinated water quality analysis as indicated in Table 5.3 done at two variable spots,

water storage tank and at the water tap, it results in the Total Coliform and Fecal Coliform Count

greater than the set standards under the WHO guidelines. To identify the definite source of this

cause, detailed investigation need to be carried out.

Note: TNTC – Too Numerous To Count

5.4 Biological Environment

5.4.1 Terrestrial Environment

The vegetation types and frequency of their occurrence around the desalination plant house and

related infrastructure were assessed through observation. The project area was mainly dominated

by Kaani (Cordia subcordata), Dhiggaa (Hibiscus tiliaceus). Figure 5.2 shows the vegetation found in

the project location.

Table 5.4 below provides a list of the types of vegetation and the frequency of their occurrence

found around the powerhouse and desalination plant building.

Table 5.4 Results of the vegetation assessments

Local Name Common Name Scientific Name Family Name Occurrence

Kaani/Kauni Sea trumpet Cordia subcordata Ehretiaceae Abundant

Dhiggaa Sea/beach hibiscus Hibiscus tiliaceus Malvaceae Frequent

Dhivehi Ruh Coconut Palm Cocos nucifera Arecaceae/Palmae Occasional

Condition of vegetation in the area of desalination plant house and related infrastructure appears to

be normal.



5.4.2 Marine Environment

Lagoon benthos and patch reefs within the lagoon were surveyed using visual observations during

snorkelling to establish the general characteristics of the lagoon system.

5.4.2.1 Methodology

Snorkeling scientific visual survey method was employed to assess the benthic cover along the pipes.

5.4.2.2 Benthic Composition

Both the water intake pipe and outfall pipes are located on the South Western (SW) side of the

island. The outfall pipe extends to approximately 0.1 m from the shore while the intake pipe reaches

the reef slope at approximately 145 m from the shore.

The water intake pipeline is 4 inches in width and made up of PVC. This pipeline is firmly anchored to

the bottom with concrete blocks. The intake end is covered with a copper foot valve to prevent

entry of marine organisms or other materials that may block that pipe. Benthic cover along the

pipeline is dominantly made up of sand and rubble. Live corals observed along this pipeline were

very few.

Figure 5-6 Benthic composition along the water intake pipeline

The brine discharge pipeline is also 4 inches wide, and made of PVC. As mentioned earlier brine

discharge pipeline is approximately 0.1 m from the shoreline and is not laid on the lagoon bottom.

Brine is discharged directly into the harbor of the island. This area is void of any coral life, and mainly

made up sand.



Figure 5-7 Benthic composition near the brine outfall

5.5 Human Environment

5.5.1 Noise

Noise levels around the powerhouse building at a radius of 05 meters, 10 meters and 15 meters

were recorded using a handheld sound level meter of 0.1 dBA resolution. Figure 5.8 shows the noise

measurements on aerial map of Kaafu Funadhoo Island.

Figure 5-8 Average noise measurement populated on an aerial map of Kaafu Funadhoo Island

Noise level near the desalination plant house area within a radius of 5 m is around 69.7 dBA. Noise

level reduces to 54.1 dBA at 15 m radius from desalination plant house area. Average noise level

inside the desalination plant during operation was recorded as 90.6 dBA.

5.5.2 Air Quality

Air quality of the Maldives is generally considered to be good and in pristine state. As the islands of

the Maldives are small, sea breezes flush the air masses over the islands and refresh air over the

islands. Sources of local air pollution are insignificant in Maldives. Predictions of future air quality



conditions could be made for Kaafu Funadhoo Island based on experiences of other smaller such

islands, which again are maintained below insignificant levels.

6 Impacts and Suggested Mitigation Measures

This chapter identified potential and observed impacts associated with the operation of the

desalination system.

6.1.1 Groundwater Contamination

No groundwater is utilized in the desalination process during operation of the plant. Therefore there

is no direct adverse impact of desalination on groundwater. Desalination in fact contributes to

preserving of groundwater by acting as the main source of water supply in the island. However, the

seawater intake pipes and brine discharge pipes are buried under the ground and have the potential

to cause salinization of groundwater aquifer if there are any major leakages.

As desalination requires power supply for operation, the potential impacts from operation of the

power system can be considered indirect impacts of desalination. In this regard, fuel handling

activities are considered relevant. No signs of fuel spill on the ground were observed during the field

visit. The island currently has significant measures in place to avoid fuel spills during fuel handling.

These measures include, having bund walls around the fuel storage tanks and having proper

pipelines installed to transfer fuel from the tanker to the storage tanks and subsequently to the fuel

day tanks and then to engines. Any container holding any type of fuel including lubricating oil, waste

oil etc are kept and handled on concrete surface.

The area is well maintained and kept clean. Therefore soil and groundwater are protected from

mishandling and spill of fuel.

6.1.2 Pollution due to Waste

Operation of the desalination units results in waste. The critical waste arising from desalination

process are expired chemicals, empty chemical containers and membrane. All waste generated from

desalination is stored separately and transferred to Thilafushi on a regular basis. If handled

improperly the waste has the potential to contaminate groundwater resources and also pose risks to

occupational health and safety.

There is no observable impact from waste resulting from desalination.

6.1.3 Degradation of Air Quality

Desalination process in itself does not have a notable direct impact on air quality. Power

consumption for the operation of the desalination plant leading to air emissions is one of the most



adverse indirect impacts of desalination. Power generation has the potential to reduce air quality

and also contributes to increase in greenhouse gases in the atmosphere.

No analyzable data was recorded during the mission but observation of work practices in the power

generation process gives a positive deduction that considerable precautions and restrictions have

been made to decrease the emission level both in case of solid particulate matter and gaseous form.

The generator sets are properly tuned and maintained. In addition, In addition, a high emission stack

has been installed at the powerhouse reduces the emissions by accumulating particulate matters in

the smoke within the stack.

6.1.4 Impingement and Entrainment of Marine Organisms

The most significant environmental impacts associated with the operation of the intake for

desalination are impingement and entrainment. Impingement is the entrapment of larger organisms

against the screen mesh by the flow of the withdrawn water (Hogan, n.d.). Entrainment is the

passage of smaller organisms through the screening mesh and mortality due to entrainment is

considered 100% (Hogan, n.d.).

Impacts of entrainment and impingement and the significance of the impacts are discussed in

Resource and Guidance Manual for Environmental Impact Assessments - Desalination (UNEP, 2008).

Entrainment

The main impact identified is the effect on productivity of the coastal ecosystem due to entrainment

mortality. However, it is noted that the impact is difficult to quantify because firstly, native species

of planktons for example are likely to be rampant in the area and secondly, plankton species have

rapid reproductive cycles. Therefore, it seems unlikely that the operation of one desalination plant

will have a significant adverse impact on sustainability of the plankton organisms population (UNEP,

2008).

The second marine component that may be affected is the eggs and larvae of common invertebrate

species. It is improbable that successful reproduction of the organisms may be affected due to

entrainment of eggs and larvae ((UNEP, 2008). Eggs and larvae are produced in large numbers which

are subject to natural mortality leaving only a small percentage to reach maturity. Therefore it is

questionable whether entrainment is a significant additional cause of mortality affecting the ability

of a species to sustain its population.

Impacts due to entrainment may be substantial based on local conditions such as occurrence of

other sources of mortality like desalination plants, power plants that uses water for cooling. In

addition, presence of endangered species or species of commercial interest and whether the area is

a marine protected area are also factors to consider. The proposed location does not have additional

desalination plants and is not a marine protected area.

UNEP (2008) states that while it is relatively simple to quantify the levels of entrainment for a

specific project, it is very difficult and complex to estimate the actual ecosystem impacts, especially

when cumulative effects with other projects may occur.



Impingement

There are two possibilities for mortality of marine organisms due to impingement. Firstly,

suffocation, starvation, or exhaustion due to being pinned up against the in‐take screens may lead to

death of organisms. Secondly, from the physical force of jets of water used to clear screens of debris

after (UNEP, 2008).

While protection of marine organisms from impingement is important, intakes must also be cost-

effective to construct, operate and maintain in order to ensure potable water supply is affordable to

the community. Considering the need for reduction in cost, most emphasis is now placed on

minimising entrainment of early life stages of organisms which will also help eliminate impingement

of juvenile and adults (Hogan, n.d.). In this regard, intake pipe of Kaafu Funadhoo Island is

appropriately designed with a copper foot valve at the end.

6.1.5 Degradation of Marine Environment

RO plants generate concentrated brine solution as the effluent from the desalinating process. Brine

solution has the potential to kill marine organisms where it is discharged into the marine

environment. The brine discharged might contain all or some of the following constituents:

High salt concentration

Chemical used during pretreatment stage

High total alkalinity as a consequence of increasing the calcium carbonate

(change of pH), calcium sulfate and other elements in the seawater

Higher temperature of the discharge brine due to the high temperature is used in the

desalination facility.

Toxic metals, which might be produced if the discharge brine has contact with metallic

materials used in the plant facilities

Chemicals used for pre-treatment and periodical membrane and pipe cleaning may harm the marine

environment if they are discharged to the sea without treatment. It is also noted that temperature

of the brine from RO plants are near ambient temperature since RO plants do not heat feed water

unlike distillation plants. Therefore, impact to marine environment from RO reject temperature will

not be significant.

The de-chlorination process of the RO plants may marginally reduce the pH of the waste brine

compared to the feed water. However, the change in pH in brine and hence its effect on the

receiving environment will not be significant.

Similarly, heavy metal concentration of the brine generated from RO plants is relatively low. RO

facilities are less likely to release heavy metals as they are usually constructed largely of corrosion

resistance stainless steel. The RO process also adds treated and cleaning chemicals that can include

metals such as iron. However, Land and Marine Environmental Resources Group Pvt Ltd (2010)



reports that Iron and Manganese levels tested in reject water by MWSC for Male’ water supply

system shows that the levels are lower than WHO and EPA guidelines. Based on this observation, it is

considered that impact of heavy metal in brine on marine environment will be minor.

Further, given that the brine is discharged into the sea, it is anticipated that adequate flushing and

dilution of the effluents will bring the effluent to the background salinity of seawater quickly.

6.2 Impact Analysis

Impacts identified are characterized based on the following criteria in order to ascertain the most

significant impacts arising from the project.

Nature (direct, indirect, cumulative);

Magnitude (severe, moderate, low);

Duration (short term, long term, intermittent, continuous);

Reversibility/irreversibility;

Significance (significant, insignificant).

Table 6.1 shows the characterization of the impacts based on the criteria listed above.

Table 6-1 Characterization of impacts

Based on the analysis of impacts mitigation measures have been suggested where relevant in Table

6.2 for each of the impacts.

Table 6-2 Suggested mitigation measures and residual significance

Impact Nature Magnitude Duration Reversibility Significance

Groundwater

contamination

Direct;

Cumulative

Moderate Long term Irreversible High

Pollution due to Waste Direct; Cumulative

Low Short term Reversible Minor

Degradation of air quality

and contribution to global

warming due to power

consumption

Indirect;

Cumulative

Moderate Long term Irreversible Moderate

Impingement and

entrainment of marine

organisms

Direct; Low Intermittent Irreversible Significant

Degradation of marine

environment from brine

discharge

Direct;

Cumulative

Low Continuous Reversible Insignificant

Impact Rationale to Suggest Mitigation

Mitigation Measures Residual

Significance

Estimated

cost



6.3 Uncertainties in Impact Prediction

Environmental impact prediction or measurement involves a certain degree of uncertainty as the

natural and anthropogenic impacts can vary from place to place due to even slight differences in

ecological, geomorphological or social conditions in a particular place. Additionally, uncertainties in

impact prediction or measurement also arise due to the lack of long term data, and lack of standard

procedures to collect data leading to inconsistent methodologies used by the various consultants.

Accordingly, the uncertainties associated with measuring impacts for this particular audit are due to

limited amount and type of baseline data available for comparing the accumulated impacts

measured in the study. However, it is unlikely that the limitations would have significant impacts on

the outcomes of the findings.

Impact on

groundwater

and soil due to

handling of

fuel

Proper measures are in place to ensure groundwater and soil is protected from fuel related impacts.

Maintenance of fuel transfer pipelines, fuel storage tanks, bund walls and other related structures.

Supervision of fuel handling activities.

Insignificant Current costs

Waste related impacts

Waste is handled in a separate area, stored and transferred to Thilafushi on a regular basis. However records are not maintained on quantity of waste and verifications on transfer of waste.

Supervision of waste management practices.

Maintain records and verifications of disposal at Thilafushi.

Insignificant USD1000

Degradation

of air quality

and

contribution

to global

warming due

to power

consumption

Desalination is an energy-intense method of producing freshwater. Energy production in the island is from diesel fueled generators. Therefore it can be said that desalination is contributing to emission of greenhouse gases.

Improve generator maintenance.

Alter management practices to include options such as peak load management.

Explore less impact fuels such as biodiesel and alternative energy sources such as solar, wind etc.

Insignificant USD1000

Impingement

and

entrainment

of marine

organisms

Seawater intake is appropriately designed.

Regularly inspect structural integrity of intake pipeline.

Not

applicable

Refer to

monitoring

programme.

Impact on

marine

environment

from

discharge of

brine

Discharge of brine has the potential to cause harm to marine life due to high salinity, high temperature and presence of chemicals.

Monitor marine environment conditions for signs of impact.

Monitor current patterns to study effectiveness of dilution of brine.

Insignificant Refer to

monitoring

programme.



7 Environmental Performance and Compliance

This chapter provides the environmental performance and compliance of the desalination plant with

regulatory requirements. In addition, impacts from the operation of the facilities are predicted and

mitigation measures that are already in place are highlighted. Where there are significant adverse

impacts from the current operational practices further actions are recommended.

7.1 Performance and Compliance

7.1.1 Source Water Intake

Intake water for desalination is deep sea water in accordance with Desalination Regulation.

Seawater intake is a PVC pipeline located on the South West (SW) of the island beyond the house

reef. The pipeline is properly anchored to the lagoon bottom and buried under the beach in

accordance with Desalination Regulation. The pipeline is observed to be in good condition. There is

no observable adverse impact of the presence of the pipeline in the lagoon bottom.

There is one pump station for the intake of seawater. The pump is observed to be in good condition

and the noise level is minimal.

7.1.2 Sedimentation Tank

The sedimentation tank is observed to be in good condition and appropriately sized at 8.855 sq.

meters in accordance with Desalination Regulation. Sedimentation tank is made of concrete and

kept in a shady area to help maintain temperature of the water at an appropriate level in accordance

with Desalination Regulation. The water incoming from the intake line has some level of

sedimentation, however this is considered to have negligible impact on the filters and membranes as

the sediment is allowed to settle in the tank for a considerable period of time.

7.1.3 Environmental Aesthetics

Desalination plant house is located in the area dedicated to utilities of the island. Vegetation

encloses the area to an acceptable extent. The building is lower than the vegetation height of the

area. Generally, aesthetics of the desalination plant house is in accordance with Desalination

Regulation.

7.1.4 Capacity of Desalination System

There are one (01) reverse osmosis desalination plant. The plant has capacity of producing 50 m3 per

day. A total of fourty (40) workers at various levels are registered as employees at the site. Therefore

water production capacity exceeds the set standard of 250 liters/person/day in the Desalination

Regulation.



7.1.5 Brine Discharge

The brine discharge point is located on the western side of the island within the lagoon, and not

directly onto the reef. This is in accordance with Regulation on Desalination. Seawater tests from

near the brine outfall shows that conductivity is higher than normal. Marine assessments show that

the benthic cover near the brine discharge point is made up of sand and void of live corals. Regular

monitoring needs to be undertaken in order to assess whether brine discharge is affecting marine

water quality and any marine life in the proximity of the discharge point.

7.1.6 Desalination Plant House

Desalination plant house is sheltered and enclosed in accordance with Desalination Regulation to

ensure protection of the desalination units and minimize noise pollution. In addition, the building is

elevated from the ground as a precautionary measure against flooding in accordance with

Desalination Regulation.

7.1.7 Storage and Handling of Chemicals

Chemicals are kept inside the desalination plant house at location designated for chemical storing

and preparation. The area did not show any marks/signs of no hazard warning boards or posters.

However hazard warning marks were marked on the chemical storage drums. No preparatory

protocol/flow charts were indicated at the site wall. Regardless the building has a concrete floor to

prevent leakage to soil and groundwater aquifer in accordance with Desalination Regulation and an

appropriate drainage in compliance with Desalination Regulation.

7.1.8 Availability of and Access to Operation Manuals

Records of any change in the plant filters and periodic change of the lubricating oil are logged

regularly. As for onsite water quality assessments no logs were recorded. The facility does not have

a definite inventory of spare or stocks although via regular monitoring means all damaged or used

parts are replaced.

Operation manuals of desalination plants are available and easily accessible to staff working with the

system as required by Desalination Regulation.

7.1.9 Noise Levels

Average noise levels near the desalination plant house area within a radius of 5m are around 69.7

dBA. Based on the standards given Table 7.1 it can be said that the noise level near the desalination

plant room is at a level suitable for commercial area. It must be noted that the desalination plant

room is located adjacent to the powerhouse which is a possible cause for high noise near the

desalination plant room. In addition, given the small size of the island locating of staff buildings near

the utilities is unavoidable.

Table 7-1 Internationally used noise standards for different zones



Category of Area Limits in dB (A)

Day Time

(6 am – 9pm)

Night Times

(9 pm – 6am)

Industrial area 75 70

Commercial area 65 55

Mixed residential areas (with industry) 60 45

Residential area 55 45

Silence Zone 50 40

Further, American National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) recommended

exposure limit for work place noise level is 85 dBA as an 8-hr time weighted average (TWA). This

means that exposures at and above this level for longer than 8 hours are considered hazardous.

NIOSH also recommends that workers should not be exposed at any time to sound levels exceeding

115dBA, without the use of hearing protectors.

During plant operation, average noise levels inside the desalination plant house was recorded as

90.5 dBA which is above NIOSH exposure limit. Workers are not exposed to this level of noise

continuously and in accordance with Regulation on Desalination, workers are provided with hearing

protectors.

7.1.10 Water Quality Monitoring

Product water, groundwater and marine water need to be monitored regularly via a National

Laboratory to determine whether it is with compliance with the standards enforced by EPA.

7.1.11 Management and Maintenance

General management and maintenance practices were investigated for the desalination plant.

No spare parts list and stock is maintained or kept.

User manual of the plants are easily accessible.

A manual log of the daily operations is kept.

Desalination plant house is kept clean and tidy.

Safety equipment’s are available on-site.

7.2 Summary of Compliance

A summary of compliance of the desalination plant operation is provided in Table 7.2.

Table 7-2 Summary of compliance of the desalination plants



Component Compliance Remarks Recommendations

None Low Moderate

High Excellent

Source water intake

X In good condition. Keep a log of inspection and maintenance.

Sedimentation tank

X Appropriately sized and in good condition.

Clean regularly and keep log of cleaning and inspection activities.

Environmental aesthetics

X Building is located well-designated site location and building height is below vegetation height.

Capacity of desalination plant

X Minimum standards set by Desalination Regulation.

Brine discharge X In good condition. Keep a log of inspection and maintenance.

Desalination plant house

X Sheltered and elevated from ground. Kept clean and tidy. Drainage system installed.

Storage and handling of chemicals

X Has a designated area. Is kept organized.

Keep signs for handling and preparation protocols of chemicals visible

Availability and access to operation manuals

X Operation manuals available and accessible on-site.

Noise level X In compliance with international and national standards.

Workers are recommended to use the ear protection gears provided when entering the plant during operation hours

Water quality monitoring

X Product water quality is not tested

Regular periodic monitoring is required to ensure pollution/contamination free and portability.

Pump station X In good condition and minimal noise.

Keep a log of inspection and maintenance.

Groundwater protection

X Fuel handling measures meet regulatory requirements.

Waste X Waste related to Ensure waste



Component Compliance Remarks Recommendations

None Low Moderate

High Excellent

Management operation of desalination units are kept separately until transfer to Thilafushi. However, they are not treated as hazardous waste.

management staff has appropriate safety gear to handle the waste. Keep record of waste generated and waste transferred. Create a verification mechanism for waste transferred to ensure waste reaches designated disposal site.

Air emissions X Considering air emissions as an indirect impact of desalination due to consumption of power.

Need to be further investigated specifically for desalination.

Management and maintenance

X Spare parts log is not recorded although the site is equipped with all necessary spare parts in any case of need and building is kept clean and tidy.

An all-inclusive management and maintenance system needs to be developed.

Safety X Auto shut down of plant in case of emergency, fire safety measures are in place and first aid is available.



8 Environmental Management and Monitoring

8.1 Environmental Management

This section provides environmental management measures necessary to maintain existing

management measures and to mitigate potential adverse environmental impacts.

8.1.1 Desalination Plant and Associated Infrastructure

The types and likelihood of potential environmental and health risk issues posed by the island's

water system can be summarised in Table 8.1. Management plan for the identified potential risks

related to desalination plant are given in Table 8.2.

Table 8-1 Potential hazards and risks related to water system

Source Potential Effect/Hazard Likelihood /Risk R.O. Plant Marine impact by

concentrated natural salts in brine discharge

Very low due to appropriate positioning of outfall area away from coral reef.

Damaged mesh of intake pipe can

cause impingement and entrainment of marine organisms

Impact of marine species population and composition.

Low due to design and durability of intake pipeline.

Potable Water Quality

Health hazards below drinking water standard

Low due to RO source, but treatment & monitoring needed due to storage tanks & length of distribution lines (>1 km). In addition desalinated water produced is not used for drinking.

Leaks in water distribution network

Undetected leaks cause wasteful RO water production.

Moderate risk unless flow rates along pipeline circuits are checked regularly and pressure tests undertaken to locate suspected leaks.

Table 8-2 Environmental Management Plan for desalination plant and associated infrastructure

Potential Impacts Management Objectives Performance Targets Monitoring Indicators Marine impact near

brine outfall. Avoid corrosion of heat

exchanges by regular inspection and servicing.

No exceedence of EPA criteria for metals and hydrocarbons in outfall

Monitor metal and total petroleum hydrocarbon content of discharge.

Impingement and entrainment of marine organisms.

Prevent adverse impact on marine life.

Intake pipeline is kept intact at all times.

Monitor structural integrity of intake pipeline.

Incorrect treatment of potable water supply causes health risk.

Adequate treatment and testing of potable water supply on a priority basis.

Contaminants and pathogens below accepted Water Quality Standards.

Monitor faecal coliform and chlorine weekly.

Monitor metal levels every 3 months.

Wastage of RO Avoid water losses by Annual water loss via Monitor pipeline flow



water due to leakage in the reticulation circuits.

identifying and fixing leaks in reticulation circuits on a priority basis.

leaks less than 3% of the total annual output from RO plant.

rates and regularly conduct pressure tests (esp. if leak is suspected)

8.1.2 Management of Product Water Quality

Environmental management measures to ensure quality of product water is provided below.

Strategy: Monitor pathogen and contaminant levels regularly to ensure supply

meets accepted water quality standards. Operate plant in

accordance with manufacturer instructions and service agreements.

Responsibility: Technical support engineer

Monitoring/Reporting: Collect representative samples of potable water supplied to staff

facilities, submit samples for laboratory analysis, review results and

take corrective actions promptly as and when necessary. Individual

results for discrete samples taken from the water storage tank and

at least three different supply points on the distribution system are

to be filed, and a summary of the year's results provided in the

Annual Monitoring Report.

Table 8-3 Product water sampling locations

Sample Point Number

Potable Water Sample Point Type

Location of Sampling Point

1 RO treated water storage tank Water storage tank(s) 2 Staff distribution supply point Staff Unit No. ; bathroom basin faucet (tap) 3 Staff distribution supply point Staff kitchen; basin faucet (tap)

8.1.3 Fire Prevention and Control

Table 8.4 provides potential impacts, management objectives, performance targets and monitoring

indicators for fire prevention and control. It is beyond the scope of the audit to assess the full fire

prevention system of Kaafu Funadhoo Island.

Table 8-4 Environmental Management Plan for fire prevention and control

Potential Impacts Management Objectives Performance Targets Monitoring Indicators Burn injuries and

fatalities to staff. Loss or damage of

island infrastructure

Competent and regularly tested fire detection systems (both automatic and human).

Prompt recognition, reporting and removal of fire hazards.

Reliable fire detection systems.

No fire hazards or fires

Trained fire-

Number and type of reported fire hazards.

Number of fire drills. Servicing dates for

firefighting equipment.



Loss or damage of personal property.

Regular training and fire drills for fire-wardens and other staff

Fire information notices in all staff facilities.

Sufficient fire-fighting equipment near all fire-prone areas.

Regular inspection and testing of water pumps, foam units, hydrants, hoses, extinguishers & other fire-fighting equipment.

Evacuation procedures for dangerous areas in Emergency Response Plan.

wardens prepared for immediate response.

All fire-fighting equipment in good working order.

Adequate fire-fighting equipment near all fire prone areas.

Emergency Response Plan has evacuation & assembly procedures for dangerous areas.

Number and type of fires.

8.1.4 Fuel and Hazardous Chemicals

Table 7.5 shows the potential impacts, management objectives, performance targets and monitoring

indicators for fuel and hazardous chemicals. Fuel is included here as desalination requires power

consumption and impacts related to power generation is an indirect impact of desalination.

Hazardous chemicals referred to here are limited to chemicals used in desalination and related

infrastructure.

Table 8-5 Environmental management measures for fuel and hazardous chemicals

Potential Impacts Management Objectives Performance Targets Monitoring Indicators Marine pollution

from diesel fuel spills.

The Island has the right to refuse fuel deliveries from tankers not complying with national maritime and spill prevention regulations.

Diesel transfers to be closely supervised by tanker captain and Island Chief Engineer.

Island work staffs maintain visual surveillance during transfer operations.

Couplings and fuel lines are evacuated and regularly checked (eg pressure-tested).

No deliveries from tankers with inadequate fuel line evacuation and flow monitoring equipment.

No leaks from fuel line couplings or island fuel lines.

No marine oil spill incidents.

Number of marine spill incidents.

Number of leak incidents involving coupling or island fuel line.

Soil contamination and/or groundwater pollution from fuel,

All liquid chemicals stored in appropriate containers on

No liquid chemicals, fuel or oil stored on open ground.

Number of petrol or oil drums kept on open ground.



Potential Impacts Management Objectives Performance Targets Monitoring Indicators lubricant or chemical leaks and spills.

impermeable floored areas.

Fuel and oil drums are stored on sealed floors or spill trays.

Floor coverings or strong plastic ground sheets at all oily service and repair areas.

Regularly clean out oil traps in diesel tank bund.

Pressure-testing of below- ground diesel pipelines.

No lubricant servicing or repairs on open unprotected ground.

No build-up of oily leaf litter in diesel bund and oil traps.

No diesel fuel leaks from underground fuel lines.

No fuel or chemical leak or spill that threatens groundwater quality.

Number of sites with contaminated soils.

Number of bund and oil trap inspections and clean ups.

Annual diesel line pressure-testing results.

Number of land spill and leak incidents.

Explosion or fire from ignition or mixing of volatile or flammable chemicals during storage, use or disposal

Flammable chemicals protected from ignition sources by appropriate storage, equipment, warning signs, training & supervision

No fuel, gas or chemical fires or explosions.

All incompatible chemicals are stored and handled separately.

Number of chemical ignition accidents.

Number of hazardous chemical incidents reported by staff.

Injury and health risks from contact/exposure to hazardous chemicals.

Minimise risks by staff training, protective clothing and equipment, and using MSDS information.

No injuries or illnesses caused by contact or exposure to chemicals.

Number of chemical accidents requiring medical attention.

8.1.5 Waste Management

Table 7.6 shows the potential impacts, management objectives, performance targets and monitoring

indicators for waste management. As waste related to chemicals such as empty containers and

expired chemicals are transferred to Thilafushi, environmental management measures related to on-

site disposal of these chemicals are considered here.

Table 8-6 Environmental management measures related to waste management

Potential Impact

Management Objective

Performance Target

Monitoring Indicator

Safety risks from inappropriate handling, storage or treatment of hazardous waste.

Ensure safe waste handling, storage & disposal as per government health and tourism regulations.

Staff handling waste streams receive adequate safety and hygiene training, and use equipment and protective clothing suited to their

No injury from waste handling and management.

No accidents, spills or pollution incidents from hazardous waste storage and handling.

Cases of illness linked to waste handling (record and investigate).

Any injury or accident involving a hazardous waste (record and investigate).



Potential Impact

Management Objective

Performance Target

Monitoring Indicator

tasks. Marine pollution

from transfer of waste.

Waste is stored properly during transfer to ensure no spill occurs in the marine environment.

No spills in the marine environment from transfer of waste.

Maintain records and verification from Thilafushi on the types and quantities of waste transferred.

8.2 Monitoring Programme

This monitoring programme for the proposed project includes at least annual monitoring and covers

terrestrial environment as well as marine environment. The following table shows the frequency at

which the different parameters may be monitored.

Environmental monitoring would include regular monitoring according to the monitoring schedule

given in this report. This monitoring programme for the project includes annual monitoring of the

following environmental components:

Annual inspections of the condition of the seawater intake pipe, fuel storage facility, water

storage facility, and fuel handling system.

Waste oil handling and disposal system

Marine water quality around the brine discharge and seawater intake location.

Ecological aspects related to coral and lagoon benthos: Percent live coral cover and overall

health of the reef and lagoon benthos at the intake and outfall locations.

Groundwater quality at the impacted area – pH, Salinity, oil and grease

Noise level inside and around the powerhouse and the desalination plant

Inspection of vegetation around the powerhouse and desalination plant

It is important that information and experience gained through the monitoring activities are fed back

into the EIA evaluation and analysis system to improve the quality of future assessment studies.



Table 8-7 Proposed monitoring timetable monitoring

Type Frequency of monitoring

Main Concerns to address What to monitor

Marine ecology Annually Ensure that seawater intake and brine discharge does not affect water quality and the ecology of the marine environment.

Percent live coral cover and overall health of the reef and lagoon benthos at the intake and brine outfall locations. Seawater quality at intake and brine outfall according to EPA guidelines.

Product water Weekly six monthly and annually according to EPA guidelines.

Ensure acceptable quality of water is supplied for all staff//employees at site

Water quality parameters according to EPA guidelines.

Groundwater Annually Ensure that the fuel handling activities do not contaminate groundwater aquifer.

Evidence of grease or oil in groundwater at the location where groundwater quality has been tested for this study.

Soil Six monthly Ensure that the power house and desalination plant operation activities do not contaminate the soil and land, especially as a result of fuel and chemical storage, transportation handling and use.

Evidence of soil contamination in high risk locations such as outside the fuel storage area, near the power house building.

Air and noise Six monthly Changes in noise levels and air quality. Noise and air quality measurements in standard units, from the locations where noise level has been measured for this study.

Waste handling Six monthly Waste generated in the operation are properly handled and disposed of.

Procedure followed in handling and disposing waste generated from the operations. Quantify the volume of waste generated and disposed on daily basis.

Structural integrity Six monthly Ensure that the seawater intake and brine outfall pipes, fuel storage tanks, oil handling system pipes and pumps, are in good condition.

Check the pipelines and the tanks for any leaks or damages.



Table 8.8 shows the work plan for the annual monitoring of the both utility services in the Maldives.

Table 8-8 Proposed schedule for monitoring

Parameter

Months

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12

Vegetation

Soil

Ground Water

Air and Noise

Waste Handling

Marine Ecology

Marine water quality

Product water quality

Structural Integrity

8.3 Commitment

The Proponent is committed to undertake environmental management and monitoring according to the

environmental management plans and monitoring programme given here. In the event that monitoring

indicates that any environmental quality is deteriorating to unacceptable levels, the proponent will

correct operation procedures that are contributing to the problem and/or undertake necessary

engineering installations.

Appendix 8 provides Letter of Commitment.

8.4 Monitoring Report

A detailed environmental monitoring report is required to be compiled and submitted to the Ministry of

Housing and Environment annually based on the data collected for the monitoring the parameters

included in the monitoring plan. This report may be submitted to the relevant Government agencies in

order to demonstrate compliance.

The report will include details of the site, strategy of data collection and analysis, quality control

measures, sampling frequency and monitoring analysis and details of methodologies and protocols

followed.

8.5 Cost of Monitoring



The proponent has fully committed to perform a highest level of commitment for proper management

of the project. Environmental aspects of the monitoring work will be subcontracted to competent local

consultants. The costs of annual monitoring for the first year are given in Table 8.9.

Table 8-9 Estimated cost breakdown for monitoring the work

No Details Unit Cost (USD) Total cost (USD)

1 Two visits annually by two consultants for two days

1600.00 3200.00

2 Laboratory tests 1000.00 1000.00

3 Annual report preparation 2500.00 2500.00

4 Equipment charges 600.00 1200.00

Total 7900.00



9 Conclusions and Recommendations

The audit shows that overall operation of the desalination system in Kaafu Funadhoo is of acceptable

environmental standards. The desalination system is in compliance with the Desalination Regulation of

Maldives. Desalination units and associated infrastructure are in working condition. There are adequate

management practices in place. Safety measures particularly noise, emergency procedures and fire

prevention and control are satisfactory.

Following the audit recommendations are as given below:

Comprehensive log keeping of inspections and maintenance should be strengthened to ensure

problems are preventable and addressed promptly.

Water quality monitoring should be improved to meet requirements of EPA.

Storage of chemicals should be reexamined to ensure that they are stored at proper

temperature and labeled for occupational health and safety purposes.

Transfer of waste to designated disposal site should be verified for accountability purposes.

Environmental management and monitoring plan should be established to improve compliance,

ensure efficient operation and prevent significant adverse environmental impacts.



10 References

Choi, B. H., Pelinovsky, E., Kim, K. O. & Lee, J. S., 2003. 'Simulation of the Trans-Oceanic Tsunami

Propagation Due to the 1883 Krakatau Volcanic Eruption'. Natural Hazards and Earth System Sciences, 3,

321-332.

Goda, Y., 1988. Causes of High Waves at Male' in April 1987. Department of Public Works and Labour,

Male, Maldives.

MHAHE, 2001. Maldives State of the Environment 2001, Ministry of Home Affairs, Housing and

Environment, Male'.

Naseer, A., 2003. 'The Integrated Growth Response of Coral Reefs to Environmental Forcing: Morphometric Analysis of Coral Reefs of the Maldives.' Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia.

UNEP, 2005. Maldives: Post-Tsunami Environmental Assessment. United Nations Environment

Programme.

United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), 2005. Disaster Risk Profile for Maldives., UNDP and

Government of Maldives, Male'.

HOGAN, T. n.d. Environmental Impacts of Desalination Intakes. Alden Research Laboratory, Inc.

UNEP 2008. Resource and Guidance Manual for Environmental Impact Assessments -

Desalination. United Nations Environment Programme, Regional Office for West Asia, Manama,

and World Health Organization, Regional Office for the Eastern Mediterranean, Cairo.


Page | i

Appendix 1 – Terms of Reference


Page | ii

Appendix 2 – CVs of Consultants


Page | iii

Appendix 3 Survey Locations


Page | iv

Appendix 4 Site Plan


Page | i

Appendix 5 Process Flow Diagram


Page | i

Appendix 6 Emergency Safety Fire Plan


Page | ii

Appendix 7 Water Quality Report


Page | iii

Appendix 8 Commitment Letter by Project

Proponent

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