SEED PROJECT which includes Livingstone and Mosi-oa-Tunya NP

Environmental and social assessment - final report, Volume1 of 2



Author:
HABICO Planning and Architecture Ltd.; Global Development Solutions LLC;
Country:
Zambia;

Credit No:
Q300; Q341
Document Date:
2003/06/30

Document Type:
Environmental Assessment
Language:
English

Major Sector:
Energy and mining; Industry and trade
Rel. Proj ID:
ZM-Support For Economic Expansion And Diversification (Seed) -- P071407;

Region:
Africa
Report Number:
E841

Sector:
Mining and other extractive; Agro-industry; Other industry
SubTopics:
Environmental Economics & Policies; Crops & Crop Management Systems; Agricultural Research; Health Monitoring & Evaluation; Tourism and Ecotourism

Topics:
Health, Nutrition and Population
TF No/Name:
TF026797-PHRD-ZAMBIA: SUPPORT TO ECONOMIC EXPANSION AND DIVERSIFICATION (SEED) T

Volume No:
1 of 2




Abstract: This environmental assessment (EA) aims at developing a systematic process for assessing potential environmental, and social impacts due to the implementation of the Support to Economic Expansion and Diversification (SEED) Project, and, at ensuring full compliance with Zambia's environmental legislation, and the Bank's operational directives. While by and large, the project will generate positive impacts, this EA has identified potential adversity, proposing the following mitigation measures. The creation of an integrated, and coordinated institutional framework is critical to ensure in project areas that stakeholders' interests be considered in the planning, implementation, and management of the project, which includes as well appropriate institutional arrangements, and resources allocation. Social issues address the need for capacity building and training assistance, to sensitize communities, and promote new employment opportunities, through the private sector participation. Public consultation should further ensure the due process, and opportunities for stakeholders to express their views. An environmental screening, and assessment procedures are recommended, to address each project component, i.e., tourism, agribusiness, gemstone processing, and small and medium scale enterprise development. To prevent soil erosion, adversity on natural habitats, wildlife, and on cultural and traditional sites, it is suggested that a) technical specifications, and environmental guidelines be specified for contractors to comply with; b) firebreaks along corridors, or in critical habitats be minimized as possible; and, c) an archaeological survey be conducted prior to construction works, and heritage sites be avoided, or, as needed, the Archaeological authorities be notified. To prevent deforestation, tree harvesting permits should be strictly enforced. Yet, the traditional means of obtaining honey is an issue, and it is suggested to promote the use of hives built from boards. Solid waste disposal requires the provision of facilities, to be monitored regularly, discouraging inappropriate disposal or burning. Several other measures further address issues concerning noise abatement, cattle grazing, wildlife disruption, access to water, and rivers, loss of riparian vegetation, vegetative propagation, in addition to impacts on groundwater, soil, and irrigation systems, among others. The second volume specifically addresses pest management practices.