ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT for the Establishment of Waste Transfer Station in Hulhumale’ Island, Kaafu Atoll, Maldives

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ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT For the Establishment of Waste Transfer Station in Hulhumale’ Island, Kaafu Atoll, Maldives

Proposed by: Ministry of Environment Prepared by: Ahmed Jameel (EIA P07/07)

July 2020 BLANK PAGE

2 1 Table of contents 1 Table of contents ...... 3 2 List of Figures and Tables ...... 8 3 Declaration of the consultants ...... 10 4 Proponents declaration and commitment...... 11 5 Non-Technical Summary...... 15 6 Introduction ...... 17 6.1 Structure of the EIA ...... 17 6.2 EIA Implementation...... 17 6.3 Rational for the formulation of alternatives ...... 18 6.4 Terms of Reference...... 18 7 Policy, Legal and Administrative Framework...... 19 7.1 Applicable National Laws, Rules and Regulations...... 19 7.1.1 Environmental Protection and Preservation Act...... 19 7.1.2 Protected Areas and Sensitive Areas...... 19 7.1.3 Environmental Impact Assessment Regulation 2012...... 20 7.1.3.1 First Addendum to EIA Regulation 2012 ...... 20 7.1.3.2 Second Addendum to EIA Regulation 2012...... 20 7.1.3.3 Third Addendum to EIA Regulation 2012...... 20 7.1.3.4 Fourth Addendum to EIA Regulation 2012...... 21 7.1.3.5 Fifth Addendum to EIA Regulation 2012...... 21 7.2 Waste management policy ...... 21 7.3 Waste Management Regulation (No. 2013/R-58)...... 22 7.4 Environmental Damage Liabilities Regulation, 2011 ...... 22 7.5 Decentralization Act...... 23 7.6 Regulation for cutting down, uprooting, digging out and export of trees ...... 23 7.7 Other Relevant Legislation...... 23 7.8 Environmental Assessment Requirements...... 24 7.8.13 Post EIA Monitoring, Auditing and Evaluation...... 24 7.9 National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan ...... 25 7.10 Responsible Institutions...... 25 7.10.1 Ministry of Environment...... 25 7.10.2 Environmental Protection Agency ...... 25 7.10.3 Ministry of National Planning, Housing, and Infrastructure...... 25 7.11 Applicable International Environmental Agreements...... 25 8 Project Description ...... 27 8.1 Project Proponent...... 27

3 8.2 Location and Study Area...... 27 8.3 Need and Justification for the project ...... 27 8.4 Project Components ...... 31 8.4.1 General layout ...... 31 8.4.2 Site infrastructure ...... 32 8.4.3 Waste reception/guard house...... 32 8.4.4 Administrative building...... 33 8.4.5 Waste transfer area ...... 34 8.4.6 Maintenance workshop...... 35 8.4.7 Weigh bridge ...... 35 8.4.8 Roads, carriageways, sidewalks and parking lots...... 35 8.4.9 Rainwater drainage system...... 36 8.4.10 Utilities...... 36 8.4.11 Landscaping ...... 36 8.4.12 Signs...... 36 8.5 Waste Collection Services – Operation Phase ...... 37 8.6 Project duration ...... 37 8.7 Project Inputs and Outputs ...... 38 8.7.1 Project Inputs – Construction phase ...... 38 8.7.2 Project Outputs- construction phase...... 38 8.7.3 Project Inputs – Operational Phase...... 39 8.7.4 Project Outputs – Operational Phase...... 39 9 Methodology...... 40 9.1 General Methodologies of data collection...... 40 9.2 Terrestrial survey ...... 40 9.3 Ground water assessment...... 40 9.4 Socio-economic data ...... 40 10 Existing Environment...... 41 10.1 Existing general environment of Maldives ...... 41 10.2 General Climate Settings ...... 41 10.2.1 Temperature ...... 41 10.2.2 Rainfall...... 42 10.2.2.1 Maximum rainfall and return period...... 43 10.2.3 Wind...... 44 10.2.3.1 Wind Speed and Direction...... 44 10.2.4 Hazards and Disasters ...... 44 10.2.4.1 Vulnerability to Natural Disasters ...... 44

4 10.3 Ground water Aquifer in Hulhumale’...... 45 10.3.1 Ground water Quality...... 46 10.4 Noise...... 47 10.5 Traffic ...... 49 10.6 Condition of Vegetation on the Project Site ...... 52 10.7 Features of the waste stream...... 53 10.7.1 Amount of waste generated...... 53 10.7.2 Waste Collection ...... 53 10.7.3 Possible Future Trends...... 54 10.8 Socio-Economic Environment...... 54 10.8.1. Overview of Kaafu atoll...... 54 10.8.13 Population ...... 55 10.8.14 Hulhumale Island ...... 55 10.8.14.1 Transportation Services...... 55 10.8.14.2 Utilities ...... 56 10.9 Transport Mechanism ...... 56 11 Environmental Impacts...... 57 11.1 Method of Assessment...... 57 11.2 Environmental Impacts Related to Location...... 57 11.2.1 Surrounding seawater and marine ecosystems...... 57 11.2.2 Vegetation ...... 57 11.2.3 Surrounding land use...... 57 11.2.4 Impedance of traffic...... 57 11.2.5 Loss of land and effects on property ...... 58 11.3 Environmental Impacts Related to Construction ...... 58 11.3.1 Construction method ...... 58 11.3.2 Impedance of traffic ...... 58 11.3.3 Noise pollution and vibration...... 58 11.3.4 Waste Generation...... 58 11.3.5 Handling of Waste during the Construction Period ...... 59 11.3.6 Release of silt ...... 59 11.3.7 Water pollution...... 59 11.3.8 Air and dust pollution...... 59 11.3.9 Community health and safety risks ...... 59 11.3.10 Occupational Health and Safety...... 60 11.4 Environmental Impacts Related to Operation...... 61 11.4.1 Use of containers...... 61

5 11.4.2 Retention of waste awaiting transfer to the RWMF...... 61 11.4.3 Pests ...... 61 11.4.4 Effects on traffic...... 61 11.4.5 Occupational Health and Safety...... 61 11.5 Global, Transboundary and Cumulative Impacts ...... 62 11.6 Impacts and Mitigation ...... 62 12 Stakeholder Consultations ...... 67 12.1 Environment Protection Agency- EPA...... 67 12.2 Consultation with Ministry of Environment (ME) ...... 67 12.3 Male’ City Council ...... 67 12.4 Greater Male’ Industrial Zone Limited (GMIZL)...... 68 12.5 Waste Management Cooperation Limited ...... 68 12.6 Ministry of Transport and Civil Aviation ...... 68 12.7 Ministry of National Planning, Housing, and Infrastructure (MNPHI)...... 69 12.8 Housing Development Corporation (HDC) ...... 69 12.9 Adjacent plot owners ...... 69 12.9.1 MWSC ...... 69 12.9.2 STELCO...... 71 12.10 Consultation with the public ...... 71 13 Alternatives...... 73 13.1 No Project Option ...... 73 13.2 Alternative analysis matrix ...... 73 13.2.1 Alternative 1 (A1): Open System...... 73 13.2.2 Alternative 2 (A2): Civic Amenity...... 73 13.3 Alternative 3 (A3): Developing an Island Waste Management Centre (IWMC) ...... 74 13.4 Alternative Analysis Score ...... 74 13.5 Preferred Alternative...... 75 13.5.1 Mitigation measures for the Preferred Alternative...... 75 14 Environmental Management Plan ...... 76 14.1 Objective...... 76 14.2 Institutional Arrangement...... 76 15 Environmental Monitoring ...... 79 15.1 Introduction...... 79 15.2 Reporting ...... 81 16 Conclusion...... 82 17 References ...... 83 18 People who have assisted in the preperation of this report...... 85

6 19 Acknowledgements ...... 86 Annex 1: Terms of Reference...... 87 Annex 2: Scaled map of the transfer station design...... 88 Annex 3: Land Approvals Documents...... 89 Annex 4: Methodologies used ...... 90 Annex 5: Letters sent for stakeholder consultation...... 91 Annex 6: EIA Submission letter from Male’ Atoll Council ...... 92 Annex 7: Water Test Reports from MWSC...... 93

7 2 List of Figures and Tables Figure 1: Location of Hulhumale in Kaafu Atoll...... 27 Figure 2: Temporary waste transfer location at Hulhumalé...... 28 Figure 3: Existing Waste transfer area at Hulhumale’ ...... 28 Figure 4: concept layout design of the waste transfer station at Hulhumale’ ...... 31 Figure 5: Location of the proposed waste transfer station at Hulhumale...... 32 Figure 6: View of the waste transfer area from south east...... 35 Figure 7: Scheme for the surface water ditch ...... 36 Figure 8: Yearly Average of daily maximum and minimum temperature 2018. (Source: Statistical Yearbook of Maldives 2019)...... 41 Figure 9: Temperature data since 2000 in weather stations in Maldives (Source: Maldives Meteorological Service) ...... 42 Figure 10: Yearly average rainfall 2010-2019 (source: Maldives Meteorological Service)...... 42 Figure 11: Monthly rainfall distribution of 2019 in Hulhule region (Source: Maldives Meteorological Service)...... 43 Figure 12: Extreme rainfall distribution over a return period ...... 43 Figure 13: Design rainfall ...... 43 Figure 14: Yearly wind direction and speed by month, 2018 (source: Statistical Yearbook of Maldives 2019)...... 44 Figure 15: Cyclonic Wind Hazard Map (source: UNDP, 2006)...... 44 Figure 16: Groundwater lens thickness in relation to island width (Deng & Bailey, 2017). Redline represents island width of 900m...... 45 Figure 17: Soil profile taken on a site in Hulhumale Phase 1 (LaMer, 2020) ...... 46 Figure 18 Groundwater sample locations ...... 47 Figure 19: Noise level on the project site ...... 48 Figure 20: Noise level near the closest community building...... 49 Figure 21: Traffic routes near the project site...... 50 Figure 22: Traffic flow in the afternoon (13:00-14:00) at Midhili Magu on the project location side (A)...... 50 Figure 23: Traffic flow in the morning (09:00-10:00) at Midhili Magu on the project location side (A) ...... 51 Figure 24: Traffic flow in the afternoon (13:00-14:00) at Reethigas Magu on the project location side (B)...... 51 Figure 25: Traffic flow in the morning (09:00-10:00) at Reethigas Magu on the project location side (B)...... 52 Figure 26: Photos taken from the proposed site. Top left image shows the Ipil-ipil trees on the side of the plot. Bottom left shows a small Magoo plant in the middle of the plot; bottom right shows the roadside of the plot and other photos shows the dead grass and small shrubs inhabiting the project site...... 52 Figure 27: Picture of a civic amenity...... 74

8 Tables Table 1: Waste composition of MSW from households and hotels ...... 29 Table 2: Waste quantity projection to be processed at Hulhumale’ TS...... 30 Table 3: Minimum quantitative design requirements of the buildings...... 34 Table 4: Matrix of major inputs during construction period ...... 38 Table 5: Matrix of major outputs of construction period ...... 38 Table 6: Matrix of major inputs of operational period...... 39 Table 7 Matrix of major outputs of operational period...... 39 Table 8: Ground water quality at Hulhumale’ (CDE, 2019)...... 46 Table 9: Groundwater testing result from the MWSC site Hulhumale' (LaMer, 2020)...... 47 Table 10: Waste quantification and projection of Household and similar waste of the projected population (Source: ME, 2018)...... 53 Table 11: Planning parameters for TS Hulhumale’ (Source: ME, 2018)...... 54 Table 12: Population statistics for Kaafu Atoll (Census 2006 & 2014)...... 55 Table 13: Summary of impacts related to location ...... 58 Table 14: Summary of impacts related to construction ...... 61 Table 15: Summary of impacts related to operation of the improved facilities...... 62 Table 16: Environmental Management Plan...... 63 Table 17: List of people consulted...... 72 Table 18: Alternative analysis scores ...... 74 Table 19: Environmental Monitoring Plan ...... 80

9 3 Declaration of the consultants This EIA report has been prepared according to the EIA Regulations 2012, issued by the Ministry of Environment and all the amendments brought to the regulation including the amendment number 2016/R-66 gazette 11 August 2016. The EIA was carried out by a multidisciplinary consulting team representing Water Solutions Private Ltd. In preparing this report, no data has been manipulated. Primary data has been collected by field visits to the project site. I as the lead consultant certify that the statements in this Environmental Impact Assessment study are true, complete and correct. Name: Ahmed Jameel (EIA P07/2007)

Signature:

10 4 Proponents declaration and commitment

ާސާލ ުޚ ާދާސ

ުއޫރްޝަމ ުމުރުކުމިއާޤ ިށޮކިނުކ ިއަގޭލާމުޅުހ ުޅޮތައ .ކ ްށަކަމުތަގިއަޑަވިދެއ ެގ ްޓްނެމރަޔަވްނެއ ްފޮއ ީރްޓްސިނިމ ީކަޓޯޕިރިމ ާވިއަފިވެރުކުރާޔްއަތ ްނިއ ްނަޝުއިލޮސ ރަޓޯވ ްނުތޮގ ެގުމުލެބ ޯތްއެމަކެނާރުކްއެރަސައ ާހިކ ްށަޓްއެވާމިތ ްނުބަބަސެގ .ެވެކެޓރޯޕިރ

ީކަތަކްއަސަމިމ .ެވެންނުމަރުކ ްއެކަތްތަކްއަސަމ ީނަންނައ ިއަކަޓްށަމުދޯހ ްއެލްއަހ ްށައަލަސްއަމ ެގީނުކ ްނުރާކުރަސ ިހެވިދ ެލްއަހ ްށައަލަސްއަމ ެގީނުކ ްނުތޮގިމ .ެވެކަތަކްއަސަމ ޭވެދްނެގ ްށަޔިރުކ ްނެގީދްއެމަކްސިއ ުޑޮބ ްށަރަވ ްނުރާކުރަސ ެގީމ .ެވެއަފާށަފ ީނަވްއެނޭޕްނޭކ ީމުއަގ ިއަގުމަނ ެޖްއާރ ުފާސ ިއަލާވަލުކެއ ްއެއީސިލޮޕ ެގުރަވްނެފ ީމުއަގ ިއަކަޓްށަމުދޯހ ްޓްނަމޫރްޕްމިއ ްލަޓްނަމްނަރަޔަވްނެއ ެލާމ ރަޓޭރްގ ިއަކަޓްށަމުދޯހ ެލްއަހ ްށަޔަލަސްއަމ ެގީނުކ ެގުގަތްއަރ ެގޭޖްއާރ ުދެމ ްނިއެރެތ ުމިއާގ ިއަގޭލާމުޅުހ .ެވެއަފާށަފ ީނަވުރާހިމ ިއަގީހެއ ެގްކްނޭބ ްޓްނަމްޕޮލަވިޑ ްކިމާލްސިއ ެގްއެޖޮރްޕ ްޓްނަމްޖޭނޭމ ްޓްސޭވ ްޑްނެއ ެގުއޫރްޝަމ ިމ .ެވެކެތަކްއަސަމ ޭވެދްނެގ ްށަޔިރުކ ްނުށަދ ެގްޓްކެޖޮރްޕިމ ީކައ ްނަޝޭޓްސ ރަފްސްނާރްޓ ްޓްސޭވ ޭވެރުކ ުތަލާޙ ީހްއިސ ިއާޓްއެވާމިތ ެގުށަރ ިބިލްއެލްއަޙ ޭވެދެއ ްށައަލަސްއަމ ެގީނުކ ާވިއަފެވާމިދ ްށަންނުތިޔްއަރ ެގުށަރިމ ީކަދަސްޤަމ .ެވެމުރުކ ުޅަގނަރ

ކ.ހުޅުމާލޭގެ އާބާދީގެ ގޮތުގައި މިހާރު އަންދާޒާ ކުރެވެނީ 000،16 މީހުންގެ އާބާދީއެއް އޮންނަ ރަށެކެވެ. 2006 ވަނަ އަހަރު ބޯހިމެނުމަގައި ހުޅުމާލޭގެ އާބާދީގެ ގޮތުގައި ބެލެވިފައިވަނީ 2،866 މީހުންނެވެ. ހުޅުމާލެއަށް 8،000 މީހުން ޒިޔާރަތް ކުރާކަމަށް .ެވެއެވިއަފިވެލެބ

ިނުކ ްއަތިނުކ ޭދެފުއ ްނުނަތްނަތ ްސެވްނޫނެއ ިއާންނިއެގޭގ ީނެވެރުކުމިއާގ ްއެނަޝޭޓްސ ރަފްސްނާރްޓ ްޓްސޭވ ިއަގޭލާމޫޅުހ ްށޮކުދްނަބ ާޅައ ްށައަނިއެޓްނޮކ ާލުފުއ ިނުކ ްއަތިނުކ ްސެނެގ ްށަނަޝޭޓްސ ރަފްސްނާރްޓ ްޓްސޭވ ިއަގްލަކިހެވ ާލުފުއ ިކެއ ޭނެމިހ ިއަގޭރެތ ެގީނުކ ިއަގުނަޝޭޓްސ ރަފްސްނާރްޓ ްޓްސޭވ .ެވެށަމުއިދްނެގ ްށަޓްއުފަލިތ ިއަގީލުފުއ ްއަތަނިއެޓްނޮކިމ ްށަމުރުކުމިއާގ ްނަތިމ .ެވެއެނޭވެރުކުމިއާގ ިއެބ 10 ިއަކަޓްށަމުރުކ ިކަވ ްއަތިއަބ ިކެއ ިއަކަޓްށަމުޅެއ ްށަނިއެޓްނޮކ ްނިކަވ ްއަތިއަބ ކަނޑައެޅިފައިވަނީ ހުޅުމާލެއަށް ބުރިޖުން އަރައިންއަންނައިރު ކަނާތްފަރާތުން ދިމާވާ، މިހާރު ހުސްކޮށް އޮންނަ ްލަކިއަސީރ ިދައ .ެވެއެނޭވެރުކ ާޔިހ ުދްއަހަރަސ ާވިއަފިޓްއެހެބ ްއަތުރަނިއެޓްނޮކ ިއާޕްމޭރ ްށަމުޅެއ ިނުކ .ެވެއިއަގުދްއަހަރަސ ކުރެވޭނެ ތަކެތި ބެހެއްޓުމަށް ވަކިތަނެއް ހަމަޖެހިފައި ހުންނަން ވާނެއެވެ. މިތަނަނީ 10،000 އަކަ މީޓަރުގެ ބޮޑު ތަނެކެއެވެ.

ްށަމުރުކ ީގްއަރަތ ްނަތިމ .ެވެކެނަތެނާރުކ ީގްއަރަތ ްނުލޫސުއ ްޑްލިބ ްނިއަޒިޑ ީކަނަޝޭޓްސ ރަފްސްނާރްޓ ްޓްސޭވ ިއަގޭލާމޫޅުހ ހުށަހެޅިފައިވާ ކޮންސެޕްޓްގައި ހިމެނެނީ (ހ) ވޭސް ރިސެޕްސަން / ގާރޑް ހައުސް، (ށ) 3 ބުރީގެ އެޑްމިނިސްޓްރޭޓިވް އިމާރާތް، (ނ) 10 ބެއި ހިމެނޭ ކުނި ޓްރާންސްފަރ/ޓިޕިން ބެއިތައް، (ރ) ވާރކްސޮޕް، (ބ) ވެއިން ބްރިޖް (ގެނެވޭ ކުނީގެ ބަރުދަން ބެލުމަށް) އެވެ. މީގެ އިތުރުން މިތަނުގެ ތެރޭގައި މަގުތައް ހެދުމުގެ މަސައްކަތާއި، ވެހިކަލްތައް ޕާރކްކުރާނެ ސަރަހައްދެއް ގާއިމުކުރުމާއި، ސްޓޯމްވޯޓަރ ޑްރޭނޭޖް ގާއިމުކުރުމާއި، ލޭންޑްސްކޭޕިން ކުރުމާއި، މިތަންވަށާ ފާރު / ފެންސު .ެވެމުހެޖ

ުރަސައ ެނާރުކ ްށަޓްއެވާމިތ ްނުބަބަސ ެގޫރްޝަމ ިމ ްނުކަތާސާރިދ ުނުދެހ ިދައ ްނުކަތްއަތްނަކ ިލެބ ްށޮކްތަޔާޢިރ ްށަމަކްނަކިމ ްއެމުލްއެގ ޭވެރުކުނަދާއިއ ްށަޓްއެވާމިތ ްނުބަބަސ ެގ ްޓެޖޮރްޕ ިމ ުހަފްށަމުލ ެބ ްށަކަތ ާސާރިދ ުނުވެރުކ .ެވެއަފިވެނަގެނެދ ީނަވ ްއެހަގ ްސެވްއެއ ްށޮކްސުހ ުރާހިމ ީކަދްއަހަރަސ ާދްނެގ ްށައިރުކ ްޓްކެޖޮރްޕ ިމ ީކަބަބަސ .ެވެއެވެލެބުނ ްށަކަމަކ ެނާދިބިލ ެނޭވެނެގ ްއެކަތުލަދަބ ްށަޓްއެވ ެގުދްއަހަރަސިމ ީތަކްއަސަމ ެނޭވެރުކ ިއަގުނަތިމ ިއާއީތާވ ްށަކަދްއަހަރަސ ާވުނ ިއަފިދެހ .ެވެއީތާވުނ ްށަކްށަމަކ

13 ީނަވްނަކިމ .ެވެއެވެލެބ ްށަމަކެނާރުކ ްއެކަތާދިއަފ ްއަތެއ ްނުތޮގ ީޙްއިސ ިދައ ީއާމިތްޖިއ ެގުށަރ ްނުބަބަސ ެގ ުޢޫރްޝަމ ިމ ެރުވްށަމުލްއެގ ޭބިލ ްށަޓްއެވާމިތ ްނުބަބަސ ެގުއޫރްޝަމިމ ްނުމުލެބިލެބ ްށޮކާސާރިދ ިމ .ެވެއެނާވިއަފިވެރުކަގަހާފ ިއަގްޓރޯޕިރ .ެވެއެނެފ ްށަމަކްއެމަކުޅަގނަރ ެމްނެއ ިދައ ުމްނިހުމ ްށަރަވ ީކަމުއިދްނެގ ްށައިރުކ ުއޫރްޝަމިމ ްނުމަކްނެހެއ .ެވެއާދިއަފ ީނާރުކ

14 5 Non-Technical Summary This report discusses the findings of an environmental impact study undertaken by Water Solutions Pvt. Ltd in order to fulfil obligatory requirements of the National Environment Protection and Preservation Act, Law No. 4/93 for the proposed establishment of waste transfer facility in Hulhumale’ island, Kaafu Atoll, Maldives. The Government of Maldives is committed to improve the environmental conditions and strengthen the solid waste management system in the Maldives. Improving SWM in the Greater Malé region is a top priority of the government. As part of the National Waste Management Policy and the Saafu Raaje (the “Clean Maldives” campaign), Government of Maldives has taken an initiative to implement the “Greater Malé Environmental Improvement and Waste Management Project” for improving solid waste management (SWM) throughout the country and particularly in the project area with financial support from the Islamic Development Bank (hereinafter IDB) and other financial institutions. The waste management in the Maldives is a responsibility of each island which is taken on by the so-called island council. While in Malé, Vilimale, Hulhumale and some other islands this responsibility was delegated to WAMCO, waste on other islands is managed by the islands councils and not sent to Thilafushi for final disposal. Collection is carried out either by a door- to-door collection service or by a kerb side collection using conventional refuse collection vehicles (RCV) or small tipping trucks to access the narrow streets in Malé. Preliminary transfer sites have been established on all islands of the Greater Malé area which do not allow the separation of C&D waste and MSW. The proposed project aims to establish a solid waste transfer site in the island of Hulhumale in Kaafu Atoll. With the inauguration of new transfer stations in Malé and Vilimale and Hulhumale as well, the separation of C&D waste and MSW will commence by providing different tipping bays for these types of waste. C&D waste will be processed in a conventional C&D waste processing facility. The main purpose of the project at Hulhumale is to ensure safe and environmentally friendly solid waste transfer of Household waste, waste similar to Household waste and as a separate stream, Construction and demolition C&D waste from Hulhumale’ to the new rehabilitated Thilafushi waste acceptance area, in closed containers via special dedicated vessels. In the 2006 census Hulhumalé population was 2,866 with 1,620 males and 1,246 females. People are living in 412 households with an average household having seven members. Though the registered population is around 3,000 it is estimated that around 16,000 people will be living in Hulhumalé at present. Hulhumalé is a recreation and leisure island for a number of people living in Malé. It is estimated that 8,000 people visit Hulhumalé during weekend for leisure purposes. The proposed site for the establishment of the Hulhumale waste transfer station is located on the south side of Hulhumale at the entrance road from the Male’-Hulhumale connecting bridge to the Hulhumale. The site is an actually unused area of approx. 1ha. The access is made through the main access road from the south the Hulhumale phase 1. The concept design of the proposed Hulhumale’ waste transfer station includes buildings and related infrastructure for the transfer and management of waste at the site. The contractor selected for the project will design and build (a) waste reception/guard house, (b) 3 story building for administration, (c) a transfer/tipping desk with minimum 4 tipping bays mainly for household waste and for small/non-bulky C&D waste, (d) maintenance/Workshop (e) weighbridge to weigh incoming waste. Additionally, the contractor will establish roads, carriageways, sidewalks and parking lots, rainwater drainage system, landscaping at the waste

15 transfer station and fencing around the site to allow WAMCO an easy operation and maintenance of the site when waste transfer becomes operational. Environmental impacts of this project were assessed and have been identified as resulting from the construction works. The main impacts noted are that of noise and vibration, as well as landscape integrity due to the construction of a waste transfer site. Aside from these, the negative impacts are minimal because the ramp for the landing craft access has already constructed and waste carrying landing crafts will use the existing ramps that have been in use at the south western side of Hulhumale. Mitigation measures for the negative impacts have been identified and outlined in the report. Completing the construction work in the shortest time frame and with sound environmental practice and additional practices that reduce air and noise pollution are important measures that need to be taken into consideration. For the operational phase, asphalting the entire surface of the facility will eliminate the risk of groundwater leaching, while the use of waste containers will minimize the risk of pollution of the surrounding marine environment as well as in the facility. It is inevitable that there would be negative environmental impacts of this project. As a result, a mitigation and monitoring component has been suggested which takes into consideration, the most important elements that require monitoring, most importantly a mechanism and means to measure and value the social benefit of the project. This monitoring component will be adhered and will allow the assessment of long-term changes, despite the potential negative impacts.

16 6 Introduction This Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) report has been prepared to fulfil the requirements of the Environmental Protection and Preservation Act, law no. 4/93 in order to assess the impacts of the proposed establishment of waste transfer station in Hulhumale’ Island in Kaafu Atoll. Clause 5 of the Law 4/93 states that a report should be submitted before implementation of any protect that may have a potential impact on the environment. The aim of this project is to ensure that the project is sustainably undertaken to address and manage the environmental issues. This EIA report has been prepared based on the Terms of Reference (Appendix A) issued by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) on 19th November 2019. This report provides the background to the proposed waste transfer station as well as an assessment of their likely environmental and social impacts, both beneficial and adverse. The components of the project and mitigation measures are outlined where necessary together with an environmental management plan and a monitoring programme. This report demonstrates the commitment by the proponent on the environmental protection and preservation into the public sector development projects. 6 . 1 Structure of the EIA The report has been structured to meet the requirements of the EIA regulations 2012 issued by the Ministry of Environment and subsequent revisions. Hence, the report provide an executive summary at the beginning. The report will then have a project description in detail, existing environmental conditions, justifications given by the proponent for undertaking the proposed project components and alternatives. Alternatives to proposed components or activities in terms of location, construction methods and technologies, design and environmental considerations would be suggested. A mitigation plan and monitoring programme before, during and after the works will be outlined at the end. The major findings of this report are based on qualitative and quantitative assessments undertaken during site visits since October 2018 and through the use of available secondary data. The impact assessment methodology has been restricted to field data collected, consultations, experience and professional judgment. In addition, aerial photos have also been used to study the geography and environment where necessary. Below are the reports that have been referred.  EIA for the proposed sewerage treatment plant in Hulhmale’, (CDE Consulting, 2020)  EIA for the proposed Hulhule-Hulhumale connecting link road development project, North Male’ Atoll (Water Solutions, 2017)  EIA for Undertaking Sheet Piling at Hulhumale Phase 1 (Water Solutions 2017)  EIA for the design and project management of the construction of bridges, channels, harbours and shore protection works at Hulhumale’ phase 2 (Water Solution s2017)  EIA Proposed Mixed Residential Building in Plot No. D2-3, Hulhumale’ – Rainbow Oceanfront Residence (Rainbow Construction Pvt. Ltd, 2016)

6 . 2 EIA Implementation This EIA has been prepared by a local environmental consulting firm, Water Solutions. Water Solutions have been chosen by the Ministry as the environmental consultants for this project. The team members were:  Ahmed Jamee, M. Sc (Hazarad and Disaster Management), B.Eng (Environmental) (EIA P07/2007)  Abdul Aleem, M. Sc - Environmental Health, MPH (EIA P03/2019)  Ibrahim Faiz, M. Sc - Environmental Management (EIA P05/2017)

17 6 . 3 Rational for the formulation of alternatives Alternatives analysis provides other ways of implementing the project or various components of the project. Hence, in formulating the alternatives, various critical components of the project were considered such as treatment options, technologies, future expansion, environmental acceptability, cost and benefits to the community. These factors were used to assess the various alternatives for the project as outlined in detail in the relevant sections. 6 . 4 Terms of Reference Terms of Reference for this assessment has been included in the Appendix of this report.

18 7 Policy, Legal and Administrative Framework This section outlines the relevant environmental legislation pertaining to this project. The following sections outlines a matrix of major environmental laws, guidelines, codes and standards, both local and international indicating the relevance to this project. 7 . 1 Applicable National Laws, Rules and Regulations

7 . 1 . 1 Environmental Protection and Preservation Act The project conforms to the requirements of the Environmental Protection and Preservation Act of the Maldives, Law no. 4/93. The EIA has been undertaken in accordance with the EIA Regulation 2012 of the Maldives by registered consultants. Furthermore, it adheres to the principles underlined in the regulations, action plans, programmes and policies of Ministry of Environment, Ministry of National Planning, Housing and Infrastructure and relevant local councils. These are discussed in detail in the following sections and relevant amendments brought to the regulations from time are also considered in this chapter.  The Articles of the Environmental Protection and Preservation Act (Law No. 4/93) addresses the following aspects of environmental management:  Guidelines and advice on environmental protection shall be provided by the concerned government authorities.  Formulating policies, rules and regulations for protection and conservation of the environment in areas that do not already have a designated government authority already carrying out such functions shall be carried out by ME.  Identifying and registering protected areas and natural reserves and drawing up of rules and regulations for their protection and preservation.  An EIA shall be submitted to ME before implementing any developing project that may have a potential impact on the environment.  Projects that have any undesirable impact on the environment can be terminated without compensation.  Disposal of waste, oil, poisonous substances and other harmful substances within the territory of the Republic of Maldives is prohibited. Waste shall be disposed only in the areas designated for the purpose by the government.  Hazardous / Toxic or Nuclear Wastes shall not be disposed anywhere within the territory of the country. Permission should be obtained for any trans-boundary movement of such wastes through the territory of Maldives.  The Penalty for Breaking the Law and Damaging the Environment are specified.  The government of the Maldives reserves the right to claim compensation for all damages that are caused by activities that are detrimental to the environment. The proposed project will fully abide to the Environmental Preservation and Protection Act. Disposal of oil, chemicals and other hazardous materials will be strictly controlled and managed. Such materials will not be disposed in to the local or the regional environment but will be transported to designated waste disposal site. All mitigation measures will be implemented in the interest of the environment. 7 . 1 . 2 Protected Areas and Sensitive Areas Under Article 4 of the Environment Protection and Preservation Act, the Ministry of Environment is vested with the responsibility of identifying and registering protected areas and natural reserves and drawing up of rules and regulations for their protection and preservation. As part of the Environmental Regulation, EPA has established list of ‘sensitive sites’ in the Maldives. Although not formalized as a regulation, the sensitive list is mentioned in the recent Regulation on Dredging and Reclamation (Regulation number 2014/R-13, see Section 5.7, page34). The sensitive sites, according to EPA are sites in the Maldives (islands, reefs, mangroves, inter-tidal areas) where developments ought to be restricted, regulated or controlled.

19 Hulhumale’ is not a protected island and does not have sites at the island which is on EPA’s “Significant Area List”. 7 . 1 . 3 Environmental Impact Assessment Regulation 2012 The Ministry of Environment has issued EIA regulation on May 2012, which guides the process of undertaking the Environmental Impact Assessment in the Maldives – This guideline also provides a comprehensive outline of the EIA process, including the roles and responsibilities of the consultants and the proponents. This regulation outlines every step of the IEE/EIA process beginning from application to undertake an EIA, details on the contents, minimum requirements for consultants undertaking the EIA, format of the EIA/IEE report and many more. The guidance provided in this Regulation was followed in the preparation of this EIA report. The EIA has been prepared by registered EIA consultants at EPA. 7 . 1 . 3 . 1 F i r s t Addendum to EIA Regulation 2012 This amendment was gazetted on 9th April 2013. As per this amendment the responsible authority has to check the submitted EIA report for everything mentioned in the Regulation’s article (Kaafu) was in order and inform the proponent whether the EIA Report has been accepted or rejected within 2 working days. The penalty for repetitive offenses has been also amended in this amendment of the Regulation. 7 . 1 . 3 . 2 Second Addendum to EIA Regulation 2012 This amendment was gazetted on 30th August 2015. With this Addendum to the Environmental Impact Assessment Regulation 2012, the following important points were noted.  Procedural changes have been made to the EIA process. One of the most important changes was shifting the tourism related developmental project EIA’s to the Ministry of Tourism. Slight changes to the process like finalization of the Terms of Reference during the scoping meeting and changes in the fees structure for review process has been made to three different categories.

 Article 8 (a) of the amendment of the decision for screening form is as follows

o Environmental Management Plan o Initial Environmental Examination o Environmental Impact Assessment o Approval to go forward with the screened project o Approval to go forward with the project with as per the mitigation measures proposed by EPA.  The amendment’s article 9(b) says the decision for IEE will be as follows o Environmental Impact Assessment Report if the project anticipated to have major environmental impacts o Environmental Management Plan o Approval to go forward with the project if the project is not anticipated to occur major environmental impacts  Article 10 of this amendment says that two (2) reviewers are required to review the environmental management plan and the selection of the reviewers are to be carried out as per the article 13(b).

7 . 1 . 3 . 3 T h i r d Addendum to EIA R e g u lation 2012 Amendment 3 (issued on 11th August 2016) covers the point systems for consultants, categories of the consultants and amendment of the penalties to consultants and proponents who fail to follow the regulation. This EIA report was prepared by a Category A registered EIA consultant.

20 7 . 1 . 3 . 4 F o u r t h Addendum to EIA Regulation 2012 There was a 4th amendment done on the EIA regulation 2012 and gazetted on 19th January 2017. This amendment explains about the projects that can be preceded without an Environmental Impact Assessment when the proponent requests to the Ministry of Environment in writing along with commitments or guarantee that the Proponent will carry out the mitigation measures that may impact on the Environment due to such projects. A list of such projects given in the amendment is as follows. 1. Deepening of Existing harbors and channels as same as the footprint 2. Uprooting trees that fall into the existing plots given to citizens for residential purpose 3. Uprooting trees that fall into the roads/pathways to the above plots. (Only councils or who takes such responsibilities can apply). 4. Drilling boreholes to take water. 5. Reclamation carried out as land extension means to the natural existing land. Such lands that are less than 3 years after the reclamation is completed with exception of the projects mentioned article 1 (c) of this amendment. 6. Reclamation carried out in a lagoon with an island shape or characteristics. Such lands that are less than 5 years after the reclamation is completed with exception of the projects mentioned article 1 (c) of this amendment. Environmental Impact Assessment shall be carried out and permission shall be obtained in Lands that are mentioned in 5 and 6 as above, when such lands become inhabited. Environmental Impact Assessment shall be carried out in the following projects even in the lands that are reclaimed as per the number 5 and 6 explained above. 1. Projects that involve Dangerous Chemicals 2. Projects that involve in any Oil Storage 3. Projects that involve Incinerators 4. Projects that involves release of any poisonous elements to the atmosphere 5. Projects that involve fiber glass work. The amendment also says that this amendment will come into force from the date it is gazetted.

7 . 1 . 3 . 5 F i f t h Addendum to EIA Regulation 2012 This amendment was gazetted on 27th December 2018. With this Addendum to the Environmental Impact Assessment Regulation 2012, the following important points were noted:  It states the termination of article 4(b) of the Environmental Impact Assessment Regulation.

 Changes to the Article 13 (G):

o Clause (F): decision after reviewing EIA report means, environmental decision statement or requesting for additional information,  Addition of the following points to Annex (d)

o Development of tourist resorts o Development of tourist hotels 7 . 2 Waste management policy The National Solid Waste Management Policy was developed in 2008, by the Ministry of Environment, through consultations with the community and evaluation of existing waste management practices and scope for improved efficiency. The policy was then revised and adapted, and a new policy formulated and adopted in 2015. The policy is in line with government commitment to provide the resources required for waste management in all inhabited islands of the Maldives and is founded on the following 10 principles:

21 (i) Each person should be responsible for waste generated at the individual level and should comply with rules and regulations established locally; (ii) All household waste should be managed in accordance with the requirements of the local council; (iii) Each inhabited island should prepare and submit an island waste management plan for the island; (iv) Waste collection should be undertaken on a fee based system for all waste producers, including households and industries; (v) Agreements with government agencies in different inhabited islands to ensure management of waste in the islands; (vi) Establishment of a waste management system in each inhabited island that is appropriate for the needs of the population and quantity and type of waste generated; (vii) Establishment of regional waste management facilities (RWMF) in each waste management zone; (viii) Establishment of arrangements to transport all residual waste to a RWMF (ix) Promote adoption of waste management practices that generate revenue and to apply revenue to waste management at the island level; and (x) Undertake waste management training and awareness campaigns at the national level The establishment of the waste transfer station at Hulhumale’ is in line with the waste management policy implemented by the Ministry. 7 . 3 Waste Management Regulation (No. 2013/R - 5 8 ) The Waste Management Regulation of the Maldives was enacted under Article 3 of the EPPA in 2013 and is implemented by the Environmental Protection Agency. The regulation focuses on the following five areas: (i) Waste management standards: Defines standards for waste collection, transfer, treatment, storage, waste site management, landfills and managing hazardous waste; (ii) Waste management Permits: Defines approval procedures for waste management sites; (iii) Waster transfer: Defines standards and permits required for waste transport on land and sea, including trans-boundary movements; (iv) Reporting: Defines reporting and monitoring requirements and procedures; and (v) Enforcement: Defines procedures to implement the regulations and penalties for non- compliance. 7 . 4 Environmental Damage Liabilities Regulation, 2011 Under the Environmental Protection and Preservation Act (No. 4/93), the Ministry of Environment formulated the Environmental Damage Liabilities Regulation in February 2011, which encompasses the basis to avoid environmental deterioration, extinction of biological resources, environmental degradation and avoid wastage of natural resources. The main purpose of this regulation is to stop unlawful activities on environment and adequately implement a fining procedure for violations as well as implement a compensation mechanism on environmental damages. Its Schedules form the basis for levying fines on various environmental components and activities. Under the Article 14 of the regulation, any party, from whom the implementing agency requires information relating to an investigation or for other purposes of this regulation, should provide such information. This regulation describes the factors to consider when determining the fine to be charged on a party causing damage to the environment and formulas to measure the magnitude of the damages caused to the environment.

22 7 . 5 Decentralization Act The Decentralization Act establishes the local councils as highest authority in the locality and who shall have executive powers to be exercised in accordance with this Act. The Act establishes Atoll Councils, Island Councils and City Councils. Amendment 8 (issued on 15th December 2019) covers the procedure to follow for undertaking developmental projects within the island, atoll and city boundaries of Maldives. Clause number 68 of this law states that consultations must be undertaken with the corresponding council in the planning and implementation of developmental projects. If an EIA is required for such a project, the report must be shared with the island and atoll council prior to the approval of report from EPA. This project will be monitored and overlooked by the Male’ City Council. The project was formulated and finalized in consultation with the Male’ City Council. Copy of this EIA was sent to Male’ City Council and Male’ Atoll council and the receipt is attached as an annex for reference. 7 . 6 R e g u l a t i on for cutting down, uprooting, digging out and export of trees The Regulation on cutting down, uprooting, digging out and export of trees and palms from one island to another was issued by the Ministry of Environment. Clause 5 (a) of the regulations states that Prior to the commencement of any project(s) that would require the indiscriminate removal and export of trees/palms from one island to another for the purpose of agriculture, development/development, construction or any other purpose, it is mandatory under the Regulation to prepare an Environmental Impact Assessment Report stating clearly the details of the Project(s) with all necessary information and submit the same through the relevant Ministry to Ministry of Environment, and the project(s) can only commence upon the grant of written approval from the Ministry of Environment. Article 8 (a) requires permission be obtained from Ministry of Environment, if more than 10 coconut palms that are of a height of 15 ft (from base of the palm to the tip of the palm frond) are cut, uprooted or relocated to another island. The regulation also ensures the replacement of the vegetation that is lost by imposing the planting of two palms for every palm tree that is cut or uprooted (Article 2 (d)). Logging on inhabited islands must be done under supervision of the islands chief or an official appointed by the island chief (Article 8 (c)). The proposed project does not require removal of trees. Relocation of trees should be undertaken in accordance to this regulation. 7 . 7 Other Relevant Legislation Heritage Act (Law number; 12/2019). Items of cultural heritage significance are protected under of Maldives Cultural and Historical Properties act of 2019 and its implementation is currently under the Ministry of Arts, Culture and Heritage. The new Heritage law that mandates the documentation, preservation and protection of Maldivian cultural heritage. The purpose of the law is to safeguard the perpetuation of items and sites of historical significance to future generations. The Heritage Act specifies procedures and jurisdictions and criminalises acts resulting in the loss of items or sites of historical significance. No site has yet been inscribed under the UNESCO World Heritage List Health and Safety. Legislation covering occupational health and safety is currently included in the Employment Act (2008), Chapter 8 “Work Place Safety and Employer Health”. This requires employers to implement measures for the safety and protection of employees at the work place, including safe work place, procedures, safe equipment and materials, provision of protective equipment, safety training to employees, conducting health checks where work involves chemical or biological materials that may cause a hazard, providing medical care as well as first aid for employees injured while at work. The law also sets out employee’s obligations with regard to safety at work. A new regulation under this (156/2019) was issued which highlights the health and safety requirements of construction projects and constriction sites. According to this regulation a site supervisor needs to be hired (clause 8) and he will be responsible to ensure the health and safety of workers in the site. Also, this regulation states that the contractor is responsible for the health and safety of the general public

23 who access the construction site. Proper signs need to be placed around the construction site. It also states that personal protective equipment needs to be provided for all the workers. There is also a guideline to follow to operate heavy machineries such as cranes in the project site. Moreover, this regulation states the steps taken against contractors who does not follow the regulation. Contractor should make sure the workers and supervisors should adhere all these relevant clauses in the law and regulation during the implementation of this project at Hulhumale’. Land use and acquisition. The Land Act (2002) covers matters relating to land including land use, land ownership, and permissible uses of land belonging to island councils, which includes environmental protection. 7 . 8 Environmental Assessment Requirements Responsibilities and procedures for conducting environmental assessments, together with the requirements for environmental monitoring of projects, are set out in the EIA Regulations of 2012. All projects that may have an impact on the environment are referred to the Minister of Environment (EPPA 5(a)). The EIA Regulations assign primary responsibility for undertaking environmental assessment of projects to the project proponent and set out procedures, rights and responsibilities for the preparation and approval of EIAs. The Ministry of Environment (ME) undertakes review and approval of environmental assessment reports. Project proponents are defined in the EIA regulations as a person, department or agency that is seeking to carry out or proposes to carry out the development proposal and in this case is the ME, as implementing agency for the Project. EIA work must be carried out by registered consultants, and the procedures and requirements for registration are set out in Part V of the regulations. The EIA regulations include a schedule (Schedule D) of investment project types that require an EIA. These include landfills, waste incinerators and large-scale waste storage projects. For schedule D projects and those identified by the EPA as requiring an EIA, a scoping meeting is convened by the EPA to determine the specific Terms of Reference for the EIA. On completion of investigations and reporting, the EIA report is subject to review by EPA, which invites comments from other relevant ministries and the public following which an environmental decision is made. The waste transfer station in Hulhumale’ is a small-scale facility, it is not a storage or separation facility and the subproject comprises improvements to the existing facility. Since the development of waste management facility is included as Schedule D investment, the proposed waste management facility at Hulhumale is required to undertake an EIA. The Environmental Management Plan is prepared on a specified format and reviewed for compliance by EPA. The EPA issues the decision in the form of a decision note issued to the proponent, which sets out specific binding requirements for the conduct of the project on the basis of review of the EIA report. The timelines for clearance and approvals are as follows: (i) On submission of EIA Application to EPA – 5 working days to convene a scoping meeting. (ii) For review of a project brief and issue an approved Terms of Reference (TOR) – 3 days from scoping meeting (iii) For the review of a completed EIA report for completeness – 2 working days. (iv) For circulation of an EIA report to other ministries, stakeholders and to the public for comment – 10 working days (v) For issuance of a decision or to request revisions, following circulation of the EIA report and receipt of comments – 28 working days. 7 . 8 . 1 3 Post EIA Monitoring, Auditing and Evaluation The environmental monitoring programme given in EIA report is an important aspect of the EIA process. The monitoring programme outlines the objectives of the monitoring; the specific information to be collected; the data collection program, and managing the monitoring programme. Managing the monitoring programme requires assigning institutional responsibility, reporting requirements,

24 enforcement capability, and ensuring that adequate resources are provided in terms of funds, skilled staff, etc. The monitoring programme outlined in this report will comply with the EIA Regulations 2012 and ToR approved by the EPA for this project. 7 . 9 National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan The National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan 2016-2025 (NBSAP 2016-2025) seeks to ensure that threats to biodiversity are addressed, biodiversity is conserved, sustainably used and benefits arising from them are shared equitably. It also encompasses ways of addressing gaps, challenges and constraints highlighted in earlier sections. It is a living document that will have the capacity to adapt to changes in national conditions, capacities and to the changes in the international arena. In implementing the proposed project activities due care would be given to ensure that the national biodiversity strategies are adhered to.  The proponent has committed on conservation and protection of the environment while undertaking this proposed project. 7 . 1 0 Responsible Institutions The main government institutions that have roles and responsibilities relevant to this project are summarised below. 7 . 1 0 . 1 Ministry of Environment The Ministry of Environment is mandated for the effective implementation of the Environmental Protection Act of the country and has the statutory power over issues related to the environment. It has the central control over the environment protection, management, conservation and environmental emergencies. The Ministry operates mainly at a policy level and the more regulatory and technical assessment activities are mandated to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). In this respect EPA has now been mandated to manage all issues relating to Environmental Impact Assessment of individual projects. 7 . 1 0 . 2 Environmental Protection Agency The Environment Protection Agency (EPA) of the Ministry of Environment has responsibility for efficient operation of the EIA process. This encompasses a number of tasks, including screening of projects and provision of general procedural advice to the project proponents throughout the EIA process. The EPA manages the review of the EIA report and is responsible for any approvals or recommendations associated with the EIA. It is also responsible for verifying that environmental protection measures are properly implemented by undertaking environmental audits in collaboration with other government as well as non government agencies with a role for environmental protection and preservation. ‐ 7 . 1 0 . 3 Ministry of National Planning , H o u s i n g , a n d Infrastructure Ministry of National Planning, Housing and Infrastructure is the government ministry responsible for the development and regulation of the construction sector of the country. It is also the agency which oversees the development of public infrastructure of the country. However, waste management projects including the establishment of waste management centers and waste transfer stations does not fall under the responsibility of Ministry of National Planning, Housing, and Infrastructure. 7 . 1 1 Applicable International Environmental Agreements In addition to national laws, rules and regulations, the government of Maldives is also a signatory to various applicable international conventions, as follows: (i) UN Convention on the Law of the Sea – UNCLOS (1982).

25 (ii) International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution of the Sea by Oil (1982). (iii) Vienna Convention for the Protection of the Ozone Layer (1985). (iv) Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer (1987). (v) Basel Convention on the Control of Transboundary Movement of Hazardous Wastes and their Disposal (1989). (vi) The London Amendment to the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete Ozone Layer (1990). (vii) Convention on Biological Diversity (1992). (viii) United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (1992). (ix) The Copenhagen Amendment to the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer (1992). (x) The Montreal Amendment to the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer (1997). (xi) The Beijing Amendment to the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer (1999). (xii) Washington Declaration on Protection of the Marine Environment from Land-Based Activities. (xiii) Protocol to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (1998). (xiv) Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety (Maldives acceded on 2 September 2002) and (xv) United Nation Convention to Combat Desertification (2002).

26 8 Project Description 8 . 1 Project Proponent This project is proposed by the Government of the Maldives where the Ministry of Environment (ME) is the implementing agency. Within the Ministry, the Waste Management Department will be overall managing the project. ISDB is financing the development of this project. The Maldivian Government remains committed in solving the issues of solid waste management that are inherent in the greater Male’ region. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) will oversee the enforcement of strict environmental standards during the development and operational phase of this facility at Hulumale’. 8 . 2 Location and Study Area The project takes places in the island of Hulhumale in Kaafu Atoll. The Island is located in the region of Maldives at 4° 12' 10.95'' N and 73°32 19.54'' E. It is approximately 4.0 km north east of the capital Male’ and has an area of about 380 hectares for Hulhumale’ 1 and 2. Administratively Hulhumale’ is considered as a district of Male’.

Figure 1: Location of Hulhumale in Kaafu Atoll 8 . 3 Need and Justification for the project Solid waste has become one of the most visible threats in the Maldivian islands. This has led to pollution in coastal areas resulting in various negative health and environmental issues. A waste transfer site is important in each island for safe and managed waste collection before being transferred for final disposal. The island of Hulhumale does not have an existing Island Solid Waste Management Centre. Presently, the waste is collected and transferred to landing craft which is located on north western corner of Hulhumale. This a temporary arrangement to transport the waste which is collected at Hulhumale’ to Thilafushi for final disposal. There are no facilities to encourage separation of different fractions of

27 waste, or to assist loading the waste into containers. Dumping on the beach and within the island is commonplace, showing lack of acceptance and underutilization by islanders. The following figure shows an aerial view of the existing IWMC from the air.

Figure 2: Temporary waste transfer location at Hulhumalé. The temporary waste transfer area are found to be managed more or less properly. Deficiencies found include (i) area is located near a hotel that is being developed at Hulhumale’, (ii) that the area is not fenced (iii) probably undersized for purpose, as much illegally dumped waste can be seen on the beach and around the island, indicating a need for greater capacity.

Figure 3: Existing Waste transfer area at Hulhumale’ The proposed infrastructure improvements are to form part of an improved integrated system of waste management in Zone 3, one of seven zones into which the country is divided for waste management purposes and consisting of the atolls of Alifu Alifu, Alifu Dhaalu, Kaafu, and Vaavu). This concept has been designed, which uses a 30-year planning horizon to 2047. Waste is collected from homes, institutions and industries and conveyed to the waste transfer station.

28 The main waste streams will comprise household waste and mixed waste from homes, commercial entities including markets, construction and demolition waste and paper and cardboard waste collected primarily from schools and administrative establishments. The collected waste will be transported to the Regional Waste Management Facility (RWMF) at Thilafushi. During the feasibility for the establishment of the regional waste management facility at Thilafushi at Zone carried out by Ministry of Environment (2018), a waste survey waste carried out in Hulhumale. Following is the composition of waste from households at Hulhumale’. Table 1: Waste composition of MSW from households and hotels Waste composition Household (%) Organics 60 Garden waste (10%) Kitchen waste (40%) Other organics (10%) Paper and cardboard 10 Glass 3 Plastics 10 Metals 4 Hazardous waste 3 Others (inert and dust) 10 The waste transfer station at Hulhumale’ has been designed based on the waste quantity projections as presented in the table below which is presented in Ministry of Environment (2018).

29 Table 2: Waste quantity projection to be processed at Hulhumale’ TS Year Unit 2017 2020 2025 2030 2035 2044 2047

Population Hulhumale' Persons 23.983 36.475 65.070 71.843 80.098 104.510 114.201 Total population Persons 23.983 36.475 65.070 71.843 80.098 104.510 114.201 Households Hulhumale' Number 4.257 6.474 11.550 12.752 14.218 18.551 20.271 Total households Number 4.257 6.474 11.550 12.752 14.218 18.551 20.271 Waste generated (households and commercial) Generation per head kg/day 0,71 0,80 0,90 0,94 0,94 0,94 0,94 Hulhumale' Mg/ day 20 35 71 81 90 118 128 Total HH-waste generated Mg/day 20 35 71 81 90 118 128 Waste generated and collected (households and commercial) Service coverage ratio 89% 98% 100% 100% 100% 100% 100% Hulhumale' Mg/ day 18 34 71 81 90 118 128 Total HH-waste collected Mg/ day 18 34 71 81 90 118 128 Total HH-waste collected (bins) m³/day 52 97 201 231 257 336 367 Total HH-waste collected (collection vehicle) m³/day 26 49 101 115 129 168 183 Waste receptacles min. (collection points) 1,1 m³ 58 108 224 256 286 373 408 Alternative 1 : 0,77 m³ 82 155 320 366 409 533 582 Alternative 2: 0,66 m³ 96 180 373 427 477 622 680 Waste container (Transfer) 25 m³ 2 2 5 5 6 7 8

30 8 . 4 Project Components The allocated land plot is a vacant plot at Hulhumale’. Therefore, the two main objective of the project is to develop a proper waste transfer site to protect the public health and to protect the environment. The concept is to develop a new and functioning waste transfer facility at Hulhumale. The waste transfer facility will have a waste transfer area paved with asphalt or concrete, administration building, a store, workshop, weighbridge, and parking lots.

Figure 4: concept layout design of the waste transfer station at Hulhumale’ The project components are outlined in the concept drawings found in the annex. The concept for the waste transfer facility has been developed with following design requirements of the buildings and civil works. Transfer Area Description Quantity Min. Max. Unit Transfer building 1 pcs Management and Workshop building 1 pcs Fuel tank 1 pcs Container storage place 12 pcs Truck parking lot 35 30 35 pcs Motorcycle parking lot 25 24 25 pcs Car parking lot 2 2 3 pcs

8 . 4 . 1 General layout The site is an actually unused area of approximately 1ha. The access is made through the main access road from the south the Hulhumale phase 1. The area is at the southern tip next to the service facilities for Hulhumale.

31 Figure 5: Location of the proposed waste transfer station at Hulhumale 8 . 4 . 2 Site infrastructure The proposed waste transfer station consists of waste reception/guard house, a 3 storey administration and social building, a transfer/tipping desk with minimum 4 tipping bays mainly for HH waste and for small/non-bulky C&D waste, a maintenance/workshop, roads, carriageways, sidewalks and parking lots, stormwater drainage system, landscaping and fencing around the perimeter of the boundary. 8 . 4 . 3 Waste reception/guard house The waste transfer facility will be designed with a waste reception / gurad house at the entrance of the facility. The guard house will ensured ensure that the guard house is incorporated into the fence of the facility to provide security to the facility. Site security is an important consideration. In order to ensure good security conditions, the site will completely be fenced by a mesh wire fence (min. height 2.0 m). The access to the transfer station will be limited to the main entrance, with a simple (non-electronically charged) mesh wire gate (5.0 m large/height 2.0 m) bottom frontal rolling frame.

32 Figure 5: fences and gate The guard house will include a fully equipped office room that is suitable to install the hardware for the weighing system to weigh the incoming waste to the facility. 8 . 4 . 4 A d ministrative building The Administrative building is located just after the entrance gate (see Figure 4). This building will be in an elevated position in order to allow a better overview of the site and to optimize the communication and procedures with incoming and outgoing trucks. The administrative building will have a lobby and reception area, offices for the WAMCO administration and management staff, laboratory and sample storage room, changing and locker rooms for the WAMCO waste collection staff and the staff working on the Transfer station and social facilities such as canteen and recreation room, prayer rooms. See Table 3 to the services included in the building design.

33 Figure 5: Front view of the Administrative building (view from south west) Table 3: Minimum quantitative design requirements of the buildings Management Building Description Quantity Min. Max. Unit Floors 3 3 pcs Staircase 1 1 pcs Ground Floor Floor Area 250 m2 Women dressing room 1 40 m2 Men dressing room 1 40 m2 Women toilet 2 6 m2 Men toilet 2 6 m2 1st Floor Floor Area 250 m2 Women toilet 1 6 m2 Men toilet 1 6 m2 Canteen kitchen and order space 1 59 m2 Canteen eating space 1 90 m2 2nd Floor Floor Area 250 m2 Women toilet 1 6 m2 Men toilet 1 6 m2 Kitchen room 1 18.5 m2 Office room 3 14.5 m2 Director office room 2 36.5 m2 3rd Floor Floor Area 329 m2 Women toilet 1 6 m2 Men toilet 1 6 m2 Kitchen room 1 18.5 m2 Meeting room 1 18.5 m2 Office room 3 14.5 m2 Director office room 2 36.5 m2

8 . 4 . 5 W a s t e t r a n s f e r a r e a The waste transfer area will have a ramp for the trucks to move up to dump the waste into the containers which are placed on concrete floor. The unloading areas of the Transfer station have been designed in order to optimize as much as possible the need of space and can unload waste into containers on either side of the waste transfer area. The unloading areas will be protected against rain by a metallic shed structure which has been dimensioned with a sufficient height to allow the opening of the waste lifting and unloading system of a 2-axis waste collection truck. The shed has a slope of 5% in order to allow an adequate rainwater runoff and a gutter for rainwater collection and evacuation to the surface water drainage system. The container area which will catch the waste has been dimensioned to allow all shunting of the hook lift trucks (3 axis trucks). Additional areas have been foreseen for future sorted 3 fraction bunker and storage construction, for extra containers and parking lots. The complete area of the transfer station would be paved with concrete.

34 Figure 6: View of the waste transfer area from south east.

8 . 4 . 6 Maintenance w o r k s h o p A maintenance workshop will be included in the waste transfer facility. The workshop will be equipped with the necessary equipment and tools to accomplish routine maintenance and overhaul of equipment. The workshop will be developed with two floors with a floor area of 350 m² in ground floor and 75 m² in first floor. have area. Ground floor will have space to maintain 5 vehicles and two office rooms. First floor will have two office rooms. The workshop will be accessible from both outside and inside to allow large equipment to be maintained in the workshop. The workshop shall be provided with sufficient high bay doors and lifting hoists as necessary. The mechanical workshop will be ventilated, the electronic and control & instrumentation compartment air conditioned and shall be equipped with the necessary building services to operate the workshop, the installations and the tools. 8 . 4 . 7 Weigh bridge The weighing system consisting of a weigh bridge and weighing software that will be used to (a) weigh incoming waste, (b) control the supply of fuels, and (c) weigh any other material whose mass shall be controlled. The contractor will design the weighbridge and its computerized recording of incoming and exiting vehicles to facilitate the operations without any manual intervention during weight recording. Load (or weighing) cells will be calibrated by a third party or by the supplier certifying the correctness of their functions prior to the commissioning. The weighing system will allow for each weighing event to be logged and allocated to a delivery vehicle jointly with a time stamp for entering and exiting. All components of the weighing system which are prone to corrosion shall be manufactured using corrosion protected steel. The entire system shall not be affected by electromagnetic fields, e.g. radio frequencies, industrial frequencies. Appropriate storm surge, earthing and lightning protection shall be provided and installed. The weighbridge area shall be surveyed by a CCTV camera which shall be monitored from the administration building. 8 . 4 . 8 Roads, carriageways, sidewalks and parking lots The waste transfer facility will be developed with roads, carriageways, sidewalks and parking lots for waste collection trucks and vehicles of the visitors and staff. The parking lot will be designed to have space to park for 35 waste collection trucks, 25 motorbikes and 2 cars.

35 8 . 4 . 9 Rainwater drainage system The surface water will be collected by surface water ditch surrounding the site. The surface water ditch should be constructed as an open concrete ditch around the Transfer facility. The contractor will design a drainage system for the site. The surface drainage system will be plan and design the surface drainage system with adequate water drainage channels and to manage the highest seasonal levels and volumes of storm water In accordance with the environmental standards, the surface water management system would be design for 1 in 25 year return period flows at the periphery of the Site to facilitate run off management. The site would be designed with adequate protection from flooding whether from rain, storms or any other source.

Figure 7: Scheme for the surface water ditch 8 . 4 . 1 0 U t i l i t i e s The water demand for the facility is expected to be 10,000 L/day. The site is designed with a water reservoir to store 10,000 L of water in a PE tank with upper ground tank with a feeding pump. The water tank will be cleaned weekly and filled with supplied water. The entrance road, administrative building and the ramp area would be illuminated adequately. 30 lights are mounted on lightning poles for external illumination. 12 additional lights would be mounted on the transfer shed. The light pole will be 7m with 20 lux, steel polygonal pole, flange and anchor bolts included, arm brackets. 1-side illumination, steel arm for mounting lighting fixtures. Electrical supply will be provided by connecting the site with the low voltage line passing at south of the site. This works includes the power supply cable from low voltage distribution network to Main Distribution Panel board, also the others low voltage cables supplying, external lighting panel, including delivery and laying of the cables in plastic conduits including earthing system. 8 . 4 . 1 1 Landscaping Landscaping plan will be part of the detailed design. The waste transfer facility is located in a industrial zone at Hulhumale away from habitations. Protective measures with local plants and trees will be foreseen in order to be in harmony with the surrounding landscaping. 8 . 4 . 1 2 S i g n s The facility will have all signing measures in order optimize all incoming and out coming flows. Customized sign boards for the infrastructure and the communication path will be included.

36 8 . 5 Waste Collection Services – Operation Phase After construction works are completed the Waste Transfer Station will be handed over to WAMCO. WAMCO will manage the operation of the Waste Transfer Station according to the approved IWMP. Daily collection services will be taken from households, business and government offices. Waste will be transported to the facility by waste collection trucks. These trucks will carry the waste up to the transfer area, where waste is unloaded into the containers. The filled containers will be carried by an hook-lift truck that pulls the containers onto the truck, and then pulls it back on the landing craft at the ramp which is located on south western side of Hulhumalé. Landing craft will transfer the waste containers to Regional Waste Management Facility for Zone III at Thilafushi for final processing and disposal. For individuals looking to dispose of their waste themselves, a civic amenity area is available with separate waste bins for various types of waste at the Waste Transfer Station 8 . 6 Project duration It is expected to take 12 months for the completion of the project. A work plan and schedule will be provided to the client once the mobilization begins.

37 8 . 7 Project Inputs and Outputs The project has inputs in terms of human resources, and natural resources and machinery.

8 . 7 . 1 P r o j e c t I n p u t s – Construction phase Table 4: Matrix of major inputs during construction period Input resource(s) Source/ Type How to obtain resources

30 to 50 Construction workers Maldivians +foreign labours Contractor’s responsibility Management and maintenance Locals Proponent and Operator’s responsibility staff Construction materials Reinforcement steel bars, sand, Import and purchase where locally cement, aggregates, etc. available at competitive prices – Contractor’s responsibility. Telecommunication Dhiraagu/Ooredoo Maldives Fuel Available from Male’ Heavy machinery Contractor’s responsibility Electricity/Energy Electricity for operation STELCO

8 . 7 . 2 Project Outputs - construction phase The type of outputs (products and waste streams) and what is expected to happen to them are given in the following table. Table 5: Matrix of major outputs of construction period Products and Anticipated quantities Method of disposal / management waste materials Constructional 200 to 250 cbm Construction waste will be transported to waste Thilafushi periodically during construction or once the project is complete. Waste Transfer 10,000 m2 - Station Noise Localized to the project site Unavoidable during the construction stage but including the surrounding areas. need to be minimized. Loud noise equipment This is unavoidable. not be used at night time. Air pollution Limited quantities of dust, oxides Mainly arising as a result of emission from the of Nitrogen and sulphur from use construction work such as from the excavators of machinery in the construction and other machinery. Only localized but zone. unavoidable. Waste Oil 50 L per day Stored in a drum and Transported to Thilafushi

38 8 . 7 . 3 Project Inputs – Operational Phase Table 6: Matrix of major inputs of operational period Input resource (s) Source/ Type How to obtain resources 50 operational staff. WAMCO Maldivians (WAMCO Chosen by WAMCO based on the staff) applicant’s experience and skills Maintenance materials for 5-year Pump spares, inspection Import and also local purchase. spares made available chambers covers, replacement pipes, cleaning gear etc. Electricity/Energy (during Electricity from the STELCO construction) island’s main power grid.

8 . 7 . 4 Project Outputs – Operational Phase Table 7 Matrix of major outputs of operational period Products and waste Anticipated quantities Method of disposal / management materials Municipal Solid Waste 34 tonns/day Transferred to Thilafushi on a regular basis

Construction and 97 tonns / day Transferred to Thilafushi on a regular basis Demolition waste Noise Not significant -

Electricity Electricity for operation No significant impact

Air pollution From vehicles and dust from Water misting, if required waste collection trucks

Foul odour Moderate throughout and Keeping the containers closed most of the worse when transferring to time and transferring the waste containers Thilafushi on a daily basis to Thilafushi so that the surfaces can be swept clean and washed down.

39 9 Methodology The section covers methodologies used to collect data on the existing environment. The key environmental and socio-economic components of the project that were considered are physical social and environmental environment. Hence, data collection was undertaken for the above components. In order to study the existing environment of the island, the following data collection methodologies were used during the field visits were undertaken from 2017 to April 2020 to the island. 9 . 1 General Methodologies o f data collection Conditions of the existing environment were analyzed by using appropriate scientific methods. The environmental components of the study area were divided into terrestrial environment, social environment and the groundwater. 9 . 2 Terrestrial su r v e y The baseline terrestrial environment of the project location was studied by field survey. The terrestrial environmental survey was strictly focused on the project boundary. 9 . 3 Ground water assessment Groundwater assessment was conducted to assess the ambient conditions of groundwater at the proposed project location and from a control site. 9 . 4 S o c i o - economic data The base line socio- economic condition of the island and the possible impacts of the project to be caused to the island community were studied by using various methods including, key informant interviews, utilizing existing available data and maps, and exploring development plans for the island available from various sectors. The socio-economic studies undertaken in the island was targeted to get the in-depth information of the community, their perception, values regarding the proposed project.

40 10 Existing Environment 1 0 . 1 Existing general environment of Maldives The baseline information of the proposed project and surrounding area were collected through primary data collected during the study period and available secondary data. The general environmental conditions of Maldives is well documented in many EIA reports and reference is made on the following EIA reports.  EIA for the proposed sewerage treatment plant in Hulhmale’, (CDE Consulting, 2020)  EIA for the proposed Hulhule-Hulhumale connecting link road development project, North Male’ Atoll (Water Solutions, 2017)  EIA for Undertaking Sheet Piling at Hulhumale Phase 1 (Water Solutions 2017)  EIA for the design and project management of the construction of bridges, channels, harbours and shore protection works at Hulhumale’ phase 2 (Water Solution s2017)  EIA Proposed Mixed Residential Building in Plot No. D2-3, Hulhumale’ – Rainbow Oceanfront Residence (Rainbow Construction Pvt. Ltd, 2016) 1 0 . 2 General Climate Settings

1 0 . 2 . 1 Temperature Daily temperatures of Maldives vary little throughout the year with a mean annual temperature of 28°C. The annual mean maximum temperature recorded for Male’ during the period 1967-1995 was 30.4°C and the annual mean minimum temperature for the same period was 25.7°C. The highest recorded temperature for Male’ was 34.1°C on 16th and 28th of April 1973. The hottest month recorded was April 1975 with a maximum monthly average temperature of 32.7°C, the next highest being 32.6°C in April 1998. The lowest minimum average temperature of 23.7°C was recorded in July 1992. The highest yearly average of daily maximum was recorded in HDh. Hanimaadhoo, at 31.7°C, meanwhile the lowest in GDh. Kaadedhdhoo, at 25.0°C (Data of 2018). Nearest to the project site, yearly average maximum temperature in Male is 31°C and the minimum is 26.4°C.

Figure 8: Yearly Average of daily maximum and minimum temperature 2018. (Source: Statistical Yearbook of Maldives 2019) The diagram below shows monthly temperature data since 2000 across Maldives recorded in weather stations. On average Hanimaadhoo has highest maximum temperature throughout the year while Hulhule (nearest to the proposed project location) has the highest minimum monthly temperature (refer the figure below).

41 Figure 9: Temperature data since 2000 in weather stations in Maldives (Source: Maldives Meteorological Service) 1 0 . 2 . 2 R a i n f a l l Annual average rainfall in Maldives is about 1900mm. There is a marked variation in rainfall across Maldives with an increasing trend towards south. The annual average rainfall in north is 1977mm and for south is 2470mm. The southwest monsoon is known as the wet season with monthly average rainfall ranging from 125-250mm. The northeast monsoon is known as the dry season with average monthly rainfall of 50-75mm. Rainfall records indicate an average annual rainfall of 2500mm. The intensity of rainfall is a concern in the Maldives since intensity is high with low frequency. Excessive rainfall with low intensity is not a concern for the island.

Figure 10: Yearly average rainfall 2010-2019 (source: Maldives Meteorological Service) Monthly rainfall data from Hulhule in the year 2019 shows that October had the highest rainfall and the month of march had the lowest rainfall. January to April had the driest period while August to November had the most rainfall throughout the year. Refer to the figure below.

42 Figure 11: Monthly rainfall distribution of 2019 in Hulhule region (Source: Maldives Meteorological Service)

1 0 . 2 . 2 . 1 Maximum rainfall and return period Daily rainfall data from Hulhulhe for the period starting from Jan 1975 to Dec 2016 (42 years) were used to identify maximum annual daily rainfalls and they were subjected to extreme value analysis. Figure 12 shows distribution extreme rainfall over return period. For design purposes, EV1 rainfall distribution and shall consider the values at a recurrence of 25 years.

Figure 12: Extreme rainfall distribution over a return period

Return Period (year) 2 5 10 25 50 100 200 300 400

Design Rainfall (mm) 104.8 130.8 148.1 169.9 186.0 202.1 218.0 227.4 234.0 EV1 Distribution

Figure 13: Design rainfall

43 1 0 . 2 . 3 W i n d 1 0 . 2 . 3 . 1 Wind Speed and Direction The average monthly wind speed in 2018 has been presented in the figure below. The maximum average wind speed has been observed in the month of May in Male’.

Figure 14: Yearly wind direction and speed by month, 2018 (source: Statistical Yearbook of Maldives 2019)

1 0 . 2 . 4 Hazards and Disasters 1 0 . 2 . 4 . 1 Vulnerability to Natural Disasters The islands of the Maldives are less prone to tropical cyclones and are only impacted in the northern part of the country by weak cyclones that formed in the southern part of the Bay of Bengal and the Arabian Sea. Since 1877, only 11 cyclones crossed the archipelago (Maniku, 1990). Most of the cyclones crossed Maldives north of 6.0o N and none of them crossed south of 2.7o N during the period. All the cyclones that affected Maldives were formed during the months of October to January except one, which formed in April (UNDP, 2006).

Figure 15: Cyclonic Wind Hazard Map (source: UNDP, 2006) The northern atolls have a greater risk of cyclonic winds and storm surges. This reduces gradually to very low hazard risk in the southern atolls. The maximum probable wind speed in Zone 5 is 96.8 knots

44 (180 kilometres per hour) and the cyclonic storm category is a lower Category 3 on Saffir-Simpson scale. At this speed, high damage is expected from wind, rain and storm surge hazards (UNDP, 2006). 1 0 . 3 Ground water Aquifer in Hulhumale’ Groundwater is the primary source of water in the islands of Maldives used for almost all the general household purposes. Similar to Male’ in Hulhumale’ also desalinated water provided through an extensive water network is used as the main source of water used for household purposes. Groundwater is formed in Maldives islands as a result of rain infiltrating the soil and floats on the saline water below because of the density differences. “All soil on coral islands are calcareous residual corals derived from weathered corals that form the bedrock coral limestone foundation of the islands” (LaMer 2020). These types of corals are highly permeable. The size of the groundwater lens in Maldives islands are based on the rate of rainfall and the size of the island. Typically, groundwater is found 1.5 meter below the mean sea level in small tropical islands (LaMer. 2020). The proposed project site is located in Phase 1 of Hulhumale. Even though Hulhumale is a reclaimed island, the soil has similar characteristics to other islands of Maldives (Figure 17). Also, considering the land size, being one of the largest inhabited islands, it is estimated that near the project site groundwater is found between 1 and 1.5m below mean sea level. The average recharge of groundwater in the islands of Maldives has been estimated from 40% of rainfall. Based on the average rainfall of approximately 1,700mm/year, this amounts to 680mm/year which is equivalent to 6,800m3 per hectare per year. Studies in Maldives by Falkland (2001a, 2001b, 2002) have defined a generalized recharge potential as 30% of the rainfall with 10% variation depending on the vegetation cover (GWP Consultants, 2006). Phase 1 of Hulhumale has approximately 900m in width (lagoon side to ocean side). According to Deng & Bailey (2017), average lens thickness for an island with width of 900m approximately will be 10m (Figure 16). This study estimates the average thickness of freshwater lens of Maldives island by grouping the islands to 3 regions. Hulhumale is in the group of region 2.

Figure 16: Groundwater lens thickness in relation to island width (Deng & Bailey, 2017). Redline represents island

45 width of 900m.

Figure 17: Soil profile taken on a site in Hulhumale Phase 1 (LaMer, 2020)

1 0 . 3 . 1 Ground water Q u a l i t y Generally, the islands of the Maldives have superficial groundwater lenses below about a metre of coralline sandy soil with a very narrow humus layer on top. The groundwater lenses are formed due to density differences between the percolated rainwater and the saltwater that lies beneath the island. The freshwater lens floats on top of the saltwater. This makes it extremely fragile and prone to saltwater intrusion due to over-abstraction. The depth of the freshwater lens, or aquifer, depends on the groundwater level above mean sea level on the small islands. The typical ratio between the heights of the water lens above mean sea level compared to the depth of freshwater below mean sea level is of the order of 1:20. Groundwater levels above mean sea level on the small islands may be 0.10 to 0.50m above sea level, resulting in a freshwater lens depth of 2-10 m. The ground water quality was obtained at the proposed project location and near the project location (GW3 and GW1) and at a control point (GW2) at Hulhumale. Groundwater sample data was derived from the report ESIA for the Proposed Sewage Treatment Plant in Hulhumale’, CDE, (December 2019). Table 8: Ground water quality at Hulhumale’ (CDE, 2019).

Water Quality GW 1 (near project GW2 (control site) Optimal range site) GPS Locations X73.53785, Y4.20446 X73.54221, Y4.21207 Physical appearance Clear with particles Clear Ammonium - - pH 7.86 8.05 8-8.3 Conductivity (mS/cm) 470 656 Nitrate 3.7 2.9 <5 nitrite - - phosphate 0.11 0.13 0.005-0.020 Salinity (0/00) 0.23 0.32 3.2% - 4.2% Temperature C - - suplhate <10 <10 2 – 80 TPH - - Total Coliform 1553 435 0 mg/l Fecal Coliform 261 40 0 mg/l

46 In addition to the groundwater quality table presented above, groundwater quality tests conducted by LaMer Pvt Ltd in the EIA report for Construction of Fuel Tank at MWSC Plot at Hulhumale’, North Male’ Atoll dated March 2020 is provided below. The MWSC site where the samples were taken is the adjacent site to the project site and hence the results shall reflect the groundwater quality in the project site. This location is shown in the following figure as GW3. Table 9: Groundwater testing result from the MWSC site Hulhumale' (LaMer, 2020)

The following figure shows the above-mentioned groundwater sample locations.

Figure 18: Groundwater sample locations 1 0 . 4 N o i s e Noise pollution can be an environmental and health hazard. However, there are currently no guidelines for noise levels at residential areas in general. Examples of guidelines with regard to noise for residential areas as set World Bank Environmental Health and Safety guidelines for noise at residential areas are: Daytime reference value for noise as set by the World Bank is 55 dBA while night time value is set at 45 dBA. For industrial area, the noise reference level is set at 70dBA.

47 Figures below gives the noise levels measured at the selected sites in the vicinity of the project area. Noise data was collected from the proposed project site and from the nearest residential area. These measurements were taken during afternoon to include ambient noise from traffic that is present in the vicinity in general. As stated in the traffic flow section, the proposed project area undergoes low traffic throughout the day and therefore noise pollution is reasonably low. Near the residential area, there is high traffic compared to the project site and hence the noise level is higher.

Figure 19: Noise level on the project site

48 Figure 20: Noise level near the closest community building

1 0 . 5 T r a f f i c Project site is located on Midhilimagu, Hulhumale’. Some of the maps refer this road as Boashimaa Hingun. This road has 2 separated lanes going to same directions. Project site is on the right side to the driving direction. Vehicles and pedestrians coming from Nirolhumagu goes into this side of the road. The other side of the Midhilimagu is for the vehicles using Hulhumale highway. Therefore, traffic on the project site side of the road is very low compared to the other side which feeds from highway. This area does not have residential or public buildings and hence not much traffic near the project location. The other location surveyed for traffic was Reethigas magu. Vehicles coming from Midhilimagu feeds into this road and it also has a refueling station. So, the traffic is much higher compared to the Midhilimagu near the project site. Figure below shows the traffic recorded for 1 hour in these 2 locations in the morning and in the afternoon.

49 Figure 21: Traffic routes near the project site

Number Number of vehicles 10

0 Pedestrians Bicycles Motorcycles Cars Pickup Trucks Heavy Vehicles

Figure 22: Traffic flow in the afternoon (13:00-14:00) at Midhili Magu on the project location side (A).

50 20

8 Number Number of vehicles 6

0 Pedestrians Bicycles Motorcycles Cars Pickup Trucks Heavy Vehicles

Figure 23: Traffic flow in the morning (09:00-10:00) at Midhili Magu on the project location side (A)

1200

1000

800

600

Number Number of vehicles 400

200

0 Pedestrians Bicycles Motorcycles Cars Pickup Trucks Heavy Vehicles

Figure 24: Traffic flow in the afternoon (13:00-14:00) at Reethigas Magu on the project location side (B).

51 700

600

500

400

300 Number Number of vehicles 200

100

0 Pedestrians Bicycles Motorcycles Cars Pickup Trucks Heavy Vehicles

Figure 25: Traffic flow in the morning (09:00-10:00) at Reethigas Magu on the project location side (B). 1 0 . 6 Condition of Vegetation on the Project S i t e The proposed site consists mainly of dead grass and plants towards the southern side, near the road. However, species of plants such as Magoo (Scaevola sericea), Ipil-Ipil (Leucaena glauca) and Jeymu (Muntingia rosea) can be observed further into the site. These trees are mostly juvenile trees. There is a large patch of dead trees towards the center of the site, surrounded by large volumes of Dhaagandu Kekuri (Dysosmia foetida), Maahui (Cynosurus aegyptius) and other grass and shrubs.

Figure 26: Photos taken from the proposed site. Top left image shows the Ipil-ipil trees on the side of the plot. Bottom left shows a small Magoo plant in the middle of the plot; bottom right shows the roadside of the plot and other photos shows the dead grass and small shrubs inhabiting the project site.

52 1 0 . 7 Features of the waste stream The features of the solid waste stream at Hulhumale include:  A high proportion of green waste and kitchen waste from households.  Very little paper and glass in the household waste.  household gardening exists, to some extent, on the island.  The island has motorized vehicles and industries on the island, producing waste oils and batteries.  Apart from the normal household hazardous wastes (such as dry cell batteries), Hulhumale has special wastes requiring disposal waste from industries and commercial activities.  Construction and demolition waste is a key component of the waste generated at the island 1 0 . 7 . 1 Amount of waste generated The major waste streams contributing to the waste generation in Hulhumale are household waste, with small amounts of hotel waste, construction and demolition waste, and medical waste. Table 10: Waste quantification and projection of Household and similar waste of the projected population (Source: ME, 2018) Year Item Unit 2017 2020 2025 2030 2035 2040 2045 2047 Population Total population Persons 23,983 36,475 65,070 71,843 80,098 92,855 107,645 114,201 Households Total households Number 4,257 6,474 11,550 12,752 14,218 16,482 19,108 20,271 Waste generated (households and commercial) Consumption per head kg/day 0.71 0.80 0.90 0.94 0.94 0.94 0.94 0.94 Hulhumale' Mg/ day 20 35 71 81 90 104 121 128 Total HH-waste generated 20 35 71 81 90 104 121 128 Waste generated and collected (households and commercial) Service coverage ratio 89% 98% 100% 100% 100% 100% 100% 100% Hulhumale' Mg/ day 18 34 71 81 90 104 121 128 Total HH-waste collected Mg/ day 18 34 71 81 90 104 121 128 Total HH-waste collected (bins) (density 0.35 m³/day 52 97 201 231 257 298 346 367 m³/Mg) Total HH-waste collected (collection vehicle) m³/day 26 49 101 115 129 149 173 183 (density 0,7 m³/Mg) The waste projections of household waste and hotel waste are seen below. They have been generated based on baseline values from previous studies (Clark (2008), Homavazir (2001), MEE (2011) and (MEE (2017)) carried out in the Maldives and in other developing countries, as well as using the Greater Male’ household waste survey carried out for the design of the facility. 1 0 . 7 . 2 Waste Collection With the establishment of the Waste Transfer Station and a proper waste management system in Hulhumale’, waste collection services will be replaced by a formal and more strategic operation by the Waste Management Corporation. Considering the waste generation and evolution, the waste parameters (density loose, density after compaction etc.), the following estimations for the collection and transfer system were made with 5 year steps. This forecast planning has been made for 30 years from 2017.

53 Table 11: Planning parameters for TS Hulhumale’ (Source: ME, 2018)

Year Item Unit Comments 2020 2025 2030 2035 2040 2045 2047 Hulhumale' Total population Persons 36.475 65.07 71.843 80.098 92.855 107.645 114.201 Total households Number 6.474 11.55 12.752 14.218 16.482 19.108 20.271 Total HH-waste collected Mg/ day 34 71 81 90 104 121 128 C&D waste Mg/day 212 234 259 286 306 322 328 Total HH-waste collected (bins) m³/day 0,35 t/m³ 97 201 231 257 298 346 367 Total HH-waste collected (collection vehicle)m³/day 0,7 t/m³ 49 101 115 129 149 173 183 Total market C&D collected (vehicle) direct haul by individuals Waste receptacles min. (collection points) filling gradereserve 1,1 units 90% 10% 108 224 256 286 332 384 408 0,77 units 90% 10% 155 320 366 409 474 549 582 0,66 units 90% 10% 180 373 427 477 553 641 680 Waste container (Transfer container) 25 m³ without HH waste unit 0,7 t/m³ additional 2 5 5 6 6 7 8 compaction with HH waste unit 1,1 t/m³ additional 2 3 3 4 4 5 5 roller packer without C&D waste unit 0,6 t/m³ additional 15 16 18 20 21 22 22 compaction additional Paper and Cardboard unit 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 container Total container need for Hulhumale (min) units/day 18 20 22 25 26 28 28 Total container need for Hulhumale (max) units/day 18 22 24 27 28 30 31 In order for such a strategy to succeed in terms of efficient logistics, it would be vital for there to be an optimal collection path to be in place. 1 0 . 7 . 3 Possible Future Trends Future trends that may affect solid waste generation include:  Continued population growth on the island leading more multiple story buildings. This will result in higher population densities;  Increasing building and renovation on the island, producing increased construction and demolition waste, specials wastes (i.e. paints, solvents etc.), continued shift from a inhabited island to an urban center;  Occasional disposal of large outdated or broken consumer items (i.e. refrigerators, televisions)  Increase of industries and commercial activities on the island.  Increase in motorized vehicles on the island, generating increased special wastes 1 0 . 8 S o c i o - Economic Environment

1 0 . 8 . 1 . Overview of Kaafu atoll There are 12 inhabited islands in the administrative Kaafu atoll. The administrative atoll has 4 geographical atoll which are Kaashidhoo, Gaafaru, male’ atholhu dhekunuburi and Male’ atholhu uthuru buri. These atolls comprise of a total number of 107 islands. Thulusdhoo is the capital island of the Atoll. Male’ located in the middle of the atoll is the capital island of the Maldives. Male’ and other islands of the atoll have huge difference in terms of services and economic activities. Kaafu Atoll dominates most of the tourism activities of the Maldives since tourism was introduced to the Maldives in 1972. Velana International airport located in the island Hulhule’ is the main gateway

54 of the Maldives and has been linked to Hulhumale’ via the bridge. Hulhumale’ has a large number of guest houses, industries and commercial centers. 1 0 . 8 . 1 3 P o p u l a t i o n According to results of 2014 census, Hulhumale’ has a population of 15,769 with 8,175 males and 7,594 females. Hulhumale is a recreation and leisure island for a number of people living in Malé. It is estimated that hundreds of people visit Hulhumale’ during weekend for leisure purposes and for work during weekdays. Table 12: Population statistics for Kaafu Atoll (Census 2006 & 2014) Locality Population 2006 Population 2014 (Including resident Foreigners) Both sexes Male Female Both sexes Male Female

Male’ 103,693 51,992 51,701 133,019 66,155 66,864 Villingili 6,956 3,462 3,494 7,790 4,029 3,761 HUlhumale’ 2,866 1,620 1,246 15,769 8,175 7,594 Kaashidhoo 1,696 818 878 1,865 942 923 Gaafaru 800 401 399 1,061 565 496 Dhiffushi 767 383 384 1,024 524 500 Thulusdhoo 1,148 594 554 1,388 778 610 Huraa 849 510 339 1,142 665 477 Himmafushi 1,007 657 350 1,308 845 463 Gulhi 662 352 310 893 519 374 Maafushi 2,000 1,326 674 2,692 1,890 802 Guraidhoo 1,220 674 546 1,605 941 664

1 0 . 8 . 1 4 H u l h u m a l e I s l a n d Hulhumale’ is the reclaimed island located off the North East Coast of Male’ and Velana International Airport, Hulhule’ in Kaafu atoll. This project was aimed to relieve the congestion and housing crisis in Male by plans to accommodate the growing population with a design incorporating both urban and island life. Population of Hulhumale’ reached 15,000 in the year 2013 and has been increasing since. This project is said to accommodate two thirds of the entire population of Maldives. This was also the largest land reclamation project in which approximately 430 hectares were reclaimed. In the 2006 census Hulhumalé population was 2,866 with 1620 males and 1,246 females. People are living in 412 households with an average household having seven members. Though the registered population is around 3,000 it is estimated that around 16,000 people will be living in Hulhumalé at present. Hulhumalé is a recreation and leisure island for a number of people living in Malé. It is estimated that 8,000 people visit Hulhumalé during weekend for leisure purposes. The site is located on the south side of Hulhumale at the entrance road from the Male’-Hulhumale connecting bridge to the 1st part of Hulhumale city. 1 0 . 8 . 1 4 . 1 Transportation Services The transport services at Hulhumale is provided by MTCC and the ferry terminal is operated by MTCC and the following are the services. Ferry service is operated by MTCC. It is conducted between Malé and Hulhumale’ and operates 24 hours daily with ferries every 20 minutes leaving both from the Malé and Hulhumale’ terminals from 6:00 am to 1:00 am. Between 1:15 am to 6:00 am ferries operate in every 30 minutes. The average carrying capacity of the ferries is 50 people per boat.

55 MTCC also operates the public buses in Hulhumale’, between Hulhumale’and Velana International Airport and Hulhumale’ and Male’. There is taxi service available in the island. Personal use of motorized vehicles is allowed in Hulhumalé. 1 0 . 8 . 1 4 . 2 U t i l i t i e s Electricity in Hulhumale’ is provided by STELCO. MWSC is providing water and sewerage services to the island. There is an existing sewerage network and water distribution network. Households, commercial development and industries are provided with freshwater through this network. 1 0 . 9 Transport Mechanism A harbor has been developed on western side of Hulhumale and ramps for landing craft to load and unload waste trucks is found on south western side of the island near the MPL site. Landing crafts will transport waste containers to Thilafushi when it is loaded with trucks from the waste transfer station at Hulhumalé.

56 11 Environmental Impacts 1 1 . 1 Method of Assessment The potential impacts and mitigation measures have been identified through review of the feasibility study prepared for the project, discussion with the designers and stakeholder consultation. The feasibility study presents the preliminary design. initial screening and categorization and the assessment shows that the subproject is unlikely to cause significant adverse impacts. 1 1 . 2 Environmental Impacts Related to Location The waste transfer station is proposed at the industrial / commercial zone at Hulhumale’. Presently the proposed site is an empty plot which has no vegetation and buildings. Currently Hulhumale does not have a proper waste management center or a waste transfer station to transfer the waste which is collected from Hulhumale’ to Thilafushi. Establishment of the waste transfer station at the proposed site will help to address existing impacts of solid waste generation and accumulation, by enabling bulk handling of waste such that it can be efficiently removed from residential and industrial areas and construction sites, sorted and loaded onto vessels for transport to the landfill on Thilafushi island. The project is to establish a facility, and enable to handle grow future waste flows for waste management. Project includes a community outreach component to promote the “3 Rs” and mitigate both the volume of solid waste that will increase with growing population and the level of separation, to facilitate efficient handling of the different factions. 1 1 . 2 . 1 S urrounding seawater and marine ecosystems The facility is located close to the shoreline of the island on southern side of the island. The use of a containerized system and equipment, to be provided by the project, will reduce the loss of waste to the sea. More efficient separation of waste fractions including hazardous waste as a result of the improved collection system and capacity building support to WAMCO, also to be included in Project, will further reduce levels of contamination. If the efficiencies of site operation made easier using the containerized system are achieved, the potential impact is long term, positive, significant and will cover both the immediate area around the islands and the wider marine environment in the Zone 3 (central region of the Maldives) and beyond. 1 1 . 2 . 2 V e g e t a t i o n Infrastructure improvements will be within the boundary of the project site at Hulhumalé and will not entail removal of vegetation. As part of the project, landscaping would be carried out at the site. No damage to vegetation is expected. No impact on vegetation is envisaged at any of the locations. 1 1 . 2 . 3 Surrounding land use The proposed site is in an industrial / municipal use zone at Hulhuamel, far away from residential area. Improvements in efficiency and protected storage areas will mitigate the effects of increased waste and by community outreach to be included with Project, providing advice and assistance related to reduced, re-used waste and recycling to reduce the volume that needs to be handled at the facility. The potential impact is positive, significant, long term and will cover the immediate area around the transfer station and the industrial area near the project site. 1 1 . 2 . 4 Impedance of tr a f f i c . The layout of the waste transfer facility is designed to enable efficient transfer of waste to containers, and therefore more rapid throughput of trucks bringing waste from around the island. This measure, in combination with careful scheduling of waste collection will reduce the risks of queuing of vehicles containing waste and impeding traffic in the area. The operation of collection vehicles is therefore unlikely to impede local traffic. The potential impact is not significant.

57 1 1 . 2 . 5 Loss of land and e ffects on property The establishment of the waste transfer station at Hulhumalé will take place within the boundaries of proposed site. No private property will be affected and land acquisition will not be required and there is no impact due to loss of land or effects on property. Table 13 summarizes the impacts related to location. Based on the assessment, the location of the transfer station will have potential impacts that are general positive, consistent with the project’s objectives. Table 13: Summary of impacts related to location

Environmental Impact Impacts Surrounding seawater and marine ecosystems Long term, positive, significant Vegetation Nil Surrounding land use Long term, positive, confined to immediate surrounds Impedance of traffic Temporary, not significant Loss of land and effects on property Nil

1 1 . 3 Environmental Impacts Related to Construction

1 1 . 3 . 1 Construction method The methods to be used for site preparation, fabrication, construction and commissioning, as well as associated arrangements to ensure sound environmental management and safety at all times, are to be defined by the Contractor in a Contractor’s Environmental Management Plan (CEMP) submitted to the Project Management Design and Supervision Consultant (PMDSC) for approval. The CEMP must adhere to EHS general guidelines 1 to 4 (environmental, occupational health and safety, community health and safety and for construction and decommissioning). 1 1 . 3 . 2 Impedance of traffic Construction vehicle movements will add to traffic levels in the vicinity of the construction site. The impact is temporary and will be mitigated by requiring the contractor to provide notices to the public advising of timing and duration of construction work and the effects on traffic routes during construction and to the extent practicable, schedule work that blocks roadways to periods of low traffic. 1 1 . 3 . 3 Noise pollution and vibration Construction operations, particularly excavations and compaction will cause noise and vibration, which will be particularly apparent where ambient noise levels are lower. The nearest residential area is approximately 500 m from the proposed waste transfer station site, while the school is approximately 700 m away. To mitigate the impacts, the contractors will be required to (i) provide information on scheduled work to affected persons through direct liaison about the timing and duration of the works (ii) limit construction activities to normal daylight working hours (iii) adhere to the planned work schedule and (iv) ensure that all construction equipment and vehicles are kept in good working order with working exhaust mufflers. 1 1 . 3 . 4 Waste Generation Construction waste will include packaging of equipment, fuels, lubricants, materials, equipment and food and some rubble where existing structures need to be demolished. Some specialist lubricants and paint for marking may be hazardous. Contractors will be responsible for removing waste to Thilafushi. Approval from the PMDSC must be obtained prior to importing materials rated as hazardous under the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals.

58 1 1 . 3 . 5 Handling of Waste during the Construction Period Waste produced and collected from households, markets and construction sites during construction needs to be transported to Thilafushi. This will be carried by WAMCO using the temeporary site which is located on north western side of Hulhumale’. Hence no impact would be on the collection, transport of waste during the construction stage of the project. 1 1 . 3 . 6 Release of silt Excavations to form foundations for structures will involve making temporary stockpiles of material that will either be removed or re-used. To prevent the release of silt into drains or the sea contractors will be required to ensure that (i) excavated areas are rapidly refilled on completion of works, (ii) to place silt fences around temporary piles of excavated material and (iii) avoid excavation in wet weather to the extent practicable. 1 1 . 3 . 7 Water pollution The use of vehicles and plant can cause risks of water pollution, in the event of leaks and spills of fuel, lubricants, hydraulic fluid or other fluids used for vehicle operation. To reduce risks and limit impacts the contractor will be required to ensure that vehicles and plant are maintained in sound operable condition, free of leaks and that the condition of vehicles and equipment is regularly checked. The contractor will prepare and submit a plan for spill management, including provision of spill kits, training/briefing of workers on procedures on handling spills and allocation of responsibility within the contractor's team for ensuring that spill kits are available and that workers know how to use them. 1 1 . 3 . 8 Air and dust pollution Potential sources of air pollution are exhaust fumes from vehicles and plant, dust from transport of construction and waste materials and areas around work sites where soil and debris is deposited. The effect will not significant in Hulhumale as the site is located in an industrial zone. The mitigation measures are to require vehicles and equipment to be well maintained and tuned and fitted with exhaust baffles. Water will be applied to suppress dust around work sites where needed. 1 1 . 3 . 9 Community health and safety risks The use of plant and machinery, use of compressed air lines and cables and excavations are potentially hazardous but most work sites are within the transfer station areas where public access is restricted. The contractor will ensure that restrictions to access are enforced and for work on waste transfer deck, administrative building, gates and boundary fences adjoining public roads and footpaths, will provide notices to the public identifying hazards and erect safety barriers/covers for areas of open excavation. Contractors shall establish their community health and safety plans following international best practices and the World Bank EHS guidelines on construction and decommissioning activities. As a minimum and whichever is applicable, the community health and safety plan shall ensure the following:  Implement risk management strategies to protect the community from physical, chemical, or other hazards associated with sites under construction and decommissioning.  Restricting access to the site, through a combination of institutional and administrative controls, with a focus on high risk structures or areas depending on site-specific situations, including fencing, signage, and communication of risks to the local community.  Removing hazardous conditions on construction sites that cannot be controlled affectively with site access restrictions, such as covering openings to small confined spaces, ensuring means of escape for larger openings such as trenches or excavations, or locked storage of hazardous materials; and  Implement measure to prevent proliferation of vectors of diseases at work sites.

59 1 1 . 3 . 1 0 Occupational Health and Safety To reduce day to day risks associated with working with heavy equipment in trafficked areas, contractor will be required to appoint health and safety officer to ensure regular briefing of the construction workforce on health and safety issues. Contractor shall establish their occupational health and safety plan to be adopted at the site following international best practices and the World Bank EHS guidelines on construction and decommissioning activities. As minimum and whichever are applicable, the occupational health and safety plan shall ensure the following: (I) Communication and Training (a) Training of all workers on occupational health and safety prior to construction works. (b) Conduct of orientation to visitors on health and safety procedures at work sites. (c) Signages strategically installed to identify all areas at work sites, including hazard or danger areas. (d) Proper labeling of equipment and containers at construction and storage sites; and (e) Suitable arrangements to cater for emergencies, including: first aid equipment; personnel trained to administer first aid; communication with, and transport to, the nearest hospital with an accident / emergency department; monitoring equipment; rescue equipment; fire fighting (f) equipment; and communication with nearest fire brigade station. (II) Physical Hazards (a) Use of personal protective equipment (PPE) by all workers such as earplugs, safety shoes, hard hats, masks, goggles, etc. as applicable, and ensure these are used properly. (b) Avoidance of slips and falls through good house-keeping practices, such as the sorting and placing loose construction materials or demolition debris in established areas away from foot paths, cleaning up excessive waste debris and liquid spills regularly, locating electrical cords and ropes in common areas and marked corridors, and use of slip retardant footwear; (c) Use of bracing or trench shoring on deep excavation works. (d) Adequate lighting in dark working areas and areas with night works. (e) Rotating and moving equipment inspected and tested prior to use during construction works. These shall be parked at designated areas and operated by qualified and trained operators only. (f) Specific site traffic rules and routes in place and known to all personnel, workers, drivers, and equipment operators; and (g) Use of air pollution source equipment and vehicles that are well maintained and with valid permits. (III) General Facility Design and Operation (a) Regular checking of integrity of workplace structures to avoid collapse or failure. (b) Ensuring workplace can withstand severe weather conditions. (c) Enough workspaces available for workers, including exit routes during emergencies. (d) Fire precautions and firefighting equipment installed. (e) First aid stations and kits are available. Trained personnel should be available at all times who can provide first aid measures to victims of accidents. (f) Secured storage areas for chemicals and other hazardous and flammable substances are installed and ensure access is limited to authorized personnel only. (g) Good working environment temperature maintained. (h) Worker camps and work sites provided with housekeeping facilities, such as separate toilets for male and female workers, drinking water supply, wash and bathing water, rest areas, and other lavatory and worker welfare facilities; and (i) Maintain records and make reports concerning health, safety and welfare o persons, and damage to property. Take remedial action to prevent a recurrence of any accidents that may occur.

60 Table 14 summarizes the impacts related to construction. As all can be mitigated by consistent application of the mitigation measures described, none are significant.

Table 14: Summary of impacts related to construction

Potential Impact Impacts Impedance of traffic Negative, temporary, not significant Noise and Vibration Negative, temporary, significant Waste generation Negative, temporary, not significant Release of silt Negative, temporary, not significant Water pollution Negative, temporary, not significant Air and dust pollution Negative, temporary, not significant Community health and safety risk Negative, temporary, not significant Occupational health and safety Negative, temporary, not significant

1 1 . 4 Environmental Impacts Related to Operation The proposed waste transfer station is designed specifically to address existing and future operational constraints related to safe and efficient handling of waste, collection of recyclables and transfer of waste to Thilafushi. Existing impacts at the temporary waste transfer site that are addressed including excessive loss of waste to the sea during loading of transfer vessels, site security, inability to accurately weigh incoming waste, constraints on maintenance and safe storage of vehicles and plant, and site drainage. The impacts for operational phase are summarized in Table 15. 1 1 . 4 . 1 Use of containers While containers provide a more efficient system of handling and loading waste, reducing potential losses into the sea, any breakages or mishandling of containers will result in significant discharge of waste into the sea. Operation and maintenance training must provide for instruction on maintenance of containers, loaders, cranes and vessels and sound operation including licensing of vehicle and plant operators and restrictions on operation during stormy weather. 1 1 . 4 . 2 Retention of waste awaiting transfer to the RWMF In practice, vessels may not, on some occasions, be stacked with a full payload of filled containers. However, deferring of sailings will entail retention of waste with a putrescible content which under usual conditions will result in rapid decomposition and emissions of odors, creating unacceptable working conditions. Adherence to a daily sailing schedule needs be observed to avoid excessive in-situ decomposition of waste. 1 1 . 4 . 3 P e s t s The waste transfer stations will still be subject to pests such as birds and rodents. Numbers of these can be kept down by improved operation regimes, including site hygiene and regular cleaning of surfaces, minimizing time that putrescible waste is stored, and provision for enclosed storage of such waste. 1 1 . 4 . 4 Effects on traffic The waste transfer station will handle a growing quantity of waste, and therefore increased vehicle movements. This can add to or cause traffic congestion in the vicinity of the stations. The impact will be mitigated by careful planning by WAMCO of waste collection rosters on the island. 1 1 . 4 . 5 Occupational H e a l t h a n d S a f e t y Improved site cleanliness at the transfer stations will reduce exposure to toxins and disease and improve the existing level of occupational health and safety for workers. The operators of these transfer stations

61 shall implement measures following international best practices and the World Bank EHS industry sector guidelines for infrastructure: waste management facilities.

Table 15: Summary of impacts related to operation of the improved facilities

Potential Impact Impacts General Positive, significant, long term Loss of waste during handling Positive, significant, long term Pests Positive, significant, long term Effects on traffic Not significant Air and dust pollution Positive, significant, long term Community health and safety risks Positive, significant, long term Occupational health and safety Positive, significant, long term

1 1 . 5 Global, Transboundary and Cumulative Impacts The proposed improvements will occur within the Greater Malé area at Hulhumalé. However, the improvements in collection, treatment and disposal of waste, which will be facilitated by the transfer station improvements, will reduce the discharge of waste from these islands into the surrounding ocean waters. Capacity building for the EPA will assist in the build-up of capabilities required to further improve and manage waste management facilities throughout the Maldives. 1 1 . 6 Impacts and Mitigation Table 10 summarizes the potential impacts and mitigation measures in relation to location, construction and operation identified in the EIA.

62 Table 16: Environmental Management Plan Responsible for Responsible for Impacts Mitigation Measures Performance Standard Source of Funds Implementation Supervision Pre-Construction Stage General impacts on Provision of information to the public on Completion of disclosure Project PMU - local residents Grievance Redress Mechanism measures as prescribed in the Management GRM Cost Construction Preparation of Contractor's Approval by PMDSC Construction Contractor PMDSC Impacts Environmental Management Plan Cost providing specific detail in relation to chosen construction methods Climate risk and Incorporation of recommendations from Compliant with PMDSC Design cost PMDSC ME vulnerability CRVA into detailed design company quality control mitigation standards Efficiency of Inclusion in design of provisions needed Compliant with PMDSC Design cost DB Contractor; ME operation of the for efficient and high standard of company quality control PMDSC transfer stations operation of the transfer stations, standards including drainage, handling of clinical waste, washing of sites, vehicles and containers and treatment of drain runoff water and water used for washing, effluent management, fire prevention and firefighting measures and site security Sanitation and Inclusion of provisions for canteen, Approval by PMDSC Design cost DB Contractor; ME welfare provisions meeting room and toilet facilities, PMDSC for the including provisions for Administration treatment/discharge of wastewater in building design of the administration building Pests: Birds and Provision in the design of enclosed areas Compliant with PMDSC Project funds DB Contractor; ME Rodents for storage of putrescible waste and of company quality control PMDSC cleaning equipment such as hoses. standards Effects on Traffic Consideration of traffic flows in final Compliant with PMDSC Project funds DB Contractor; ME layout design company quality control PMDSC standards Construction stage impacts Impeding access to Notices to the public, scheduling work No complaints registered via the Construction DB Contractor PMDSC property or that blocks roadways to periods of low GRM in respect of traffic Cost traffic. Co-ordination with any other

63 Responsible for Responsible for Impacts Mitigation Measures Performance Standard Source of Funds Implementation Supervision facilities, or traffic major construction projects taking place impacts, or any such complaints disruption in the vicinity of the transfer station to addressed agree measures such as scheduling of construction traffic to avoid peak vehicle movements occurring at the same time. Noise pollution Providing information to the affected No complaints registered via the Construction DB Contractor PMDSC and vibration persons through direct liaison and via the GRM in respect of noise and Cost local media about the timing and duration vibration, or any such complaints of he works. addressed Construction activities will be limited to normal daylight working hours. A work Noise level not to exceed 70LAeq schedule will be followed. 1hr dBA at construction site. All construction equipment and vehicles will be in good working order with working mufflers and noise suppression. Waste generation All solid waste must be disposed of at a Site free of construction waste on Construction DB Contractor PMDSC from construction landfill or approved disposal site. commissioning. Cost activities Importation of any materials rated as hazardous under the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals to be subject to approval by PMDSC, which will be conditional on stating adequate arrangements for disposal. Release of silt Excavated areas to be rapidly refilled on No instances when silt release is Construction DB Contractor PMDSC completion of works. Use of silt fences uncontrolled Cost around temporary piles of excavated material. Avoid excavation in wet weather to the extent practicable. Water pollution Vehicles and plant are to be maintained Vehicles and construction plant to Construction DB Contractor PMDSC in sound operable condition, free of have at all times at a minimum: Cost leaks. The condition of vehicles and (i) intact and securely fitted equipment will be periodically checked. exhaust pipes and mufflers (ii) operable brakes (iii) no fuel or Contractor to prepare and submit a plan lubricant leaks. Spill kits on site for spill management, including provision at all times

64 Responsible for Responsible for Impacts Mitigation Measures Performance Standard Source of Funds Implementation Supervision of spill kits, training/briefing of workers on procedures on handling spills and allocation of responsibility within the DB Contractor's team for ensuring that spill kits are available and that workers know how to use them. Air and dust Require vehicles and equipment to be Vehicles and construction plant to Construction DB Contractor PMDSC pollution well maintained and tuned and fitted with have at all times at a minimum: Cost exhaust baffles. Apply water to suppress (i) intact and securely fitted dust where needed and sweep to remove exhaust pipes and mufflers (ii) and clear spoil on surfaces. operable brakes (iii) no fuel or lubricant leaks Community health Restriction of access to the transfer Barriers and notices to be in place Construction DB Contractor PMDSC and safety hazards stations. For work at the periphery of the at all times, entrance to sites Cost sites, provide notices to the public actively controlled identifying hazards and erect safety barriers / covers for areas of open excavation

Contractors to adopt the WB EHS Guidelines on Community Health and Safety, particularly those that relate to construction works. Occupational Contractors to appoint health and safety Member of the Contractor’s staff Construction DB Contractor PMDSC health and safety officers to site and to ensure regular nominated as health and safety Cost hazards briefing of construction workforce on officer to be present on site. health and safety issues. Adequate Appropriate protective equipment personal protective equipment to be to each construction operation to provided to the workforce. be worn at all times. Contractors to adopt the WB EHS Guidelines on OHS, particularly those that relate to construction works. Impacts During Operation Risks of loss of O&M training to include instruction on O&M training completed Training budget Implementation ME containers and maintenance of containers, loaders, Operators to have undergone consultants / DB contents cranes and vessels and sound operation training and have licenses to Contractor

65 Responsible for Responsible for Impacts Mitigation Measures Performance Standard Source of Funds Implementation Supervision including licensing of vehicle and plant drive/operate vehicles and operators and restrictions on operation machinery. during stormy weather Pests: Rodents and Maintenance of site cleanliness, Sites to be clean and all Operation Cost WAMCO ME birds and odors minimizing storage time for putrescible putrescible waste enclosed at the waste, provision of enclosures for close of operations each day putrescible waste. Retention of waste Adherence to a daily sailing schedule No cancellations of vessel Operation Cost WAMCO ME awaiting transfer to needs be observed to avoid excessive in- transfers to RWMF except in the the RWMF situ decomposition of waste. case of storms or unavoidable mechanical outage Operator Operators trained to recognize risks and Allocation of responsibility for Operation Cost WAMCO ME occupational health hazards. Personal safety equipment safety standards to a full-time and safety issued and worn. Health and safety member of staff. Appropriate recognized as primary employer protective equipment to each responsibility. construction operation to be worn at all times Operator to adopt the WB EHS Guidelines on OHS for SWM projects. Community Health Operate a security system to restrict Perimeter fence intact and site Construction and WAMCO ME and Safety Hazards access to the public. secure at all times Operation Cost

Operator to adopt the WB EHS Guidelines on Community Health and Safety for SWM projects. Effects on traffic Scheduling of waste collection to Submission of waste collection Operation Cost WAMCO ME night/low traffic hours. schedule to MEE and adherence to it Damage to the Procedures for shutdown and securing of Availability of written procedures Operation Cost WAMCO ME facility and loss of site, vehicles and vessels in the event of for inspection; awareness of staff waste during storm severe storm warnings of such procedure events

66 12 Stakeholder Consultations 1 2 . 1 Environment Protection Agency - EPA As per the ToR, a stakeholder meeting was undertaken with EPA regarding the project 12th January 2020 at EPA at 1100 AM. Below are the main discussion points of the EIA. Consultations were held with the EPA and the summary is outlined below. Participants from EPA:  Ibrahim Naeem, Director General

Summary:  EPA highlighted that provision for future developments should be given when designing the waste transfer station at Hulhumale’.  If trees are intended to be used as a buffer, for landscaping, the sources of trees should follow the guidelines issued by EPA.  Industrial waste and hazardous waste should be handled within the guidelines by WAMCO.  The unloading area in the transfer site should be covered with a shed to prevent rainfall in the containers and ramp producing leachate.  EPA advised to consults relevant utility companies regarding this project. 1 2 . 2 Consultation wi t h Ministry of Environment (ME) The Ministry of Environment had been consulted regarding this project on various occasion since October 2017. Initial concepts for the Hulhumale waste transfer station was shared and discussed with Ministry of Environment on 22 January 2020 at 1400. Participants from EPA:  Ahmed Murthaza, Director General  Ibrahim Zameel, Project Manager  Mohamed Asif, Environment and Social Safeguard Specialist, PMU  Mohamed Abdul Latheef, Civil Engineer  Mohamed Hamdhan, Assistant Project Coordinator

Summary:  ME wanted to maximum use the allocated land for the waste transfer facility in Hulhumale’. The waste transfer center should have parking space to park the waste collection vehicles.  The waste management center should have a storm water management system to prevent the area getting flooded during heavy rain  The waste transfer facility should be able to accommodate the waste collectors working for the waste collection operation at Hulhumalé..  The area should be protected from swell and high wave action related flooding. 1 2 . 3 Male’ City Council As per the ToR, a stakeholder meeting was undertaken with Male’ City Council regarding the project on 4th July 2020 at City Council at 1230. Below are the main discussion points of the EIA. Participants from EPA:  Shamaau Shareef, Deputy Mayor  Adam Shareef, Councillor

Summary:  City council is aware of this project and has been part of it since the land allocation for this project.

Page 67  They have concerns about the location of the project since it is on the face of the Hulhle- Hulhumlae link road. Though they are aware that that this is the only land area available and provided by HDC.  City Council had questions about how waste will be transferred and how long waste will be kept at the station before being transferred. Official from Ministry of Environment that participated in the meeting assured that the waste will be transferred daily. Initially it was proposed to transfer the waste using landing crafts but after the Male’-Hulhule’ bridge project and upcoming Male’-Thilafushi link project, ME is open for transport on land depending on the cost and other factors like availability of vehicles.  City Council highlighted that Hulhumale Phase 2 will be resided soon and the population projected in Phase 2 is very high. A separate waste management center/transfer station may be required for Phase 2.  City council underlined that it is very important to provide separate bins to segregate waste at the station.

1 2 . 4 Greater Male’ Industrial Zone Limited (GMIZL) To conduct consultation with the GMIZL, a letter was sent along with project brief via email to GMIZL to undertake the online consultation or to provide us with the concerns and opinions based on the information letter and project brief. GMIZL informed that they do not have any comments or suggestions regarding the proposed project.

1 2 . 5 Waste Management Cooperation Limited (WAMCO) Participants from EPA:  Ahmed Shafiu, Facilities Manager  Ismail Ubaidh, Facilities Manager Summary: WAMCO had been consulted on various occasion regarding waste management project for the greater Male’ area. Hulhumale’ waste transfer station is part of the waste management system that is being developed for the greater Male’ region  Waste is collected from the households, business and commercial establishment in Hulhumale’  The waste transfer area in the waste transfer deck need to be covered from rain  A proper waste management and transfer facility is urgently needed for Hullumale’ to remove the waste collected to transport to Thilafushi.

1 2 . 6 Ministry of Transport and Civil Aviation To conduct consultation with Ministry of Transport, a letter was sent via email to Ministry of Transport to undertake the online consultation or to provide us with the concerns and opinions based on the information letter and project brief. Letter was initially sent on 16th March 2020 and a follow up email was sent on 11th June 2020. Letter and email thread attached as an annex. We have not received any comments or response from Ministry of Transport to this date. Several attempts were also made from phone to contact Transport Ministry.

Page 68 1 2 . 7 Ministry of National Planning , H o u s i n g , a n d Infrastructure (M N PHI) To conduct consultation with MNHPI, a letter was sent via email MNHPI to undertake the online consultation or to provide us with the concerns and opinions based on the information letter and project brief. Letter was initially sent on 16th March 2020 and a follow up email was sent on 11th June 2020. We have not received any comments from MNPHI to this date. 1 2 . 8 Housing Development Corporation (HDC) To conduct consultation with the HDC, a letter was sent via email to HDC to undertake the online consultation or to provide us with the concerns and opinions based on the information letter and project brief. Below are the responses received from HDC regarding the project. Participants from HDC:  Shahid Ahmed Waheed, Senior Urban Designer / Planner, HDC, ([email protected]) Summary:  HDC suggests ensuring the aesthetics of the outer boundary of the project site as it is on the main entrance road to Hulhumale. HDC recommends to plant trees on the buffer zone in front of the site.  HDC raised concerns regarding the odour and states that odour from the facility must be contained and must not be a nuisance to the adjacent sites and pedestrians.  HDC aims to sort out waste at the household level and respectively the provision needs to be provided for such in Hulhumale' waste transfer center.  The vehicle movement near and inside the waste management center must not obstruct other vehicle movements of Boashimaahigun / Midhiligasmagu. 1 2 . 9 Adjacent plot owners

1 2 . 9 . 1 MWSC As per the ToR, a stakeholder meeting was undertaken with MWSC regarding the project on 1st July 2020 via Microsoft Teams at 10:00. Below are the main discussion points of the EIA. Participants from MWSC:  Mohamed Faisal  Ahmed Hamad  Mohamed Ali  Ismail Ibrahim  Mariyam Najath Ahmed Summary: Below are the main concerns / suggestions raised by MWSC officials.  MWSC plans to build a STP on the west side the MWSC plot. The current waste transfer facility is proposed in this location. This has been discussed with HDC previously and HDC informed MWSC that a 10m buffer will be left between MWSC site and Waste Transfer Station (WTS) site. MWSC want to make sure if this is incorporated in the current WTS concept.  According to MWSC, their Hulhumale’ center is going to be the main MWSC branch in the near future. In Hulhumale site, degasifiers will be located on the west side of the current facility and will also be expanded in this area in future. Degasification is a process which utilizes the surrounding air for its degasification process, hence if the surrounding air is polluted it will be taken into water during treatment. This will be a huge health risk.

Page 69  Therefore, MWSC are concerned with airborne contamination and water quality issues such as contamination from air bourne bacteria were mentioned.  Another concern was the duration the waste will be kept in the center before being transferred, as odour would be an issue especially during the south-west monsoon.  Since the public are allowed to dump waste in to the WTS, MWSC was concerned about the odour and airborne contamination that could occur if the waste is not transferred in enclosed vehicles.  Furthermore, insects/pests issue was a main concern of MWSC. Their suggestion is that a waste transfer station should not be next to a water production area.  MWSC has experienced problems of odour and insects/pests from a waste dump site few years before as open burning of waste was done on the site east to the MWSC site before the Hulhumale-Hulhule link road project.  There is a bottling plant on the north side of the MWSC site. Therefore, MWSC informs that FDA requirements need to be met during the design phase as there are concerns if odour and pests reach the bottling plant, if a WTS is built near the MWSC facility  Due to the above mentioned issues/concerns, MWSC is concerned about the public view if a WTS is built near the MWSC facility.  Leachate from the waste handling surface was another concern. They inquired if the leachate would be disposed into existing sewerage system and if there will be any leachate from industrial waste.  In additional to this, MWSC enquired about the water demand/request at the site as transfer vehicles will be washed at the site.  MWSC informed that the workshop at the WTS should have an oil trap and filtration for discharge water as per MWSC standards and established guidelines as oil cannot be disposed into the sewer network.  Share the admin building design before finalizing so that MWSC can make recommendations for the design which will ensure smooth provisions of water and sewer services to the building at the end of the construction stage.  Therefore, MWSC wants to clarify responses from the proponent regarding the concerns they raised. Concerns are summarized in the table below.

Concerns from MWSC Response from Proponent Is there enough space left between MWSC There was no consultation with the Ministry Hulhumale site and the proposed WTS station to during the site location of STP. Therefore, as per build a STP? HDC previously informed 10m our concept drawings, there is no space available zone will be allocated for this purpose between both sites to build an STP.

What is the proponents plan to deal with the The waste collection truck hauling directly to odour and potential air contamination / air bourne into closed containers. Therefore, would be pathogens? minimal exposure.

How long waste will be kept in the WTS before The containers will be covered, and waste will be it is transferred? Will the containers be covered? transferred frequently on daily basis and continuously to avoid potential air contamination.

Will there be any problems with pests and Special measures will be taken place for insects? This could be an issue to the MWSC site continuous pest control. As the waste will be especially the bottling plant which require certain stored inside leakproof containers and enclosed, standards to operate. we do not foresee any issues with pests and insects. There will be no open burning of waste.

MWSC is concerned about the public view if the A public consultation will be conducted to

Page 70 Concerns from MWSC Response from Proponent water they use daily is produced from a facility inform the public with details of the waste next to a waste handling site. management system to be established. This may minimize the public pressure and concerns. It is expected that MWSC conducts continuous water testing in accordance with EPA’s standard and testing protocols. Public can be ensured the safety of water by publishing the test reports by both MWSC and EPA.

If the floor used to handle the waste will be Waste will not be handled directly on the floor on washed, what are the methods used to dispose any circumstance. However, some spillages are these leachates? Runoff from floors at the times foreseen during the truck hauling into container. of cleaning should go through oil trap before it These spillages will be cleaned promptly. Oil can be discharged into our sewerage network traps can be considered as a requirement by the MWSC.

Will there be any oil traps in the workshop area? Yes, there will be oil trap and filtration Oil cannot be disposed directly into the sewer mechanisms in place for the workshop. network.

Share the admin building design before finalizing MWSC will be consulted in every single stage of so MWSC can make recommendations for the the project, both designing phase and design which will ensure smooth provisions of construction phase. The Ministry ensures the water and sewer services to the building at the admin building along with all other structures in end of the construction stage. the site will be constructed as per the local rules and regulations as well as international standards are followed, hence there will be no complications later for the provisions of water and sewer services.

1 2 . 9 . 2 STELCO To conduct consultation with STELCO, an email was sent to undertake the online consultation or to provide us with the concerns and opinions based on the information letter and project brief. Email thread is attached as an annex. We have not received any comments or response from STELCO to this date. Several attempts were also made from phone to contact STELCO. 1 2 . 1 0 Consultation with the public Field visits were made on February 2020 to consult the public who are in the proximity of the Waste Transfer Station. The waste transfer station is secluded and is proposed to be located in the industrial area of Hulhumale’ away from residential areas. The transfer station area has a perimeter wall and trees would act as a buffer when the facility is operational. The public consultations were conducted through individual interviews after giving an introduction of the project. The interviewees were briefed on the regional waste management project for zone 3 and the necessity of a transfer station in each island. As part of the consultation, public was informed of the impacts and difficulties that may occur from the Waste Transfer Station during the construction and operational stage and the consultants are therefore seeking community’s views and concerns on various aspects of the project concept designs shared with them. Several concerns were raised with regard to various aspects of the Waste Transfer Station location, design, and operation. The participants of the consultations included women of the total consulted of different age groups that were interviewed.

Page 71 Findings of consultations with general public Most of the people who were consulted does not know the location where the waste transfer station has been proposed. However, when they are explained about the location, all of them know the location as it is in the road which people see as they drive into Hulhumale’ from the bridge. The public generally feel the location is good to locate the waste transfer facility as it is located far from the residential area of Hulhumale’. The public who were consulted noted that Hulhumale’ needs an area to manage waste which currently does not exist. Most of them felt that the proposed project would help improve the management of waste at Hulhumale’. Some participant noted that during the construction of the waste transfer area on the island would have a noise and dust issue for the people living close to the area. Some participants who were consulted noted that whether it is a good idea to locate the waste transfer area next to the MWSC site which produce water and bottled water. They were informed that HDC had no alternative but to give this land to develop the waste transfer station at Hulhumale as there is no other vacant land that is larger enough to build this facility. The following are the names of the people consulted. Table 17: List of people consulted No. Name Gender Age group Address/ Designation 1 Ahmed Murthaza M Director General, Ministry of Environment 2 Mohamed Asif M Environment Safeguard Specialist, Ministry of Environment 3 Mohamed Hamdhan M Project Coordinator, Ministry of Environment 4 Shahid Ahmed Waheed M Senior Urban Designer / Planner, HDC 5 Ahmed Shafiu M Facilities Manager, WAMCO 6 Ismail Ubaidh M Facilities Manager, Male’, WAMCO 7 Ahmed Aiman Shareef M Manager, Planning and Projects, GMIZL 8 Mohamed Faisal M MWSC 9 Mariyam Najath Ahmed F Architect, MWSC 10 Ahmed Hamad M MWSC 11 Mohamed Ali M MWSC 12 Ismail Ibrahim M MWSC 13 Shamaau Shareef M Deputy Mayor, Male’ City Council 14 Adam Shareef M Councilor, Male’ City Council 15 Hassan Shameem M 45-50 5A, Noca Building, HIthigas Magu 16 Maaz Shareef M 40-50 S-507, One Avenue 17 Amir Musthafa M 35-40 305 Amin Avenue Teak, Reethi Gas Magu 18 Saudhulla M 45-50 89-G01 19 Naseema Mooasa M 50-55 S-405, One Avenue, Fithoroonuge 20 Najma F 45-50 89-G01 21 Mariyma Minha F 25-30 G03-89, Asurumaa Hingun 22 Mizna Qasim F 40-50 S-507, One Avenue 23 Mohamed Misbaah M 20-25 89-G03, Asurumaa Hingun 24 Ahmed Fayaz M 45-50 Coral Vil 9, 4C, Chambeylee Magu 25 Amira F 35-40 89-G01, Chambeylee Magu 26 Mizna Mohamed F 35-40 7A1 Rain Crest Moonima Magu 27 Mohamed Firaaz M 40-45 7A1 Rain Crest, Moonima Magu 28 Ms. Shahina Ali F Executive Director, Parley Maldives

Page 72 13 Alternatives EIA Regulation requires alternatives to be suggested and therefore two alternatives have been suggested in addition to the no project alternative. These alternatives are discussed below. 1 3 . 1 No Project Option The ‘No Action’ option considers that no development will take place on the site allocated for the Hulhumale Waste Transfer Station. Under the “no project” scenario, there will be no means of increasing the handling capacity of the existing waste handling facilities to meet the requirements imposed by the growing volumes of waste, projected to rise at current rapid levels. This may lead to excessive on-site storage, in conditions that allow increased loss of waste to the sea. Waste would be piled high on a barge about to depart to Thilafushi. Some of the uncompacted, uncontained waste falls into the sea either at the temporary transfer station or Thilafushi harbor or during the crossing. Limited space for maintenance of vehicles and provision of the workshop area, and separation of recyclable factions will remain haphazard. 1 3 . 2 Alternative analysis matri x For this project, an alternative analysis was carried out on the basis of various biophysical and socioeconomic parameters including the following using an analysis matrix:  Technical feasibility,  Economic viability and  Environmental acceptability of the project and  Social benefits Based on the above four factors, an alternative analysis matrix was developed with scores given for each factor from 1 to 5. This analysis provides information about the advantages and disadvantages of each alternative considered with regard to its technical, economic and environmental factors. The purpose of this matrix is to obtain a favorable implementation of alternatives proposed by considering alternatives in terms of site selection, design and operational methods, the project scale and timing of project. The total for all factors gives an overall score for a given alternative. The highest total score provides the most desirable and preferred alternatives and vice versa. 1 3 . 2 . 1 Alternative 1 (A1): Open System The design of the transfer stations envisages the use of containers, to receive waste from delivery trucks and transfer it to vessels. An alternative to this is an “open” system where trucks are offloaded mechanically onto the concrete floor, or they tip the waste directly onto awaiting landing craft at the ramp. The use of containers however provides a much higher level of control, and greatly limits the risk of waste being lost to the sea during the loading processes and offloading at Thilafushi. The concept design envisages separate bays to receive wet waste, dry waste and recycles. This enables dry waste to be pre-sorted and pressed into bales for temporary storage on site or direct shipping to a user, if such requirement arises. The system relies on separated streams for collection and enables a greater level of recycling and reuse of waste. 1 3 . 2 . 2 Alternative 2 (A2): C i v i c A m e n i t y In this option, it is foreseen the transport of the waste from Hulhumale in a direct haul (without additional transfer) to Male waste transfer station over the bridge. The waste collection trucks which collects waste from the households, industrial establishment and commercial outlets will transport collected waste to the Male’ Waste Transfer Station. In this option, the allocated area for the waste management in Hulhumale would be foreseen as a pilot civic amenity facility which has a parking lots and used for maintenance purposes. The area will be consisting mainly of an asphalted area, an entrance gate with a small entrance control building, shed constructions for containers, sheds for operation equipment, miscellaneous parking lots and a repairing

Page 73 and maintenance building (with social facilities) and some small auxiliary infrastructure (landscaping etc.).

Figure 27: Picture of a civic amenity The advantage of this option is that a waste transfer station would not be developed next to the MWSC water production and supply center at Hulhumale’. The area would collect only dry and odourless components which would have no significant impact on the adjacent land users. Similay the area will not attract any birds, which becomes a hazard so the aerodrome at Velana International Airport. Disadvantage of this option is the more waste collection vehicles and man power would be needed to operate the system as the waste collection trucks must make relative long journeys from Hulhumale to Malé waste transfer area to discharge the waste onto the landing crafts. 1 3 . 3 Alternative 3 (A3): Developing an Island Waste Management Centre (IWMC) This is an alternative to waste transfer, as it looks to dispose of waste in Hulhumale’ without having to transport it to Thilafushi. Waste can be disposed by incinerated or more environmentally detrimental open-air burning that is carried out in some IWMCs across the country at present. There is also a heavy requirement of land for this alternative, as space is required for landfill, as well as stockpiling of waste until they can be destroyed. Thus the land requirement is greater than that of the waste transfer station. 1 3 . 4 Alternative Analysis Score The following table outlines the results of the alternative analysis scores calculated for this project. The scores are given from 1 to 5, 1 being the least and 5 the most desirable. Table 18: Alternative analysis scores No Alternatives proposed Technical feasibility Economic viability Environme ntally acceptable Social benefits Total scores A0 Proposed development 5 2 5 4 16 A1 Open System 1 5 1 1 8 A2 Civic Amenity 4 4 4 2 14 A3 Developing an IWMC 1 3 1 1 6 Based on the analysis, the proposed development has the highest total score, and is thus the most viable option.

Page 74 1 3 . 5 Preferred Alternative The preferred method and design for this project is to implement the project as proposed. The proponent’s plan is to develop a waste transfer station to transport the waste generated in Hulhumale to the waste management site at K. Thilafushi. 1 3 . 5 . 1 Mitigation measures for the Preferred Alternative The following mitigation measures are proposed for the preferred alternative.  Good construction practice and ensuring that the construction works are done in accordance to measures proposed in this report.  Implementing an appropriate and environmentally sound temporary waste transfer method during the construction of the facility using the existing waste collection and transport system. For further details for mitigation measures, refer to the impact and mitigation measure table of this report.

Page 75 14 Environmental Management Plan 1 4 . 1 O b j e c t i v e This Environmental Management Plan (EMP) sets out the needs for environmental management of waste transfer station at Hulhumale in terms of institutional responsibilities to ensure mitigation and monitoring takes place during the pre-construction, construction and operation phases, meeting the requirements of the Government of the Maldives and the IsDB SPS. EMP is the document through which mitigation measures are proposed following the assessment of the impacts of a project. The EMP sets out the mitigation measures to these impacts, monitoring plan and institutional arrangements that need to be observed during construction and operation of the waste transfer station. The budgets to cover the cost of implementing the EMP, including costs associated with implementing the GRM, are also provided. The purpose of the EMP is to ensure that the activities are undertaken in a responsible, non-detrimental manner with the objectives of: (i) providing a proactive, feasible, and practical working tool to enable the measurement and monitoring of environmental performance on-site; (ii) guiding and controlling the implementation of findings and recommendations of the environmental assessment conducted for the project; (iii) detailing specific actions deemed necessary to assist in mitigating the environmental impact of the project; and (iv) ensuring that safety recommendations are complied with. A copy of the Environmental Management and Monitoring Plan must be kept on work sites at all times. This Environmental Management and Monitoring Plan will be further reviewed and updated during implementation. Environmental Management and Monitoring Plan will be made binding on all contractors operating on the site and will be included in the contractual clauses. Non-compliance with, or any deviation from, the conditions set out in this document constitutes a failure in compliance.

For civil works, the contractor will be required to (i) establish an operational system for managing environmental impacts (ii) carry out all of the monitoring and mitigation measures set forth in the Environmental Management and Monitoring Plan; and (iii) implement any corrective or preventative actions set out in safeguards monitoring reports that the employer will prepare from time to time to monitor implementation of this EIA and Environmental Management and Monitoring Plan. The contractor shall allocate a budget for compliance with these Environmental Management and Monitoring Plan measures, requirements and actions. 1 4 . 2 Institutional Arrangement Implementation Arrangements. The executing agency is the Ministry of Finance (MOF). The implementing agency is the Ministry of Environment (ME) which establish a project management unit (PMU) comprising officials and staff from ME. The project steering committee chaired by Minister, through the ME, will provide overall guidance and strategic directions to the project. The PMU will be supported by a project management, design and supervision consultant (PMDSC), a professional engineering and management consulting firm. PMDSC will assist in the delivery of the different project components, which include the design and construction of transfer station. PMDSC will act as MOE’s representative during the design and build period. The PMU will also be supported by a public awareness and community capacity building (PACCB) consultant, a consulting firm that will help generate awareness and strengthen skills in waste collection, segregation, compositing, recycling, and O&M targeting the poor and women, including community awareness campaign for strengthening disaster risk reduction and climate change readiness.

Project Management Unit. MOE has set up a Project Management Unit (PMU) at its Waste Department. The PMU will oversee the implementation of the project by the Contractor. PMU staff comprise staff as follows: (i) Project Director (part-time, Director General of Department), (ii) Project Manager, (iii) Procurement Specialist, (iv) Finance Specialist, (v) Safeguard Specialist, (vi) Civil Engineer, (vii) Information, Education and Communication (IEC) Specialist, and (viii) administrative

Page 76 assistant. The Project Director (part-time) is empowered to take official decisions, while remaining PMU staff (full time) are recruited from the market. The PMU will be supported by the PMDSC and PACCB consultants for project management, capacity building, monitoring, and technical design and supervision support. Terms of Reference for PMU Environment Officer. Key tasks and responsibilities of the PMU environment officer are as follows: (a) confirm existing EIA/EMPs are updated based on detailed designs, and that new EIA /EMPs are prepared in accordance with the EARF and subproject selection criteria related to safeguards. (b) confirm whether EIA /EMPs are included in bidding documents and civil works contracts. (c) provide oversight on environmental management aspects of subprojects and ensure EMPs are implemented by island councils and contractors (d) establish a system to monitor environmental safeguards of the project, including monitoring the indicators set out in the monitoring plan of the EMP. (e) facilitate and confirm overall compliance with all government rules and regulations regarding site and environmental clearances, as well as any other environmental requirements (e.g., location clearance certificates, environmental clearance certificates, etc.), as relevant; e. supervise and provide guidance to the island councils to properly carry out the environmental monitoring as per the EARF. (f) review, monitor, and evaluate the effectiveness with which the EMPs are implemented and recommend necessary corrective actions to be taken as necessary. (g) consolidate monthly environmental monitoring reports from PMU and submit semi-annual monitoring reports. (h) ensure timely disclosure of final EIA/EMPs in locations and form accessible to the public. (i) address any grievances brought about through the grievance redress mechanism in a timely manner. (j) With assistance from the PMDSC, provide orientation to PMU staff in environmental management arrangements for the project. (k) Provide inputs to progress reports and the project completion report. (l) Visit worksites during construction and provide guidance relating to supervision and compliance monitoring; and (m) Visit completed works and assist with establishing environmental monitoring procedures for the operation phase of the improved infrastructure. Terms of Reference for PMDSC Safeguard Consultants. The Social, Environmental and Occupational Health and Safety Expert in PMDSC will: (a) Ensure compliance with safeguard requirements. (b) Provide guidance on safeguards and issue instructions to the Contractors. (c) Assist in obtaining necessary permissions and complying with statutory requirements. (d) Ensure EIA and EMP is included in the bid and contract document and such items are included in BOQ. (e) Review the Contractor’s Environmental Management Plan (CEMP) for adequacy in terms of compliance with the requirements of the EMP and instruct amendments and additions as necessary. (f) Monitor and ensure compliance with SPS and contractors’ implementation of the EMPs. (g) Facilitate meaningful consultations and carry out disclosure of safeguard documents. (h) Assist in GRM implementation. (i) Develop regular safeguards trainings (see indicative institutional capacity development program) to ensure PMU, island councils and other stakeholders have common understanding of SPS requirements during all phases of project implementation. Terms of Reference for tThe Contractor. The contractor will have the following roles and responsibilities: (a) obtain all statutory clearances prior to commencement of civil works.

Page 77 (b) complies with all applicable legislation, is conversant with the requirements of the EMP, and briefs staff about the requirements of same. (c) prepare a Contractor’s EMP based on the EMP of this EIA and submit to PMDSC for approval. (d) carry out all of the monitoring and mitigation measures set forth in the approved CEMP. (e) ensures any sub-contractors/ suppliers, who are utilized within the context of the contract, comply with the environmental requirements of the CEMP/EMP. The Contractor will be held responsible for non-compliance on their behalf. (f) implement any corrective or preventative actions set out in safeguards monitoring reports that the executing agency or implementing agency will prepare from time to time to monitor implementation of this EIA, EMP, and CEMP. (g) provides environmental awareness training to staff. (h) bears the costs of any damages/ compensation resulting from non-adherence to the EMP or written site instructions. (i) conducts all activities in a manner that minimizes disturbance to directly affected residents and the public in general, and foreseeable impacts on the environment. (j) ensures that its staff or engineers are informed in a timely manner of any foreseeable activities that will require input from the environment and safety officers (or equivalent); (k) appoints one full time environment and safety officer (or equivalent) for implementation of EMP, community liaising, reporting and grievance redressal on day to day basis; and (l) receives complaints/grievances from the public, immediately implements the remedial measures and reports to the PMU and PMDSC.

Page 78 15 Environmental Monitoring 1 5 . 1 Introduction Monitoring is the systematic collection of information over a long period of time. It involves the measuring and recording of environmental variables associated with the development impacts. Monitoring is needed to: (a) Compare predicted and actual impacts. (b) Assess the effectiveness of mitigation measures. (c) Obtain information about responses of receptors to impacts. (d) Enforce and ensure legal standards and statutory requirements are complied with. (e) Prevent and take remedial measures for negative environmental issues resulting from inaccurate predictions. (f) Minimize errors in future assessments and impact predictions. (g) Make future assessments more efficient. (h) Provide information for environmentally responsible project management; and (i) Improve the EIA and monitoring process. Impact and mitigation monitoring will be carried out to compare predicted and actual impacts occurring from project activities and determine the efficiency of the mitigation measures. Monitoring will be targeted at assessing project-related impacts on the physical and biological resources, economic development, and/or socio-cultural resources including communities surrounding the project site. Table 19 below show the Environmental Monitoring Plan covering the construction and operational phases of the project. Costs for the monitoring activities shall be borne by either the Contractor or PMU depending on whose responsibilities these activities are as indicated in the EMP.

Page 79 Table 19: Environmental Monitoring Plan Parameters to be Means of Implementation Activity Location Monitored Monitoring Frequency Responsibility Construction Stage

Ambient air Pre- TSP, PM10, PM2.5, ambient air quality Quarterly WAMCO (PMU quality sampling identified SOx, NOx monitoring using to check and monitoring monitoring appropriate compliance) stations at instruments; and Hulhumale visual inspection

Noise level Pre- Day time and Ambient noise Once prior to WAMCO (PMU monitoring identified nighttime noise level monitoring start of to check monitoring levels dB(A) equipment construction compliance) stations at works, Hulhumale Quarterly during construction Groundwater Pre- Oil and Grease, Grab sampling Quarterly WAMCO (PMU quality identified Fecal Coliform, from deep wells. to check monitoring sampling Presence of compliance) well, petroleum and other chemicals use in the baseline data. Occupational Construction All occupation Visual inspection, Quarterly WAMCO (PMU health and safety work site, health and safety Interview with to check measure measures as workers at sites and compliance) implementation specified in the occupants at camp EMP sites Operation Stage

Noise level Pre- Day time and Ambient noise Quarterly WAMCO (PMU monitoring identified nighttime noise level monitoring during normal to check monitoring levels dB(A) equipment construction compliance) stations at activities Hulhumale

Groundwater Pre- Oil and Grease, Grab sampling Quarterly WAMCO (PMU quality monitoring identified Fecal Coliform, from deep wells. to check sampling Presence of compliance) well, petroleum and other chemicals use in the baseline data. Occurrence of Hulhumale All occupation Visual inspection, Quarterly WAMCO (PMU floating waste beaches health and safety Interview with to check measures as community compliance) specified in the EMP

Page 80 Parameters to be Means of Implementation Activity Location Monitored Monitoring Frequency Responsibility Occupational Vicinity of All community Visual inspection, Weekly WAMCO (PMU health and safety TS health and safety Interview with to check measure measures as locals. compliance) implementation specified in the EMP

1 5 . 2 R e p o r t i n g EMP compliance monitoring will be undertaken by the PMU, with support of the PMDSC. Effects will be monitored by means of community feedback and laboratory testing. PMU will prepare and submit reports to IsDB and EPA on a semi-annual basis during and immediate after construction. Semi-annual reports during operations are to be prepared by WAMCO. To facilitate monitoring and enable responses to emerging issues, monthly reports will be prepared by the PMU and submitted to ME and EPA. The monitoring report shall include details of the site, means of data collection and analysis, quality control measures, sampling frequency and monitoring analysis and details of methodologies and protocols followed.

Page 81 16 Conclusion The EIA of Hulhumale Waste Transfer Station has been prepared based on review of technical specifications of the project as included in the design document, primary and secondary information from the site and its surroundings. The Hulhumale Waste Transfer Station is located in the greater Male’ region which will be the most active area in the operations of the zone 3 regional waste management plan. It is estimated that 27Mg/day of waste is generated from households and 21 27Mg/day of waste as construction and demolition waste. The population and the amount of waste consumption per person is foreseen to increase. During the construction phase and operational phase regular monitoring should be undertaken as highlighted in the report. Proponent is responsible to conduct the monitoring as proposed in the report. The overall finding of the EIA is that the project will result in significant environmental benefits, as it is conceived and designed to address major environmental issues associated with existing difficulties in waste handling and transfer and the rapidly growing volumes of waste that are projected in coming decades. It will not have significant adverse environmental impacts and potential adverse impacts are manageable through the effective implementation of the EMP.

Page 82 17 References

CDE. (2019). ESIA for the Proposed Sewage Treatment Plant in Hulhumale’. Chenda Deng, R. T. (2017). Assessing Groundwater Availability of the Maldives under Future Climate Conditions: Future Groundwater Availability of Maldives. Hydrological Processes, 31(19), 3334-3349. Department of National Planning. (2009). Statistical Year Book. Male: DNP. Dr Clark, S. (2001). Coastal Management and Coastal Marine Biodiversity Report – Draft PDF- B project preparation), Conservation and Sustainable Use of Biodiversity Associated with Coral Reefs of the Maldives. EPA. (2015). DESIGN CRITERIA AND TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS FOR CONVENTIONAL GRAVITY SEWERAGE SYTEMS. Male', Republic of Maldives: Environmental Protection Agency. Evans, P. (2002). Strategy for Solid Waste Management in Vaavu and Baa Atoll. Republic of Maldives. Falkland, T. (2000). Report on Groundwater Investigations, . Male': Ministry of Atolls Administration. Homavazir. (2001). Waste Characterisation Study Komandoo Island, Atoll Development for Sustainable Livelihoods Project. UNDP. Jameel, A. (2007). Developing a Disaster Profile for Maldives, A thesis for the master’s degree. Christchurch, New Zealand: University of Canterbury. Maniku, H. A. (1990). Changes in the Topography of Maldives: Male', Forum of Writers on Environment of Maldives. MEE. (2012). EIA for Construction and Operation North Regional Waste Management Facility at R. Vandhoo. Malé: Ministry of Environment and Energy. MEE. (2016). Second National Communication of the Maldives to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change. Malé: inistry of Environment and Energy. MEE. (2017). State of the Environment 2016. Male': Ministry of Environment and Energy and Energy. MEE. (2018). Feasibility Study for an Integrated Solid Waste Management System for Zone 3 (including Greater Malé) and Design of the Regional Waste Management Facility at Thilafushi. Male': Ministry of Environment and Energy. MEE. (2020). EIA for the establishment of Island Waste Management Center in K. Villingili. Male': Ministry of Environment. MEE. (2020). EIA for the proposed solid waste management facility at Thilafushi, Kaafu Atoll Maldives. Male': Ministry of Environment. Ministry of Home Affairs, Housing and the Environment. (2001). Successful Solid Waste Management Systems of the Maldives. Male': Ministry of Home Affairs, Housing and the Environment. Ministry of Planning and National Development. (2006). Analytical Report of Population and Housing Census. Male': Ministry of Planning and National Development.

Page 83

24 People who have assisted in the preperation of this report

Chapter Page People who EIA registration Signature number assisted in data number (only collection and for those report writing registered consultants)

Introduction 17 Ahmed Jameel EIA P07/07

Project Description 27 Ahmed Jameel EIA P07/07

Project Setting (Legislative 19 Abdul Aleem EIA P03/2019 section)

Abdul Aleem EIA P03/2019 Existing 41 Environment Ibrahim Faiz EIA P05/2017

Ahmed Jameel EIA P07/07 Impact and 57 Mitigation Ibrahim Faiz EIA P05/2017

Ahmed Jameel EIA P07/07 Stakeholder 67 Consultations Ibrahim Faiz EIA P05/2017

Monitoring 77 Ahmed Jameel EIA P07/07

Recommendations 83 Ahmed Jameel EIA P07/07 and conclusion

Page 86 19 Acknowledgements Various people have assisted the consulting team in preparing this report, name and their designations are listed below. Water Solutions would like to thank their support and assistance provided in completion of this report. 1- Ahmed Jameel, B. Eng (Environmental), MSc – Environmental (EIA P07/2007) 2- Ibrahim Faiz, Bsc, MSc – Environmental Management (EIA P05/2015) 3- Yumin Naseem, Bsc (Hons) – Environmental Science 4- Mohamed Umar, Bsc – Environmental Management

Page 86 Annex 1: Terms of Reference

Page 87

Annex 2: Scaled map of the transfer station design

Page 88 Incinerator

Container

Container Container Container

Container

6 Container Container Container 5 9 Fuel tank

Container

Container 8

Legend: +0,00 1 Entrance gate and Security check

2 Weighbridge and Office container +3,64 3 Transfer area

+3,64 4 Management Building

5 Fuel tank station +3,60 6 Storage area for replacement containers +3,60

22.48 7 Parking for employes

+3,60 8 Workshop building

9 Grease separator +0,00 +3,59 10 Parking lots for garbage collection trucks etc. 3 48.72 Length: +3,50 l = 3,00 m 11 Civic amenity area +3,32 +3,59 6% +3,50

Length: 6% Length: l = 44,00 m l = 3,00 m Fence

+3,32 7.14% 11 +3,59

Container Length: +3,50 l = 3,00 m Proposed Waste Transfer+3,32 Site Container 6% Length: l = 44,00 m

3.50 Container 9.52%

P Container

+0,00

P P P P 10

Length: 5.00 l = 44,00 m P +0,18 7.14% 6% Length: l = 3,00 m

5.00 P +0,00

+0,18 4

Length:

l = 3,00 m 6% P

+0,00

P P +0,00

2 P

3.50

5.00 +0,00

5.00

+0,00

7.00 1

Water Solutions Pvt Ltd Kocks Consult GmbH 1st Floor, Ma.Fas eri, Ameenee Magu, Male' 20205, Republic of Maldives Tel: +960 334 1643 / +960 330 1643 Fax: +960 333 1643 Email: [email protected] Name Date Designed Kasdarli October 2019 Drafted Papadopoulos October 2019 Checked Kasdarli October 2019 Project No. 213 - 78559

Client Ministry of Environment and Energy

Project Title Hulhumale Transfer station

Design phase Preliminary Concept Design Contents Transfer station - Layout Scale 1 : 200 Drawing No. 1.1.1 Paper 780 x 1020 Front View

Side View Annex 3: Land Approvals Documents

Page 89

Annex 4: Methodologies used

Page 90 1 . 1 Introduction

The annex describes detail methodologies used to collect data on the existing environment for EIA studies in the Maldives. For EIA studies in the Maldives, various methodologies are used and the type and methods vary for different projects. Almost all projects will utilize some general data collection methodologies in combination of various other methods. The following section outlines the data collection methodologies that are used in Maldives and their description.

1 . 2 General Methodologies of Data Collection

In this method, the condition of the existing environment is analyzed using appropriate scientific methods. The environmental components of the study area are focused for terrestrial, marine and coastal environment depending on the specific projects. In general, for any project that requires the study of the marine environment, the marine environment of the island is studied including the coral reef and the lagoon. Focus is given on specific areas of the island’s reef which is expected to have the greatest impact as a result of the proposed project. Coastal environmental data collection involves mapping the shoreline, taking beach profiles from selected locations, identifying and mapping costal defense structures and assessing the coastal environment for erosion or accretion. Terrestrial data collection usually includes creating a terrestrial map of the island or a specific area.

1 . 3 Mapping and Location Identification

The island, lagoon, reef or specific areas of islands or a project site is mapped, including shore line, vegetation line, reef lines, existing mature trees, coastal defense structures or other significant topographic features. Mapping is undertaken using hand held differential GPS and available aerial photos. The location of data collection sites are marked using handheld GPS. These data collection points includes marine water sampling locations, marine survey locations, existing groynes and sea walls, mature trees, breakwaters, protected or archaeological sites, erosion prone areas, sand spits, beach rocks etc.

1 . 4 Marine Environment Surveys

Marine environmental surveys were conducted to collect data on key environmental components (i.e. the coral reef system and the lagoon), that will be impacted due to the project. Four methods are primarily used to collect data, namely:  Line Intercept transects (LIT’s)  Detail photo quadrate analysis,  Fish census and  Visual observations.

Purpose of the survey is to define and establish marine environmental baseline conditions for impact evaluation during and after a project. Surveys are based on standard marine environmental surveys so that they can be repeatedly carried out to monitor and record changes and assess possible impacts on the marine environment from the proposed work activities. Surveys include quantitative and qualitative methods. In addition, photos are taken along the reef survey sites and the length of the lagoon.

1 . 5 Line Intercept Transects (LIT)

Line Intercept Transect (LIT) surveys are carried out to assess the benthic types and species at the survey sites. This method uses life form categories to assess the benthic sessile community of reefs and it is possible to incorporate taxonomic data as well. LIT surveys can be used to evaluate the community structure of corals in terms of species composition and

Annex: Methodology - Page 2 diversity patterns in different zones on a reef. LIT method also provides a rapid estimate of percent cover of corals, algal cover, and cases of other prominent organisms as well as bare substratum.

Quantitative percent cover of the reef community can be obtained using this method and it can be repeated over time to obtain changes over a period of time. Disadvantages of this method include difficulty in standardizing the life form categories and the limitation of the data collected, to information on percent cover and relative abundance (English et al. 1997). LIT surveys produce valuable data even though they are time consuming and require considerable effort and skills to record notes underwater (Segal & Castro 2001). A line transect of 20m length is normally used, but transect lengths can vary depending on the surveyor.

1 . 6 Photo quadrate analysis

Photo transect coral reef survey method is used to quantify the data of coral reef benthic communities i.e. live corals and their types, other benthos, dead corals and other reef substrate. This method is used to support the LIT surveys or as an alternative to line transect. A series of photographs are taken along the transect line (usually 20 m each) using an underwater camera. These photographs are combined to form a photo-composite. Photo- composite of the mapped area of the reef are then analyzed using computer software. It provided a detail record of individual corals, sandy or rubble area and other benthos to a mapped area. The photographs not only allowed speedy collection of data in the field, but also provided a permanent record of the transect line, which is useful for long-term monitoring of growth, mortality and recruitment.

Figure 1: Typical photo quadrate analysis

1 . 7 Qualitative assessment

Qualitative assessment of the reef or lagoon is based on visual observation by snorkeling and then comparing the result with underwater photos and aerial photographs.

Annex: Methodology - Page 3 1 . 8 P e r m a n e n t Photo Quadrats

This method involves taking still photographs of a fixed quadrat that are analyzed in the lab. It is useful to determine temporal change in shallow macrobenthos communities. Permanent photo-quadrats can also complement LITs and are suitable for small-scale questions and to follow the fate of individual colonies. Detailed temporal change can be determined for individual corals for biological condition, growth, mortality and recruitment. Data can be used to estimate percent cover, species diversity, relative abundance, density and size. Percentage cover of target organisms can be determined in the lab by either point sample methods by placing a grid cover the quadrat or by digitizing the image (digitizing is more expensive, time-consuming, requires special software and expertise). The precision depends on the apparatus used and the ability to take photo from exactly the same spot as well as observer differences for analysis.

On each designated Impact Sites squares of 50x50cm side length are placed randomly along the coral patches in about 1,5m depth. Still photos are taken and analyzed using the software CPCe 3.4 (Kohler and Gill 2006) with an equally spaced grid overlaid in 10 columns and 10 rows (100 points) per 50x50cm quadrat. Substrate categories are recorded and described. Statistical analysis is then undertaken using PAST software (PAlaeontological Statistics ver. 1.90, Øyvind Hammer).

All quadrats at the survey sites are permanently marked with square plastic markers for further monitoring studies. In addition, when possible, sub-surface buoys are installed at each Site close to the quadrats.

1 . 9 Reef fish Visual Census

Under water counts of reef fishes or underwater visual census (UVC) method is used to assess the fish population at an Impact Site and a Control Site. Visual counts appear to give reasonably reliable results provided that they are applied to fish that are non-cryptic and either diurnally active or at least evident by day. In this method, the surveyor swims along the transect paths above the reef, counting fish that were observed within 1,5m either side of the transect and above up to the water column. The same transects line as for the Visual Quadrat survey is normally utilized to carry out the fish census. Fish are counted along the 20 m transect path (that is in a belt of 1.5 m on either side and up to the water surface). To count the fish, the surveyor swims slowly along, counting fishes that are seen within the defined band transect, 20m long by 3m wide (i.e. one with a total area of 60m²). All fish encountered are recorded at least up to family level, some up to genus and species level, noted on the underwater slate immediately after they are seen. Counting any fish more than once is avoided by training and experience. Speed at which the path swum is controlled so as to standardize the efficiency of search. If the surveyor swims too fast it is easy to miss fish, especially of smaller species, that may be temporarily obscured by corals or rock or be taking shelter. Experience shows that the slower the surveyor swims, more fish that is recorded up to a point. However, the highest number recorded by moving along very slowly may actually be an over estimate of fish density. Hence it is necessary to standardize swimming speed to a slow but not too slow pace. The standard speed of swimming practiced is at a mean rate of 8m a minute. For results, only the most abundant fish families are taken into account, each representing one of the following functional groups: herbivores (Acanthuridae, Scaridae), omnivores (selected Labridae), corallivores (Chaetodontodae) as well as habitat specialists (Pomacentridae).

1 . 1 0 Marine Water Quality

One of the main environmental components that is affected by implementing a number of projects in Maldives is the marine water quality. Water quality is assessed during the field trip by collecting samples and testing them at National Health Laboratory. Water quality is

Annex: Methodology - Page 4 assessed from multiple locations depending on the project. The locations, frequency and parameters to be monitored are given in the EIA report.

1 . 1 1 Coastal environment

1 . 1 2 Shoreline and vegetation line mapping

The island’s shore line and vegetation lines are mapped during low, high and mid tides using a handheld GPS assisted by aerial photos. The data is then entered in to a GIS database and maps are generated.

1 . 1 2 . 1 Coastal structures mapping

Similar to the island’s shore line and vegetation lines, all the coastal infrastructures such as groynes, sea walls, revetments, offshore and near shore breakwaters are mapped using a handheld GPS assisted by aerial photos. The data is then entered in to a GIS database and maps are generated.

1 . 1 2 . 2 Erosion and Accretion areas mapping

Areas where severe erosion and accretion occurring are mapped using a handheld GPS. The data is then entered in to a GIS database and maps are generated and compared with previous available maps and satellite photos.

1 . 1 2 . 3 Beach Profiles

Dumpy levels were also used to survey around selected locations around the island and beach profiles were generated from these data. The location along the which the beach profiles were taken was marked using a GPS for future monitoring. When selecting locations, a permanent structure or object such as a building corner, larger mature tree or any other similar benchmark were identified for future reference. The final beach profiles are corrected to MSL and graphs developed.

1 . 1 2 . 4 Drogues and currents

Nearshore currents in the lagoon or reef were measured by deploying a handheld GPS in a watertight casing with a fin attached at the bottom. The GPS is deployed for a period of minimum 15 minutes during which time its displacement from the original position are recorded as a line. After 15 minutes, it is removed and deployed at another location. Once the data is collected, currents in a particular area is calculated by measuring the distance it has travelled by 15 minutes.

1 . 1 3 Terrestrial environment

1 . 1 3 . 1 Terrestrial floral survey

The baseline terrestrial environment of the project location is studied in detail by counting trees existing in the area, and gathering information available from island office or from other available sources. The survey concentrates on identifying vegetation types, their abundance and occurrence in a given area. The methods used to assess the tree types and abundance are using line transects. A measuring tape is used to set up the transect line which is selected randomly from within the project boundary. The surveyor measures and records the type of trees and their average heights. Average heights are estimated and so there is a greater degree of error in estimating the tree heights. The results are then tabulated to calculate the

Annex: Methodology - Page 5 percentage of different trees. In addition, records from island office / resort or other sources are also used to cross check the figures.

1 . 1 3 . 2 Terrestrial faunal survey

In depth faunal survey is not assessed but the types of fauna encountered during the floral transect is identified and recorded. Focus in given on specific fauna such as turtles, fruit bats, sea birds and other sensitive birds. Birds and their habitation patterns are also observed and recorded during the survey.

1 . 1 3 . 3 Ground Water Assessment

Groundwater quality is assessed by collecting samples from given locations selected randomly or from available points within the island using YSI 6820 multi parameter handheld water quality meter. In addition, water quality is also tested at the National Health Laboratory.

1 . 1 4 Coastal Environment

Data collected on coastal environment includes beach profiles, existing coastal structures (sea walls, breakwaters, groyns etc.), beach composition, beach width, shore line and vegetation line. All beach profile locations are marked on GPS maps and their geographical coordinates are marked on a map. Beach profiles are taken as baseline data to make comparisons during monitoring programme so that any changes resulting from the coastal or any other component of a project can be assessed accurately. Beach profiles are measured using auto levels, GPS and a staff.

1 . 1 5 B a t h y m e t r y

Bathymetric survey are undertaken in the lagoon or reef using Echosounder attached to a boat. The levels are then corrected for mean sea level and represented in a map. Bathymetric maps provide accurate estimates of depths in a particular lagoon or a reef.

1 . 1 6 Aerial photos

Aerials photos provide useful information such as assisting the analysis of marine environment, identifying wave patterns and changes to shoreline and also vulnerable areas of the island for all kinds of projects. Aerial photos are purchased from DigitalGlobe.

1 . 1 7 Available long term weather data

Long term available weather data is obtained from the nearest weather station to a project in Maldives, which is based in Male’ International Airport (Male’ atoll), Hanimaadhoo (Haa Dhaal Atoll), Kaadehdhoo (Gaaf Dhaal atoll and Gan island in Seenu atoll. These data sets are used to develop a regional model in ArcGIS to assess the vulnerable areas of the island or any other project during both monsoons, thus helping the EIA team to assess the vulnerable areas of the island for erosion and various other weather related issues.

Annex: Methodology - Page 6 Annex 5: Letters sent for stakeholder consultation

Page 91 c

Water Solutions Pvt. Ltd. Reg No: C-344/2005 th M.Niyadhurumaage, 4 Floor, Alimas Magu, Male’, Maldives

WS/LTR/2020/094 :ރަބްމަނ

މިނިސްޓްރ އޮފް ޓްރާންސްޕޯޓް އެންޑް ސިވިލް އޭވިއޭޝަން އަލްފާޟިލާ އައިޝަތް ނަހުލާ އަށް ، .ެވެމަވަންނަދ ުހަފްށަމާލަސ ްނުދެވ

ޭހެބ ިއާއ ޭއ.ިއައ.ީއ ެގުމުޅެއ ްއެއރަޓްނެސ ރަފްސްނާރްޓ ްޓްސޭވ ިއަގޭލާމުޅުހ .ކ

ުރަވްނިމ ާރޯފުރަސައ ްށަޓްއެވާމިތ ެގުއޫރްޝަމ ޭގްނިހ ްށަމުޅެއ ްއެރަޓްނެސ ތަފްސްނާރްޓ ްޓްސޭވ ިއަގޭލާމުޅުހ .ކ ރަޓޯވ ީނަވ ްނުތާރަފ ެގ ްޓްނަމްނަރަޔަވްނެއ ްފޮއ ީރްޓްސިނިމ ްތަކްއަސަމ ެގުމުދެހ ްޓޯޕިރ )ޭއ.ިއައ.ީއ( ާރުކްނާޔަބ ުނޫނާޤ( ުނޫނާޤ ެގުމުރުކްތަޔާމިހ ްށޮކިރެތާކްއަރ ިށެވާމިތ ެގޭޖްއާރިހެވިދ ީކަޓޯޕިރ ިމ .ެވެއަފްށޮކުލާވަހ ިއާއ ްސްނަޝުއިލޮސ ްނިރުކ ެގުމުގްނިހ ްއަތުޓްކެޖޮރްޕ ެނާދެވުތައ ްއެލަދަބ ަދަފޭވެރުކަގަހާފ ްށަޓްއެވާމިތ ެގޭޖްއާރ ްނުށަދ ެގ )93/4 ުރަބްނަނ .ެވެކެޓޯޕިރ ޭހެޖްނަރުކާޔްއަތ ްނުމުއިދްނެގ ްށަޔިރުކ ްތަކްއަސަމިމ ީކަޓްކެޖޮރްޕ ެގުމުޅެއ ރަޓްނެސ ރަފްސްނާރްޓ ްޓްސޭވ ިއަގޭލާމުޅުހ ީސްނެޖެއ ްނަޝްކެޓޮރުޕ ްޓްނެމރަޔަވްނެއ ްށަމުދެހ ޭއ.ިއައ.ީއ ިމ ްނުމަކްއެތަކްއަސަމ ެނޭދިއަވުނެގ ްއެކަތުލަދަބ ްށަޓްއެވ ެގުށަރެއ ަގަހާފ ީނަވްށަމުރުކ ްޓްލަސްނޮކ ްށަހީފޮއ ަޔިތ ްނުތޮގޭޅުގާމަކިމ ިއަގްސްނެރަފިރ ްފޮއ ްސްމްނރާޓ ެގޭއ.ިއައ.ީއ ާވިއަފްށޮކޫދ ްނިއ ީނަވ ްށަމުވްއެރުކަގަހާފ ިއަގުޓޯޕިރ ޭއ.ިއައ.ީއ ްއަތްނަކ ާވްއަރުކަހާފ ްނުތޮގ ޭހެބ ިއާޓްކެޖޮރްޕިމ ްނުތާރަފިތ ިދައ .ެވެއަފާވްއަރުކ .ެވެއަފިވެންނެދ ވީމާ، ހުޅުމާލޭގައި ވޭސްޓް ޓްރާންސްފަރ ސެންޓަރ އެޅުމުގެ މަޝްރޫއާ ގުޅޭގޮތުން ތިޔަ އޮފީހުގެ ކަމާބެހޭ ބޭފުޅުންނާއި ކޮންސަލްޓް ކުރުމަށް ޕްރޮޖެކްޓްގެ އީ.އައި.އޭ ޓީމުން ބޭނުންވާތީ، ވީހާ އަވަހަކަށް މީޓިންގް އެއް ހަމަޖައްސަވައި .ެވެމީވެންނެދ ިދެއ ްށަމުވްއެދ ތިޔަ އޮފީހުގެ މިމަސައްކަތާއި ބެހޭގޮތުން އިތުރު މަޢުލޫމާތެއް ބޭނުންފުޅުވެ ލައްވާނަމަ، އީ.އައި.އޭ ޓީމުގެ .ެވެމެދެއ ްނުވްއުޅުގ ިއާއ )3341643/7679443/[email protected]( ްޒިއާފ ްމިހާރްބިއ ރަބްމެމ .ެވެމެދެއ ްނުވްއެރުކ ްލޫބަޤ ްމާރިތްޙިއ .މ 2020 ުޗިރާމ 16

ްމުކ ްމިދާޚ

ްޒިއާފ ްމިހާރްބިއ ްލަޓްނެމްނަރަޔަވްނެއ ްޓްނަޓްލަސްނޮކ

މިނިސްޓްރީ އޮފް ޓްރާންސްޕޯޓް އެންޑް ސިވިލް އޭވިއޭޝަން، މާލެ، ދިވެހިރާއްޖެ. Tel: (960) 334 1643, Fax: (960) 333 1643 www.water-solutions.biz; [email protected] Juma Ahmed

Hulhumale Waste Transfer Center EIA 3 messages

Juma Ahmed Mon, Mar 16, 2020 at 2:47 PM To: [email protected]

Dear Sir/Madam,

Below I have attached the project brief of the EIA and a letter requesting for a consultation meeting.

-- Regards, Juma Ahmed Environmental Intern

Water Solutions Pvt. Ltd. 4th floor, M. Niyadhurumaage, Alimas Magu, Male', Maldives Mobile: (960)7951559 Tel: (960)3341643 Fax : (960)3331643 E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.water-solutions.biz

2 attachments 2019-10-04 Project Brief Hulhumale' Waste Center.pdf 1872K 2020-03-16 WS-LTR-094 - Hulhumale Waste Transfer Center EIA Stakeholder - Transport Ministry.pdf 541K

Juma Ahmed Thu, Jun 11, 2020 at 11:53 AM To: Yumin Naseem

[Quoted text hidden]

2 attachments 2019-10-04 Project Brief Hulhumale' Waste Center.pdf 1872K 2020-03-16 WS-LTR-094 - Hulhumale Waste Transfer Center EIA Stakeholder - Transport Ministry.pdf 541K

Yumin Naseem To: [email protected] Cc: Juma Ahmed

Dear Sir/Madam,

In regards to the previous email, pease find the project brief and letter requesting for a stakeholder consultation for the Hulhumale' Waste Transfer EIA opinions/questions regarding the project. We would kindly appreciate a reply at your earliest convenience. Thank you.

Best regards, [Quoted text hidden] -- Yumin Naseem Junior Environmental Consultant

Water Solutions Pvt Ltd. 4th floor, M.Niyadhurumaage, Alimasmagu Male', 20205, Maldives Mobile: (960) 7555722 Tel: (960) 3341643, (960) 3301643 , Ext : 1014 E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.water-solutions.biz Social Media: @wsmaldives

Disclaimer: This email (including all attachments) is confidential and intended only for the use of the individual or entity named above and may contain information that is privileged. If you are not t email in error, please notify us immediately by return email or telephone and destroy the original message. Thank you. 7/2/2020 Water Solutions Mail - Re: Request for consultation regarding Hulhumale Waste Transfer Facility

Ibrahim Faiz

Re: Request for consultation regarding Hulhumale Waste Transfer Facility 1 message

Ibrahim Faiz Sun, Jun 28, 2020 at 3:38 PM To: [email protected]

Dear Sir/Madam,

We (Water Solutions Pvt Ltd) is undertaking an EIA for the proposed construction of a waste transfer facility in Hulhumale. This project is proposed by the Ministry of Environment. The proposed location for the facility is the empty land plot east to the STELCO Hulhumale site. The ToR of the EIA issued from EPA states that the EIA should include comments and suggestions from the adjacent plot owners. Therefore we would like to request to arrange an online meeting or a call with management of STELCO hulhumale to conduct this consultation.

Thank you! -- Kind Regards

Ibrahim Faiz Environmental Consultant

Description: cid:[email protected] Water Solutions Pvt. Ltd. 4th Floor, M. Niyadhurumaage, Alimas Magu, Male', Maldives Tel: (960) 3341643 Fax : (960) 3331643 E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.water-solutions.com

Disclaimer: This email (including all attachments) is confidential and intended only for the use of the individual or entity named above and may contain information that is privileged. If you are not the intended recipient, you are notified that any dissemination, distribution or copying of this email is strictly prohibited. If you have received this email in error, please notify us immediately by return email or telephone and destroy the original message. Thank you. Description: cid:[email protected]

2 attachments image002.png 3K image001.png 4K

https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0?ik=01040c8de7&view=pt&search=all&permthid=thread-a%3Ar-8257409045842478136&simpl=msg-a%3Ar-4043433… 1/1 c

Water Solutions Pvt. Ltd. Reg No: C-344/2005 th M.Niyadhurumaage, 4 Floor, Alimas Magu, Male’, Maldives

WS/LTR/2020/095 :ރަބްމަނ

މިނިސްޓަރ އޮފް ނެޝަނަލް ޕްލޭނިންގް އެންޑް އިންފްރާ ސްޓަރަކްޗަރ އޮނަރަބަލް މުހައްމަދު އަސްލަމަށް، .ެވެމަވަންނަދ ުހަފްށަމާލަސ ްނުދެވ

ޭހެބ ިއާއ ޭއ.ިއައ.ީއ ެގުމުޅެއ ްއެއރަޓްނެސ ރަފްސްނާރްޓ ްޓްސޭވ ިއަގޭލާމުޅުހ .ކ

ްމުކ ްމިދާޚ

ްޒިއާފ ްމިހާރްބިއ ްލަޓްނެމްނަރަޔަވްނެއ ްޓްނަޓްލަސްނޮކ

ެެޝަނަލް ޕްލޭނިންގް އެންޑް އިންފްރާ ސްޓަރަކްޗަރ، މާލެ، ދިވެހިރާއްޖެ. Tel: (960) 334 1643, Fax: (960) 333 1643 www.water-solutions.biz; [email protected] Juma Ahmed

Hulhumale Waste Transfer Center EIA 3 messages

Juma Ahmed Mon, Mar 16, 2020 at 2:49 PM To: [email protected]

Dear Sir/Madam,

Below I have attached the project brief of the EIA and a letter requesting for a consultation meeting

-- Regards, Juma Ahmed Environmental Intern

2 attachments 2019-10-04 Project Brief Hulhumale' Waste Center.pdf 1872K 2020-03-16 WS-LTR-095 - Hulhumale Waste Transfer Center EIA Stakeholder - Planning Ministry.pdf 541K

Juma Ahmed Thu, Jun 11, 2020 at 11:53 AM To: Yumin Naseem

[Quoted text hidden]

2 attachments 2019-10-04 Project Brief Hulhumale' Waste Center.pdf 1872K 2020-03-16 WS-LTR-095 - Hulhumale Waste Transfer Center EIA Stakeholder - Planning Ministry.pdf 541K

Yumin Naseem To: [email protected] Cc: Juma Ahmed

Dear Sir/Madam,

Best regards,

[Quoted text hidden] -- Yumin Naseem Junior Environmental Consultant

Disclaimer: This email (including all attachments) is confidential and intended only for the use of the individual or entity named above and may contain information that is privileged. If you are not t email in error, please notify us immediately by return email or telephone and destroy the original message. Thank you. Annex 6: EIA Submission letter from Male’ Atoll Council

Page 92 Kaafu Atoll Council

Male’ City Council Annex 7: Water Test Reports from MWSC

Page 93