Environmental Impact Assessement Full Study

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSEMENT FULL STUDY REPORT FOR DEVELOPMENT OF A FILLING STATION AT DAILY COUNTRY KATIMA IN B8; MPACHA ROAD OPPOSITE OSHANA CAMP, ZAMBEZI REGION

This Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) full study report is submitted to Ministry of Environment and Tourism. In conformity with the requirements of the Environmental Management and coordination Act No.7 of 2007 and the Environmental ( Impact Assessments and Audit) regulations, 7 of 2012.

Proponent: Acer Petroleum Pty. Ltd Katima Prepared by: Advanced Environmental Agency Cc Continental Building Office no: 44 Cell: 081 7606590

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT REPORT

CONTENTS

Chapter Description Page

1 INTRODUCTION 5

1.1 Scoping Report and Conditions of Acceptance 5

1.2 Purpose of the Environmental Impact Assessment Report 6 1.2.1 EIA Phase 6 1.2.2 Environmental Impact Assessment Report 6

2 DETAILS OF THE ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT PRACTITIONER 8

2.1 ADVANCED ENVIRONMENTAL AGENCY CC 8 2.1.1 Details of EAP that prepared the EIA Report 8 2.1.2 Expertise of the EAP 8

3 DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PROPOSED ACTIVITY 9 3.1 Description of Proposed Activity 9 3.1.1 Description of the filling station 10

3.2 Location of the proposed activity 11

3.3 Need and Desirability of Proposed Activity 12

3.4 Timing of the activity 14

3.5 Alternatives 15 3.5.1 Site 19 3.5.2 Design 23 3.5.3 Layout 23 3.5.4 No-Go 24

4 DESCRIPTION OF THE RECEIVING ENVIRONMENT 25

4.1 Introduction 25

4.2 Physical Environment 26 4.2.1 Climate 26 4.2.2 Geology 26 4.2.3 Hydrology 26 (a) Surface Water 26 (b) Groundwater 26 4.2.4 Topography 26

4.3 Biological Environment 27 4.3.1 Vegetation 27

ACRONYMS

A AECA Advance Environmental Consultancy Agency B BID Background Information Document C CBD Central Business District D DEA Department of Environmental Affairs DRT Department of Roads and Transport: E EAP Environmental Assessment Practitioner EIA Environmental Impact Assessment EIASR Environmental Impact Assessment Scoping Report EMP Environmental Management Plan / Programme I I&AP Interested and Affected Party I&APs Interested and Affected Parties IDP Integrated Development Plan N NEMA Environmental Management Act (Act 7 of 2007) P PPP Public Participation Process R RA Road Authority S SDF Spatial Development Framework U UST Underground Storage Tank W WWTW waste water treatment

1. INTRODUCTION

Advanced Environmental Agency CC has been appointed by the Acer Petroleum Pty Ltd (AEA) as an independent environmental practitioner to undertake a scoping and Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) for the development of a filling station .The EIA conforms to the regulations of Namibia as promulgated in terms of the Environmental Management Act (Act no. 7 of 2012).

1.1 Proponent

Proponent Acer Petroleum Pty. ltd is Tanzanian owned the, Acer Petroleum has proved experience in running businesses of filling station and logistic that has been operating in some African countries such as Mozambique, Zambia, Botswana and others more. Acer Petroleum offers a wide variety of services in the oil industry, recruiting dynamic and talented young Namibians.

1.2 Scoping Report and Conditions of Acceptance

This report represents the Environmental Impact Assessment Report (EIAR) and has been prepared in accordance with the EIA Regulations published in Government act No. 7 of 2007. The Ministry of Environment and Tourism stipulates that “listed activities” (i.e. those activities that have been recognized as having a detrimental effect on the environment) require environmental authorization from the competent authority. To this end an application for authorization was lodged with the competent authority. Table 1 Provides a summary of the listed activities associated with the project that require environmental authorization.

Table 1: listed activities associated with the project.

Governm ent Activity Listed Activity Notice. Number

The construction of filling stations, including associated structures and infrastructure, or any other facility for the underground storage of a dangerous good, including petrol, diesel, liquid petroleum gas or paraffin.

The transformation of undeveloped, vacant or derelict land to – (b) residential, mixed, retail, commercial, industrial or institutional use where such development does not constitute infill and where the total area to be transformed is bigger than 1 hectare.

In the letter of acceptance, it is specifically required that the following issues be addresses adequately in the EIR: • Need and desirability of the proposed project. • Economic viability of the proposed project.

1.2 Purpose of the Environmental Impact Assessment Report

This report represents the Environmental Impact Assessment Report (EIAR) and has been prepared in accordance with the EIA Regulations published in Government (GN 30 FEBRUARY 2012). These regulations fall under the Environmental Management Act, 2007 (Act No.7 of 2007) (EMA). Under regulation 44 of the Petroleum Products Regulations promulgated under Government Notice No. 155 of 23 June 2000, stipulates that “listed activities” (i.e. those activities that have been recognized as having a detrimental effect on the environment) require environmental authorization from the competent authority.

Three phases in the EIA process are typically recognized:

• Application Phase;

• Scoping Phase; and

• EIA Phase.

The first two phases of this process have been dealt with in this report, this report represents the outcome of the third phase.

1.2.1 EIA Phase The EIA phase determines the significance of the impact of the proposed activity on the surrounding environment. During the EIA phase, an Environmental Impact Report (EIAR) will be produced by advanced Environmental Agency CC and submitted to DEA. The EIAR (this report) will provide an assessment of all the identified key issues and associated impacts from the Scoping Phase as well as a description of appropriate mitigation measures. All environmental impacts are assessed both before and after mitigation to determine:

• The significance of the impact despite mitigation; and

• The effectiveness of the proposed mitigation measures. As in the scoping phase there is a detailed public participation process that ensures all interested and affected parties (I&APs) are informed of the proposed activity and, provided an opportunity to comment.

1.2.2 Environmental Impact Assessment Reports

The aim of the EIAR is to document the outcome of the EIA Phase and includes the following:

• Details and expertise of the Environmental Assessment Practitioner (EAP) undertaking the EIA;

• A detailed description of the proposed activity;

• A description of the property and the location on the property of the proposed activity;

• A description of the need and desirability for the project;

• A description and assessment of feasible and reasonable alternatives; 6

• A description of the receiving environment;

• Documentation of the Public Participation Process and a register of Interested and Affected Parties; (See Section 6);

• A summary of the findings/recommendations of any required specialists.

• A description of environmental issues and impacts associated with the project proposal and alternatives;

• A description of the methodology used in the assessment of impacts;

• An assessment of each impact and a description of appropriate mitigation measures;

• Details of any assumptions, uncertainties or gaps in knowledge;

• An environmental impact statement that includes an opinion on the authorization of the proposed activity a summary of the findings, and an assessment of the positive and negative impacts;

• A draft Environmental Management Plan (EMP);

• Copies of the specialist reports; and

• Any other information required by the authorities.

After public review, the Environmental Impact Assessment Report will be submitted to DEA for their approval.

2. DETAILS OF THE ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT PRACTITIONER

This chapter is intended to provide details on the organization and the authors that undertook the EIA Study as required in terms of (ACT NO. 7 OF 2007)32(2)(a).

2.1 ADVANCED ENVIRONMENTAL AGENCY CC

Advanced Environmental Consultant Agency Cc is an environmental consulting company whose environmental division comprises 6 individuals of which all are Environmental Assessment Practitioners. The environmental division has undertaken over 7 Environmental Impact Assessments for development projects within Namibia.

2.1.1 Details of EAP that prepared the EIA Report

2.1.1 Details of EAP that prepared the EIA Report Name: Miss Albertina Simon Address: P.O. Box 96255 Windhoek Namibia

OFFICE NO: # 44 Continental Building, Independence Avenue Tel: 081 760 6590 E-mail: [email protected]

2.1.2 EXPERTISE OF THE EAP

ALBERTINA.J. SIMON

Miss Albertina Simon the owner and founder of Advanced Environmental Agency Cc is an Environmentalist with 2 years’ experience in EIA regulation and conservation research support in Namibia. She has served as an environmental officer reviewing applications with environmental issues for different environmental assessment/consulting companies, before embarking on registering her own company as assistant.

Her key expertise includes: Review of Environmental Impact Assessments and related reports, compilation and quality control of records of decision for environmental authorizations, and development of operational guidelines, procedures and templates for administration of environmental application.

3. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PROPOSED ACTIVITY

This chapter is intended to fulfil the requirements of GRN, regulations on the petrol 32(2)(b), (c) and (f).

3.1 Description of Proposed Activity

The study area includes one site in the town of Katima ,Zambezi region . The proposed activity entails the subdivision of an approximately 2,4 ha portion for the construction of a retail development comprising of a filling station, shop and truck port and amenities.

Figure 1 Provides a concept layout for the proposed project. The land is already serviced and is located under communal land. The site is situated at the entrance of Katima town along the Trans Kalahari road . The plot is undisturbed, it was not used for any activity before. The process of rezoning land use falls outside the ambit of the EIA process and is subject to a separate authorization process in terms of the relevant land use planning legislation. The proponent already has an issued certificate from the traditional authority and Ministry of Land and Settlement approving the go ahead in the proposed project. The certificate is available with Acer Petroleum. Specific details of the exact design and layout of the filling station is as follow; The filling station will make provision for the underground storage of unload petrol and diesel. The typical tanks allocation on a two storage tanks facility is to use one tank for the storage of petrol and one for the storage of diesel. However, this depends on anticipated sales volumes for each product. NB this will be double made tanks to avoid oil spill.

The filling station will have 3 pumps and three nozzle’s standard industry practice for area under the canopy to be slightly raised above the level of the reminder of the service area and sealed with an impervious layer.

The project entails the construction of a filling station with:

• 3 underground fuel tanks, each of 23000-liter (23 cubic meters) capacity; • 3 pumps, with three nozzles each (1 pump with 3 nozzles for petrol and one for diesel)

• 2- ULP 95 and one diesel

• canopied forecourt with dispensing pumps;

• convenience store

In addition, it is proposed to construct the following tourism related facilities as part of the development

• Parking space for cars and tour buses

• Additional Shops

The total extent of the development is estimated to be 2,4 ha. It is envisaged that the land is privately owned, under the authority of traditional authority, Acer PTY LTD is responsible for construction and running of the proposed development. It is anticipated that besides the 24 possible direct employment opportunities associated with construction a further 10 to 15 indirect jobs could be generated during this phase of the development. However, it is unlikely that all of these job opportunities will accrue to Zambezi residents as much depends on the sourcing of services and skills. There will be the creation of between 25 and 30 permanent jobs associated directly with the operation of the filling station.

3.1.1 Description of the filling station

Specific details of the exact design and layout of the filling station is as follow, the filling station will make provision for the underground storage of unlead petrol and diesel. The typical tanks allocation on a two storage tanks facility is to use one tank for the storage of petrol and one for the storage of diesel. However, this depends on anticipated sales volumes for each product. NB this will be double made tanks to avoid oil spill.

The filling station will have 3 pumps and three nozzles standard industry practice for area under the canopy to be slightly raised above the level of the reminder of the service area and sealed with an impervious layer.

The installation of the fuel tanks and pipelines at the filling station will be in line with SABS Standards (SANS 10089: Parts 1-3). In terms of these standards:

• Underground fuel storage tanks (USTs) should be, as a minimum, composite tanks (fiber-reinforced resin coated steel tanks);

• Installation requirements for USTs are prescribed;

• Filler point containment measures for the containment of spillages during tank filling are prescribed; and

• Supply pipeline types, containment measures and installation requirements are specified.

The tanks will be filled from a common filler box. The filler point will be surrounded by secondary sleeking to prevent surface water and soil from entering the filler box. The fuel tanker operator will pump out any spillage into this filler box at the time of fuel delivery.

Fuel from these tanks will be pumped through underground pipelines, which will be laid to the forecourt area, where it will finally be dispensed into customers’ vehicles. Dispensing pumps will be fitted with emergency cut off valves as specified by the relevant legislation and standard.

3.2 Location of the proposed activity

The filling station will be constructed at communal land in Zambezi region Katima, daily country, in business area. During the visit on the site, the Erf is separated from houses, there are shebeens measured almost a kilometer near the site . The place is currently not in use for anything, across the road is Oshana camp. There are no houses surrounding ,the nearest residentials are situated across the B8, which are approximately 600 m from the site. Earlier in the study accordance with the requirements of the regulations that feasible and reasonable alternatives be considered, which includes the consideration of alternative sites, all houses mentioned are across the road none of them are direct on one side with the site. The owners of this houses were consulted during the scoping preparation, and confirmed that they don’t have a problem with the proposed development. Subsequent to the Scoping phase and discussions between the applicant and the municipality and constituency council this site was identified, and approved by the Katima traditional authority, Zambezi regional council. These would not affect any nearest house as long as the proponent takes all the conditions given in the EMP into consideration before starting.

No subsequent site was identified for the construction of the proposed filling station and other amenities, however the site /plot described above was the only one and is the only applicant for the proposed business.

Table 2: Landownership summary of the three site alternatives under consideration.

Site Mrs Clarina Zita DIAs LAND OWNER

PROPORTION OF Katima town, Zambezi region at daily SITE OWNED country opposite Oshana camp

3.3 Need and Desirability of Proposed Activity

Facilitation of the development of the local filling station is an acknowledged objective of both the Katima and the growing towns of Zambezi region, tourists from across the border and residents. Council and the government, as evidenced by the prominence given to it in the various policies, strategies, plans and frameworks published. The promotion of business and job creation is addressed in the current Integrated Development Plan for the Katima town and the whole Zambezi region, as a priority sector for local economic development. It can be seen that Katima is an important host of tourist in Namibia and an entrance receiving tourists of the southern border of Namibia, thus having the potential to contribute to the growth of Namibian economy . The GC Spatial Development Framework indicates various Business zones, based economic development of which (ACER PETROLIUM NAMIBIA PTY LTD) functions as the center for these. That having such developments makes them to move freely around the town. This will be the first filling station in the Daily country community which is a distance from the center of town where a lot of filling stations are. They (community) embrace the proposal since they will also have an opportunity of getting employed in their community. Tourists in this area also face difficulties during their visit in this area, therefore the construction of a filling station is desirable to their community.

It is believed that the proposed combined development would be ideally placed to provide a variety of services to tourists in an integrated manner as an entry point or portal. Such an entry point or portal would need to provide a variety of services to tourists and local community in an integrated manner; it would need to attract the attention of tourists; and importantly, it would need to be sustainable. Given the focus on tourism the packaging of this development is logical in that all components provide services to tourists and passing travelers. Furthermore, the provision of facilities for the parking, loading and unloading of long-distance buses at this proposed development will also go some way to alleviating the current congestion associated with these activities.

Figure 3: Spatial context of the Acer petroleum filling station project

3.4 Timing of the activity

The development process for this project, including permitting, detailed planning design and construction is likely to take in the order of 6 to 7 months. Phasing development of the project was thought by the applicant not to be viable or practical as the absence of an economic “anchor” will adversely affect the sustainability of the one stop-center. Conversely, development of the filling station without the rest of the project elements would not achieve the overall desired aim of raising the profile of Zambezi region and Katima town as a tourism attraction place.

Business in the area, filling station component medium-term, i.e. in about 1 year might lose out to other business venture who would still be the same. Should only be considered for development in the Steal be the proponent The Economic specialist study further indicates that the time, otherwise with the demand for the type of the economic specialist study further indicates that the filling station component should only be considered for development in the medium-term, i.e. in about 3 years.

3.5 Alternatives

The EIA Regulations stipulates that a requirement of the EIA Process is to investigate feasible and reasonable alternatives to the project proposal. Sub- regulation 32(2)(f) requires that the advantages and disadvantages of identified potential alternatives for the environment and affected community be described.

The EIA Regulations define “Alternatives”, in relation to a proposed activity, as “different means of meeting the general purpose and requirements of the activity, which may include alternatives to –

(a) the property on which or location where it is proposed to undertake the activity;

(b) the type of activity to be undertaken;

(d) the technology to be used in the activity; and

(e) the operational aspects of the activity.”

Given the nature of this particular project and its associated activities the following alternatives will be assessed:

• site;

• activity;

• layout; and

• no-go.

A matrix of the potential alternatives identified during the Scoping Phase is set out in Table 3 below. Further details of identified site under consideration are discussed in the subsequent sub-sections of this chapter. Table 3: Summary of potential alternatives to the proposed activity, with the advantages and disadvantages of the site

Selected site Advantages Disadvantages Site location The site is located in Visibility – this is a highly Proximity to residential area. Katima, Zambezi region visible site, at following coordinates. which from a business perspective is essential to the success of the project.

Location – at entrance to town for travelers moving inland, at exit from town for travelers 16

moving towards the east or the north.

Engineering – has access to the necessary municipal infrastructure services.

Selected site Advantages Disadvantages Site This site is located Visibility – this is a highly Proximity to residential along the road trans visible site, area. which from a business Kalahari road B8 at perspective is essential the entrance of to the success of the Katima (town), in daily project. country . Location – at entrance to town for travelers moving inland, at exit from town for travelers moving towards the east or the north Engineering – has access to the necessary municipal infrastructure services.

Access Site access Option 1: Access from Customers moves off Road safety standards the trans Kalahari road, the trans Kalahari B8 may be compromised Mpacha road B8 and turn their right side through the when from Rundu -built introduction of an access point, large additional intersection vehicles will be near two existing required to make intersections and a complex turning curve. man over in, there is a wide space. Traffic congestion and No activity currently unsafe long-distance taking place as the plot is uncleared. bus passenger loading and unloading in near the site continues. In the longer term, the Tourism co-ordination and land remains showcasing of local arts available for and crafts remain development. fragmented. Associated local economic development may not realize its full potential. No filling station, no Potential job opportunities possibility of fuel created. leaking into soil or ground water. This site is located in in Visibility – this is a highly Proximity to residential Katima at the town visible site, which from a area. entrance just opposite Oshana camp near business perspective is the B8 Mpacha road essential to the success of the project Accessibility from in along trans Kalahari B8 Mpacha road– safety considerations in respect of existing intersections and road alignment. Engineering – has access to the necessary municipal infrastructure Services. Existing land uses are to Traffic congestion and stop compility unsafe long-distance unchanged, no animal bus passenger loading to use the area. and unloading in the CBD continues.

Shown in Figure 2. Is the Scoping Report showing the main issues on site selection 2.1.1 Site Only one site is under consideration as set out in Section 3.2 above and shown in The Scoping Report shows the main issues in site selection to be: • Access, along trans Kalahari B8 road, turn to the right when coming from Rundu opposite the Oshana camp turn left when coming from the Katima town in trans Kalahari B8 road. • Road Access permission is given by the road’s authority.

Site under consideration

For these reasons the Plan of Study for EIA lists site locality as one of the alternatives to be assessed during the EIA Phase. Figure 5 shows the northern entrance to the site from town through street , it can be seen that the topography is flat and that potential development areas are limited. The site is surrounded by trees and across the road is some houses by other business .Added to this is the fact that the developing area west of the outside of the town as defined in earlier. The area is located in location Daily Country, opposite Oshana camp and it has been cleared already for construction and currently rezoned for business. From an environmental perspective Katima is averaged to be less than 50mm per year. The area is rocky which can low in drainage volume ,therefore sometimes there can be few surface waters around Katima town, Zambezi region but no flood in the place and pollution from fuel spills, which are commonly associated with fuel stations. Similarly, there is a need for sumps which will be placed in a way that it won’t run into the sewage system line near the site.

3.5.2 Design

The design of a development such as this takes place at a variety of scales. For simplicity’s sake these may be divided into macro and micro scales. Macro scale design in this instance is taken to be the main physical or economic activities making up the proposed development. Effectively the proposed development under consideration here consists of two elements: • Filling station; and • Retail center (café center, arts and coffee shop, and play area, additional shops and parking for cars and buses). These were assessed from an economic perspective in combination, as per the current proposal, and as a retail center without the filling station component. A summary of the findings and recommendations of the specialist study are presented in Chapter 7 and the full Micro scale design, for the purposes of this report, includes physical design elements such as: • shaping of the site, e.g. use of split levels between the retail component and filling station; • landscaping, e.g. selection of plants and “hard” landscaping materials; • building materials, e.g. boundary fencing; and • lighting types, e.g. lamp type and wattage. Because the proposed development is still at a concept design stage micro scale design alternative have not been assessed here. Nevertheless, recommendations for the mitigation of anticipated impacts have included recommendations regarding micro scale design element.

3.5.3 Layout 21

Layout of the proposed development is largely dependent on the location of access points from the trans Kalahari B8 Mpacha road. The consideration of layout alternatives has thus largely revolved around the assessment of traffic impacts and the consideration of alternative access points.

3.5.4 No-Go

As part of the consideration of alternatives it is required that the no-go alternative is considered. Essentially this is a consideration of possible impacts on the environment should the proposed development not be implemented.

4 DESCRIPTION OF THE RECEIVING ENVIRONMENT

This chapter is intended to fulfil the requirements of GRN ACT (no 7 of 2007) Sub-regulation 32(2)(d).

4.1 Introduction

This chapter provides a description of the receiving environment within the study area. Three components to the environment are recognized:

• Physical Environment;

• Biological Environment; and

• Socio-Economic Environment.

Only those elements of the environment that have a direct bearing on the impact assessment process of the project are discussed. The severity of the potential impacts is largely determined by the state of the receiving environment.

For example, the installation of underground fuel storage tanks in a pristine wetland habitat would have far more significant ecological impacts than the installation of underground fuel storage tanks in an industrial area business center.

4.2 Physical Environment

Climate The climate in Katima Mulilo is referred to as a local steppe climate. The climate here is classified as BSh by the Köppen-Geiger system. The average annual temperature is 21.3 °C in Katima Mulilo. About 684 mm of precipitation falls annually. In Katima Mulilo, the wet season is muggy and mostly cloudy, the dry season is mostly clear, and it is hot year round. Over the course of the year, the temperature typically varies from 50°F to 95°F and is rarely below 44°F or above 101°F.

Fauna and Flora Animals to be encountered are elephant, buffalo, roan, sable, kudu, impala, oribi, zebra, wild dog as well as some 430 species of birds. The region is home to 450 animal species, including elephants, making the Zambezi Region a popular game-watching spot. The wildlife is protected by several national parks, Bwabwata National Park, Mamili National Park, and Mudumu National Park; animals travel freely across the unmarked border with Botswana, where the Chobe National Park lies. The Caprivi strip is also a prime bird-watching area, with almost 70 percent of bird species found in Namibia being recorded here. The construction of filling station and truck port does not have an impact on the wild life even though a few might be disturbed, like lizards and birds. Bwabwata National Park is 6,100 square kilometers (2,400 sq mi) and extends for about 180 km (110 mi) from the Kavango River in the west to the Kwando River in the east. Deciduous woodlands are dominated by trees such as wild seringa, copalwood and Zambezi teak. While the park is sanctuary to 35 large and numerous small game species, visitors are not likely to see many of these animals as vehicles are restricted to the road between Kavango and Eastern Caprivi. Animals likely to be seen are elephant, roan and kudu, buffalo occur towards the west. As many as 339 bird species have been recorded in the west of the Zambezi Region. The wild and little visited Mamili National Park is Namibia's equivalent of the Okavango Delta, a watery wonderland of wildlife rich islands, river channels and wetlands. The focal points of the 320 km2 (120 sq mi) national park are Nkasa and Lupala, two large islands in the Kwando/Linyati river. During the dry season the islands can be reached by road but after the rains 80% of the area becomes flooded, cutting them off from the mainland. birds.

Geology The area is covered by a sand soil . This might cause high porosity level leading to high drainage level and reducing storm water running off. The area is situated at a flat ground.

Vegetation Katima Mulilo, which is sometimes shortened to just "Katima", had 28,362 inhabitants in 2010, It is located on the national road B8 on the banks of the Zambezi River in lush riverine vegetation with tropical birds and monkeys. The town receives an annual average rainfall of 654 millimetres (25.7 in).

Rainfall The average rain fall is 684 mm annual temperature is 21.3 °C in Katima Mulilo. About 684 mm of precipitation falls annually. clearing a portion of 2,4 hectors in Katima will have a long time impact on the rainfall of the region.

Economic activities The town features an export processing zone and the largest open market in Namibia. The residents of Katima engage in a variety of livelihood activities including livestock herding, crop production and natural resource use. Many practice subsistence agriculture , making a living on the nearest banks with some cash cropping.

5 PUBLIC PARTICIPATION PROCESS

The EIA Regulations specify that a public participation process must be conducted as an integral part of the EIA. Regulation Act (no 7 of 2007) sets out the minimum requirements for the public participation process; this Scoping Report provides details of the steps taken to comply with the requirements of regulation. This chapter outlines the public participation process followed in fulfillment of the requirements of sub-regulation.

Public comments The meeting was held at Katima in daily country near the site and proposed site just few meters from the site where the community was given a chance to participate according to the regulation (7) of act (no. 7 of 2007) and environmental assessment regulations (GN 30 IN GG 4878 OF 6 FEBRUARY 2012)

Community members and all disaffected parties’ residents have represented themselves and registered their comments towards the proposed project. The meeting was attended by community residents from nearest houses to register their comments. A few numbers of community, affected parties emailed their comments and inputs, whereby some have shown their interest in the proposed project. Some have accepted the filling station to be constructed at the proposed site. Katima is the entrance point to tourists and this development of the facility will be of great benefit to truck drivers and people going in from Angola and Botswana. The community supported their proposal, that having a filling station in their community is a good thing as these will give support to other types of developments and provide employment.

There are some objections raised by the people using the plot currently ,they question that: Will the municipality give them a place because they use the place to produce for their families?

Meeting with the community : Call for public participation

THE FOLLOWING ARE THE NEWS PAPER ADVERTS CALLING FOR PUBLIC PARTICIPATION

1. 12 October 2019 2. 02 February 2019

See the applauded proof of consultation requirements of the Plan of Study (32) (2) (e) (l):

• Inform I&APs of the acceptance of the Scoping Report by ADVANCED ENVIRONMENTAL AGENCY. (Appendix C- 1); • Maintain the I&AP Register (Appendix C-2) (32)(2)(e)(ii); • Update the Comments Register (Appendix C-3) (32)(2)(e)(iii); • Notify I&APs of the availability of the Environmental Impact Report; and • Notify I&APs of the Environmental Authorization or Refusal of Authorization.

Copies of correspondence received from I&APs may be found in Appendix C-4 26

(32)(2)(e)(iv)

5.1 Notification of Acceptance of Scoping Report

Registered I&APs were informed by means of e-mail and fax of the acceptance of the Scoping Report by DEA. A copy of the notice and distribution list may be found in Appendix C-1.

5.2 Register of Interested and Affected Parties (I&APs)

In accordance with the requirements of Regulation, of Government Notice No. (no 7 of 2007), a register of I&APs has been maintained and updated throughout this project. Kindly refer to Appendix C-2 for a copy of the register.

5.3 Comments Register

All I&APs’ written comments relating to the Scoping Phase were recorded in a comments register, which formed Appendix H of the Scoping Report. This register has been included as Appendix C-3 in this report. Comments submitted in response to this EIA Report will be added to this register.

5.4 Public Review of the EIA Report

This EIA Report is made available to register I&APs for a 15-day comment period, commencing on 28 October 2019. Any comments received from I&APs will be incorporated into the final EIA Report if required, which will be submitted to DEA.

6 ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES AND IMPACTS

This chapter seeks to fulfill the requirements of GN, Sub-regulation (GN 30 IN GG 4878 OF 6 FEBRUARY 2012) with respect to the description of environmental issues identified during the EIA process, their significance and potential for mitigation; and 32(2)(k) with respect to the assessment of identified significant impacts.

6.1 Environmental Issues

An environmental issue is defined as “a generally expressed environmental concern or impact” raised in an EIA process by the EAP, key stakeholders, authorities or I&APs. The purpose of this section is to reflect the key environmental issues associated with the proposed project that has been raised through the EIA process. Key issues were identified according to the following criteria: • Whether or not the issue raised falls within the scope and the responsibility of the project; • Whether or not there is sufficient information available to respond to the issues or concerns raised without further specialist investigation; and • Whether any aspect of the project is in consistent with the legal, policy or planning framework.

Table 4 shows the key environmental issues identified during the Scoping phase of the EIA process. Sub-regulation (GN 30 IN GG 4878 OF 6 FEBRUARY 2012) requires that an assessment of the significance of each issue be provided together with an indication of the extent to which the issue could be addressed through the implementation of mitigation measures. It should be understood that an environmental issue does not equate to an environmental impact hence the identification of impacts associated with each issue.

In assessing the significance of an environmental issue, the following have been considered and a rating of High, Medium or Low is given: • The number of potential impacts associated with the issue; • The probable extent of these impacts; and • The potential for mitigation of these impacts.

The following criteria have been considered in determining the mitigation potential of an environmental issue: • The existence of legislation, norms and standards intended to safeguard the particular environmental issue; •Whether mitigation can be achieved through design of the development; •Whether mitigation can be achieved through management of the development.

Utilizing the mitigation potential criteria listed above the rating of mitigation potential has been determined as follows: • High = all three mitigation potential criteria apply • Moderate = two mitigation potential criteria apply • Low = one mitigation potential criterion applies

Table 4: Assessment of key environmental issues associated with the proposed development, their significance and potential for mitigation. Environmental Issue Mitigation Potential Significance of Associated Ecological/Biological Issue Impacts

Damage to ecosystem components and loss of biodiversity Low to Moderate potential for mitigation Moderate Transformation of vegetation

Displacement of fauna Pollution Physical Environment Contamination of air, soil and water resources Moderate to High potential for mitigation Moderate Above ground: 6.2 Air quality – dust, volatile organic compounds, odor Waste Management – litter

Soil Surface water Ground water Socio-Economic Change to the social and economic structure of Katima town Moderate to High potential for mitigation High Employment – includes both the creation of jobs and the possible loss of jobs Feasibility of filling station Safety risks to neighbors: Security risks to neighbors: Increased noise and disturbance

Decrease in property values of neighboring residential area Health Visual impacts View and Sense of place Traffic impacts associated with the location of access to the development and construction activities Increased vehicle traffic through a residential area

Environmental Issues and Associated Impacts

Sub-regulation (GN 30 IN GG 4878 OF 6 FEBRUARY 2012) requires that an assessment of the identified potentially significant impacts be provided. This section therefore provides a description and assessment of the potentially significant impacts associated with the environmental issues identified in Table 3.

6.2.1 Description of Impacts

(a) Ecological/Biological Impacts

1. Transformation of Vegetation Site preparation and shaping will require the permanent removal of vegetation which is just very few trees. However, it has been acknowledged in the SDF and related conservation 29

planning of Daily Country Katima community that this is a sacrificial area, and provision has been made elsewhere for conservation of this habitat type.

2. Displacement of Fauna Site preparation and shaping activities will permanently transform habitat over the approximately 29181 hectors of the development. In addition, disturbance as a result of increased human activity in the immediate vicinity of the site during construction is expected to result in the temporary displacement of fauna from the untransformed area immediately adjacent to the site. As it has been noted with vegetation, it has been acknowledged in conservation planning for Daily country Katima (Town) community that this is a sacrificial area, and provision has been made elsewhere for conservation of this habitat type.

3. Pollution In the context of this project the impact here relates to potential toxicological effects on biological elements (fauna and flora) of the environment. For example: should the underground storage tanks leak it is possible that product could escape into the soil, and eventually accumulate to concentrations capable of affecting plant metabolism or soil organisms. Toxic compounds washed off the site by storm water, e.g. hydrocarbons from parking areas or the filling station forecourt, may negatively impact on ecosystem functioning off site.

The likelihood of leakage related pollution effects occurring is low as current national and industry standards for the manufacture and installation of underground storage tanks and the operation of filling stations include secondary containment measures and the implementation of dedicated monitoring programmers. The potential for impacts associated with spillage is possibly higher, but can be mitigated through: • adoption of a forecourt design which diverts potentially contaminated storm water to a separator; and • Maintenance of spill kit on site for cleaning up larger spills.

(b) Physical Environment Impacts

1. Above Ground Impacts affecting the above ground physical environment which could result from the proposed development include impacts on air quality and impacts relating to waste management.

Air Quality may be divided into physical and chemical aspects. The physical aspect comprises particulates, such as dust and smoke, blown from or released into the atmosphere by an activity. Chemical aspects comprise volatile and non-volatile chemical compounds (including odors) emitted into the atmosphere by activities or processes.

During construction dust from site preparation and shaping activities may be blown into surrounding areas. Mitigation would be through the implementation of dust suppression measures, specification of which will form part of the EMP.

During the operational phase of the development there is likely to be release of volatile organic compounds during refueling operations and exhaust emissions from vehicles visiting the center. Mitigation will be through adherence to relevant standards for the storage and handling of fuels. Ensuring vehicles operate in compliance with applicable exhaust emission standards will also assist in mitigating possible impacts.

Odor nuisance from uncollected wastes emanating from the restaurant and take- away may negatively affect neighboring residents. Mitigation measures include:

• Ensuring that waste handling, storage and collection is undertaken in accordance with the relevant health and municipal legislation, practices and procedures; and •Managing the development in compliance with the relevant environmental, water, and health legislation.

Waste Management includes the management of both solid and liquid waste, and effluent, produced by a facility or an activity.

Litter blown from the development may accumulate in the residential area. The following measures will aid in mitigation of this potential impact: •Ensuring that the design of the development includes adequate facilities for the temporary storage of waste, in terms of volume, location and enclosure; •Ensuring that waste handling, storage and collection is undertaken in accordance with the relevant health and municipal legislation, practices and procedures; • Provision of adequate numbers of litter bins throughout the development; and • Implementation of an appropriate collection and disposal strategy to ensure regular removal of waste to a permitted waste disposal facility.

2. Soil Possible impacts associated with the construction phase include soil erosion and contamination of soil from poorly managed construction materials. Possible impacts associated with the operational phase include soil erosion from poorly designed and managed storm water systems; contamination of soil with petrochemicals from leaking or malfunctioning equipment and spillages.

Mitigation includes: • The implementation of an appropriately designed and constructed storm water management system; • Managing the development in compliance with relevant environmental, water, and health legislation.

3. Surface Water Possible impacts associated with the construction phase include contamination of storm water with hazardous substances such as cement, hydrocarbons from poorly maintained heavy machinery, paints and the like. Possible impacts associated with the operational phase includes contamination of storm water runoff with: spilt hydrocarbons from the forecourt and parking areas; wastes from storage areas associated with the retail component of the development; and litter from public areas of the development.

Mitigation measures include managing the development in compliance with relevant environmental, water, and health legislation.

4. Ground Water Possible impacts are largely associated with the installation and operation of the underground storage tanks for the filling station component of the development. However, owing to the location of the site and the nature of its geology these impacts can be relatively easily managed through adherence to national and industry standards for the installation of underground storage tanks and the operation of filling stations include secondary containment measures and the implementation of dedicated monitoring programmers. Management of the development in compliance with relevant environmental, water, and health legislation will also contribute greatly to the mitigation of potential impacts on ground water.

(c) Socio-Economic Impacts 1. Loss of Employment Opportunities It is possible that the operation of an additional filling station in Katima ,Zambezi region community could lead to one or more of the existing filling stations closing down with an attendant loss of between 8 and 11 jobs. It is, however, predicted in this report that the filling station component of the proposed development will generate 21 jobs. Potential mitigation would be to aim for no net job losses by employing those who may lose jobs due to closure of an existing filling station at the new filling station, which is not the case to happen in Zambezi reioncommunity

2. Creation of Employment Opportunities

It is expected that the proposed development will result in the creation of new employment opportunities. It is anticipated that besides the 10 possible direct employment opportunities associated with construction a further 15 to 20 indirect jobs could be generated during this phase of the development. However, it is unlikely that these entire job opportunities will

accrue to Katima community residents and nearest farmers as well as Daily Country residents as much depends on the sourcing of services and skills. There will be the creation of between 20 permanent jobs associated directly with the operation of the various development components. A further 20 to 30 indirect job opportunities are likely to be generated in other sectors servicing the development, again it is to be expected that some of these indirect opportunities will accrue to areas outside Zambezi region.

Employment opportunities associated with the construction phase are expected to be short duration in nature, whilst those associated with the operational phase are expected to be long duration / sustainable opportunities. Optimizing the number of opportunities for local residents to obtain employment on the project (both construction and operational stages) would enhance the positive aspect of this impact.

3. Economic Feasibility Commercial developments, such as that proposed in this application, carry an inherent risk of economic failure. The principles of integrated environmental management (IEM) seek to protect the environment from the consequences of poorly planned and executed human activities. By ensuring that a development is planned in accordance with both sound business, economic and IEM principles it may be possible to prevent the proliferation of economically non-feasible developments.

In the context of this application, an economic feasibility study of the proposed development has been undertaken. Implementation of the recommendations of this study may assist in mitigating the potential risks to the project.

4. Safety Risks to Neighbors

Potentially these include: •Risks associated with blasting of the sandstone underlying the site, if it is found to be necessary, during construction; and •Explosion and fire during operation of the filling station

Mitigation of these risks can be achieved through compliance with the applicable occupational health and safety regulations; hazardous materials storage and handling regulations; and related national standards.

5. Security Risks to Neighbors

Potential impacts include: • An increase in opportunistic crime associated with an increase in the number of non- residents passing through the neighboring residential area. • Anti-social behavior associated with an increase in the number of non-residents passing through the neighboring residential area.

It should be noted that access to the proposed development is planned to be through trans Kalahari B8 Mpacha road , opposite Oshana camp. The boundary of the

development must therefore be fully enclosed and extra meters from the main road to the filling station. Mitigation of these impacts therefore includes: • Adherence to RA requirements with regard to the control of access to the development; • Implementation of a boundary enclosure design that is impermeable to pedestrian traffic; • Designing the development in such a manner that it is not conducive to overnight parking of vehicles; and • Provision of appropriate and adequate security management measures at the development throughout its operational lifetime.

6. Increased Noise and Disturbance Construction activities are likely to result in increased noise and disturbance to the surrounding area. These levels may be expected to decrease somewhat post construction, but will remain altered from pre-construction levels throughout the operational lifetime of the project.

Increased noise and disturbance associated with people and vehicles moving through the neighboring residential area to and from the development could be associated with the operational phase. This impact is unlikely given the requirements of RA set out in the previous point. Mitigation of these impacts is possible through the following means:

•Ensuring that construction activities only take place during normal working hours; •Designing the development such that operational noise is directed inward to the development and away from the neighboring residential area; and •Adherence to SANRAL requirements with regard to the control of access to the development.

7. Decrease in Property Values

It is possible that there may be a decrease in property values of those even in neighboring residential area that are in close proximity to the site.

Mitigation is possible through the adoption of appropriate planning and design measures, and sensitive management of the development.

8. Health Possible impacts on community health associated with the proposed development are closely related to the management of solid waste from restaurant, fast food and food retail facilities. Improper management and maintenance of sewage systems within the proposed development could potentially result in public health impacts.

Mitigation of these impacts may be achieved through ensuring that the requirements of the relevant health and occupational health and safety legislation are adhered to in both design and operation of the development.

9. Visual Impacts A potential impact associated with the proposed development is light pollution from inappropriately located and directed area and security lights.

The potential for mitigation of this impact is great, particularly at the design stage of the development, through the: • Selection of a design layout that shields the residential area from exposure to the most brightly lit areas; • Selection of an appropriate lighting layout which directs lights inward to the development; and • Sensitive selection of lamp types and wattage.

10. View and Sense of Place These impacts are highly subjective in nature and perception. They may be mitigated to some extent through the use of sensitive design, selection of materials and landscaping.

11. Traffic Impacts

Potential impacts are largely associated with the location of access to the development and, during construction, the movement of heavy vehicles and machinery on the site in the vicinity of the development.

Mitigation may be achieved through: •Location of access points to and from the development so as to ensure that road traffic safety requirements are met; •Implementation of appropriate traffic control measures, both in the design and layout of access points and during construction thereof; and •Adherence to RA requirements.

6.3 Methodology used in determining impact significance

This should be described as follows:

Low: Where the impact would not have an influence on the decision or require to be significantly accommodated in the project design.

Medium: Where the impact could have an influence on the environment, which would require modification of the project design or alternative mitigation.

High: Where it could have a no-go implication for the project irrespective of any possible mitigation.

The significance of the impact should be determined through the following criteria:

(a) Nature of Impact

This includes a brief description of how the proposed activity will impact on the environment.

(b) Extent

This refers to the geographic area on which the activity will have an influence and can include the following extents: • Individual - this applies to a person or persons in and around the study area. • Project site - the immediate location of the activity. • Study area - the proposed area and its immediate environs within a 5 km radius of the activity. • District • Regional • National – Country • International

This refers to the expected timeframe of an impact and can be expressed as: • Short term (0 – 5 years); • Medium (5 – 15 years); • Long term (> 15 years but where the impact ceases after operation); or • Permanent (over 40 years and resulting in a permanent and lasting change that will always be there).

(d) Severity or Intensity

This should describe the level of intensity or severity of the impact in terms of its potential for causing either negative or positive effects and can be described as:

• Low (where no environmental functions and processes are affected); • Medium (where the environment continues to function but in a modified manner); or • High (where environmental functions and processes are altered such that they temporarily or permanently cease).

(e) Probability

This considers the likelihood of the impact occurring and should be described as: • Improbable (low likelihood); • Probable (distinct possibility); • Highly probable (most likely) or • Definite (impact would occur regardless of prevention measures).

6.3.2 Degree of confidence

It is also necessary to indicate the degree of confidence with which one has predicted the significance of an impact, based on the availability of information and specialist knowledge. For this reason, a ‘degree of confidence’ scale has been provided to enable the reader to determine how certain the specialists are of their assessment of significance: • Definite - More than 90% sure of a particular fact. 36

• Probable - Over 70% sure of a particular fact, or of the likelihood of that impact occurring. • Possible - Over 40% sure of a particular fact or of the likelihood of an impact occurring. • Unsure - Less than 40% sure of a particular factor of the likelihood of an impact occurring

6.3.3 Nature of impacts

The nature of the impact must be stated as positive (a benefit), negative (a cost) or neutral.

6.3.4 Other Aspects

Other aspects that should be taken into consideration are: • Impacts should be described both before and after the proposed mitigation and management measures have been implemented;

• All impacts should be evaluated for the full life cycle of the proposed development including construction and operational phases; • The impact evaluation should consider the cumulative effects of other activities which have occurred or are in the process of occurring within the study area; and • Legal requirements (Specialists should identify and list the specific legal and permit requirements that could be relevant to the proposed project).

6.3.5 Mitigation and monitoring

Where negative impacts are identified, specialists should set mitigation measures (ways of reducing impacts). Where no mitigation is feasible, this should be stated and the reasons given. Where positive impacts are identified, ways of enhancing these impacts should also be mentioned. The specialists should set quantifiable standards against which the effectiveness of the mitigation can be measured. This may include input into monitoring and management programmers.

• Construction of adequate and efficient drainage. • Construction.

Environmental pollution

The source of impacts is summarized below source environmental pollution

Source of impact Mitigation

Vehicle emission • Ensure the vehicle switched of while at the filling station. • The potential for the accumulation of emission in the premises is how ever very since the station will be spacious and well aerated.

Oil spills • Fit houses with quick- acting leak- proof or with an approved nozzle. • The underground tank will have two cover layers to prevent underground water pollution in case the first one starts spilling. • Train the supervise staff to ensure minimal spillage of fuel. Lubricant container Proper waste collection, handling and deposal and packaging materials Waste water • Construction • paper drainage system • Treat of water through oil interceptor prior to discharge into the environment. Leakage Use of approve fuel tanks and monitor fuel quantities to detect leakage which have double layer to prevent any leaks from getting into the environment, The tanked should be properly treated, a layer of clay should be used to incase the tanks during installation.

6.3.2 Mitigation and monitoring

APPENDICES

7.1 Environmental Management Plan In accordance with the requirements of Sub-regulation (GN 30 IN GG 4878 OF 6 FEBRUARY 2012) an environmental management plan (EMP) conforming to the requirements of Regulation 34 is included in Appendix A.

7.2 Specialist Reports Copies of the specialist reports undertaken as part of the project design and development process, and this EIA, are included in Appendix B. This Appendix has been further subdivided according to the specific reports as follows: Appendix B-5 Town Planning

7.3 Interested and Affected Parties Correspondence

In accordance with the requirements of Sub-Regulation (GN 30 IN GG 4878 OF 6 FEBRUARY 2012) copies of all correspondence (representations, objections and comments) received from Interested and Affected Parties have been included in Appendix C.

Table 5: Assessment of impacts associated with the proposed development.

SEVERIT DEGREE NATUR ACTIVITY EXTENT DURATION Y / PROBABILITY OF E INTENSI CONFIDE TY NCE DESIGN STAGE IMPACT: Release of volatile organic compounds during refueling operations Negativ Proposed Project Long term Medium Probable High e development site

with no mitigation Proposed development Project Long term Low Improbable High with mitigation: site • Location of filling station on site in relation to sensitive neighboring land users; • Compliance with relevant design standards for fuel storage and handling facilities. No-go alternative Project Long term Low Improbable High site IMPACT: Odor nuisance from waste materials storage areas Negativ Proposed Project Long term Medium Probable High e development site with no mitigation Proposed development Project Long term Low Improbable High with mitigation: site • Ensure that waste handling and temporary storage facilities included in design conform to legislated requirements; • Ensure that design of waste handling and temporary storage facilities takes cognizance of municipal waste collection practices and procedures No-go alternative Project Long term Low Improbable High site IMPACT: Litter dispersion from development into neighboring areas Negativ Proposed Project Long term Low Probable High e development site with no mitigation Proposed development Project Long term Low Improbable High with mitigation: site • Ensure that the design of the development includes adequate facilities for the temporary storage of waste, in terms of volume,

SEVERIT DEGREE NATUR ACTIVITY EXTENT DURATION Y / PROBABILITY OF E INTENSI CONFIDE TY NCE Location and enclosure. No-go alternative Project Long term Low Improbable High site IMPACT: Safety risk to neighbors of explosion and fire during operation of the filling station Negativ Proposed Project Long term Medium Probable High e development site with no mitigation Proposed development Project Long term Low Improbable High with mitigation: site • Comply with the applicable occupational health and safety regulations; hazardous materials storage and handling regulations ; and related national standards relevant to design of a filling station No-go alternative Project Long term Low Improbable High site IMPACT: Increased vehicle traffic through a residential area Negativ Proposed Project Permanent Low Highly High e development site Probable with no mitigation Proposed development Project Permanent Low Improbable High with mitigation: site • Roads authority does not permit developments with direct access to national roads to have access to or to provide access to other road systems. The boundary of the development must therefore be fully enclosed. Adhere to SANRAL Requirements. No-go alternative Project Permanent Low Definite High site IMPACT: Increased security risk to neighboring residential area as a result of greater numbers of people passing through the area; both in terms of opportunistic crime and anti-social behavior Negativ Proposed Project Permanent Medium Highly Medium e development site Probable with no mitigation

Proposed development Project Permanent Low Highly Medium with mitigation: site Probable • Adhere to roads authority requirements with regard to the control of access to the development. Implement a Boundary enclosure design that is impermeable to pedestrian traffic.

SEVERIT DEGREE NATURE ACTIVITY EXTENT DURATION Y / PROBABILITY OF SIGNIFICAN INTENSI CONFIDE CE TY NCE • Provide pedestrian walkway along N6 connecting to existing walkway to the site. No-go alternative Project Medium Low Probable Medium Low site IMPACT: Increased noise and disturbance associated with people and vehicles moving through the neighboring residential area to and from the development Negativ Proposed Project Permanent Medium Probable Medium Medium e development site with no mitigation Proposed development Project Permanent Low Improbable Medium Low with mitigation: site • Adhere to roads authority requirements With regard to the control of access to the development. No-go alternative Project Medium Low Improbable Medium Low site IMPACT: Health Negativ Proposed Project Permanent Medium Probable Medium Low e development site with no mitigation Proposed development Project Permanent Low Improbable Medium Low with mitigation: site • Ensure that the requirements of the relevant health and occupational health and safety legislation are adhered to in both design and 43

Operation of the development.

No-go alternative Project Medium Low Improbable Medium Low site IMPACT: Increased noise and associated disturbance from the development Negativ Proposed Project Permanent Medium Highly High Medium e development site Probable with no mitigation Proposed development Project Permanent Low Probable High Low with mitigation: site • Design the development such that operational noise is directed inward to the development and away from the neighboring residential area. • If site alternative 1 is selected - construct a wall on that portion of the site boundary which runs along The goods receiving bays of the retail component. No-go alternative Project Medium Low Improbable High Low site

SEVERIT DEGREE NATURE ACTIVITY EXTENT DURATION Y / PROBABILITY OF SIGNIFICAN INTENSI CONFIDE CE TY NCE IMPACT: Light pollution from the development affecting the neighboring residential area Negativ Proposed Project Permanent Medium Highly High Medium e development site Probable with no mitigation Proposed development Project Permanent Low Probable High Low with mitigation: site • Selection of appropriate lighting layout, lamp types and wattage. No-go alternative Project Medium Low Improbable High Low site IMPACT: Changed view over the site and altered sense of place Nega Proposed Study Permanent Low Definite High Medium tive, development area and Positiv with no e mitigation Proposed development Study Permanent Low Definite High Low with mitigation: area • These highly subjective impacts may be mitigated to some extent Through sensitive design, materials selection and landscaping. No-go alternative Study Medium Low Definite Low Low area IMPACT: Decreased property values of neighboring residential area Negativ Proposed Project Long term Medium Probable Medium Low e development site with no mitigation

Proposed development Project Long term Medium Probable Medium Low with mitigation: site • Adopt appropriate planning and design measures, such as use of Vegetated buffers between the site boundary and residential area. No-go alternative Project Medium Medium Improbable Medium Low site IMPACT: Traffic impacts associated with the location of access to the development Negative Proposed Project Permanent High Definite High Medium development site with no mitigation Proposed development with Project Permanent Low Probable High Low mitigation: site • Locate access points to and from the development such as to ensure that road traffic safety requirements are met. No-go alternative Project Permanent Low Improbable High Low site

SEVERIT DEGREE NATURE ACTIVITY EXTENT DURATION Y / PROBABILITY OF SIGNIFICAN INTENSI CONFIDE CE TY NCE

CONSTRUCTION STAGE IMPACT: Dust from construction activities, which may be blown into surrounding areas Negativ Proposed Project Short term Medium Highly High Medium e development site Probable with no mitigation Proposed development Project Short term Low Probable High Low with mitigation: site • Implement dust suppression measures, specification of these will form part of the EMP. No-go alternative Project Medium Low Improbable High Low site IMPACT: Creation of employment opportunities Positive Proposed Study Short term Medium Highly High Medium development area Probable with no mitigation Proposed development Study Short term High Definite High Medium with mitigation: area • Maximize use of local contractors and labor No-go alternative Study Medium Low Improbable High Low area IMPACT: Safety risks to neighbors if blasting of the sandstone underlying the site is necessary Negativ Proposed Project Short term Medium Probable High Low e development site with no mitigation

Proposed development Project Short term Low Improbable High Low with mitigation: site • Compliance with the applicable occupational health and safety regulations; hazardous materials storage and handling regulations; and related national standards No-go alternative Project Medium Low Improbable High Low site IMPACT: Increased noise and construction associated disturbance Negativ Proposed Project Short term Medium Highly High Medium e development site Probable with no mitigation Proposed development Project Short term Low Probable High Low with mitigation: site • Ensure that construction activities Only take place during normal working hours. No-go alternative Project Medium Low Improbable High Low site IMPACT: Traffic impacts associated with construction activities Negativ Proposed Project Short term Medium Highly High Medium e development site Probable with no

SEVERIT DEGREE NATURE ACTIVITY EXTENT DURATION Y / PROBABILITY OF SIGNIFICAN INTENSI CONFIDE CE TY NCE Mitigation Proposed development Project Short term Low Probable High Low with mitigation: site • Ensure that road traffic safety requirements are met No-go alternative Project Medium Low Improbable High Low site IMPACT: Transformation of vegetation Negativ Proposed Project Permanent High Definite High Low e development site with no mitigation Proposed development Project Permanent Medium Definite High Low with mitigation: site • Stockpile topsoil for use in site rehabilitation and landscaping • Restrict work areas to the minimum necessary and retain vegetation cover outside these areas No-go alternative Project Medium Low Highly High Low site Probable IMPACT: Displacement of fauna Negativ Proposed Project Permanent High Definite High Low e development site with no mitigation Proposed development Project Permanent Medium Definite High Low with mitigation: site

• Relocate specimens found on site to suitable habitat offsite No-go alternative Project Medium Low Highly High Low site Probable IMPACT: Soil erosion Negativ Proposed Project Short term Medium Highly High Low e development site Probable with no mitigation Proposed development Project Short term Low Probable High Low with mitigation: site • Implement appropriate storm water control and management measures No-go alternative Project Medium Low Probable High Low site IMPACT: Contamination of surface water Negativ Proposed Study Short term Medium Highly High Low e development area Probable with no mitigation Proposed development Study Short term Low Probable High Low with mitigation: area • Implement appropriate waste management strategies • Implement appropriate storm water

SEVERIT DEGREE NATURE ACTIVITY EXTENT DURATION Y / PROBABILITY OF SIGNIFICAN INTENSI CONFIDE CE TY NCE control and management measures No-go alternative Study Medium Low Improbable High Low area IMPACT: Soil Negativ Proposed Project Short term Medium Probable High Low e development site with no mitigation Proposed development Project Short term Low Improbable High Low with mitigation: site • Manage construction in compliance with the relevant environmental, water and occupational health and safety legislation. • Manage construction activities in accordance with the accepted / approved construction EMP. • Actively monitor and manage soil erosion and dust. • Remove and stockpile topsoil for use in site rehabilitation and landscaping. 51

• Where possible and practical limit the exposure of soil to the minimum Necessary for working area at any one time.

No-go alternative Project Medium Low Improbable High Low site IMPACT: Surface and ground water Negativ Proposed Study Short term Medium Highly High Low e development area Probable with no mitigation Proposed development Study Short term Low Probable High Low with mitigation: area • Manage construction in compliance with the relevant environmental, water and occupational health and safety legislation. • Manage construction activities in accordance with the accepted / approved construction EMP. • Implement an appropriate storm

water management system to

SEVERIT DEGREE NATURE ACTIVITY EXTENT DURATION Y / PROBABILITY OF SIGNIFICAN INTENSI CONFIDE CE TY NCE Control runoff over the site. • Provide appropriate waste collection strategies and storage facilities and ensure they are used. • Ensure that hazardous materials used in construction are securely stored in appropriate storage facilities. • Ensure that the use and disposal of hazardous materials is in Conformance with the relevant safety regulations and procedures. No-go alternative Study Medium Low Improbable High Low area OPERATIONAL STAGE IMPACT: Release of volatile organic compounds during refueling operations and exhaust emissions of vehicles visiting the center Negativ Proposed development Project Permanent Medium Definite High Low e with no mitigation site

Proposed development Project Permanent Low Probable High Low with mitigation: site • Adhere to relevant standards for the storage and handling of fuels. • Ensure vehicles operate in compliance with applicable exhaust Emission standards. No-go alternative Project Medium Low Improbable High Low site IMPACT: Odor nuisance from uncollected wastes emanating from the restaurant and take-away will negatively affect neighboring residents Negativ Proposed Project Permanent Medium Probable High Low e development site with no mitigation Proposed development Project Permanent Low Improbable High Low with mitigation: site • Ensure that waste handling, storage and collection is undertaken in accordance with the relevant health and municipal legislation, practices and procedures No-go alternative Project Medium Low Improbable High Low site IMPACT: Litter blown from the development may accumulate in the residential area Negativ Proposed Project Permanent Medium Probable High Low e development site with no

SEVERIT DEGREE NATURE ACTIVITY EXTENT DURATION Y / PROBABILITY OF SIGNIFICAN INTENSI CONFIDE CE TY NCE Mitigation Proposed development Project Permanent Low Improbable High Low with mitigation: site • Provide adequate numbers of litter bins throughout the development and implement an appropriate collection and disposal strategy to ensure regular removal of waste to a permitted waste disposal facility • Ensure that waste handling, storage and collection is undertaken in accordance with the relevant health and municipal legislation, practices and procedures No-go alternative Project Medium Low Improbable High Low site IMPACT: Employment – includes both the creation of jobs and the possible loss of jobs Positi Proposed Study Long term Low Definite High Medium ve development area and Nega with no tive mitigation 56

Proposed development Study Long term Medium Definite High Medium with mitigation: area • Develop and maintain a database of job opportunities and locally available skills, i.e. establish a local Employment desk. No-go alternative Study Medium Low Improbable High Low area IMPACT: Safety risks to neighbors: Explosion and fire during operation of the filling station Negativ Proposed Project Permanent Medium Probable High Low e development site with no mitigation Proposed development Project Permanent Low Improbable High Low with mitigation: site • Compliance with the applicable occupational health and safety regulations; hazardous materials storage and handling regulations; and related national standards No-go alternative Project Medium Low Improbable High Low site IMPACT: Security risks to neighbors: Negativ Proposed Project Medium Medium Probable High Low e development site with no

SEVERIT DEGREE NATURE ACTIVITY EXTENT DURATION Y / PROBABILITY OF SIGNIFICAN INTENSI CONFIDE CE TY NCE Mitigation Proposed development Project Medium Low Improbable High Low with mitigation: site • Provide appropriate and adequate security management measures at the development • Monitor and maintain boundary enclosure No-go alternative Project Medium Low Improbable High Low site IMPACT: Decrease in property values of neighboring residential area Negativ Proposed Project Medium Medium Probable Low Low e development site with no mitigation Proposed development Project Medium Low Improbable Low Low with mitigation: site • Monitor and maintain boundary enclosure in good repair • Maintain screening vegetation and soft landscaping in good health • Maintain active security presence on site in order to discourage anti- social behavior on site and prevent spill over into surrounding areas 58

• Monitor on-site waste management strategies and facilities and ensure timeouts implementation of corrective action

No-go alternative Project Medium Low Improbable Medium Low site IMPACT: Health Negativ Proposed Project Medium Medium Probable High Low e development site with no mitigation Proposed development Project Medium Low Improbable High Low with mitigation: site • Ensure management of the development adheres to and implements relevant procedures and practices to safeguard community health No-go alternative Project Medium Low Improbable High Low site

SEVERIT DEGREE NATURE ACTIVITY EXTENT DURATION Y / PROBABILITY OF SIGNIFICAN INTENSI CONFIDE CE TY NCE IMPACT: Noise and associated disturbance Negativ Proposed Project Medium Medium Probable High Low e development site with no mitigation Proposed development Project Medium Low Improbable High Low with mitigation: site • Actively manage the development in such a manner as to discourage Undesirable or negative social behavior. No-go alternative Project Medium Low Improbable High Low site IMPACT: Pollution Negativ Proposed Project Long term Medium Probable High Low e development site with no mitigation Proposed development Project Long term Low Improbable High Low with mitigation: site • Manage the development in compliance with relevant environmental, water, and health Legislation. No-go alternative Project Medium Low Improbable High Low site IMPACT: Above ground Negativ Proposed Project Permanent Medium Probable High Low e development site 60

with no mitigation Proposed development Project Permanent Low Improbable High Low with mitigation: site • Manage the development in compliance with relevant environmental, water, and health Legislation. No-go alternative Project Medium Low Improbable High Low site IMPACT: Soil Negativ Proposed Project Permanent Medium Probable High Low e development site with no mitigation Proposed development Project Permanent Low Improbable High Low with mitigation: site • Manage the development in compliance with relevant Environmental, water, and health legislation. No-go alternative Project Medium Low Improbable High Low site

SEVERITY DEGREE NATURE ACTIVITY EXTENT DURATION / PROBABILITY OF SIGNIFICANC INTENSIT CONFIDE E Y NCE IMPACT: Surface water Negativ Proposed Study Permanent Medium Probable High Low e development area with no mitigation Proposed development Study Permanent Low Improbable High Low with mitigation: area • Manage the development in compliance with relevant Environmental, water, and health legislation. No-go alternative Study Medium Low Improbable High Low area IMPACT: Ground water Negativ Proposed Study Permanent Medium Probable High Low e development area with no mitigation Proposed development Study Permanent Low Improbable High Low with mitigation: area • Manage the development in compliance with relevant environmental, water, and health Legislation. No-go alternative Study Medium Low Improbable High Low area

Site Roads 1. Access from trans Kalahari road 2. Traffic Impact Assessment to provide details of requirements wart. Widening, slip lanes, traffic circles. 3. Internal roadways and parking areas will be surfaced and designed to municipal standards. 4. Layout of internal roads will meet the requirements of all vehicle types w.r.t. minimum turning trans Kalahari road width, etc. 5. Road pavement design will be undertaken at detailed design stage.

63 63 Site Alternative 1 This site. 3. It has been confirmed with the electricity supplier of Katima town Municipality, that take off will be from one of the two lines traversing site alternative 2. This will require the main supply cable to cross beneath the roads, which will require permission from road authority. 4. It has also been confirmed that the lines have the necessary capacity, subject to minor upgrade of the substation feeding the existing HV lines. 5. However, the requirements of nampower energy savings policy could result in Katima Municipality only being able to supply 30% of the 340 kVA Notified Maximum Demand. This is likely to constrain electricity supply to the proposed development. 6. The incorporation of energy efficient equipment and alternative energy sources in the design of the proposed development Will assist in obtaining the required saving/reduction in demand. Electricity: Low Voltage This will be an underground cable Network network Supplied from a mini-substation.

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1. A separate underground cable Electricity: Street Lighting network and control gear to that of the LV network will be utilized. 2. Decorative post top type lights with a pole mounting height of 3 m or 3.5 m are proposed. 3. Although the load estimate for street lighting was based on the use of 70 W HPS lamps, energy savings may be achieved through the use of 50 W or 26 W lamps. This will have the added benefit of reducing the level of light pollution

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Site Alternative 1

Experienced by neighboring areas.

Telecommunications 1. Internal network will Network comprise an underground cable/conduit system designed and installed to Telkom standards. 2. The network will be located within the road reserves of the internal road network, and will connect to the existing Telkom bulk network.

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7.4 Economic

The main findings of the economic feasibility and impact assessment specialized report: 1. There is no extra space needed for the proposed project approximately additional .The types of retail businesses for which there is greatest demand include restaurant, branded take-away, supermarket, clothing, hardware, and personal care.

2. There is currently insufficient demand to sustain a further filling station without negatively impacting on at least one of the existing filling stations in future. However, this is true for the medium term only, i.e. until 2020, thereafter feasibility would have to be reassessed.

3. A one phased approach to the development should be adopted, with the filling station and the retail shop at once.

4. The retail component of the proposed development on its own is not economically feasible. The presence of a filling station would enhance its feasibility.

5. Economic impacts associated with construction of the project include:

Imp Nature Mitigat act ion

Increase in new business Both direct and indirect. Procure construction sales during construction Generated through materials, goods and capital expenditure that products from local shocks the economy. suppliers as far as is Results in increase in feasible; economic activities of Employ local contractors directly and indirectly where possible. affected businesses Increase Geographic Both direct and indirect. Employ local companies Product (GGP) Generated through and suppliers where capital expenditure that possible. shocks the economy. Results in increase in economic activities of directly and indirectly affected businesses Employment Both direct and indirect. Employ labor intensive Results in an increase in construction methods; economic activities of Employ local directly and indirectly residentsand affected businesses, communities where which leads to the possible; subsequent creation of Sub-contract to local newemployment construction companies opportunities where possible; Utilize local suppliers where possible Government Revenue Both direct and N/a indirect.Increased economic activity results in an increase In taxes paid by all the companies involved in construction.

6. Economic impacts associated with operation of the project include:

Impact Nature Mitigat ion Increase in new business Impact is generated As far as is possible sales through annual operating materials, goods and expenditure of the products required for the commercial components operation of businesses of the proposed within the development development. They should be procured from stimulate economic local suppliers. activities of directly and indirectly affected businesses, which

Impact Nature Mitigation

Leads to new business sales. Increase in GGP Impact is generated As far as is possible through annual materials, goods and operating expenditure products required for the of the commercial operation of businesses components of the within the development proposed development. should be procured from They stimulate economic local suppliers. activities of directly and indirectly affected businesses, which Leads to the generation of added value. Employment Impact results from Maintain a database of operational expenditure available positions at the of commercial Petrol Park and a components of the database of proposed development employment seekers at and businesses indirectly the project-affected affected by operations. community. The operation will create Encourage local sustainable employment residents to apply for opportunities at directly available positions at the created new businesses Petrol Park. and at businesses Local Municipality to indirectly affected by establish link with operations. relevant SETA’s and government departments that can provide training In the identified business and employment creation sectors. Government Revenue Impact is generated N/a through operational expenditure into the economy. It results in an annual increase in taxes paid by all businesses operating from the Petroleum Park as well as associated/supporting businesses

Lease payments paid by Municipality needs to

a potential owner of the ensure that it receives development will maximum benefit from increase municipal the operation of the income. development through rates, taxes and lease payments. At the same time, it needs to ensure that the business owner or developer is not financially burdened by municipal payments so that the development is Unsustainable. Retail in Katima Zambezi Could be a degree of Ensure that the region, daily country negative impact on development offers existing retailers within. retail opportunities for However, it is expected which there is a demand that there will be a in Katima town that is greater positive impact not currently met. through reduction of the Ensure that the proposed current high levels of development is easily retail leakage f town. It is accessible to passing also expected that the trade. development will draw a larger portion of the transient market passing through the town. Impact is therefore expected to positive overall. Existing Filling Stations Development of a new It is possible if one or filling station in Katima is more of the existing filling expected to have a stations were to close detrimental impact on that the employees of existing filling stations these filling stations shell which is could be accommodated as employees at the new filling station as they would possess the relevant skills and experience. Alternatively, an existing filling station could be encouraged to relocate to the proposed development. However, this is unlikely to happen

given the landownership of existing filling stations and the landownership model of the

7. The retail component of the proposed development should have between 2 in one shop, and as a minimum comprise a convenience SHOP

8 ASSUMPTIONS, UNCERTAINTIES AND GAPS IN KNOWLEDGE

1. Given that no specific fuel company or retail suppliers are associated with the proposed development it is difficult to provide exact details of the various project components. For this reason, it has been necessary to base the assessment of environmental impacts associated with the proposed development on a generic design for a mixed retail and filling station centre. 2. If a site alternative to the selected one is the preferred alternative, a number of permissions for component or supporting activities of the proposed development will be required. These include permission from municipality for: • access from to the development. These permissions, currently under negotiation, in part hinge on the outcome of the application for environmental authorization and its associated EIA process. 3. Uncertainty exists regarding the capacity of the Katima ,Zambezi community waste water treatment works (WWTW) to handle the additional sewage load from the proposed development. It is understood from other town planning staff and the compilers of the report that the plant is currently in the process of the site proposed being upgraded. Once this upgrade is completed it is expected that the WWTW will be able to handle the expected increased volume of sewage. 4. Layouts assessed as part of this EIA were all predicated on the assumption that the development will not be phased, and that construction of all components will be undertaken simultaneously. 5. A limitation of the economic impact study is that the potential effect of the proposed development on surrounding property values was not explicitly addressed. This, however, should not constitute a fatal flaw as the potential for the development to affect property values is likely to be determined as much by the manner in which the development is managed as by its layout and design.

9 ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT STATEMENT

This chapter seeks to fulfill the requirements of GN, Sub-regulation (GN 30 IN GG 4878 OF FEBRUARY 2012) with respect to the provision of an opinion as to whether the activity should or should not be authorized; and sub- regulation (GN 30 IN GG 4878 OF FEBRUARY 2012) with respect to the provision of an environmental impact statement.

Opinion on authorization of activity

The order of preference of the site is as follows:

It is the opinion of Advance Environmental Agency that the development may be authorized. This recommendation is made purely on environmental grounds and does not take business competition issues into consideration.

Any authorization granted should be conditional. In the first instance it should recognize that the project may be undertaken in a one phased manner; and that there will be no rezoning of ERF 3133.

For this reason, consideration should be given to a period of validity in the order of 36 months.

It is further recommended that consideration be given to attaching the following conditions to any authorization granted: 1. The development should take place on site in daily country in Katima town opposite Oshana camp. 2. Authorization should be valid for a period of 6 months. In this time period construction of some part of the project should commence, but the full project would not necessarily be completed; 3. Design and layout of both vehicular and pedestrian access to and from through trans Kalahari should be in accordance with RA requirements; 4. The EMP should be amended to reflect specific requirements of the conditions of authorization where necessary; 5. Design of the development should include means to ensure that parking at the retail component cannot be used for over knighting by heavy vehicles, whilst ensuring that the filling station component can operate on a 24-hour basis. 6. When the filling station component is constructed it will, of necessity, conform to the relevant SABS standards with respect to underground storage tanks, piping and fuel dispensing. It is nevertheless recommended that conditions of authorization should include clear requirements for leak detection, recording and reporting;

7. Final site layout and design proposals should be submitted to the competent authority for review against the requirements of the conditions of authorization.

8. Conditions of authorization pertinent to the operation of the filling station should form part of any lease or sale agreement for the filling station component of the development; 9. Conditions of authorization relevant to the management of the overall development should form part of any lease or sale agreement between the landowner and developer.

Layout

A number of alternative layouts were considered before arriving at the proposed layout submitted in support of the town planning application, and which has been taken as the preferred layout for the purposes of this report. Issues taken into consideration in the development of the layout included:

• Access to the development through the trans Kalahari B8 Road • Access to the ADM Emergency Services depot; • Visibility of the tourism component from the entrance to the development; • Number of parking bays; • Vehicle movement through the development; • Pedestrian movement through the development; • Pedestrian access to the development; and • Storm water management.

The proposed layout represents the best compromise achievable given the diversity of demands on the allocated space. In addition, it makes effective use of existing transformed areas thus minimizing the use of undisturbed or less disturbed natural areas. In and of itself this reduces the overall negative environmental impact of the development

Design

A number of requirements from diverse quarters have been taken into account or will need to be taken into account in the design of project components. These include: • RA requirement that a development with access to and from a national road must not be accessible from or enable access to any other road. To this end the entire site will be enclosed by a palisade fence. • Safe access to and from the ADM Emergency Services depot. • Use of lower wattage lamps for street lighting in the development in order to reduce energy consumption. • Use of double flush toilets in all ablution facilities in order to reduce water consumption and reduce the quantity of sewerage produced.

As the project is currently at the concept design phase it will still be possible to influence its detailed design with respect to a number of other environmentally related design decisions such as landscaping design and materials, storm water management systems and so on.

Social Impacts

A number of possible social impacts were identified during the scoping phase, these largely focused on issues of safety, security, nuisance, and visual. The majority of these impacts can be mitigated through the adoption of sensitive layout and design principles, which has been demonstrated in the proposed layout. The implementation of these principles may be further reinforced through the imposition and enforcement of appropriate conditions of authorization. No-Go

Impacts associated with the no-go alternative may be divided into localized impacts, which will affect the site and its immediate neighbors, and broader local impacts, which will affect the site and the wide Daily Country Katima community. Localized impacts of the no-go alternative will be felt immediately, i.e. have a short return period for their effects to become apparent. Broader local impacts associated with the no-go alternative will take longer to become apparent and have more complex socio- economic implications.

10 APPENDICES

10.1 Environmental Management Plan In accordance with the requirements of Sub-regulation (GN 30 IN GG 4878 OF 6 FEBRUARY 2012) an environmental management plan (EMP) conforming to the requirements of Regulation 34 is included in Appendix A.

10.2 Specialist Reports Copies of the specialist reports undertaken as part of the project design and development process, and this EIA, are included in Appendix B. This Appendix has been further subdivided according to the specific reports as follows: Appendix B-5 Town Planning

10.3 Interested and Affected Parties Correspondence