E2018 v2 rev

Public Disclosure Authorized Environmental & Social Impact Assessment Report for the al- Menya Landfill

Southern West Bank Solid Waste Management Program Public Disclosure Authorized Public Disclosure Authorized

Southern West Bank Joint Service Council for Solid Waste Management Public Disclosure Authorized

Municipal Development and Lending Fund The World Bank April 2009 Final Environmental & Social Impact Assessment Report for the al- Menya Landfilland Associated Infrastructure

Southern West Bank Solid Waste Management Program

April 7, 2009

Southern West Bank Joint Service Council for Solid Waste Management in Hebron and Bethlehem file : B3671 01 001 registration number : version : 4 Municipal Development and Lending Fund The World Bank April 2009 Final

Original document prepared by DHV BV partnering with the Palestinian Hydrology Group. This version revised and updated by Raymond Colley and Jacob Avraham

Contextual Summary

In the southern West Bank area, i.e. Bethlehem and Hebron governorates, improperly regulated dumpsites for the disposal of municipal solid waste have led to unacceptable environmental degradation. As a response to this deteriorating situation, the Solid Waste and Environmental Management Project (SWEMP) has been initiated.

The initial concept for the design of project activities has been established in the Feasibility Study (FS) and Basic Design (BD), prepared in parallel with this ESIA study. The FS has proposed a concept for a regional waste management system focusing on a regional landfill site in area of the al-Menya local council and a transfer station south of the city of Hebron.

In theory, local authorities are responsible for solid waste collection and disposal in the West Bank. There are a number of communities, however, for which there is no municipal authority or village council. Also local authorities have been slow to obey the law, perhaps due to lack of capacity and conflicting priorities. Joint Services Councils (JSCs) for Solid Waste Management have been established to coordinate Solid Waste Management (SWM) across larger areas. For this project a combined Joint Service Council for Hebron and Bethlehem Governorates(JSC-H&B) been formed and is the Project Proponent. It consists of both JSC of Hebron Governorate and JSC of Bethlehem Governorate.

Currently most of the solid waste from Hebron Governorate and from some villages in Bethlehem Governorate is dumped at the dumping site at Yatta. Solid waste from Israeli settlements in Hebron, from the UNRWA-managed refugee camps, and some industrial waste is also taken to the dumpsite. In all, between 50 and 60 trucks with average capacity around 8 tons discharge at the site daily.

Based on the present population and forecasts for the Hebron and Bethlehem governorates, as well as the estimates and forecasts for the waste generation per capita, the total annual waste generation over the project period can be calculated as about 4,9 million m³ over a 20 year period. There are major environmental and social effects of the existing waste disposal system. These include air and water pollution, land degradation, and harm to the health and livelihood practices of vulnerable groups (the child waste-pickers). The high potential for environmental impacts associated with the current environmentally unsecured disposal methods arises principally due to:

• Poor original selection of the dump sites (based on convenience rather than environmental acceptability); • Limited control over site access and hence over waste-picking, waste burning and illegal dumping; • Absence of control over emissions of pollutants released from waste decomposition.

Contamination of surface water (wadis) and groundwater resources via uncontrolled discharges of rainwater runoff and leachate is of most concern. Analyses of leachate obtained from three of the largest existing dump sites confirm the significant potential that exists for the contamination of surface water and groundwater resources via uncontrolled discharges of leachate.

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 1 - Similarly, residential communities adjacent to dump sites are affected by the practice of burning waste on-site, resulting in thick plumes of smoke with comparatively high concentrations of particulate matter, including toxic substances released, but not destroyed by, low-temperature burning. The same communities are impacted also by odor generated by decomposing waste that attracts large numbers of vermin and pests. Continuing disposal of waste via uncontrolled dump sites will only serve to exacerbate these impacts throughout the region as the number of dump sites proliferate in order to accommodate the increasing quantities of MSW generated.

Notwithstanding that open dumping is the least cost financial solution for dealing with waste for disposal it is apparent that continued open dumping is not sustainable from practical, social and environmental considerations. Some form of strategic approach to the area’s waste disposal requirements needs to be taken. Hence, the project objectives include:

1. To improve solid waste management in Hebron and Bethlehem Governorates 2. To reduce the environmental pollution risks, especially the pollution of water sources. 3. To maximize the potential social and environmental benefits and improve public health status 4. To improve air quality through eliminating gas and smoke release from the unsanitary dumping sites. 5. To improve the aesthetic view of the landscape.

The identification of the new landfill site and the location and design of the transfer station were the result of an extensive site selection and consultation process. The preferred landfill site was chosen due to its location approximately midway between the two governorates to be served by the project and because the geology, surrounding land uses and ecological setting all indicated that the potential for significant negative environmental and social impacts was less than at other sites. The site technical specifications are the best of those visited and there are no significant difficulties anticipated with regard to land lease or ownership transfer. However. the site falls in Area ‘C’ of the West Bank. Infrastructure projects, including solid waste disposal sites, require approval of the Civil Administration of the State of Israel prior to receiving construction permits, and under the same approvals procedures, water supply and water/sewage treatment facilities, reservoirs, dams, drainage channels and electrical installations all require approval of the Israeli authorities prior to construction. Some of these types of infrastructure may be required for the completion of the currently proposed project.

A transfer station needs to be situated near a waste collection area where the refuse collection vehicles can discharge their load for reloading onto larger vehicles for economic transport to the landfill. Transfer stations are used to optimize the efficiency of waste collection and transport systems. The selected site is in the southern industrial zone of Hebron City, a distance of around 25 km to the al-Menya landfill, to serve municipalities in the southern region of Hebron, the southern neighborhoods of Hebron City and the Southern industrial zone of Hebron City. The land is completely owned by Hebron municipality. It is about 1,000 meters from the main road (road 60) which connect all the major cities it the West Bank and runs close by the landfill.

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 2 - The particular environmental and social issues which are most likely to give rise to the most significant impacts or were of greatest concern in the context of this project were the following.

• Land use: the effects of the project on land uses and values

• Impacts related to potential ground and surface water contamination by waste water, surface drainage and the water passing through and around the project sites.

• Socio-economic and cultural impacts on a large number of individuals who enter the old landfill site and collect valuable wastes for resale

• Traffic Impacts: The movements of large vehicles, sometimes on small roads

• General Environmental Quality: Effects in terms of odor and air quality impacts, noise, visual and landscape impacts, vermin, etc. if the facilities are not operated in accordance with good practice.

• Potential impact of landfill gas: Landfill gas poses significant risks to human, animal and plant health and life.

Accordingly, the study has investigated how the design will incorporate measures to minimize these risks, and assessed the residual impact.

An Environmental and Social Management Plan (ESMP) has been developed as a link between the management and mitigation measures specified in this report and the proper implementation and management of the measures during the construction and operation of the project. It summarizes the anticipated environmental and social impacts and provides details on the measures responsibilities and scheduling to mitigate these impacts; the costs of mitigation; and, the ways in which implementation and effectiveness of the measures will be monitored and supervised.

The measures required by the ESMP will be incorporated in a series of documents that will be linked through the ESPM and the associated Monitoring Plan. These documents are as follows. • Contract Documents prepared for firms bidding to work on major project construction activities (i.e. the construction of the landfill, the construction of the transfer station, and the closure of the Yatta site) forming a binding contractual obligation that specifies not just design features but, where the ESMP so requires, management of workers, vehicles, machinery, operating times, methods of working, complaints management etc. • Operational contracts (i.e. the operation of the landfill, the operation of the transfer station, and the operation of the collection vehicles). These binding contractual obligations will specify, where the ESMP so requires, site management and maintenance routines, employment practices, vehicle routes, operating times, methods of working, complaints management etc.

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 3 - • The agreement of the JSC-H&B to manage the project. This will include a monitoring plan for noise, dust, and water. A supervision plan to check the progress and effectiveness of the environmental and social mitigation measures. Arrangements to implement the provisions of the Abbreviated Resettlement Action Plans, and provisions to implement a training program in environmental management, for national and local government officials.

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 4 - LIST OF ABBREVIATIONS

BD Basic Design CBO Community Based Organization EIA Environmental Impact Assessment EPD Environmental Planning Directorate EQA Environmental Quality Authority ERM Environmental Resources Management ESIA Environmental & Social Impact Assessment ESMP Environmental and Social Management Plan EU European Union FS Feasibility Study HDPE high-density polyethylene HPC Higher Planning Council IEE Initial Environmental Evaluation JSC Joint Service Council JSC-H&B Joint Service Council for Hebron and Bethlehem Governorates LA Local Authority LEL Lower Explosive Limit MDLF Municipal Development and Lending Fund MEnA Ministry of Environmental Affairs MoD Ministry of Defense (Israeli) MoF Ministry of Finance MoH Ministry of Health MoI Ministry of Industry MoJ Ministry of Justice MoLG Ministry of Local Government MoPIC Ministry of Planning and International Co-operation MSW Municipal Solid Waste MSWM Municipal Solid Waste Management NGO Non Governmental Organization NIS New Israeli Shekel NSR Noise Sensitive Receivers PA Palestinian Authority PCBS Palestinian Central Bureau of Statistics PEnA Palestinian Environmental Authority PES Palestinian Environmental Strategy PHG Palestinian Hydrology Group PHRD Policy and Human Resource Development PIALES Palestinian Institute for Arid Lands and Environmental Studies PIU Project Implementation Unit PM Program Manager PMT Project Management Team PTL Project Team Leader PWA Palestinian Water Authority RCV Refuse Collection Vehicle RCV Refuse Collection Vehicle RORO Roll-On-Roll Off

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 5 - S/W South/West SW Solid Waste SWBSWMP Southern West Bank Solid Waste Management Project SWEMP Solid Waste and Environment Management Project SWM Solid Waste Management SWMP Solid Waste Management Project ToR Terms of Reference ToU Technical Operations Unit UEL Upper Explosive limit UNEP United Nations Environment Program UNRWA United Nations Relief and Works Agency WB World Bank

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 6 - CONTENTS PAGE

1 INTRODUCTION 2

1.1 BACKGROUND 2 1.2 PROJECT OBJECTIVES 2 1.3 ESIA APPROACH AND METHODOLOGY 3 1.3.1 The Project Planning Cycle 3 1.3.2 Status of the Design Proposals 3 1.3.3 Assessment and Mitigation of Significant Impacts 3 1.3.4 Approach of the ESIA 4 1.3.5 Methodology 5 1.4 REPORT STRUCTURE 5 2 POLICY, LEGAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE FRAMEWORK 7

2.1 INTRODUCTION 7 2.2 INSTITUTIONAL FRAMEWORK 7 2.2.1 General 7 2.2.2 Environmental Oversight of Solid Waste Management 7 2.3 INSTITUTIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES 8 2.3.1 Local Authorities 8 2.3.2 Ministries 8 2.3.3 Palestinian Water Authority (PWA) 9 2.3.4 Joint Services Council for SWM in Hebron and Bethlehem Governorates 10 2.3.5 Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) 10 2.4 LEGISLATION AND POLICY 10 2.4.1 Environmental Legislation 10 2.4.2 Enforcement of Regulations 11 2.4.3 Palestinian Environmental Policy and Planning 12 2.4.4 Environmental Impact Assessment 13 2.4.5 International Environmental Assessment Guidelines 13 2.5 PROJECT APPROVAL REQUIREMENTS 14 2.5.1 Project Proponent 14 2.5.2 Project Approving Agencies (West Bank and Israeli) 14 2.5.3 Project Approval Requirements 14 3 DESCRIPTION OF THE PROPOSED PROJECT AND ALTERNATIVES 16

3.1 INTRODUCTION 16 3.2 EXISTING SOLID WASTE GENERATION AND FUTURE MANAGEMENT NEEDS 17 3.2.1 Sources of Municipal Solid Waste 17 3.2.2 Characteristics of Municipal Solid Waste 19 3.2.3 Disposal 20 3.2.4 Anticipated Future Needs 21 3.3 ALTERNATIVE WASTE COLLECTION AND TRANSFER OPTIONS 23 3.3.1 Introduction and Background 23 3.3.2 The “Zero Option” 24 3.3.3 Alternative Waste Collection and Transfer Systems 25 3.3.4 Alternative Waste Disposal Systems 26 3.3.5 Alternative Sites for the Landfill 28 3.4 THE PREFERRED OPTION FOR THE DISPOSAL OF MSW 28 3.4.1 Landfill Design Features 29 3.4.2 Landfill Site Infrastructure and Access Roads 1 3.4.3 Construction of Roads 2

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 7 - 3.4.4 The Transfer Station 4 3.5 PHASING OF LANDFILL OPERATION ERROR! BOOKMARK NOT DEFINED. 3.6 LANDFILL DECOMMISSIONING AND AFTERCARE PHASE ERROR! BOOKMARK NOT DEFINED. 3.7 REMEDIATION AND CLOSURE OF EXISTING WASTE DUMPS 11 3.7.1 Introduction 11 3.7.2 Improvement and Continued Operation of the Yatta Site 11 3.7.3 Remediation and Closure of Dump Sites 11 4 IDENTIFICATION OF KEY ISSUES (SCOPING) 13

4.1 BACKGROUND 13 4.2 IDENTIFICATION OF IMPACT AREAS 13 4.2.1 Causes of Impacts 13 4.2.2 The Receiving Environment 14 4.3 IMPACTS TO BE ADDRESSED IN THE STUDY 14 4.3.1 Introduction 14 4.3.2 Key Impact Areas 14 4.3.3 Other Impacts 16 5 PUBLIC CONSULTATION 18

5.1 BACKGROUND 18 5.2 OVERVIEW AND METHODOLOGY 18 5.2.1 Stakeholder Consultation Plan 18 5.2.2 Disclosure 21 5.3 OUTCOME OF STAKEHOLDER CONSULTATIONS 21 5.3.1 Introduction 21 5.3.2 Concerns of the stakeholders at national level 21 5.3.3 Concerns of the stakeholders at regional level 22 5.3.4 Concerns of the stakeholders at local level 23 6 ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL BASELINE DATA 25

6.1 INTRODUCTION 25 6.1.1 Data and Information Presented 25 6.1.2 Sources of Information 25 6.2 GENERAL ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS IN THE STUDY AREA 25 6.2.1 General Characteristics 25 6.2.2 Climate 28 6.2.3 Ambient Environmental Conditions in the Study Area 31 6.3 GEOLOGY AND SOILS 37 6.3.1 Site Investigation 37 6.3.2 Regional Bedrock Stratigraphy and Lithology 37 6.3.3 Geology and Stratigraphy of the Project Site 41 6.3.4 Seismic Activities 42 6.3.5 Superficial Materials and Top Soil 42 6.4 HYDROGEOLOGY AND HYDROLOGY 42 6.4.1 Hydrogeology of Southern West Bank 43 6.4.2 Groundwater Abstraction and Groundwater Quality 44 6.4.3 Groundwater Quality 45 6.5 HYDROLOGY 45 6.5.1 Catchment Details 45 6.5.2 Surface Water Resources 46 6.6 ECOLOGY 47 6.6.1 Sources of Information 47 6.6.2 Flora 47 6.6.3 Fauna 48

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 8 - 6.7 SOCIO-ECONOMIC FACTORS 48 6.7.1 Demographics 48 6.7.2 Employment 50 6.7.3 Key Social Services and Utilities 51 6.7.4 Employment/Livelihood at the Existing Waste Sites 52 7 ASSESSMENT AND MITIGATION OF IMPACTS 53

7.1 INTRODUCTION 53 7.1.1 Contents of this Section 53 7.1.2 Identification of Impacts 53 7.1.3 Assessment and Mitigation of Impacts 54 7.2 AIR QUALITY 57 7.2.1 Odor 57 7.2.2 Dust from Construction and Operation and Smoke 58 7.2.3 Summary of Mitigated Impacts 60 7.2.4 Summary of Mitigation Measures 60 7.3 NOISE IMPACTS 61 7.3.1 Construction Noise 61 7.3.2 Operational Noise 63 7.3.3 Movement of RCVs 63 7.3.4 Summary of Mitigation Measures 64 7.4 POTENTIAL AESTHETIC IMPACTS 65 7.4.1 Introduction 65 7.4.2 The Landfill Site 65 7.4.3 The Transfer Station 66 7.4.4 The Wider Project Area 66 7.4.5 Summary of Mitigation Measures 67 7.5 ROADS AND TRAFFIC IMPACTS 67 7.5.1 The Landfill Site 67 7.5.2 The Transfer Station 68 7.5.3 The Wider Project Area 68 7.5.4 Summary of Mitigation Measures 70 7.6 GEOLOGY AND SOILS 70 7.6.1 Introduction 70 7.6.2 Seismicity 70 7.6.3 Slope Stability 71 7.6.4 Cavities in the Limestone Underlying the Site 72 7.6.5 Off-site Sourcing of Landfill Earthwork Materials 72 7.6.6 Summary of Mitigation Measures 74 7.7 HYDROGEOLOGY, HYDROLOGY AND WATER QUALITY 74 7.7.1 Introduction 74 7.7.2 Contamination of Water Resources from Leachate Emissions 75 7.7.3 Alteration of Surface Water Regime 77 7.7.4 Increased Sediment Load of Surface Water 77 7.7.5 Contamination of Water Resources by Fuel Spillage 78 7.7.6 Summary of Mitigation Measures 79 7.8 POTENTIAL IMPACTS ON FLORA AND FAUNA 80 7.8.1 Introduction 80 7.8.2 Biological Habitats 80 7.8.3 Domestic Animals and Livestock 81 7.8.4 Summary of Mitigation Measures 83 7.9 HEALTH AND SAFETY 83 7.9.1 Introduction 83 7.9.2 Potential Health Impacts of MSW Disposal 84

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 9 - 7.9.3 Assessment and Management of Health and Safety Impacts 84 7.9.4 Summary of Mitigation Measures 87 7.10 SOCIAL AND SOCIO-ECONOMIC IMPACTS 88 7.10.1 Land Acquisition and Land Use 88 7.10.2 Loss of Arable and Grazing Land 90 7.10.3 Impacts on Local Social Structure 91 7.10.4 Impacts on Local Employment 91 7.10.5 Impacts on Waste Pickers 92 7.10.6 Impacts on Culturally Significant Sites 94 7.10.7 Impacts of Induced Development 95 7.10.8 Summary of Mitigation Measures 95 8 NEED FOR AWARENESS RAISING AND CAPACITY DEVELOPMENT 97 8.1.1 Introduction 97 8.1.2 Awareness Raising 97 8.1.3 Gender Issues 97 8.1.4 Management and Labor Issues 98 8.2 IMPACTS ASSOCIATED WITH PROPOSED FORMAL WASTE RECYCLING 98 8.2.1 Introduction 98 8.2.2 Proposals for Waste Separation and Recycling 99 8.2.3 Potential Impacts of Proposed Waste Separation Schemes 99 9 THE ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MANAGEMENT PLAN 101

9.1 INTRODUCTION 101 9.2 STRUCTURE OF THE ESMP 101 A Mitigation 105 9.3 IMPLEMENTATION ARRANGEMENTS 135 10 CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS 136

10.1 CONCLUSIONS 136 10.2 RECOMMENDATIONS 137

ANNEXES

1. Terms of Reference 2. References 3. Reports of Public Hearings and Consultations 4. List of EIA preparers

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 10 - al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 1 - introduction

Background

In the southern West Bank area, i.e. Bethlehem and Hebron governorates, improperly regulated dumpsites for the disposal of municipal solid waste have led to unacceptable environmental degradation. As a response to this deteriorating situation, the Solid Waste and Environmental Management Project (SWEMP) has been initiated. It is funded by a Policy and Human Resource Development (PHRD) grant given by the Government of Japan to the Palestinian Authority. Funds are administered by the World Bank, through its International Development Association, and managed by the Municipal Development and Lending Fund (MDLF).

Following competitive tender, Consultants group DHV BV from The Netherlands, with its consortium partner Palestinian Hydrology Group (PHG) from Palestine (the consortium is further referred to as ‘Consultant’), were selected by the MDLF to undertake a consultancy assignment with the following main components:

PART A –- FEASIBILITY STUDY PART B – ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT PART C – DESIGN AND TENDER DOCUMENTS

The Terms of Reference are attached at Annex A.

This document reports the findings of the Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) studies.

Project Objectives

The main objectives of the SWEMP in the southern part of the West Bank are: 6. To improve solid waste management in Hebron and Bethlehem Governorates 7. To reduce the environmental pollution risks, especially the pollution of water sources. 8. To maximize the potential social and environmental benefits and improve public health status 9. To improve air quality through eliminating gas and smoke release from the unsanitary dumping sites. 10. To improve the aesthetic view of the landscape

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 2 - ESIA Approach and Methodology

The Project Planning Cycle

Prior to actual project implementation, the principal stages in the project planning cycle are as follows: Stage I – Feasibility Study, and Basic Design of project proposals (completed); Stage 2 – Selection of most favorable site and project proposals (ongoing); Stage 3 – Environmental and Social Impact Assessment for selected project proposals (this report); Stage 4 – Final site and project proposals selection; Stage 5 – Final Design of Priority Investment and Tender Documents of approved project elements; Stage 6 – Tendering of construction and development of project elements.

Status of the Design Proposals

The initial concept for the design of project activities has been established in the Feasibility Study (FS) and Basic Design (BD), prepared in parallel with this ESIA study. The FS has proposed an approach to engineering the site and has addressed the key engineering design and operational aspects of site development. However, a number of specific aspects of site engineering will only be finalized at the detailed design stage (Stage 4) after the final selection of the most favorable site and engineering concept (Stage 4).

This ESIA has been prepared on the basis of the conceptual designs developed in the FS and BD (Stage 1). It is important to acknowledge that the level of information provided in this report reflects the nature/status of the project design upon which the ESIA has been based.

Assessment and Mitigation of Significant Impacts

The extent, significance and requirements for mitigation and management of all potential impacts identified in the ESIA has been determined by considering the following factors:

• Existing baseline conditions within the receiving environment; • the minimum performance standards assumed in the Basic Design of project proposals, on the premise that these will be adhered to throughout the lifetime of the site development; and, • the environmental norms and standards mandated by the competent authorities and by good practice at all stages of the project lifecycle (site design, construction, operation, maintenance and restoration).

The recommendations and performance standards thus identified will be stipulated in the Tender Documents (Stage 5) prepared for project development and implementation. As such, these standards, and any conditions attached to the receipt of environmental clearance for the project proposals, will be binding contractual obligations placed upon the project developer and any contractors and sub-contractors appointed by the project developer.

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 3 - Approach of the ESIA

Sources of Data and Information The EA report has been prepared and developed with consideration of the following sources: • Terms of Reference for the West Bank SWM Study • Final Site Selection Report, April 2008, DHV BV • Draft Baseline Data Inventory Report discussing the environmental issues relating to the development of the proposed landfill site • Feasibility Study identifying the needs and options for an improved waste collection, transfer and disposal program • available maps, field survey reports, and other secondary sources; • field surveys commissioned specifically for this study; and • consultations with key stakeholders including decision makers and project affected groups including local residents.

Contents This ESIA documents the:

• current institutional framework for SWM in the West Bank; • existing legal framework governing SWM in the West Bank; • rationale underlying the project proposals; • proposed project activities; and baseline conditions in the vicinity of the proposed landfill site.

And identifies, defines and evaluates:

• the suitability of the project proposals from an environmental perspective; • any significant environmental and social impacts likely to arise from implementation of the collection, transfer and waste disposal project components; • appropriate measures to minimize any adverse environmental or social impacts; • an environmental and social management plan (ESMP) to mitigate adverse environmental impacts; • appropriate compensation for impacts that cannot be mitigated; • opportunities for public benefit throughout the lifetime of the project; • appropriate institutional arrangements to oversee project implementation, and • a comprehensive monitoring program to evaluate the impacts of project activities.

Key Objectives One key objective of the ESIA is to ensure that the project proposals, remediation of the current dumpsites and the development of an engineered landfill, will not impact adversely upon the environment. A second key objective is to maximize the potential environmental and social benefits from the project proposals and the associated project investments.

The ESIA report contributes to these goals by:

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 4 - • providing guidance to project decision makers on the environmental acceptability of the project activities and permits planning and investment decisions to be made on a comprehensive understanding of the anticipated project impacts; and • providing a comprehensive three part ESMP that will guide the construction, operation and supervision of the project.

Methodology

This ESIA report has been prepared in accordance with the following guidelines and requirements:

• National Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) guidelines including the EIA Brochure of the Palestinian Environmental Authority, and the Israeli “Instructions and Guidelines to conduct a study that assesses the Environmental Impact to construct a sanitary landfill for the wastes from Hebron-Bethlehem-Jerusalem Periphery realm”. • Recognized international policy and guidelines including EC EIA Directives and World Bank Operational Policy/Bank Procedures/Good Practice (OP/BP/GP 4.01). • Both the Israeli and Palestinian EIA systems require the scope of the ESIA to be agreed with the relevant environmental authority prior to the elaboration of the environmental and social assessments. The instructions of these bodies were followed to develop the scope of the studies (described in Chapter 5).

Report Structure

The report has been structured as specified in the Terms of Reference for this study and is set out in three volumes as follows: • Executive Summary • ESIA report • Annexes

Following this Introduction, the ESIA report is set out in eight further Sections as summarized below:

• Section 2 describes the policy, legal and institutional framework currently governing environmental management in the West Bank, with particular reference to SWM and ESIA. Salient features of the World Bank OP 4.01 are also identified and discussed.

• Section 3 presents a description of the project alternatives and the proposed project elements. The Section also provides an overview of existing SWM services in the Hebron and Bethlehem Governorate and the anticipated future SWM needs.

• Section 4 summarizes the outcome of public and stakeholder consultations carried out during the preparation of the ESIA. The Section highlights key concerns of interested or affected parties.

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 5 - • Section 5 identifies the key environmental and social issues associated with each component of the project and describes how they have been investigated through the ESIA studies.

• Section6 describes the prevailing baseline environmental and social conditions in the Governorates and specifically at the proposed sites of the landfill and associated infrastructure. The Section details existing physical features and ecological resources and identifies social, socio-economic and cultural features likely to be affected by any aspect of the proposed project.

• Section 7 provides an evaluation of the anticipated environmental and social impacts of the proposed project. The significance of all potential impacts is assessed and key issues requiring further mitigation, management and monitoring are identified.

• Section 8 sets out the Environmental and Social Management Plan which details the arrangements that need to be made to ensure that all design features, and mitigation or enhancement measures identified in this document are implemented and their effectiveness monitored.

Detailed information relevant to the ESIA, but not essential to understanding the identification, assessment and management of impacts is included in four annexes as follows.

1. Terms of Reference 2. References 3. Reports of Public Hearings and Consultations 4. List of EIA preparers

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 6 - POLICY, LEGAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE FRAMEWORK

Introduction

This Section presents the policy, legal and administrative framework governing environmental management in the West Bank, with particular reference to the regulations governing SWM and the requirements for ESIA. The specific procedures for project evaluation and approval are discussed also. Project proposals will conform with applicable environmental policies, legislation, regulations and guidelines of the Palestinian Authorities and the World Bank. These require that an EIA of the project proposals must be prepared, evaluated and approved in the light of prevailing environmental policies and regulations.

Institutional Framework

General

When the Palestinian National Authority was formed in mid nineties, it created many new municipalities. Such municipalities had little to no experience in administering public services like solid waste management (SWM). The relatively low performance level of SWM services in the Palestinian territory is related to lack of strategies or policies for SWM as well as lack of infrastructure and capacity among the old and newly created municipal and local councils. Despite the fact that some key improvements were observed in the handling of solid wastes by local authorities toward the year 1999 – 2000, SWM has become a serious concern and a huge burden to the local authorities as well as citizens. The restriction of movement and access imposed on the towns and villages has left no options to them but to dump their solid waste in areas close to their residential areas and in areas that are considered environmentally significant. This situation has continued until today, where many villages and towns are still using unsanitary landfills to dispose of their solid wastes.

However, following to the establishment of the Palestinian National Authority, it undertook to improve SWM in the Palestinian Territory. It commissioned a study to form a master plan for SWM in the West Bank. The master plan recommended having three central landfills. The first sanitary landfill was established in the Northern part of the West Bank and the current report addresses the social and environmental feasibility of establishing the second sanitary landfill to serve the Southern part of the West Bank.

Environmental Oversight of Solid Waste Management

To establish a competent authority at the Palestinian National Authority level, the Ministry of Planning and International Co-operation (MoPIC) created the Environmental Planning Directorate (EPD) within its structure. The Solid and Hazardous Waste Directorate (SHWD) of the EPD became the focal point of governmental activities in the SWM sector.

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 7 - In September 1995, the Oslo Interim Agreement was signed. Article 12 of the civil affairs of this agreement deals with environmental co-operation, including matters pertaining to solid waste. The agreement ‘binds’ the Palestinian Authority to deal with wastes in the West Bank and Gaza Strip.

In December 1996 the Palestinian Environmental Authority (PEnA) was created by decree of Chairman Arafat. During 1997, its mandates and responsibilities were settled. In August 1997, a Memorandum of Understanding was signed between PEnA and EPD. The latter handed over all documents and most of its equipment. In April 1998, the Ministry of Health and PEnA signed a Memorandum of Understanding. The Ministry of Health’s mandate in SWM was then restricted to inspection of facilities as well as to management of medical wastes in the hospitals (not waste from private clinics or pharmacies). The transportation and disposal of hospital waste became the responsibility of municipalities under the supervision of PEnA. In August 1998, a Minister of Environmental Affairs took office; initially the Minister acted without a Ministry. During 1999, PEnA became effectively the Ministry of Environmental Affairs (MEnA). Environmental Quality Authority (EQA) was established by presidential decree in 2002 to inherit MEnA, with the same powers and mandate.

The Palestinian Legislative Council approved the first Palestinian Environmental Law, which was signed on 28 December 1999. The Law was published in the official gazette on the 28 March, 2000.

Institutional Responsibilities

Local Authorities

In theory, local authorities are responsible for solid waste collection and disposal in the West Bank. Municipalities are mandated to take care of the collection of solid wastes in their municipal boundaries and subsequently organize the removal of these solid wastes to a disposal site. In practice, the collection of wastes is not 100%. There are a number of communities, however, for which there is no municipal authority or village council; approximately 12 % of communities in Hebron District fall into this category. In these circumstances responsibility for the provision of SWM services rests with the community itself or, in refugee camps, with United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA).

At the time of preparing the ESIA Report, however, no clear organizational and institutional setting for regional waste collection, transfer stations, haulage and the landfill has been established.

Ministries

Ministry of Environmental Affairs now Environment Quality Authority The EQA is the current authority responsible for environmental issues. It monitors solid waste activities, organizes workshops and public awareness campaigns and decides on requests for disposal permits. The Ministry stipulates the criteria for site selection, the Terms of Reference (scope) for Environmental Assessment, identifies the overall waste strategy and suggests actions for strategy implementation. It

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 8 - specifies monitoring requirements and is responsible for monitoring project development together with other related institutions.

Ministry of Local Government At national level MoLG is responsible for the activities of municipalities. This implies that policies and implementation for municipal services, including the organization and administration of solid waste services, fall under the remit of this Ministry. This Ministry plays an important role in, for example, the financing of solid waste collection equipment, selection of disposal sites in co-ordination and co-operation with EQA and the introduction of cost recovery mechanisms.

Ministry of Health (MoH) Until May 1998 MoH monitored the dumps used for disposal of collected waste. Their concern was limited to the direct risks to public health and did not extend to indirect risks via the environment, such as the pollution of any groundwater aquifers. MoH continues to be responsible for medical wastes from hospitals, although there is no registration of hazardous waste producers and there are no data for medical waste generation. Recently, the MoH and EQA agreed to work together in this field. In addition, data on clinics and pharmacies is incomplete and there are neither reliable data, nor registrations, of (imports of) chemical or nuclear substances.

Ministry of National Economy (MoNE) Industries produce a substantial quantity of solid waste and a significant percentage of the toxic wastes; however, the Ministry of Industry does not have any department that deals with solid waste issues on an ad hoc basis. As far as known there is no registration of hazardous waste producers.

Ministry of Justice (MoJ) Although not directly involved in SWM, this Ministry plays an important role in enforcement of laws, including municipal by-laws.

Ministry of Planning and International Co-operation (MoPIC) MoPIC is the official channel for donor relations and plays an important role in the preparation of the Palestinian Development Plan, in which SWM ranks high on the list of strategic initiatives for the future.

Ministry of Civil Affairs The role of this Ministry is limited to the monitoring of the Israeli violations in this field, reporting and arranging for the joint meetings to discuss related issues.

Palestinian Water Authority (PWA)

This was the first inter-ministerial Authority to be established (1995). The PWA deals mainly with water resources and related environmental issues. It grants or rejects licenses for activities with a ‘water component’, including dump (solid waste disposal) sites that might pollute aquifers.

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 9 - Joint Services Council for SWM in Hebron and Bethlehem Governorates

The Local Government Law of 1997 created the legal basis for establishing an institutional framework like a Solid Waste Management Council. By a ministerial decree, the Hebron-Bethlehem Joint Services Council for Solid Waste Management was established. The JSC comprised all the local governments in both Hebron and Bethlehem and the Hebron Governor’s Office, headed by the Mayor of Hebron Municipality. As per April 2008, the JSC has most of the member representatives of the southern area communities which will be served by the proposed landfill and the SWM improvement project. The JSC provides an organizational mechanism for cost sharing and pooling of resources by municipalities and village councils. It is envisaged that collective action will bring economic efficiencies to operations and that the JSC will offer a regional organizational mechanism for services provisions in areas other than SWM as well.

Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs)

NGOs have dealt with solid waste management related issues in terms of research, including data and information gathering, public awareness and training. Within the scope of this project it is expected that NGO’s will be involved in social welfare, resettlement and social management plans. Specifically it is foreseen that NGO’s will facilitate in re-employment of waste pickers currently active at the Yatta dump site.

Legislation and Policy

Environmental Legislation

Much of the prevailing legislation pertaining to SWM in the West Bank can be traced back to Ottoman or British roots and has been complemented only relatively recently, with orders issued from Palestinian Governors and heads of municipal health departments. The currently applicable Laws and Regulations include:

• Jordanian Public Health Law, 1966; • Municipality Regulatory System; • Israeli Military Orders; • Palestinian Authority Orders; • Municipal Policies and Regulations; • Environmental Impact Assessment Policy, approved 23/04/2000 by the Cabinet; • Palestinian Local Government Law of 1997; • Oslo I and II Agreements. • Other International Conventions and Treaties to Which Palestine is a signatory party. 1 • Palestinian Environmental Law # 7 for the year 1999.

1 Article 77 of the Palestinian Environmental Law stipulates that international conventions, where Palestine is a signatory party, are considered as a complementary to law provisions being in force in the Palestinian territory. However, given that Palestine is not a sovereign state yet, it has an observer status in these conventions.

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 10 - The most directly relevant of these to the proposed project are the Palestinian Local Government Law of 1997, and the Palestinian Environmental Law of 1999. The Palestinian Local Government Law created the legal basis for establishing frameworks like Solid Waste Management Councils, that can manage a regional landfill facility and municipal waste collection on a district and regional scale. Article NO15 – Paragraph 8 states that: All local authorities are responsible for collecting solid waste from public places, transporting and disposing these wastes in the designated areas. The same article dictates that all local authorities should take all precautions and procedures necessary to maintain public health and prevent outbreaks of epidemics among the people. The law also stipulates that each local authority should produce an internal regulation to govern various issues including the solid waste management within their command areas similar to those were prevailing during the time of Jordanian jurisdiction.

The first Palestinian Environmental Law was signed in 1999. The law sets out the legal framework for SWM, as follows.

Articles 7 to 10 deal specifically with solid waste and cover areas of responsibility of EQA at the national level, viz.: • master planning and supervision of implementation of the national plan (7); • all related institutions to take part in the process of waste reduction, and support recycling and reuse (8); • the Ministry, together with related institutions, to stipulate appropriate site selection criteria (9); and • the responsibility of all to handle construction wastes in an approved and acceptable way (10).

Articles I, 12 and 13 deal with hazardous materials and wastes, viz.: • preparation of lists (registration) (11); • no one can produce, store, distribute, use or treat or dispose of such materials without following Ministry regulations and in full co-ordination with the Ministry (12); and • such materials cannot be imported to Palestine (A), and for such materials to pass through Palestinian land or water needs a Ministry permit (B) (13)

Enforcement of Regulations

All the above mentioned laws, orders and regulations have ‘enforcement power’. The main base of the enforcement system is the Jordanian Public Health Law # 43 and the municipality regulatory system. Enforcement actions are usually taken by the municipality directly in some cases and through the ‘Soluh’ court, the police and sometimes the District Governor for much complicated cases.

Nonetheless, enforcement of environmental law remains problematic for several reasons, among which:

1. The law does not specify which competent authorities the EQA should deal with regarding environmental issues or violations. 2. It is difficult to enforce any laws in parts of the Palestinian Areas that are not controlled by the PA especially "C" area.

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 11 -

Also local authorities have been slow to obey the law, perhaps due to lack of capacity and conflicting priorities. For example, although the Local Government Law requires authorities to produce regulations dealing with solid waste, none have yet done so. Even the larger municipalities that have such regulations from many years ago, such as Bethlehem and Hebron, are not able to implement them properly. Bethlehem Municipality, for example, developed an internal regulation in 1956 which is still legally valid that deals with the disposal of waste and garbage. This was used to compel traders and residents to put solid wastes in specialized places, and criminalized non-compliance. It also gives the right to official observers to enter the courtyard of a building or any place of business to ensure that the provisions the law are fulfilled. Hebron municipality also has a special regime dating from the British mandate that deals with solid waste management.

In response to the difficulties of local authorities in complying with the law, the MoLG has now established Joint Service Councils which, in many cases, take the responsibility of supplying water and solid waste services for a cluster of communities. The ministry aims at taking back the responsibility for MSW and attracting funds to develop the sector at national level under the operational monitoring of EQA. In this scenario, JSCs might become the preferred structures for dealing directly with the operational aspects of MSW under the umbrella of the MoLG.

Palestinian Environmental Policy and Planning

The Palestinian Environmental Strategy (PES), was published in October 1999 by MEnA. It covers the political and social context, the legal and institutional framework, the environmental driving forces, the environmental themes and the strategy elements. Solid waste generation, collection and disposal are discussed as driving forces.

EQA has completed an Environmental Assessment Policy and begun implementation of the procedures. The Environmental Assessment Policy, together with the NEAP, has, inter alia, the following goals: • to conserve the social, historical and cultural values of the Palestinian people and their communities; • to ensure an adequate quality of life, health, safety and welfare for the Palestinian people; • to preserve natural processes; • to maintain the sustainable use and the long-term ability of natural resources to support human, plant and animal life; • to conserve bio-diversity and landscapes; • to avoid irreversible environmental damage from development activities; and • to ensure that the basic needs of the people affected or likely to be affected by a development activity are not jeopardized.

Within the terms of the policy, EQA is responsible for the implementation and, therefore, for the approval and assessment of environmental considerations in relation to proposed developments. It is expected that the EQA will liaise with relevant institutions, such as the PWA, in relation to proposed developments.

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 12 - Environmental Impact Assessment

The proposed project will require an EIA under Palestinian environmental policy and in accordance with the procedures of the other interested parties (the Israeli authorities and the funding agencies, represented by the World Bank). The form of EIA under Palestinian Policy is similar to that of the World Bank (see details below). It requires a comprehensive EIA for projects likely to have significant impacts and an Initial Environmental Evaluation (IEE) for projects where significant impacts are uncertain, or where compliance with environmental regulations must be ensured. Completion of an IEE may necessitate the conduct of a comprehensive EIA.

The Israeli EIA guidelines have also been taken into account during the preparation of the current ESIA report. The main issues are similar to those required under the Palestinian EIA guidelines. Both the Israeli and Palestinian EIA systems require the scope of the environmental assessment to be agreed by the relevant authorities in advance of the execution of the environmental impact assessment. The environmental scoping of this ESIA as presented in Section 5 has been approved accordingly.

The national authorities have also the responsibility for ensuring that the Environmental and Social Management Plan will be implemented and monitored.

International Environmental Assessment Guidelines

The prevailing international EIA procedures are those of such as the EC Directive 85/337 and 97/11/EC and World Bank Operational Policy/Bank Procedures/Good Practices (OP/BP/GP 4.01) and associated documents have also been taken into account in carrying out the ESIA

The purpose of undertaking an EIA is to improve decision-making and to ensure that project options under consideration are environmentally sound and sustainable. The EIA should identify ways of improving projects environmentally by preventing, minimizing, mitigating or compensating for adverse impacts. Accordingly WB OP 4.01 identifies that project-specific ElAs should normally cover the following aspects:

• Existing baseline environmental conditions; • potential environmental impacts; • systematic environmental comparison of alternative investments; • systematic environmental comparison of alternative sites; • systematic environmental comparison of alternative technologies and designs; • preventive, mitigation or management plan; • environmental management and training; and • environmental monitoring.

The level of EIA performed should be based on the expected environmental impacts, as determined by the type, location, sensitivity, and scale of the proposed project, as well as the nature and magnitude of its likely potential impacts. Engineered or sanitary landfill projects are defined typically as Category A projects within OP 4.01 and, as such, should be subjected to full environmental analysis through the planning and implementation phases.

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 13 - Project Approval Requirements

Project Proponent

The MoLG has decided that there will be central landfill sites to cover northern, central and southern areas of the West Bank. Therefore a combined Joint Service Council for Hebron and Bethlehem Governorates (JSC-H&B) been formed or which the two chairs of the Hebron and Bethlehem JSCs are chair and deputy chair, respectively. The Solid Waste section of Hebron Municipality acts as representative of the executive body and the Mayor of Hebron for the legislative body. Thus the JSC-H&B is the Project Proponent for this project.

Project Approving Agencies (West Bank and Israeli)

Within the terms of the Draft Environmental Assessment Policy, EQA is responsible for the assessment of environmental issues related to the project proposals and, ultimately, for issuing environmental clearance for the project to proceed. It is expected that EQA will liaise with relevant institutions in considering all relevant issues raised by the proposed developments.

Project Approval Requirements

Compensation Measures for Loss of Land in Productive Use In general the following steps will be taken by the Palestinian Authority to ensure that the land is available and all permits are in place for development of a sanitary landfill. These procedures were valid up to the date of publishing this report and include the definition of compensatory measures for landowners. The procedures are as follows:

1. Preparation of a map of the land of the proposed landfill footprint and the immediate adjacent lands, including the exact parcel numbers, boundaries and land-owners; 2. The proposed Project has to be reviewed by the Higher Planning Council (HPC); and 3. The HPC appoints a committee to assess measures to be taken to compensate landowners.

This Assessment Committee is headed by the Ministry of Finance, and further consists of representatives from the MoLG, relevant Municipalities, Ministry of Agriculture and the Department of Survey of the Ministry of Housing.

Other Approvals After having settled all land-ownership issues involved, the Project will be reviewed in the Joint Environmental Experts Co-ordination and Co-operation Committee consisting of Israeli and Palestinian Authorities environmental experts.

The proposed landfill site falls in Area ‘C’ of the West Bank. Infrastructure projects, including solid waste disposal sites, require approval of the Civil Administration of the State of Israel prior to receiving construction permits. In particular, the following components of site infrastructure will be subject to scrutiny and review:

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 14 -

• landfill sites, including all aspects of site engineering; • dump sites; • sorting and recycling facilities; • compression stations; • site restoration; • access roads; and • fencing.

Under the same approvals procedures, water supply and water/sewage treatment facilities, reservoirs, dams, drainage channels and electrical installations all require approval of the Israeli authorities prior to construction. Some of these types of infrastructure may be required for the completion of the currently proposed project.

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 15 - DESCRIPTION of the Proposed PROJECT and Alternatives

Introduction

The set up of a regional SWM system, i.e. a central sanitary landfill, eventual transfer stations and long haul transport, aims at the implementation of a stepwise process of changes towards achievement of up to date integrated municipal waste management. Economic feasibility depends on finding affordable long-term technical and financial solutions.

The conceptual design options and feasibility of the proposed project are evaluated in a Feasibility Study for the proposed regional SWM system, conducted by the Consultant. The feasibility report concentrates, next to a general assessment of the various technical options and regional SWM configurations, on the technical comparison as well as the operational and financial feasibility of the proposed landfill locations, and the proposed transfer station. Important aspects of the feasibility study include the development of the conceptual designs, and consequent cost estimates for the selected sites.

In this ESIA Report only the main features of the feasibility study are presented. The following map shows the sites that were considered including the selected location (nr. 12). For details, reference is made to the aforementioned report.

Figure 0.1: Map showing location of Potential Landfill Sites

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 16 - Location of the preferred landfill (nr. 12)

Existing Solid Waste Generation and Future Management Needs

Sources of Municipal Solid Waste

The Itau/UNEP reports mention that local surveys and estimates indicate that household waste accounts for 45-50 % of the total MSW, in the West Bank, with the construction and industrial sectors together constituting 20-25 %, and remaining types (e.g. commercial, institutional) about 25-30 % (Al-Hamadi, M., 2002). Hazardous material is to some extent present in all these waste types, although such material is only a significant component of industrial and hospital waste.

The Consultant has carried out a solid waste survey, using a questionnaire, in the municipalities of the Hebron and Bethlehem governorates. The results are presented in the following tables.

Table 0.1: Solid Waste Generation per capita in Hebron Governorate

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 17 - *

Population size based on earlier published projected values by PCBS

Table 0.2: MSW generation per capita in Bethlehem Governorate

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 18 - * Population size based on earlier published projected values by PCBS

From the above, the average waste generation for the Hebron Governorate may be estimated at 0.65-0.70 kg/day per capita and for the Bethlehem governorate at about 1.0 kg/day per capita. The total waste collected was 221,000 ton/yr which represents around 90% of the total generated (collection efficiency for Hebron and Bethlehem is estimated at 92% and 94% respectively).

The figures presented above are low compared, for instance, to Western Europe (around 2.5 kg), which is largely due to the different economic situation of the people in the catchment. It might therefore be assumed that the per capita amounts will grow as the economic situation improves. There is uncertainty about the volumes of waste likely to be generated but the precise quantities are not critical to the feasibility of the proposed scheme.

For the design phase a figure of 190,000 ton/yr for the year 2007 has been used to calculate the required capacity of the disposal facility. This value gives a safe margin to avoid underestimation of waste volume while taking care that overestimation does not lead to wasteful and costly oversizing of the facility.

Characteristics of Municipal Solid Waste

For the estimation of the required capacity of the landfill over a 20-year period, the available data on the waste composition has to be considered, particular with respect to the (feasible) options for recycling and composting, as well as the gas extraction system to be installed in the landfill. Unfortunately up to date, reliable data, based on systematic and periodical waste surveys and analysis are not available. Therefore below an overview is given of the available, most recent data for the project area.

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 19 -

In the Draft Master Plan, Phase II Volume 1 (prepared by Environmental Resources Management, ERM), the following composition of municipal solid waste in the Occupied Palestinian Territories is given:

Table 0.3: Waste Composition in the Palestinian Territories

- organic : 60% - paper : 10% - plastic/rubber : 9% - glass : 5% - ferrous : 4%, metals - wood, : 3% - aluminum : 2% - textiles : 2% - others : 5%

These figures are reasonable. The relatively high fraction of organic wastes (60-70%) is not unusual for areas with a low level of economic activity. Given this high organic component, there is potential in future to reduce the waste volumes to be disposed of at the landfill by composting. This affects the projection of future waste volumes (see 3.2.4 below).

The waste density is estimated at about 0.30 ton/m3, which is comparatively high, but is also reasonable given the large organic content.

Disposal

Currently most of the solid waste from Hebron Governorate and from some villages in Bethlehem Governorate is dumped at the dumping site at Yatta. Solid waste from Israeli settlements in Hebron, from the UNRWA-managed refugee camps, and some industrial waste is also taken to the dumpsite. In all, between 100 and 120 trucks with average capacity around 8 tons discharge at the site daily.

A private company has a contract from Hebron municipality to operate the site (spreading and compacting, covering and preventing burning), using 2 bulldozers, a shovel and an excavator.

The staffing at the site comprises: • 8 staff members of the contractor; • 3 staff members of the Hebron municipality to supervise the contractor, manage the trucks and collect fees; • One supervisor and two guards who collect fees from private persons who want to dump at the site.

In addition about 40 waste-pickers collect metals, clothes, shoes, wood and plastic at the site.

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 20 - The site still has some capacity but the environmental and social conditions do not meet national and international standards. The remainder of waste is disposed of at informal dump sites.

Anticipated Future Needs

Based on the present population and forecasts for the Hebron and Bethlehem governorates, as well as the estimates and forecasts for the waste generation per capita, the total annual waste generation over the project period can be calculated. The most important parameters and factors that will influence the waste generation, and thus the required capacity of the regional landfill in the next 20 year (2010-2030) project period are as follows.

• Population growth: Based on population growth figures of about 3% per annum, the population in the project area will almost double in the coming 20 years, and consequently also the generated waste volumes (if no reduction-minimization actions are taken). • Waste generation per capita: Waste generation per capita is affected by economic growth and by waste minimization and other -public awareness campaigns. It has been assumed some increase (about 1% per year) in waste generation will occur over the life of the project.

• Improved MSW collection rate: It is assumed that collection efficiency will rise to 100% in 5-6 years.

• Increased recycling and composting: Significant reduction of the waste being disposed at the landfill can be achieved, by increasing the recycling rates for the various waste streams, and in particular, by starting composting the major organic waste fraction. In the forecast no significant reduction is expected in the first 5 - 6 years, however significant reductions are assumed in the period after 2020.

The waste forecasts that follow are mostly based on the available literature on these various factors. This approach has been used many times in similar situations and projects. However, some previous experience indicates that the actual waste volumes/tonnages delivered at the landfill may be considerably lower than forecasted. For this reason a phased, cellular development of the landfill (i.e. in phase of 4-5 years) has been proposed so that after the first 4-5 years of operation, when the waste generation and disposal data are known, the authorities can decide on any further expansion and the expected lifetime of the landfill.

Table 0.4: Summary of Assumptions used in Waste Generation Forecast

Population: Hebron governorate (2007) : 614.524 Annual growth : 3,1% from 2010 to 2,0 % in 2030 Bethlehem governorate (2007) : 171.000 Annual growth : 2,55% from 2010 to 1,5 % in 2030 Waste generation: Hebron governorate : 0,66 kg/capita/day Bethlehem governorate : 0,81 kg/capita/day

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 21 - Annual increase (2008-2030) : 1% Annual increase in : 0 -20% (in 2030) recycling/composting rate

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 22 - Table 0.5 Population and Waste Arisings in 2010, 2020 and 2030

Over the 20 year lifetime of the project the following total waste tonnage/volume to be disposed at the Hebron-Bethlehem regional landfill is forecasted:

Table 0.6: Total waste generation Hebron-Bethlehem governorates (2010-2030)

As said, in the forecasts a moderate increase of the recycling and composting activities has been taken into account. It must be clear that a greater (or lesser) increase in the recycling and/or composting rates will have a significant impact on the life time of the landfill.

Alternative Waste Collection and Transfer Options

Introduction and Background

In the southern West Bank area, i.e. Bethlehem and Hebron governorates, the existing unsanitary dumpsites have caused environment degradation that is now considered unacceptable. Remedial actions are necessary to improve and modernize SWM in an

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 23 - integrated way. The needed improvement is to be realized through the Southern West Bank Solid Waste Management Project (SWBSWMP).

The focus of the SWBSWMP is on the establishment of a regional sanitary landfill for both the Bethlehem and Hebron governorates. The project covers the development and construction of a sanitary landfill and related infrastructure, including necessary transfer stations and long haul transport facilities. The JSC-H&B acts as a proponent of the proposed project.

The project proponent has undertaken a planning process that has included a series of studies investigating the various alternative ways in which the overall project aim can be met. The aim was to identify viable alternatives that can fulfill the project goals with an optimum balance between costs and residual environmental and social impacts. Five principal ways in which the key objectives of the project might be achieved by practical alternative development strategies were examined as follows:

1. the ‘zero’ option - continuation of existing collection and disposal practices; 2. alternative waste collection and transfer systems; 3. alternative waste disposal systems; 4. alternative sites and accesses for the landfill and associated infrastructure; and/or, 5. alternative engineering measures and operational practices.

The following sections summarize the minimum functional requirements for waste management improvements in Hebron/Bethlehem Governorates (project objectives) and assess the capability and suitability of each of these alternative strategies to meet the project objectives.

The “Zero Option”

There are major environmental and social effects of the existing waste disposal system. These are detailed in Section 6, and include air and water pollution, land degradation, and harm to the health and livelihood practices of vulnerable groups (the child waste-pickers). The high potential for environmental impacts associated with the current environmentally unsecured disposal methods arises principally due to:

• Poor original selection of the dump sites (based on convenience rather than environmental acceptability); • Limited control over site access and hence over waste-picking, waste burning and illegal dumping; • Absence of control over emissions of pollutants released from waste decomposition.

Contamination of surface water (wadis) and groundwater resources via uncontrolled discharges of rainwater runoff and leachate is of most concern. Analyses of leachate obtained from three of the largest existing dump sites confirm the significant potential that exists for the contamination of surface water and groundwater resources via uncontrolled discharges of leachate.

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 24 - Similarly, residential communities adjacent to dump sites are affected by the practice of burning waste on-site, resulting in thick plumes of smoke with comparatively high concentrations of particulate matter, including toxic substances released, but not destroyed by, low-temperature burning. The same communities are impacted also by odor generated by decomposing waste that attracts large numbers of vermin and pests. Continuing disposal of waste via uncontrolled dump sites will only serve to exacerbate these impacts throughout the region as the number of dump sites proliferate in order to accommodate the increasing quantities of MSW generated.

Notwithstanding that open dumping is the least cost financial solution for dealing with waste for disposal it is apparent that continued open dumping is not sustainable from practical, social and environmental considerations. Some form of strategic approach to the area’s waste disposal requirements needs to be taken if the project objectives, and the requirements of the Palestinian people, are to be met.

Alternative Waste Collection and Transfer Systems

Waste Collection Collection and haulage schemes for the proposed SWM system were examined using the waste volumes predicted to need removing during the life of the project, (see Section 3.2.6) and then applying the following criteria - ‘cost-efficiency’, ‘affordability’, ‘willingness to pay’, ‘polluter pays’, ‘charge the ones who can afford’ and, where possible, ‘limit cross subsidies’ and ‘maintain equity across the service receivers’.

The system selected and described below (Section 3.4) has been founded upon two basic principles:

• the use of the existing equipment; and • the desire to minimize the risks to public and environmental health.

The choice of Refuse Collection Vehicles (RCVs) will be left to the operators so long as the vehicles meet the applicable performance and environmental standards. Compactor trucks will probably not be suitable during the first phase of operations. These are cost-effective if collecting waste from communal containers, provided the community makes the effort to bring the waste to the container. To date, in many of the larger towns in Southern West Bank, experience of the use of communal containers is that the filling rate is often less than 20 %. At this level, the use of compactor trucks is not feasible.

The use of existing equipment, well maintained and along the routes designated, and replacement RCVs as necessary, is not predicted to give rise to any significant social or environmental effects. Alternative collection and haulage systems could be formulated that might involve varying truck types and size, haulage routes or the frequency of movements. If unexpected impacts arise during the operational phase of the project alternative systems could be developed.

Transfer Station A transfer station is a facility situated near a waste collection area where the RCVs can discharge their load for reloading onto larger vehicles for economic transport to

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 25 - the landfill. Transfer stations are used to optimize the efficiency of waste collection and transport systems. Depending on the collection areas and routes, waste collection vehicles have an operational radius within which they are cost-effective and the transfer station can be used to assist in maintaining the overall efficiency of the waste collection system. The decision on whether transfer stations are needed depends on a number of factors, but particularly on the distance and costs of direct haulage to landfill compared to the costs of a system with transfer.

Analysis of costs shows that that construction of transfer station for transportation of 100 tons per day can pay back if transportation distances exceed a 25-30 km round- trip. There are several potential locations where a transfer station between communities and the proposed al-Menya site might be viable. In the first phase of the project a transfer station in South Hebron is proposed. Others may be developed at a later stage subject to need and the availability of suitable sites.

Alternative Waste Disposal Systems

The recognized principles for dealing with MSW in an environmentally responsible manner can be summarized in a “waste management hierarchy” where the highest priority is to avoid generating waste in the first instance or, if waste is generated, the quantity is minimized. The next best option is to re-use or recycle materials as much as practicable, or to employ waste treatment technologies with the aim of recovering materials and/or energy while minimizing the quantities of waste requiring final disposal. Depositing waste into engineered landfill is considered the least acceptable option, to be used only when other alternatives have been exhausted or are not practicable or applicable. The study has considered to what extent alternatives to landfill are appropriate in the southern West Bank. The findings are as follows

Avoid and Minimize Experience in Asia, Europe and North America indicates that programs aimed at waste minimization must be undertaken at the level of both central government and local government, often over a prolonged period of time. Waste minimization programs require both a ‘carrot’ and a ‘stick’ approach, involving a range of incentives, educational campaigns and awareness programs, combined with legislation and statutory instruments which address the quantities of waste generated at source (for example, packaging materials). The latter requires a significant degree of political will to instigate, since invariably there are costs to be borne by industry and the consumer/purchaser.

The SWBSWMP includes institutional and capacity development actions aimed at waste minimization. The effectiveness of these will not be apparent until sometime in the future. It is, however, unlikely that waste generation will be reduced to a level at which the landfill is unnecessary in the foreseeable future.

Recovery, Recycle and/or Re-use The West Bank already has an informal materials recovery and recycling sector, but only with respect to recyclable metals. Experience elsewhere in Gaza indicates that, in the absence of economic instruments or incentives to promote recycling, little potential exists currently for materials recovery to be increased in a cost-effective and self-sustaining manner. Notwithstanding that, the current waste stream offers some potential for materials recovery, although insufficient to reduce the volume of material going to landfill significantly. It is worth taking action to promote materials recovery however, to reduce the rate of increase of waste volume and to provide

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 26 - livelihood possibilities to waste pickers who will be displaced when the existing dumpsites are closed. The potential for waste recovery has been examined therefore and elements have been included in the project.

Treatment A range of re-use and treatment technologies have been developed to extract value from waste and minimize the quantities of waste that are delivered to a landfill for final disposal. Commercially-proven technologies include composting, anaerobic digestion/bio-gas production and waste to energy, including incineration. International experience has been that it is extremely difficult to make composting schemes commercially viable. Nevertheless composting could be economically viable in the current project because of the high organic content of solid waste in the Governorates (around 60 % of the waste stream). On the basis of this, plus the waste arising from food markets and selectively retrieved agricultural waste, there is potential for a pilot composting scheme to be developed, with an initial input rate of between 15 t to 25 t per day. If successful this could reduce the volume of MSW being generated in the service area of the Governorates by 9-15 %.

Composting in the rural communities of the Hebron and Bethlehem governorates is feasible at household level (based on PHG and other NGOs experience). The organic fraction of household waste can be composted using simply made wood boxes. The dissemination of the idea requires starting pilot and demonstration projects. There is a ready demand for the compost in the West Bank where bituminous soil is mostly imported at high cost, and the soils often require improvement of moisture content storage and porosity. Currently, in the Hebron-Bethlehem area, one kg of compost costs more than one NIS.

Waste to Energy Anaerobic digesters can be used for processing wastes to produce biogas for fuel. Suitable wastes for digestion are usually slurries and liquid wastes of a constant composition. There are no large-scale, commercially viable, schemes in operation at present which use MSW as a feedstock. It is therefore considered unlikely that bio- gas systems will have any significant role to play in the Hebron and Bethlehem Governorates.

Aside from bio-gas production, other forms of waste to energy schemes attempt to mobilize the calorific value of waste by physical or chemical combustion. Through the process of combustion the volume of waste is reduced considerably, by up to 90 %, leaving only the residue to be disposed to landfill. However, methods to reduce the volume of waste to be disposed are not considered to be economically viable without energy recovery, and for energy recovery in excess of 100 tons/day of high calorific wastes is required. Waste in the project catchment has too high moisture content and too low calorific value for incineration to be a viable option at present.

Summary The alternative disposal/treatment options cannot provide a sustainable and comprehensive solution that meets all project objectives. This can only be done by developing a basic infrastructure (i.e. collection, transfer and disposal system) that is environmentally secure and operationally sound. As such an engineered (sanitary) landfill should be viewed as the primary, and currently most appropriate, method for

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 27 - disposal of waste in the Governorates. Nevertheless some of the options for reducing the volume of waste could complement the landfill, particularly in future phases when the quantity of waste grows and the composition may change. Complementary reduction, minimization and treatment measures will be considered in the further development of the proposed project.

Alternative Sites for the Landfill

To identify better locations for waste disposal, a site selection study was conducted. The objective was to develop a selection concept, to make an inventory of potential locations for regional landfills, and to develop consensus about the ranking of the locations. Housing areas, buffer zone around housing areas, influence zones around water wells, were some of excluding criteria applied in searching for a suitable location for a new regional landfill. If land acquisition was considered impossible because of expected difficulties to reach agreements with the owner(s), these areas were excluded from the search area. Land used for agricultural and industrial production was also excluded from the search area . This is in line with the main objective of the World Bank’s policy on involuntary resettlement: “Involuntary resettlement should be avoided where feasible, or minimized, exploring all viable alternative project designs”. Consequently only arid areas, where land can only be used for grazing purposes, entered the short list of potential landfill locations.

The site selection short listing process also considered issues such as social, planning and political/juridical factors. Then a four phase approach (exclusion, reduction, scoring and ranking) was used to evaluate a total of 15 potential landfill sites that had been suggested by the local authorities and the Israeli Civil Administration. In all 11 of the potential sites were assessed in detail by international and local experts and for each of the visited sites a field report and description was made. A detailed Site Investigation Report was issued in April 2008

After all locations were identified and assessed, al-Menya site (no. 12 on Figure 3.1) located between the municipalities of Hebron and Bethlehem was judged to be the best option. This selected site is located at a distance of about 2 km south-east of al- Menya village. The site area is about 25 ha which is sufficient to allow waste disposal for at least 20 years.

The preferred site was chosen due to its location approximately midway between the two governorates to be served by the project and because the geology, surrounding land uses and ecological setting all indicated that the potential for significant negative environmental and social impacts was less than at other sites. The site technical specifications are the best of those visited and there are no significant difficulties anticipated with regard to land lease or ownership transfer. The site lies within “Area C” as designated by the Israeli Civil Administration, which means that certain activities and movements may be restricted, but formal consent in principle has been granted by the Israeli authorities to use the site.

The Preferred Option for the Disposal of MSW

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 28 - A concept and design for the regional waste management system has been developed focusing on the preferred location for the regional landfill site in area of the al-Menya local council and for the transfer station south of the city of Hebron. A feasibility study has been also conducted and the ESIA studies reported in this document were carried out. The key features of the design are set out in the following sub-sections in sufficient detail to allow the reader to identify and assess the environmental and social impacts. Full details of the design are set out in the Feasibility Report.

Figure 0.2: Selected site for the Regional Sanitary Landfill

Landfill Design Features

National and international technical regulations and guidance require that a modern sanitary landfill design should incorporate basic features to protect the environment. These include measures to contain, collect and, if necessary, treat contaminated water (leachate), as well as measures to collect and treat landfill gas and systems to control the amount and types of waste entering the site.

Taking into account the above considerations, the projected nature and quantity of the waste to be received (about 4,9 million m³ over a 20 year period, see Section 3.2) and the topography of the preferred site, conceptual designs of landfill were prepared. The basic features are outlined below.

Site dimensions • Length: 750 m in maximum

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 29 - • Width: 370 m in maximum • Area: 25.4 ha , total (20.4 ha for landfilling)

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 30 - Volume of landfill The landfill site was divided into four development stages (each of 2 cells). Each phase will have a lifetime (filling time with waste) of 5 years. The maximum height of the filled waste amounts to about 40m. According to the waste volume forecast for the Hebron / Bethlehem Governorate the following waste volumes and the necessary site areas (A) were designed: • 2010 – 2014: waste volume = 1,1 Mio. m³ A ~ 50.000 m² • 2015 – 2019: waste volume = 2,3 Mio. m³ A ~ 100.000 m² • 2020 – 2024: waste volume = 3,6 Mio. m³ A ~ 150.000 m² • 2025 – 2029: waste volume = 4,9 Mio. m³ A = 204.000 m²

Landfill Components The design, in its final stage, of the landfill shall include: 1. landfill itself (including cell division) 2. base sealing system 3. leachate collection and evaporation pond 4. internal roads 5. fence and gate 6. weighing bridge 7. buildings ( administration building, reception building, vehicle and maintenance shop) 8. parking area 9. water storage 10. rain water drainage system 11. recycling and composting plant (optional) 12. gas collection and energy recovery system 13. storage of materials 14. vegetation plan

Layout of the Site As indicated in Figure 3.3 the landfill will be divided into 8 cells; one for every 2-3 years operation. These cells will be separated by dikes, so that no rainwater from cells which are not in operation can flow to the actual filling cell. Maximum leachate discharge (worst case scenario) to the leachate pond will occur when the 4th cell is at the beginning of its fill (so most of the rain becomes leachate without almost no retention in the waste ) and the other 3 former operated (cells 1,2,3 are covered only with a temporary cover layer. not fully impervious) which are still generating leachate but at a reduced rate.

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 31 - Figure 0.3: General Layout of the sit,

Base Sealing System The base of the landfill will be sealed so that leachate generated can be retained inside the landfill and collected for safe disposal. Ideally the natural subsoil underneath and surrounding a landfill would constitute a geological barrier. As none of the proposed site in the Hebron / Bethlehem governorates have suitable soil (the subsoil of the site areas consists either of rocky material or of sandy materials), an integrated base lining system using a geo-membrane will be installed. The integrated liner will consist of an upper (primary) geo-membrane liner to collect the leachate, and a lower (secondary) GCL mat liner as a backup to the primary liner.

Geo-textiles may be used in conjunction with the membranes to prevent the movement of small soil and refuse particles into the leachate collection layers and to protect geo-membranes from punctures. These materials allow the movement of water but trap particles to reduce clogging in the leachate collection system.

Geo-membranes and geo-textiles can be constructed from various plastic materials, including polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and high-density polyethylene (HDPE). The selected material for this project is HDPE. This material is strong, resistant to most chemicals, and impermeable to water. It meets international standards (European and World Bank) for permeability. Moreover it has been used successfully in the Jenin landfill. A support layer is necessary between the mostly rocky ground material and the sealing system. The drainage layer will be made out of gravel material with a grain size of 16/32 mm or 8/16mm.

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 32 - The base sealing system will therefore be as follows.

• 400 gr/m2 non-woven geotextile or 30 cm sandy-silt material layer. GCL mat 3.7 Kg/m2, mm or 45 cm clay layers with permeability that will not exceed 10-7 cm /sec. • Geo membrane HDPE, 1.5 mm thick. • 500 gr/m2 non woven geo-textile. • 40 cm drainage layer (dolomite or volcanic gravel, size16-32 mm).

See Figure 3.4

Figure 0.4 The Base Sealing System

Leachate collection Leachate is generated due to chemical processes in the landfill, the water content of the waste deposited at the site and the inevitable infiltration of rainwater during operation of the site. It contains several organic and inorganic pollutants and need to be collected and treated.

HDPE pipes will be used for leachate collection. A main leachate collecting pipe will be located in the deepest point of the landfill area running nearly from north-west to south-east. Leachate drain pipes will be placed at right angles or less to the main pipe. Inclination of leachate pipes system will be a minimum of 2 % for leachate drain pipes and of 3 % for main leachate pipes.

All leachate flow will be drained to the lowest points (for each main pipe). At those points, a pumping pit will be arranged by extra depression of the area at the south-

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 33 - west corner of cells no. 1 and no. 2. Those sensitive points will be protected by an extra geo-membrane. At those points, possible leakage will be monitored by the leakage drainage system under the pumping pit that will be connected to an observation pit out of cell, with free access.

On the slope of the pumping pits, high diameter raisers will be installed. Through the raiser, a suction pipe connected to a self-prime pumping system will be lowered to the bottom of the pumping pit. The pumping system control panel and manifold will be externally installed. The operation of the pumping stations will be automatic.

See Figure 3.5.

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 34 - Figure 0.5 Leachate Collection System

The dimensions and arrangement of the leachate pipes will be determined by the detailed design process using “worst case” assumptions on landfill operation not to allow leachate build-up head above 30 cm.

The upper end of each main will be raised to the top elevation of the cell embankment. The pipe will be closed with a flange. This installation will enable the verification of the existence of free flow through those pipes, although the expected longitudinal slope will be 10% approx. and no settlement or clogging in the pipe may be expected at this slope.

Leachate treatment In the collection pond, primary treatment of the leachate occurs naturally (sedimentation, natural biological degradation of organic pollutants and evaporation). Whenever necessary, (that is, if the leachate volume exceeds the capacity of the pond due to precipitation events) the leachate will be recirculated by spraying over the surface of already lined cells of the landfill. The design does not initially include secondary leachate treatment because the low rainfall and high evaporation characteristics of the project area indicate that it will not be necessary. However, the volume of leachate generated will be monitored throughout the operation of the landfill.

The HELP model for leachate generation provided the estimation that 50% of the annual rain over active cell and 10% over a temporary closed cell with intermediate cover will transform into "flowing" leachate. For the leachate generation estimation, it was assumed that one cell is active and the remainder, temporary closed.

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 35 - Using a high value of annual rain of 300 mm/a, (based on YATIR meteorological station, South of Hebron) the expected leachate generation is 6,240 m3/year.

According to Tzor’a station evaporation data (at the western Jerusalem heights), it may be expected that water annual evaporation rate will be 1400 mm/year; the surface of the leachate pond will be 4500 m2 approx. The depth of the pond considers the fact that during the winter time, the evaporation rate will decrease while rain intensity and leachate generation will increase.

The proposed dimensions of the leachate pond are: Area: top - 4900 m2, bottom - 3500 m2 Depth: 2 m Volume: 8,400 m3

The pond will be excavated in the natural ground, at a slope of 1:2.

Above the compacted sub-base, a protection layer will be installed (natural or synthetic). The sealing system will comprise two layers of HDPE geo-membrane with a thickness not less than 1.5 mm, each, separated by a drainage layer such as "Geonet" similar and a leakage detection system.

Gas collection & treatment The anaerobic decomposition of organic substances inside a landfill causes development of landfill gas. The gas can, in some circumstance, migrate away from the site and cause explosions. Best practice is to collect the gas and burn it, with energy recovery (eg a small power plant for energy or heat production) if feasible from the economical point of view.

With a good degasifying system it will be possible to collect at least 50 % of the produced gas. The landfill is actively degasified by means of a vertical gas collecting system. After filling each cell of the landfill vertical gas wells (gas vents) will be built into the waste. These allow gas to be collected through perforated HDPE pipes linked to a compressing station. A compensation layer between the waste and the mineral surface sealing of the filled cells will be constructed through which gas can flow easily and which allows supply to the gas vents.

The gas pumping station will be located in facilities zone at the northern part of the landfill. Inside the station blowers will provide the required negative pressure gradient in the landfill body which guarantees active degasifying at a high gas collection rate. The gas will be directed to a landfill gas flare beside the gas pumping station where the gas will be incinerated at temperatures of about 1,000-1,200° C. The possible use of the extracted gas for electricity or heat generation has not been considered at this stage of the project. There will be five year of operation at least before gas is collected from the first cell during which the feasibility of energy recovery can be considered.

Surface Water Collection The volume of rainwater or surface run-off that comes into contact with the waste in the landfill, or the leachate, should be minimized to reduce the potential for contamination. The surface of the waste body will to be covered intermediately during

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 36 - operation of the landfill and finally after closure of the landfill. The rainwater that flows from the surrounding areas and (after filling) from the surface seal of the landfill, will be captured by ditches around the landfill body and directed to the lowest point of the landfill, located to the south. The ditches along the landfill berms will be lined to avoid erosion of the cover layers of the closed cells. From this low point, the run-off water will be led by gravity to the wadi that drains away to the south-east direction. A rainwater retention pond is not necessary.

Detailed meteorological information applicable to the landfill site is not available. To estimate the depth of ditch needed to deal with extreme rainfall, therefore, a storm water event of 30 mm for a 60 minute rainfall has been assumed. This figure was then used for calculating maximum surface water discharge. Given that average yearly rain fall is 300 mm, such a storm water event would be a very rare occurrence.

Using the above assumption, the maximum discharge that the drainage system must cater for is 1,600 m³ in 60 minutes. That means that the ditch has to be designed to discharge 445 l/s at the deep point.

Waste filling The vehicles delivering waste have to unload the waste at a distance of about 10 m from the actual waste filling area. The waste is transported to the filling area using a compactor and will be filled into the cell by the compactor in layers with a maximum thickness of 50 cm. The waste filling area will be dimensioned in such a way that after approximately 3 days the next waste layer can be started. In this way odor is minimized and waste incorporation by the compactor prevents the production of wind-blown debris. Immediately after waste filling, the active disposal area will be covered with a soil layer of about 20 cm in thickness.

Surface Sealing System In order to achieve a total disposal volume of about 4.9 Mio. m³, in the area of the site, the waste has to be shaped into a pile with an inclination of 1:3, and the height of the final structure will be up to about 40 m (See Figure 3.6 and Figure 3.7). As a result a new “hill” will be created in the landscape. When the cells are filled, to prevent the infiltration of rainwater into the waste body, as well as to avoid the spread of waste to the surrounding area (caused by wind) the final waste body has to be covered by a surface sealing system. This will comprise the following

• A “compensation layer”, comprising 50 cm of sandy – silty material, between the body of waste and the sealing layer. This is necessary as a foundation for the sealing layer, protecting it from the rough structured waste body, and as a space within which landfill gas can accumulate and be extracted. Figure 0.6 Conceptual Closure Layout of the Landfill

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 37 - al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 38 - A “sealing layer”, which forms an impermeable barrier, keeping landfill gas inside and rainwater out of the body of waste. A bentonite mat will be used for the surface sealing layer, as appropriate clay is probably not available in this specific zone and, the alternatives are not suitable (asphalt has insufficient resistance against settlement of the waste body and “Bento-Kies” is too expensive. Textured HDPE geo- membrane be an alternative. Geo-textiles will be used as protection and drainage as required by the detailed design.

• A “drainage layer”, above the sealing layer through which rainwater falling on to the surface of the landfill can flow off, into the surface drainage channels. The drainage layer will be made out of gravel material with a grain size of 16/32 mm or 8/16 mm and a permeability of 1 x 10-3 m/s.

• A “recultivation layer” on which vegetation is grown to cover the structure and integrate it back into the natural surrounding environment.

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 39 - Figure 0.7 Typical Cross-Section of the Landfill

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 1 - Accident prevention and safety measures The following measures are planned: • Ground material of a volume of at least 200 m³ will be stored near the waste filling area for fire fighting on the landfill. • A utility water pipe sufficiently dimensioned for firefighting will be constructed nearby and around the facilities zone. • Smoking is only allowed in the staff room of the operation building. • In all buildings fire extinguisher have to be fixed. • Outside slopes will be covered with ground material until the surface sealing system is constructed.

Safety boots, safety gloves, weather protection clothes, ear protection and warning clothes for the staff guiding the truck to the place of disposal for vehicles will be available for every person who works on the landfill.

Control and monitoring measures The following control measures will be taken: • Control of the delivering vehicles (every vehicle) • Inspection and, if indicated, analysis of waste if it is suspected that it has been wrongly declared • Gas analysis (once a year) • Leachate analysis (once a year) • Inspection of all roads in the landfill area and of the fence during filling process (daily) • Inspection of all roads in the landfill area, the fence and the recultivated areas after closing time (weekly) • Topographical survey during filling (once a year) and after closing (once in 2 years) • Control of the quantity of leachate.

To ensure ground water protection, the construction of monitoring wells was considered. Due to the considerable depth of the ground water (150 – 200 m), monitoring wells at the ground water level will become ineffective, impractical and expensive. The alternative is to install several shallow wells that will enable gas detection in the unsaturated zone. This is a well-known practice in landfills with the same monitoring problem elsewhere in the region. Since gases will be produced during decomposition of waste, and their travel through (cracked) limestone layers is much faster and easier than water, gas tests will be able to show failure on the sealing system more rapidly than water monitoring systems.

Landfill Site Infrastructure and Access Roads

All roads inside the landfill area and the access road (from the last village to the site area) will be constructed in such a way that they can be used for duplex traffic by trucks. This means that the width of roads must be at least 6.5 m with drivable shoulders of about 1 m.

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 1 - Inside the site area no traffic lights or safeguarded pedestrian crossings are planned. The infrastructure for the landfill will be located north and south of the landfill and will be divided into two areas: • Entrance and infrastructure area (north of the landfill site) • Leachate pond (south-east of the landfill site)

The entrance and infrastructure area includes: • a control building where all necessary data for delivering trucks will be registered by the landfill staff and with the possibility of waste control (fixed installed ladder), • a weighing bridge with a length of 18 m and a weight registration up to 40 Mg (including a data link to the control building), • a wheel cleaning unit for trucks that will leave the landfill area (wheel cleaning with water) • a container area (concrete-paved area) for recycling activities and for safe-guarding of undefined waste (inspection area) - area of about 300 m² to 400 m² • a parking area for 10 cars, at least • an operation building (size about 200 m²) including meeting (conference) room, toilets, dressing rooms, laboratory, kitchen with a rest room, security room and offices (offices are provided for staff of JSC-H&B as well as for administrative and technical staff of the landfill) • a garage (size about 400 m²) which serves as the shelter for all mechanical equipment to be used at the landfill • a fuel tank (volume of about 5.000 l) • an emergency generator • a septic tank for sewage • a basic weather station for recording wind speed and direction, humidity and rainfall • a basic laboratory for analyzing samples of waste, groundwater and leachate (laboratory is located inside the operation building)

The landfill is supplied with water and energy (including a transformer) from the local networks. A telecommunication supply is also provided.

North-west of the proposed sites an enlargement of the site area is possible for material storage (waste coverage) as well as for later recycling activities. If necessary, during landfill operation for the first 10 years, the enlargement area for the second 10 years operation can be used for (excavated) cover material storage.

The total landfill area will be surrounded by a fence. The access to the site can be closed by a gate.

Construction of Roads

The existing access roads to the landfill are presently unpaved and show insufficient width and tonnage capacity. Also they are not suitable since they pass through a residential area. Therefore a new by-pass road will be constructed and the existing access roads enlarged to a width of at least 5 m.

The following design criteria have been adopted for the access and internal roads: • Maximum slope : about 11 % (adapted to the topographical situation) • Cross slope : 2% • Maximum speed 30 km/h • Minimum radius: there is no limitation on the classification

Width of roads : access road and road at the entrance zone: asphalt paved, 6.5 m wide with shoulders 1-1.5 m and ditches ,where necessary ,, other internal roads: unpaved, 7 m wide, min.

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 2 - The access road and all bituminous paved areas will have the following sub-structure: • 5 cm asphalt layer • 8 cm binder layer • 20 cm crushed stone base • 20 cm sub-base layer

Phasing of Landfill Operation The landfill will be operated for a period of 20 years. To avoid a situation where a major part of the landfill is prepared long before it is due to become operational (‘dead capital’), five construction phases are foreseen: • Phase 1 : construction of a sealed area under cells 1 and 2, for a filling period of 4-5 years, • Phase 2 : construction of a sealed area under cells 3 and 4, , for a filling period of 4-5 years, temporary closure of cell 1 and 2, • Phase 3 : construction of a sealed area under cells 5 and 6, for a filling period of 5-6 years, temporary closure of cell 3 and 4, final closure of cells 1 and 2 , • Phase 4 : construction of a sealed area under cells 7 and 8, , for a filling period of 6-7 years, temporary closure of cell 1 and 2, final closure of cells 3 and 4 , • Phase 5: final cover of all remaining filled and open areas.

Landfill Decommissioning and Aftercare Phase

After closure of the landfill, the area will be restored as grazing fields, which was the land function before the construction of the landfill. For about five years the landfill leachate will still be collected and monitored. It is expected that afterwards, the landfill materials will have fully settled, and will not generate additional leachate. Closure layers will limit water entering the body of waste to reduce leachate generation.

It is further expected that about 90 percent of the geotechnical settlement will occur in the first five years after completion of the landfill, although it may continue for 25 or more years at a slower rate. This will not limit the grazing functions of the reclaimed land, but it will prevent the site being used for any activities that require heavy machinery or construction.

A final closure plan shall be made before the completion of the landfill, including the following aspects:

• Periodic landfill inspections (for 2 years) • Settlement, cover soil integrity and a need for grading; • Buffers and planting of vegetation; • Sediment and erosion control facilities (5 years); • Fencing (2 years); • Leachate and gas controls (5 years); • Regular intervals of monitoring. • Cover soil shall be at least 60 centimeters deep for grass establishment and 90 centimeters for trees. • The soil over the entire planting area shall be amended with lime, fertilizer and/or organic matter according to soil tests before planting. These materials shall be incorporated into the top 15 centimeters of soil.

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 3 - • Shrubs and other ground cover that will be planted shall be landfill-tolerant species, typical to the landfill location, compatible to arid climate with very low irrigation requirement. It will be considered that the irrigation will be limited to the planting phase only.

The Transfer Station

A transfer station will be constructed in the southern industrial zone of Hebron City, a distance of around 25 km to the al-Menya landfill, to serve municipalities in the southern region of Hebron, the southern neighborhoods of Hebron City and the Southern industrial zone of Hebron City. The land is completely owned by Hebron municipality with an area of about 1.8 ha. It is about 1,000 meters from the main road (road 60) which connect all the major cities it the West Bank and runs close by the landfill. The area needed for the transfer station is about 0.4 ha.

The site is surrounded by factories and workshops. In addition there are some residential buildings starting at a distance of around 130 m way. The nearest factories, a few meters away from the site, include lathing workshops, plastic manufacturers, carpentry workshops, aluminum workshops, and leather manufacturers (tanneries). The surrounding land is privately owned and apart from the aforementioned industrial, commercial and residential buildings there are small areas that are vacant lots. The generators of waste that are expected to be served by the transfer station and the expected quantities of waste are listed in Table 3.7.

Table 0.7: Solid Waste Generators and waste quantities expected in the Transfer Station

Waste Generator Waste quantity (2010) Waste quantity (2020) ton/day ton/day Dura JSC 58 70 Yatta + JSC 52 63 Al-Dhariya 22 27 Samou 16 19 Taffoo 8 10 Idna 16 19 Tarqumiya 12 14 Hebron (southern part) 52 62 Total 236 284

Transport of Waste into the Facility: Around 30 RCVs/day carrying 236 tons of MSW (in 2010) increasing to 35 RCVs/day in 2020. Trucks will approach the site along the main road of the industrial zone. The road takes two-way traffic and is 8.0 meters wide - enough to cope with the expected traffic frequency. Measures will be taken in order to facilitate integration of site traffic with the passing traffic, including the demarcation of a special merging lane, traffic signs, speed controls, etc. Access to and exit from the site will be via two separate lanes, each 3.6 m wide. In the area between the lanes, a control room for the weigh bridge operator will be built. The facility area will be divided into two levels at different elevations. The RCVs will drive up to the higher level and discharge their waste through a hopper (a steel or concrete funnel) into containers at the lower level. The minimum difference between

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 4 - levels will be 4.0 m in order to allow the use of hoppers with sufficient capacity and to enable the use of high capacity trailers for reception and transportation of waste in emergency situations (such as, for example, the breakdown of compactors).

The two levels will be connected by 6 m wide ramps, and the traffic will flow in one direction only. The width of the lane will enable two-way traffic in case one of the lanes becomes blocked. The longitudinal slope of the ramps will not exceed 12.5% and 1.0 m wide safety sidewalks will be constructed along them.

The upper level surface will be 25 m wide in order to facilitate turning and backward maneuvering of the collection truck. The lower surface will be wide enough (25-30 m) to enable safe maneuvering and loading/unloading of containers. The upper and the lower levels will be separated by concrete retaining walls.

Figure 0.8 Aerial View of Proposed Transfer Station Site

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 5 - Unloading of Trucks: The RCVs will unload into a closed compaction Roll-On-Roll Off (RORO) container through a hopper. The system will comprise two stationary compactors with at least 8 m3 hoppers. The expected capacity of each compactor will be 30-35 ton/hour. This capacity is larger than necessary to manage the average load so that: the operation can be completed fewer hours; peak hours can be managed without vehicles having to queue for too long; there will be spare time for maintenance; and, service can continue even in case of breakdown of one of the compactors.

Figure 0.9 View of Lower Level of Proposed Transfer Station Site

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 6 - Filling and Compaction of Waste The compactors will be operated in conjunction with 32 m3 compaction RORO containers. One container will be connected to each compactor while 2-3 empty containers will be positioned over a common rail for the two compactors. Underneath the rail, a hydraulic trolley will move and lift the filled containers ready for transportation and then lift an empty container to be positioned and attached to the compactor. A maximum of six full containers can be positioned on the rail containing a total of up to 100 tons of waste.

Beside the mechanical system, the transfer station will maintain two positions for 37- 40 m3 open top RORO containers or 60 m3 trailers. Those will constitute a backup system in case of mechanical failure of a compactor, or a transfer vehicle; and in cases when very high peak loads exceed the capacity of the mechanical system.

Figure 0.10 View of Upper Level of Proposed Transfer Station Site

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 7 - Transport to Landfill Two RORO trucks will be used to haul the waste over the 25 km between the transfer station and the landfill. The trucks have a trailer allowing them to carry two containers, or around 30 – 20 tons per trip. Between them they will need to execute 6 - 7 round trips per day. It is possible for each vehicle to complete nine round trips daily (taking around one hour per trip) so there is spare capacity to allow for increased future waste loads.

Maintenance of Trucks A facility will be provided for maintenance of the transfer trucks, other repairs of equipment such as containers, and other mechanical and electrical workshop activities. This will be a building with dimensions 12X5 m and a concrete floor. A truck wheel-wash facility will be constructed on the exit lane of the site. This will enable drivers of transfer trucks and RCVs to wash the vehicles’ wheels before leaving the site. The facility will comprise a 4X10 m concrete slab, washing equipment, and drainage system

Figure 0.11: Roll-on-Roll-Off Truck with Container

Control of Wastewater Drainage at the transfer station will be designed so that uncontaminated run-off from the surrounds will be separated from water that may have been contaminated by contact with the waste. Potentially contaminated water will be collected at low points by grated catch pits and channels. It will then be transferred to a storage vessel from where it will be emptied into septic tanker vehicle and taken to the landfill, for disposal via the leachate pond (Disposal to public sewer was considered but rejected

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 8 - as potentially too polluting, particularly since Hebron does not have a municipal wastewater treatment plant). Wastewater from the social and office facilities will be connected directly to the public sewer.

Infrastructure It is estimated that the transfer station will employ around 11 staff as follows:

1 Manager of TS 2 Compactor operator 1 Weigh bridge operator 2 Service employees 1 mechanical/electrical maintenance employee 2 Transfer trucks drivers 2 guards (by night)

There will be an office and social facilities occupying around 100 m2 which will provide accommodation for workers to change clothing, wash, eat and rest. There will also be office facilities for site supervisors and support staff, as well as for training and meetings.

Parking lots will be constructed for 6-10 private cars. In addition, 4 overnight parking lots for the transfer trucks will be provided that can also be used as temporary parking for collection trucks during the day. A special concrete slab shall be cast for storage of 4-6 containers. ˜

The facility will be secured by fencing and gate control facilities, including a weighbridge. These will enable monitoring of all incoming and outgoing collection vehicles and outgoing transfer vehicles. The fence will be a solid 2.5 m high fence will have the additional functions of preventing the escape of wind-blown waste from the site and minimizing the visual and noise impacts. Around the fence, a buffer zone belt will be developed. This will comprise a ditch to divert rainwater run-off from the adjacent area away from the site and vegetation (trees and bushes) to further screen the site and reduce visual intrusion.

Utilities, Accident Prevention and Safety Measures Water will be obtained from the public supply for use in the offices and for operational uses such as truck washing, wheel-washing, hosing down hard surfaces and irrigation of green areas and buffer zones. A fire-fighting water system will be set up comprising a 6" loop with fire hydrants every 50 m or less as specified by the Hebron Fire Department.

Preliminary estimation is that electricity requirement of the facility will be 150 Amp current at 220 V. This will also be obtained from the local grid through a main switch board in the office building. In the same location, a control board for the lightning system will installed. There will be a 50 kVA Stand-by generator.

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 9 - Figure 0.12: Site Layout of Proposed Transfer Station

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 10 - Remediation and Closure of Existing Waste Dumps

Introduction

Part of SWBSWMP will be the remediation and closure of some of the existing dumping sites. Priority will be given to the largest and most polluting, particularly the Yatta site, and those operating sites nearest to the new proposed landfill site. Details of closure scenarios are included in the feasibility study, the following outlines the principal element of remediation.

Improvement and Continued Operation of the Yatta Site

During the implementation of the proposed project, it is expected that Yatta dump will still receive waste until the new landfill becomes operational (a period of about 5 years after project initiation). This requires that the Yatta operational conditions be improved, even though, for the past two years waste burning has been minimized and the waste is covered daily.

Site conditions will be improved through the following steps:

• Making a list with the waste-pickers entering the site and limiting the waste-picking process to 10 minutes for each truck at the entrance of the filling area. Children will not be allowed. • Starting to plan for waste filling for next 5 years by identifying 3-5 micro-sites for waste filling based on the available and suitable spaces in the site. • Starting to cover with thick soil the areas that have no further capacity to accept waste. • Monitoring the places with high gas release and trying to extend pipes that collect the gas from confined spaces to allow gas escape. • Spraying the site in summer time using insecticide. • Collecting any plastic bags in the surrounding in order to protect animals from swallowing such material • Trying to open the minds and eyes of those interested in waste recycling to organize themselves in a better way and conducting meetings with them to see what is their best option to be involved in the proposed new project. • Selecting an area at the down slope of the filling area that can be used for leachate accumulation. This area can be excavated to form a pond then can be lined with a 0.5 m compacted clay layer and plastic lining can be applied. The pond will be fitted with submersible circulating pumps which will automatically spray the leachate back over the waste bulk to allow further evaporation of the wastewater and accelerate degradation of the waste.

Remediation and Closure of Dump Sites

The needs at the Yatta site give a good example of what needs to be done to close the existing dump sites safely and prevent further environmental damage. The site is the largest and encompasses the upstream portion of the catchment of two important wadis. The current waste-containing area exceeds 14 ha. The site needs re-opening and cleaning of the wadis with sediment removal and transfer to the top of the waste bulk. A diversion channel for runoff water is also required. Most important is the construction of retaining walls around the perimeter. The site requires covering with a liner and placement of a layer of 0.5-1 m of soft earth filling - dividing the whole surface area into smaller catchments (4 at least) that contain gravitational outlets (such as ditches constructed by shaping the soil filling under or over the liner).

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 11 -

The liner should be fitted underneath the base of the stone retaining wall to be sure that the wadi flow does not come into contact with the waste or damage the construction work after some years of operation. After appropriate closure, the surface of the site will allow the collection of about 20,000 m3 of water. This could be stored in earthen pools by farmers who own the neighboring land, for use in irrigation in summer time. This will speed the conversion of the area into agricultural land. Planting the site with trees should not be allowed because this may allow liner damage by deep roots.

Detailed site remediation plans are available as part of the Feasibility Study documentation.

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 12 - Identification of Key Issues (Scoping)

Background It is good practice to focus the ESIA studies on the particular environmental and social issues which are most likely to give rise to the most significant impacts or are of great concern to the decision makers and stakeholders. This allows the available resources to be focused where they are most needed and the ESIA report to focus on issues relevant to decision making. It also helps ensure that the environmental information used for decision making provides a complete picture of the important effects of the project, including issues of particular concern to affected groups and individuals. The result is that the environmental information provides a balanced view and is not burdened with irrelevant information. The study can, therefore, focus resources on the important issues for decision-making and avoid wasted effort on issues of little relevance.

The identification of the new landfill site was the result of an extensive feasibility study and site selection process. During this process there was a great deal of consultation on the suitability of the 14 sites investigated, the design of the landfill and the location and design of the transfer station. Moreover, the context of the project is one in which the unprotected dumping sites scattered over the southern region of the West Bank have been giving rise to severe environmental and social concerns. These have included smog and smoke, surface and groundwater contamination plus the social and health problems associated with unregulated waste picking, which affects the poorest people in the site neighborhood. The need to address these issues was a large influence in promoting the proposed project. Some of the key environmental and social issues were therefore at the forefront of the planning and design of the project.

Identification of Impact Areas

Causes of Impacts

Development activities may give rise to environmental and social impacts when physical changes caused by construction, operation or decommissioning of facilities interact with sensitive aspects of the receiving, environment, where the receiving environment comprises human beings and human systems plus biological organisms and biological systems. The currently proposed project includes the construction of a sanitary landfill site and waste transfer station(s), waste hauling facilities and improvements to the current SWM system to alleviate short term problems. The potential for impacts arises primarily from the following physical changes.

• Land taken for siting facilities and infrastructure and for improvement of roads • Movement of heavy vehicles • Emissions from the waste (leachate, odor, litter, smoke) • Control of the sites (restriction of access) • Activity at the sanitary landfill site • Remediation of the waste dumps

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 13 - The Receiving Environment

The changes in the physical environment result in environmental and social impacts depending on the existing characteristics of the areas affected in terms of the land use, socio-economic status, ecology, hydrology and hydrogeology etc. The site selection process revealed that the al-Menya site has few environmental or social drawbacks. The site is mostly bounded by hilly areas and there are few inhabitants close by. The site topsoil is composed of approximately 40% clay underlain by limestone. Ideally the site would have a natural impermeable barrier to the movement of leachate; however, none of the investigated sites in the target area had such a geological barrier (usually consisting of clayey materials). The groundwater depth at the site is in excess of 200 m.

The land for the landfill site and access roads is mostly barren vacant land used for occasional grazing. It will be purchased from private vendors. Hebron municipality already owns the land needed for the proposed transfer station in Wadi Samina (Southern Hebron). This is a vacant lot in an industrial zone.

Other affected sites include the waste dumps that are to be closed and rehabilitated. Waste pickers operate at some of these, particularly at the Yatta dump site. There are about 40 households that depend on the income generated from waste picking at the Yatta site. The waste-pickers include children and are exposed to health and safety risks including respiratory and skin related diseases.

Impacts to be addressed in the study

Introduction

Considering the initial overview of the project and the receiving environment outlined above, together with the opinions and expectations of the stakeholders, the key issues to be addressed by the ESIA study were identified. Following from this, the objectives and methods used to conduct the baseline studies and the analysis of impacts would be determined and priorities for mitigation set. Other potential impacts were also studied, however, and where significant effects were identified, these were addressed in mitigation proposals and the Environmental and Social Management Plan (ESMP).

Key Impact Areas

This section provides an overview of the key environmental and social impacts and a description of the analysis of these impacts that was undertaken in this study.

Land use: the increased collection of waste throughout the region will lead to a reduction in land spoiled by illicit waste dumping and littering. On balance, it is considered that the potential impacts will be mostly positive. Disposing of waste is however potentially polluting in a variety of ways. This study examines the effects of the project on land uses and values to ensure that siting has been undertaken sensitively and pragmatically to protect land owners, land users and neighbors as well as any natural or cultural value.

Impacts related to potential ground and surface water contamination: The project is within an arid area with limited surface and groundwater resources.

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 14 - Decomposing waste within the landfill and during collection and transfer is potentially very polluting if it comes into contact with water resources. Moreover, the entire area around the project lacks natural barriers to the migration of water into aquifers. This study pays a great deal of attention to the movement of water above and below the surface and how the design of the facility addresses these. Attention has also been paid to the predicted quantities and management of waste water, the protection of water resources, surface drainage and the ultimate fate of water passing through and around the project sites.

Socio-economic and cultural impacts: Fences will enclose the al-Menya landfill and the transfer station(s) for safety purposes. Access to the facilities will be restricted to licensed operators. As a result a large number of individuals who enter the old landfill site in Yatta freely, and collect valuable wastes for resale, will have their livelihoods affected. The waste-pickers may choose to migrate close to the site of the proposed new landfill, and residents in those areas worry that their presence, perhaps in informal housing, may cause social tension and lower property values. Other affected parties are those who used the proposed new site for grazing. The study has therefore investigated the social issues surrounding replacement livelihoods, compensation and resettlement for affected people as a key issue in the ESIA.

Traffic Impacts: The new SWM system entails many more movements of large vehicles, sometimes on small roads. The absolute volume of additional traffic is not large, but there is potential for traffic congestion, excessive wear and tear on local roads and safety threats to other road users, especially children. The routes available to the waste transfer vehicles and the RCVs are thoroughly investigated in the ESIA to ensure that the chosen routes and the design of the landfill and transfer station accesses are adequate to minimize adverse effects.

General Environmental Quality: A major purpose of the project proposals will be to improve environmental quality. There will be effects in terms of odor and air quality impacts (associated with waste decomposition and waste burning as well as dust from construction and vehicle movements), noise (traffic and site operations), visual and landscape impacts (the visual impression created during operations, the appearance after closure, and the potential presence of windblown detritus/litter). There is also a potential impact from vermin such as flying insects, scavenging birds, rats, etc. if the facilities are not operated in accordance with good practice. The stakeholders place great importance on the maintenance of good environmental quality at the new site, and the management procedures to control these are therefore a key focus of the ESIA.

Potential impact of landfill gas. Landfill gas is a product of the degradation of waste materials under anaerobic conditions (i. e. in the absence of oxygen). With its high content of methane and toxic and inflammable gases, the generation of landfill gas poses significant risks to human, animal and plant health and life. The risk is greatest where gas is allowed to build-up in confined spaces, such as within buildings or in collapsed void spaces within the deposited waste. Accordingly, the study has investigated how the design will incorporate measures to minimize these risks, and assessed the residual impact.

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 15 - Other Impacts

Other potential impacts of the proposed project are not expected to cause significant impacts either because of the nature of the site or due to the relative ease with which they can be avoided or mitigated. Such issues have not be treated as key impacts unless they were identified as such by stakeholders. Nevertheless these have been subject to scrutiny during the ESIA, the impacts assessed against significance criteria and the necessary design or operational measures included in the ESMP. They include the following.

Seismic Impacts: The impacts from potential seismic activity cannot be completely mitigated in landfill development. Nevertheless, the risk of breach in the liner, is not one which is of catastrophic consequences. Moreover, all practicable engineering and operational mitigation measures have been incorporated into the landfill design to minimize any potential impact from seismic activity and any associated fault displacement.

Impacts related to off-site Sourcing of Landfill Earthwork Materials: If site engineering works make a large demand on the importation of materials sourced from off-site, there could be environmental damage at such sites. As far as practicable, materials won from the al-Menya site will be stored and used in landfill construction and as cover material. Use of imported material will be subject to permitting to ensure that environmental impacts at the borrow sites are kept to a minimum.

Impacts related to Contamination of Water Resources by Fuel Spillage: Potential contamination exists for fuel/lubricant spillage in the waste reception area from activities associated with vehicle refueling, repair and maintenance. These are readily controlled by good operational practices.

Potential Health Impacts of MSW Disposal: The operational practices advocated for site management and operation are designed, inter alia, to minimize any potential health risks from the disposal of MSW.

Impacts related to emission of greenhouse gases. Emission of green house gases under the proposed project is expected to be considerable less than in comparison with the current solid waste disposal and dumping practices, due to the proposed landfill gas collection system and the flaring of the gas

Impacts related to biodiversity and ecological habitats. The proposed landfill site is largely devoid of natural vegetation, with bedrock outcrops dominating the valley flanks and agriculture on the valley floor. The transfer station site is already paved and set inside a built-up industrial area. There are no important ecosystems recorded within or in the immediate vicinity of the sites. Accordingly the development is likely to have little impact on biodiversity or ecological habitats.

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 16 - Impacts related to Littering and Cleanliness During Waste Transit. It is envisaged that waste delivered to the project site will be enclosed either in a RCV or haulage container or will be covered by tarpaulin, sheet or netting (in the case of open bulk-loaded containers). This practice will ensure that waste materials do not spill onto public roads.

Impacts on the Cultural Heritage. There are no known places of archaeological, religious or cultural significance at any of the proposed sites, nor have any artifacts been found or previous land uses been identified that might suggest that there will be any impacts on cultural sites or property.

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 17 -

PUBLIC CONSULTATION

Background

The Palestinian Environmental Assessment Policy prescribes that project proponents consult stakeholders during the scoping and implementation of ESIA. The scoping and site selection of project ESIA was conducted in 2008. For the scoping phase the Consultant conducted semi-structured interviews with representatives of the Joint Service Councils of Hebron Governorate and Bethlehem City, and with an NGO in Bethlehem city, which is engaged in applied research, training and public awareness campaigns in natural resources management. Through the scoping study the stakeholders in a regional solid waste management project were identified, together with their concerns.

The scoping study was used to develop a stakeholder consultation plan for the ESIA. Two types of public participation were planned. Firstly, the consultation of communities and interest groups that are directly affected by the proposed project. Secondly, public hearings for stakeholders not directly affected by but interested in the proposed project. The distinction between public consultation and public hearing is not only based on the targeted audience, it is also based on objectives and the applied methodology. For the consultations the project proponent takes an active role in visiting the target audience to explore their social and environmental concerns about the proposed project, and explores what potential mitigating measures they request for supporting the proposed project. For public hearing the target audience is invited to participate in the event and given the opportunity to express their concerns about environmental and social and financial impacts of the proposed project, and propose adjustment or alternatives to the proposed plans.

Overview and Methodology

Stakeholder Consultation Plan

The Stakeholder Consultation Plan makes a division between three phases: scoping, stakeholder consultation and public hearings. During the scoping phase the issues and concerns of stakeholders were explored to prepare the SWBSWMP consultation plan. During the stakeholder consultation phase stakeholders that will be affected by the proposed project were visited and their concerns and conditions for support explored. During the public hearings the interested parties in solid waste management were informed about the project and given the opportunity to explain their concerns and propose modifications to the proposed plan.

The scoping for the proposed project showed that mainly local government authorities and directly affected communities and interest groups are the main stakeholders. Solid waste management is a basic public service and the mandate of local government authorities. Municipalities and local councils are responsible for the formal SWM systems, and they have organized in Joint Service Councils for activities that have scale advantages. The local councils of communities that are located near the existing

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 18 - and proposed locations of the regional solid waste management systems are the main stakeholders for the proposed project.

The following table shows how stakeholders concerns have been addressed through the design and the ESMP preparation.

Table 0.1: Planning of the SWBSWMP public consultation

ESIA Consulted Stakeholders Objectives of consultation phases

Scoping • Joint Service Council • Exploration of issues and Hebron Governorate concerns in SWBSWM • Joint Service Council • Identification of stakeholders Bethlehem City and their interests • Applied Research Institute • Assessment of potential risks Jerusalem to proposed project components Stakeholder • Communities near the • Inform the stakeholders about consultation landfill and transfer the proposed SWM project stations affected by • Explore stakeholders’ proposed project concerns and requests about components the proposed project • Stakeholders involved in • Assess stakeholders’ needs formal and informal SWM for mitigating measures systems affected by • Explore options for linking proposed project mitigation measures with components existing programs of public • Public and voluntary sector and voluntary sector organizations with relevant organizations expertise on mitigation measures Public • Public, private and • Inform interested parties participation voluntary sector about the proposed project organizations in southern • Create opportunity for West Bank interested in interested parties to propose SWM policies, strategies adjustments or alternatives and projects for the proposed project

Interest groups, currently involved in the formal and informal SWM, have been identified as another main stakeholder. The refuse workers in the formal SWM systems are not organized in an interest organization and therefore need to be consulted through the SWM Departments of the Local Authorities. Few private sector organizations are involved in the formal solid waste systems (management contract and disposal of hazardous waste). However, private persons play an important role in informal solid waste management systems as pickers and traders of recyclable waste. These private sector groups operate on an individual basis, are organized along

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 19 - trading and family clan structures. They have to be contacted on an individual basis because they have not yet formed any kind of professional association.

Civil society organizations, like the Union of Palestinian Workers and Union of Palestinian Farmers are still relatively young organizations in the southern West Bank, and currently believe they have more urgent concerns than SWM projects. Community based organizations are, however, important actors in education and social activities and increasingly get interested in environmental education. Some non-governmental organizations have developed expertise in applied research and public awareness campaigns on environment and natural resources management. These organizations have developed a keen interest in SWM issues.

The World Bank Supervision Mission conducted meetings with national and regional SWBSWMP stakeholders that created an opportunity for the Consultant team to explore the social and environmental concern. On 16 and 17 July 2008 the MDLF organized for the World Bank Supervision mission meetings with national stakeholders and the regional Project Proponent. These meetings provided an excellent opportunity for the Consultant team responsible for the stakeholder consultations, to inform the public sector stakeholders about the proposed plan, to hear their comments and concerns, and to arrange the public consultations at local and regional level.

Semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions have been used as methodology for the stakeholder consultations. The SWBSWMP consultation plan contained consultations with the leaders of communities and interest groups that are directly affected by the proposed project. The consultations with leaders of communities near the proposed and existing locations of the waste disposal sites and informal leaders of refuse workers and waste pickers and waste traders were implemented as planned. Some modifications were made to the plan because some consultations created the need for additional information that had to be addressed. The Consultants prepared checklists for these dialogues, which were conducted as semi- structured interviews when there were one or two respondents and as focus group discussion when there were more.

A scoping and a consultation meeting were conducted for the leaders of the al-Menya and Wadi Samina communities, where respectively the regional landfill site and the transfer station are proposed. These communities needed extra attention since they are directly affected and their support is essential for a successful SWBSWMP.

The Consultation Team had to adjust the consultation plan after the meetings with the waste-pickers and the leaders of two communities near the existing Yatta landfill. Informal leaders of waste-pickers from Yatta city and formal leaders of communities near the Yatta landfill site wanted to discuss negative environmental and social impacts of the site. The site was managed very poorly until 2006 and some of the complaints needed to be crosschecked with responsible government authorities and with field data. Therefore the Consultant Team decided to interview a medical expert in Yatta district and a social expert of the Municipal Social Department. In addition, the Consultant decided to conduct a census of all waste-pickers working on an average summer day at the landfill site, and to prepare profiles of four waste-pickers households from Yatta city and four households from El Deirat village. The additional

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 20 - data was required to deal with conflicting information about number of waste-pickers, health conditions and the socio-economic backgrounds of the households of waste- picker families that have children and adults picking waste at the landfill site.

The MDLF and the Joint Service Councils of Bethlehem and Hebron took responsibility for conducting the public hearings in Hebron Governorate (3rd of August 2008) and in Bethlehem Governorate (4th of August 2008). The Consultant prepared an agenda proposal and the meetings were advertised in regional newspapers. Presentations about the proposed plan and environmental and social mitigation measures were presented . The Joint Service Council representatives chaired the meetings and the Consultants recorded the questions and comments.

Two additional meetings were conducted specifically to address concerns around the transfer station site. These took place on 2nd and 3rd March 2009. Present at both were the social specialist and the environmental engineer from the JSC-H&B and representatives of the businesses and residents adjacent to the site comprising members of 8 families

Disclosure

All documents produced as part of the ESIA will be fully disclosed to the public. The ESIA, Executive Summary ESIA, and the Abbreviated Resettlement Action Plans (in English and Arabic), have been disclosed in draft form (December 2008) and as a draft final version (February 2009) at the World Bank InfoShop, and on the websites of the Hebron and Bethlehem Municipalities for public information and consultation. The final versions will be made available through the same outlets.

Outcome of Stakeholder Consultations

Introduction

In this section summaries are presented of the main issues and concerns discussed during the consultation meetings. Minutes of all meetings were kept and are available for inspection.

Concerns of the stakeholders at national level

The MoLG expressed concerns about the protection of the ground water resources. The water resources are scarce in the proposed area and the soil structure and profile of the preferred site seem to be unsuitable for a regional landfill site.

The MoPIC requested that the direct and indirect impacts at the preferred sites for infrastructure development be assessed. The transportation strategies require an assessment of transport intensification for the various routes leading to and from proposed sites. Mitigation measures are expected for negative impacts for the infrastructure and communities living along the main waste transportation routes through investments in the main infrastructure and through transport restrictions on minor routes.

EQA raised a concern about the weighting factor used in the site selection report. A high weight was given to the economic and financial criteria while they believed that

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 21 - a higher weight should have been given to environmental criteria. In addition, they requested clearer information about the types of waste that will be accepted and the amount of waste that can be separated for reuse. Their concern is that hazardous waste should not be disposed of in a landfill designed for domestic wastes. Although SWBSWMP is basically a project for municipal waste, it requires a strategy for dealing with hazardous waste. Finally EQA considers public awareness raising and waste separation piloting a component of the project proposal and therefore expected that planning for this component would be included in the feasibility report.

Concerns of the stakeholders at regional level

Public sector The leaders of local government authorities are concerned about the tariff setting and fee collection for the improved SWM system. This concern is most prominent among the municipalities in southern Hebron, which are closest to the old and will be farthest from the new landfill site. A system of cross-subsidies was advocated for the tariff setting policy. Regional stakeholders also proposed that piloting of at-source separation would form a component of SWBSWMP. They consider recycling to be their mandate and think that they can generate additional income by investing and managing those activities. The public sector representatives do not yet consider public awareness on sustainable development and SWM as a responsibility of the public sector.

Private sector The traders of recyclable solid waste have an individual view on changes in the regional SWM system. Although the informal system has made progress in at-source separation, the formal and informal systems need to collaborate in future to improve the performance. Individual traders are interested to manage the waste separation at the transfer stations and the regional landfill site, and work with their equipment (tractor with hoe and containers) at the new locations. Individual traders are also interested to become involved in the pilot project for at-source separation and to manage the collection of the separated recyclable materials. The traders are willing to invest in these initiatives but they consider that the public sector should take the leading role.

Voluntary sector The voluntary sector representatives thought that the improved infrastructure would require an improved management system. They recommended the prevention of conflicts of interest that might arise due to the public sector being provider of the service and supervisor of the public interest in these services. They recommended that the public sector look opportunities to use the expertise of the private and voluntary sectors through partnerships and that they should involve representatives of the private and voluntary sectors in the governance structure or advisory committees. The voluntary sector considers it the task of the public sector to raise public awareness on sustainable development and SWM. They therefore recommended that public participation in the SWBSWM Project should be a serious consultation rather than a public information process. With regard to waste pickers, they proposed that those poor households that lose income should be admitted to the social safety net program or involved in income generation schemes.

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 22 - Concerns of the stakeholders at local level

Communities near proposed landfill site and transfer station The leaders of communities living near to the proposed landfill site and the proposed transfer station gave their conditional support to the project components. They want their communities to benefit from improved infrastructure and employment opportunities. Their conditions concern the management of the facilities in accordance with international environmental and social standards so that they will be protected from negative impacts in the short, medium and long term. They therefore requested management plans that meet international standards and transparent and fair complaint management procedures. The community leaders also expressed a warning: if the SWM facilities are not properly managed and cause damage to the neighboring communities, these might react by blocking the operations.

Refuse workers of the local authorities The project proposals do not create major changes for the staff of the municipal SWM services. The major change will be that less time will be required for transportation and therefore more time is available for waste collection. However, the SWM services staff recommended an improvement of at source separation of all waste, and in particular of hazardous, slaughter, glass and construction waste. They recommend that producers of medical, slaughter and construction waste deliver it themselves at the regional landfill site, so that the refuse workers are better protected from accidents and health risks. They predicted that the landfill site supervisors will face problems in collaborating with waste-pickers, who arrange waste separation informally at the site.

Waste-pickers at the sites that will be closed The waste-pickers feel that the changes in the SWM system will put their present source of income at risk. They would like to be employed by private companies that invest in waste separation. They are currently organized along kinship and trader networks and have more confidence in organizing themselves in family rather than cooperative enterprises. The waste-pickers recommended a smaller transfer station located and managed by the municipalities of southern Hebron and a larger transfer station located in the north Hebron city that processes the waste of Hebron city and the municipalities of western Hebron. They expect that Yatta municipality will care better for their interests than Hebron Municipality. They expect the public sector to invest in equipment (refuse container and sorting belt) for safe manual waste separation. While traders would like to bring their private equipment to the transfer station, the waste-pickers asked for on-site sorting and storage facilities that they can rent. The voluntary sector organizations and the informal waste-picker leaders argue that the management concept for waste sorting must be clear and the arrangements under which waste-pickers work must be fair. In their opinion the public sector should focus on employment creation for experienced waste separators rather than struggling for a share of the waste separation revenues. A sharing arrangement of 50-50, as is used by the management of other landfill sites, was considered unfair to self- employed waste pickers

Communities near the sites that will be closed The leaders of the communities near the Yatta landfill site are happy that the landfill site will be closed since the benefits are smaller than the costs for the communities. Until two years ago the site was managed poorly and that caused a lot of harm for the

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 23 - surrounding communities in terms of human and animal health. The community leaders expect that the landfill site will be closed and rehabilitated in accordance with international standards. They also suggested that an independent national NGO would be involved in the monitoring of land and water resources near the closed land because they feared a conflict of interests if a public sector organization was made responsible for the monitoring.

Concerns of the stakeholders around the Transfer Station Site

At a first meeting the main concerns of the people could be summarized as follows: • The bad odor which might be as a result of the transfer station • The spreading of waste by wind from the transfer station • The leachate problem • Noise and traffic problems

The consultees were given an opportunity to consider the responses of the specialists and to discuss with other stakeholders who had not been able to attend. In a subsequent meeting, on the next day, they expressed the following additional opinions.

• It should be encouraged that persons who have shops for light industry or plastic recycling activities should set up just beside the Transfer Station so that the economy of the area may progress.

• All the attendees thought that the overall cleanness of the area would increase since an important activity in solid waste management would be present.

• The people thought that this will might help in solving the problem of tannery factories which badly affect the area.

• They also thought that it will create some new job opportunities for local guards or operators or drivers.

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 24 - ENVIRONMENTAL and Social BASELINE DATA

Introduction

Data and Information Presented

This Section presents data on baseline environmental and social conditions with respect to the selected project sites. The baseline data describe the existing situation in the project area that could be influenced by the establishment of sanitary landfill, the transfer station, and the associated roads, accesses and infrastructure.

The data are presented and discussed under the following headings.

• General Environmental Conditions in the Study Area • Geology and Soils • Hydrogeology and Hydrology • Ecology • Socio-Cultural Factors

Sources of Information

Information on baseline environmental conditions has been derived from a variety of sources including: • Environmental Analysis of the Zaharat Finjan landfill site [Error! Reference source not found.] and [Error! Reference source not found.] • Reports on the Hebron/Yatta landfill site, [Error! Reference source not found.] and [Error! Reference source not found.] • SWBSWMP Final Site Selection Report, [Error! Reference source not found.] • SWBSWMP; Feasibility & ESIA Draft Baseline Data Inventory Report [Error! Reference source not found.] • SWBSWMP Feasibility Report [Error! Reference source not found.] • SWBSWMP; Feasibility & ESIA Basic Design for Transfer Stations and Sanitary Landfill, [Error! Reference source not found.] • Primary field surveys and site investigations; • Secondary published data, maps and reports; and • Consultations and interviews with relevant agencies and stakeholders.

General Environmental Conditions in the Study Area

General Characteristics

The Landfill Site The proposed landfill is located on approximately 25 ha of undeveloped land which is located nearly 2-3 km south – south east of al-Menya Village in Bethlehem Governorate (between 114300 north and 113600 south and 171950 west and 172600 east referenced to Palestinian grid system). Within the site, the planned landfill area will be 20.5 ha with approximate dimensions of 750 m by 370 m. The site is bordered by a gravel ranch road on the north and undeveloped lands from west, east and south.

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 25 -

The site can be accessed from Hebron along road # 60, onto road 3157 and then via regional roads to the site. The distance from Hebron by this route is around 29 km. Another possible route starts from the center of Hebron then to Halhoul then through Siir Junction to al-Menya town before reaching the site itself. This route length is around 23 km. The route from Bethlehem is easier, with a distance of less than 20 km. See Figure 6.1 below.

The area is characterized in being slightly hilly with an average topographic slope ranges between 3o – 7o from west to east. No apparent saddles, prominent hills, deep wadis or steep cliffs of any sort were observed in the vicinity. The site itself is mostly flat and slopes gradually from north to south east, changing in surface elevation from approximately 690 m to 730 m above mean sea level (see Figure 6.2). It is not visible from the north and western areas because it is bounded by hills.

Figure 0.1 Location map and the different routes to the proposed landfill

The Transfer Station The Transfer Station will be located in the southern industrial district of Hebron, around 25 km from the landfill site. The facility will use around 0.4 ha of a 1.8 ha plot of land that is owned by Hebron municipality. Thus there is plenty of room for expansion if need be. Access to the site is from road # 60 along a 1.3 km local road (see

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 26 -

Figure 0.8 Aerial View of Proposed Transfer Station Site

Figure 0.8). The area is mountainous and part of the plot, to the west, consists of steeply sloping hillside, but the proposed facility area has been reclaimed by Hebron municipality. It was leveled and filled then paved and divided into two levels about five meters apart in height.

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 27 - Figure 0.2 The Main Landfill Area

Climate

Between December and March the average daily temperature in the region is 13.4°C with a minimum temperature of 7.8°C and a maximum of 19°C. The average daily temperature from June to August is 33.6°C with an average minimum of 19.3°C.

Rainfall in the West Bank is very variable with average ranges from 100-700mm. Because of the variability the precise rainfall at the proposed landfill site is not known since the nearest meteorological station is at Hebron (see Figure 8). However, it is known that rainfall decreases from west to east and from north to south and that on the eastern slopes, nearest the proposed site, the average is 100-300. Consultations with local inhabitants suggest that rainfall in the vicinity of the site is at the low end of this range. Further evidence was obtained from visual inspection of the site which revealed areas of small gravel and sandy substrate but no evidence of channeling which would be caused if heavy rain and flash flooding were to occur. Nevertheless, an average rainfall of 300 mm per year has been assumed (the high end of the local range) to provide a large safety margin in calculations (of drainage requirements, leachate collection and treatment) that require rainfall data.

The average evaporation rate in the south of the proposed landfill site is 55.1 mm/month between December and February. Between June and August evaporation rates rise to an average of 277.3 mm/month. Annual evaporation rates in this part of the West Bank are up to 1000 mm per year, and exceed that of rainfall. This means that only during periods of high rainfall and lower evaporation, as may occur during some winter months is there a potential for water to infiltrate the soil layers.

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 28 - The estimated average potential water deficit at the site of the landfill is approximately 350 mm to 400 mm per year. There have been no recorded flood events in the landfill site area during the last 100 years.

The climate around the proposed site of the transfer station is better known this can be assumed to be the same as for Hebron city. Here the rainy season is from December and April with an average daily temperature of around 14ºC. The dry season extends from May to November with an average daily temperature of 28ºC reaching a maximum of 35ºC in July and August. Annual rainfall is around 400 mm.

The prevailing wind over the Hebron District comes from the south-west and north- west, being more northerly and stronger in the summer months. Mean wind speeds are lowest in October (5.4 km/hr and 7.7 km/hr, respectively) and strongest in July (9.7 km/hr and 12.4 km/hr, respectively). The ‘Khamaseen’ winds from the Arabian Desert Area may occur during the period from April to June and these characteristically cause a rise in temperature and a decrease in humidity. Humidity ranges from approximately 39 % during the ‘Khamaseen’ period to an average of around 84 % in winter.

Figure 0.3: Climatic data (rainfall and cloudiness) Source: Atlas of Palestine, 2001

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 29 -

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 30 -

Climate

Mean Annual Temperature and Solar Radiation

Main City Main City West Bank and Gaza West Bank and Gaza Beisan Beisan Boundary Boundary Mean Annual Teprerature Jenin Solar Radiation Incident on Jenin oC Horizontal Surface Annual Mean. 24 - 25 Kg-calories/cm2 per year 23 - 24 Tulkarm Tulkarm > 201 22 - 23 195 - 201 21 - 22 189 - 195 20 - 21 Qalqiliya Nablus Qalqiliya Nablus 182 - 189 19 - 20 < 182 18 - 19 Jordan River Jordan River 17 - 18 Tel Aviv 10 0 10 km Tel Aviv 16 - 17 Yafa Yafa 15 - 16 10 0 10 km Al Lid a Al Lid Se a Ar Ramlah Ar Ramlah Ramallah Ramallah Se Ariha Ariha n (Jericho) (Jericho) ea n Al Quds Al Quds ea (Jerusalem) an (Jerusalem) an Bethlehem rr Bethlehem Sea Site 12 Sea rr Site 12 e it e ISRAEL d ISRAEL it e d Jabalya M Jabalya Al Khalil Dead Al Khalil Dead e Gaza Gaza M (Hebron) (Hebron)

Deir al Balah Deir al Balah

Khan Yunis Khan Yunis

Rafah Rafah

Mean Avarage Annual Humidity and Meteorological Stations

Main City Location of Meteorological Stations, West Bank and Gaza Agricultural Weather Stations and Beisan Beisan Boundary Rain-gauges in the West Bank. Mean Avarage Annual Jenin Meteorological Station Jenin Humidity % Agricultural Weather Station 70 - 75 Rainfall Gauge 65 - 70 Tulkarm Main City Tulkarm 60 - 65 West Bank and 55 - 60 Gaza Boundary Qalqiliya Nablus Qalqiliya Nablus 50 - 55 10 0 10 km 45 - 50 Jordan River Jordan River 40 - 45 Tel Aviv Tel Aviv a 10 0 10 km Yafa Se Yafa

Al Lid an Al Lid Ar Ramlah Ar Ramlah ne Ramallah Ramallah Ariha Ariha (Jericho) ra (Jericho) Al Quds er Al Quds (Jerusalem) it (Jerusalem) Bethlehem d Bethlehem Sea e Sea Site 12 M ISRAEL ISRAEL Site 12 Jabalya Jabalya Al Khalil Dead Al Khalil Dead Gaza Gaza (Hebron) (Hebron)

Deir al Balah Deir al Balah

Khan Yunis Khan Yunis

Rafah Rafah

Ambient Environmental Conditions in the Study Area

Air Quality

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 31 - There are no available monitoring data on air quality but an adequate picture of the situation at affected sites can be obtained from considering surrounding land uses and potential sources of air pollution.

The proposed landfill site is far from any significant sources of air pollution. The nearest major road (Highway # 6) is at least 3 km away and there is no nearby industry. The ‘Khamaseen’ winds may bring dust occasionally but otherwise the air quality is expected to be constantly good.

The proposed transfer station site is within an industrial zone. The adjacent industries (tanneries, plastics, carpentry) have some potential for pollution, but none was observed on site visits. A moderately trafficked local road passes beside the site. Air quality is expected to be generally good, characteristic of a light industrial zone.

At the main existing site, Yatta dump site, there have often been plumes of dense smoke from burning waste. These can be seen by whole communities and have been the subject of many complaints. Some fires are caused deliberately by waste pickers as a form of informal recycling, but fires can generate spontaneously in the conditions found in improperly managed waste dumps. Odors may also be a problem. It is to be expected therefore that air quality at Yatta and at other dump sites is often poor.

Noise Again because of its rural nature, the noise levels at the proposed landfill site are expected to be low. Similarly, there being no particularly noisy activities at the transfer station site or the existing dump sites, the noise profiles are expected to be typical for light industrial and residential areas respectively.

Roads and Traffic The proposed landfill site is located about 3 kilometers south east of al- Menya village and north east of Kisen village. An agricultural road around 3.5 km long and 2 km local unpaved road site passing through al-Menya village form the main accesses to the site (see Figure 6.4) . At the moment only local domestic, farm and small commercial vehicles use these roads. Traffic frequency is very low.

The transfer station site is located beside the main road of the South Hebron industrial zone. The road is divided into two lanes with a median width of 8.0 m for vehicle movement on each side. Traffic on the road was counted for two hours 10:30-12:30 on 3/3/2009 and found to be 347 passenger cars, 19 medium trucks and 31 large trucks as an average per each direction of the road. This was well within the capacity of the road (estimated at 4,000 vehicles per day). Vehicles access the industrial zone road from the Road # 60, the main intercity highway, which is about 400 m distant from the site.

Visual Amenity The proposed landfill site is within a rural landscape. The site itself is of limited landscape value but forms part of an open, undeveloped area surrounded by hills that separate it from the Dead Sea basin. The site area is visible from the surrounding hilltops and one of these is occupied by residential areas belonging to Kisan village.

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 32 - The transfer station side is within a fully developed area. It is overlooked by hills that have some housing and commercial property on them.

The existing waste sites are in a variety of locations. The appearance of all of them is marred by waste scattered over the sites, litter and wind-blown detritus, particularly plastics, and often by smoke from numerous fires.

Land Use around the Landfill Site The total population in the area around the proposed landfill site is estimated at 12,000-14,000 people. mostly in three villages: al-Menya (1,200 people), Kisan (500 people) and Tqoue (9,000 people). The site is at 1,000 m east of al-Menya, 1,200 m south of Kisan, and 2,500 m south east of Tqoue’.

The site itself is uncultivated scrubland, used for occasional grazing. It is abutted by sparsely vegetated rocky land with some rain fed olives on two side, to the south east and north east, and to the north west is unused land. There are no residences within a kilometer of the site, although a farmer recently moved with his about 80 sheep to a farmhouse situated about 1,000 m west of the proposed location. There are also a few farmhouses that are situated in olive gardens along the road from al-Menya village. There used to be a few households of the Kisen Community in hamlets close to the proposed landfill site, but these have been resettled in the Kisen village and in El Rashadyda. There are no residential areas east of the proposed site.

Agriculture is the major activity for the al-Menya community. The farming systems are dominated by wheat production systems on the deeper clayey soils in the north- western corner, and olive and sheep production systems in the south-eastern corner of the village land. In the south-eastern corner, farmers also used to grow winter wheat, however they stopped because of low yields due to shallow soils and erratic rainfall. There are some traders in agricultural commodities (wheat and straw) and one stone quarry industry in the village. Recently some farmers have invested in drip irrigation and green houses for vegetable production. The irrigation water is purchased from an Israeli company that manages a pumping station in the Siir Wadi.

Near the proposed landfill site, there has been a previous attempt to open a quarrying enterprise to the west of the site at some 600 m and there is a current attempt from another land owner who is exploring the same thing at a distance of 1 km to the north east of the site. However, most quarrying areas belonging to Sair and Beit Fajjar and are located west (at 3 km distance) and south west.

Land Use around the Transfer Station Site The proposed transfer station site is surrounded by a factories and workshops, the closest of which are just a few meters away and include plastics manufacturers, carpentry workshops, aluminum workshops, leather manufacturers and tanneries. There are some residential buildings around 130 m distant. The surrounding land is privately owned. In addition to the industrial, commercial and residential buildings there are a few vacant lots.

The Existing Dump Sites The existence of the current dumping sites distributed over the areas of the two governorates has severe social and environmental impacts. Not less than 17 dumping

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 33 - sites are in use and scattered over the southern West Bank area. The existing main dumping area is close to Yatta and serves most of the southern West Bank’s localities. This has in the past created a severe environmental nuisance with regard to air pollution due to burning of waste, smog and gas release. In the last two years significant improvements have taken place. The waste is spread and covered on a daily basis and a weighbridge has been installed at the entrance. Nevertheless, the dumping at the site for more than 15 years without lining or proper containment of the leachates has given rise to significant threats to regional surface and groundwater bodies. Leachates are seen in the adjacent wadis. In the winter time the flood water washes out huge quantities of leachates (estimated at 14,000-20,000 m3). The soils and sediments in the wadis are polluted by leachates and this is confirmed by the dark color of the sediments.

The problem is magnified by the unsanitary situation including allowing waste- picking on the site. This has created social as well as severe environmental problems which affect the poorest people in the site neighborhood.

In summary, the main impacts of the current dumping sites are: • Air pollution due to waste burning that prevails in most of these sites • The pollution of an area ranging from 60 to 70 ha of land occupied by these sites • A lot of these sites are located upstream of the mouths of wadis and thus leachates are easily moved by gravity and transported by the wadi flow. This has polluted wadi beds for long distances and threatens the groundwater aquifers. Some springs such as al-Najadeh and al-Maleh at Kharas and Nuba (Hebron governorates) are located inside a dumping site. • Some of the sites are located in agricultural areas and negatively affect the surrounding land for up to 500 to 1000 m. The effects are threatening animal production and polluting cultivated crops and lands. Some of the crops produced in such areas are not accepted by markets so that the economic return of such lands affected. • Many sites are composed of several smaller sites extending over an area that may exceed 600 m, spoiling a large land area with piles of dumped waste. • Many sites are located close to residential areas and disturb the social and environmental quality of people’s life. • The sites are open and this allows contact of people and animals with waste. Waste-picking especially for metals was observed in several areas. • Some of the sites receive also the wastewater coming via tankers from cesspits and this magnifies the pollution problems. • Some are very far from the centers of served areas and this costs the local authorities a lot for maintenance because the trucks have to traverse a dirt road with high roughness in the road surface. • Some of these sites are not managed well, leaving most of the waste uncovered. This allows insects breeding and threatens communities’ health and allows proliferation of offensive odors. • Some of these sites cause problems between different landowners and even between local councils (authorities). Because some communities have the dumping site close or inside the neighboring communities areas

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 34 - • The land use national plan has been interrupted by the existence of such sites. Areas that are intended for housing are rendered unsuitable due to existence of dumping sites. • Some of them affect or disturb natural wildlife habitats • Some sites allows industrial enterprises to send hazardous waste • Many animals has been killed due to eating polluted crops or plastic products near or inside these sites • The price of the land close to those areas is getting lower because the areas look less attractive for any land use. • Neighboring land owners report that they have abandoned their lands since the establishment of such dumping sites. • The ephemeral wadis located close to those dumping sites are with polluted surface water. So that watershed degradation in such areas is taking place.

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 35 - Figure 0.4 Road Layout around the Proposed Landfill and Transfer Station Sites

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 36 - Geology and Soils

Site Investigation

Site specific investigations of the geological and geotechnical characteristics of the deposits on the exact location of the proposed landfill site have been undertaken and included the following:

• the excavation of three trial pits; • the drilling of three boreholes to a maximum of 15 m; • geological and geotechnical logging and mapping; • laboratory geotechnical testing, and analysis and interpretation.

Southern West Bank Solid Waste Management Project Conceptual design drawings for the proposed Landfill

LEGEND Description Symbol

contour

ring road

cell border

fence

grid

access road

soil pit s (A,B,C)or boreholes (BH1,2,3)

LF Site Name: al-Meniah’ (site # 12)

Scale: 1: 3000

Sheet Name: Soil pits and boreholes locations

Sheet Date:9 July 2008

Regional Bedrock Stratigraphy and Lithology

Geological mapping for the West Bank was first published by Rofe and Raffety (1965) and was revised by the Geological Survey of Israel (published 1991). Formations throughout the West Bank consist largely of carbonates, chert, chalk, sandstones, and evaporites that range from late Jurassic to Recent in age.

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 37 - In general, the outcropping rocks of the southern area of West Bank belong to the Cretaceous – Tertiary period. The geological columnar section encountered at the proposed site area, from the youngest to the oldest was as follows. • Jerusalem Formation (Turonian): Due to erosion of the youngest formations (eg. Abu Dies Formation), Jerusalem Formation rocks are exposed in the proposed site area. This formation is composed of dark grey –brown weathered massive limestone, locally cliff forming, finely grained lithographic pink and buff in the lower part, cream re-crystallized dolomitic and occasionally silicified in the upper part. The thickness of the Jerusalem formation ranges from 70 to130 m.

• Bethlehem Formation (Upper Cenomanian): Rocks of this formation consists mainly of cream-grey bedded chalky limestone; frequently completely recrystalized to cream or pink porcellaneous limestone, with softer marly chalky limestones and marls. The thickness of the Bethlehem formation ranges from 100 to 150 m.

• Hebron Formation (Upper Cenomanian): Hebron Formation is composed of grey weathered dolomitic limestones, and dolomite. The rock is hard, massive, and poorly bedded. It shows sugary texture, a high secondary porosity and well developed karsts in many parts of the formation. The thickness of the Hebron formation ranges between 160 to 250 meters.

• Yatta Formation (Lower Cenomanian): This formation lies beneath the Hebron formation. The Yatta formation consists of brown-grey weathered marls and chalky limestone, with some partly dolomitised, tough, thin bedded, white crystalline shelly limestone. The thickness of the Yatta formation ranges from 80 to 108 meters.

• The Upper Beit Kahil Formation (Lower Cenomanian): Upper Beit Kahil Formation lithologically differs from top to bottom. Upper part is composed from hard limestone, somewhat dolomitic, showing karst weathering. Middle part is formed from thick bedded marly limestone. While the base of the formation is mainly composed from marly limestone, and marl. The thickness of the Upper Beit Kahil Formation rocks ranges from 180 to 260 meters.

• The Lower Beit Kahil Formation (Albian-Lower Cenomanian): The upper part of this formation is mainly composed of cream-grey weathered, thick bedded fine grained dolomitic limestone, karstic sometimes with chert. Middle part of the formation composed of thick and thin bedded limestone and marly limestone sometimes with shale. While the lower part is formed from massive, grey- weathered, thick bedded limestone. The thickness of the Lower Beit Kahil formation ranges from 215 to 260 meters.

Structural Geology The Hebron anticline forms the main structural feature in the area. This anticline extends from Jerusalem in the north to Beer Al Sabe'e in the south. This structure has a northeast

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 38 - trend in the southern part and north-northeast to north-south in the northern part. Related to this main structure, other secondary folded structures can be noticed in the area such as; Sureif monocline, Bani Naim monocline, Yatta syncline, and Beit Fajar syncline.

In addition to these major folded structures, other minor structures of faulting, and jointing, can be observed in the area. The fault pattern shows two indistinct sets of fault trend; north-south and east-west. Joints distributed in the area mainly originate as a result of dolomitisation, and competency variation of individual bed within a rock formation. These joints are developed in dolomitic limestone, and crystalline limestone, while are not well defined in the chalks and marls. Karst pavements usually well developed on hilltops, due to the solution of calcium carbonate by water that in turn increase the pore space and permeability.

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 39 - Figure 0.5 Geological Map of the Southern Part of the West Bank

Proposed Site No. 12

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 40 - Geology and Stratigraphy of the Project Site

The majority of the site comprises tills and outwash gravels and clay deposits from the surrounding mountains and hills. There is a large area along the eastern margin of the site where alluvial deposits associated with the mountains are present . Test pits excavated on-site and boreholes revealed alluvial deposits. Most pits comprised mainly silty and sandy material with little to some gravel. The outcropping lithology consists mainly of hard limestone strata, hard, white, banded (<0.5- max.1.5m band), massive and fractured, Figure 13 a & b shows the fracture development vertically and horizontally. The general geological setting of the site and around suggests that these strata may be economically feasible to quarry for stone and marble.

(a) (b) Figure 0.6: Developed fractures at the outcropping limestone

Field observations and in situ site investigations show that the outcropping limestone formation continues its vertical extension within the geological profile to a depth of at least 10m. Nevertheless changes in hardness, moisture content, permeability and/or porosity are expected due to the probable occurrence of other rock type/s (e.g. cherts, flints, marls, marlstones, dolomites) within the limestone formation.

The whole rock succession dips east - southeast (approx. 5o). Slight undulations of the whole succession towards the south (in the southern areas of the site) or north (in the northern areas) ranging between 1o and 2o are common to observe.

The structure of the whole rock succession forms the eastern flank of the regional anticline, no faults or other folding structures were observed in the locality. The existence of a natural cave and the development of surface dissolution cavities within the outcropping limestone formation indicate karst activities, so the existence of other subsurface caves or caverns is likely. This was confirmed by the site investigation (Borehole #1: E172792 / N 113929). A cavity was hit at depth of 5 m below the surface and continued for 5 meters. The size of such cavities remains unknown.

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 41 - Figure 0.7: Surface dissolution cavities

Seismic Activities

The Geophysical Institute of Israel estimates that, in the general area of the project, the return frequency of seismic events of Magnitude 5.0 is once per hundred years and Magnitude 6.0 once per thousand years. It is estimated that the maximum seismic event associated with this Branch Fault is Magnitude 6.5 which would result in a maximum ground displacement of < 1 m and, probably, of less than 0.5 m. Experts estimated that land 15 m from the individual fault would not be directly affected by any displacement along the fault - in all probability land as close as 1 m from the fault plane would also be unaffected.

Superficial Materials and Top Soil

The majority of the site is mantled by Terra-Rosa soil, which is characterized by a reddish to dark brown color and high elasticity and plasticity limits. These soils occupy most of the middle part of the plot especially the lowlands and wadi banks. They show exceptional thickness as test pit excavations carried out up to approximately 5m deep revealed only Terra-Rosa soils.

On the surface and coming nearer to the hilly areas, these soils show a higher content of limestone - fragments of gravel and boulder size. The Terra-Rosa cover starts to wedge out as we approach the hilly areas. Calcareous soil cover, which is hardly to delineate within the site vicinity as it is very thin and formed mainly of a mixture of cobbled limestone and chert fragments were encountered. These are the weathering by-products of the prevailing calcareous rocks that totally cover the whole region. This soil occurs mainly as pile patches and/or thin sheets scattered randomly within the site vicinity. The color of this soil is earthy white. The Western part of the site has a sparse rocky appearance and, to the west, becomes a completely rocky area.

The land at the site and extending eastward is of decreasing use and value. The site itself contains significant quantities of clay (estimated at 15,000-20,000 m3) which could be used for lining for the cells and for bottom and top cover.

Hydrogeology and Hydrology

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 42 - Hydrogeology of Southern West Bank

The hydrogeology of the project area has been developed from a site-specific hydraulic assessment and from published and unpublished data derived from the following sources: • Palestinian Water Authority; • Palestinian Hydrology Group; • Water and Soil Environmental Research Unit, Bethlehem University; • Geological Survey of Israel; • Israeli Hydrology Centre; and • Israeli Department of Environmental Affairs for the West Bank.

In general, water bearing formations (aquifers) in the West Bank are mainly composed of limestone and dolomite. Outcropping rocks (recharge area) of the water bearing formations are mainly characterized by prominent craggy outcrops and well jointed, honeycombed, and karstified pavements features. It is likely that the weathering of long bedding planes and major joints has resolved into a series of interconnecting fissures and then to cavern systems that continue underground. These features increase the secondary permeability of the rock formations that in turn increase the storage capacity and rate of groundwater flow. Thus, outcropping areas of these water bearing formations are considered sensitive groundwater recharge areas.

Main aquifers and aquicludes in the area are:

• The Turonian-Upper Cenomanian aquifer system: This aquifer system has a thickness of about 400 meters in some places, while it consists of three water- bearing formations of Jerusalem, Bethlehem, and Hebron. Outcropping areas of these water bearing formations form the recharge area of the aquifer system. A groundwater divide on the crest of the mountainous area separates groundwater draining eastwards to the Eastern Slopes and to the Dead sea, and that draining westwards to the coastal plain. The groundwater level of this aquifer system is between 300 to 350 meters above sea level. The system feeds several wells and springs in the area and so the recharge areas are considered sensitive.

• Yatta Formation: As a result of its lithological composition (high marl content), the Yatta formation is considered to be an aquiclude in the area separating the upper aquifer system from the lower. Hydrogeologically, outcropping areas of this formation are considered to be non-sensitive.

• The Lower Cenomanian aquifer system: This aquifer system comprises of the upper Beit Kahil, and the lower Beit Kahil formations. Thickness of aquifer system reaches about 450 meters. Outcrops of the water bearing formations mostly of limestone and dolomite form a recharge area of the aquifer system. Hydrogeologically, outcropping areas of this aquifer system are considered sensitive groundwater recharge areas. The groundwater level of this system is situated between 350 to 400 meters above sea level.

Several wells drilled in the area are fed from this aquifer system. Wells of this aquifer are mostly characterized by good discharge.

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 43 -

Groundwater in the vicinity of the site, therefore, is sourced from the Upper and Lower Cenomanian aquifers. However, the Palestinian Water Authority, which is involved in the supply of water and regulation of water related issues, confirmed that the site area is not a critical groundwater recharge or supply area. This is because of the low precipitation and high evapotranspiration in the area, and the considerable depth to potable groundwater (200 – 300 m below the surface). It can be concluded

Legend: Jerusalem

Phase 1 Well Phase 2 Well World Bank Reservoir Booster Station Dohasha IZZ1 Bethlehem Phase 1 Pipeline Reservoir Phase 2 Pipeline JWC4 World Bank USAID Hundaza 120 AFD City PWA3 IZZ2 Westbank Border

PWA11 Kharas Reservoir

PWA1 O site 12

110 Halhoul Reservoir D 25000m3 EH2 H Hebron Ã6 Reservoir G D BN3 H Hebron BN2 ' BS2 BS1 Dura Bani Naim 100 Reservoir Reservoir

East Yatta Reservoir Central Yatta Adh Dahirya Reservoir

90

140 150 160 170 180 therefore that this groundwater is not vulnerable to contamination from the proposed landfill site due to low rainfall and limited infiltration rates.

Groundwater Abstraction and Groundwater Quality

Groundwater abstraction for both domestic and agricultural use is undertaken throughout the Hebron District. Figure 6.8 records domestic water abstractions in the southern West Bank. There are no agricultural wells in the area. The Figure shows three domestic wells within a 5 km radius, to the north-west and south-west, of the proposed landfill site. The proposed site is mostly located within a surface watershed that drains into a wadi system that does not belong to the same catchment or the flow direction of any of these wells. As far as is known, the existing wells in the area are located on wadi Sair hydraulic gradient line, which is not connected with the site's wadi. However, according to available maps on groundwater level, the site's groundwater is at a depth exceeding 200 m below surface.

Figure 0.8: Domestic water abstraction wells in the southern West Bank

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 44 -

Groundwater Quality

A study issued by the Millennium Engineering Group (1999) provides general background information on the quality of groundwater abstracted from the Upper and Lower Aquifers (Table 6.1).

Table 0.1 Aquifer Water Quality

Parameter Concentration (Parts per million)

Upper Aquifer Lower Aquifer Chloride (Cl) 25 - 100 25 - 100 Nitrate (NO3) 20 - 45 0 - 20 Sulphate (SO4) 0 - 25 0 - 25 Chloride/Sodium (Cl/Na) Ratio 1.5 - 2.5 Calcium/Magnesium (Ca/Mg) 2:4 Ratio

Hydrology

Catchment Details

According to figure 6.9, the site follows the catchment of Jerusalem Desert .

Figure 0.9: Surface Catchment Areas and Drainage Systems Source: Atlas of Palestine, 2001

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 45 -

Surface Catchment Areas and Drainage Systems

Main City Safad Permanent Wadi ‘ Aka Intermittent Wadi Catchment Boundary West Bank and Gaza Boundary L. Tabariyya Haifa SYRIA Number Name 1 Tabariyya Auja/Fasayil 2 Lower Jordan 3 Far’ a 4 Wadi El Qilt 5 Jenin An Nasirah 6 Northern Jordan 7 Nablus 5 8 Barta’ a 9 Jerusalem 10 Jerusalem Desert 11 Auja Tamaseeh

8 Beisan

Jenin 2

7 Tulkarm 3 6

Nablus Qalqiliya

Tel Aviv Jordan River 11 Yafa JORDAN

1 Al Lid Ar Ramlah Ariha Ramallah (Jericho)

4

Al Quds 9 (Jerusalem)

Bethlehem ‘ Asqalan ISRAEL Dead Sea Site 12

Jabalya Al Khalil Gaza (Hebron)

10 Deir al Balah

Khan Yunis

Rafah Bi’ r As Sabi’

EGYPT SINAI

10 0 10 km

Surface Water Resources

There is no surface water flow in the vicinity of the proposed landfill site. There are two small wadis that begin, morphologically, within the vicinity of the plot, and drain in a slight meandering pattern towards the east. There is potential for occasional storm

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 46 -

water flows during the winter/wet season although no data are available to quantify these. As noted above (Section 6.2.2), anecdotal and physical evidence suggests that flood events or large storm water flows are extremely rare.

Ecology

Sources of Information

A primary source of information on the general project area was the ecological literature search completed by ERM (references # 8 -11). The proposed landfill site was also checked against different thematic maps (rainfall, evaporation, cultivation, land suitability for agriculture production, soil salinity, sodium content, sensitivity to environmental pressures, and nature reserves). In addition, a site survey was carried out to identify plant species on the site. Due to the unexpectedly long delay to the rains after the summer, the survey of flora at the site may have missed some species. To supplement the review, therefore, people familiar with the region (including agricultural engineers, Bedouins and shepherds) were asked to identify the flora and fauna species in the neighborhood via a check-list.

Flora

According to Zohary (1966) and Feinbrun-Dothan (1978), more than 4,000 species are recorded in Flora Palaestina, of which approximately 2500 species are expected to exist in the Palestinian Territories (Shmida, Personal Communication). Danin (1988) stated that Palestine is one of the richest countries in the region in terms of diversified plant species, due to diversified climatic conditions.

The Hebron area encompasses two different agroclimatic zones (high lands and eastern slopes) and includes the four geographical zones prevailing in Palestine (Mediterranean, Irano-Turanian, Saharo-Arabian and Sudani Penetration). This implies a wide diversification within this district in terms of flora and fauna.

Hebron flora is dominated by Sarcopoterium Spinosum, Salsola vermiculata, Quercus Calliprinos, Acacia Raddiana Savi, Artemisia Monosperma, Rumex Rothschildianus, Atriplex Halimus, Calycotonie Villosa, Prosopis Farcta, Cistus Creticus, Suadca asphaltica, Teucrium polium, Retama raetam, and Tamarix nilotica.

The area of the proposed landfill site is classified as a transitional ecology between that of plant-rich high lands and rangeland (eastern slopes). Vegetated areas do not exceed 10-15% of the site and the site is covered mostly with Acacia Iacta, Sarcopoterium Spinosum, Thymelia hirsuta and Ballota undolata. Sarcopoterium Spinosum and the other observed species are widespread in the Palestinian Territories, especially in the marginal areas, in areas with low rainfall and in less fertile soils. In addition, further species of plants of limited numbers and distribution were recorded. These include Carlinia involcata, Artemisia Monosperma, Criticum glomorata, Salsola vermiculata, Gundelia tournefortii, Atriplex Halimus, Cistus Creticus, Teucrium polium, Retama raetam and Tamarix nilotica. In spring time some surviving species belonging to the family/genus: Thistle Luffa, chamomile, and wormwood, can be seen sparsely distributed and some other herbs and weeds.

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 47 -

The survey assessment confirmed work compiled by the Palestinian Institute for Arid Lands and Environmental Studies (PIALES) (Combating Desertification in the Palestinian Jordan Valley: An Approach towards Sustainable Development) who do not consider the area of the proposed landfill development has specific importance with respect to its ‘biodiversity’ (either flora or fauna) or ‘important rangeland’. The same PIALES study produced a list of flora defined as ‘protected national assets’. No flora present at the site is of a protected species. All of the observed flora are common throughout the region and within other Palestinian territories.

The area suffers from desertification and overgrazing, therefore the flora existence is highly limited and disturbed. Also the environmental degradation is linked to the drought conditions that are frequently encountered in this area. Uprooting of plant cover, and sowing of animal feed crops has further lessened the value of this particular site,

Fauna

Fauna in the West Bank area is very diverse in response to the considerable variation of natural habitats. Documented fauna in the region includes 67 families of birds of which 45 are local breeds, 33 families of mammals, 93 species and sub-species of reptiles, and 7 different species of amphibians.

Fauna species recorded in the region and have been witnessed by people interviewed as part of the ERM study include Red Fox (vulpes vulpes palaestina), Badger, Ichneumon, Striped Hyena, Wild Cat, Caracal Lynx, Mountain Gazalle (Gazalle gazalle), Ibex, Hare (Lepus capensis). Notable bird species include the Dove (Rock and others), Black Kite, Griffen Vulture, Owl, Chukar, Quail, Lark, Pipit, and Raven.

People reported that until around 10 years ago many species of birds, deer (gazelle), rabbits, partridge, other birds (i.e. sparrows such as hedge or sun sparrows) were all present on the site, but that these have now disappeared. Currently only some sparrows and partridge could be seen for some time of the year. Even the carnivores such as hyena and foxes have disappeared from the site area. During the site investigation fewer than 10 birds were actually seen and no animals.

It is likely that the fauna that used to be in the area have been affected by over hunting (using shooting and traps) and that some have moved inside the nature reserve to find a safer habitat while the remainder are locally extinct.

As a part of the PIALES study, a list of native fauna species defined as protected national assets was drawn up. The list includes birds, reptiles and amphibians, and 11 mammals. The proposed landfill site is not considered of being of specific value with respect to wildlife territories and corridors affecting these animals.

Socio-economic Factors

Demographics

Hebron Governorate

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 48 -

The Hebron Governorate is the most southern governorate of the West Bank. It is situated south of the Bethlehem Governorate and bounded to the west, south and east by Israel. The Hebron Governorate covers a total area of 1,060 km2 and is predominantly rural. It has only has one major city: Hebron, plus around 70 Palestinians towns and villages, 4 refugee camps and a number of Israeli settlements. It also includes Israeli-designated closed military areas, military bases and nature reserves.

In 2007 the PCBS estimated the total population of Hebron Governorate to be more than a half million persons, who live in around 90,000 households, with a population density of 520 person/km2. Of these, 34% lived in the urban areas, 58% in the rural area, and the remaining 8% in the refugee camps. The sex ratio was 104.1 with males outnumbering females. The population growth was 35.9% between 1997 and 2007, which is high compared to other governorates.

Spatially the population is concentrated in the centre of the Governorate. Hebron city has more than 120,000 inhabitants, and is surrounded by Halhul, Yatta, Dura, Al- Dhahariya, each with more than 20,000 inhabitants. The rural population is spatially concentrated in the hilly area of the central, northern and western and mid eastern parts of the Governorate. The eastern part, from the eastern hills to the shores of the Dead Sea is has been declared closed military area and Palestinians are not allowed to enter there.

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 49 -

Bethlehem Governorate Bethlehem Governorate is located 8 kilometers south of Jerusalem City, in the southern part of the West Bank. The Hebron District is to the south and southwest, the Dead Sea to the east and Israel to the west. The Governorate covers a total area of 575 square km and includes three major municipalities: Bethlehem, Beit Jela and Beit Sahour. In addition it covers 71 Palestinians towns and villages, 3 refugee camps and 20 Israeli settlements (ARIJ 2006).

In 2005 the total population of Bethlehem Governorate was estimated at around 175,000 persons, who live in 33,000 households. Of these 34% lived in the urban areas, 58% in the rural area, and 8% in the three refugee camps. The sex ratio is 103.9 with males outnumbering female inhabitants. The population grew 28.6% between 1997 and 2007.

The population density in the Bethlehem Governorate was close to 4,000 person/km2. Spatially the population is concentrated in urban area in the centre of the Governorate, where the cities of Bethlehem, Beit Jala and Beit Sahour are situated. The rural population is spatially concentrated in the hilly area of the western, southern and mid eastern parts of the Governorate. The eastern part, from the eastern hills to the shores of the Dead Sea is has been declared closed military area and Palestinians are not allowed to enter there.

Employment

Number of Workers In the West Bank 55.8% of the population is of working age (15 years or older). In Hebron Governorate 60.7% of those of working age are outside the labor market. These are housewives, students, retired persons and persons unable to work on various grounds. Of the labor force, 12.4% are unemployed. These are mainly young persons who are trying to enter the labor market. In 2006, Hebron Governorate had the highest unemployment rate in the West Bank.

The main sector of employment is the service sector, which engages about 46.6% of the active labor force. About a quarter of the active labor force is involved in construction (25.2 percent).

In Bethlehem, many persons are engaged in services related to tourism (around 14% in commerce hotels and restaurants). Tourism, construction and trade are all severely affected by the current political and economic conditions in the West Bank.

Table 0.2: Employment by Sector in the West Bank

Sector % Employed Agriculture 7.7 Mining and Industry 20.5 Construction 25.2 Commerce, hotels and restaurants 14.0 Transport and communication 5.5 Public and private services 27.1

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 50 -

(PCBS 2006 Labor force survey)

Of the workers, 51.6 percent are employees, 39.4 percent are self-employed, 5.9 percent are unpaid workers and only 3.1 percent of them are employers.

Industry Hebron is renowned for its leather and shoe industries, which counts for about 40% of the industrial production. More than 450 footwear and leather manufacturing units employ more than 8,000 workers and their total production is estimated at 60,000 pairs a day. Other important industrial activities are marble quarrying and processing, construction material production and mining. Hebron District counts for 66% of the Palestinian marble production, with its 300 quarries and 600 stone cutting companies.

In Bethlehem, factories are primarily small family businesses that are involved in the production of handicrafts for the tourist sector. Oil woodcarving, textiles and embroidery and marble carving form the major industries. However, the political and economic conditions have resulted in production below potential capacities, low profits and high investments risks in the industrial sector.

Agriculture Agriculture is an important economic sector in the Hebron Governorate. The Governorate is renowned for its fruits (grapes, plums and peach), its vegetables and its olives. The Central System for Statistics has shown that in 1996-1997 about 32,000 ha were under cultivation, of which 45 % was planted with fruits, 47% with arable crops (wheat and barley) and 4% with vegetables. Shepherds can be observed in the Hebron hills and poultry farms in the outskirts of Hebron city.

The agricultural sector in Bethlehem Governorate has been seriously affected by the Israeli settlement and security policies. The sector has good potential in Bethlehem given the short distance to Jerusalem and the favorable climatic conditions, but it is undermined by the political and economic conditions. The western part of Bethlehem receives a relative high annual rainfall, and this area is planted with arable crops (wheat and barley), fruit trees (olive, groves and grapes) and irrigated agriculture for vegetables. The total cultivated area of the Bethlehem district amounts to around 7,000 ha (2005). Livestock forms the dominant activity in the eastern part of Bethlehem, which is semi-arid. However the Eastern Segregation Zone has limited the mobility of the shepherds and increased the grazing density.

Key Social Services and Utilities

In general, municipalities are showing increasing interest for managing the services in their areas, as a result of having encountered emergency conditions and gaining experience in dealing with limited financial sources. Hebron municipality has responsibility for solid waste and water distribution from its own managed wells. Smaller municipalities such as Halhoul, Yatta, and al-Smoue’ suffer from lack of equipment and trucks for solid waste, water and wastewater services.

In Hebron, the number of governmental clinics is 42 and there are 7 hospitals. The district hospital is managed by the public sector, five smaller hospitals by the private sector, and by a charity society; the other 5 hospitals belong to the private sector. The

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 51 -

number of beds available in these hospitals was 369 in 2005, which means 0.64 beds per 1000 inhabitants, which is low.

In Bethlehem, there are nine hospitals. There are 1.2 physicians per 1,000 inhabitants. The number of beds available in these hospitals was 626 in 2007, which means 3.6 beds per 1000 inhabitants.

Employment/Livelihood at the Existing Waste Sites

Waste-pickers are a common phenomenon on the existing Yatta landfill in Hebron Governorate. Daily between 30 and 50 persons, and during the school vacations even between 60 and 100 persons, sort through the solid waste that is deposited by the compactor trucks. The waste-pickers are male and some young boys, whose number increases during school vacations. Occasionally some Bedouin women scavenge the site for firewood.

Metal traders have trailers that they park on the landfill site to buy metals from waste- pickers. Some waste-pickers have pick-up vehicles on which they transport the separated solid waste to nearby villages and to Yatta city. The poorer households use donkeys as means of transport. Key informants explained that they did not observe waste-pickers at the Al Ei Zariya landfill site in Eastern Jerusalem and the three smaller landfill sites in Bethlehem Governorate.

The PCBS estimated that overall15% of the metal waste in the Palestinian territories is separated, but that the percentage is much higher for southern West Bank. Glass is also widely recycled, since Hebron City has a glass industry that specializes on handicrafts, and that uses waste glass. Owners of mechanical workshops explained that they sell metal and old rubber tires to waste-pickers or petty traders that come to their establishment at regular intervals.

A rapid assessment of the informal solid waste management systems showed that the private sector becomes involved in solid waste separation and recycling when markets are available to provide income generating opportunities. Although there is a cultural stigma associated with refuse work, under- and unemployment makes it socially more acceptable as livelihood strategy for the poorer strata of the urban and rural populations.

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 52 -

Assessment and Mitigation of IMPACTS

Introduction

Contents of this Section

Baseline surveys (Section 5) were carried out to ensure that comprehensive information was available on the nature of the existing environment in the project areas. On the basis of the project proposals described in Section 3, this Section provides the following:

• Assessment of the potential positive and negative environmental and social impacts resulting from the development of improved waste collection and transfer services, and the development of the engineered landfill; • Description of the adequacy of the mitigation measures included in the Conceptual Designs of project proposals (Section 3); • Description of environmental issues to be managed during the construction and implementation of the project, which are further elaborated in the ESMP • the potential significance of any residual impacts not mitigated fully by the project design.

Identification of Impacts

As described above, (Section 4.2) environmental and social impacts arise during the construction, operation and decommissioning of facilities. In the currently proposed project the main potential causes of impacts will be as follows.

The Proposed Landfill Site • Change of the land use of the site (purchase of land, displacement of users, destruction of biological habitat, interruption of natural water flows, prevention of other potential economic activities of the land, appearance of the site) • Construction activities (movement of vehicles, excavation, storage of construction materials, access to the site through existing and temporary roads) • Filling of waste ( movements of heavy vehicles to and from the site, operation of machinery, pollution from the waste, hazards associated with landfill gas, seismicity, illicit dumping etc) • Closing and rehabilitation of the site (interruption of natural water flows, creation of biological habitat, need for monitoring of gas and leachate)

The Proposed Transfer Station Site • Change of the land use of the site (purchase of land, displacement of users, appearance of the site, prevention of other potential economic activities of the land) • Construction activities (movement of operation of machinery, access to the site through existing and temporary roads)

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 53 -

• Operation of the station (movements of heavy vehicles and RCVs to and from the site, operation of machinery, pollution from the waste, visual appearance)

Closure of the Existing Waste Dumps • Change of the land use of the site ( displacement of waste pickers, appearance of the site, opportunities for other potential economic activities of the land) • Coverage of waste (prevention of pollution, improved visual appearance • Operation of the station (movements of heavy vehicles and RCVs to and from the site, operation of machinery, pollution from the waste, visual appearance)

Assessment and Mitigation of Impacts

As described in Section 5, the content and extent of the environmental and social matters which needed to be addressed in this ESIA were identified through scoping. This helps to ensure that the environmental information used for decision making provides a comprehensive picture of the effects of the project, including issues of particular concern to affected groups and individuals. Scoping also helps to focus the resources on the important environmental and social issues for decision making, and avoids wasted effort on issues of little relevance.

Meetings, special studies and consultation meetings (Section 5) were carried out to ensure that comprehensive information was available on the involved stakeholders and their interests in the MSW planning. Particular attention was paid to the potential risks that the stakeholders’ interests created for the planning, construction and management of a regional municipal waste management project.

Impacts were evaluated as to their potential significance, and ranked in accordance with the anticipated degree of importance, as follows:

• significant: The effect on a sensitive receptor is unacceptable (either because it breaches relevant norms, guidelines or policy, or causes damage to a valuable asset or resource) • moderate: Some effect on a sensitive receptor may be discernable, the effect is either very short-lived or within currently accepted norms etc, but will be mitigated unless no cost-effective measures are available; and, • slight or none: The effect is temporarily and of negligible concern

The norms and standards of the Palestinian Authority, the World Bank and international good practice were taken into account in making these assessments. Weight was also given to the concerns of stakeholders (as summarized in Section 4 of this document). Impacts have also been assessed as to whether they are of short-term or long-term duration, whether they are reversible or irreversible, and whether they are positive or negative. Measures to avoid, reduce or compensate for potentially significant negative impacts have been suggested in every case. Where impacts are predicted to be moderate and for positive impacts, mitigation and enhancement measures have been suggested where these are cost-effective and in accordance with good practice.

Table 7.1 summarizes the potential impacts of the project if no mitigation measures are adopted. The following Sections discuss each of the potential impacts and their causes. They also describe the mitigation measures that will be included in the ESMP to ensure that all significant negative impacts are avoided, abated to an acceptable level or compensated for. Any additional mitigation measures considered necessary beyond those already incorporated in the project design are discussed in Section 9, together with the recommendations for environmental management, environmental monitoring and associated institutional development and technical capacity building.

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 54 -

Table 0.1 Summary Assessment of Potential Impacts Before Mitigation

Proposed Proposed Existing Impact Landfill Transfer Waste Category site and Station Disposal Potential Impact approaches Site Areas Odor impacts from site activities -1 -1 +1 Dust generated from on-site vehicle movements and placement of waste and cover material 0 0 +1 Vehicle exhaust emissions on- Air Quality site 0 -1 0 Dust and emissions from construction activities -1 -1 0 Effects from emission of greenhouse gases 0 0 -1 Improved air quality on cessation of waste burning +1 0 0 Noise arising from construction of the landfill and transfer Noise station -1 -1 0 Operational noise 0 0 0 Noise from Vehicle Movement 0 0 0 Effects of site operations upon visual amenity -1 -1 +2 Change in landscape character from site construction -1 -1 +2 Aesthetic Improvement in visual amenity upon closure of the existing landfill 1 0 +2 Permanent change in landscape upon site restoration -1 0 0 Increased traffic loading and traffic congestion -1 -1 0 Air quality impacts from vehicle Roads and emissions -1 -1 0 Traffic Traffic noise 0 0 0 Littering and cleanliness during waste transit -2 0 0 Impacts from seismic activity 0 0 0 Impacts from slope instability -1 0 0 Geology and Risks from cavities in the Soils limestone underlying the site -2 0 0 Impacts at the off-site sources of construction materials -1 0 0

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 55 -

Contamination of water resources from project leachate emissions -2 0 +2 Cessation of contamination of Hydrogeology, water resources from existing Hydrology, disposal sites 0 0 +2 and Water Alteration of surface water Quality regime -1 0 0 Increased suspended sediment loading from site preparation activities -1 -1 0 Loss of biological habitats 0 0 0 Severance of wildlife corridors 0 0 0 Extension of habitats (buffer Ecology zones) +1 0 0 Creation of new habitats (post- restoration) +1 0 +1 Domestic animals and livestock 0 0 0 Direct exposure to hazardous material 0 0 +2 Contamination of potable water Public health with leachate -1 0 0 and safety Exposure to landfill gas -2 0 -2 Exposure to vermin acting as disease vectors -1 0 -2 Risk of traffic accidents -2 -1 -1 Impacts of Land Acquisition and on Land Use -2 0 -2 Loss of Arable and Grazing Land -1 0 +1 Social and Impacts on Local Social socio- Structure -2 0 +2 economic Impacts on Local Employment +1 0 +1 Impacts on Waste Pickers +1 +1 -1 Impacts on Cultural Heritage -2 0 +2 Impacts of Induced Development 0 0 +2

0 = negligible/slight; 1 = moderate; 2 = significant; - negative; + positive

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 56 -

Air Quality

Odor

Proposed Landfill Site Odors at landfill sites are generated from: • the movement, placement and decomposition of waste; • landfill gas; and • collection, storage and treatment of leachate.

Waste transported to the landfill is likely to have already undergone some decomposition and as a result, may be odorous on arrival at the landfill site. Specified procedures for sanitary landfilling include a range of measures intended to provide effective control of odors during waste deposition, primarily the disposal of waste in small well-defined cells, the compaction of waste and the application of cover to prevent prolonged exposure of vulnerable wastes to the atmosphere. These measures will be implemented on site as routine operational practice. In addition, any particularly odorous wastes will be buried immediately within previously deposited waste and covered immediately.

Cover materials at the site will be derived from excavated material from the construction of the landfill which will be stored on site. If supplementary material is needed, three other sources will be considered including the following. • Crushed and sorted inert construction wastes, of which significant volumes are being generated throughout the region; • stable, non-odorous, ‘compost’ produced from the composting of organic waste materials; • inert stabilized waste retrieved from closed dump sites, delivered to site as part of the closure and clean-up plan for small dump sites; and/or temporary sheeting and covers, made from plastic or natural fiber.

Landfill gas also has significant potential to generate odor impacts. These can be minimized through the collection and flaring of landfill gas. Both of these measures are incorporated in the proposed landfill design.

Treatment of leachate can give rise to strong and persistent odors, particularly since project proposals advocate, as one of the principal measures for leachate control and management, the re-circulation and spraying of leachate back to the landfill following aeration. The area mostly receives western winds that carry odors from the landfill to the eastern (uninhabited area) and the leachate collection pond is located over 500 m from the sensitive receivers on the east-south-east margin of the site. Nevertheless, re-circulation of leachate should be undertaken only under appropriate climatic conditions, taking into account the prevailing wind direction and the distance of the active waste deposition area from the nearest sensitive receivers.

With effective control, odors can be minimized but can never be eliminated in their entirety. Accordingly, potential impacts are considered to be negative and of moderate significance.

Transfer Station

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 57 -

The potential for odor impact at the transfer station arises from the odor of the waste arriving in the RCVs, especially if it was collected after more than 5-6 days in the bin. Other sources of odor could be leachate retained in the catch pit and channels.

Normal operation at the transfer station is for the waste to be unloaded through a hopper into a closed container. During this process the waste is exposed to the atmosphere for only a few seconds. Therefore, the probability of odors from this source being perceptible beyond the premises of the station is low. Prevention of odor from other sources will be achieved by good site practice and cleanliness, and by regular maintenance of the drainage and leachate collection systems.

Existing Waste Sites Many of the current waste collection points do not give rise to noticeable odor impacts since they are located favorably away from potentially sensitive receivers. The proposed project will introduced more waste collection points throughout a given town or village and it is inevitable that containers may be located in closer proximity to sensitive receivers than hitherto. There is a potential therefore that some people are exposed to an odor nuisance. Accordingly, in locating containers it is essential to consider the site-specific local circumstances. Sensitive receivers, such as schools, should be avoided wherever possible. Waste management employees will be trained in choosing such locations and operating procedures, including a complaints handling procedure, will be put in place to supervise and monitor their performance. Notwithstanding that there will be more communal containers throughout the Governorate, it is considered that the overall impact of project proposals will be to reduce potential odor and air quality impacts associated with waste decomposition and waste burning. Thus, project proposals are considered to be significantly positive.

Dust from Construction and Operation and Smoke

Emissions from Construction Activities Dust emissions are likely during all significant construction activities at the landfill site. Dust from site earthworks, including the construction of peripheral embankments and rockfill dams, road works, site facility construction and installation of the basal lining system are all likely to impact ambient air quality, particularly during the initial phases of construction. In the case of the landfill site, there are no nearby dwellings or occupied buildings likely to be affected. There could, however be some disturbance to road users and sheep grazing.

At the transfer station site, some dust may arise during construction due action of the wind on stored construction materials, movements of vehicles around the site and some demolition and construction of walls, fences, etc. There are nearby buildings that could be affected as could road users.

In both cases, measures to reduce the potential impacts will include: • covering of stockpiles of friable materials in order to reduce the potential for windblown dust; • damping down of site roads, supplies of water permitting; and • early installation of wheel wash facilities and mandatory use for all vehicles leaving the sites.

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 58 -

Dust from Operation At the landfill it is proposed that dust generated from site operations, including the crushing of stone, will be minimized and managed through good site practices, as follows: • filling the landfill in small, well-defined cells; • compaction of the deposited waste and application of cover material; • use of temporary wind breaks in the active waste deposition area; • use of baffles and vegetative screens wherever possible; • damping down when water is available; • construction of well-formed and well-maintained site roads throughout the site; • ensuring that there is no burning of waste on site; and • ensuring that the wheels and chassis of all vehicles are cleaned prior to departure from the site.

With judicious application of these mitigation measures the quantity of dust emissions can be kept to a minimum.

At the transfer station, after construction is concluded, almost, no dust is expected to be generated due the fact that all surfaces will be paved, and waste transfer is enclosed. Minor dust arisings may occur when waste that contains a high percentage of small particles such as stone dust, sawdust, etc is unloaded into the hopper. Any impact would be local, several meters around the hopper, and not beyond the transfer station boundaries. If this became a nuisance, the compactor operator would be required to spray water around the hopper.

Vehicle Exhaust Emissions from On-Site Vehicle Movements Vehicle exhaust emissions from landfill plant and refuse collection vehicles have the potential to cause a deterioration in local baseline air quality. Vehicle emissions from the development and subsequent operation of the landfill site will, inevitably, have some impact on the ambient air quality at the site, although such impacts will be so small as to be undetectable, except locally on the site access road and internal site roads and, only then, during the peak hour(s) of waste deliveries.

Any effects witnessed on a local-scale will be temporary nature and restricted to the immediate point of exhaust emission. The number of RCVs delivering waste to the landfill in the first year of site operations is estimated to be approximately 85, equivalent to 170 traffic movements at the site. With the exception of the hours between 11.00 and 13.00, at which time at least one-third of all deliveries will arrive at the site, the average number of RCVs per hour is around 4 to 6, resulting in one vehicle movement every 5 to 7.5 minutes on average.

Even at peak hours the number of vehicle movements is considerably less than recorded on the Bethlehem – Hebron road adjacent to the site. At this location, no significant impacts on ambient air quality have been observed as a consequence of traffic movements. Overall, the potential impact of vehicle emissions resulting from landfill-related traffic is considered to be minimal.

Effects from Emission of Greenhouse Gases

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 59 -

There is considerable debate over the sources and impacts of greenhouse gasses. However, methane gas, one of the major gaseous products from the decomposition of waste in anaerobic conditions, is widely understood to be a major greenhouse gas. Gas from the decomposition of domestic wastes is a minor contributor to the overall problem of methane emissions into the atmosphere, with emissions from animals and natural decomposition of vegetable matter likely to be the main sources of emissions. Nevertheless, the proper disposal of waste in regulated landfill together with the capture and flaring of the gas is a step in the overall movement towards control of greenhouse gas emissions and so the effect is assessed as positive.

Improvement to Overall Air Quality of Closure of the Existing Sites With the development of the new sanitary landfill facility it is proposed that the existing dump site at Yatta will be closed. At present, waste burning occurs at many illegal dump sites. Thick smoke, and the emission of potentially harmful combustion products, are associated with these dump sites. Smoke and fumes from burning waste have commonly been the subject of complaints by local residents adjacent to the illegal dump sites.

Upon closure of the illegal dump sites the burning of MSW will cease, alleviating one of the most visible and potent impacts of open dumping. Burning of waste will not be permitted at the new landfill and hence, the cessation of burning will result in a positive impact on the overall air quality in the region. This improvement in air quality is assessed to be of moderate significance.

Summary of Mitigated Impacts

A summary of the significance of the potential air quality impacts from the Project proposals relating to disposal of MSW is presented in Table 7.2 . Table 0.2: Summary of Potential Air Quality Impacts

Potential Impact Mitigation/ Positive Residual Management or Impact Proposed Negative Odor impacts from site activities Yes - Slight Dust generated from on-site vehicle Yes - Slight movements and placement of waste and cover material Vehicle exhaust emissions on-site No - Slight Dust and emissions from construction Yes - Slight activities Effects from emission of greenhouse gases Yes + Moderate Improved air quality at existing dump Yes + Significant sites

Summary of Mitigation Measures

Measures to mitigate odor impacts from site activities. Specified procedures for sanitary landfilling include a range of measures intended to provide effective control of odor during waste deposition, primarily the disposal of

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 60 -

waste in small well-defined cells, the compaction of waste and the application of odor-prove cover materials to prevent prolonged exposure of vulnerable wastes to the atmosphere. These measures will be implemented on site as routine operational practice. In addition, any particularly odorous wastes shall be buried immediately within previously deposited waste and covered.

Measures to control dust generated from on-site vehicle movements and the placement of waste and cover materials: • filling the landfill in small, well-defined cells; • compaction of the deposited and application of cover material; • use of temporary wind breaks in the active waste deposition area; • use of baffles and vegetative screens wherever possible; • damping down when water is available; • construction of well-formed and well-maintained site roads throughout the site; • ensuring that there is no burning of waste on site; and • ensuring that the wheels and chassis of all vehicles are cleaned prior to departure from the site.

Measures to mitigate dust and emissions from construction activities. A variety of measures to reduce the potential impacts will be employed, including covering of stockpiles of friable materials in order to reduce the potential for windblown dust; damping down of site roads, supplies of water permitting; early construction of the wheel wash and mandatory use for all vehicles leaving the site.

Measures to mitigate air quality impacts from vehicle emissions. At the start of site construction works, these impacts can be minimized through the use of modern, well-maintained and regularly serviced vehicles, scheduled to operate, as far as is practicable, outside of peak traffic periods.

Measures to reduce emission of greenhouse gases Active degasifying of the landfill to obtain a high landfill gas collection rate. The gas will be directed to a landfill gas flare where the gas will be incinerated at temperatures of about 1,200° C. The possible use of the extracted gas for electricity or heat generation.

Measures to improve air quality at existing dump sites Improved management (to prevent waste burning and fires), daily covering of waste and eventual closure and sealing of the sites (to prevent odor).

Noise Impacts

Construction Noise

The Landfill Site Construction activities will take place across the whole of the site at some stage during the lifetime of the project. In general the impact of construction noise will depend on: • the proximity of construction activities to noise sensitive receivers (NSRs); • the specific heavy plant and equipment deployed; and • the length of time over which construction works are undertaken.

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 61 -

The nearest NSRs are houses in al-Menya village.

Typical noise emissions from various construction equipment that may be used at the project site are summarized in Table 7.3.

Table 0.3: Typical Noise Emissions of Construction Equipment

Equipment Typical Noise Levels in dB(A) at various distances from the source 15 m 30 m 60 m 120 m 240 m Air Compressor 75-87 69-81 63-75 57-69 51-63 Backhoe 71-92 65-87 59-81 53-75 47-69 Compactor 72 66 60 54 48 Concrete Mixer 75-88 69-82 63-76 57-70 51-64 Front Loader 72-81 66-75 60-69 54-63 48-58 Power Generator 72-82 66-76 60-70 54-64 48-58 Grader 80-93 74-87 68-81 62-75 56-69 Pumps 70-90 64-84 56-78 50-72 44-66 Stone Crusher 85-95 79-89 73-83 67-77 61-74 Tractors, Dozers 78-95 72-89 66-83 60-77 54-74 Trucks 83-93 77-87 71-81 65-75 59-69 Concrete Vibrator 68-81 62-75 56-69 50-63 44-57

The most significant period of construction activity will be during the initial site infrastructure works, to be undertaken over a period of 6 to 9 months from the start of site construction. Construction works will be undertaken at the margin of the project site, generally at a minimum distance of >500 m from NSRs, although the access to the site and the development of the site access road itself, may be only >1000 m from the closest approach (see Section 3.5 for alternative access road alignments). Effective noise management protocols to be implemented as part of the project proposals include: • planting of buffer trees and shrubs where appropriate; • locating stationary equipment that is noisy as far as possible from the NSRs; • orienting equipment with high directivity to emit noise away from NSRs; • use of temporary noise baffles and noise fencing during the construction of the site access road adjacent if necessary to protect adjacent NSRs; • switching off unnecessary or idle equipment; • fitting of noise mufflers to mobile plant and equipment; and • preventative maintenance of equipment to minimize noise emissions.

Notwithstanding these measures, construction work will be limited to daytime periods, thus avoiding the night-time which is the most noise-sensitive.

In the light of the prevailing low ambient noise levels in the area surrounding the project site, it is inevitable that some noise disturbance will be experienced, particularly during the initial construction phase. However, the noise will not interrupt sleep (because there will be no activity at night), nor is the level at the NSR sufficient to disrupt normal activity (conversation, listening to radio etc). Moreover

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 62 -

the effect will be short-lived because construction will soon move from the edges of the site to other locations which may be up to two kilometers away. Such impacts, are, therefore, assessed to be of minimal significance.

The Transfer Station The extent of construction work at the transfer station is relatively minor. Amid the ambient noise of the industrial zone, no noise impact is expected.

Operational Noise

The Landfill Site Sources of operational noise from the landfill site will include: • movement of refuse collection vehicles on the site and along the site access road; • crushing of construction debris to provide site road and cover materials; • deposition, leveling and compaction of waste; • placement of waste and daily cover material; and • site capping and restoration..

On the whole, operational noise will be at a lower level than construction noise although still above prevailing baseline conditions. Operational noise will have less impact than construction noise on NSRs for the following principal reasons: • mobile plant equipment tends to be used singly, with multiple use of mobile plant equipment is restricted to short time periods, unlike construction activities; • landfilling activities are mobile and not fixed in that they move across the landfill footprint. Therefore, no area is subjected to the operation of the dozer and/or track loader, for example, for long continuous periods of time; and • all site screening measures will be in place in advance of the start of site operations.

The increased noise level as a result of operational activities is considered to be negative and of moderate significance.

The Transfer Station The sources of noise when the transfer station is operational are : • the traffic • dropping of waste into the hopper • operation of compactor.

The expected traffic load addition is approximately 50 cycles. Adding the other sources, the highest level of noise will not exceed 65 dB (A). The NSR is at a distance of around 200 m at which range the noise will not be perceptible above background and, therefore, no noise impact is expected.

Movement of RCVs

Truck noise and exhaust emissions are noticed by residents or other road users when a collection truck is temporarily static with the engines till running. During every working day such situations occur numerous times especially during the collection and emptying of a communal container into the compactor truck. Specifically, where a number of containers are placed in one spot, the noise, smell and vehicle exhaust

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 63 -

emissions can reach levels that could be irritating for residents. New collection trucks supplied as part of the project will meet EURO 2 standards with respect to vehicle noise emissions and exhaust emissions to air. However, it is inevitable that during enhanced levels of collection service provision that noise levels and vehicle exhaust emissions will increase.

In line with the assessment of traffic impacts below, the overall contribution of the waste collection fleet to vehicle noise and exhaust emissions is considered to be minor. In a regional context, the impact is assessed to be negative but of minimal significance. On a local scale, however, it is likely that such impacts may be regarded as moderate but will transient (temporary) and reversible in nature.

Summary of Noise Impacts A summary of the significance of the potential noise impacts arising from the project proposals is presented in Table 7.4.

Table 0.4: Summary of Potential Noise Impacts

Potential Impact Mitigation/ Positive or Residual Management Negative Impact Proposed Noise arising from construction of Yes - Slight the landfill and transfer station Noise arising from site operations Yes - Slight Noise from Vehicle Movement Yes - Slight

Summary of Mitigation Measures

Measures to minimize construction noise Effective noise management protocols to be implemented as part of the project proposals include: • planting of buffer trees and shrubs where appropriate; • locating stationary equipment that is noisy as far as possible from the NSRs; • orienting equipment with high directivity to emit noise away from NSRs; • use of temporary noise baffles and noise fencing during the construction of the site access road adjacent if necessary to protect adjacent NSRs; • switching off unnecessary or idle equipment; • fitting of noise mufflers to mobile plant and equipment; • preventative maintenance of equipment to minimize noise emissions.

Measures to minimize operational noise • mobile plant equipment will be used singly, with multiple use of mobile plant equipment is restricted to short time periods, unlike construction activities; • landfilling activities will be mobile and not fixed in that they move across the landfill footprint. Therefore, no area is subjected to the operation of the dozer and/or track loader, for example, for long continuous periods of time; and • all site screening measures will be in place in advance of the start of site operations.

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 64 -

Measures to reduce traffic noise As a matter of routine it is considered good practice to use only modern, well- maintained and regularly serviced vehicles in order to minimize the potential negative impacts of increased traffic flows.

Potential Aesthetic Impacts

Introduction

This section describes the potential aesthetic impacts associated with the proposed landfill, the transfer station and the closure of the existing waste dumps. These effects arise from the visual and landscape impacts of the change in appearance of the sites and the presence or absence of litter and wind-blown detritus.

The Landfill Site

Visual Amenity The design of the landfill has had to incorporate a balance between the functional requirements of the infrastructure with the landscape of the neighborhood. Olive plantations form the dominant landscape to the north and the west of the proposed location. There is even a small olive plantation to the east of the landfill. The compound of the landfill will have to be fenced to prevent unauthorized persons from entering the site. To avoid a visually intrusive impact on the surroundings, active landscaping will be practiced. Shade trees will therefore be planted behind the fence, of similar varieties to those that farmers in al-Menya have planted on their farmyards and buffer zones, including tree and shrub belts, will be used to screen operations. In addition, the operational practices proposed for the site incorporate a number of specific proposals to mitigate visual impacts including: • compaction and covering of waste following deposition; • organized waste disposal using cellular methods of filling; • a complete ban on the burning of waste materials on site; • installation of site perimeter fencing to control litter blow at the site margin; and • use of portable litter fences around the active cell to reduce litter blow.

Notwithstanding such measures it is impossible to screen all of the site activities, particularly once the filling progresses to an elevation above the crest of the rockfill dams. However, direct lines of sight to the landfill area are few, with only the two dwellings east-south-east of the site being in close proximity to the landfill footprint. In this location filling will proceed away from the dwellings in order to minimize the visibility of site operations.

Landscape Character The project proposals comprise the construction of the following site infrastructure: • paved access road; • waste reception area and associated office and maintenance buildings; leachate storage pond; and • two rockfill dams.

Project proposals incorporate substantial provision to plant tree and shrub belts in the buffer zones on the margins of the site. Nevertheless the development constitutes a

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 65 -

long-term change to the rural character of the immediate project area, although such elements occupy less than 2 % of the overall project site area.

The engineered landfill will be filled and restored at a level that is broadly conformable with the elevation of the surrounding hillsides, although it will be up to 50 m above the floor of the remaining parts of the northern valley. It is proposed to restore the side slopes of the site at a gradient of I in 4 (vertical to horizontal) (approximately 140), again conformable with the existing valley side slopes. The final restoration profile proposed is assessed to be in character with the existing landscape and to give rise to a landform that is consistent with the prevailing topography. Accordingly, it is assessed that there will be no impacts in this respect upon restoration of the site.

The Transfer Station

The transfer station appearance is generally in conformity with the surrounding industrial setting. No visual or landscape impacts are expected as a result of its structure or appearance. These is some potential however, for visual impact if litter and wind-blown detritus is allowed to accumulate on site and to be blown onto adjacent premises. It is proposed to construct a 2.5 m high fence made of solid (non- transparent) material along the boundaries of the transfer station. This will prevent littering and waste being blown out of the site during strong wind. It will also screen site activities from neighbors and passers-by and minimize noise. In addition, a buffer zone will be developed around the facility in which trees and bushes shall be planted.

The Wider Project Area

The existing dump sites, particularly the Yatta Landfill are unsightly, due to waste burning, litter and the general disorganized distribution of waste around the sites. The closure and restoration of these sites to their natural conditions is assessed to have a positive impact of high significance.

As noted above there will be more waste collection points across the project area and, in some areas, increased collection frequencies, both of which will result in more of the existing waste stream being collected and removed from the community. The siting of the waste collection containers requires some sensitivity towards the character of the particular locations. Also, street sweeping, litter prevention initiatives and enforcement of measures to prohibit waste burning will also minimize visual impacts throughout the Governorates. The visual impacts of the project proposals are considered, therefore, to be positive and of moderate significance.

Summary of Impacts A summary of the significance of the potential visual/landscape impacts arising from the project proposals is presented in Table 7.5.

Table 0.5: Summary of Potential Aesthetic Impacts

Potential Impact Mitigation/ Positive or Residual Management Negative Impact

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 66 -

Proposed Effects of site operations upon visual Yes - Minimal amenity Change in landscape character from Yes - Minimal site construction Improvement in visual amenity upon Yes + High closure of the existing dumps Permanent change in landscape upon Yes + None site restoration

Summary of Mitigation Measures

Measures to avoid impacts on visual amenity Active landscaping will be practiced. Shade trees will be planted behind the boundary fences using similar tree varieties to those in the surroundings. The operational practices will incorporate measures to reduce litter, and smoke. There will be organized waste disposal using cellular methods of filling. Sites will be tidy.

Measures to avoid changes in landscape character from site construction Perimeter fencing will be put up at all sites to be developed. Buffer zones, including tree and shrub belts, will be used to screen operations.

Measures to improve visual amenity upon closure of the existing sites Closure and remediation of sites. New waste management procedures including street sweeping, litter prevention initiatives and enforcement of measures to prohibit waste burning waste. Training of waste company staff in sensitive siting of waste collection containers.

Measures to avoid change in the landscape upon site restoration The final restoration of the landfill site in character with the existing landscape and with a landform that is consistent with the prevailing topography.

Roads and Traffic Impacts

The Landfill Site

Approximate road travel distances between the proposed landfill and Hebron and Bethlehem are 24-29 km and 14-20 km respectively; it is anticipated that RCVs would take 40 minutes to reach the site from the transfer station in Hebron and 25 minutes from Bethlehem. All waste disposal vehicles will need to access the site via the Highway 60.

It is anticipated that the peak hours for truck arrivals at the site will be between 11:00 and 13:00 hours each day, with peak hourly flows between 13 and 16 RCVs per hour (26-32 truck movements per hour). The waste delivery traffic represents an increase of between 5 % and 10 % compared to existing very light traffic flows.

As a proportion of the ‘slow-moving’ vehicles, the waste delivery traffic to the site represents an increase of between c. 30 % and 60 %. Whilst this increase is,

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 67 -

numerically, quite large, it is not anticipated that there will be any significant impact on the speed of road users or the capacity of the road. On the road from Bethlehem to the landfill, the maximum number of RCVs will be on the road between 10:00-1 3:00. This will not significantly increase the number or slow down the speed of the road users, as the number of trucks during these hours was surveyed as 45 to 80.

The potential for impacts on the roads and traffic at the proposed landfill sites arises from the need for the large waste transfer vehicles to access the site. The projected traffic load for the waste transportation, is about 70-120 truck of different sizes per day. Assuming optimum conditions, we can assume 8 trips per day of the hauling trucks (40 ton capacity) from Hebron proposed transfer station to the proposed landfill and about 40-60 trucks, of different sizes, from other communities of the remaining project area. Highway # 60 can easily accommodate this load but the movement of such a number of trucks will cause noise pollution, block local movement and pose a health and safety risk on the local roads leading to the site through al-Menya.

In order to mitigate the effect on the people of al-Menya, an alternative road section has been included into the project design. Instead of turning at the al-Menya junction, trucks will be routed to the right through al-Rashaydeh road. Then, close to the area of demolished housing at al-Rashaydeh, an alternative road section of 400 meter length will be constructed along the unplanted area, avoiding any damage to the olive trees. This will reduce any impacts on the residents around the site to slight.

The Transfer Station

The access road running alongside the transfer station has a capacity of around 4,000 vehicles per day. The recent traffic load is estimated to be around several hundred cycles per hour at peak times. Thus the road has a lot of spare capacity. Operation of the transfer station will add around 50 cycles per day (see above) and will constitute a very slight influence on the expected traffic load versus the traffic capacity of the road.

Some impact could be caused when the vehicles slow to turn into the site. The transfer station design therefore includes separate entry and exit connections to the main road and a merging lane to allow vehicles leaving the site to enter the traffic stream more easily.

The Wider Project Area

Traffic Congestion Collection vehicles serving as waste transfer vehicles to the landfill will stop only at the designated transfer points, typically located off the main roads, and will not delay normal road traffic. In the urban areas, the total collection fleet, particularly in the bigger cities like Hebron, Halhul and Bethlehem, will be reduced since there is currently over capacity. In addition, a waste collection and waste haulage traffic management plan will be implemented in order to schedule vehicles to the optimum time of the day.

The existing waste collection fleet accounts for an estimated 0.1% to 0.2% of total road traffic movements. Accordingly, the comparatively small increase in the overall

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 68 -

collection fleet is not considered to be significant when viewed against the overall growth in vehicular traffic, conservatively estimated at 5% per annum. Overall, it is anticipated that potentially adverse traffic impacts will be of minimal significance.

Impacts from Vehicle Emissions and Noise The projected growth of traffic would increase in exhaust emissions and noise from waste delivery vehicles and trucks conveying material to the transfer station and landfill sites. Since the project proposals result in only very small increases in total traffic flows, compared to those resulting from other developments, it may be concluded that the impact of project proposals on air quality, and noise although negative, is of minimal significance. Any negative impacts will be minimized through the use of modern, well-maintained and regularly serviced vehicles, scheduled to operate, as far as is practicable, outside of peak traffic periods. This will be facilitated by the supply of new modern collection equipment that will conform to EURO 2 performance standards.

The projected increase of traffic noted above would generate additional noise along the principal haulage routes. On the basis that the project proposals result in only very small increases in total traffic flows, compared to those resulting from other developments, it may be concluded that the impact of project proposals on off-site noise, although negative, is of minimal significance. As a matter of routine it is considered good practice to use only modern, well-maintained and regularly serviced vehicles in order to minimize the potential negative impacts of increased traffic flows.

Littering and Cleanliness During Waste Transit Waste delivered to the project site will be enclosed either in a RCV or haulage container or will be covered by tarpaulin, sheet or netting (in the case of open bulk- loaded containers). This practice will ensure that waste materials do not spill onto public roads. The site management principles incorporated in the project proposals endorse this practice and require that it is enforced rigorously, regardless of the source of the waste delivered to the site. In this respect the project proposals are assessed to have no impact.

Summary of Impacts A summary of the significance of the potential off-site traffic impacts arising from the project proposals is presented in Table 7.6.

Table 0.6: Summary of Potential Off-site Traffic Impacts

Potential Impact Mitigation/ Positive or Residual Management Negative Impact Proposed Increased traffic loading and Yes - Slight traffic congestion Air quality impacts from No - Slight vehicle emissions Traffic noise No - Slight Littering and cleanliness Yes + Slight during waste transit

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 69 -

Summary of Mitigation Measures

Measures to prevent increased traffic loading and traffic congestion • A new road section of 400 meter length will be constructed to provide access to the landfill site whilst ensuring that trucks avoid the al-Menya junction. • The road connecting El Masara with Arab Er Rashadyda will be rehabilitated and paved • The transfer station access will include separate entry and exit connections to the main road and a merging lane • RCV routes will be controlled to prevent taking shortcuts on unsuitable roads

Measures to prevent littering during waste transit Waste delivered to the project site will be enclosed either in a RCV or haulage container or will be covered by tarpaulin, sheet or netting (in the case of open bulk- loaded containers).

Geology and Soils

Introduction

Impacts related to geology may arise due to the location of the landfill site in relation to the seismicity of the area and the design of the landfill and the stability of its construction. There are also risks related to cavities in the karstic limestone underneath the site. Impacts on soils may arise when construction or cover material for the landfill is sourced off-site and when the existing waste dump sites are remediated. No impacts related to geology or soils are expected as a result of transfer station construction or operation.

Seismicity

The main geologically disturbed zone is the Dead Sea fault zone located some 19 km away from the site of the proposed landfill. Geological investigations have revealed that at least one fault crosses the project site, whilst faults are also known to occur within 300 m to the north and to the south of the landfill footprint. Discussions with leading seismic authorities in Israel revealed that a reasonable estimate of the seismic activity magnitude at the site would be around 5.0. The Geophysical Institute of Israel estimates return frequency of seismic events of Magnitude 5.0 is once per hundred years. Major earthquake activity in the proximity of the site could result in ground shaking and shearing-induced displacements along pre-existing faults. In such circumstances the potential impacts at the landfill could include:

• instability in the waste faces; • rupture of pipe work; and • breach of containment measures at the landfill or leachate treatment pond.

Of these potential impacts, a breach in leachate containment is the potentially the most significant environmental risk.

The impacts from potential seismic activity cannot be completely mitigated in the landfill development. Nevertheless, all practicable engineering and operational

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 70 -

mitigation measures have been incorporated into the landfill design in order to minimize any potential impact from seismic activity and any associated fault displacement. These include: • Locating any leachate sumps and the zone of maximum leachate accumulation as far away from a possible fault plane as possible; • grading of the landfill bed and basal lining system to drain away from the fault zone, with the lowest point of the landfill bed away from the fault plane as far as practicable - the highest point of the cell is designed to be coincident with the location of the fault plane. This and the first measure ensure that leachate accumulation does not occur in the vicinity of the fault plane; • as far as practicable the landfill footprint has avoided the inferred position of a possible fault plane. Where the footprint crosses the inferred alignment of a fault plane, this occurs on the steeply-sloping southern flank of the eastern valley, at a level significantly above the zone of leachate accumulation; • installation of a leachate collection system that is highly permeable and will promote rapid leachate flow to the collection pond to the north of the landfill footprint. This, allied with strict operational controls, is designed to limit leachate levels to as low as practicable, generally of the order of 0.5 m; • capping of the landfill upon completion of filling in order to minimize further leachate production which, in turn, would reduce the potential impact of any breach in containment should this occur.

Overall, the potential impact of seismic activity in the areas away from the fault zone is considered to be similar to that in other parts of the Hebron District. The potential impact from seismic activity and fault plane displacement on the proposed landfill development is negative and considered to be of minimal significance.

Slope Stability

In terms of cost-effectiveness of landfilling, it is preferable to maximize the available void space (within geotechnical and geometrical constraints) and minimize the area of the landfill footprint. Steeper slopes can lead to slope instability and associated risk of loss of containment and visual impacts. The design of the landfill has considered the stability issues surrounding landfill development, including both landfill and valley flank slope stability.

Measures incorporated into the project design include: • maximum landfill bed slopes of lv:3h; • construction of embankment dams at the north and east boundaries of the landfill footprint which act as a counterweight to the load imposed by the fill materials; • use of existing valley side slopes to contain deposited waste elsewhere on the site; • maximum slope on the restored landfill surface of lv:4h; • maximum cut slopes in bedrock of 10v:lh; • maximum fill of embankment slopes of I v:2h; • a phased and progressive sequence of filling, with individual waste lifts no greater than 2.5 m thick; • temporary waste slopes no greater than lv:2h and limited to a maximum height of 15 m. Such slopes are assumed to be benched every 5 m vertical height.

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 71 -

On the basis of the above, potential impacts arising from slope stability are considered to be of minimal significance only.

Cavities in the Limestone Underlying the Site

There are cavities of various sizes in the karstic limestone underneath the site. If one of the caverns collapses as result of the load of the waste body there is a risk of damage to the landfill base seal. This risk depends on both the depth as well as the size of the cavities. If the total height of all cavities amounts to about 30 cm and the thickness of the overlying (compacted) limestone amounts to more than 3 m, no damages on the base sealing system will be expected, since limestone has the effect of an arch. An additional risk is that if cavities fill with landfill gas, there is a danger of explosion.

The risks posed by cavities will be addressed as follows. Additional soil investigations are being contracted to better define the extent of such cavities and recommend detailed design measures to be included in the bidding documents and include them in the contract to safeguard the stability of the landfill foundation. Tests will be undertaken for big cavities on the site to find out how many of them are present and at what depth. If the geophysical investigations indicate that a cavity may be present, a test drilling on that location will be required to confirm the presence of a (shallow) cavity. In case the presence of a large cavity is indeed confirmed by the drilling, then this cavity will be filled with appropriate materials (clay or bentonite) to prevent future collapse of this cavity. This drilling and injection can be done later in the construction phase (after reaching the final excavated level). This first run investigation will help to assess the fate of the risk and will help in producing maps that will help to avoid high risk areas (if proved to exist). This step is also important to locate the leachate pond in the safest place inside the site.

If no cavities are identified in the above step, then the preparation work on the site can proceed. In this case, after excavating the site to the actual working ground level, further steps can be undertaken to avoid any possible problems due to underground cavities. Again shallow geophysical investigations (seismic/geo-electrical/electro- magnetic) on the base of the landfill will be undertaken, to identify potential cavities directly under the surface (up to a depth of about 3 m). If the second round of geophysical investigations indicates that a cavity might exist, then a test drilling on that location will be required to confirm the presence of a (shallow) cavity. In case this presence is indeed confirmed by the drilling, then this cavity needs to be filled up with appropriate materials (clay or bentonite) to prevent future collapse of this cavity. Next the construction of the landfill can be completed.

Off-site Sourcing of Landfill Earthwork Materials

Site engineering works make a large demand on the importation of materials sourced from off-site. As far as practicable, materials won from the site will be used in landfill construction (e.g. rockfill dam construction). However, it may be necessary to import materials in order to construct the capping layers. In addition, for leachate drainage, there is a requirement to use non-carbonate sources of granular materials in order to avoid the potential blockage of the leachate collection system from re-precipitated calcium carbonate.

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 72 -

Wherever practicable and affordable, the landfill design has adopted a pragmatic approach, combining the use of natural materials that are available locally with the use of geosynthetic components that will have to be imported from abroad. Even so, it is estimated that there is a requirement to import around 312,000 m3 of clay, sand and gravel throughout the life of the project. Much of the materials required are available locally, as confirmed through inquiries made of local contractors, although at this stage in project development it is not yet possible to determine from which precise sources the materials would be derived.

Assessment of suitability of sites will be undertaken before sourcing construction materials and close cooperation will be maintained with EQA who are responsible for approval and permitting to ensure that environmental impacts at the borrow sites are kept to a minimum. Accordingly, the assessed significance of this potential impact is considered to be minimal to moderate.

Summary of Potential Geological and Geotechnical Impacts A summary of the potential impacts arising from site geology and geo-technical properties are presented in Table 7.7.

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 73 -

Table 0.7: Summary of Potential Geological and Geotechnical Impacts

Potential Impact Mitigation/ Positive or Residual Management Negative Impact Proposed Impacts from seismic activity Yes - Slight Impacts from slope instability No - Slight Risks from cavities in the Yes - Slight limestone underlying the site Impacts at the off-site sources of Yes - Slight construction materials

Summary of Mitigation Measures

Measures to mitigate risks from seismic activity • Locating leachate accumulation away from fault planes • Grading the landfill bed to drain away from the fault zone

Measures to mitigate risks associated with cavities underlying the site • Shallow geophysical investigations to find out how many cavities and at what depth • Test drilling to confirm the presence of a (shallow) cavity • Large cavities filled with appropriate materials to prevent future collapse • Production of maps that will help to avoid high risk areas

Measures to mitigate impacts at off-site sources of construction materials • Storing materials won from the site for later used in landfill construction and cover • Assessment of suitability of sites before sourcing construction materials and compliance with permitting procedure

Hydrogeology, Hydrology and Water Quality

Introduction

This Section discusses the significance of potential hydrogeological, hydrological and water quality impacts associated with project proposals. There are four potentially significant impact areas associated with the construction and operation of both the proposed landfill and the transfer station as follows.

• Contamination of water resources by leachate • Alteration of Surface Water Regime • Increased sediment load of surface water • Surface water contamination by fuel spillage

The potentially beneficial effects of closing the existing waste dumps, particularly the site at Yatta will also be considered.

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 74 -

Contamination of Water Resources from Leachate Emissions

The Landfill Site Geological data for the landfill site indicate that it is located above strata of the Upper Aquifer. Marls and marlstones are recorded immediately beneath the proposed landfill bed in the northern valley. These deposits form part of the Senonian chalk and chert transition beds which, generally are regarded as an aquitard on the basis of their comparatively low mass permeability.

As discussed in Section 6.4, the Upper Aquifer supplies water for domestic use in the region, the lithology and structural properties of the beds forming the Upper Aquifer provide significant potential for rapid groundwater flow and, at the same time, afford little opportunity for contaminant attenuation. As such, the Upper Aquifer underlying the landfill site is sensitive although its vulnerability to contamination is unlikely to be great due to:

• the considerable depth to groundwater from which domestic and potable supplies are extracted; and • the low groundwater recharge potential in the immediate vicinity of the site as a consequence of the outcropping of low permeability Senonian deposits in the immediate vicinity.

Nevertheless, in consideration of the potential sensitivity of the groundwater beneath the site, and in accordance with international norms and good practice, the design for the landfill has specified several integral engineering mitigation measures in order to minimize any potential contamination from leachate. Accordingly, a leachate containment, collection and treatment system is a fundamental component of the engineering measures proposed, comprising:

• the installation of two basal lining systems in the zone of leachate accumulation, both designed to meet a maximum permeability specification that is lower than 1 x 10-7 ms; • the use of a double lining system, comprising two HDPE layers which, in will provide a robust and well proven barrier layer inhibiting uncontrolled leachate seepage; • the provision of a high permeability leachate collection and transfer system to facilitate the collection of leachate percolating through waste materials and to drain leachate from the landfill in order to prevent a build-up of leachate within the body of the deposited waste; • the provision of a leachate treatment pond and re-circulation facilities and equipment to promote the evaporation of any collected leachate, in order to reduce leachate quantities and leachate strength; • an operational and leachate management policy that is based on not discharging any leachate off-site. Anticipated leachate volumes are 30 m3 per day or less - these volumes can be managed easily within the treatment/storage pond provided on site. • In emergencies temporary storage of leachate can also be provided in tanks or within the landfill; and

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 75 -

• the adoption of routine operational measures to minimize leachate generation and the volumes of leachate to be treated, including control of surface water run-on, cellular filling and the adoption of re-circulation to dry absorptive waste.

When these measures have been adopted, the risk of leachate seepage to groundwater will be extremely low. In order to ensure that leachate emissions do not occur at any stage, the following measures will also be implemented as part of the project development: • the employment of experienced sub-contractors to install the geosynthetic components of the basal composite lining system; • high standards of construction quality assurance during installation of the basal lining system and the leachate collection system, monitored by an experienced expatriate technical advisor to be employed by the JSC; • pro-active control over leachate levels within the landfill during site operation; • regular monitoring of leachate levels within each sub-area of the landfill to ensure no unforeseen build-up of leachate over the basal lining system; and • monitoring of any leachate breakthrough between the double liners at the downs lope side of inter-liner drainage measures.

With the implementation of all of the above protective measures the potential impact of leachate emissions is considered to be of minimal significance. Recommended monitoring requirements are discussed further in Section 9.

The Transfer Station No waste will be stored at the transfer station for longer than a few days. The potential for groundwater contamination by leachate, therefore arises only from the possibility that water comes into contact with waste being unloaded, in temporary storage, or that has been spilled on site. Furthermore, any contaminated water will be unable to penetrate through the surfaces of the facility, which will be paved with double layer of asphalt concrete or reinforced concrete. To catch water running off the site the slope of the surfaces will be 1.5-2% for fast flow to catch points. The distance between catch points will be 20 m or less. The probability of infiltration through the paved surface, in case of cracks in the surface, is insignificant. Water from the catch points will be directed to the public sewer. The possibility of contamination will be minimized by good site management practices (necessary in any case to minimize odor and litter).

Beside, the transfer station is located in an arid area and the groundwater level is several hundred meters below the ground surface.

The Wider Project Area All of the existing waste disposal sites have been operating without lining or proper containment of the leachate. This presents a large threat to surface water bodies and ground water. At Yatta site, in particular, leachates are seen in the adjacent wadis and in winter, flood water washes out huge quantities of leachate (estimated at 14,000- 20,000 m3). The soils and sediments in the wadis are a dark color indicating pollution by leachates Impacts of the existing waste disposal sites on water resources is therefore severely negative. The closure and remediation of such sites will be of significant benefit.

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 76 -

Alteration of Surface Water Regime

The Landfill Site There are no permanent water courses draining through the landfill site, although it is anticipated that, during high intensity rainfall events or periods of high cumulative rainfall, there will be storm water flow along the southeastern valley. The landfill development will constitute a barrier to these flows, potentially resulting in the backing up of water on the upstream side of the landfill. The landfill design includes, therefore, a series of engineering measures to prevent the ponding of water and to provide uninterrupted flow of storm water. These comprise drainage ditches to divert surface water around and under the proposed landfill, all sized to accommodate the storm water flows anticipated for a 1:100 year return period rainfall event. The ultimate drainage outfall from the site area and the catchment upstream of the landfill site will therefore be unaltered, that is the project proposals will not: • alter the quantities of surface water draining through the northern valley; • alter the speed at which surface run-off is generated within the site area; nor • alter the water storage capacity of the soils within the project site.

Accordingly the impact of the landfill development on the surface water regime is assessed to be of no significance unless maintenance of the surface drainage channels is neglected, at which time the potential exists for impedance of surface water flows draining the catchment area upstream of the site.

The Transfer Station Since the area around the transfer station is developed as part of an industrial zone, there is no potential to disrupt the natural water regime. There will be a drainage ditch around the perimeter of the facility, but its main purpose will be to divert run-off from operational areas to reduce the potential for leachate generation.

Increased Sediment Load of Surface Water

The Landfill Site Site preparation and construction activities will only take place during the construction phase as the whole landfill will be engineered at one time. Further operational activities such as winning and applying of cover materials throughout the lifetime of the landfill can cause emission of suspended sediments.

Although the negative impact of such a dispersion of fine dust is rather limited, it can even be reduced by the following engineering measures: • stripping of soil materials in advance of landfill bed preparation; • placement in, and retrieval of soils from, material stockpiles; • excavation of rock and grading of landfill bed; • placement of basal lining systems and leachate drainage layers; and • placement of landfill cap and cover materials.

Each of these activities has the potential to generate large quantities of loose and potentially erodible soil that could be transported off-site during storm water flows. The Contractor’s Construction Method Statements and the Operator’s Site Operational Plan should incorporate a series of routine measures to prevent the

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 77 -

transfer of suspended sediment off-site. Specific measures recommended in the Environmental Management Plan are set out in Section 9.

In view of the infrequent surface water flows in the project area, this potential impact is assessed to be of minimal significance.

The Transfer Station Site In the same way that the transfer station has limited potential to disrupt the water regime (see above), it will have no potential to increase sediment loading. Sediment trapped in the catch points and drainage ditch will be removed during routine cleaning and maintenance.

Contamination of Water Resources by Fuel Spillage

Potential exists for fuel/lubricant spillage in any area where activities such as vehicle refueling, repair and maintenance are undertaken and in any areas where fuels are stored in significant quantities. The risk is greater at the landfill site, because the transfer station site area will be completely paved. The measures needed to avoid any such impacts are similar however and include:

• the storm water and all other site drainage systems, including those serving the maintenance repair bays, refueling areas etc should incorporate oil/water interceptors and traps that are cleaned regularly. • all maintenance and refueling areas are covered with hardstanding (concrete or asphalt) and that refueling of vehicles does not take place anywhere else on site; • all fuels or chemicals stored on site are placed on a paved surface and surround by a bund of appropriate height to capture fuel that may be released in case of tank failure.

With such protective measures in place, it is considered unlikely that there would be any significant uncontrolled releases of fuel oils to the surrounding environment. Accordingly, it is considered that this potential impact is of minimal significance.

Summary of Impacts The assessed significance of the potential hydrogeological, hydrological, and water quality impacts is presented in Table 7.8.

Table 0.8: Summary of Potential Hydrogeological, Hydrological and Water Quality Impacts

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 78 -

Potential Impact Mitigation/ Positive Residual Management or Impact Proposed Negative Contamination of water resources from Yes - Slight project leachate emissions Cessation of contamination of water Yes + Significant resources from existing disposal sites Alteration of surface water regime Yes - Slight Increased suspended sediment loading No - Slight from site preparation activities Contamination of water resources by fuel Yes - Slight spillage

Summary of Mitigation Measures

Groundwater quality protection measures The project design recognizes the potential adverse effects of leachate emissions from the site on groundwater resources. Accordingly, the development of a leachate containment, collection and treatment system is a fundamental component of the engineering measures proposed, comprising: • the installation of two HDPE lining systems in the zone of leachate accumulation, both designed to meet the maximum permeability specification • the provision of a high permeability leachate collection and transfer system to facilitate the collection of leachate percolating through waste materials and to drain leachate from the landfill in order to prevent a build-up of leachate within the body of the deposited waste; • the provision of a leachate treatment pond and re-circulation facilities and equipment to promote the evaporation of any collected leachate, in order to reduce leachate quantities and leachate strength; • an operational and leachate management policy that is based on not discharging any leachate off-site. • the adoption of routine operational measures to minimize leachate generation, including control of surface water run-on, cellular filling and the adoption of re- circulation to dry absorptive waste.

Measures to stop water pollution from existing sites Remediation of existing sites which will involve the following: • re-opening and cleaning of the wadis with sediment removal • construction of diversion channels for runoff water • construction of retaining walls around the perimeter • covering with a liner (fitted underneath the base of the retaining wall) • dividing the site surface area into smaller catchments that contain gravitational outlets

Mitigation Measures to prevent impacts of surface water flow regimes The landfill design has incorporated a series of engineering measures in order to prevent the ponding of water and to provide uninterrupted flow of storm water. The proposed measures comprise drainage ditches to divert surface water around and

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 79 -

under the proposed landfill, all sized to accommodate the storm water flows anticipated for a 1:100 year return period rainfall event.

Measures to prevent contamination of water resources by fuel spillage • the storm water and all other site drainage systems, including those serving the maintenance repair bays, refueling areas etc should incorporate oil/water interceptors and traps that are cleaned regularly. • all maintenance and refueling areas are covered with hardstanding (concrete or asphalt) • refueling of vehicles does not take place anywhere except designated areas; • all fuels or chemicals stored on site are placed on a paved surface and surround by a bund of appropriate height to capture fuel that may be released in case of tank failure.

Potential Impacts on Flora and Fauna

Introduction

This section describes the range of potential impacts on flora and fauna, both natural wildlife and domestic and livestock animals, associated with the proposed landfill, the transfer station and the closure of the existing dumpsites, particularly the site at Yatta.

Biological Habitats

The Landfill Site The proposed landfill site is devoid of natural vegetation across a large area of the site, with bedrock outcrops dominating on the valley flanks and agriculture in the valley floor. The review of ecological conditions at the site revealed no flora or floral assemblages that are unique to the site or are listed as protected species. Similarly the review revealed no fauna or faunal assemblages that are unique to the site or are listed as protected species. Nor are there important ecosystems recorded within or in the immediate vicinity of the project site so there is no potential for severance of wildlife corridors

Birds could be attracted to the landfill and this might impact birds having migratory flight paths passing through the Southern West Bank area. It has been reported that many species of birds (i.e. sparrows such as hedge or sun sparrows) used to be observed near the site, but for the last five years only a few sparrows and partridges could be seen at some times of the year.

Even though there are no rare or endangered species, the noise and daily work of landfill construction and operation could disturb the area’s birds and wild mammals. There might also be direct contact between birds and animals with waste if they try to feed on it. This could create pollution and accumulation of contaminants in the food web that forms the terrestrial ecosystem. Daily soil cover and good operational practice to prevent scattering of waste will prevent these effects.

Project proposals include provision for peripheral shrub and tree belts within the buffer zone around the landfill footprint, as part of the measures to screen site

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 80 -

activities and lessen the potential for significant environmental impact arising from site operations. The buffer zones will be planted with local native species of trees and shrubs which will increase substantially the local area occupied by such vegetation. Habitat will thus be provided for animals particularly birds, reptiles, insects and arachnids.

Also, following completion of infilling activities, the site can be restored for agricultural purposes and/or for low intensity recreational activities, including parkland. The introduction of an organic loamy soil (‘topsoil’) will encourage soil organisms to flourish in a site that, currently, is comparatively barren. In association with the tree and shrubs planted for screening purposes, restoration of the site offers ample opportunity to create a variety of new habitats which, it is anticipated, will be of ecological benefit to the local area.

The Transfer Station There is no ecological value at or around the transfer station. Planting in the buffer zone will provide some habitat to urban wildlife, primarily birds but the effect will be negligible.

The Wider Project Area Project proposals involve the closure of all of the dump sites throughout the service area of the Governorate. Closure will involve either: • the complete removal of previously deposited waste; • the partial removal of large bulky objects; • the reduction of the area occupied by deposited waste as far as practicable; and/or • the covering of the residual waste with a layer of debris and soil.

Such measures will not only reduce the polluting potential of the previously deposited waste but also encourage the return of flora and fauna to areas that are currently barren. Accordingly, project proposals are considered to be positive.

Domestic Animals and Livestock

The project proposals prohibit domesticated animals from the landfill site and any of the other associated facilities. However, ample land is available in the immediate vicinity of the site. Until about 5 years ago, the area was intensively used for grazing cattle and feeding sheep and goats. Since then the area has been too degraded to be used as rangeland point and people who rear animals now have to provide feed. Among the risks that a landfill could pose on grazing in the neighboring land is the spread of plastic bags which will kill any livestock and cattle that swallow them.

Proper fencing, good site management and the planting of a green belt buffer zone will help to alleviate the spreading of the bags by winds. Other risks such as the livestock directly eating waste entering the landfill, such as vegetables, will be suppressed by making sure the fencing keeps animals out. For this reason the fence will be set into the ground and fixed on steel pipes of 3 m height and inclined out at the top by 0.5 m.

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 81 -

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 82 -

Summary of Impacts A summary of the significance of the potential ecological impacts arising from the project proposals is presented in Table 7.9.

Table 0.9: Summary of Potential Ecology Impacts

Potential Impact Mitigation/ Positive or Residual Impact Management Negative Proposed Loss of biological habitats No - Slight Severance of wildlife corridors No - Slight Extension of habitats (buffer Yes + Slight zones) Creation of new habitats (post- Yes + Moderate restoration) Domestic animals and Yes + Moderate livestock

Summary of Mitigation Measures

Measures to extend habitats (buffer zones). Project proposals include provision for peripheral shrub and tree belts within the buffer zone around the landfill footprint. The buffer zones will be planted with local native species of trees and shrubs. The additional planting will increase substantially the overall area occupied by trees and shrubs in the immediate vicinity of the project site.

Measures related to creation of new habitats (post-restoration) The introduction of an organic loamy soil (‘topsoil’) will encourage soil organisms to flourish in a site that, currently, is comparatively barren.

Measures to reduce impacts to domestic animals and livestock • Preventing the spread of plastic bags by proper fencing, good site management and the planting of a green belt buffer zone • Preventing the livestock entering the landfill site with a fence that is set into the ground and fixed on steel pipes of 3 m height and inclined out at the top by 0.5 m.

Health and Safety

Introduction

This Section discusses the range of potential health and safety impacts to the public and to the workforce associated with MSW disposal. Most potential impacts are associated with the disposal sites. Any impacts that may arise due to transfer and haulage of waste may be controlled by worker health and safety procedures, which will apply to workers on all aspects of the project. The following therefore focuses on the waste disposal areas but the management measures apply across all project sites and activities.

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 83 -

Potential Health Impacts of MSW Disposal

Public health impacts from MSW disposal may include exposure to toxic chemicals through air, water and soil; exposure to infection and biological contaminants; stress related to odor, noise, vermin and visual amenity; risk of fires, explosions, subsidence, spills and accidents. In addition increased incidence of respiratory ailments can be caused by transport emissions and smoke; vermin attracted to the site (birds, rodents and insects) can act as disease vectors; and, the contamination drinking water by leachate can cause severe damage in a variety of ways depending on the nature of the contaminant.

Waste pickers face particular risks from direct contact with the waste, especially when, as is usually the case, they are not wearing protective clothing. The risks to the public and workers are much greater if hazardous waste is mixed with the MSW. Changes in transport intensities and routes may raise the risk of accidents and of harm to pedestrians.

In summary, the main impacts on public and worker health and safety associated with the project arise from the following:

• direct exposure to solid waste, particularly if hazardous waste is present in the MSW • contamination of potable water with leachate • exposure to landfill gas • vermin acting as disease vectors • risk of traffic accidents caused by increased numbers of vehicle movements.

Assessment and Management of Health and Safety Impacts

Traffic Hazard The main routes from Bethlehem city and Hebron city to the landfill do not pass through residential areas. The road is wide and well signed and project vehicles will not significantly increase the volume of traffic. Movement of vehicles along the main routes to the landfill site will have only minor impacts on public safety along the route.

A by-pass road will be built to take traffic past al-Menya, so that the refuse trucks will not affect the safety in the village. A potential short-cut route from Hebron City through the Wadi Siir road to the landfill site will have negative impacts on safety in Siir city and therefore only compactor trucks from Siir and Eshuyukih municipality will be allowed to use that route.

Hazardous Waste The impacts on public health and safety from hazardous waste will be limited by the development and enforcement of hazardous waste policy. In general hazardous waste from industry will not be accepted for disposal. Control measures at the transfer station and the landfill will ensure that such waste is not illicitly dumped. Municipal waste that may have hazardous components and construction waste will have to be delivered separately to the transfer and landfill sites and glass will be disposed in special collection containers.

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 84 -

Waste Separation and Handling Waste separation at the transfer station and landfill potentially has a negative impact on public health and safety because compacted waste is de-compacted to enable separation. However, the investment in a disposal container with sorting facilities for semi-manual separation will remove the risks and is considered to have a positive impact on public health and safety compared to the present situation.

Site Management Many of the health risks to workers and to the wider public from solid waste disposal can be greatly reduced or even completely eliminated by good operational practices at the landfill and transfer station sites. The measures incorporated into project design include:

• strict control over entry and exit to the site; • measurement documentation and inspection of incoming waste loads; • defined standard operating procedures for waste discharge and deposition; • control of vermin, insects and birds by compaction of deposited waste and application of cover materials in small, clearly-defined operating cells.

Particular attention will be paid to the health and safety of workers at the sites by:

• worker training in safe working methods and good hygiene practices; • the use of personal protective equipment, as required, when working on-site; • provision of first aid facilities; • regular health checks for personnel; • Emergency Response and Contingency Plans.

Waste Pickers The health risk to waste pickers from direct contact with wastes is acute due to their lack of protective gear and prolonged exposure to waste, smoke, dust and vermin. The children and young adults that frequent the site during school holidays are particularly vulnerable. The project will gradually eliminate these risks. Waste pickers will not be allowed unsupervised access to project sites. Manual separation of recyclables will still be allowed in the early phases of the project, but the personnel will have to be approved by site management and be appropriately equipped and trained. In addition all workers at the site will benefit from the reduction in smoke, vermin and risk that results from proper operation of SWM facilities.

Hygiene and Vermin The adoption of high standards for the disposal of MSW will limit the potential for the development of resident populations of vermin and pests. However, project proposals are not likely to be able to eradicate these populations in their entirety, and some will still be attracted to project sites. These pests will be combated by sanitary measures such as spraying with insecticides, distributing pesticide and rat poison, and immediate covering of waste fronts with cover materials.

Potential for Exposure to Explosion of Landfill Gas Landfill gas is a product of the degradation of waste materials under anaerobic conditions (i. e. in the absence of oxygen). With its high content of methane and toxic

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 85 -

and inflammable gases, the generation of landfill gas poses significant risks to human, animal and plant health and life. The most significant risk associated with landfill gas arises from its potential to form flammable mixtures with air. If it is allowed to accumulate in a confined space and there is a source of ignition present, an explosion may result. The risk is greatest where gas is allowed to build-up in confined spaces, such as within buildings or in collapsed void spaces within the deposited waste.

In an open area, landfill gas can give rise to ‘flash fires’. The critical concentrations limits within which a flammable gas will burn (or explode) are known as the ‘Lower Explosive Limit’ (LEL) and ‘Upper Explosive limit’ (UEL). For methane these are approximately 5% and 15% respectively although they are modified slightly by the presence of carbon dioxide. Carbon dioxide, the other major constituent of landfill gas has an adverse effect on respiration and is a hazard to health if it is present in concentrations in excess of 1.5%. In the open air, for example at the boundary of the landfill, such relatively high levels of gas normally do not occur because of the effects of dilution and dispersion. Landfill gas may also act as an asphyxiant (suffocating agent), by displacing air (oxygen), if it accumulates in a confined space.

Lower levels of gas concentration are considered to be indicative of gas migration from the site. For these situations, it is normal to stipulate two levels of gas concentration that trigger appropriate but different courses of action. The lower trigger level (threshold level) would identify the occurrence of a potential landfill gas problem. If concentrations exceed this level more frequent gas monitoring should be initiated. The higher trigger level (action level) would necessitate appropriate remedial action to control gas migration. The concentrations proposed for these levels are: • threshold level - 5% of LEL; and • action level - 20% of LEL.

In order to minimize the risks to human health from landfill gas, “passive” or “active” landfill gas control can be used at landfill sites, depending upon the volume of landfill gas generated. An active gas system is proposed for the project site in view of the relatively large quantities of organic waste that will be deposited. Vertical gas wells will be installed in the waste progressively as the landfill grows vertically towards final levels; any gas collected will be flared off using a mobile flare stack. The site containment measures proposed in the design are designed to minimize the risk of any gas migration off-site. However, it is essential that a program of landfill gas monitoring is carried out at regular periodic intervals during and after the working life of the site in order to assess the effectiveness of the gas control measures in place.

Should landfill gas be detected during routine site surveys, the method of gas control will be reviewed and, as necessary, the passive gas wells converted to an active gas abstraction system in which gas is sucked out of the landfill under a vacuum.

Whilst the impacts associated with landfill gas should be minimized by good site operational practices, there always remains a residual moderate potential for landfill gas impacts, particularly if site management is not of the highest standard. Accordingly, this impact is considered to be of moderate significance.

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 86 -

Summary of Impacts A summary of the significance of the potential health and safety impacts from the MSW disposal component of the project proposals is presented in Table 7.10.

Table 0.10: Summary of Potential Health and Safety Impacts

Potential Impact Mitigation/ Positive or Residual Management Negative Impact Proposed Direct exposure hazardous Yes - Slight material Contamination of potable water No - Slight with leachate (see hydrogeology) Exposure to landfill gas Yes - Slight Exposure to vermin acting as Yes - Slight disease vectors Risk of traffic accidents Yes - Slight

Summary of Mitigation Measures

Measures to mitigate potential health impacts of MSW disposal: • strict control over entry and exit to sites; • measurement documentation and inspection of incoming waste loads; • defined standard operating procedures for waste discharge and deposition; • control of vermin, insects and birds by compaction of deposited waste and application of cover materials in small, clearly-defined operating cells; • training in safe working methods and good hygiene practices; • the use of personal protective equipment, as required, when working on-site; • provision of first aid facilities; • regular health checks for personnel; • Emergency Response and Contingency Plans.

Measures to mitigate exposure to, or explosion of landfill gas • Vertical gas wells will be installed and pumped to collection points where it will be flared. • A program of landfill gas monitoring to assess the effectiveness of the gas control measures • Installation and maintenance of the gas collection and venting system by adequately trained and qualified staff

Measures to limit exposure to vermin. • Controlled access to the sites • Reduction of vermin by spraying with insecticides, distributing pesticide/raticide, and daily waste cover.

Measures to reduce risk of traffic accidents • control of the routes that drivers take

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 87 -

• upgrading and maintenance of access roads

Social and Socio-economic Impacts

Land Acquisition and Land Use

The Landfill Site There are three extended families (or family clans) in the Sa’ir municipality, Hebron Governorate, that own the land resources that are needed for the proposed Al-Menya sanitary landfill (see Figure 7.1). These owners wish to lease the land needed to the JSC-H&B. The landowners welcome the fact that the communities near the proposed landfill site will benefit from the landfill site through the creation of employment opportunities during the construction and operation of the site, and through the attraction of investors that are interested in the processing and marketing of recyclable waste. They will also put conditions in the lease contract that the site management is in accordance with international standards, since they want to prevent a replication of negative impacts that communities near the Yatta site had to experience until some years ago.

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 88 -

Figure 0.1 Ownership around the Proposed Landfill Site

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 89 -

The landfill site is on marginal agricultural land with no inhabitants. A shepherd from Siir City, recently moved to a derelict farmhouse about 800 meters from the proposed site. The landowners explained that they neither rented the land to farmers nor gave grazing rights to the shepherd and therefore there will be no requirement for resettlement or compensation.

A strip of land is also needed for a new site access road that will by-pass al-Menya village. The proposed road will connect the tarmac road between Siir road and Kisen village with the road that leads to the proposed landfill site. The new road will pass about 500 m through a rocky area, avoiding a nearby olive garden. Four families own land. Again, the landowners are willing to sell the land to the local government. They support the community leaders who want the by-pass road and acknowledge that the land value is low. Moreover, they also expect to benefit from the improved accessibility of their land resources.

All the landowners live in Sa’ir municipality about 10 km away and the land is dry and unproductive. None of these families actually live on the land and the information is based on a number of site visits with surveyors as well as about a dozen stakeholder consultations. Nevertheless, there are generally uncertainties with confirming land titles in the West Bank, especially when Area C is involved because the scope of land searches is more limited. The project proponent has therefore contracted a legal counsel to provide assistance in verifying land titles and in the acquisition process. This Counsel will review other official documentation verify ownership and confirm that no land disputes are associated with the land in question.

The Transfer Station A transfer station will be constructed in the southern industrial zone of Hebron City, a distance of around 25 km to the al-Menya landfill, to serve municipalities in the southern region of Hebron, the southern neighborhoods of Hebron City and the southern industrial zone of Hebron City. The land is completely owned by Hebron municipality with an area of about 1.8 ha. It is about 1,000 meters from the main road (Road 60) which connects all the major cities in the West Bank and runs close by the landfill. The area needed for the transfer station is about 0.4 ha.

The site is surrounded by factories and workshops. In addition, there are some residential buildings starting at a distance of around 130m away. The nearest factories, a few meters away from the site, include lathing workshops, plastics manufacturers, carpentry workshops, aluminum workshops, and leather manufacturers (tanneries). The surrounding land is privately owned, and apart from the aforementioned industrial, commercial and residential buildings, there are small areas that are vacant lots. No existing land users will be displaced. World Bank OP4.12 will not be relevant.

Loss of Arable and Grazing Land

The land needed for the landfill is subject to erratic rainfall and has shallow and rocky soils that prevent mechanization. It is of little use for agriculture. There is a local customary law in the Siir community that shepherd may graze their sheep on publicly

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 90 -

and privately owned land as long no agricultural crops are damaged. The shepherds cannot claim any rights for compensation if the owner or tenant changes the land use. The shepherds will lose some grazing land based on customary law but that same customary law does not give them any compensation rights. Nevertheless any impact will be evaluated by an independent assessor and compensated for (see Section 7.13.3).

Impacts on Local Social Structure

The Landfill Site The leaders of the al-Menya community support the construction of the regional landfill because they expect positive impacts on the community to outweigh the negative impacts. They expect that the transport infrastructure will improve in their community and that some unemployed young men will find employment, directly or indirectly, due to the presence of the landfill.

The village leaders considered uncontrolled scavenging like at the Yatta landfill site as a potential negative socio-economic impact. The local leaders fear that the waste- pickers will move to the al-Menya site after the closure of the Yatta site. They do not consider waste picking as a negative impact, but the unorganized and dangerous manner of waste separation and the involvement of child labor. Waste-pickers from Yatta, who own motorized means of transport, confirmed that they would attempt to continue waste picking at the new site. The assessed negative socio-economic impacts will develop if the leaders of the regional waste management system fail to develop a clear concept, administrative systems and infrastructure for waste picking at the new site.

The management of the regional landfill will strongly influence the socio-economic and cultural impacts that the landfill will have on the neighboring communities. If the management is sensitive towards the concerns of the community, and develops timely solutions for the anticipated concerns of the communities than minimal negative impacts are expected. Therefore the impact is assessed as neutral.

Impacts on Local Employment

The Landfill The contractors of the infrastructure of regional landfill will bring their qualified staff but will also recruit daily laborers for construction activities. Daily laborers will be recruited on the local market since those are cheapest.

The operational entity of the site needs technical and administrative staff. The junior staff members are commonly recruited from communities close to the location since that save on transport costs. Without a waste separation line the station will have about 10 staff members and therefore the investment has a positive impact on employment in a remote area. However the staff recruitment policies will determine whether the local communities will benefit or refuse workers that come from elsewhere.

Therefore the assessment is that the investment in the regional landfill will have a positive impact on local employment.

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 91 -

The Transfer Station The transfer station will employ a few staff members to manage and operate the station and to manage and operate the hauling trucks. Without a waste separation line the station will have about 5 staff members and therefore the investment has a very positive impact on employment. However, the staff recruitment policies will determine whether the local or neighboring communities will benefit or refuse workers that come from elsewhere. Therefore the assessment is that the investment in the transfer station will have a positive impact on local employment.

Impacts on Waste Pickers

The deterioration of economic conditions in Southern Hebron Governorate has pressed unemployed young men into waste picking at the Yatta landfill site. On an average summer day in July 2008 132 waste-pickers came to the site. 52% live in the neighboring communities and 48% in Yatta city (15 km from the site). About 32% of the waste-pickers are 21 years or older, 32 % are between 16 and 20 years, and 36% are younger than 16 years, as Table 7.11 shows.

The number of waste-pickers decreases to about 40 when the children and youths have to attend school. Adult waste-pickers from the neighboring communities and from Yatta city come daily for waste picking to the site, and during the weekends and school vacations their sons accompany them. Table 7.11 shows that 74% of the growing number of waste pickers are children and young men, who come from the poorest families in the communities near the landfill site. Therefore, child labor is a key issue.

Table 0.11: Waste-pickers active on Yatta landfill site by age and residential area

Area <16 years 16-20 years 21-30 years >31years Total

Neighboring 35 20 5 9 69 communities (74%) (47%) (21%) (50%) (52%) Yatta city 12 23 19 9 63 (26%) (53%) (79%) (50%) (48%) Total 47 (36%) 43 (32%) 24 (18) 18 (14%) 132 (100%) Source: Waste-pickers census conducted on 24th July 2008

The families that depend on waste picking for income will have to find an alternative after closure of the Yatta landfill site. Many of the adult waste-pickers from Yatta city and few from the neighboring communities own motorized means of transport and are mobile and it is their intention to go to the new landfill site or the transfer station. The formalization of waste separation and the introduction of entry passes will prevent children from entering these facilities.

For the poor and less mobile waste-pickers, employment at the new facilities is a less practicable option. These households have few resources outside a simple house and a donkey for transporting the picked waste from the landfill to the home yard. Profiles of such households showed that the young waste-pickers come from families with

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 92 -

many children (5 to 14). Where the father is unable to work and generate income, elder boys drop out of school to secure the income and enable the younger children to finish primary education. Fathers engaged in waste picking encourage their sons to assist them so that they can focus on purchasing metal and plastics from other waste- pickers.

For the poor waste-pickers families that cannot develop alternative sources of income a compensation scheme has been developed. The municipalities in Yatta district can obtain funding from the social safety net program for the poorest community members whose subsistence is threatened. The SWBSWMP will identify the most seriously affected households and arrange that these are admitted to the program for a period of two years through SWBSWMP funding. It is expected that especially the families whose children were involved on a permanent basis in waste picking will benefit from the compensation scheme. The estimated required budget for this social compensation scheme is US$ 20.000 (20 families a US$ 900 and US$ 2000 administrative costs).

Some families will, however, not be admitted because they have land or other resources that can be used for income generation. Others may prefer to receive access to soft loan programs for small commercial enterprises such as vegetable growing. Therefore both options need to be offered to the remaining families.

Some highly motivated adult waste separators can become involved in projects that aim for piloting at source waste separation and separated collection. These waste- pickers receive training in the collection and recycling of specific types of waste, like electronic equipment, clothes and furniture. After the training they can obtain soft loans through commercial banks for opening second-hand shops where recycled goods or spare parts can be sold.

Preferential treatment for employment opportunities is proposed as compensation for the risks the waste-pickers and communities face from the SWBSWMP. The waste- pickers have already many years experience in waste separation and recycling and therefore are valuable labor resource for public and private companies investing in waste separation. Moreover, these groups have been identified as the most seriously affected by the project. The waste-pickers from Yatta are self-employed and they will lose their source of income without receiving compensation. The communities near the transfer station(s) and landfill sites accepted the risks of negative impacts in the expectation of receiving benefits.

Waste-pickers form a social issue in the large-scale landfill site of Hebron governorate but not in the small-scale landfill sites in Bethlehem governorate.

Table 0.12: Expected enrollment capacities for waste-pickers households

Activities Compensations Beneficiaries

Adult waste separators Preferential treatment in selection of waste 10 from Yatta owning separators at transfer station for Southern households transport Hebron and regional landfill at Adult waste separators Preferential treatment in selection of staff 4 households

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 93 -

Activities Compensations Beneficiaries from communities near for the operational entity and the old landfill site contractors that will close and supervise the Yatta landfill site Adult waste separators *Training in waste recycling and loan 6 households interested in developing program for micro-enterprises that waste recycling micro- participate in the waste separation pilots enterprises Families with *Mini grant for baby green house to 20 children/juveniles that produce vegetables for local market households earn families living at *Admission to Social Safety Program for old landfill site poor families that fail to generated minimally required family income

Impacts on Culturally Significant Sites

Introduction From the published information the proposed landfill site is not considered to have specific recreational, historical or cultural significance. The past land uses of the site have been always related to grazing. Similarly, the transfer station site has been unused until being reclaimed for industrial use.

Survey In order to fully complete the cultural survey a further literature search was completed. The following literature was reviewed: • Endangered Cultural Heritage Sites in the West Bank Governorates, Emergency Natural Resources Protection Plan, MoPIC (1998); • Environmental Profile of the West Bank, Hebron District, ARIJ) • Map Cultural Heritage Sites, MoPIC and Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities (1997); and • West Bank and Gaza Solid Waste and Environment Management Project (SWEMP): Solid Waste Management Study, Vol. 3: Environmental Analysis of the Hebron/Yatta landfill site (1998).

Yatta and its neighboring areas were toured in 1998 by ERM and in 2008 by DHV and interviews were held with residents of Arab Az-Zuweidin and Deirat, and with the JSC-H&B.. The proposed sites were surveyed and interviews were held with waste-pickers at Yatta.

Results The reviewed literature and interviews confirmed, although there are many archeological sites in the Hebron area, no archeological materials had ever been found at or near the proposed sites. A survey of the general lay-out of the landfill area and a careful site search found no evidence of any cultural heritage. There are no current sites of worship in the immediate vicinity of the landfill or the transfer station sites. Nevertheless, the construction contractors will be instructed to ensure there are pre- excavation checks for any cultural or archaeological artifacts. In case of “Chance

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 94 -

Find” they will stop all works and inform the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities and resume only after securing proper clearances from the authorities.

Impacts of Induced Development

Because the project will bring infrastructure to the marginal area of the proposed landfill site, some existing industrial activities may move closer to the landfill from outside while some new industries may start to be established and this will allow economical growth and create jobs. Stone cutting and shaping enterprises are suffering from increasing pressure of residents in areas such as Beit Fajjar which is not far away from the site and this will help in reducing air pollution resulted from this industry inside urban areas. The landfill area's land price is much lower that urban areas and this may raise the land price, and attract investors. Recycling industries and traders in recyclable materials may also migrate to sites around the landfill and transfer station. As long as these are regulated by existing zoning laws the impacts will be generally moderately beneficial, in terms of jobs and local economy.

Table 0.13: Summary of Social and Socio-economic Impacts

Potential Impacts Mitigation/ Positive Residual Management or Impact Proposed Negative Impacts of Land Acquisition and on Yes - Slight Land Use Loss of Arable and Grazing Land Yes - Slight Impacts on Local Social Structure Yes - Slight Impacts on Local Employment No + Slight Impacts on Waste Pickers Yes + Significant Impacts on Cultural Heritage Yes - Slight Impacts of Induced Development No + Moderate

Summary of Mitigation Measures

Measures to Mitigate Land Acquisition and Land Use Impacts There are generally uncertainties with confirming private land titles in the West Bank. In relation to the land needed for the proposed site of the landfill and the access road, therefore, specialist legal expertise will be acquired to verify land titles and ownership and to confirm that no land disputes are associated with the land in question. In addition, an abbreviated Resettlement Plan will be implemented in order to ensure a fair economic compensation for the affected landowners through a consultative and mutually agreeable process.

The Abbreviated Resettlement Plan covers the following elements: • A census survey of affected persons and valuation of assets; • Description of compensation and other resettlement assistance to be provided; • Institutional arrangements and consultations with affected people about acceptable alternatives; • Existing legal and policy framework for land acquisition;

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 95 -

• Institutional responsibility for implementation and procedures for grievance redress; • Arrangements for monitoring and implementation; and • A timetable and budget.

Measures to reduce loss of arable and grazing land

Measures to reduce impacts on local social structure The management of the project sites will be sensitive towards the concerns of surrounding communities and land users by:

• Enforcing planning controls and implementing the abbreviated Resettlement Plans to ensure that an unregulated community of waste traders and pickers does not develop around the sites • Operating an effective complaints management system

Measures to Mitigate Impacts on Waste Pickers and Herdsmen The main risk arising from shutting the Yatta dump site is the loss of income of the poorest households in the community. At the new landfill site a few herdsmen may lose access to the free grazing available on the site. An abbreviated Resettlement Action Plan has been prepared for these groups. Several mitigation actions are proposed, to be assessed before the new landfill is completed by a consultant and then implemented by the JSC-H&B. The actions include the following.

• Formalize waste picking/separating through a pilot recycling plant at the landfill • Give current waste pickers preferential treatment for hiring under the formalized system. • Provide appropriate training/skills development for both waste pickers and the women in their households in the pilot recycling scheme • Include eligible families, especially those with working children, in the DEEP, a national program that helps the poorest households establish businesses by making small soft loans available. • Include eligible households in the national Social Safety Net Program, implemented through the Ministry of Social Affairs.

In addition, a database of the current waste pickers will be developed to ensure that they are included in the proposed interventions. A Social /Community Outreach specialist will be hired for a period of at least two years to ensure that the above actions are implemented.

Measures to reduce impacts on cultural heritage • Ensure pre-excavation check for any cultural or archaeological artifacts • In case of “Chance Find” stop all works and inform the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities • Resume only after securing proper clearances from the authorities

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 96 -

Need for Awareness Raising and Capacity Development Introduction

Addressing the major social concerns depends in large part on raising public awareness of the issues and changing behavior in waste production and separation. The behavior and capacities of the public sector in managing, supervising and monitoring project activities also needs to be enhanced.

Awareness Raising

Waste separation requires a change of attitude of the leaders of households, services and enterprises. The leaders of households, services and enterprises have to acknowledge that it is their responsibility to care for sustainable and environment friendly development. This responsibility starts with the production and separation of solid waste as a public service for reducing the costs for waste collection and disposal for all stakeholders. The beneficiaries of the municipal waste management system also have to pay at a level that allows the public sector to recover the cost of providing a modern, well regulated and efficient service.

Gender Issues

Socio-cultural value systems prevent the involvement of female workers in the formal and informal waste management system and at the landfill site in Yatta, only young boys and young and adult men were engaged in waste picking. However, in the informal recycling systems female members of the waste-pickers’ households play a less visible but important role. Any initiative to improve the recycling of the ‘female’ goods should have these invisible female recyclers as target group.

Women are in the household predominantly responsible for the separation, storage and disposal of the household waste. Any attempt to introduce at source waste separation requires a change of behavior of the waste producers and of the waste management system. Behavioral changes at household level should start with awareness raising activities of sustainable development. These activities should take children and their mothers as the prime target group since they have a major influence on waste separation, storage and disposal at household level. The waste management system should organize collection of the separated waste at household and enterprise level. The concerns of female leaders regarding the storage and collection of separated waste need to be considered and therefore the representation of women organizations in a Steering Committee of a pilot project needs to be considered.

From a gender perspective the following recommendations are given concerning public awareness campaign: a. Representatives of community-based women organizations should be involved in the governance structure of waste separation pilot projects to incorporate women concerns on storage and disposal at source separated waste b. Children and their mothers should become the main focus of environmental awareness activities because of their concerns about a healthy and sustainable living habitat

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 97 -

c. Training initiatives for waste recycling of traditional women goods should take the female members of the waste-pickers’ households as target group in southern West Bank.

Management and Labor Issues

Waste separation needs to take place at the transfer and regional landfill site in the short and medium term. In the long term it is expected that at-source waste separation will gradually replace waste separation at the regional SWM facilities. There is recommended to make public investments in facilities for safe and efficient semi- manual waste separation at the transfer station and the regional landfill site. The management and labor arrangements for waste separation need to give priority to employment generation rather than profit maximization. The local authorities and waste-pickers preferred some smaller transfer stations above one large one in Hebron Municipality. The proposed designs of the transfer station(s) and landfill site needs to be adjusted to the request for facilities for safe semi-manual waste separation.

Communities near the proposed SWM facilities and waste-pickers at the Yatta landfill site were identified as the main risks for the SWBSWMP. The communities because of protest against the planned and latter operated facility because the costs-benefits relation developed differently than expected. The self-employed waste-pickers are expected to oppose losing their income source and try to enter the new facilities through illegal means. Both stakeholders categories need to obtain a preferential treatment when the public sector or sub-contracted private sector organizations involved in SWBSWMP recruited staff or waste separators for the facilities.

Child labor in waste separation at the transfer stations and new regional landfill site needs to be prevented on social grounds. Waste separation needs to be upgraded in a formal profession and the involved workers need to receive training in dealing with waste, in particular hazardous wastes. Only adult waste separators that pass the exams will be admitted to the waste separation facilities on the basis of transparent and fair conditions. This will form an opportunity for adult waste-pickers with motorized means of transport.

Impacts Associated With Proposed Formal Waste Recycling

Introduction

Waste is currently recycled informally at the existing dump site at Yatta by collaboration between small scale traders who buy plastics, metal etc, for resale to recycling enterprises and waste pickers operating in loose associations, mainly family groups. This will be terminated when the new landfill becomes operational. Furthermore, waste separation and recycling at the new site may be transformed by proposals currently under development. The separation and reuse of recyclable waste as a formal commercial activity has been proposed as an additional project component by a wide alliance of stakeholders at national and regional level. Concrete concepts and designs have not been presented in the project documents, nor therefore in the project description that forms Section 3 of this ESIA report. Potential impacts and mitigation measures based on a generic understanding of the proposals are outlined in this Section.

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 98 -

Proposals for Waste Separation and Recycling

The basic ideas are:

• Construction of a simple infrastructure for safe and efficient semi-manual separation of recyclable waste that compactors trucks deposit at the transfer station and landfill site, and

• Piloting of at source separation in eight purposely selected urban and rural communities.

Both measures require an innovative public-private sector partnership for the design and management of the project component. The public sector is expected to invest in the required infrastructure for separation and storage at the proposed sites, and the private sector in the infrastructure for collecting the separate waste, recycling and marketing. The required technical and organizational concepts still need to develop in detail through a Steering Committee that has representatives of the public, private and voluntary sector organizations. However, a preliminary assessment of potential social impacts can already be made on the basis of the basic concept.

Potential Impacts of Proposed Waste Separation Schemes

Socio-economic Impacts Reduction of the waste volumes and reuse of recyclable waste at the transfer station (s) will reduce the transport costs and contribute to sustainable socio-economic development at local and regional level. The potential socio-economic impact of waste separation and recycling is assessed as positive and essential for sustainable development.

Impact on local employment Waste separation and recycling presently currently takes place in the informal waste management system. The proposed project component will have a positive impact on local employment through the development of partnership between the formal public and informal private sector waste management systems. If no centralized organization structures are introduced for waste separation and recycling, then the project will have a positive impact on local employment.

Impact on public health and safety Waste separation at source is expected to have no negative impact on public health and safety in the households if the storage facilities and collection schedules for separated waste consider public health risks. This means that hazardous and construction waste will have to be delivered separately at the transfer and landfill site and glass will be disposed in special collection containers. Waste separation at the transfer and landfill potentially has a negative impact on public health and safety because compacted waste is de-compacted to enable separation. However, the investment in a disposal container with sorting facilities for semi manual separation is considered to have a positive impact on public health and safety compared to the present situation.

Impact on local employment

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 99 -

Waste separation and recycling presently currently takes place in the informal waste management system. The proposed project component will have a positive impact on local employment through the development of partnership between the formal public and informal private sector waste management systems. If no centralized organization structures are introduced for waste separation and recycling, then the project will have a positive impact on local employment.

Potential aesthetic impacts The storage of separated waste usually has negative visual impacts because waste traders have commonly locate their storage and processing facilities close to the source (transfer or landfill). It is expected that the transfer station and regional landfill site will attract private companies to invest in storage and recycling facilities. If this investment is designed in accordance with the spatial plans and construction norms, there will be no aesthetic impacts.

Table 0.1 Summary of Potential Impacts from Separation and Recycling

Potential Impacts Mitigation/ Positive Residual Management or Impact Proposed Negative Potential socio-economic and cultural impacts No + Slight Impacts on public health and safety Yes - Slight Impact on local employment No + Slight Aesthetic impacts No - Slight

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 100 -

The Environmental and Social Management Plan Introduction

The ESMP constitutes a critical link between the management and mitigation measures specified in this report and the proper implementation and management of the measures during the construction and operation of the project. It summarizes the anticipated environmental and social impacts and provides details on the measures responsibilities and scheduling to mitigate these impacts; the costs of mitigation; and, the ways in which implementation and effectiveness of the measures will be monitored and supervised.

Mostly, especially in comparison with current conditions, the project will have positive impacts on the quality of peoples’ lives. Consistent with the scope of the project and the available resources, measures have been proposed that maximize these benefits. The SWBSWMP is basically an environmental improvement project. From first planning its design has incorporated a significant number of measures directed specifically towards environmental protection and the minimization and/or mitigation of potential environmental impacts. However, there is still potential for some negative impacts due to the nature of project sites or the risk that design features will not be implemented. These have generally been addressed in three ways as follows.

• Additional prevention or abatement measures have been incorporated into the design of the facilities or into the specifications of equipment. • Operating and management procedures will be enforced that specify how staff will carry out their duties at project sites. • Capacity development and administrative measures have been developed to ensure the responsible institutions have the legal, administrative and human resources necessary to fulfill their functions.

Structure of the ESMP

The measures required by the ESMP will be incorporated in a series of documents that will be linked through the ESPM and the associated Monitoring Plan. These documents are as follows.

• Relevant provisions of the ESMP will be incorporated into the Contract Documents prepared for firms bidding to work on major project construction activities (i.e. the construction of the landfill, the construction of the transfer station, and the closure of the Yatta site) forming a binding contractual obligation that specifies not just design features but, where the ESMP so requires, management of workers, vehicles, machinery, operating times, methods of working, complaints management etc.

• Relevant provisions of the ESMP will also be incorporated into the operational contracts (i.e. the operation of the landfill, the operation of the transfer station, and the operation of the collection vehicles). These binding contractual obligations will specify, where the ESMP so requires, site management and

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 101 -

maintenance routines, employment practices, vehicle routes, operating times, methods of working, complaints management etc.

• Relevant provisions of the ESMP will also be incorporated into the agreement of the JSC-H&B to manage the project. This will include a monitoring plan for noise, dust, and water. A supervision plan to check the progress and effectiveness of the environmental and social mitigation measures. Arrangements to implement the provisions of the Abbreviated Resettlement Action Plans, and provisions to implement a training program in environmental management, for national and local government officials.

It will be the responsibility of the project proponent to prepare these documents, based on the provisions of the ESMP. Accordingly, the EMP contained herein identifies:

• all key mitigation measures required for successful project implementation (whether or not these are already included in the project design); • any associated compliance monitoring recommended to ensure successful implementation of the recommended mitigation measures; • the environmental monitoring program recommended to assess and evaluate the ongoing environmental impacts of project development; and • the institutional arrangements and responsibilities by each party for execution of the mitigation measures and for compliance and environmental monitoring.

The landfill project proposals are at the conceptual design stage and detailed design of the facility is required prior to project development. As a consequence the ESMP ‘provided below outlines the key components of such a plan for the landfill development, rather than dealing specifically with detailed design of the landfill site.

Once the detailed design has been commissioned and developed it will be necessary for the project proponent to elaborate the guidance provided here into detailed procedures. They can then prepare the documents to ensure that the required investments are made and the appropriate controls are in place throughout project construction, operations and after-care.

Cost Estimate for Implementing the ESMP and ARAP: The cost associated with implementing the ESMP is as follows:

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 102 -

Unit Rate Cost Item description Quantity No (USD) (USD) 1. Recruit Specialized Environment Consulting Firm to a) 70,000/ye 5 350,000 supervise and report on compliance with the ESMP, b) to ar monitor and test water and wastewater quality, c) carryout training programs aimed at building capacity of EQA, JSC- H&B staff, participating municipalities’ SWM staff, and d) study tours to SWM schemes. 2. Workshops and capacity building for waste pickers on 30,000 issues such as management, separation, recycling and marketing of waste. 3. Environmental awareness/education programs for local 20,000 communities located within 5 km of the project area. Preparation of awareness material (videos, brochures, etc.). TOTAL 400,000 The cost associated with implementing the ARAPs is as follows: i) The budget related to this ARAP for Land Owners can be summarized as follows (in US$):

Al-Menya Compensation Parameter Costs (US$)*

Land Acquisition (230 dunums @US$8,500 per dunum**) 1,955,000

Land Lease arrangement (annual lease @$300/dunum) for 20 1,380,000 years i) The budget related to this ARAP for Waste Pickers and Herdsmen can be summarized as follows (in US$):

Yatta Al-Menya Total Compensation Parameter Costs Costs (US$)* Costs (US$) (US$)

Waste pickers livelihood support 0 72,000 72,0001

Compensation Herdsmen 2,500 2,500 1 Of this figure, US$30,000 already included in the ESMP above.

A summary of different environmental and social impacts (those reported in the previous chapters) with their mitigation is introduced in Table 8.1.

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 103 -

al-Menya Landfill ESIA April 2009, version 4 - 104 -

Environmental and Social Management Plan A: Mitigation

Potential Proposed Mitigation Institutional Cost Comments Environmental Measures Responsibilities Estimates and Social (see notes for details) Area Affected Impacts Construction Phase Dust and emissions Construction code of Contractor (in Included in from construction practice accordance with project costs activities contractual Air Quality (See Notes:1) obligation)

JSC-H&B contract supervisor Change in Construction code of Contractor (in Included in landscape character practice accordance with project costs from site contractual Aesthetic construction (See Notes:2) obligation)

JSC-H&B contract supervisor Noise arising from Construction code of Contractor (in Included in construction of the practice accordance with project costs landfill and transfer contractual Noise station (See Notes:3) obligation)

JSC-H&B contract supervisor

al-Menya Landfill ESIA Error! Reference source not found., version 4 - 105 -

Potential Proposed Mitigation Institutional Cost Comments Environmental Measures Responsibilities Estimates and Social (see notes for details) Area Affected Impacts Operation and Maintenance Phase Odor impacts from Landfill design Contractor (in Included in site activities accordance with project costs Landfill site operations contractual manual obligation)

Waste collection Air Quality company operation manual

Transfer station operation manual

(See Notes:4) Dust generated Landfill site operations Contractor (in Included in from on-site vehicle manual accordance with project costs movements and contractual placement of waste (See Notes:5) obligation) and cover material

Vehicle exhaust Landfill site operations Contractor (in Included in emissions on-site manual accordance with project costs contractual (See Notes:6) obligation)

al-Menya Landfill ESIA Error! Reference source not found., version 4 - 106 -

Potential Proposed Mitigation Institutional Cost Comments Environmental Measures Responsibilities Estimates and Social (see notes for details) Area Affected Impacts Effects from Landfill design Contractor (in Included in emission of accordance with project costs greenhouse gases (See Notes:7) contractual obligation)

Improved air Project Component 2 JSC-H&B Included in quality on cessation design project costs of waste burning (See Notes: 8)

Landfill site Contractor (in Included in operations manual accordance with project costs contractual Operational noise (See Notes:9) obligation)

Noise Waste collection Contractor (in Included in company operation accordance with project costs manual contractual Noise from Vehicle obligation) Movement (See Notes:10)

al-Menya Landfill ESIA Error! Reference source not found., version 4 - 107 -

Potential Proposed Mitigation Institutional Cost Comments Environmental Measures Responsibilities Estimates and Social (see notes for details) Area Affected Impacts Effects of site Landfill design Contractor (in Included in operations upon accordance with project costs visual amenity Landfill site operations contractual manual obligation)

(See Notes:11) Improvement in Project Component 2 JSC-H&B Included in Aesthetic visual amenity design project costs upon closure of the existing landfill (See Notes:12)

Permanent change Landfill design JSC-H&B Included in in landscape upon project costs site restoration (See Notes: 13)

al-Menya Landfill ESIA Error! Reference source not found., version 4 - 108 -

Potential Proposed Mitigation Institutional Cost Comments Environmental Measures Responsibilities Estimates and Social (see notes for details) Area Affected Impacts Increased traffic Landfill design Contractor (in Included in loading and traffic accordance with project costs congestion Landfill site operations contractual manual obligation)

Waste collection Roads and Traffic company operation manual

Transfer station operation manual

(See Notes:14) Air quality impacts Waste collection Contractor (in Included in from vehicle company operation accordance with project costs emissions manual contractual obligation) (See Notes:10) Traffic noise Waste collection Contractor (in Included in company operation accordance with project costs manual contractual obligation) (See Notes:10)

al-Menya Landfill ESIA Error! Reference source not found., version 4 - 109 -

Potential Proposed Mitigation Institutional Cost Comments Environmental Measures Responsibilities Estimates and Social (see notes for details) Area Affected Impacts Littering and Waste collection Contractor (in Included in cleanliness during company operation accordance with project costs waste transit manual contractual obligation) (See Notes:15) Impacts from Landfill design JSC-H&B Included in seismic activity project costs (See Notes:16) Risks from cavities Landfill construction Contractor (in Included in in the limestone contract accordance with project costs underlying the site contractual Geology and Soils (See Notes:17) obligation)

Impacts at the off- Landfill site operations Contractor (in Included in site sources of manual accordance with project costs construction contractual materials (See Notes:18) obligation)

Contamination of Landfill design JSC-H&B Included in water resources project costs Hydrogeology, from project Landfill site operations Contractor (in Hydrology, and Water leachate emissions manual accordance with Quality contractual obligation) (See Notes:19)

al-Menya Landfill ESIA Error! Reference source not found., version 4 - 110 -

Potential Proposed Mitigation Institutional Cost Comments Environmental Measures Responsibilities Estimates and Social (see notes for details) Area Affected Impacts Cessation of Project Component 2 JSC-H&B Included in contamination of design project costs water resources from existing (See Notes:20) disposal sites

Alteration of Landfill design JSC-H&B Included in surface water project costs regime (See Notes:21) Contamination of Landfill design Contractor (in Included in water resources by accordance with project costs fuel spillage Landfill site operations contractual manual obligation)

(See Notes:22) Extension of Landfill design JSC-H&B Included in habitats (buffer project costs Flora and Fauna zones) (See Notes:23) Creation of new Landfill design JSC-H&B Included in habitats (post- project costs restoration) (See Notes:24)

al-Menya Landfill ESIA Error! Reference source not found., version 4 - 111 -

Potential Proposed Mitigation Institutional Cost Comments Environmental Measures Responsibilities Estimates and Social (see notes for details) Area Affected Impacts Domestic animals Landfill design Contractor (in Included in and livestock accordance with project costs Landfill site operations contractual manual obligation)

(See Notes:25)

Direct exposure to Landfill site operations Contractor (in Included in hazardous material manual accordance with project costs contractual Public health and obligation) safety Transfer station operation manual

(See Notes:26)

al-Menya Landfill ESIA Error! Reference source not found., version 4 - 112 -

Potential Proposed Mitigation Institutional Cost Comments Environmental Measures Responsibilities Estimates and Social (see notes for details) Area Affected Impacts Contamination of Landfill design JSC-H&B Included in potable water with project costs leachate Landfill site operations Contractor (in manual accordance with contractual Project Component 2 obligation) design

(See Notes:19 & 20) Exposure to landfill Landfill design Contractor (in Included in gas accordance with project costs Landfill site operations contractual manual obligation)

(See Notes:27) Exposure to vermin Landfill site operations Contractor (in Included in acting as disease manual accordance with project costs vectors contractual obligation) (See Notes:28)

al-Menya Landfill ESIA Error! Reference source not found., version 4 - 113 -

Potential Proposed Mitigation Institutional Cost Comments Environmental Measures Responsibilities Estimates and Social (see notes for details) Area Affected Impacts Risk of traffic Landfill design Contractor (in Included in accidents accordance with project costs Landfill site operations contractual manual obligation)

Waste collection company operation manual

Transfer station operation manual

(See Notes:29) Impacts of Land Abbreviated JSC-H&B $2.0 million Acquisition and on Resettlement Plan has been Social and socio- Land Use (Landowners) included in economic project costs (See Notes:30) for land acquisition

al-Menya Landfill ESIA Error! Reference source not found., version 4 - 114 -

Potential Proposed Mitigation Institutional Cost Comments Environmental Measures Responsibilities Estimates and Social (see notes for details) Area Affected Impacts Loss of Grazing Abbreviated JSC-H&B NIS 10,000 More studies Land Resettlement Plan has been are needed to (Waste pickers and allocated for determine the Herdsmen) waste pickers need for and herdsmen. compensation (See Notes: 32) This may be used for feed. Further studies to determine the best use of funds are underway. Impacts on Local Covenant with JSC- JSC-H&B $350,000 has Social Structure H&B been provided for, inter alia, (See Notes:31) training programs for EQA, JSC- H&B and participating municipalities’ SWM staff

al-Menya Landfill ESIA Error! Reference source not found., version 4 - 115 -

Potential Proposed Mitigation Institutional Cost Comments Environmental Measures Responsibilities Estimates and Social (see notes for details) Area Affected Impacts Impacts on Waste Abbreviated JSC-H&B $150,000, has Pickers Resettlement Plan $150,000 for a been set aside (Waste pickers and pilot recycling for studies on Herdsmen) and how best to composting achieve this (See Notes: 32) facility

$30,000 for workshops and capacity building Impacts on Cultural Construction code of Contractor (in Included in Heritage practice accordance with project costs contractual (See Notes:33) obligation)

N M

A

M

al-Menya Landfill ESIA Error! Reference source not found., version 4 - 116 -

P B

M

E •

• NSR

• NSR

• NSR

•

•

•

M

S

T I

M

•

al-Menya Landfill ESIA Error! Reference source not found., version 4 - 117 -

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

M

A

M

A T C T

M

I

M

al-Menya Landfill ESIA Error! Reference source not found., version 4 - 118 -

•

• T

•

M

A

M

A S T T S

M

C N T

M

T M

• A M

al-Menya Landfill ESIA Error! Reference source not found., version 4 - 119 -

• T E M A E R

• T

• RCV

M

W RCV

M

• L

• G

M

• S

• T

• L

• P

M

al-Menya Landfill ESIA Error! Reference source not found., version 4 - 120 -

• S

• A

G

T A

• HDPE

•

•

•

•

M

R •

•

•

al-Menya Landfill ESIA Error! Reference source not found., version 4 - 121 -

•

•

M M

T T

M

•

•

•

•

M P T T

M

al-Menya Landfill ESIA Error! Reference source not found., version 4 - 122 -

T

M • P • P

M MSW • •

• • •

• • •

• E R C P

M • V

• A

al-Menya Landfill ESIA Error! Reference source not found., version 4 - 123 -

• I

M • C

• R

M •

•

M M L A L U I T W B I

I R P

T A R P • A

• D • I • E

• I • A

al-Menya Landfill ESIA Error! Reference source not found., version 4 - 124 -

• A

M T

• E R P

• O

M M I W P H T Y A A R A P S JSC H B T

• F

• G • P • I DEEP

• I S S N P M S A

I A S C O

M

al-Menya Landfill ESIA Error! Reference source not found., version 4 - 125 -

• E • I C F M T A • R

al-Menya Landfill ESIA Error! Reference source not found., version 4 - 126 -

Environmental and Social Management Plan B: Monitoring

Proposed Parameters Location Measurements Frequency Responsibilities Cost Mitigation To be (incl. methods & of Measurement (incl. review and (equipment Measure Monitored equipment) reporting) & individuals)

Construction Phase Construction Dust Landfill Visual inspection Site operator Included in code of practice site operating contract Operation and Maintenance Phase Landfill design Leachate levels Landfill Depth Site operator Included in within each site operating sub-area of the contract landfill Landfill design Landfill Gas Landfill Methane gas once a year Site operator Included in site analysis operating contract Landfill design Leachate Landfill Water quality once a year Site operator Included in analysis site parameters (SS, operating COD) contract

al-Menya Landfill ESIA Error! Reference source not found., version 4 - 127 -

Landfill site Inspection of Landfill Visual inspection daily Site operator Included in operations all roads in the site operating manual landfill area contract and of the fence during filling process

Landfill site Inspection of Landfill Visual inspection weekly Site operator Included in operations all roads in the site operating manual landfill area, contract the fence and the recultivated areas after closing time

Closure and Aftercare Phase Landfill design landfill gas Landfill Methane gas Once a year Site operator Included in site analysis operating contract Landfill design Leakage from Landfill Visual inspection of Once a year Site operator Included in any of the site leachate monitoring operating containment manholes contract barriers Total Cost for Included in All Phases operating contract

al-Menya Landfill ESIA Error! Reference source not found., version 4 - 128 -

Environmental and Social Management Plan C: Institutional Strengthening and Training for Implementation

Institutional Position(s) Scheduling Responsibilities Cost Strengthening Activity (Institutions, PIUs, Estimates contractors, construction supervision consultants) Mitigation

Development and Consultant Immediately JSC-H&B Provided in implementation of the project Abbreviated budget Resettlement Action Plans

$35,000 ( 50 % of the Preparation of manuals 1st year of the and guidelines TA consultancy contract) Monitoring During JSC-H&B $35,000 ( 50 % of the nd Landfill operator construction of 2 year of the first cell the TA JSC-H&B consultancy Participating contract) municipalities’ SWM staff II Training Activity Participants Types of Content (modules, Scheduling Cost Training etc.) Estimates

al-Menya Landfill ESIA Error! Reference source not found., version 4 - 129 -

EMP Implementation, Learning-by- Operating a During $20,000 Re-design, Conflict EQA, JSC-H&B and doing sanitary landfill construction of Resolution, etc. participating Workshops the first cell municipalities’ SWM staff Environmental Contractors Learning-by- Environmental and During $20,000 Processes, Methods & doing social management construction of Equipment the first cell Environmental Policies EQA, JSC-H&B and Learning-by- Preparing First 2 years $20,000 & Programs participating doing environmental of construction municipalities’ SWM bylaws staff Visits to demonstration sites

al-Menya Landfill ESIA Error! Reference source not found., version 4 - 130 -

Environmental Management Plan D Scheduling and Reporting

al-Menya Landfill ESIA Error! Reference source not found., version 4 - 131 -

Year 1 Year 2 Year 3 Subsequent years (until year 25) Activity Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 Mitigation Measures a. - Landfill design b. Landfill site operations manual c. Project Component 2 design d. Waste collection company operation manual e. Transfer station operation manual f. Abbreviated Resettlement Plan (Landowners) g. Abbreviated Resettlement Plan (Waste pickers and Herdsmen)

Monitoring a. Dust

al-Menya Landfill ESIA Error! Reference source not found., version 4 - 132 -

Year 1 Year 2 Year 3 Subsequent years (until year 25) b. Leachate levels within each sub-area of the landfill c. Landfill Gas d. Leachate analysis e. Inspection of roads and fence during filling f. Inspection of roads and fence during after closing time g. Landfill gas during closure and aftercare phase h. Leakage from containment barriers during closure and aftercare phase

Institutional Strengthening a. Development and implementation of the Abbreviated

al-Menya Landfill ESIA Error! Reference source not found., version 4 - 133 -

Year 1 Year 2 Year 3 Subsequent years (until year 25) Resettlement Action Plans b. Preparation of manuals and guidelines

Training a. Operating a sanitary landfill b. Environmental and social management c. Preparing environmental bylaws

al-Menya Landfill ESIA Error! Reference source not found., version 4 - 134 -

Implementation arrangements

The implementation responsibility of this Project will be with the JSC-H&B with close cooperation and coordination with MoLG and the EQA.

A Technical Operations Unit (TOU) acting as the executive arm of the JSC-H&B will be responsible for all contracting, monitoring, reporting and supervision of works throughout project life. The TOU will be aided by specialized individual and consulting firms to carry out the various activities including the implementation of relevant items in the EMP. Similarly, the EQA will carry out its responsibilities as delineated by the Palestinian Environmental Law.

This Project would further develop such capacity by financing (a) additional training to specific operational staff at the JSC-H&B-TOU, EQA and participating municipalities, (b) the recruitment of a specialized environment consulting firm who would work closely with the JSC-H&B-TOU team and would be responsible for reviewing, advising and reporting on environmental issues throughout the project life. The environmental firm will also assist the project municipalities to develop their capacities for better solid waste management service delivery.

al-Menya Landfill ESIA Error! Reference source not found., version 4 - 135 -

CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

Conclusions It is concluded that the key-negative impacts of the proposed landfill development are considered to be of ’moderate’ significance.

It is concluded that the key potential negative impacts identified in this environmental analysis can be minimized in the sanitary landfill design and through good operational practice and all of the risks identified above can be reduced to acceptable levels. For example:

¾The conceptual site design takes into account the potential impact of contamination of water resources as a result of leachate emissions. A high standard of leachate containment and management is a fundamental aspect of the proposed site design; ¾the risk of exposure to/explosion of landfill gas is minimized through site design which should include passive venting and landfill gas monitoring. ¾the potential impact from noise, dust and odor at the site can be minimized through site design and good operational practice which should be strictly enforced; ¾litter impacts can be greatly minimized by mitigation measures which include the operation of small waste cells and litter screens, as necessary.

As most of the potential impacts are such that they will be felt by the local community in the vicinity of the site it is considered necessary that further public consultation and discussion be carried out to involve them in the project implementation process. The benefits of this include:

¾To further explain the operational aspects of sanitary landfilling and the advantages this method of waste disposal will have on environment. This should focus on the improvements to waste disposal that will be introduced (such as the elimination of burning, covering of waste, use of litter screens etc.); ¾to help determine the community’s perspective on possible mitigation measures; and ¾to explain to the residents the likely method of on-going liaison between themselves and the authority responsible for waste disposal at the new landfill site.

The need for good environmental management throughout the operational and ’after- care’ period is essential, and assuming this can be achieved and the local community are further consulted with respect to the site construction and operation, these issues are not considered to be prohibitive to the proposed development.

A main advantageous impact of the MSWM project is the closure of the randomly distributed unsanitary LF’s that created environmental and social nuisance for a long time. The closure of Yatta LF is an environmental solution of a pollution problem that is first priority. The alternative sanitary proposed LF is carefully selected and

al-Menya Landfill ESIA Error! Reference source not found., version 4 - 136 -

analyzed that is: Which is the most appropriate site to be used as a LF from environmental and socioeconomic points of view? Centralization of the waste disposal is better from environmental and risks points of view to deal with. This means that it’s easier to handle and treat waste in one site rather than dealing with several micro-sites.

The investigation of al-Menya site revealed that the site is with minimal social drawbacks and the affected sector of the population is minor. The site is mostly bounded by hilly areas from two directions with no inhabitants existing in its wind blowing direction. The site’s geological and hydrological features were tested and this is revealed by making boreholes drilling. The site topsoil is composed of approximately 40% clay while the remained part is composed of a rocky area composed mostly of massive and bedded limestone. The groundwater depth in the site is exceeding 200 m.

Recommendations

There is a variety of ownership and organizational structures that is compatible with regionalizing waste management around a central/regional landfill. However all institutional / organizational models require a strong will for cooperation among municipalities participating in the regional system which is to be legally set out, determination to reform or close down own municipal dump sites, as well as capabilities to negotiate and contract out WM services to the private sector.

In order to stimulate the regionalization of waste management services, the following issues will have to be addressed at both national and local levels: o To define proper WM standards (for disposal – at national and for collection at local level); o To ensure closure of incompliant municipal landfills; o To set proper contracting and permitting rules (at national level) and to create a competitive market for WM services (at local/regional level); o To set appropriate cost recovery mechanisms and introduce financial economic instruments (at national/municipal level); o To improve efficiency and cost recovery rate (at local level); and o To initiate and/or improve enforcement (at national and local levels).

It can be remarked that a ‘regional’ waste management entity, or an operational “Inter Municipal Public Enterprise”, in this case the High Hebron-Bethlehem JSC, supported by all participating municipalities on the long run may be in charge of the following activities: o Preparing / updating of waste management plans at regional and municipal levels. o Preparing amendments to existing municipal waste management regulations, as necessary for the development of a regional waste management system. o Owning all regional waste management assets, including old dump sites. o Obtaining required permits for waste management facilities. o Establishing tariffs and collecting the fees for the waste management services. o Preparing competitive tender documentation for the provision of waste management facilities and services (including, eventually, municipal waste collection).

al-Menya Landfill ESIA Error! Reference source not found., version 4 - 137 -

o Awarding contracts / franchises to appropriately experienced private sector companies for the provision of waste management facilities and services. o Monitoring and controlling the performance of contractors / franchisees to ensure that the services are provided to the appropriate quality and in accordance with contract / franchise conditions. o Developing and implementing a public awareness and communications campaign.

Initially the regional SWM entity would have responsibility for ensuring the provision and operation of all regional waste management facilities, including landfill sites and transfer stations. These tasks could be executed by own staff / operators, or (partially) to be contracted out to private sector organizations by competitive tender.

Several possible organizational structures of the operation company are available. The most desired option for each region may be decided by the municipalities – founders and the international donors. Basic precondition to have such institutional arrangements in place will be the setting of rules for contracting and permitting of WM operators.

al-Menya Landfill ESIA Error! Reference source not found., version 4 - 138 -

al-Menya Landfill ESIA Error! Reference source not found., version 4 - 139 -