IAIA09 - Theme Forums

  • TF1.1 Safeguarding Community Well-Being and Health

    • Convenor(s): Martin Birley, BirleyHIA

      This theme forum explores the use of health impact assessment as a tool for safeguarding community well-being. The diverse presentations explore the theme from the perspectives of the community and the private sector.

      Three of the papers in this session explore the theme of health impact assessment from a community perspective using examples from Canada, Wales and Nigeria. The 4th paper examines the theme from the perspective of the Corporate Social Responsibility agenda of the extractive industry.

      Presentation of papers followed by a general audience discussion.

      Presentations
      Community-Driven Health Impact Assessment

      Presenter(s): Colleen Cameron, Coady International Institute and Clinical Associate in the School of Nursing, St. Francis Xavier University

      The People Assessing Their Health (PATH) process is a community-driven approach to HIA that enables community members to develop and use their own Community Health Impact Assessment Tool (CHIAT).

      An HIA of a Local Development Plan in Wales

      Presenter(s): Liz Green, Welsh Health Impact Assessment Support Unit

      Undertaking the HIA of the preferred strategy of the local development plan has “‘added value” to the plan, the process, and the policy and supported stakeholder participation in planning developments.

      "It Takes a Village": The Kigutu Story

      Presenter(s): C. P. (Charlie) Wolf, Social Impact Assessment Center

      The Kigutu story is a “natural experiment” in community health impact assessment, both as humanitarian intervention and as community development that can produce lasting social change in a confl ict region.

      HIA and Extractive Industry: Relevant for CSR Agenda

      Presenter(s): Francesca Viliani, International SOS

      CSR principles can help practitioners involved in HIA of extractive industry projects in selecting and empowering community by involving them in shaping the impact assessment process.

      Closing Remarks Martin Birley

  • TF1.2 Oil and Gas Development: The Role of Impact Assessment

    • Convenor(s): Terje Lind, Ministry of Environment, Norway

      There is a strong linkage between oil and gas development and environmental and social quality, and thus human well-being. All sources of energy are causing adverse impacts to the environment in one way or another. Impact assessments of oil and gas development projects are therefore essential for finding ways to mitigate adverse impacts and enhancing the benefi cial ones. Governments and the public are increasingly focusing attention on the need for improved governance and more transparent management policies in the sector, and this theme forum will discuss some of these issues.

      Presentations
      The Norwegian Oil for Development Program (OfD): Its Vision, Purpose and Present Status

      Presenter(s): Solveig Andresen, Norwegian Oil for Development Program

      The OfD program was launched in 2005 and aims to help developing nations better manage their oil and gas resources. This presentation will introduce the program and inform about results and status of the program so far.

      Oil and Gas Exploration in Ghana

      Presenter(s): Victor Kofi Sunu-Attah, Ghana National Petroleum Corporation

      Ghana began oil and gas exploration fairly recently, and authorities have been very concerned about managing the resources right, financially, socially and environmentally. This presentation will discuss the Ghanaian approach with special reference to the development of the Jubilee Oil field and the use of strategic environmental assessment in that context.

      Integration of Social Impact Assessments and Environmental Impact Assessments in the Oil and Gas Industry

      Presenter(s): Arne Tesli, Norwegian Institute for Urban and Regional Research (NIBR)

      All too often the social and the environmental impact assessments are done as two separate documents in oil and gas industry projects, independent of each other and at different times in the planning process. The importance and need for integrating the two is the subject of this presentation.

      Working with Indigenous Peoples as Partners in Petroleum Exploration and Development

      Presenter(s): Peter Croal, Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA)

      More and more indigenous communities all over the world are affected by oil and gas exploration and production. The oil industry has often overlooked indigenous peoples’ rights. The imposition of massive industrial projects on indigenous land is threatening both physical and social existence of cultures which are often ecologically unique.

  • TF1.3 OECD-DAC Forum on SEA in Practice in Development Cooperation

    • Convenor(s): John Hobbs

      This workshop will provide an update on the status of the work of the OECD-DAC Task Team on SEA following the publication, in 2006, of OECD Guidance on SEA. Selected cases of SEAs supported and undertaken by development cooperation agencies and partner countries will be showcased. They will aim to demonstrate good practice and highlight implementation of the guidance and donor harmonization on SEA in support of the Paris Declaration.

      Presentation of papers and case studies followed by panel questions and answer session.

      Presentations
      Introduction to Work of DAC SEA Task Force and Case Studies

      Presenter(s): John Hobbs

      Key Findings from Case Study Analysis

      Presenter(s): Barry Sadler

      Case Study: SEA Harmonisation/Environmental Mainstreaming in Ghana

      Presenter(s): S. Doolan

      Case Study: SEA in Namibia

      Presenter(s): Peter Tarr, Southern African Institute for Environmental

  • TF1.4 Positive Impact of Telecommunication on Human Well-Being and Sustainable Development

    • Convenor(s): Mawuena Dumor, Corporate Services Executive, MTN Ghana

      MTN Ghana, the leading mobile telecommunications provider in Ghana, recognizes the critical role of sustainable development and continues to champion the telecoms sector in towards environmentally sound strategies for business with initiatives such as co-location with other telecom operators. This forum seeks to stimulate discussions on developing the standards to enforce, measure and monitor the impact of the telecoms industry on the environment as well as find ways of addressing public perceptions and health concerns related to telecom infrastructure and the role of permitting agencies in fostering sustainable development in partnership with mobile telephony operators.

      Paper presentations followed by a documentary and mini (10-minute) breakout sessions for discussions and question and answer session. Recommendations and wrap-up to be fi nalized by the convener.

      Sponsor: MTN

      Presentations
      Cell Phones, Masts and Radiation and Impact on Human Well-Being: The Facts and Misconceptions

      Presenter(s): Emmanuel Amamoo Otchere, Development GEOinformation Services (DEGEOSERV), Accra

      The paper will delve into the precautionary principle, the facts and misconceptions of the impact of masts and radiation and the health debate. It is anticipated that at the end, participants will be better informed of the impact as well as recommendations to better harness the potential of the mobile telecommunications industry.

      Relevance of ICT/Mobile Telephony in Sustainable Development

      Presenter(s): Patrick Awuah, Ashesi University, Ghana

      The presentation focuses on the relevance of technology/ mobile telecommunication in improving quality of life in rural communities and adding value to society. References will be made to case studies using telecommunications to reduce carbon emissions throughout the economy and reducing the impact of business on the environment.

      Relevance of Effcient Planning and Permitting in the Mobile Telecoms Sector

      Presenter(s): Oluwole Jacob Ameyan, Environmental Impact Assessment Department of the Ministry of Environment, Nigeria

      The importance of standards to regulate efficiency in the telecommunication sector. How well developed are the standards and what are the next steps? The cell site co-location, fibre optics, having properly resourced agencies for monitoring, development of standards to enforce, measure and monitor the impact on the environment by the telecoms industry, etc.

  • TF1.5 Supply Chains: The Missing Linkages in Impact Assessment

    • Convenor(s): Ana Maria Esteves, Community Insights

      The theme forum will deal with the question of how supply chains can potentially contribute to social development and how impact assessment can serve as a tool to optimise the benefi ts flowing to affected communities through enterprise development. A range of perspectives will be presented, from diverse country contexts. The invited speakers represent leading thinkers and practitioners on this topic representing international development agencies, NGOs, corporates and researchers. The primary learning objective is to encourage impact assessment professionals to consider how the supply of goods and services to major projects and ongoing operations can contribute to social development, addressing poverty and the broader dimensions of sustainability.

      Paper presentations followed by a brief critical summation of the issues affecting practice and research in assessing the impacts of supply chains by the Convener.

      Presentations
      The Critical Role of Impact Assessment in Local Supply Chain Development: Lessons from the Democratic Republic of Congo

      Presenter(s): Karen Hayes

      Major companies, particularly in extractive and manufacturing industries, are required to carry out EIAs, but these are often not extended to include their local suppliers. A case study on Pact’s work with the mining sector in the DRC will be discussed, addressing issues such as economic boom and bust – the impact of project cycle supply demands on a small community, practical elements in building effective local enterprises, helping local business women to access to credit, and lessons learned.

      ALP: Measuring the Impact of Supplier Development

      Presenter(s): George Brakoh, Newmont Ghana Gold Ltd., Maria Cecilia Araujo Morales, IFC

      This paper provides evidence on how indirect effects of supplier development increase the social assets of rural communities as a result of the formalisation of business practices.

      Leaving a Legacy: Adapting Business Culture

      Presenter(s): Dino Cangy, Sasol

      Sasol intends to maximise local content across all its operations in Mozambique. In replicating an established linkages program, Sasol has identified framework conditions, developed performance indicators, and changed corporate practices.

      Conclusion

      Presenter(s): Ana Maria Esteves

      Brief overview of a project in Australia that involves a collaboration between seven corporates, two government agencies and two universities. The project addresses the challenge: “How can mining, oil and gas companies meet the objectives of contributing to sustainable regions and Indigenous economic development through enterprise facilitation and integration of local SMEs into supply chains?”. One of the specific objectives relates to assessing and monitoring the impacts (socio-economic impacts and business value impacts) of local SME development and supply chain activities.

  • TF2.1 Poverty and Impact Assessment: What Can We Do to Achieve MDG? (Part 1)

    • Convenor(s): Maria Partidario, Instituto Superior Técnico; Linda Ghanimé, United Nations Development Program; Arne Dalfelt, NIBR

      Poverty is a growing problem, despite efforts for poverty eradication and improvement of the situation in many parts of the world. The situation in many African countries is quite critical, but the growth of relative poverty in our developed societies and urban conurbations is also a major issue of concern.

      Paper presentations by selected speakers followed by group discussion using an Indaba format.

      Linda Ghanimé

      Presentations
      Impact Assessment During the Economic Meltdown

      Presenter(s): Peter Croal, Canadian International Development Agency

      The current economic crisis necessitates that impact assessment practitioners prepare impact assessments in a more comprehensive way concerning risk from the perspective of regulators, lenders and private sector.

      The Question of Compensation: The Role of Impact Assessment and Physical Planning, and Centralised and Decentralised Decision Making

      Presenter(s): Arne Tesli, Norway

      PADEC Environmental and Social Follow-Up, Mali

      Presenter(s): Jean-Phillippe Waaub, GEIGER, Geography Department, UQAM

      The Community Development Support Project (PADEC) is in fact an action program. It is related to the second phase of the Poverty Reduction Strategy in Mali and is funded by the African Development Fund. The first phase done between 2001 and 2005, has led to very encouraging results for local community members. Hundreds of those projects have been and will be implemented under this project and the outcome of the evaluation of EIAs conducted would be presented.

      A Viewpoint on the Poverty Alleviation Challenge

      Presenter(s): Indaba session to follow (TF3.3, Thursday, 21 May, 09:00).

  • TF2.2 Health Impact Assessments in Development Projects

    • Convenor(s): Mark Divall, NewFields

      This session will highlight the rapidly growing practice of Health Impact assessments in projects in the developing world. The methodology of HIA will be introduced based on the new International Finance Corporation health impact assessment toolkit. Practical as well as considerations for applying HIA as an integrated and multidisciplinary study will be discussed.

      The chair will introduce the concept of HIA, its relevance and the flow of the theme forum. The session will combine relevant policy and procedural guidelines as well as practical application and tools. The integration of HIA in the EIA and EMP process will be addressed as this is the biggest opportunity to start mainstreaming the practice of HIA. After the introduction there would be the following presentations:

      Presentations
      Challenges and Prospects of Health Impact Assessment of Development Projects in Resource-Poor Communities: Evaluation of a Five-Stage Model

      Presenter(s): Stephan Abah, Ambrose Alli University Nigeria

      This paper evaluates the methodological challenges associated with carrying out health impact assessments in resource poor communities and proposes a five stage model based on practical experiences in Nigeria.

      Development of a Framework for Health Impact Assessment

      Presenter(s): Geetha Ramesh, WorleyParsons

      Framework of HIA process should be all inclusive. This comprises of several steps including screening, scoping, stakeholder communication and consultation, profi ling, risk assessment or appraisal, decision making and mitigative measures. This presentation will consider the framework of applying HIA as an integrated and multi-disciplinary study.

      An Innovative Approach for HIA in the Tropics

      Presenter(s): Mirko Winkler, Swiss Tropical Institute / NewFields Switzerland

      We present an HIA approach that is broadly applicable in complex eco-epidemiological settings. Multiple steps, including an innovative risk analysis matrix, generate structured outcomes for informed decision-making.

      HIA and Malaria in Industrial Project

      Presenter(s): Francesca Viliani, International SOS

      The paper presents case studies of comprehensive HIAs in malarious areas and various examples of program implementation.

  • TF2.3 Mapping EIA: Tools for (Self-)Analysis of EIA Systems

    • Convenor(s): Bobbi Schijf, Netherlands Commission for EIA; Reinoud Post, Netherlands Commission for Environmental Assessment

      EIA strengthening in any country should start from a shared understanding of what blocks EIA effectiveness. This session brings together different approaches to EIA system analysis and discusses their applicability and the results of their application in Africa.

      Each of the presenters will briefly present the EIA mapping approach that they have worked with one of the presentations taking the form of an interview between the two presenters. Some limited time for questions will be allotted the presenters will remain as a panel, possibly complemented with others involved. The chairs will then present a series of stimulating statements on the (im)possibilities of EIA country analysis, to be consecutively discussed with the panel and the audience. Session will close with a summary of do’s and don’t for EIA (self) analysis.

      Presentations
      Review the Efficiency and Effectiveness of EIAs

      Presenter(s): Wayne Hector, DEAT, South Africa

      The Department commissioned an independent study on the efficiency and effectiveness of EIAs in South Africa. The findings of this study will be used to develop the strategy.

      Assessing EA Effectiveness: CLEAA Perspectives

      Presenter(s): Mark Stoughton, Cadmus Group, Abdulrahman Issa, IUCN

      Brief presentation of the methodology developed for an assessment of Mali’s EIA system and the recommendations of the CLEAA-ECA African Experts’ Workshop, which synthesized participants’ EIA system assessment experiences.

      Assessing the State of EIA Systems: An African Case

      Presenter(s): Peter Tarr, Southern African Institute for Environmental Assessment (SAIEA)

      New approaches towards reliably assessing the actual performance of EA systems have been used by SAIEA in various African countries so that capacity building efforts can be more focused.

      EIA Mapping: Rapid Assessment of EIA Systems

      Presenter(s): Reinoud Post, Netherlands Commission for Environmental Assessment Dieudonne Bitondo, Environmental Assessment in Central Africa (SEACA)

      EIA mapping is a practical tool for participatory assessment of EIA systems. The process is as important as the outcome. It provides a useful basis for monitoring EIA system evolution.

  • TF2.4 Promoting Human Well-Being through Mining in West Africa: The Role of SEA

    • Convenor(s): Fernando Loayza, World Bank

      The forum’s objective is to discuss how strategic environmental and social assessment contributes to achieve the triple bottom line of economic, social and environmental benefits from mineral sector development, hence enhancing human-well being. The forum will focus on the World Bank-supported policy dialogue, the West Africa Minerals Sector Strategic Assessment (WAMSSA), that covers the Mano River countries of Guinea, Liberia and Sierra Leone.

      The session will be organized as a discussion panel comprising two segments:

      Short presentations on the Africa Mineral Sector Governance Project and the preliminary findings of WAMSSA will set the scene for the discussion panel.

      A panel integrated by representatives of governments and regional economic integration organizations will discuss:

      Panelists: Ibrahima Sory Camara, Director, Ministry of Mines, Guinea Walter McCarthy, Director for Mines, Ministry of Mines and Energy, Liberia Usman Boie Kamara, Acting Director of Mines, Ministry of Mineral Resources, Sierra Leone Simeon Moribah, Secretary General, Mano River Union Mensan Lawson-Hechelli, Director of Mines and Industry, ECOWAS Commission, Economic Community of West African States. Souleymane Zeba, Advisor, Regional Integration and NEPAD, ECOWAS Commission Abdoulaye Kone, Directeur des Resources Minérales, du Pétrole, et des Energies Renouvelable, Economic and Monetary Union of West Africa

      Sponsor: World Bank and Golder Associates

      Presentations
      The Africa Mineral Governance Project (AMGP)

      Presenter(s): Fernando Loayza, World BankPeter Kristensen, World Bank

      The Africa Mineral Governance Project is an umbrella regional finance facility for technical assistance to support regional harmonization in line with the Africa Mining Vision 2050 and to EITI++ principles.

      Findings and Preliminary Recommendations of the West Africa Minerals Sector Strategic Assessment

      Presenter(s): Rob Hounsome, Golder Associates Africa

      WAMSSA was launched in 2008 and is expected to be completed by June 2009. It focuses on issues associated with sub-regional mining development in the countries piloting AMGP. By complementing analytical work with participatory processes, WAMSSA identified national and Mano River Union environmental and social priorities, and assessed the existing capacity to address priorities at regional level, and at national and sub-national levels with regional implications. Institutional and policy adjustments required to enabling countries to manage regional environmental and social issues have been prepared and will be discussed in a regional validation workshop.

  • TF3.1 Sustainable Development Through Mining: Is It Possible?

    • Convenor(s): Chris Anderson, Newmont

      Through a series of specific questions posed to a panel of experts from varying relevant backgrounds, we will deal with issues of how development impacts land and people and how this is measured and managed using Ghana and mining as a case study and a set of examples.

      Mining needs access to land and usually this means impacting people. Companies are faced with a dual task of mitigating their negative impacts on the environment and communities but also being a positive part of development in rural, low income areas. How do you assess these impacts and how do they feed into the local community economy and, ultimately, the national economy?

      The session will bring together speakers with differing perspectives including industry, government, civil society and professional impact assessors in the hope of drawing productive conclusions on matters crucial to Ghana’s path to positive growth and sustainable development.

      The moderator will pose questions. A lead panelist will respond. Panel discussion will then take place with 2-3 questions from the audience as well.

      Panelists:

      Sponsor: Newmont Ghana (IAIA09 Premier Sponsor)

  • TF3.2 Low Energy Solutions for South and North

    • Convenor(s): Martin Birley, BirleyHIA

      The objective of the forum is to enable participants to focus on the challenges and opportunities presented by climate change and peak oil in the countries of the South. Participants will have an opportunity to consider the consequences of an energy constrained future for impact assessments. This session will provide an opportunity for participants to discuss the implications of climate change and peak oil for the practice of impact assessment. It will include a review of the issues that will drive down our reliance on fossil fuel and of the opportunities this provides for developing a greener economy.

      Two presentations to set the scene for small group discussions which will consider the following questions:

      Sponsor: Volta River Authority

      Presentations
      Energy Constraint and Impact Assessment

      Presenter(s): Martin Birley, BirleyHIA

      Evidence for climate change and peak oil implies an energy constrained future for all. How does this affect the impact assessment process and the opportunities for safeguarding and mitigation?

      UNEP Green Economy Initiative

      Presenter(s): Hussein Abaza, United Nations Environment Programme

      UNEP’s Green Economy Initiative advocates clean technologies and renewable energy as a means to create jobs, stimulate economies and promote sustainable objectives.

  • TF3.3 Poverty and Impact Assessment: What Can We Do to Achieve MDG 2? (Part 2)

    • Convenor(s): Maria Partidario and Ana Maria Esteves

      Indaba session: How can impact assessment help achieve the MDG1: Eradicate extreme poverty and hunger?

  • TF3.4 New Movement of Environmental and Social Consideration in International Cooperation

    • Convenor(s): Stephen Lintner, World Bank; Sachihiko Harashina, Tokyo Institute of Technology

      Keynote:
      ODA and Sustainability: A New Movement
      Sachihiko Harashina, Tokyo Institute of Technology

      Sponsor: JICA

      Presentations
      Guidelines of Environmental and Social Consideration at JICA as a Bi-Lateral Organization

      Presenter(s): Katsuhiko Okazaki, JICA

      Experience of an Emerging Country: China and the Role of EIA

      Presenter(s): Zhu Xingxiang, Ministry of Environment Protection, China

      Experience of Developing Country: Ghana as an African Case Study

      Presenter(s): Jonathan Allotey, Ghana Environment Protection Agency

      Comments The Viewpoint of a Multilateral OrganizationPeter Leonard, World Bank

      Closing Remarks Stephen Lintner, World Bank