1.offshore SEA of Shoaba 4 RO Plant Offshore Works PDF

‫ﻣﺆﺳﺴﺔ ﺍﻟﺘﻮﺍﺯﻥ ﺍﻟﺒﻴﺌﻲ‬
Environmental Balance Establishment
SOCIAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT

ASSESSMENT(SEA) OF OFFSHORE WORKS OF SHOAIBA
REVERSE OSMOSIS PLANT, PHASE IV (SROP Ph IV).
SHOAIBA, KINGDOM OF SAUDI ARABIA
August 2017- October 2017
VOLUME I: SEA STUDY (OFFSHORE)
Submitted to
THE GENERAL AUTHORITY OF METEOROLOGY AND

ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION (GAMEP)
And
M/S. DOOSAN HEAVY INDUSTRIES AND CONSTRUCTION LTD
555, Gwigok-Dong, Changwon, Gyeongnam 641-792, Korea
EBE/616/1000/2017 Volume I
________________________________________________________________________________________________ 1
SEA on Offshore works of Shoaiba RO plant phase 4, Saudi Arabia Volume I
Doosan Heavy Industries & Construction Ltd
Copyright @ Environmental Balance Establishment Ltd, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
Disclaimer
This report has been prepared on behalf of and for the exclusive use of M/S Doosan Heavy
Industries And Construction Ltd, and is subject to and issued in accordance with the
agreement between M/S Doosan Heavy Industries And Construction Ltd, and
Environmental Balance Establishment Ltd. M/S Doosan Heavy Industries And
Construction Ltd, and Environmental Balance Establishment Ltd , accepts no liability or
responsibility whatsoever for it in respect of any use of or reliance upon this report by any
third party.
Copying this report without the permission of M/S Doosan Heavy Industries And
Construction Ltd, or Environmental Balance Establishment Ltd , Jeddah is not permitted.
===============================================================
DOC NUMBER: EBE/616/1000/2017 Volume 1
PROJECT: SOCIAL & ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT VOLUME I
OFFSHORE WORKS OF SHOAIBA RO PHASE 4 PROJECTS– SHOAIBA, KINGDOM OF

SAUDI ARABIA
===============================================================
REV DESCRIPTION REVIEW APPROVAL DATE
==================================================================
00 SEA Offshore Dr Dirrar Nissar Osama J Qurban 30.10.2017
==============================================================
REV Issued By Date Reviewed Comment Date
0 Dilshad Thalappil 30.11.2017 Dr Dirar Nasr
1 Dilshad Thalappil 24.12.2017 Dr Dirar Nasr
________________________________________________________________________________________________ 2
LIST OF ABBREVIATIONS
As Arsenic
ASL Above Sea Level
Cd Cadmium
CFC Chlorofluorocarbon
CH4 Methane
CITIES Consortium for International Trade of Endangered Spices
cm/sec Centimeter per Second
cm Centimeter
CO Carbon Monoxide
Cu Copper
dB Decibel
DHIC M/S Doosan Heavy Industries And Construction Ltd,KSA
E East
EBA Environmental Baseline Assessment
EBE Environmental Balance Establishment Ltd
EMMP Environmental Management and Monitoring Plan
EMP Environmental Management Plan
EIS Environmental Impact Study
EPA Environmental Protection Agency
ERP Emergency Remediation Plan
ESIA Environmental and Social Impact assessment
ETP Effluent Treatment Plant
FID Flame Ionization Detector
FRM Federal Reference Method
GAMEP General Authority of Meteorology and Environmental Protection
GCC Gulf Cooperation Council
GERRI General Environmental Regulations and Rules for Implementation
GHG Green House Gases
Hg Mercury
hr Hour
ICZM Integrated Coastal Zone Management
IFC International Finance Corporation
IMDG Code International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code
lpm liter per minute
IUCN International Union for the Conservation of Nature
IWMP Integrated Waste Management Plan
Km Kilo Meters
km2 Square Kilo Meters
KSA Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
m Meters
m2 Square Meters
m3 Cubic Meters
NCWCD National Commission for Wildlife Conservation and Development
NO2 Nitrogen dioxide
NMHC Non-Methane Hydrocarbon
NTU Nephelometric Turbidity Unit
OEMP Operation Environmental Management Plan
________________________________________________________________________________________________ 3
PEL Public Environmental Law

PME Presidency of Meteorology and Environmental Protection
PAH Polyaromatic hydrocarbons
Pb Lead
PDCA plan-do-check-act
PEL Public Environmental Law
PM10 Particulate matter of less than 10 μm in diameter
ppm parts per million
ppt parts per thousand
RCER Royal Commission Environmental Regulations
ROI Regions of Influence
S South
SEA Social & Environmental Impact Assessment Study
SROP Ph IV Shoaiba R O Plant Phase IV
sec Seconds
slpm standard liter per minute
SO2 Sulphur dioxide
STP Sewage Treatment Plant
TDS Total Dissolved Solids
THC Total Hydrocarbon
TNMHC Total Non-Methane Hydrocarbon
TPH Total Petroleum Hydrocarbons
TSE Treated Sewage Effluent
TSS Total Suspended Solids
UNEDP United Nations Environmental and Development Program
USEPA United States Environmental Protection Agency
W West
________________________________________________________________________________________________ 4
Table of Contents
SECTION DESCRIPTION PAGE

SECTION 1 : NON-TECHNICAL SUMMARY 017-044
1.1 Introduction
1.1.1 Presentation of the project
1.2 Shoaiba R O Plant Phase IV Project.
1.3 The objectives of the ESIA are to provide
1.4 ESIA Technical Works
1.5 Legislative and Statutory Consultation
1.6 Data Collection and Review
1.7 Consultation and Liaison with the stake holders
1.8 Environmental Baseline Assessment
1.9 Project Categorization
1.9.1 General Environmental Regulations and Rules for
Implementation 2001 (GERRI 2001)
1.9.2 Equator Principle II of 2013
1.10 Environmental Impact Assessment of SROP Ph IV off shore
construction works
1.11 Mitigation
1.12 ESIA: Structure of the Report
1.13 Terms of Reference set out for ESIA Study of off shore
construction works of Shoaiba RO Plant Phase IV Project
1.14 Scope of ESIA Study
1.15 Potential Impacts on the Bathymetry of Red Sea Coast at the
SROP Ph IV
1.16 Potential Impacts on the Coastal Processes of SROP Ph IV
1.17 Potential Impacts on the Marine Water Quality of SROP Ph IV
off shore area
1.18 Potential Impacts on the Air Quality
1.19 Potential Impacts from the Noise during off shore construction
works of SROP Ph IV
1.20 Potential Impacts on the Marine Flora and Fauna
1.21 Potential Impacts from the Waste generation
1.22 Identified Mitigation Measures to reduce the impacts of
Potential impacts from off shore construction works of SROP
Ph IV
1.22.1 Mitigation measures to reduce the effect on Bathymetry of
SROP Ph IV off shore area
1.22.2 Mitigation measures to reduce the effect on Coastal Processes
at SROP Ph IV
1.22.3 Mitigation measures to reduce the effect on the Marine Water
Quality
1.22.4 Mitigation measures to reduce the effect on the Air Quality at
SROP Ph IV
1.22.4.1 Control of Volatile Emissions
1.22.5 Mitigation measures to reduce the effects of Odour
1.22.6 Mitigation measures to reduce the effects of Noise
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1.22.7 Mitigation measures to reduce the effect on the Terrestrial

Flora and Fauna
1.22.8 Mitigation measures to reduce the effect on the Marine Flora
and Fauna
1.22.9 Mitigation measures to reduce the effect on the Social
Environment
1.22.10 Mitigation measures to reduce the impacts from Waste
generation
1.23 Conclusions and Recommendations
1.23.1 Conclusions
1.23.2 Recommendations
SECTION 2 : REVIEW OF ENVIRONMENTAL REGULATIONS 045-076
2.1 General
2.2 Environmental Regulatory Framework in KSA
2.2.1 KSA Regulations and Standards Applicable to the Shoaiba RO
Plant Phase IV Project
2.2.2 ESIA Requirements in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
2.3 National & Regional Legislations
2.3.1 The Basic Law of Governance 1992
2.3.2 Islamic Law
2.3.3 Environmental Regulations of the GAMEP
2.3.4 National Coastal Zone Management Requirements, December
1987
2.3.4.1 Future development and the use of the coastal zone
management program
2.3.4.2 Coastal Policies, Legislation and other Regulatory instruments
in Saudi Arabia
2.3.4.2.1 Environment Protection Standards
2.3.2.2 National Oil Spill and Hazardous Substances Contingency Plan
2.3.4.3 Fisheries Regulations
2.3.5 Labour and Workmen Law
2.3.6 Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) – Public Environmental Law,
2001
2.3.7 Implementing Rules for the Public Environmental Protection
Law 2003
2.3.8 Royal Commission for Jubail & Yanbu
2.4 International Protocols & Guidelines
2.4.1 Equator Principle II of 2013
2.4.2 World Bank Requirements
2.4.3 World Health Organization (WHO)
2.4.4 International Finance Corporation (IFC) Performance
Standards
2.5 International Conventions
2.5.1 Sea
2.5.2 Air
2.5.3 Biological Diversity
2.5.4 Movement of Waste
2.5.5 Others
2.6 The Red Sea and Gulf of Aden
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2.6.1 Regional action plan for the conservation of coral reefs in the
Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden.( March 2003) PERSGA
2.6.2 Regional action plan for the Conservation of Breeding Seabirds
and their habitats in the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden (April
2004), PERSGA.
2.7 Islamic Principles for the Conservation of the Natural
Environment
2.8 The Six Member Committee
2.9 Other available Regional Environmental Standards &
Regulations in Saudi Arabia
SECTION 3 : PROJECT DESCRIPTION 077-098
3.1 Introduction
3.2 Purpose
3.3 Plant capacity
3.4 Manpower for this project
3.5 Project Description and Key Elements of the Plant
3.6 Process Description
3.6.1 General
3.6.2 Process Overview
3.6.3 Process calculations
3.7 Offshore works of Shoaiba 4 Project-Construction of intake
and out fall systems
3.7.1 Intake systems
3.7.2 Seawater Intake Pumping Station
3.7.3 Information of Filtered Water Tank
3.7.4 Out fall systems
SECTION 4 : SEA TECHNICAL WORK FOR OFFSHORE WORKS OF 099-127
SHOAIBA RO PLANT PHASE IV PROJECT
4.1 Aims and Objectives of the ESIA Study
4.2 Methodology of ESIA Study
4.3 Strategy of the work
4.4 ESIA Technical Disciplines
4.5 Impact Assessment Methodology
4.6 Environmental Impact Identification
4.7 Final Impact Significance
4.8 Impact Prediction – Scoping
4.9 Evaluation of Impacts
4.9.1 Severity Criteria
4.9.2 Definition of Spatial Scale for Environmental Impacts
4.9.3 Definition of Temporal Scale for Environmental Impacts
4.9.4 Definition of Intensity (Value/Magnitude) Scale for
Environmental Impacts
4.9.5 Integrated Assessment of Impact from Various Impact Sources
upon Particular Environmental Components
4.9.6 Assessment of Cumulative Impact and Different Impacts
4.9.7 Cumulative Impacts Assessment
4.9.8 Assessment of Different Impact Sources Interaction
4.9.9 Trans-boundary Impacts
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4.9.10 Assessment of Residual Impacts Significance, Impact Value

Criteria and Impact Probability
4.9.11 Impact Assessment definitions
4.10 Biological Environment
4.10.1 Marine Ecology Survey
SECTION 5 : EXISTING ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS OFF 128-176
SHOAIBA PHASE IV OFFSHORE AREA
5.1 Introduction
5.2 Preface (General, Geographical & Topographical Settings of
Shuqaiq area)
5.3 Introduction to the existing conditions of SRO phase IV Site
(General, Geographical & Topographical Settings of SRO
Phase IV)
5.4 Site location and plot plan
5.5 Environmental Baseline conditions of SRO Phase IV
5.6 General, Geographical & Topographical Settings of SRO4
5.7 Soil and Hydrogeology of the area
5.7.1 Soil Characterization
5.7.2 Hydrogeology
5.8 Seismological Data / Earthquake
5.9 Meteorological Conditions
5.10 Bathymetry
5.11 Water Quality
5.12 Sediment Quality
5.13 Numerical Modelling
5.13.1 Model description
5.13.2 Domain and bathymetry
5.13.3 Boundary and input conditions
5.13.4 Coastal Circulations in front of Shoaiba
5.13.4.1 Circulations during summer
5.13.4.2 Circulations during winter
5.13.5 Thermal and Brine Plume Dispersions
5.13.5.1 Temperature
5.13.5.2 Salinity
5.13.6 Summary and conclusions
5.14 Marine Ecology
5.14.1 Introduction
5.14.2 Field survey Methodology.
5.14.3 Results
5.14.4 Conclusion
SECTION 6 : ANALYSIS OF ALTERNATIVES FOR SROP Ph IV OFF 177-191
SHORE WORKS
6.1 Introduction
6.2 The “No Action” Alternative vs. Project Implementation
6.3 Alternative 2: Technology Selection
6.4 Project Implementation
6.4.1 Saudi Arabia Vision 2030 and the domestic water supply
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6.4.2 Technical criteria for suitability

6.4.3 Institutional criteria for suitability
6.4.4 Environmental criteria for suitability
6.5 Dredging Technology
6.5.1 Trailing Suction Hopper Dredger
6.5.1.1 Discharging
6.5.2 Cutter Suction Dredgers
6.5.3 Back Hoe Dredger
6.5.4 Grab or Clamshell Dredger
6.5.5 Water Injection Dredging
6.6 Placement Options
6.6.1 Direct Placement
6.6.2 Rain-bowing
6.6.3 Pipeline Transport
6.6.4 Land Based Techniques
6.6.5 Dewatering
6.7 Summary of Environmental Risks Associated with Dredging
and Placement
6.8 Evaluation of Dredging and Placement Options
SECTION 7 : ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS IDENTIFICATION AND 192-219
ANALYSIS
7.1 Introduction
7.1.1 Screening of Potential Impacts due to SROP Ph IV
Development
7.1.2 Impact Magnitude
7.1.3 Sensitivity of the Receptors
7.1.4 Meteorological Parameters
7.2 Air Environment
7.2.1 Key Potential impacts during the Construction Phase of SROP
Ph IV
7.2.2 Key Potential impacts during the Construction Phase of SROP
Ph IV
7.2.3 Key Potential impacts during the Operational Phase of SROP
Ph IV project
7.3 Key Potential impacts from Noise and Vibration at SROP Ph
IV site
7.3.1 7.3.1. Key Potential impacts during the Pre-Construction Phase
at SROP Ph IV site.
7.3.2 Key Potential impacts from Noise and Vibration during the
Construction Phase
7.3.3 Key Potential impacts from Noise and Vibration during the
Operational Phase
7.4 Waste Management at SROP Ph IV Project site
7.4.1 Key Potential impacts from wastes during the Construction
Phase of SROP Ph IV
7.4.2 Key Potential impacts from wastes during the Operation Phase
of SROP Ph IV
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7.5 Key Potential impacts on the Marine Environmental effects

during trenching of sea bed for installation of intake and outfall
channels for SROP Ph IV
7.6 Key Potential Impacts to Marine Fauna at SROP Ph IV
offshore works
7.6.1 General Effects of Contaminants on Marine Life anticipated at
SROP Ph IV off shore works
7.7 Key Factors influencing the potential Marine Environmental
effects during trenching of sea bed for installation of intake and
outfall pipelines.
7.7.1 Land reclamation works
7.7.2 Removal of benthic animals
7.7.2.1 Recovery of benthic communities following dredging activities
7.7.2.1.1 Recovery of benthic communities after dredging activities
7.7.3 Coral Reefs at SROP Ph IV off shore construction site
7.7.4 Sedimentation due to dredging
7.7.5 Contamination of seawater due to dredging.
7.7.6 Key Potential impact on Hydrology and Bathymetry of SROP
Ph IV off shore construction works
7.7.7 Predicted changes to hydrodynamic regime and
geomorphology
7.7.8 Effects from Suspended sediments and turbidity
7.7.9 The general effects of increased suspended solids and turbidity
levels
7.7.10 Effects from Organic matter and nutrients
7.7.11 Settlement of suspended sediments
7.7.12 Key Potential Impact of acid sulfate soils
7.7.12.1 Environmental Impacts
7.8 Summary of impacts of trenching of sea bed for installation of
intake and outfall channels for SROP Ph IV during
Construction Phase
7.9 Key Potential Impacts on water resource and drainage pattern
7.9.1 Key Potential Impacts during preconstruction phase
7.9.2 Key Potential Impacts during construction phase
7.9.3 Potential Ecological Impacts
7.9.4 Impact of Oil Pollution
7.9.5 Potential effects of oil on the environment
7.10 Turbulence and aeration
7.11 Key impacts on Ecological Resources at SROP Ph IV
7.11.1 Flora
7.11.2 Fauna
7.11.2.1 Terrestrial Fauna of SROP Ph IV site
7.11.3 Aquatic Fauna of SROP Ph IV off shore site
7.12 Human Use Values
7.12.1 Health and Safety
7.13 Land Acquisition and Resettlement
7.13.1 Social and Economic
7.13.1 Impacts during Construction Phase of SROP Ph IV Project
7.13.2 Impacts during Operation Phase of SROP Ph IV Project
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7.14 Archaeology
7.15 Aesthetics in the vicinity of SROP Ph IV Project
7.15.1 Key Impacts during Construction Phase of SROP Ph IV Project
7.16.1 Impacts during Operation Phase
SECTION 8: MITIGATION MEASURES 220-244
8.1 Introduction
8.2 Mitigating Measures for Project Impacts
8.2.1 Recommended mitigation measures for reducing the key
Potential impacts of trenching of sea bed for installation of
intake and outfall channels for SROP Ph IV Project
8.2.1.1. Mitigation measures for protecting existing natural resources at
SROP Ph IV Project
Potential impacts on Topography and Bathymetry at SROP Ph
IV Project
Potential impacts on Soils and Geology of SROP Ph IV Project
Potential impacts on Groundwater at SROP Ph IV Project
Potential impacts on Air Quality at SROP Ph IV Project
8.2.6 Control of Dust Emissions
8.2.7 Control of exhaust emissions
8.2.8 Control of Volatile Emissions
8.2.9 Control of Odour
Potential impacts on Air Quality during Operation Phase of
SROP Ph IV off shore structures
8.2.11 To mitigate effects on the Air Quality
8.2.11.1 To mitigate effects of Odor
8.3 Recommended mitigation measures for reducing the key
Potential impacts from Noise and Vibration
8.3.1 To mitigate impacts during construction phase
8.3.2 To mitigate impacts during Operation Phase
8.4 Methods of minimizing potential impacts of dredging and
promoting benefits
8.4.1 Timing
8.4.2 Selection of Dredging Options
8.4.3 Deployment of Silt Curtains
Potential impacts from Wastes at SROP Ph IV
8.5.1 During construction phase
Potential impacts from Wastes during Operation Phase
Potential impacts on Marine Water and Sediments
8.6.1 During Construction Phase
8.6.2 To mitigate impacts on Marine water quality during Operation
Phase of SROP Ph IV
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8.6.3 To mitigate impacts on Marine and Sediment Quality

Potential impacts from oil pollution
8.7.1.1 Oil Spill Contingency Plan
Potential impacts from Acid Sulfate Soils
8.8.1 Requirement of an Acid Sulfate Soil Management Plan
Potential impacts on Terrestrial and Coastal Ecology
Potential impacts on Marine Ecology
8.10.1 To mitigate impacts during construction Phase
8.10.2 To mitigate impacts during Operation Phase
8.10.3 To mitigate impacts on Coral Reefs
8.10.4 Infauna Communities
Potential impacts from Traffic & Transport at SROP Ph IV
8.11.1 To mitigate impacts during construction Phase
8.11.2 To mitigate impacts during operation Phase
8.12 Waste Management
8.13 Visual Impacts
8.13.1 Local Regulations
Potential impacts on Social and Economic aspects
8.15 Summary of Mitigation Measures
SECTION 9: ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT & MONITORING 245-266
PLAN
9.1 Introduction
9.2 Mitigation Measures during Construction Phase
9.3 Mitigation Measures during Operation Phase of SROP Ph IV
9.4 Environmental Health, Safety and Emergency Response
9.5 Environmental Performance
9.6 Environmental Monitoring Program
SECTION 10: SUMMARY, CONCLUSIONS AND 267-276
RECOMMENDATIONS
REFERANCES 277-281
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List of Figures
Figure 1.1 Location of Shoaiba R O Plant Phase IV site
Figure 1.2 Map showing R O Plant Phase IV site & Jeddah City
Figure 1.3 R O Plant Phase IV Shoaiba: Project Site
Figure 1.4 Process of SROP Ph IV
Figure 1.5 Project Schedule of SROP Ph IV
Figure 2.1 EIA Requirements in Saudi Arabia
Figure 2.2 Scheme of EIA Process in Saudi Arabia as per GAMEP/PME (GERRI 2001)
Figure 2.3 Systematic approach for using EIA as planning tool for the Off shore
construction works of Shoaiba R O Plant Phase IV Shoaiba, Kingdom of
Saudi Arabia
Figure 3.1 Shoaiba RO4 Location
Figure 3.2 Figure showing manpower scheduled at Shoaiba 4 Project works
Figure 3.3 Offshore Design drawing for SRO Phase IV Project
Figure 3.3 Intake Pipe Installation Sequence
Figure 3.4 Out fall installation Sequence
Figure 4.1 Environment Impact Assessment Procedure (in General)
Figure 4.2 Overall framework for identifying direct, indirect, and ultimate impacts
Figure 4.3 Steps Involved in Environmental and Social Impact Assessment
Figure 4.4 Residual Impact Significance
Figure 5.1 Location of SRO phase IV project site
Figure 5.2 Locations of Shoaiba RO Phase IV Project
Figure 5.3 General Geological Map of Saudi Arabia
Figure 5.4 Geological Map of different regions of Saudi Arabia
Figure 5.5 Geologic Map of Arabian Peninsula
Figure 5.6 Seismic Hazard Distribution Map for the Kingdom (WHO, 2007)
Figure 5.7 Map of the Arabian Peninsula and Surrounding Regions, Major geographic
and tectonic/geologic features are indicated. Plate boundaries are indicated
by yellow lines. Earthquakes and volcanic centers are shown as red circles
and yellow diamond, respectively
Figure 5.8 Average Monthly Temperature of the site
Figure 5.9 Monthly average low and high temperature of the site
Figure 5.10 Monthly average wind speed and direction (1999--2017)
Figure 5.11 Yearly wind direction distribution
Figure 5.12 Offshore wind rose
Figure 5.13 Comparison in significant wave height between buoy measurements and
marked up CISR data set
Figure 5.14 Offshore Wave rose
Figure 5.15 Bathymetric survey area
Figure 5.16 Bathymetric Survey map
Figure 5.17 Water sampling Locations
Figure 5.18 Sediment Quality measurement location
Figure 5.19 Model domain and bathymetry
Figure 5.20 Flexible mesh in the model domain
Figure 5.21 Comparison between predicted (using harmonic constituents) and modelled
surface elevations at Jeddah.
Figure 5.22 Daily averaged wind speed and direction during summer and winter.
Figure 5.27 Snapshot of Flood and Ebb currents during summer
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Figure 5.27 Time series of surface and bottom current speedsat the proposed outfall
location (o4) during summer.
Figure 5.28 Snapshot of Flood and Ebb currents during winter
Figure 5.29 Time series of surface and bottom current speeds at the proposed outfall
location (o4) during winter.
Figure 5.30 Mean surface and bottom temperature for the existing and proposed
conditions during summer.
Figure 5.31 Mean surface and bottom temperature for the existing and proposed
conditions during winter.
Figure 5.32 Mean surface and bottom salinity for the existing and proposed conditions
during summer.
Figure 5.33 Mean surface and bottom salinity for the existing and proposed conditions
during winter.
Figure 5.34 A picture showing how to divide the area of the study
Figure 6.35 The shoreline of the project site is its soft sand and basalt rocks
Figure 5.36 Figure shows the shoreline, algae and dark color of shore sediments
Figure 5.37 Diffusion of sparse marine grass and increased growth of green algae
Figure 5.38 Dead coral colonies and fish found among coral reefs.
Figure 5.39 Incorporation of the environment from the sea to the Transect (2)
Figure 5.40 Incorporate the marine environment along the transect line (3) from the
beach to the open sea
Figure 5.41 Marine environment from the edge of the reef to the beach on the shoreline
(4)
Figure 6.1 Actual and forecasted desalinated water in 1000’m3
Figure 6.2 Schematic view of a trailing suction hopper dredger, offshore sand dredging
and reclamation operations
Figure 6.3 (Left)TSHD discharging by rainbow technique (Right) Typical sediment
plume behind TSHD
Figure 6.4 Example of cutter suction dredger
Figure 6.5 Example of Back Hoe Dredger.
Figure 6.6 Shows a rough overview of the most common grab sizes.
Figure 6.7 Example of Grab or Clamshell Dredger.
Figure 6.8 Example of water injection dredging.
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List of Tables
Table 2.1 Review of Regulatory Requirements and Standards of the GAMEP
Table 4.1 Valued receptors
Table 4.2 Impacts
Table 4.3 Likelihood Assessment
Table 4.4 Definitions of Attributes Used in the Effects Assessment Process
Table 4.5 Effects Ratings Used for Assessing Socio-Economic Effects
Table 4.6 Spatial (area) gradations of environmental impacts
Table 4.7 Gradation of temporal impact assessment
Table 4.8 Intensity scale gradation for environmental impacts
Table 4.9 Categories of impact severity
Table 4.10 An example of the integrated assessment
Table 4.11 General Impact Significance Assessment Matrix (for all environmental
aspects)
Table 4.12 Impact Magnitude (Marine Environmental)
Table 4.13 Receptor Sensitivity (Marine Environment)
Table 4.14 Information Sources
Table 5.1 Information Gaps identified for SRO4 Baseline (Data Deficiency)
Table 5.2 Information on Environmental baseline of the proposed SROP Project Site
Table 5.3 Environmental Baseline Matrix for the Project off shore works of SRO4
Table 5.4 Socio-Economic Factors and their Potential Changes predicted from SRO4
Implementation
Table 5.5 Offshore wind climate, Wind speed vs Direction (position: 20.33°N,
39.33°E)
Table 5.6 Derived offshore extreme wind conditions. NOAA CFSR model 20.33°N,
39.33°E (1979-2009)
Table 5.7 Datum
Table 5.8 Present-day tidal levels for Jeddah
Table 5.9A Offshore wave climate, Hs vs Direction (position: 20.33°N, 39.33°E)
Table 5.9B Derived offshore extreme wave conditions. NOAA CFSR model 20.33°N,
39.33°E (1979-2009)
Table 5.10 Bathymetric survey boundary points
Table 5.11A Sea water Quality baseline results at the site
Table 5.11B Sea Sediment quality Results at the site
Table 5.12 Various tidal levels (above CD) at Shoaiba
Table 5.13 Variations of temperature at intake locations during summer
Table 5.14 Variations of temperature at intake locations during winter
Table 5.15 Variations of salinity at intake locations during summer
Table 5.16 Variations of salinity at intake locations during winter
Table 6.1 Water production in thousand m3 for Jeddah desalination plant
Table 6.2 Actual and forecasted future population (capita) of Jeddah city
Table 6.3 Environmental Risks Associated with Dredging and Placement
Table 7.1 Assessment of Air Quality Impact Significance
Table 7.2 Noise Level Generated by Construction Equipment
Table 7.3 Benthic Habitat Recovery Rate
Table 7.4 Summary of Impacts from trenching of sea bed for installation of intake and
outfall channels for SROP Ph IV.
Table 7.5 Assessment of Terrestrial Ecology Impact Significance at SROP Ph IV site
________________________________________________________________________________________________ 15
Table 7.6 Assessment of Marine and Coastal Impact Significance

Table 7.7 Assessment of Socio-Economic Impact Significance at SROP Ph IV project.
Table 8.1 Examples of general sensitive times for selected marine animals and
plants
Table 8.2 Summary of the environmental issues of ESIA study of trenching of sea bed
for installation of intake and outfall channels for SROP Ph IV Project (as per
GAMEP / World Bank / EP II / IFC standards) and recommended
mitigation measures
Table 9.1 Best Practice Summary for Construction Phase
Table 9.2 Off shore Construction Environmental Monitoring Plans
Table 9.3 Environmental Management Plan
Table 9.4 Marine Water Quality Monitoring Program
Table 9.5 Sediment Quality Monitoring Program
Table 9.6 Marine Habitat Monitoring Program
Table 10.1 Summary of significant impact and mitigation measured proposed
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SECTION 1: NON-TECHNICAL SUMMARY
________________________________________________________________________________________________ 17
SECTION 1: NON-TECHNICAL SUMMARY
1.1. Introduction
The environmental and social impact assessment study for Shoaiba RO Plant Phase IV
Project has been presented in compliance with the General Environmental Regulations and
Rules for Implementation(GERRI, 2001) of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and in the
compliance with Equator Principle EP II 2013. The environmental management study assures
compliance with the regulatory requirements; identifies and analyzes sensitive components of
the existing environment; determines the type, nature and importance of the probable
environmental impacts during construction and operation; identifies and recommends
practical effective mitigation measures; recommends a framework for an environmental
management and monitoring plan for the off shore construction works of Shoaiba RO Plant
Phase IV Project; and ensures that all stakeholders deemed to be influenced by the projects
or activities are fully considered.
Figure 1.1: Location of Shoaiba R O Plant Phase IV site
From the comprehensive environmental and social impact assessment, it is concluded that the
off-shore works of the Shoaiba RO Plant Phase IV Project will not lead to significant
impacts on various environmental components and marine life after the recommended
mitigation measures are implemented. The most significant impacts will occur during
trenching of sea bed for installation of intake and outfall channels. These are anticipated to be
________________________________________________________________________________________________ 18
short-term and, providing full mitigation is applied, the baseline condition will have largely
returned to the predevelopment conditions after a very short period.
The development of the SROP Ph IV is expected to commence, new dredging activities

impacts which are limited to the project site and adjacent areas only. The new trenching of
sea bed for installation of intake and outfall channels should be aligning with the
development and protection of the environment in the best possible way.
If the recommended mitigation measures recommended in Chapter 10 Table 10.1, the
environmental management and monitoring recommendations given in the chapter 9.0 should
be followed, therefore it is anticipated that the negative impacts will not lead to any
significant effects.
Significant impacts are considered to be those for which will be anticipated to create a
negative “impact significance” prior to any mitigation were assessed and/or proposed
1.1.1. Presentation of the project

This Environmental and Social Impact Assessment assesses the environmental, social and
economic impacts associated with the trenching of sea bed for installation of intake and
outfall channels for the SROP Ph IV off shore works . This ESIA report presents the findings
of the comprehensive study in relation to the trenching of sea bed for installation of intake
and outfall channels
This study is conducted in accordance with Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s environmental laws
and regulation and international standards and guidelines (GERRI Appendix 2.4 of GAMEP )
as per requirements of Equator Principle II of 2013. It includes all appropriate areas of the
study that are normally requested by M/S Doosan Heavy Industries and Construction Ltd,
KSA (DHIC) and Saline Water Conversion Corporation (SWCC) and which are specific in
the context of this project.
1.2. Shoaiba R O Plant Phase IV Project.

The Shoaiba Reverse Osmosis plant complex is located in Saudi Arabia on the coast of Red
Sea, about 120 kilometers (75 mi) south of Jeddah. Korean contractor Doosan has secured its
largest ever membrane desalination contract, as Saudi Arabia’s desalination authorities
kicked off a wave of new desalination plants with two major awards. The Saline Water
Conversion Corporation (SWCC) awarded Doosan an SAR1.6 billion ($430 million) contract
to build the 400,000m3/d Shoaiba 4 SWRO plant. The project had been in the pipeline for
several years, but the location was switched at the last minute from Jeddah city to the coastal
________________________________________________________________________________________________ 19
area of Shoaiba, 50 miles to the south. Shoaiba 4 is the first of many major Greenfield
desalination projects which will be built following the reorganization of the Kingdom’s water
sector in 2016.
Figure 1.2: Map showing R O Plant Phase IV site & Jeddah City
SWCC, responsible for supplying 50% of all municipal water in the Kingdom of Saudi
Arabia, took the initial decision to invest heavily in desalination against a backdrop of
chronic water shortage and rising population. According to predictions from the Saudi
Arabian Central Department of Statistics, the Kingdom's total population will exceed 29
million by 2010 and rise to 36.4 million ten years later. Taking a baseline consumption of
300 liters per person per day, the resulting demand for water will increase to over 3,000
million m³/year by 2010 and nearly 4,000 million m³/year by 2020.
Saudi Arabia is now the world's largest producer of desalinated water with desalination
meeting 70% of the country's present drinking water requirement and supplying major
urban and industrial centers through a network of water pipes which run for more than
2,300 miles. Several new desalination plants are planned, or under construction, which will
ultimately bring the final total to almost 30 such facilities.
________________________________________________________________________________________________ 20
Leading South Korean group M/s Doosan Heavy Industries & Construction Company said it
has secured a 470 billion won ($422.05 million) construction contract for a seawater reverse
osmosis desalination (SWRO) plant in Saudi Arabia.
The contract for building the nation’s largest SWRO plant in Shoaiba, 110 km south of
Jeddah, on the coast of Red Sea, was awarded by Saudi Arabia's Saline Water Conversion
Corporation (SWCC)
As per the contract, Doosan Heavy will complete the construction of the plant as the
engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) contractor.
Once the facility is completed, it will process 400,000 m3 of sea water into fresh water a day,
to meet the requirements of 1.3 million people, and supply it to western Saudi Arabia.
The Shoaiba SROP Phase IV will be located on the Red Sea coast approximately 100 km
south-southeast of Jeddah at latitude N20°- 38’, longitude E39°- 33’.
Figure 1.3: R O Plant Phase IV Shoaiba: Project Site

It lies within the property of the existing Saline Water Conversion Corporation plant (SWCC
Shoaiba). The new Shoaiba SROP Phase IV shall be adjacent to the Existing Stage I of the R
O Plant, in KSA and will be founded to provide Western region in KSA with Fresh water
considering increase of water.
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Figure 1.4: Process of SROP Ph IV

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Figure 1.5: Project Schedule of SROP Ph IV

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1.3. The objectives of the ESIA are to provide:

• An understanding of the project and existing environmental, social and economic
values and potential impacts that may occur and measures to be adopted to mitigate
potential adverse impacts
• A framework for assessing impacts of the project in view of legislative and policy
provisions
• A mechanism for sustainable environmental outcomes, including control measures
and strategies to be implemented during the construction and operational phases
through environmental management and monitoring plans (EMMP,CEMP.DEMP
etc).
1.4. ESIA Technical Works
The overall objective of the Environmental and Social Impact Assessment Report (ESIA)
has been to provide a means whereby the adverse environmental impacts of the project are
identified and minimized through the early recognition and (where possible) avoidance of
impacts on sensitive receptors, with the development of appropriate mitigation measures for
unavoidable impacts. A monitoring programme has been recommended to address whether
the mitigation measures suggested are appropriate and effective, to assess whether the impact
prediction which is based on marine modeling is correct and to identify any additional
impacts that were not predicted through the ESIA process.
1.5. Legislative and Statutory Consultation
• Review relevant environmental regulations, rules, guidelines and standards of
kingdom of Saudi Arabia ( GERRRI 2001 , General Authority of Meteorology and
Environmental Protection (GAMEP ) Environmental Standards of 2001 and 2012).
• Hold discussions with GAMEP to agree with the methodology and scope for the
ESIA.
• Obtain approval for the scope of works and methodology from GAMEP .
1.6. Data Collection and Review
• Collect and review data available to assist in understanding SROP Ph IV coastal and
Marine baseline environmental conditions at the site. Conduct discussions with
concerned authorities as required obtaining information.
• Identifying Environmental information gaps.
________________________________________________________________________________________________ 24
1.7. Consultation and Liaison with the stake holders

• Consultation has been undertaken in the course of the ESIA to ensure that interested
parties are aware and informed of the Project and that any potential issues are
addressed appropriately. Such consultations are included:
• Hold initial meeting with M/s. Saline Water Conversion Corporation (SWCC) and
M/s. Doosan Heavy Industries and Construction Ltd,KSA (DHIC) to review the
project activities from the desk-based data review and confirm the scope of study.
• Liaise with M/s. Saline Water Conversion Corporation (SWCC) and M/s. Doosan
Heavy Industries and Construction Ltd,KSA (DHIC) to establishes communication
requirements for liaising with regulatory authorities and other agencies.
1.8. Environmental Baseline Assessment
Conduct Environmental Baseline surveys to identify broader environmental issues.
1.9. Project Categorization
1.9.1. General Environmental Regulations and Rules for Implementation 2001 (GERRI
2001)
Under this law, GAMEP is responsible for issuing or withholding its consent for projects to
ensure compliance with the Public Environmental Law and Regulations. Under this
regulation any licensing authority (other than the GAMEP) must ensure that an ESIA is
prepared during the feasibility study of any project that may have a negative impact on the
environment. Trenching of sea bed for installation of intake and outfall channels for SROP
Ph IV as per GERRI 2001, is a ‘third category project’ as it involves various activities
during the construction and operational phases that may affect the environment.
1.9.2. Equator Principle II of 2013
Equator Principles (EP) is a voluntary commitment applied in project finance to manage risks
related to environmental issues and social responsibility. The EP has been signed by 87
Equator Principles
Financial Institutions (EPFIs) in 36 countries, representing more than 70% of international
project finance debt in emerging markets.
The EP aims to reduce the negative impacts of financed projects on climate, local
communities and people. While the EP does not directly restrict a financial institution's
participation in projects, it supports the due diligence of projects as well as consideration of
social and environmental impacts in the decision-making phase.
________________________________________________________________________________________________ 25
On the basis of the environmental scoping study, consultations, baseline and desktop study,
the trenching of sea bed for installation of intake and outfall channels for SROP Ph IV will be
categorized as Category A. Following the recent completion of the required baseline surveys
and the intermediate stage of model predictions being undertaken for the ESIA, this report
now considers the project categorization under the Equator Principles that will form a part of
the final ESIA documentation.
1.10. Environmental Impact Assessment of SROP Ph IV off shore construction works
As described in detail below, an environmental impact involves a change in the environment
resulting from a designated action. In order to identify such a change, it is essential to have as
complete an understanding as is practicable of the nature of the existing environment of
SROP Ph IV , prior to its interaction with the proposed activity. This translates into the need
to characterize the existing baseline environmental position, including establishing prevailing
conditions for a range of environmental media, notably air, water, soil and groundwater, flora
and fauna and the human environment.
Impacts are defined as changes in the environment that result from an event that interacts
with it. They can be either positive or negative and actual or potential. Virtually all human
activity imposes some disturbance to aspects of the environment because of physical impacts
on natural systems or due to interactions with other human activities and natural systems. The
approach adopted to assessing the impact of the SROP Ph IV Project on the existing
environment, and defining mitigation measures, has been based on the premise that certain
potential impacts can be avoided through the careful choice of location, technology and
materials; mitigation can be incorporated into the project design in order to minimize the
likelihood and extent of impacts to the environment, further mitigation can be adopted to
address specific issues where necessary; but ultimately, some environmental impact will be
unavoidable.
These impacts are described in terms of the following:
• Frequency of impact occurrence;
• Likelihood of the impact occurring;
• Extent or the spatial extent of the impact;
• Duration of the impact;
• Magnitude of size of the impact in relation to set standard
• Type of impact, whether the impact is beneficial (positive) or detrimental
(negative);and
________________________________________________________________________________________________ 26
• Significance – overall importance of the impact.

This ESIA has sought to predict the occurrence and potential significance of environmental
impacts associated with the proposed project and to describe the measures by which they
could be avoided, reduced or remediated.
1.11. Mitigation
Where impacts of medium or high significance are identified, mitigation is proposed to
reduce the frequency, likelihood or extent (and hence the overall potential significance) of the
impact. Mitigation can come in the form of a technical solution, a change in methodology or
through sound management. Residual impacts are those that remain following impact
mitigation. It should be noted that some of the potential impacts from trenching of sea bed for
installation of intake and outfall channels for SROP Ph IV have been considered during the
design of the project and where possible and practical these impacts have been ‘designed
out’, these impacts are taken into consideration before the impact assessment has been
conducted. The identification, assessment, and presentation of mitigation options occur
throughout this document, and summarized in Chapter 8 and the Environmental Monitoring
and Management Plan to aid environmental compliance are summarized in Chapter 9.
1.12. ESIA: Structure of the Report
This document has been prepared in accordance with the requirements of GAMEP.
• Chapter 1 provides an introduction to the report
• Chapter 2 Provides the national (GAMEP) and international legislation (Equator
Principles II of 2013) and guidelines of relevance to the project.
• Chapter 3 describes the project, including the project need, and outlines the
justification for the project and its location.
• Chapter 4 Gives the Technical works used for the ESIA study
• Chapter 5 explains the existing environmental conditions at the site.
• Chapter 6 analyses of any alternatives to the project either in terms of technologies
adopted, method used, or locations.
• Chapter 7 discusses the potential impacts that may result from the project
construction
• Chapter 8 describes proposed mitigation measures and the environmental
management plan for the projects residual impacts.
• Chapter 9 outlines the proposed environmental management and monitoring plans
for the SROP Ph IV project.
________________________________________________________________________________________________ 27
• Chapter 10 provides conclusions and recommendations of the ESIA

The technical appendices are included as separate Volumes to this ESIA. Appendices are
outlined below:
• Part I – Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA)
• Part II –Environmental Field Survey Report and Appendices
• Part III –Dredging Environmental Management and Monitoring Plan (CEMP)
1.13. Terms of Reference set out for ESIA Study of off shore construction works of
Shoaiba RO Plant Phase IV Project
Task I
Description of the Proposed Project
This will provides a full description of the project and its existing setting, using maps at
appropriate scales. This is to include;
• General layout, (subdivision plan, access, type & size of construction etc)
• Pre-construction activities
• Construction methods and works
• Duration of construction phase
• Plans for providing utilities
• Waste disposal and other services
• Sewage treatment system maintenance
Task 2
Legislative and Regulatory Considerations:
This will describes the pertinent regulations and standards of Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
governing sitting and land use, control environmental quality, health and safety, protection of
sensitive areas and endangered species.
Task 3
Determine the Potential Impacts of the off shore construction works of Shoaiba RO
Plant Phase IV Project:
• Distinguish between significant:
• Positive and negative impacts
• Direct and indirect impacts
• Impacts that are unavoidable,
• Irreversible and cumulative impacts.
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Task 4
Description of the SROP Ph IV Environment:
This will assemble, evaluate and present baseline data on the relevant environment
characteristics of the Project area have to be studied. These will consider the following;
Physical Environment:
• Climate and meteorology
Biological Environment:
Coastal ,Marine Flora, fauna, rare or endangered species, sensitive habitats, species worthy of
protection, species of commercial importance and species with the potential to become
nuisances, vectors or dangerous. Protected area location or distribution maps will be used
where appropriate.
Socio-Economic Environment of SROP Ph IV Project :
Present and projected - Population, land use, other planned development, and recreation,
aesthetics, public health, cultural and historical properties etc.
Task 5
Analysis of Alternatives for SROP Ph IV off shore works:
This will describe the alternatives examined for the proposed project that would achieve the
same objective, within the same period or earlier. One of these alternatives will be the
examination of no action taken. Hence, the most environmentally friendly alternative will be
highlighted.
Task 6
Environmental Management and Monitoring Plan for SROP ph IV off shore
construction works :
This will recommend feasible and cost effective measures to prevent or minimize negative
impact to acceptable levels.
Task 7
Environmental Impact Monitoring Plan for SROP ph IV off shore construction works :
To prepare a draft plan for monitoring the implementation of mitigating measures and the
impacts of the project during the construction phase.
Task 8
Assist in Inter - Agency Coordination:
If possible required by GAMEP , assist in coordinating the review of the environmental
assessment by the relevant government agencies.
Task 9
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The environmental and social assessment report will be concise and limited to significant
environmental issues. The main text will focus on findings, conclusions and recommended
actions, supported by summary of the data collected and citations for any references used in
interpreting these data. The environmental impact assessment report will be organized
according to but not necessarily limited by those outlined below:
• Executive Summary
• Description of the Proposed for SROP ph IV off shore construction works
• Policy, Legal and Administrative Framework
• Description of Environmental Impact
• Significant Environmental Impacts
• Mitigation Measures
• Impact Monitoring Plan
• List of References
1.14. Scope of ESIA Study
The scope of this ESIA study is to:
• Describe, evaluate and present baseline data in order to develop an improved
understanding of the existing physical environment and natural processes on land and
within the coastal zone;
• Identify and discuss the potential impacts of all the trenching of sea bed for
installation of intake and outfall channels for SROP Ph IV on the existing
environment at the local, regional and national level;
• Propose effective mitigation measures for implementation during construction to
avoid, reduce or compensate for the potential environmental impacts;
• Identify the nature and scale of potential hazards at the trenching of sea bed for
installation of intake and outfall channels for SROP Ph IV , recommend potential
safety measures and emergency planning procedures, and identify applicable
legislation, standards and codes of practice in relation to the storage and handling of
hazardous materials;
• Develop an EMMP to recommend potential measures to prevent or mitigate negative
impacts;
• Identify any environmental training to be introduced in relation to the off shore
pipeline trenching works as well as the need for supplementing any existing training
programs; and
________________________________________________________________________________________________ 30
• Develop a plan to monitor and implement mitigating measures and the impacts of
trenching of sea bed for installation of intake and outfall channels for SROP Ph IV
ESIA study: Technical works
The ESIA was carried out in line with the requirements of the General Environmental
Regulations and Rules for Implementation, KSA (2001) of GAMEP . Standard Methods were
used for the Environmental assessment.
Following are the guidelines of GAMEP for any Environmental Impact Assessment for all
the developmental projects in KSA as per GERRI 2001, which was followed, for the EIA of
off shore construction works of Shoaiba RO Plant Phase IV Project
1. Presentation of the SROP Ph IV Project:
2. Description of the SROP Ph IV Project and Its Objectives:
• Goals
• Need for the SROP Ph IV project
• Components of the SROP Ph IV project construction phases
• The workforce required for implementation of the SROP Ph IV project (minimum and
maximum)
• The workforce required for the execution of the SROP Ph IV project (minimum and
maximum)
• Alternatives and options for off shore works of SROP Ph IV
3. Status of Surrounding Environment including the following:
This serves as a baseline for the SROP Ph IV project. This includes studies to establish
baseline for the following components of the Red Sea ecosystem.
• Air quality
• Soil and topography
• Oceanography
• Surface and ground water
• Coastal environment (fauna/flora)
• Marine environment (fauna/flora)
• Land use of selected site and its surroundings
• Land ownership (original owner)
4. The Environmental Assessment should include the following:
Identification of the general potential impacts of the SROP Ph IV project and suggested
alternatives.
________________________________________________________________________________________________ 31
Identification and analysis of key effects of the SROP Ph IV project on:

• Air quality
• The SROP Ph IV marine and coastal environment
• Surface and underground water
• Aquatic Flora and fauna
• Land use and urban development
• Residential clusters
• General scenic view
• Others
5. Assessment of significant Impacts:
• Quantify and rate the significant impacts on natural resources.
• Estimate the relative damage to the area and the extent of its potential.
• Estimated lifespan of the facilities.
• Studies on the possible mitigation of anticipated impacts.
6. Summary of the significant Impacts after Mitigation Processes:
This comprehensive environmental impact assessment report has been prepared according to
the requirements specified under the General Environmental Regulations and Rules for
Implementation 2001, (Prescribed by GAMEP ),EIA report was prepared in accordance with
requirements and expectations of regulatory authorities, to include:
• An explanation of the purpose and rationale for the proposed project
• An overview of GAMEP’s environmental regulatory procedures in KSA and how
these affect the project.
• A brief description of the project and its key elements
• A description of the existing environmental features of the development site
• A description of the principle environmental and socio-economic aspects and impacts
likely to be associated with the development Identification of areas of concern and the
further information gaps and aspects which may require further study to adequately
address potential impacts
• Summary of key issues, recommended mitigation actions & eco-friendly alternatives.
The study methodology established prior to the commencement of the ESIA study was as
follows:
Step I - Legislative and Statutory Consultation (Desktop Study)
________________________________________________________________________________________________ 32
• Review relevant environmental regulations, rules, guidelines (GERRI 2001) and

standards of Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (GAMEP 2001 & 2012).
• Hold discussions with Client SWCC & DHIC to agree with the methodology and
scope for the ESIA.
Step II- Data Collection and Review
• Collect and review data available to assist in understanding baseline environmental
conditions at the site.
• Conduct discussions with appropriate organizations as required obtaining such
information.
• Identifying information gaps for ESIA Study of SROP Ph IV .
Step III Liaison
• Hold initial meeting with Saline Water Conversion Corporation (SWCC) and M/S
Doosan Heavy Industries and Construction Ltd, KSA (DHIC) and to review emerging
outcomes from the desk-based data review and confirm the scope of study.
• Liaise with Saline Water Conversion Corporation (SWCC) and M/S Doosan Heavy
Industries and Construction Ltd, KSA (DHIC) to establish communication
requirements for liaising with regulatory authorities and other agencies.
Step IV Environmental Field Surveys and their mitigation measures
• Conduct field surveys to identify critical environmental issues.
Step V Identification of Key Environmental Impacts
Identify the key environmental impacts associated with SROP Ph IV off shore construction
based on information collected on baseline conditions and related activities.
Development of Mitigation Measures
Identify feasible and recommend and cost-effective measures to prevent, mitigate or
compensate for impacts.
Required additional Studies
Propose the commissioning of additional specialist studies necessary for completion of
eventual Environmental Impact Assessment (matrices).
Equator Principles
The ten Equator Principles are:
Principle 1: Review and categorization;
Principle 2: Social and environmental assessment;
Principle 3: Applicable Social and Environmental Standards;
________________________________________________________________________________________________ 33
Principle 4: Action plan and management system;

Principle 5: Consultation and disclosure
Principle 6: Grievance mechanism;
Principle 7: Independent review;
Principle 8: Covenant’s;
Principle 9: Independent monitoring and reporting;
Principle 10: Equator Principles Financial Institution’s (EPFI) reporting.
Principle 1 classifies projects in 3 categories:
Category A: Projects with potential significant adverse social or environmental impacts that
is diverse, irreversible or unprecedented;
Category B: Projects with potential limited adverse social or environmental impacts that are
few in number, generally site-specific, largely reversible and readily addressed through
mitigation measures; and;
Category C: Projects with minimal or no social or environmental impacts.
Projects that are classified as Category A or B are required to complete and disclose a Social
and Environmental Assessment (SEA). This is defined as a process that `determines the
social and environmental impacts and risks (including labour, health and safety) of a
proposed project in its area of influence' (Equator Principles, Statement of Principles, July
2006).According to the classification above, trenching of sea bed for installation of intake
and outfall channels for SROP Ph IV project is a Category A project. The Assessment
Documentation should propose measures to minimize, mitigate, and offset adverse impacts in
a manner relevant and appropriate to the nature and scale of the Project.
Key Potential Impacts
1.15. Potential Impacts on the Bathymetry of Red Sea Coast at the SROP Ph IV
The key potential impacts on bathymetry from the dredging and reclamation activities of the
SROP Ph IV project are as follows:
• Removal of sub tidal benthic species and communities along the trenching of sea bed
for installation of intake and outfall channels for SROP Ph IV
• Loss of habitats and decrease in biodiversity along the route for channel trenches ;
• Loss of habitat and decrease in biodiversity at the spoil disposal site;
• Temporary increased levels of turbidity during the Trench excavation operations,
which releases and disperses suspended sediments into the water column including
organic matter, nutrients and possibly contaminants; and
________________________________________________________________________________________________ 34
• Smothering of sub-tidal and intertidal communities via redistribution of sediments.

• Changes to bathymetry are expected to remain long term in trenched areas, however
the potential impacts are short term.
• impacts of Trenching /dredging is presented under impacts on Marine Flora and
Fauna which are expected to be medium term (approximately 1 – 2 years) and
reversible with appropriate management.
1.16. Potential Impacts on the Coastal Processes of SROP Ph IV
The key potential impacts on coastal processes from construction are as follows:
• Prevention of waves reaching the surf zone;
• Interruption of long shore sediment transport generally resulting in sediment
accretion.
• The impacts to coastal processes are considered to be short term and of a low
magnitude due to the placement of the structures in the marine environment.
However, these impacts can be minimized and compensated if appropriately
managed.
1.17. Potential Impacts on the Marine Water Quality of SROP Ph IV off shore area
The impacts of trenching of sea bed for installation of intake and outfall channels for SROP
Ph IV activities that could potentially impact on marine water quality are as follows:
• Potential spills of pollutants during construction (fuels, lubricants, chemicals).
• Trenching of sea bed for installation of intake and outfall channels for SROP Ph IV
etc.
• Reclamation of coastal areas.
• Dredging activities in particular could impact on marine water quality due to:
o Direct loss of marine habitat (potentially including coral and rock reefs, sea grass
and algal beds);
o Increased turbidity from rock placement for breakwater, channel dredging, pile
driving and excavations;
o Nutrient and hydrocarbon suspension; and
• Potential spills and leaks from dredges and other marine vessels involved in the
dredging.
The marine water quality impact is considered to be major locally and moderate on a regional
scale. However, impacts to water quality due to dredging and disposal of dredge spoil are
expected to be temporary and can be mitigated through utilizing appropriate technology and
________________________________________________________________________________________________ 35
implementing appropriate management measures including monitoring before, during and

after dredging and disposal operations.
Potential for impacts from spills or leaks contaminating marine waters during construction is
considered minor and temporary; however, mitigation measures are proposed to protect water
quality.
1.18. Potential Impacts on the Air Quality
The key potential impacts on air quality from construction are as follows:
• Dust generated from construction activities including:
o Disturbance of the arid land surface;
o Movement of construction vehicles on unsealed roadways;
o Wind blowing over unprotected stockpiled and exposed soils, particularly those
that are unconsolidated;
o Loading and unloading of materials on site; and
• Emissions from uncovered truckloads;
• Exhaust (and greenhouse gas) emissions from construction vehicles, plant, machinery
and vessels. Exhaust emissions are likely to include nitrogen oxides (NOx), carbon
monoxide (CO), sulphur oxides (SO2), hydrocarbons (HC), ozone (O3) and total
suspended particulates (TSP);
• Volatile emissions can impact workers health through:
o Improper on site storage of volatile fuels and chemicals;
o Inadequate provision of suitable workers’ amenities; and
• Construction odours (from painting, welding or grinding) could impact upon workers
in the vicinity of the activity if it is not properly ventilated or adequate protection
equipment is not provided;
• Odour from workers accommodation camp.
Air emissions are unlikely to exceed GAMEP guidelines due to construction activities, and
given the distance to the nearest sensitive receptor, it is considered that emissions generated
by construction activities will be minimal if appropriate mitigation measures are
implemented.
1.19. Potential Impacts from the Noise during off shore construction works of SROP Ph
IV
The key potential noise impacts from construction are as follows:
• The noise from construction equipment;
________________________________________________________________________________________________ 36
• Trucks delivering materials and vehicles transporting construction personnel to and

from site; and
• Excavation, earthworks and other site activities.
• However, due to the distance to the nearest sensitive receptor (approximately 4 km)
the impacts are likely to be minimal, and it is predicted that GAMEP standards, EP II
2013 and World Bank noise guidelines of 70 dBA can be met for construction noise.
• Impacts on the Terrestrial and Coastal Flora and Fauna
• The key potential impacts on terrestrial flora and fauna from construction are as
follows:
o Destruction of habitat of Birds ,
o Loss of beach and rock roosting / nesting sites; and
o Soil disturbance through the use of heavy trucks;
Since the construction is in marine environment, there is no impact on Coastal and Terrestrial
flora and fauna, and therefore the impacts are considered none. However underwater noise
will be there, which is of short duration. The physical barriers will be installed to mitigate
underwater noise.
1.20. Potential Impacts on the Marine Flora and Fauna
The impacts of trenching of sea bed for installation of intake and outfall channels for SROP
Ph IV activities that could potentially impact on marine flora and fauna are as follows:
• The removal of sandy habitat with some sea grass and coral reef patches during
area;
• Potential impacts to the local fisheries due to:
o Modification of habitats;
o Destruction of breeding grounds;
o Modification of tidal / subtidal / intertidal lands; and
o Impact of discharges on fishing resources;
• Direct loss of marine habitat;
• Turbidity and sedimentation impacts; and
• Alteration of habitat and community composition at the proposed SROP Ph IV site.
The potential impact is locally significant, and considered medium to long term.
Recommendations for mitigation measures to reduce impacts to marine flora and fauna has
been made as part of this ESIA, and will be implemented to reduce potential impact.
________________________________________________________________________________________________ 37
1.21. Potential Impacts from the Waste generation

The likely waste sources during trenching of sea bed for installation of intake and outfall
channels for SROP Ph IV are as follows:
• Excess construction materials, including off cuts and packaging;
• Excess excavation materials;
• Food wastes;
• Site office wastes; and
• Human waste.
Implementation of appropriate mitigation should reduce the potential for waste generation
and impacts from its disposal during construction. Impacts from waste are therefore
considered minimal.
1.22. Identified Mitigation Measures to reduce the impacts of Potential impacts from off
shore construction works of SROP Ph IV
To address the potential environmental impacts, the ESIA recommends mitigation measures
to avoid or minimize the potential environmental impacts resulting from the trenching of sea
bed for installation of intake and outfall channels for SROP Ph IV and other activities.
1.22.1. Mitigation measures to reduce the effect on Bathymetry of SROP Ph IV off shore
area
Following mitigation measures are recommended to reduce effect on Bathymetry:
• Reuse any excess excavation material generated by the excavation within the SROP
Ph IV off shore site or dispose off at deep sea ; and
• Implement the dredging management measures identified under Part IV : Dredging
Environmental Management Plan.
1.22.2. Mitigation measures to reduce the effect on Coastal Processes at SROP Ph IV
Following mitigation measures are recommended to mitigate effect on Coastal Processes:
• Develop and implement a monitoring plan to determine the extent of coastal erosion
and accretion occurring as a result of dredging works;
• Investigate appropriate measures to mitigate erosion and accretion including
engineering techniques.
1.22.3. Mitigation measures to reduce the effect on the Marine Water Quality
Following mitigation measures are recommended to mitigate effect on the Marine Water
Quality:
Implementation of the spill response mitigation measures
________________________________________________________________________________________________ 38
• Dredging vessels excavating the pipeline trenches should be restricted to designated

areas wherever possible;
• Equipment and vessels should be in good working order and not leaking fuel or
volatile emissions;
• Appropriate storage and handling of fuels and chemicals on vessels;
• Daily inspection of the water surface in the surrounding sea for any visual signs of
recent pollution;
• DHIC should select a dredging methodology that minimizes the suspension of
sediments and provides a higher degree of precision in dredging;
• Suspension of dredging activities during un-favourable weather conditions;
• Develop and implement a sediment sampling and analysis program to determine the
existence and extent of sediment contamination in the basin and channel;
• Investigate the selection of an appropriate dredge material spoil ground away from
sensitive coral reef and sea grass habitat; and
• Development and implementation of mitigation measures to minimize and control
impacts at the selected spoil ground.
1.22.4. Mitigation measures to reduce the effect on the Air Quality at SROP Ph IV
Following mitigation measures are recommended to mitigate effect on the Air Quality:
• Control of Exhaust Emissions
• A manifest of all machinery used (including date of manufacture, hours of operation,
maintenance schedule, fuel type and emissions control devices installed) should be
kept on site by the DHIC Site Manager;
• Proper and efficient use and operation of construction vehicles, plant and machinery
by qualified and skilled personnel (in accordance with the manufacturer’s
instructions);
• Use of appropriate fuels, including low sulphur diesel and unleaded petrol in
accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions;
• Regular maintenance and inspections for all construction vehicles, plant and
machinery (to be documented and checked by DHIC Site Manager’s representative)
in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions;
• Minimize unnecessary idling and operation of earthwork and construction machinery,
including efficiency of trip times and reduction of double handling through
appropriate placement of stockpiles, haul roads, works depots and work areas. This
________________________________________________________________________________________________ 39
will also aid in fuel efficiency and will assist in reducing overall costs associated with
unnecessary fuel consumption;
• Daily visual checks by a representative of the DHIC Site Manager to ensure the above
criteria are followed, particularly in regards to smoky emissions from vehicles,
vessels and plant; and
• Equipment with excessive visual emissions should be given defect notices and taken
out of service until repaired.
• The above mitigation measures will also assist in reducing the emissions of carbon
dioxide and nitrogen dioxide, which are greenhouse gases.
1.22.4.1. Control of Volatile Emissions
Following management measures should be adopted during construction to minimize the
generation of volatile emissions from solvents, paints and fuels stored or used at the proposed
dredging site:
Ensure all machinery is in good order and repair, and not leaking fuel or volatile emissions
from fuel tanks or fuel lines;
The number of fuel and chemical storage areas should be minimized and properly managed.
A full list of all volatile fuels and chemicals stored on site should be kept by the DHIC Site
Manager, including accompanying volumes, locations and Material Safety Data Sheets
(MSDS);
Ensure proper on site storage of volatile fuels and chemicals in appropriately sealed
containers, and in cool, covered areas with adequate venting. Avoid on site storage of highly
volatile fuels, such as unleaded petrol, and volatile chemicals such, as solvents and oil-based
paints.
The above measures will also assist in safety regarding the use and storage of dangerous
goods.
1.22.5. Mitigation measures to reduce the effects of Odour
In order to minimize potential odour emissions, there should be provision of appropriate
temporary amenities for construction laborers and visitors to the proposed dredging site.
Amenities should be well maintained and effluent storage facilities frequently emptied by a
GAMEP certified wastewater contractor for off-site treatment and disposal.
1.22.6. Mitigation measures to reduce the effects of Noise
Following mitigation measures are recommended to reduce Noise levels:
________________________________________________________________________________________________ 40
• Ensure all plant, machinery and vehicles are fitted with appropriate mufflers, and that
all mufflers and acoustic treatments are in good working order;
• Ensure all plant, machinery and vehicles are regularly maintained and broken parts
(such as mufflers) are replaced immediately;
• Ensure all plant, machinery and vehicles are operated efficiently and according to the
manufacturers specifications, by trained and qualified operators; and
• Development and implementation of appropriate safety measures for site personnel,
including the provision of suitable hearing protection.
• Adhere to KSA Noise standards
1.22.7. Mitigation measures to reduce the effect on the Terrestrial Flora and Fauna
Since the construction activity is will be off shore, there are no impacts on terrestrial
components. Hence no mitigation measures are recommended. The impacts on terrestrial
flora and Fauna are addressed in On shore ESIA of SROP Ph IV
1.22.8. Mitigation measures to reduce the effect on the Marine Flora and Fauna
Following mitigation measures are recommended to mitigate effect on the Marine Flora and
Fauna:
• Implement the marine water quality impact mitigation measures as previously
explained;
• Design and implement a sediment sampling and analysis program as explained in
Part III CEMP of this ESIA to determine the existence and concentration of potential
anthropogenic and natural sources of contamination in areas proposed for dredging;
• If a sediment sampling and analysis program identifies levels of contamination
beyond acceptable international standards for ocean disposal, investigate
economically viable options to manage disposal of dredge spoil;
• Investigate locations for an appropriate spoil disposal ground including:
o A benthic infauna and epi-benthic habitat
o ground including:
o A benthic infauna and epi-benthic habitat
o Habitat and thus avoid sediment deposition on benthic and epi-benthic
communities.
o Develop and implement a marine ecology and water quality monitoring
program for the construction phase of the project.
________________________________________________________________________________________________ 41
1.22.9. Mitigation measures to reduce the effect on the Social Environment

No mitigation measures are required as there are no impacts on the Social Environment are
anticipated from the project, identified by socio economic studies conducted for SROP Ph IV
which are detailed in on shore ESIA of SROP Ph IV .
1.22.10. Mitigation measures to reduce the impacts from Waste generation
Following mitigation measures are recommended to reduce the impact Waste generation:
• Develop and implement a Waste Management Plan (WMP) that includes the
following management measures:
• Efficient ordering and use of construction materials to avoid generation of excess
materials and waste;
• Reuse of excess excavated material within the site.
• Provision of appropriate containers to dispose of putrescible and food waste that will
prevent access by local fauna and pest species (Workers accommodation );
• Order construction materials with limited packaging, where practical;
• Separation of reusable and recyclable materials from other waste streams;
• Hazardous wastes should be handled, stored, transported and disposed of in
accordance with GAMEP guidelines;
• Wastes should be regularly transported from the project site to appropriate waste
management facilities or landfills;
• No waste materials are to be disposed of onsite; and
• Human waste should be collected and transported for disposal at an appropriate
facility by a licensed operator. (Workers accommodation )
1.23. Conclusions and Recommendations
1.23.1. Conclusions
The environmental and social impact assessment study for off shore construction works of
Shoaiba RO Plant Phase IV Project has been presented in compliance with the General
Environmental Regulations and Rules for Implementation (GERRI, 2001) of the Kingdom of
Saudi Arabia and Equator Principles II 2013. The environmental management study assures
compliance with the regulatory requirements; identifies and analyzes sensitive components of
the existing environment; determines the type, nature and importance of the probable
environmental impacts during construction and operation; identifies and recommends
practical effective mitigation measures; recommends a framework for an environmental
management and monitoring plan for the off shore construction works of Shoaiba RO Plant
________________________________________________________________________________________________ 42
Phase IV Project; and ensures that all stakeholders deemed to be influenced by the projects
or activities are fully considered.
trenching of sea bed for installation of intake and outfall channels for SROP Ph IV project
will not lead to any significant impacts on various environmental components and marine life
after the recommended mitigation. The most significant impacts will occur during dredging
and Intake and outfall pipelines installation works. These are anticipated to be short-term and,
providing full mitigation is applied, the baseline condition will have largely returned to the
predevelopment conditions after a very short period.
The future development of the SROP Ph IV is expected to commence, dredging activities
impacts which are limited to the SROP Ph IV project site and adjacent areas only. the
development and protection of the environment should be protected in the best possible way.
The recommended mitigation measures addressed in Chapter 10 and Table 10.1, the
environmental management and monitoring recommendations addressed in the chapter 9.0
have to be followed, it is anticipated that the negative impacts will not lead to any significant
effects.
1.23.2. Recommendations
Fine sediments are likely to be released into the water column during the dredging and
installation of intake and outfall pipelines. These will be transported by the waves and
currents and deposited onto the coral reef under certain environmental conditions. The
sediments will be suspended; either partially or fully and dispersed over a substantial area due
to magnitude of the sheer stress of waves and currents. It is highly recommended that silt
curtains to be used, which will form as a physical barrier to the transport of fine sediments.
The use of best equipment and barges will also minimize this impact dramatically. Timing is
also plays an important role in controlling the transport of sediments as the impact will
multiply when the waves are strong. Complete mitigations are discussed in the chapter 8 of
this study.
The quality and quantity of the discharged material could cause an impact to the marine life if
it is not monitored and applied the proper means to eliminate or at least to minimize the
impact. Proper monitoring sensors need to be put in place to monitor the temperature of the
discharged water. Also by increasing the retention time by installing proper diffusers at the
discharge point would help in reducing the temperature as well as minimizing the impact at
the discharge point to the marine environment. Constant monitoring is to make sure that the
temperature is within ≤ 3°C temperature increase limit from the ambient marine temperature
________________________________________________________________________________________________ 43
at 100 meters the point of discharge is recommended. Below are other recommendations
applicable to the off shore construction works of Shoaiba RO Plant Phase IV Project.
• Sediment Control Measures
• Installation of Silt Curtains
• Retention Ponds
• Continuous Water Quality Monitoring
• Marine Habitat Monitoring
• Underwater Noise and Vibration Monitoring
• Monitoring of Coral Reef
• Environmental Monthly Monitoring
In addition to these the off shore construction works of Shoaiba RO Plant Phase IV Project
DHIC/SWCC should implement the following plans
• Environmental Management and Monitoring Plan (EMMP)
• Dredging Environmental Management Plan (DEMP)
• Environmental Plans includes
o Surface Water Environmental Management Plan
o Sediment and Erosion Control Environmental Management Plan
o Turbidity Management Plan
o Air and Noise Management Plan
o Waste Management Plan
________________________________________________________________________________________________ 44
SECTION 2: REVIEW OF ENVIRONMENTAL

REGULATIONS
________________________________________________________________________________________________ 45
SECTION 2: REVIEW OF ENVIRONMENTAL REGULATIONS

2.1. General
This section of the ESIA Report discusses the policy, legal and institutional arrangement /
framework within which this ESIA was drawn. Specific statutes guiding the project include:
• KSA legislations – General Authority of Meteorology and Environmental Protection
(GAMEP ), (GER 2001)
• World Bank / IFC guidelines
• Equator Principle II of 2013
• Six (6) member Committee
In addition to these, Saudi Arabia contributes to many regional and international
organizations that are concerned with the protection of environment and conservation of
natural resources, such as the United Nations Environment Program, World Health
Organization, United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization, World Meteorological
Organization etc.
Saudi Arabia is a member of the International Labour Organization (ILO). The ILO is
devoted to advancing opportunities for women and men to obtain decent and productive work
in conditions of freedom, equity, security and human dignity. Its main aims are to promote
rights at work, encourage decent employment opportunities, enhance social protection and
strengthen dialogue in handling work-related issues.
2.2. Environmental Regulatory Framework in KSA

The General Authority of Meteorology and Environmental Protection (GAMEP ) is the
governmental body in charge of all environment related issues in the Kingdom of Saudi
Arabia. GAMEP’s primary role is to spread environmental awareness among all members of
Saudi society and provide protection for present and future generations. Any company
looking to do business in the Saudi environmental market must obtain a license from
GAMEP.Other than GAMEP, various other ministries and government agencies to develop
relevant policies strategies, regulations and standards, which include:
Ministry of Agriculture: is responsible for the implementation of all aspects of Kingdom’s

agricultural policy. This Ministry is also responsible for animal resources, fisheries, grain
silos, and locust control.
________________________________________________________________________________________________ 46
Ministry of Water and Electricity: is to prepare a comprehensive plan to establish water

and sewage networks all over the Kingdom. It will also develop the country’s water policies
and propose new regulations to preserve water.
Ministry of Municipal and Rural Affairs: is responsible for the administration of the
municipalities throughout the Kingdom. Its primary functions include city and town planning,
and the development and maintenance of the basic infrastructure, such as roads, town
cleaning and hygiene.
Ministry of Commerce and Industry: is responsible for all aspects of commercial and
industrial activity in the Kingdom.
National Commission for Wildlife Conservation and Development: is responsible for
biodiversity conservation in Saudi Arabia.
Other Ministries includes Ministries of Health, Finance and National Economy and Planning,
etc.
By Royal Decree # 34 dated 28-07-1422 (corresponding to October 2002) and the Decision
of the Council of Ministers #193 dated 07-07-1422 (corresponding to October 2002),
GAMEP has set up environmental regulations applicable to projects and facilities operating
in the Kingdom. These regulations are applicable to new industrial and developmental
projects. Projects and facilities existing at the time the regulations were released have up to 5
years from the date of issuance for total compliance.
2.2.1. KSA Regulations and Standards Applicable to the Shoaiba RO Plant Phase IV
Project
Based on the classifications of Industries and Development Projects in Appendix 2 of the
GERRI 2001 from the PME now renamed as GAMEP, the project can be classified as a
Category 3 which needs a comprehensive Environmental Impact Assessment Study before
the implementation. The main requirements applicable to this project include those prescribed
for:
• Impact on soil, water and air characteristics (biological, chemical, physical and
geographical characteristics)
• Determining the significance of the ecological impacts.
• Emissions inventory to indicate the sources, baseline and incremental concentrations
• Accidental spills during loading, unloading, shipments and during operation
• Phytoplankton bloom
• Fish diseases and diseases outbreak.
________________________________________________________________________________________________ 47
• Culture method/system, species and stocking density

• Unaesthetic views of seascapes
• Release of any chemicals and therapeutics
• Environmental Emergency
2.2.2 ESIA Requirements in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
An ESIA requirement in the Kingdom Saudi Arabia is summarized in Figure 2.1.
Figure 2.1 EIA Requirements in Saudi Arabia

2.3. National & Regional Legislations
2.3.1. The Basic Law of Governance 1992
The Basic Law (commonly referred to as the Constitution) of KSA was adopted in 1992.
Article 32 of the Basic Law states that “the state works for the preservation, protection, and
improvement of the environment, and for the prevention of pollution” (Al Jadaan and Mercer,
2002)
2.3.2. Islamic Law
Islamic law sharia, in the form of the Holy Qur’an and hadith requires that the environment
be protected. This relates primarily to the treatment of animals with kindness and suitable
utilization of land and conservation of water. There are prescribed punishments for wanton
damage to the environment.
________________________________________________________________________________________________ 48
2.3.3. Environmental Regulations of the GAMEP

The environmental regulations of GAMEP are provided in the General Environmental
Regulations (GER) released in 2002. The various sections of these regulations are
summarized below:
• Articles 1-18 describes the roles and responsibilities of GAMEP and the licensing
agencies, requirements for new and existing facilities, requirements for compliance
with standards and protection of the environment and fines and penalties;
• Environmental Protection Standards in Appendix 1 of the GER namely for Ambient
Air Quality, Point Source Emission and Wastewater Pre-Treatment and Direct
Discharge Standards and Receiving Water Guidelines;
• Basis and Procedures for Environmental Evaluation of Developmental and Industrial
Projects are provided in Appendix 2 of the GER and includes requirements for
environmental assessments;
• Manual of Environmental Rehabilitation Procedures are provided in Appendix 3 of
the GER and details the various environmental activities (services) that require
certification from GAMEP. The requirements to obtain certification are also specified
therein;
• Rules and Procedures for Hazardous Waste Management are provided in Appendix 4
of the GER and details requirements to identify and manage hazardous and non-
hazardous wastes from generation to disposal or treatment;
• The National Contingency Plan for Combating Marine Pollution by Oil and Other
Harmful Substances is provided in Appendix 5 of the GER and details the procedures,
requirements, roles and responsibilities for responding to an oil spill and subsequent
clean-up activities; and
• The Types of Contraventions and Nature of Fines are provided in Appendix 6 of the
GER and details the various fines and penalties for violation and contravention of the
requirements.
• General Environmental Regulations and Rules for Implementation, 2001
The first comprehensive Saudi Arabian national environmental legislation was enacted on
24thSeptember 2001 in the form of the General Environmental Regulation, Council of
Ministers Resolution No. 193. It entered into force on 31stOctober 2002, and its
Implementing Rules were published on 30thSeptember 2003.
________________________________________________________________________________________________ 49
The legislation sets out wide-ranging prohibitions of pollution and contamination of air, land
and water, with particular reference to all parties involved in services, industry or other
economic activities. Owners of “projects”, which are defined as utilities and facilities which
may have an effect on the environment, are required to comply with existing and future
environmental specifications, standards, measurements and guidelines as promulgated by the
GAMEP and set out in the appendices of the Implementing Rules. Moreover, prior to the
setting up of a project, an environmental evaluation study must be completed and approved
by the GAMEP.
The detail of the legislation is contained in the appendices of the Implementing Rules, as
follows:
Appendix 1: Environmental Protection Standards
Appendix 2: Procedures for the Assessment of Environmental Effects of Industrial and

Development Projects
Appendix 3: Manual of Environmental Qualification Procedures
Appendix 4: Rules and Procedures for the Control of Hazardous Waste
Appendix 5: National Contingency Plan for Combating Pollution by Oil and other Harmful
Substances of the Marine Environment in Emergency Cases
Appendix 6: Violations and Fines
Under this law, GAMEP is responsible for issuing or withholding its consent for projects to
ensure compliance with the Public Environmental Law and Regulations. Under this
regulation any licensing authority (other than the GAMEP) must ensure that an ESIA is
prepared during the feasibility study of any project that may have a negative impact on the
environment. Project with negative impacts are categorized into three classes, by which an
initial environmental assessment application is required for each class of project. The classes
are:
A class I project must prepare a simple report describing the project
A class II project must prepare a brief environmental technical report with technical
information of the project
A class III project must prepare a comprehensive Environmental Impact Assessment report.
The off shore construction works of Shoaiba RO Plant Phase IV Project may involve with
various activities which may affect the environment. Therefore the subject project will come
________________________________________________________________________________________________ 50
under Class III and a comprehensive environmental impact assessment is required in the
planning stage.
Based on the classifications of Industries and Development Projects in Appendix 2 of the

GERRI from the GAMEP, the subject projects will be classified as a Category 3 project for
which a comprehensive Environmental Impact Assessment needs to be carried out in the
planning stage. The main requirements applicable to this project.
Table 2.1 below summarizes the various requirements and standards of GAMEP that are
applicable to the project.
Table 2.1: Review of Regulatory Requirements and Standards of the GAMEP

Regulatory GAMEP requirements in the GERRI Applicable Requirements
Provision
Environmental Appendix 2 (Basis and Procedures for Project will be classified as a
Permit Environmental Evaluation of Industries Category III Project
and Development Projects) classifies Project must conduct an
projects as either Category I (No Impact), Environmental Impact Assessment
Category II (Significant Impact localized), (EIA) in line with Appendix 2-4 of
or Category III (Significant Impact beyond the GERRI
Shoaiba R O Plant boundaries) Project to comply with EIA
Environmental Evaluation requirements recommendations and any other
are stated separately for each category of standards and requirements
Appendix 2 of the Regulations prescribed by GAMEP.
Air Quality Ambient Air Quality Standards and Impact on air quality from
monitoring requirements are provided for emissions not to exceed ambient
SO2, NO2, Ozone, CO, H2S and Fluorides standards
in Section 10 of Appendix 1 Comply with point source emissions
(Environmental Protection Standards) of standards in particular requirements
the GERRI. Point Source Emission for combustion facilities
Standards are provided for various
facilities and or industries including –
combustion facilities, petroleum and
petrochemical (storage tanks, FCC Units,
Gas Fuel burning, VOC, operations), etc.
Water and Direct Discharge Standards for discharge Discharges to the marine
Groundwater to a receiving water body, Pre-Treatment environment to comply with direct
standards for discharge to a Wastewater discharge standards of GAMEP.
Treatment Plant and Receiving Water Impact on the marine environment
Guidelines for permissible allowable from discharge not to exceed the
changes in water quality - are provided in GAMEP’s receiving water
Appendix 1 (Environmental Protection Guidelines.
Standards) of the GERRI Comply with Article 13
Article 13 of the GERRI requires measures requirements to provide measures
to be provided to prevent soil and for prevention of soil and
groundwater contamination for toxic and groundwater contamination
high concentration non toxic substances
Hazardous Article 13 of the GERRI requires measures Comply with Article 13
Materials to be provided to prevent groundwater requirements to provide measures
contamination from toxic substances for prevention of soil and
________________________________________________________________________________________________ 51
groundwater contamination
Hazardous and Hazardous waste management
Comply with requirements for
Non Hazardous requirements are stated in Article 14 of the
‘Hazardous Waste Generator’
Waste GERRI and Appendix 4 (Rules and (Comply with requirements to use
Management Procedures for Hazardous Waste
approved transportation agencies
Management) and disposal/treatment facilities. For
transboundary movement comply
with BASEL convention)
Noise Article 15 of the GERRI requires the use Use low noise equipment/
of low noise equipment and technologies. technology in the process
(No standards have been prescribed)
Environmental Article 9 and Article 17 of the GERRI Ensure emergency response plans at
Accidents and require projects to establish plans in the include response to
Emergency consultation with the authorities to environmental emergency situations
respond to environmental emergency such as oil and chemical spills
situations.
Conservation of Article 8 requires projects to implement as Comply with Article 8
Natural feasible, conservation measures and requirements. Measures could
Resources rationalize use of natural resources include waste minimization, water
conservation and energy
conservation.
Article 5 of the General Environmental Law states that licensing agencies must verify that
environmental impact assessment is undertaken at the feasibility stage for projects that may
have negative environmental effects.
Appendix 1 of the Rules for Implementation presents environmental protection standards for
ambient air quality, air pollution sources, receiving waters, liquid discharges and pre-
treatment processes. GAMEP is declared the sole authority in determining the meaning and
scope of the standards, and may also grant exemptions.
The environmental protection standards considered relevant to this Project (including KSA
legislation and international standards) are listed in Appendix 2 of this document.
Appendix 2 of the Rules for Implementation presents standards for environmental impact
assessment of industrial and development projects. The standards applicable to a project
depend on its initial classification. The proposed Shoaiba RO Plant Phase IV Project is
classified in the Third Category, which includes projects ‘with serious environmental
impacts’: those whose operation are expected to have serious negative effects on man and the
environment, and thus require a comprehensive environmental impact assessment.
A Third Category project requires assessment by a qualified consultant approved by the

Competent Agency, and according to the general guidelines included as Appendix 2.4 to the
Rules for Implementation.
These guidelines state that the assessment must include:
________________________________________________________________________________________________ 52
1. Presentation of the Project:

2. Description of the Project and Its Objectives:
• Goals
• Need for the project
• Components of the project various phases
• Various activities involved in the dredging and reclamation works of SROP Ph IV
construction
This serves as a baseline for the project. Existing condition of the project site was determined
by documents review, field surveys and consultations. This includes
• Climate
• Air quality
• Geology and Soil
• Ground water Quality
• Sea Water Quality
• Terrestrial and Marine Ecosystem
• Socio-Economic Conditions.
♦ Identification of the general potential impacts of the project and suggested alternatives.
♦ Identification and analysis of key effects of the project on:
• Air quality
• Surface and underground water quality
• Terrestrial and marine ecosystem
• Land use
• Local population
• Aesthetic view
• Others
________________________________________________________________________________________________ 53
2.3.4 National Coastal Zone Management Requirements, December 1987

This document uses the results of studies that, GAMEP carried out examining the coastal
environment to manage and plan coastal and marine protectorates, fisheries and coastal
development projects. Future development and the use of coastal and marine resources need
to be planned within a comprehensive coastal zone management program. This will provide a
method of directing future growth, while reducing environmental problems associated with
present human activities. The document looks at:
• Summary of Coastal and Marine Resources.
• Coastal and Marine Uses and their Environmental effects.
• A National Coastal Zone Management Program.
2.3.4.1. Future development and the use of the coastal zone management program
This will provide a method of directing future growth, while reducing environmental
problems associated with present human activities.
2.3.4.2. Coastal Policies, Legislation and other Regulatory instruments in Saudi Arabia
The Government of Saudi Arabia has taken several steps and decisions to control and protect
the coastal environment. The most salient of these are listed below.
2.3.4.2.1. Environment Protection Standards
These are contained in Document No.1401-01, 1402H (1982), GAMEP Ministry of Defense
and Aviation Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
2.3.2.2. National Oil Spill and Hazardous Substances Contingency Plan
This plan is set in Decision No. 157 dated 20/11/1411 H, (June 1991) by the Council of
Ministers. This decision called for the formation of a committee from six governmental
bodies, to be involved in the implementation of this plan. Members of this committee are:
 Ministry of Defense and Aviation :GAMEP
 Ministry of Interior Coastal Guards and Defense
 Ministry of Petroleum and Minerals
 Port Authority
 Ministry of Municipalities and Rural Areas
 NCWCD
2.3.4.3Fisheries Regulations
Rule for implementation of the Saudi Arabian Regulations for Fishing, Exploitation and
Protection of Living Aquatic Resources in the Territorial Waters of the Kingdom of Saudi
________________________________________________________________________________________________ 54
Arabia issued under Ministerial Resolution No. 21911 (27-03-1409 H), Nov.1988,
administered by Ministry of Agriculture.
2.3.5. Labour and Workmen Law
Under Saudi Arabian law, the employment relationship between employer and employee is
governed comprehensively by the Labor and Workmen’s Law (the Labor Law). It contains
provisions designed to protect workers against environmental hazards.
2.3.6. Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) – Public Environmental Law, 2001
The Public Environment Law provides a general regulatory framework for the development
and enforcement of environmental rules and regulations and assigns general responsibility to
the GAMEP.
The Public Environmental Law (PEL) was enacted by Royal Decree No. M/34 dated
28/7/1422 H (corresponding to 16th October 2001), and was published in the Official Gazette
number 3868 dated 24/8/1422 H (corresponding to 9th November 2001). The PEL creates a
general regulatory framework for the development and enforcement of environmental rules
and regulations, and assigns general responsibility for this to the General Authority of
Meteorology and Environmental Protection (GAMEP) . Interalia, GAMEP is responsible
for:
• Conducting environmental studies;
• Documenting and publishing the results of any environmental studies;
• Preparing, issuing and reviewing relevant environmental standards;
• Ensuring compliance with relevant environmental standards;
• Working in conjunction with other governmental agencies, establishing plans to deal
with environmental disasters.
• Promoting general awareness for the protection of the environment.
• Environmental monitoring; and
• Updating of Environmental Standards.
The PEL anticipates that GAMEP will co-ordinate with other governmental agencies in the
development and enforcement of environmental standards, and that GAMEP, together with
other relevant government agencies, will have the power to impose penalties for violations of
any applicable environmental standards, where no such penalties are already in place.
Under the PEL, polluting the sea and land of Saudi Arabia with 'toxic, nuclear or other
similar dangerous materials' may be punished by:
 Imprisonment for a period not exceeding five years;
________________________________________________________________________________________________ 55
 A fine not exceeding SAR 500,000;

 Cessation or suspension of business activities for a period not exceeding 90 days;
 Seizure and confiscation of machinery which is the cause of pollution, including, but
not limited to, ships for a period not exceeding 90 days;
 The payment of a sum, in respect of compensation commensurate to the damage
caused by the pollution; and/or
 Clean up.
Other acts of pollution may be punished by a fine not exceeding SAR 10,000; and/or
rectification of any damage and cleaning up.
Importantly, the PEL places an obligation on those 'lending funds' to consider compliance
with applicable environmental standards as a pre - condition to the approval loan. Although
the definition of those lending funds is not explicit, it would be prudent for commercial
lenders to assume that this requirement applies to their lending activities. Requiring a
borrower to obtain the appropriate GAMEP consent would also be prudent.
2.3.7. Implementing Rules for the Public Environmental Protection Law 2003
Under the implementing rules, any licensing authority (other than the GAMEP) that is
responsible for issuing a license to projects that may have an adverse environmental impact,
must ensure that an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) is carried out by the applicant
during the project feasibility stage.
Environmental Protection Standards (General Standards)
The Environmental Protection Standards (General Standards) came into force on the first of
Dhu’l-Qa’dah 1402 (21/08/1982) and revised in 1409 H. Facilities (plan or activities which
are expected to be a source of pollution or environmental deterioration) must comply with the
standards, which are administered by GAMEP. All operating and maintenance activities and
any proposed expansion works will need to comply with these standards.
Other Relevant Authorities and Legislation
The National Commission for Wildlife Conservation and Development (NCWCD) was
established in 1986 to “develop and implement plans to preserve wildlife in its natural
ecology and to propose the establishment of proper protected areas and reserves for wildlife
in the Kingdom”. The NCWCD had established 15 protected areas by 2003, with 60 more
areas planned.
The NCWCD's protected areas system plan has recommended more than 100 additional sites
for protection, constituting more than 8% of the Kingdom. This figure will increase to over
10% as new areas are identified and incorporated into the protected areas system. For the
________________________________________________________________________________________________ 56
selection of sites as protected areas, NCWDC has used a number of ecological and socio-
economic criteria (NCWCD, 2009):
 Representative coverage of all the Kingdom's biotopes;
 Protection of existing populations of key wildlife species;
 Protection of habitats of key biological importance;
 The potential of the site to provide tangible economic benefits to the local people;
 Sites which are of greatest value for environmental education and awareness;
 Recognition of traditional protection by local people; and,
 An equitable geopolitical spread of protected areas.
On this basis the NCWCD has identified 56 terrestrial sites and 47 marine and coastal sites as
suitable for designation as protected areas. However, it has not been considered feasible to
initiate the protection of all these areas at one time, so a procedure has been developed for
setting priorities in area designation. This procedure involves weighing the relative merits of
the proposed sites in terms of the criteria described above, in addition to practical
considerations such as the degree of local support, presence or absence of conflicting land
uses, logistical ease of protection, and the urgency of threats to the sites and their wildlife
populations. The National Wildlife Research Centre (NWRC) was established in 1986 and
undertakes research on, and breeding and reintroduction of, endangered endemic species
(Vincent, 2008).
There are various laws designed to conserve biodiversity in KSA, including the Agricultural
and Veterinary Quarantine Regulations (1975), the Water Resources Conservation Act
(1980), the National Commission for Wildlife Conservation and Development Act (1986),
the Fishing Exploitation and Protection of Live Aquatic Resources Act (1987), the Wildlife
Protected Areas Act (1995), the Wild Animals and Birds Hunting Act (1999), the Act on
Trade in Endangered Wildlife Species and their Products (2000) and the Forests and Pastures
Act (2004).
The Ministry of Agriculture also plays a part in nature conservation, being responsible for the
implementation of economic plans and programmes for agriculture, fisheries, forestry, animal
resources and National Parks. A Department of National Parks was created in 1983, and there
are currently 15 designated National Parks, with a further five parks proposed (Vincent,
2008).
The Fisheries Affairs Directorate of the Ministry of Agriculture is concerned with fisheries
regulation and legislation. The Coast Guard and other marine agencies perform enforcement
functions. There are a number of laws governing fisheries in KSA, including the following
________________________________________________________________________________________________ 57
(Saudi Commission for Tourism [SCT], 2006, now Saudi Commission for Tourism and
Antiquities [SCTA]):
 Royal Decree M/9 of 1988 regarding Living Marine Resources within the National
Waters:
 Fishing, Investment and Conservation Law;
 Royal Decree No. M/7 of 1979;
 Royal Decree M/19 Concerning regulations for catching, investing and protecting
marine resources (1990);
 Royal Decree No.4 of 1981;
 Royal Decree No. 9 of 1986; and,
 Royal Decree No.11 of 2002.
Environmental protection measures have been implemented to restrict fishing in order to
protect the marine environment and to ensure the safety and quality of Saudi fish products.
Fishing in the Red Sea is banned between March and August. All indiscriminate fishing
activities, such as the use of toxic chemicals and electric shocks, have been banned. At the
same time, fish nets with mesh sizes designed to protect small fish are promoted, and modern
fishing and farming techniques which take the marine environment into consideration are
encouraged (SCT, 2006).
The following ministries also play a role in formulating environmental policies and
regulations. All are members of the Preparatory Committee for Ministerial Committee on the
Environment (PCMCE) and Ministerial Committee on the Environment (MCE):
 The Ministry of Industry and Electricity (MIE);
 The Ministry of the Interior (MoI);
 The Ministry of Municipal and Rural Affairs (MoMRA);
 The Ministry of Petroleum and Mineral Resources (MPMR);
 The Ministry of Planning (MoP); and,
 The Ministry of Health (MoH).
In addition, the Saudi Arabian Coast Guards have authority between the borders of the
territorial sea, for distances of 12 miles offshore and 10 km inland. The Sea Port Authority
holds responsibility for ports, while the Ministry of Transport is responsible for marine
navigation in territorial waters (SCT, 2006).
The SCT, which is charged with developing and promoting KSA’s tourism industry,
recognizes the close relationship between tourism and the environment. Of relevance to the
________________________________________________________________________________________________ 58
project area is the production of a strategy document and action plan for the Red Sea
coastline of KSA (SCT, 2006).
The Law of Antiquities (1978) defined movable and immovable properties to be classified as
antiquities, and established the Antiquities Directorate within the Ministry of Education (this
was subsequently taken over by the SCT). The law provides for protection of antiquities and
allows for the involvement of the Antiquities Department in the planning and development
process (SCT, 2006).
The main institution concerned with solid wastes is MoMRA. The ministry is responsible for
the management of services to maintain cleanliness and public health in the cities and villages
of the Kingdom. The General Directorate of Environmental Health under the Deputy
Ministry for Technical Affairs is responsible for upgrading health regulations according to
latest international specifications and ensuring implementation by the municipalities.
2.3.8. Royal Commission for Jubail & Yanbu
M/s Environmental Balance Establishment (EBE) also refers to other standards and
regulations for dredging activities that are adopted by Kingdom of Saudi Arabia such as the
Royal Commission for Jubail/Yanbu as a reference only. Referring to Royal Commission
Environmental Regulation Section - 6 for Dredging Operation.
Dredging Regulations
♦ Article 6.1.1; No dredging or disposal of dredged material shall take place outside the
Harbor without specific approval being granted by the Royal Commission.
♦ Approval will be subject to an assessment of the environmental impact of the proposed
dredging and dredged material disposal activities, which will be based on information
provided to the Royal Commission in accordance with Section A.11.
♦ Article 6.1.2; No dredged materials shall be disposed of within enclosed bays, inlets or
within the 20m low tide depth contour unless the dredged material is being used for
approved construction purposes.
♦ Article 6.1.3; Dredged material that does not meet the standards in Table 1.A shall not be
disposed of at offshore locations Such materials may be disposed of at onshore facilities
in accordance with Sections 4 and 5
♦ Article 6.1.4; Supernatant water decanted from dredged material shall not be disposed of
within enclosed bays or inlets or within the 20m low tide depth contour unless a visual
clarity of at least 0.5m has been achieved. Supernatant water quality parameters shall
meet the maximum pollutant level standards established in Section 3.2.1.
________________________________________________________________________________________________ 59
♦ Article 6.1.5; The use of surface impoundments to retain and settle dredged materials
shall conform to the standards given in Section 3.4.11 of these Regulations.
2.4. International Protocols & Guidelines
2.4.1. Equator Principle II of 2013
The Equator Principles is a risk management framework, adopted by financial institutions, for
determining, assessing and managing environmental and social risk in projects. The Equator
Principles have become the project finance industry standard for addressing environmental
and social issues in project financing globally. During March – May 2006, the Equator
Principles Financial Institutions (EPFIs) underwent a substantial review. The revised
principles became effective on July 6, 2006. The main issues and differences are:
The principles apply to all new project financings which have a total capital cost of $10
million or more across all industry sectors (the previous threshold was $50 million); and
For projects with potential significant or limited adverse social or environmental impacts
(Category A and B respectively) the borrower must complete and disclose an Environmental
and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) referred to as Social and Environmental Assessment
(SEA).
PREAMBLE
Project financing, a method of funding in which the lender looks primarily to the revenues
generated by a single project both as the source of repayment and as security for the
exposure, plays an important role in financing development throughout the world.1 Project
financiers may encounter social and environmental issues that are both complex and
challenging, particularly with respect to projects in the emerging markets.
The Equator Principles Financial Institutions (EPFIs) have consequently adopted these
Principles in order to ensure that the projects we finance are developed in a manner that is
socially responsible and reflect sound environmental management practices. By doing so,
negative impacts on project-affected ecosystems and communities should be avoided where
possible, and if these impacts are unavoidable, they should be reduced, mitigated and/or
compensated for appropriately. We believe that adoption of and adherence to these Principles
offers significant benefits to ourselves, our borrowers and local stakeholders through our
borrowers’ engagement with locally affected communities. We therefore recognize that our
role as financiers affords us opportunities to promote responsible environmental stewardship
and socially responsible development. As such, EPFIs will consider reviewing these
________________________________________________________________________________________________ 60
Principles from time-to-time based on implementation experience, and in order to reflect

ongoing learning and emerging good practice.
These Principles are intended to serve as a common baseline and framework for the
implementation by each EPFI of its own internal social and environmental policies,
procedures and standards related to its project financing activities. We will not provide loans
to projects where the borrower will not or is unable to comply with our respective social and
environmental policies and procedures that implement the Equator Principles.
STATEMENT OF PRINCIPLES
EPFIs will only provide loans to projects that conform to Principles 1-9 below:
The ten Equator Principles are:
Principle 1: Review and categorization;
Principle 2: Social and environmental assessment;
Principle 3: Applicable Social and Environmental Standards;
Principle 4: Action plan and management system;
Principle 5: Consultation and disclosure
Principle 6: Grievance mechanism;
Principle 7: Independent review;
Principle 8: Covenant’s;
Principle 9: Independent monitoring and reporting;
Principle 10: Equator Principles Financial Institution’s (EPFI) reporting.
Principle 1 classifies projects in 3 categories:
Category A: Projects with potential significant adverse social or environmental impacts that
is diverse, irreversible or unprecedented;
Category B: Projects with potential limited adverse social or environmental impacts that are
mitigation measures; and;
Category C: Projects with minimal or no social or environmental impacts.
Projects that are classified as Category A or B are required to complete and disclose a Social
and Environmental Assessment (SEA) or ESIA. This is defined as a process that `determines
the social and environmental impacts and risks (including labour, health and safety) of a
proposed project in its area of influence' (Equator Principles, Statement of Principles, July
2006).According to the classification above, Shoaiba RO Plant Phase IV Project is a
Category A project. The Assessment Documentation should propose measures to minimise,
________________________________________________________________________________________________ 61
mitigate, and offset adverse impacts in a manner relevant and appropriate to the nature and
scale of the Project.
Principle 1: Review and Categorization

When a project is proposed for financing, the EPFI will, as part of its internal social and
environmental review and due diligence, categorize such project based on the magnitude of
its potential impacts and risks in accordance with the environmental and social screening
criteria of the International Finance Corporation (IFC) (Exhibit I).
Principle 2: Social and Environmental Assessment

For each project assessed as being either Category A or Category B, the borrower has
conducted a Social and Environmental Assessment (“Assessment”) process2 to address, as
appropriate and to the EPFI’s satisfaction, the relevant social and environmental impacts and
risks of the proposed project (which may include, if relevant, the illustrative list of issues as
found in Exhibit II). The Assessment should also propose mitigation and management
measures relevant and appropriate to the nature and scale of the proposed project.
Principle 3: Applicable Social and Environmental Standards
For projects located in non-OECD countries, and those located in OECD countries not
designated as High-Income, as defined by the World Bank Development Indicators Database,
the Assessment will refer to the then applicable IFC Performance Standards (Exhibit III) and
the then applicable Industry Specific EHS Guidelines (“EHS Guidelines”) (Exhibit IV).The
Assessment will establish to a participating EPFI’s satisfaction the project's overall
compliance with, or justified deviation from, the respective Performance Standards and EHS
Guidelines.
The regulatory, permitting and public comment process requirements in High-Income OECD
Countries, as defined by the World Bank Development Indicators Database, generally meet
or exceed the requirements of the IFC Performance Standards (Exhibit III) and EHS
Guidelines (Exhibit IV). Consequently, to avoid duplication and streamline EPFI's review of
these projects, successful completion of an Assessment (or its equivalent) process under and
in compliance with local or national law in High-Income OECD Countries is considered to be
an acceptable substitute for the IFC Performance Standards, EHS Guidelines and further
requirements as detailed in Principles 4, 5 and 6 below. For these projects, however, the EPFI
still categorizes and reviews the project in accordance with Principles 1 and 2 above.
The Assessment process in both cases should address compliance with relevant host country
laws, regulations and permits that pertain to social and environmental matters.
________________________________________________________________________________________________ 62
Principle 4: Action Plan and Management System

For all Category A and Category B projects located in non-OECD countries, and those
located in OECD countries not designated as High-Income, as defined by the World Bank
Development Indicators Database, the borrower has prepared an Action Plan (AP)3 which
addresses the relevant findings, and draws on the conclusions of the Assessment. The AP will
describe and prioritize the actions needed to implement mitigation measures, corrective
actions and monitoring measures necessary to manage the impacts and risks identified in the
Assessment. Borrowers will build on, maintain or establish a Social and Environmental
Management System that addresses the management of these impacts, risks, and corrective
actions required to comply with applicable host country social and environmental laws and
regulations, and requirements of the applicable Performance Standards and EHS Guidelines,
as defined in the AP. For projects located in High-Income OECD countries, EPFIs may
require development of an Action Plan based on relevant permitting and regulatory
requirements, and as defined by host-country law.
Principle 5: Consultation and Disclosure
For all Category A and, as appropriate, Category B projects located in non-OECD countries,
and those located in OECD countries not designated as High-Income, as defined by the
World Bank Development Indicators Database, the government, borrower or third party
expert has consulted with project affected communities in a structured and culturally
appropriate manner.4 For projects with significant adverse impacts on affected communities,
the process will ensure their free, prior and informed consultation and facilitate their
informed participation as a means to establish, to the satisfaction of the EPFI, whether a
project has adequately incorporated affected communities’ concerns.5
In order to accomplish this, the Assessment documentation and AP, or non-technical
summaries thereof, will be made available to the public by the borrower for a reasonable
minimum period in the relevant local language and in a culturally appropriate manner. The
borrower will take account of and document the process and results of the consultation,
including any actions agreed resulting from the consultation. For projects with adverse social
or environmental impacts, disclosure should occur early in the Assessment process and in any
event before the project construction commences, and on an ongoing basis.
Principle 6: Grievance Mechanism
For all Category A and, as appropriate, Category B projects located in non-OECD countries,
and those located in OECD countries not designated as High-Income, as defined by the
World Bank Development Indicators Database, to ensure that consultation, disclosure and
________________________________________________________________________________________________ 63
community engagement continues throughout construction and operation of the project, the
borrower will, scaled to the risks and adverse impacts of the project, establish a grievance
mechanism as part of the management system. This will allow the borrower to receive and
facilitate resolution of concerns and grievances about the project’s social and environmental
performance raised by individuals or groups from among project-affected communities. The
borrower will inform the affected communities about the mechanism in the course of its
community engagement process and ensure that the mechanism addresses concerns promptly
and transparently, in a culturally appropriate manner, and is readily accessible to all segments
of the affected communities.
Principle 7: Independent Review

For all Category A projects and, as appropriate, for Category B projects, an independent
social or environmental expert not directly associated with the borrower will review the
Assessment, AP and consultation process documentation in order to assist EPFI's due
diligence, and assess Equator Principles compliance.
Principle 8: Covenants
An important strength of the Principles is the incorporation of covenants linked to
compliance. For Category A and B projects, the borrower will covenant in financing
documentation:
a) To comply with all relevant host country social and environmental laws,
regulations and permits in all material respects;
b) To comply with the AP (where applicable) during the construction and operation
of the project in all material respects;
c) To provide periodic reports in a format agreed with EPFIs (with the frequency of
these reports proportionate to the severity of impacts, or as required by law, but
not less than annually), prepared by in-house staff or third party experts, that i)
document compliance with the AP (where applicable), and ii) provide
representation of compliance with relevant local, state and host country social and
environmental laws, regulations and permits; and
d) To decommission the facilities, where applicable and appropriate, in accordance

with an agreed decommissioning plan.
________________________________________________________________________________________________ 64
Where a borrower is not in compliance with its social and environmental covenants, EPFIs
will work with the borrower to bring it back into compliance to the extent feasible, and if the
borrower fails to re-establish compliance within an agreed grace period, EPFIs reserve the
right to exercise remedies, as they consider appropriate.
Principle 9: Independent Monitoring and Reporting

To ensure ongoing monitoring and reporting over the life of the loan, EPFIs will, for all
Category A projects, and as appropriate, for Category B projects, require appointment of an
independent environmental and/or social expert, or require that the borrower retain qualified
and experienced external experts to verify its monitoring information which would be shared
with EPFIs.
Principle 10: EPFI Reporting

Each EPFI adopting the Equator Principles commits to report publicly at least annually about
its Equator Principles implementation processes and experience, taking into account
appropriate confidentiality considerations.
EXHIBIT I: CATEGORISATION OF PROJECTS

As part of their review of a project’s expected social and environmental impacts, EPFIs use a
system of social and environmental categorization, based on the IFC’s environmental and
social screening criteria, to reflect the magnitude of impacts understood as a result of
assessment.
These categories are:
Category A – Projects with potential significant adverse social or environmental impacts that
are diverse, irreversible or unprecedented;
Category B – Projects with potential limited adverse social or environmental impacts that are
mitigation measures; and
Category C – Projects with minimal or no social or environmental impacts.
EXHIBIT II: ILLUSTRATIVE LIST OF POTENTIAL SOCIAL AND

ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES TO BE ADDRESSED IN THE SOCIAL AND
ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT DOCUMENTATION
In the context of the business of the project, the Assessment documentation will address,
where applicable, the following issues:
a) Assessment of the baseline social and environmental conditions
________________________________________________________________________________________________ 65
b) consideration of feasible environmentally and socially preferable alternatives
c) requirements under host country laws and regulations, applicable international

treaties and agreements
d) protection of human rights and community health, safety and security (including
risks, impacts and management of project’s use of security personnel)
e) protection of cultural property and heritage
f) protection and conservation of biodiversity, including endangered species and

sensitive ecosystems in modified, natural and critical habitats, and identification
of legally protected areas
g) sustainable management and use of renewable natural resources (including

sustainable resource management through appropriate independent certification
systems)
h) use and management of dangerous substances
i) major hazards assessment and management
j) labor issues (including the four core labour standards), and occupational health
and safety
k) fire prevention and life safety
l) socio-economic impacts
m) land acquisition and involuntary resettlement
n) Impacts on affected communities, and disadvantaged or vulnerable groups
o) impacts on indigenous peoples, and their unique cultural systems and values
p) cumulative impacts of existing projects, the proposed project, and anticipated

future projects
q) consultation and participation of affected parties in the design, review and

implementation of the project
r) efficient production, delivery and use of energy
s) pollution prevention and waste minimization, pollution controls (liquid effluents

and air emissions) and solid and chemical waste management
Note: The above list is for illustrative purposes only. The Social and Environmental
Assessment process of each project may or may not identify all issues noted above, or be
relevant to every project.
________________________________________________________________________________________________ 66
EXHIBIT III: IFC PERFORMANCE STANDARDS ON ENVIRONMENTAL AND

SOCIAL SUSTAINABILITY
As of January 1, 2012, the following list of IFC Performance Standards were applicable: The
ESIA must now comprise a detailed assessment of social and environmental impacts
including labor, health and safety.
Performance Standard 1 - Assessment and Management of Social and Environmental Risks
and Impacts
Performance Standard 2 - Labor and Working Conditions
Performance Standard 3 - Resource Efficiency and Pollution Prevention
Performance Standard 4 - Community Health, Safety and Security
Performance Standard 5 - Land Acquisition and Involuntary Resettlement
Performance Standard 6 - Biodiversity Conservation and Sustainable Management of Living
Natural Resources
Performance Standard 7 - Indigenous Peoples
Performance Standard 8 - Cultural Heritage
EXHIBIT IV: INDUSTRY-SPECIFIC ENVIRONMENTAL, HEALTH AND SAFETY

(EHS) GUIDELINES
EPFIs will utilize the appropriate environmental, health and safety (EHS) guidelines used by
the IFC which are now in place, and as may be amended from time-to-time.
2.4.2. World Bank Requirements

The World Bank Group Environmental Health and Safety Guidelines (EHS Guidelines) as of
April 30, 2007 have replaced the World Bank’s Pollution Prevention Abatement Handbook
(PPAH) issued in 1998. These guidelines provide sector specific requirements for
performance that are acceptable to IFC. The revised standards are still in the draft stage.
2.4.3. World Health Organization (WHO)

The World Health Organization (WHO) is the United Nations specialized agency for health,
its objective being the achievement by all people of the highest possible level of health. WHO
is governed by 192 member states throughout the World Health Assembly. The assembly is
composed of representatives from WHO’s member states. The guidelines include background
information to enable countries to set their national or regional air quality standards in the
context of existing environmental, social, economic and cultural conditions. The air quality
guideline values define concentrations of air pollutants below which no adverse effect to
________________________________________________________________________________________________ 67
human health is expected. The guidelines are summarized in the sections assessing impacts
on air quality.
2.4.4. International Finance Corporation (IFC) Performance Standards

The IFC’s Performance Standards on Social and Environmental Sustainability (the
‘Performance Standards’) are referenced by EP3 and are applied to projects to manage social
and environmental risks and impacts (IFC, 2007b).
International Finance Corporation Environmental, Health and Safety Guidelines
The IFC’s EHS Guidelines for Mining (IFC, 2007c) is a technical reference document
containing industry-specific examples of good international industry practice, and is designed
to be used in conjunction with the EHS General Guidelines (IFC, 2007a). The guidelines
contain the performance levels and measures that are generally considered achievable in new
facilities by existing technology at reasonable costs. The mining-specific guidelines include
recommended practices for management of water use and quality, wastes, hazardous
materials, land use and biodiversity, air quality, noise and vibration, energy use, and visual
impacts. The guidelines also cover both occupational and community health and safety
issues.
2.5. International Conventions

2.5.1 Sea
Saudi Arabia is a signatory to the United Nations Convention of the Law of the Sea, which
provides for a universal legal framework for the rational management of marine resources
and their conservation for future generations.
2.5.2 Air
Saudi Arabia is a signatory to the 1985 Vienna Convention for the Protection of the Ozone
layer, which seeks to protect human health and the environment against adverse effects to the
modification of the ozone layer. Saudi Arabia is also a signatory to the Montreal Protocol,
which calls for phasing out chlorofluorocarbon (CFC) gases (harmful to the ozone layer) by
2010. However, under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, Saudi
Arabia, as a non-Annex I country, is not required to reduce its emissions below 1990 levels.
Although Saudi Arabia ratified the Convention, it is not a signatory to the Kyoto Protocol.
2.5.3 Biological Diversity
Saudi Arabia has been a party to the Convention on Biodiversity since its accession on
03/10/2003.
________________________________________________________________________________________________ 68
2.5.4 Movement of Waste

Saudi Arabia is a signatory to the 1989 Basel Convention on the Control of Trans boundary
Movements of Hazardous Wastes, Chemical and their Disposal.
2.5.5. Others
KSA is a signatory to a number of international conventions regarding environmental
protection and legislation, including (Central Intelligence Agency [CIA], 2009 and SCT,
2006):
• Convention on the Prevention of Marine Pollution by Dumping Wastes and Other
Matter (London Convention) (1972);
• Convention Concerning the Protection of World Cultural and Natural Heritage (World
Heritage Convention) (1972);
• Convention on the International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Flora and
Fauna (CITES) (1973);
• Protocol of 1978 Relating to the International Convention for the Prevention of
Pollution From Ships, 1973 (MARPOL) (1978);
• Convention for the Conservation of Migratory Species (Bonn Convention) (1979);
• United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (1982);
• Montreal Protocol on Substances That Deplete the Ozone Layer (1987);
• Basel Convention on the Control of Transboundary Movements of Hazardous Wastes
and Their Disposal (1989);
• Convention on Biological Diversity (1992);
• United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (1994); and,
• Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety (2009).
Saudi Arabia is a non-Annex I country under the United Nations Framework Convention on
Climate Change, and is not required to reduce its emissions below 1990 levels. Saudi Arabia
has ratified the Kyoto Protocol, but has no specific commitments for greenhouse gas
reductions (Vincent, 2008).
In 1978, Saudi Arabia participated in a regional conference on the protection and
development of the marine environment and the coastal areas of Bahrain, Iran, Iraq, Kuwait,
Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates. The conference adopted the
Action Plan for the Protection and Development of the Marine Environment and the Coastal
Areas, the Kuwait Regional Convention for Co-operation on the Protection of the Marine
________________________________________________________________________________________________ 69
Environment from Pollution, and the Protocol concerning Regional Co-operation in

Combating Pollution by Oil and other Harmful Substances in Cases of Emergency.
In addition, KSA is signatory to the Jeddah Convention of 1982, which is formally titled
“Regional Convention for the conservation of the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden environment”.
From this conference was formed PERSGA, the Regional Organization for Conservation of
Environment of the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden. GAMEP is a member of the governing body
of PERSGA (SCT, 2006).
2.6. The Red Sea and Gulf of Aden

Saudi Arabia is a signatory to the 1992 Regional Convention for the Conservation of the Red
Sea and Gulf of Aden Environment (commonly referred to as them Jeddah Convention). The
Jeddah Convention seeks, in broad terms, to preserve and protect the special hydrographic
and ecological characteristics of the marine Environment of the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden.
2.6.1. Regional action plan for the conservation of coral reefs in the Red Sea and the
Gulf of Aden.( March 2003) PERSGA
The regional organization for the conservation of the environment of Red Sea and the Gulf of
Aden (PERSGA) drafted this plan in recognition of the great economic, ecological and
aesthetic importance that coral reefs provide, and the increasing threats from human and
natural impacts.
2.6.2. Regional action plan for the Conservation of Breeding Seabirds and their habitats
in the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden (April 2004), PERSGA.
The region is recognized as being important for all Seabirds with 17 species of true Seabirds
breeding regularly. The RCSA has a wide range of suitable habitats for breeding Seabirds,
but the increasing human threats have prompted this plan to set out seven objectives to help
conserve the habitats.
2.7. Islamic Principles for the Conservation of the Natural Environment

Environmental planning, protection and policy in KSA should encompass all aspects of Islam
and its teachings. Protection, conservation and development of the environment and natural
resources is a mandatory religious duty to which every Muslim should be committed
(Ministry of Defense and Aviation, cited in Vincent, 2008).
Islamic law (Sharia'a Law) carries the force of legislative law in KSA. The two main sources
of Islamic law are the Koran, and the sayings and actions of the Prophet Mohammed known
as the hadith. Throughout the Quran and hadith there are many general references to the
________________________________________________________________________________________________ 70
environment (i.e. animals, plants, mountains, seas, etc.), which are all considered to be
blessings from Allah. This view holds that everything on earth was created for humankind as
a gift from Allah, but that this gift has conditions. The special position occupied by
humankind carries with it religious obligations and commitments to use the basic natural
elements of water, air, plants and animals honestly, and to protect them from outside factors
or harmful effects, ensuring they are treated with kindness, utilized sensibly, and conserved.
For specific reckless damage to the environment there are prescribed punishments (Khalid,
2002; Al-Jadaan and Mercer, 2002).
2.8. The Six Member Committee

This committee reviews the suitability and feasibility of the new developmental projects in
the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and has the authority to approve a certain project under their
jurisdictions.
The committee consists of the members from the following Governmental Organizations:
1. Ministry of Agriculture and fisheries
2. Coast Guard
3. Municipality
4. General Authority of Meteorology and Environmental Protection (GAMEP)
5. Ministry of Finance and;
6. National Commission for Wildlife Conservation and Development (NCWD) or
National Wildlife Authority (NWA)
The Shoaiba RO Plant Phase IV Project has been analyzed by the six committee from the
following considerations:
• Environmental /Ecological
• Economic
• Geotechnical
• Socio-Cultural
• Engineering
• Oceanographic
2.9. Other available Regional Environmental Standards & Regulations in Saudi Arabia
Apart from General Environmental Regulations & Rules for implementation of Kingdom of
Saudi Arabia. The Royal Commission for Jubail & Yanbu brought Environmental regulations
for Industrial cities Jubail & Yanbu in 2004 /2010/2015 Volume I ,II & III of RCER.
________________________________________________________________________________________________ 71
The main objectives of the Royal Commission for Jubail and Yanbu to set out environmental
regulations are industrialization coupled with environmental protection. Since inception, the
Royal Commission has been determined that Jubail and Yanbu would be models of
environmental planning and management in addition to being productive manufacturing
centers. The real benefit of industrialization can be appreciated by society only if the entire
environment and health of the citizens are protected. In this regard, it is to be emphasized that
there must be a close cooperation between industries and environmental management
personnel in order to achieve this goal.
The Royal Commission for Jubail and Yanbu has issued the “Royal Commission
Environmental Regulations” (RCER) to be adopted by industries both in Jubail and Yanbu.
Any facility operating or planning to operate on the Royal Commission property will require
complying with these regulations. These regulations will be updated periodically to reflect
the environmental needs of the cities and the latest in pollution control technologies.
Preface to Environmental Regulations of Royal Commission for Yanbu & Jubail

The Royal Commission for Jubail and Yanbu is responsible for controlling pollution
associated with the development and operation of both industrial cities. The Royal
Commission have developed and adopted regulations, standards and guidelines to control
substances emitted, discharged, or deposited, and noise generated within the industrial cities.
The environmental regulations, standards and guidelines presented here are specific to both
Jubail and Yanbu Industrial Cities. These are intended to clearly state the environmental
protection regulations and to formally define the requirements for adherence to them.
Volume I of the Royal Commission Environmental Regulations includes all regulations,

standards and guidelines required to protect the environment of both cities from adverse
impacts. Volume II of the regulations presents the Consolidated Permit Program which
covers procedures and forms for applying for an “Environmental Consent to construct” and
"Environmental Permit to Operate". Volume III details the Environmental Violations and
penalties.
This document (Volume I) are comprising eight sections:
♦ Section 1 – Environmental Regulatory System.
♦ Section 2 – Air Environment.
♦ Section 3 – Water Environment.
♦ Section 4 – Hazardous Materials Management.
________________________________________________________________________________________________ 72
♦ Section 5 – Waste Management.

♦ Section 6 – Dredging.
♦ Section 7 – Noise.
♦ Section 8 – Reporting and Record Keeping.
Section 1 - Environmental regulatory system: This section reveals all the general regulations
stating the policies to control the environment of both cities from potential adverse impacts
from industrial activities. The environmental regulations for construction & operation of the
industrial establishment are detailed in this section.
Section 2 – This section covers detailed aspects of the ambient air quality standards, which
are determined by the threshold of observable health effects on humans. Air pollution source
standards are designed to prevent, control or abate air pollution and to attain and maintain
ambient air quality well below the standards.
Section 3 – This section consists the standards on water quality which includes ambient water
quality criteria for both Red Sea and Arabian Gulf. Waste water pretreatment standards and
guidelines at the point of discharge to the central treatment facilities, water quality standards
for direct discharge to coastal water, ballast water discharge as well as irrigation and potable
water quality standards have been presented in this section.
Section 4 – This section reveals the classification of hazardous wastes inventory regulations
of hazardous materials, regulations for hazardous materials storing and handling, regulations
for hazardous material transportation and regulations for underground storage tank.
Section 5 – This section covers the regulations and standards to govern the proper
transportation, treatment, storage and disposal of all sorts of waste from industrial cities,
commercial and residential sectors. This section consists the waste manifest & transport
regulations, industrial & hazardous waste treatment and disposal regulations, procedures for
collection of municipal waste, non – hazardous industrial waste & municipal waste disposal
regulations, inert waste disposal regulations, waste transport regulations, waste disposal
facility and closure/ post closure care regulations.
Section 6 – This section describes the dredging regulations in the coasts of Red Sea and
Arabian Gulf.
Section 7 – This section prescribes the regulations and standards established to ensure that
noise level maintained well below the permissible limit that do not cause nuisance or harm to
the citizens or environment. Environmental noise standards & regulations for residential,
commercial, industrial areas and roadside areas are specified.
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Section 8 – This section specifies the reporting and record keeping of air quality, water
quality, noise & hazardous waste management , air & water pollution treatment and
requirements for reporting the data to the competent authority.
In addition to all the above, specifications of Environmental consent for construction and
operation have been given. The environmental authorization to transport, industrial &
hazardous waste are designated.
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia have actively attempted to; establish a balance between the
environmental considerations and prerequisites; rationalization of the use of available
resources, their development and advancement in various fields & have ratified many
regional and international conventions in various areas, especially in the field of environment.
The General Authority of Meteorology and Environmental Protection (GAMEP ) has played
its pioneer role in this area through the development of the “Environmental Regulations and
Its Rules of Implementation” (2001). The aims of these regulations are essentially to enhance
the balanced environmental activities, to take care of the environment, conservation of natural
resources and promoting environmental awareness in the society. The ultimate achievement
is the implementation of sustainable development concept, which is a paramount goal for all
nations.
Guideline documents
World Bank, Environmental Assessment Sourcebook 1999, Coastal Zone Management
and Environmental Assessment
The Urban development in the Coastal area generally affects the marine area. The World
Bank Sourcebook is an internationally recognized reference for Environmental Impact
Assessment (EIA) studies, although its use is not binding for non- World Bank projects.
Legal Frame work for Environmental Impact Assessment as Per GERRI 2001
GAMEP regulations, General Environmental Regulations and Rules for Implementation
(GERRI) 2001, laid down a set of ‘standards, specifications, basis and controls for the
evaluation of the environmental impact of projects and facilities required to be licensed’.
Under the provisions of General Environmental Regulations and Rules for Implementation all
proposals for projects are presented to GAMEP for review of their compliance with
environmental planning procedures and standards. The general stages in the environmental
planning process are:
• Presentation of ESIA report to GAMEP and the agreement with GAMEP regarding
key issues to be the subject of investigation;
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• Conducting the studies to establish the environmental baseline and presentation of a

detailed project description, so that the potential impacts related to the proposed
development can be identified. This must be carried through the assessment of the
significance of potential impacts, and studying any necessary mitigation measures and
environmental management proposals required minimizing the predicted
environmental impacts of the development.
The main objective of off shore EIA of SROP Ph IV Project is
 Identification of impacts.
 Incorporate the suitable mitigation measures in the project to achieve the

sustainability of the development action over a long term.
 The purpose of using EIA is to incorporate development into a planning tool.

(Fig. 1) for environments protection on a project-by-project basis.
Project
Pre-feasibility Study
of Off shore works of Project Feasibility Review and Selection of Project
SROP Ph IV Study, Off shore works of Alternative for Implementation
Initial SROP Ph
IV Off shore Development SROP Ph IV Development of Off shore works of SROP Ph
Development IV Development
Proposal
Detailed ESIA of Off shore works of
SROP Ph IV a) Evaluation of effects
and feasible modifications Submitted ESIA Report of
Preliminary
b) Special criteria review Off shore works of SROP
ESIA of Off shore
c) Review of alternatives Ph IV Development to
works of SROP Ph
d) Recommended Environmental GAMEP for Review &
IV Development
consultants Approval
Project Final Design and

Construction and start up
Off shore works of SROP Ph IV
Development Project Operation
Environmental Monitoring of Off shore

works of SROP Ph IV Development
Figure 2.2: Scheme of EIA Process in Saudi Arabia as per GAMEP/PME (GERRI 2001)
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Submit Off shore works of SROP Ph

IV Project EIA methodology report
and agree scope with GAMEP
Undertake preliminary ESIA of Off

shore works and identify further
studies required for detailed ESIA
Undertake detailed ESIA for Off

shore works & recommendations of
mitigation measures. Project design
refined to incorporate mitigation
measures
Request for additional information

Rejection of ESIA Approval of ESIA
by GAMEP
Construction
Environmental monitoring to ensure
conditions of approval are
implemented
Operation
Environmental monitoring to ensure
conditions of approval are
implemented
Figure 2.3: Systematic approach for using EIA as planning tool for the Off shore
construction works of Shoaiba R O Plant Phase IV Shoaiba, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
 Submission of the Off shore works of SROP Ph IV ESIA Report to GAMEP for their
review. The procedure allows for resubmission if supplementary data is required by
GAMEP.
 A positive GAMEP decision on Off-shore ESIA approval is in the form of an
environmental certification. This in essence is an environmental clearance for the
facility and may contain specific conditions such as the environmental performance to
be achieved, along with health and safety requirements. GAMEP may inspect the
development site during the construction phase to check compliance with conditions
attached to the certification, as well as the implementation of the measures listed in
the Construction Environmental Management Plan.
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SECTION 3: PROJECT DESCRIPTION
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SECTION 3: PROJECT DESCRIPTION
3.1 Introduction
Leading South Korean group Doosan Heavy Industries & Construction Company said it has
secured a 470 billion won ($422.05 million) construction contract for a seawater reverse
osmosis desalination (SWRO) plant in Saudi Arabia.
The contract for building the nation’s largest SWRO plant in Shuaibah, 110 km south of
Jeddah, on the coast of Red Sea, was awarded by Saudi Arabia's Saline Water Conversion
Corporation (SWCC)
As per the contract, Doosan Heavy will complete the construction of the plant as the
engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) contractor.
Figure 3.1: Shoaiba RO4 Location
Once the facility is completed, it will process 400,000 m3 of sea water into fresh water a day,
to meet the requirements of 1.3 million people, and supply it to western Saudi Arabia.
With the latest agreement, the Korean group has re-entered the Saudi Arabian seawater
desalination market after five long years. stated the report. The company had last worked on
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the desalination plant project at Ras Al Khair in 2010 and Yanbu seawater desalination plant
Phase Three contracts in 2012.
3.2 Purpose
The Shoaiba SROP Phase IV will be located on the Red Sea coast approximately 100 km
south-southeast of Jeddah at latitude N20°- 38’, longitude E39°- 33’. It lies within the
property of the existing Saline Water Conversion Corporation plant (SWCC Shoaiba). The
new Shoaiba SROP Phase IV shall be adjacent to the Existing Shoaiba IWPP Plant, in KSA
and will be founded to provide Western region in KSA with Fresh water considering increase
of water.
3.3. Plant capacity

Guaranteed Production Requirements Minimum Design Value
Gross Production Capacity 404,000 m3/d
Daily Net Export Capacity 400,000 m3/d
Daily for Internal plant use 2,000 m3/d
Daily for Potable use 2,000 m3/d
3 .4 Manpower for this project

Peak Time: 1150 Men / Month, is scheduled to be at shoaba in peak schedule as per below
picture
Figure 3.2: Figure showing manpower scheduled at Shoaiba 4 Project works

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3.5 Project Description and Key Elements of the Plant

The EPC Contractor, M/S Doosan Heavy Industries And Construction Ltd, KSA.(DHICL
KSA),will perform this project on LSTK (Lump Sum Turn Key) basis which shall include the
design, engineering, material procurement, quality management, factory inspection, testing,
transport and delivery to site, construction/installation, site inspection, testing and
commissioning, and all associated works and services until final handing over of Shoaiba RO
Plant Phase IV in a satisfactory safe and secure working and operating condition to the ,
Saline Water Conversion Corporation Company (SWCC).
Figure 3.3: Offshore Design drawing for SRO Phase IV Project
3.6. Process Description

3.6.10. General
M/s Doosan awarded Shoaba Ro phase 4 desalinization plant on 28th March 2017 and also
project site was hand over to Doosan on May 15th 2017 from the client SWCC. The Shoaiba
RO Phase :4 desalinization plant project is proposed to construct in the coast of red sea about
110 km south of Jeddah city. The exact location is very close to the existing Shoaiba
desalinization plant. The design capacity of the plant is 400,000 m3/day (88 MIGD). The
operating technology is Reverse Osmosis. Not thermal boiling sea water and so this plant is
not required poor steam like Shoaiba phase 2 and Phase 3 IWPP plants
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3.6.2 Process Overview

Overall process
Intake and Screens
Seawater shall flow from the marine intake by gravity from the intake pipelines to the
seawater screening and pumping station. The seawater shall be abstracted at the minimum
depth as indicated in these documents. The intake pipelines shall have a velocity cap to meet
the approach velocity requirements. Static coarse bar screens are provided at the end of the
intake pipes.
Figure 3.4: General Arrangement Drawing of sea water intake system area-1
These screens will prevent marine life from entering the plant. The seawater shall then flow
through channels and is screened by trash racks and travelling band screens.
The travelling band screens shall be capable of automatically removing debris to protect
downstream equipment from damage. Screening apertures shall be selected to ensure
sufficient removal of marine debris to protect the plant, yet prevent blinding. Screens shall be
of a robust design, of proven track record in seawater intakes and manufactured of materials
specified in these documents. The screens shall be fully automatic in operation, controlled to
suit the required intake flow and level of fouling.
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Appropriate screenings handling equipment shall be provided. The proposed equipment shall
have been used in similar applications before as per the experience requirements. The
screening handling arrangement shall include washing, dewatering and handling facilities for
the debris removed.
The screen bay shall include facilities for isolation of individual screens for maintenance.
There shall be suitable provision for removal of any floating material that may accumulate
within the screen fore and after bays.
Seawater pumps
The screened seawater is then pumped to the gravity media filters. The pumps shall be
designed to deliver sufficient seawater to meet the Performance Requirements.
The pumps shall be capable of stable operation over the full range of flows and sea level
conditions. They shall be of robust design and of proven track record in seawater intake
applications.
Outfall
The waste stream from the new plant will be discharged into the Red Sea by having a new
outfall chamber and outfall pipes as described elsewhere in these documents.
The discharge water quality shall meet all the relevant regulations and laws. The discharge
flow shall consist of the combination of waste streams that are simultaneously conveyed and
discharged through the new outfall pipes back into the Red Sea. The conveyance shall be
capable of discharging the maximum influent flow to the Red Sea.
Bio fouling Control
Pre-treatment to limit bio-film growth includes disinfection of the feed water upstream of RO
membranes. Sodium hypochlorite will be added at the entrance to the intake pipe to control
bio-fouling. The oxidant may be neutralized before the RO, as RO membranes made of
polyamide (spiral wound type) can be damaged by them. Even for hollow fine fibre
membranes and other membrane types made from other materials such as cellulose triacetate,
only periodic exposure to oxidant is used.
Coagulation
Ferric chloride is selected as the coagulant for this project because of its use in the existing
plant, and is also a commonly used coagulant in seawater applications as it has higher
discharge concentration. Sulphuric acid is added to adjust pH to optimize coagulation
process. While polymers are detrimental to the membranes, and typically, use of polymer is
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not preferred, provisions for addition of polymer during poor sea water quality conditions
shall be included. The coagulant shall be mixed by static mixer.
Media Filtration
Direct filtration of coagulated water using gravity media filters has been used extensively in
seawater desalination plants, including the existing plant near the Site.
They have proven to provide high quality feed water to the RO, when designed and operated
properly. Based on the available water quality at the existing site, single stage gravity media
filtration has been selected.
Cartridge Filtration
The cartridge filters are used as safety barrier upstream of RO membranes. Their main
purpose is to protect RO membranes from any upsets in the performance of the pre-treatment.
Typically, they are designed to include cartridge elements with nominal pore size of 5 to 20
microns. Elements with 10 micron absolute retention size will be used in this project. They
will be arranged on common headers as per stream wise configuration.
Reverse Osmosis
The reverse osmosis system is the main desalination process in the plant that removes salt
from the water. The reverse osmosis system will receive pressurized feed water from the
cartridge filters. This is supplied to the Pass 1 high pressure pump and the energy recovery
system. The discharge from the energy recovery system is blended with the output from the
Pass 1 high pressure pump and is supplied to the SWRO system. Within the SWRO system,
the feed water is distributed evenly among the pressure vessels. Part of the feed water passes
through the membrane elements and exits the system as RO permeate. The remaining water
will be mani-folded and routed to the energy recovery system. The RO system itself has
pressure vessels that house the RO elements.
The Pass 2 BWRO systems are similar to the pass 1, except for number of stages and
operating pressures. Given the high salinity of the seawater, high temperature and low
product water TDS requirements, all the permeate from pass 1 SWRO systems may have to
be treated by second pass BWRO. The concentrate from the pass 2 BWRO system will be
blended with the feed to the pass 1 SWRO systems, given that it is of higher quality than the
seawater.
The Pass1 will be designed for 20 similar skids and Pass 2 for 10 similar skids. Provision
should be provided for blending and bypass of 100% of Pass1 permeate with all piping,
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valves and instruments which should be included by the Contractor.Both pass 1 & Pass 2 to
use spiral wound membranes.
3.7. Offshore works of Shoaiba 4 Project-Construction of intake and out fall systems
Intake and outfall systems will be constructed as per the requirements of the project. These
intake and outfall systems will be the major components of the project
3.7.1. Intake systems

The seawater intake pipelines will ensure adequate supply of seawater to the onshore
seawater intake pumping station to meet the full demand of the seawater supply pumps
serving the desalination plants including all other auxiliary seawater pumps.
The seawater intake pipelines will be buried in the sea bed. The length of seawater supply
pipelines including chlorine dosing piping from the offshore intake riser room up to the shore
Line (on-shore Seawater pumping station) will be determined by recirculation study.
Therefore, the seawater offshore works/structures will not cause any obstruction concerning
navigation in the sea areas.
Figure 3.5: General Arrangement Drawing of sea water intake system area-2
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Figure 3.6: Intake Pipe Installation Sequence
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The design of the offshore seawater intake pipeline will be determined by taking into
consideration the specific local sea and weather conditions as well as the locally available
construction materials. These optimized calculations will result in an alignment and design of
the seawater offshore intake pipeline.
The entire length will be dredged and three 2,400 mm dia GRP pipes will be installed with all
other facilities. These pipes will leads to the intake pump station constructed on the shoreline.
The intake area will be constructed approximately 15 meter from the sea surface.
The pipes will bury under the sea bed and the gapes will be filled by the dredged materials
from the same area. The process of installation of pipes and construction of intake will be as
per the following drawings
3.7.2. Seawater Intake Pumping Station

The seawater intake pipes from offshore intake riser rooms will lead seawater to the onshore
forebay where the water will be collected in an open common concrete basin and then it will
pass into the seawater pump chambers through bar screens (trash racks) and travelling band
screens before it is directed to the pumps.
Screening plant and all auxiliaries will be provided at the inlet to the seawater intake pump
house structure and upstream of the pumps, comprising coarse bar screens, trash rakes and
travelling band screens. The screening plant will be capable of removing all types of floating
or suspended debris from the seawater, on a continuous and intermittent basis. The screened
water will be used to feed sea water supplying to the SWRO Desalination Plants (under this
contract and for future) sea water supply pumps, fire fighting pumps, screen wash pumps.
Pump Design Data

The physical model study for Seawater pumping station shall be based on the following data:
1. Flow rate of Seawater supply pump
• Type : Vertical pump / Four (4) operations + One (1) stand-by
• Normal case : 10,675 ㎥/hr each pump
• Design : 11,742 ㎥/hr each pump
2. Flow rate of Screen Wash Pump
• Type : Vertical pump / One (1) operation + One (1) stand by
• Normal case : 200 ㎥/hr each pump
• Design : 220 ㎥/hr each pump
3. Flow rate of Fire-fighting Pump
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• Type : Vertical pump / One (1) operation + One (1) stand by

• Normal case : 681 ㎥/hr each pump
4. Provisional S/W supply Pump compartment bottom level : - 10.25 (PD)
Screen Design data in case

1. Bar Screens
• Bar screen chamber invert level : - 9.30m (PD)
• Bar screen design clogging rate : 50%
• Support Thickness (WL) : 90mm
• Bar Thickness (WL) : 6mm
• Opening Length (OL) : 813mm
• Opening Width (OW) : 50mm
2. Travelling Band Screens
• Travelling band screen : - 10.25m (PD)
• Type : Dual Flow Type (1in 2out)
• Travelling band screen wire diameter : 0.7mm
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• Travelling band screen opening : 3mm x 3mm
• Travelling band screen design clogging rate : 50%
Intake Pipe for seawater inflow
1) Type: Riser Pipe
2) Maximum flow velocity: 1.4m/s (at LAT)
3.7.3. Information of Filtered Water Tank
Filtered water from each stream of the gravity media filters will be collected in the Filtered
water tank. And the water from this tank shall be pumped to SWRO cartridge filter system by
the cartridge filter feed pumps.
Design Data
• Configuration : Two(2) Concrete Tank
• Two(2) operations
• Type : Vertical pump
• Normal Case : 10,795 ㎥/hr each pump
• Design : 11,875 ㎥/hr each pump
• Provisional Pump compartment bottom level : -6.5 (PD)
• HHWL : +1.5 (PD)
• LLWL : -2.9 (PD)
3.7.4. Out fall systems

Sea water out fall system will be constructed in the offshore area upto a lenth of 500 meter
away from the shore line. The discharging water from brine and other treatment systems will
be discharged to the sea through this out fall systems. Two GRP pipes with 32,000 dia will be
buried under the sea bed. The sea bed will be dredged as per the below drawing. In order to
protect the pipes from mechanical damage it will cover with dredged materials and gravels as
per the specification.
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Figure 3.7: Out fall installation Sequence
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SECTION 4: SEA TECHNICAL WORK FOR OFF-

SHORE WORKS OF SHOAIBA RO PLANT PHASE VI
PROJECT
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SECTION 4: ESIA TECHNICAL WORK FOR OFF SHORE WORKS OF

SHOAIBA RO PLANT PHASE IV PROJECT
This ESIA study includes reviewing available physical, and biological baseline data,
collecting applicable legislations, identifying the impact on coastal and marine resources,
assessing the environmental impact, and accordingly suggesting the mitigation measures.
4.1. Aims and Objectives of the ESIA Study
Shoaiba RO Plant Phase IV Project Dredging and filling works, installation of intake and
outfall pipelines may have direct and/or indirect impacts on the marine and coastal
environment. Therefore an Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) is required.
This ESIA provide the necessary information for the project to determine whether the
proposed master plan should be allowed to proceed from the environmental point of view, if
yes, what are the conditions for the proposed project plan to be environmental friendly, if
not, the ESIA study could recommend alternative designs or changes of the original project
plan.
It is anticipated that the ESIA study provides a comprehensive description and evaluation of
either positive or negative impacts on the physical and biological components of marine and
coastal environment as well as both social and economic status. The ESIA also incorporated
guidelines for mitigation and enhancement measures to avoid or reduce the adverse impacts
according to the national and international environmental regulations.
4.2. Methodology of ESIA Study
An Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) is a process of systematic
identification and evaluation of the potential impacts (effects) of proposed projects, plans,
programs, or legislative actions relative to physical and biological attributes of the marine
environments together with the socio economic and health of the total surrounding
environments. An ESIA is to be conducted to provide the information necessary to determine
whether, from an environmental perspective, a proposed development should be allowed to
proceed and, if so, under what conditions. ESIA provides a comprehensive evaluation of the
positive and negative consequences on the physical and biological components of the both
marine and coastal environments as well as any other changes likely to be resulted from the
proposed master plan. It also incorporates the proponent’s (SWCC) commitment to
implement effective mitigation and enhancement measures to avoid or minimize adverse
impacts and at the same time, enhance positive socioeconomic impacts.
Various steps involved to conduct an ESIA study which as follows:
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• Identification of proposed project objectives

• Identification of feasible alternatives to meet project objectives
• Evaluating impact of the salient features of the existing environment and predicting
the likely environmental implications of the project development
• Identification and evaluation of mitigation and enhancement measures
• Selection of a preferred alternative on the basis of both environmental ,technological
and economic criteria
• Preparation of Environmental Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) report to document
the above analyses and to summarize the environmental trade-offs associated with the
proposed environment with mitigation and/or enhancement measures
The planning and management of Environmental and Social Impacts Assessment studies
involves steps and activities which can be grouped into the following phases:
• Initial phase of data collection and project description
• Quantitative impact assessment, prediction of impact, and evaluation of mitigation
measures using scientific methods and tools
• Decision-making process to identify the best course of action for proposed project
• Preparation of ESIA report
The initial phase of an ESIA study (scoping) involves a description of the proposed project,
its location, project justification, and the time period required to complete off shore
construction works of the project. Once the project has been defined, pertinent institutional
information, including environmental laws, regulations, and policies relevant to physical,
biological, socioeconomic, and cultural components of the environment, is collected. The
qualitative description to identify parameters causing potential direct, indirect, and ultimate
impacts on human health and ecosystems is the next activity within the initial phase of an
ESIA study. Such information is collected through a computer-aided literature search and by
preparing simple interaction matrices.
A quantitative impact assessment is the next phase of the ESIA study; this involves impact
assessment, impact prediction, and mitigation measures. It is the most challenging and
technically difficult phase of an ESIA study.
It is usually conducted by using mathematical models, laboratory testing, and the construction
of scale models. Identification and incorporation of mitigation measures ensure that the
proposed the project is acceptable in another activity in this phase. Various possible
mitigation alternatives identified and evaluated in this phase.
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In order for decision-makers to select a course of action, various project alternatives are
evaluated, including:
• No action
• Limiting the degree and magnitude of action to minimize the impact
• Rectifying the impact by rehabilitation and restoration of the affected environment
• Compensation of the impact by providing substitute resources or environment
The final phase of an ESIA study is the preparation of an ESIA report, which is a detailed
written statement with a full and fair description of the various ESIA activities discussed
above.
One of the important step in ESIA study is the identification of potential impact from any
developmental scheme or project implementation or modification. The qualitative
identification of anticipated impacts helps in describing the affected environment which
subsequently can be used in the quantitative assessment of the impact using models,
monitoring tools, and engineering calculations. The identification of potential impact also
helps in the scoping of the ESIA process. Using information from similar developed projects
and published information, generic impact from the project should be considered at initial
stage. This help planner of the impact studies to easily more identify the anticipated impacts.
Figure 4.2 shows an overall framework for identifying direct, indirect, and ultimate impacts
of proposed action or project which in this case is the Capital Maintenance dredging works
of the developments as per the Shoaiba RO Plant Phase IV Project Shoaiba situated on the
coast Red Sea .
Figure 4.2 Environment Impact Assessment Procedure (in General)
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Figure 4.3 Overall framework for identifying direct, indirect, and ultimate impacts
Figure 4.4 Steps Involved in Environmental and Social Impact Assessment

4.3. Strategy of the work
This ESIA study involves a large extent, baseline surveys and relies on the available
information related to various developments of Shoaiba RO Plant Phase IV Project, Shoaiba,
Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The marine baseline data were collected by ESIA study team. This
baseline information covers consciously the following important aspects of the marine
environments: water quality, marine flora, marine fauna, sediment quality, coral reefs,
currents, and waves. Basically, marine environment is part of a complete ecosystem that is
integrated with the surrounding coastal and terrestrial environment. Therefore, this SEA
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study has partially covered the following aspects: air quality, soil quality, terrestrial ecology
(i.e. flora and fauna).
4.4. ESIA Technical Disciplines
For a project of this nature and size, there would be a wide range of technical issues that
would have to be addressed. Each issue would be considered and a report prepared for each
according to the bid requirements. This includes:
Marine water quality
Flora and Fauna Composition, for:
• Marine, includes:
a. Coral Reefs;
b. Sea Grasses; and
c. Fish species
d. Turtles.
e. Marine mammals
f. Benthic Invertebrates and
g. Protected, Endangered and Threatened Species
• Currents and waves
• Sediment quality
• Dredging and Reclamation works
• Air quality
• Soil/Sediment quality
• Terrestrial ecology (flora and fauna)
• Wastes
• Social & Economic impacts
Step 1 Review of Applicable Legislations
The applicable laws and regulations which cover but not limited the following aspects were
compiled and listed:
• Marine life and water quality
• Dredging / Reclamation and Disposal of surplus dredged material
• Fisheries
• Solid waste management
• Wildlife protection
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National and regional standards and regulations, such as GAMEP , GERRI (2001) and RCER
(2015) are considered as primary legislations for assessing the environmental impact. Other
international standards such as the World Health Organization (WHO), the World Bank,
USEPA and IFC were applied if there are no specific requirements in primary standards.
Step 2 Project description
The project plan and existing environmental data and reports are covered under this task. This
task included but not limited to the description of the following subtasks:
• Project location
• Access to the site
• Existing developmental activities
• Project construction
• Project implementation
• Overall management structure
The plan overview provided by project designer and it has been used as baseline information
for the impact assessment study
Step 3 ESIA Methodology

Standard Guidelines of GAMEP for dredging works for the installation of off shore intake
and outfall pipelines for SROP Ph IV Project ,Shoaiba, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, as per
GERRI 2001 (Appendix 2.4) were followed.
1. Presentation of the Project:
2. Description of the Project and Its Objectives:
• Goals
• Need for the project
• Components of the project construction phases
• The workforce required for implementation of the project (minimum and maximum)
• The workforce required for operation of the project (minimum and maximum)
• Alternatives and options
This serves as a baseline for the project. This includes studies to establish baseline for the
following components of the ecosystem.
• Air quality
• Soil and topography
• Oceanography
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• Surface and ground water

• Land environment (fauna/flora)
• Marine environment (fauna/flora)
• Land ownership (original owner)

• Identification of the general potential impacts of the project and suggested
alternatives.
• Identification and analysis of key effects of the project on:
 Air quality
 The marine and coastal environment
 Surface and underground water
 Flora and fauna
 Land use and urban development
 Residential clusters
 General scenic view
 Others
6. Summary of the significant Impacts after Mitigation Processes:

Step 4 Review of available Baseline Data from the previous ESIA studies and Research
publications and Compilation together with current baseline studies
Baseline information contains physical and biological attributes of the marine environment as
well as the socio-economic status. Physical environmental includes information on
bathymetry of the area, hydrology, climatology, and soil/sediment and marine water quality.
Biological aspects includes the floral and faunal composition, vegetation and ecosystem
profile, and all marine descriptions exist. All the above information and data were collected
though site survey, field and laboratory analysis, and documentation review.
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Step 5 Environmental Social Impact Assessments

This section identify the potential environmental issues, quantify the resources consumption
and determine the significance of the impact on the regional marine environment using
relevant ESIA Methodologies and other state-of-the art tools used for ESIA study.
The following environmental components were covered in the study:
Marine Water Quality

The water quality attributes were estimated based on the influences resulting from or
associated with the Dredging and disposal of dredged material and installation of off shore
installation of intake and outfall pipelines. Such activities have the potential to affect the
Water Quality in a direct or an indirect way and cause contamination of surface water Marine
water.
Marine Flora and Fauna Composition

Based on the baseline information belongs to the marine floral and faunal compositions that
are established during ESIA study and literature review, an ESIA report is produced. The
ESIA study predicted the impacts such as loss of the habitat, decrease of reproduction and
disturbance.
Sediment Quality
Sediment quality were estimated from the sampling during field surveys .This section
identify the potential sediment type and quality in response to the Dredging and disposal
activities and off shore installation of intake and outfall pipelines. Environmental Social
Impact Assessment covered the different phases of the development of the project.
Climatology
This is to include temperature, humidity, wind speed and wind direction, etc. The interaction
of these parameters with the turbidity /suspended plume dispersion from the proposed
dredging and disposal works and off shore installation of intake and outfall pipelines.
Coastal Ecology (Flora and Fauna)

In addition to the available information on Coastal ecology in the ESIA the existence of flora
and fauna near to the proposed site were investigated by site survey and literature review. The
ESIA study predicted the impacts such as loss of the habitat, relocation, decrease of
reproduction and disturbance.
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Waste management
Waste generation was estimated based on the construction activities. This section identifies
the potential waste type and quantity. Environmental Social Impact Assessment covers all
phases of the development of the project.
Socio economic
Socio-economic impacts on the local community either positively or negatively were
evaluated due to the proposed project. The impact may include increase in the population,
housing demands, educational and health services, and social infrastructure and services.
Step 6 Mitigation Measures

Adverse impact can be minimized through better technologies, good management practices
and developing monitoring program. This task provides cost-effective solution for each of the
indicators listed above.
4.5. Impact Assessment Methodology
• Introduction
This section of the ESIA report outlines the scope and objectives of the impact
assessment and outlines the methodology used to predict, describe and assess the
significance of potential environmental impacts. A brief scoping matrix is provided in
appendices.
• Scope and Objectives

The receiving environment study provides a description of the area potentially affected by
the SROP Ph IV Project and its main Marine ecological, social and economic
characteristics. The main concerns and issues that need to be considered with respect to
the proposed Project activities and to confirm valued receptors (VR’s) which might be
affected by the Project.
This combined understanding of the project and the environmental conditions in the area
forms the basis of this impact assessment. The impact assessment covers construction,
and operation relevant to the Project.
• Methodology
The assessment methodology starts with the identification of potential impacts as a result of
the proposed Project. The potential changes to the environment that may result are then
described and evaluated using a significance ranking process.
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• Key Sensitivities and Valued Receptors

A valued receptor is any part of the environment that is considered important. In this context,
the broadest definition of ‘the environment’ is applied, such that VR’s may be selected
according to economic, social, aesthetic or ethical reasons as well as by consideration of
physical and biological characteristics. The determination of importance may consider legal
status, scientific or cultural value, and public perception; and may account for the views of
national or local government, international, national or local non-governmental organizations,
or the general public.
The selection of VR’s is dependent on the nature of the proposed project, because only those
environmental components that have the potential to be affected by the Project should be
selected as VR’s and thereafter considered in the impact assessment process. The
determination of VR’s therefore needs to consider the types of interaction with the
environment that the proposed Project is expected to have, along with its area of influence.
It is recognized that some VR’s may be considered to have greater importance than others
(based on legal status, vulnerability, public perception, biodiversity value, economic value
etc.), and therefore a simple evaluation of each VR’s is made to determine its relative
importance or sensitivity. This sensitivity rating (low, moderate or high) ensures that the
more important / vulnerable VR’s are afforded a greater weighting in the impact evaluation
process. A list of VR’s, their relative sensitivity and the reasons for their identification are
presented in Table 4.1. As a general example for VR’s identification
Table 4.2: Valued receptors

VR
VR CATEGORY VR JUSTIFICATION
SENSITIVITY
Climate & Air Air quality High Critical for health and quality
Quality of life
(human and flora/fauna)
Hydrology Wadi / drainage High Critical for drainage during
channels storm events
Hydrogeology Groundwater High Critical for life sustenance
Coastal Rocky desert habitat / High Critical to survival of fauna
Ecology vegetation and livestock
Sites with water High Have relatively high
available all year / biodiversity
wadis
Existing Flora High Provide ecosystem services
for fauna and livestock
Desert fauna – birds, Moderate to High Threatened species not
reptiles, small thought to be present, but
mammals information is limited; hence a
precautionary approach
Nubian ibex and High Classified as threatened by
________________________________________________________________________________________________ 109
VR
VR CATEGORY VR JUSTIFICATION
SENSITIVITY
gazelle IUCN
Marine Environment Moderate to High Provides media for
survivorship of marine species
and diversity in the region
Coral Communities Moderate Provide habitat (recruitment,
breeding habitat, food source)
for a range of noncommercial
and commercial species
Sea grass Low to Moderate Provide important habitat
Communities (food source, recruitment,
breeding habitat) for range of
non-commercial and
commercial species
Socio-economic Fisherman High Historical and cultural
Environment communities association with the land
Fishing area Moderate Critical for livelihoods of
Fisherman
Fish and shrimp farm Moderate Established commercial
enterprise
Local economy Low There is little economic
activity apart from as
identified above
Local infrastructure Moderate Depended upon by local
and resources communities
Cultural heritage Moderate Not much significant on a
local, regional or wider scale
Health Persons at fish Moderate Little significant
hatchery/nursery/ tank
assembly area
4.6. Environmental Impact Identification

The ISO 14001 Environmental Management System defines an impact as: “Any change to
the environment, whether adverse or beneficial, wholly or partially resulting from an
organization’s aspects.” An aspect is defined as “an element of an organization’s activities,
products or services that can interact with the environment” (International Standards
Organization [ISO], 2004).
Impacts can:
• Have a direct effect on the environment;
• Contribute only indirectly to an environmental change; or,
• Be cumulative in nature.
In the context of ESIA, cumulative impacts refer to “the combination of multiple impacts
from existing projects, the proposed project, and/or anticipated future projects that may result
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in significant adverse and/or beneficial impacts that would not be expect in case of a stand-
alone project” (IFC,2006).
Mitigation Measures
Mitigation measures aim to avoid, minimize or remedy the predicted negative impacts of a
proposed project or to compensate for those impacts that cannot be reduced (Morris and
Therivel, 2001).
Mitigation measures can include, but are not limited to, the following:
• The use of Best Available Technology (BAT);
• Modification of the project design;
• Alteration of the timing/scheduling of project construction/implementation;
• Rigorous waste management plans and waste minimization strategies;
• Following good international practice (GIP);
• Enhancement of the existing environment including ecological habitat and landscape;
and,
• Reparation for adverse impacts e.g. monetary compensation for the disturbance
caused to local communities.
In many cases, measures to reduce the potential impacts to the environment are incorporated
at the design stage and these are outlined in Section 3. Those measures are further highlighted
within Sections 6, 7 and 8 and additional general and project-specific mitigation is also
proposed.
Residual Impact Assessment
A residual impact is the impact remaining after the implementation of proposed mitigation
measures.
In this residual impact significance is assessed by combining the predicted severity of the
potential impact with the likelihood that the impact occur.
The assessment of the severity of the potential residual impacts includes consideration of the
following:
• Class (positive or negative); • Potential for cumulative effects;
• Importance/sensitivity of receptor; • Applicable/relevant legislation;
• Magnitude; • Public concern; and,
• Spatial extent; • Confidence.
• Duration;
• Timing and frequency;
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The definition and application of these criteria are described below.
CLASS
The classification of the impact addresses whether it has a beneficial (positive) or adverse
(negative) effect on the VR. Potential positive effects are noted as such but are not subject to
further assessment.
IMPORTANCE / SENSITIVITY OF RECEPTOR

This sensitivity rating (low, moderate or high) ensures that the more important/vulnerable VRs
are afforded a greater weighting in the impact evaluation process.
MAGNITUDE
The magnitude criterion considers the degree (low, moderate, large) to which impacts would
cause a deviation from baseline conditions.
SPATIAL EXTENT
The spatial extent of impact considers the geographical area over which the impact will be
experienced, from a project-specific area to a trans-boundary scale.
DURATION
An impact may be present only while a project activity is active, or it could persist long after the
project activity has ceased. In the latter case, duration of impact may be regarded as the time the
environmental receptor needs to recover from the effect. Thus, the duration-of-impact descriptor
incorporates the concept of reversibility/irreversibility of an impact.
TIMING AND FREQUENCY

Impacts may vary according to the timing of implementation of a proposed project (or part
thereof). For example, proposed SROP Ph IV Off shore operations may coincide with the tourist
season or with wildlife breeding seasons. The frequency of an impact can vary in line with the
associated environmental aspect and this can affect how a VR is affected. For example, an
impact may only occur once during a project or may occur multiple times during the lifetime of
the operation.
APPLICABLE / RELEVANT LEGISLATION

National and international legislation (GAMEP) relevant to the project needs to be considered
during the impact assessment. The legislation may refer to air emissions, discharge limits, waste
management or protected species and any breach of the set standards is automatically considered
to be of major significance.
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PUBLIC CONCERN
Public opinion surrounding a proposed project needs to be incorporated into the assessment
process such that impacts that are likely to cause concern are afforded a greater significance
ranking.
CONFIDENCE
All measurements or predictions of class, importance/sensitivity, magnitude, spatial extent,
duration etc. of an impact are made on the basis of available data and understanding of the
project. Based upon consideration of all of the above criteria, the predicted severity of the
potential impacts is categorized, as shown in Table below
4.7. Final Impact Significance

Final impact significance is determined by combining the predicted severity of the impact with
the likelihood that the impact may occur. This risk-based approach allows for the inclusion of
probability such that the final impact significance reflects the fact that some potential impacts,
while ‘major’ in terms of severity, may be highly unlikely to occur. The likelihood that an
impact may occur necessitates the incorporation of the probability that an event may take place
to cause the impact.
Table 4.2: Impacts
POSITIVE NEGATIVE
BENEFICIAL NEGLIGIBLE MINOR MODERATE MAJOR
Typically, impacts are Typically, impacts are Typically, impacts are

characterized by one characterized by one or characterized by one or
or more of the more of the following: more of the following:
following:
Positive impacts to the Low-sensitivity Moderately sensitive Highly sensitive receptor.

Impacts are receptor. receptor.
surrounding biological,
considered to be
physical and socioeconomic Low magnitude. Moderate magnitude. Large magnitude.
negligible or
environment e.g. local
indistinguishable Project area specific. Extending beyond the National or trans-boundary
employment and local
from Background project area. in Extent.
procurement of supplies and
variation.
services Short duration. Medium duration. Medium-long duration (or
Permanent).
Timing of project is Project timing may Project timing coincides

not significant. coincide with relevant with relevant breeding
breeding seasons. seasons.
Positive impacts are limits. Negligible impacts Compliant with Approaching legislative Non-compliant with
Non-compliant with are noted as such but applicable limits legislation
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legislation1. noted as such but are not subject to Legislation and
are not Subject to further further Assessment. guidelines.
assessment.
Low public concern. Moderate public Widespread public concern.
concern.
High confidence: Moderate confidence: Low confidence: lack of

good, directly limited data or lack of relevant information base or
applicable data are directly applicable data. directly relevant data.
available.
For routine events (e.g. planned project activities) the likelihood that the event taken place is
considered to be 100 %. The assessment of likelihood therefore focuses on the probability that
an impact occurred following the event. For non-routine events (e.g., leaks, spills) by definition,
the probability that the event taken place is never 100 % and may be very low. The assessment
of likelihood therefore considers both the probability that the event taken place and the
likelihood of a subsequent impact. If the probability of an event occurring is low, then the
probability of impact occurrence was low.
Likelihood is assigned using the criteria in Table 4.2.
Table 4.3: Likelihood Assessment
LOW MEDIUM HIGH
Less than 2% chance of Less than 25% chance of More than 25% chance of
occurrence occurrence occurrence
Impacts are assigned a value of likelihood based on the data available at the time of assessment.
Impact severity and likelihood are combined to give the overall residual impact significance, as
shown in Table 4.4.
Figure 4.5 : Residual Impact Significance

Potential impacts with a predicted residual significance of moderate or major are re-evaluated in
terms of their potential for off-setting strategies or compensation plans, which would seek to
balance the potential negative effect with the enhancement of other characteristics of the
environment.
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4.8. Impact Prediction – Scoping

In order to identify the potential impacts to environmental, socio-economic or health aspects, an
impact identification matrix is used. This compares each aspect of the Project with each
identified valued receptor and ensures that all potential impacts are considered. The matrix is
presented in Part II of the submittals
Table 4.4: Definitions of Attributes Used in the Effects Assessment Process
Attribute Definition
Direction The ultimate long-term trend of the effect; positive, negative or neutral
Magnitude The severity or intensity of the effect; typical measurements of magnitude
indicate (quantitative) gains or losses in features or (qualitative) changes in
conditions
Geographic The area over which the particular effect is expected to occur
Extent
Duration The time period over which the effect is expected to occur
Level of The anticipated accuracy of the prediction based on an understanding of the
Confidence limitations of the prediction exercise
Certainty The level of probability that the effects predicted occurs
Significance An overall measure of the effect on the receptor
Table 4.5: Effects Ratings Used for Assessing Socio-Economic Effects

Direction
Neutral No discernible positive or negative effect
Adverse Effect is worsening or is undesirable
Positive Effect is improving or is desirable
Magnitude
Negligible Outcomes that can be accommodated within the capacity of the existing
system or outcomes that do not add substantially to the capacity or quality
of the system.
Medium Outcomes that exceed the capacity of the existing system, but which can
be accommodated through reorganizations in the use of existing resources,
or outcomes which result in some increases or improvements to system
capacity.
High Outcomes that greatly exceeds the capacity of the existing system and
would require additional system capacity to remain functional, or which
greatly improve the capacity or quality of the system.
Geographic Extent
Local The Assessment Area
Regional The Region
Provincial Newfoundland and Labrador
Duration
Short-term Effects occurring over short periods (up to months) (implicit is the idea
that adjustments can be made over this timeframe to accommodate the
effects in question)
Medium-term Effects occurring over months or years (implicit is the idea that actions to
address the effects in question take some considerable time to implement)
Long-term Events occurring throughout the Project life (implicit is the idea that the
effects continue throughout the Project, either because these
are positive and therefore desirable, or because they are negative effects
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for which there are no avoidance or further mitigation strategies possible)

Level of Confidence
Low Limitations, such as deficiencies in primary and secondary data, or
uncertainties associated with external factors, which reduce the
Ability to make confident predictions.
Medium Moderate limitations in primary and secondary data which affect the
ability to make confident predictions.
High Few limitations in primary and secondary data allow high confidence in
predictions
Certainty of Occurrence
Low The effect is considered to have a low probability of occurring based on
analysis of previous experience in the area, from review of other relevant
literature, consultation with experts and professional judgment.
Medium The effect has a moderate probability of occurring.
High The effect has a high probability of occurring.
Significance
Significant Having a high magnitude for the medium or long-term at any geographic
scale
Not significant Anything other than significant
Significant Positive Effects that result in the increase in magnitude of any beneficial effect at
any geographic scale
Significant Effects that have a high magnitude negative effect over the medium-term
Negative or longer, at any geographic scale
4.9. Evaluation of Impacts
The evaluation of impacts in this Environmental and Social Impacts Assessment taken into
consideration the mitigation measures that the Project is already committed to on the basis of
work that has gone into the Front End Engineering and Design (FEED), together with those
measures that would be expected as part of good international practice. To the extent possible it
is the severity of the residual impacts that is being evaluated, i.e. those that remain after
mitigation measures have been applied. The residual impacts are assessed as described below.
The ESIA has reflected the status of the project based on available FEED information. Detail
design is yet to be undertaken so further detail on the precise nature of many mitigation
measures will be developed in the future. Environmental specifications, however, have been set
at the FEED stage. Designers and constructors will only have discretions as to the manner in
which those standards are achieved. These commitments will be taken by the Contractors and
converted into the detail necessary to implement them on the ground. This ensures that the
mitigation once applied which result in impacts that are not environmentally greater than those
predicted in the ESIA.
The ESIA should also contain recommendations for additional mitigation measures (beyond
current FEED commitments or as exceptions to good international practice). These
recommendations are based on the independent professional judgment of the ESIA authors.
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It should therefore be noted that significance or severity allocated to the residual impacts in this
ESIA will not necessarily be identical to those described herein at the time of project
implementation since further impact reduction will be investigated during detailed design for
many of the impacts. Actual impacts from the final project are expected to be no greater than
those described here.
4.9.1. Severity Criteria
The severity of the residual impact is assessed on the basis of:
• Impact probability;
• Impact consequence.
The assessment is made at the site, local, area and regional level. Special attention is paid to the
site-wide and local levels when assessing impacts. Vulnerable resources (e. g, red book species)
are also tracked.
In most assessments of environmental impact it is difficult to determine the quantitative value of
the environmental change. The methodology proposed is a semi-quantitative assessment based
on scores, the basis of which is presented below.
The severity of anthropogenic disturbances of the environment is assessed on the following
parameters:
• Spatial scale;
• Temporal scale;
• Intensity.
For each environmental component the methodology determines the severity of each parameter
based on a scale gradation between 1 and 4 for which criteria have been established based on the
authors experience on similar projects and the understanding they have of the receiving
environment.
For the Environmental Social Impact Assessment a 4-point scale are used, whilst for the socio-
economic impact assessment a 5-point scale was used. This is because an environmental impact
may emerge during an activity and cannot be assessed as having zero impact. However this is
not the case with the socio-economic impact assessment where a zero impact may be observed,
e.g. offshore dredging operations have a zero impact on population health. The zero
environmental impact may only occur if there is a complete absence of anthropogenic activity or
if the impact is related to the natural variability of the environment.
4.9.2. Definition of Spatial Scale for Environmental Impacts
Definition of spatial scale impacts are based, on technical analysis, mathematical modeling, or
on the basis of expert judgment; they are presented in Table 4.5.
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Table 4.6: Spatial (area) gradations of environmental impacts

Scale of spatial
Criterion Score I
impact
Impact area is up Impact is registered at the distance 100 m from the
Site 1
to 1 km linear object
Impact area is up Impact is registered at the distance 1 km from the
Limited 2
to 10 km linear object
Impact area from Impact is registered at the distance from 1km to
Area 3
10 to 100 km 10km from the linear object
Impact area Impact is registered at the distance exceeding 10 km
Regional 4
exceeds 100 km from the linear object
Site- impact – an impact affecting the components of the environment within the territory
2
(water area) up to 1 km influencing the land geographical complexes at the level faces or
stows*.
Limited impact – an impact affecting the components of the environment within the territory
2
(water area) up to 10 km influencing the land geographical complexes at the level of the groups
of stows or the locality.
Area impact – an impact affecting the components of the environment, limited territories (water
areas) of the object location or territories inconsiderably exceeding the object’s area (up to
2
100km ) influencing the elementary land geographical complexes at the landscape** level .
Regional impact – an impact affecting the components of the environment in the regional scale
2
within the territory (water area) exceeding 100 km influencing the land geographical complexes
at the level of districts or provinces.
Stow – group of elementary ecosystem (e.g. Coastal marshes)
Landscape – group of stow (e.g. Flood plane of the Rabigh coast)
4.9.3. Definition of Temporal Scale for Environmental Impacts

Definition of temporal scale impacts are based on particular environmental components defined
on the basis of technical analysis, analytical (modeling) assessments or expert judgment; they
are presented in Table 4.6 and further described below.
Table 4.7: Gradation of temporal impact assessment
Scale of Temporal Impact Criterion Score
Short-term Impact observed for up to 3 months 1
Medium-term Impact is observed from 3 months to 1 year 2
Long-term Impact observed from 1 to 3 years 3
Multiyear and permanent Impact observed for more than 3 years 4
Short-term impact – an impact observed for a limited period of time (in the course of
construction, drilling or decommissioning activities), but, as a rule, disappearing after
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completion of operations; its duration does not exceed one season (assumed as 3
months)
Medium term impact – an impact observed for more than one season (3 months) up
to one year.
Long-term impact - an impact observed for a long period of time (more than one year
but less than 3 years) and covers the period of project construction
Multi-year and permanent impact– impacts is observed from 3 to 5 years and more
(noise from operation) and which may be rather characterized as recurrent or periodic
(an impact as a result of annual operations related to the technical maintenance).
Generally corresponds to the period in which design capacity is achieved.
4.9.4. Definition of Intensity (Value/Magnitude) Scale for Environmental Impacts

The scale of intensity is defined on the basis of ecological-toxicological studies expert judgment
and is presented in Table 4.7.
Table 4.8: Intensity scale gradation for environmental impacts
Scale of Intensity
Criterion Score
impact
Environmental changes are within the existing limits of natural
Negligible 1
variations.
Environmental changes exceed the existing limits of natural
Minor 2
variations. Natural environment is completely self-recoverable.
Environmental changes exceed the existing limits of natural
Moderate variations and result in damage to the separate environmental 3
components. Natural environment remains self-recoverable.
Environmental changes result in significant disturbance to particular
Major environmental components and ecosystems. Certain environmental 4
components lose self-recovering ability.
4.9.5. Integrated Assessment of Impact from Various Impact Sources upon Particular
Environmental Components
The integrated assessment is a multi-step process.
Step 1: Tables presenting impact criteria (Tables 4.8, 4.9 and 4.10) are used to obtain the
integrated impact score for a particular environmental component. Integrated scores are defined
by the following formula:
Qiintegr =Qtix QsixQi j
where:
Qiintegr – Integrated assessment score for the defined impact;
Qti–Temporal impact score for i environmental component;
Qsi–Spatial impact score for i environmental component;
Qi j–Intensity impact score for i environmental component;
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Step 2: The category of severity is determined by the band in which the score, which has been
derived from the integrated assessment calculation, falls into, as shown in Table below.
Table 4.9: Categories of impact severity
Integrated Categories of severity
Categories of severity score
Scores Severity
Spatial scale Temporal Impact
scale intensity
Site Short-term Negligible
1
1 1 1
Limited Medium-term Minor Impact of low severity
8 1- 8
2 2 2 (negligible impact)
Impact of moderate
Area Long-term Moderate
27 9- 27 severity (moderate
3 3 3
impact)
Regional Multi year Serious Impact of high severity
64 28 - 64
4 4 4 (major impact)
This ESIA considers three categories of impact severity – negligible, moderate and major, as
described in description below.
Low severity impact (negligible impact) is observed in case the consequences occur
but impact is rather low (both mitigated and unmitigated) and falls within the
permissible standards limits or the receptors are characterized by either low sensitivity
or value.
Moderate severity impact (moderate impact) may be characterized by a wide range
that starts from the threshold value slightly exceeding the negligible impact level and
ends at the level almost exceeding the legislative limits. Mitigation of moderate impact
should be demonstrated if possible.
High severity impact (major impact) is registered when permissible limits are
exceeded or in case the large-scale impact is registered especially in respect of
valuable\sensitive resources.
The category of severity is defined for the impact on the following environmental components:
• Soil /Sediment;
• Marine waters;
• Bottom sediments;
• Atmospheric air quality;
• Marine and land biological resources;
• Landscapes;
• Physical factors (noise and electromagnetic impact, vibration, etc.).
An example of the integrated assessment is presented in Table below.
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Table 4.10: An example of the integrated assessment

Environmental Sources and Spatial Temporal Impact Integrated Impact
Component types of impact impact intensity score severity
impact gradation gradation gradation
Atmospheric air Effect of 2 3 1 6 Low
emissions on Local Long- Negligible
photochemical term
smog
formation
Effect of 2 2 3 12 Medium
emissions on Local Local Moderate
acid rains
formation
Effect of 2 3 3 18 Medium
emissions on Local Long- Moderate
atmospheric term
air quality
4.9.6. Assessment of Cumulative Impact and Different Impacts

This section is based on the recommendations of the European Commission (EC) Guidance (EC
Guidelines May 1999), which provides a definition of indirect and cumulative impacts and
impact interactions.
Indirect impacts. Environmental impacts that do not result directly (immediately) from the
project, occur at some distance from project area or occur from a chain of cause and effect from
the project. It may be referred to as a secondary impact.
Cumulative impacts. Impacts resulting from the permanently increasing impact caused in its
turn by the other former, present or soundly predictable operations associated with project
realization. While assessing the potential cumulative impacts, the impact of another projects is
also assessed, the combination of which can lead to more extensive and severe impacts
Each project may have an insignificant effect on its own, but the combined effects may be
considerable. This occurs particularly where, for example, air quality is already compromised in
a region, but does not exceed standards and each project will not exceed the standards, but the
large number or large size of new projects may push the region into non-compliance.
Interaction of various impact sources. Impacts interaction are the reactions between the
different impact types (either between the impacts of one project only or between impacts of
other projects of the same sphere).
Following EC Guidance assessment of indirect and cumulative impacts and different impacts
interaction should not be reviewed as a separate ESIA process stage. Undoubtedly, assessment
of these types of impact is an integrated part of all ESIA stages. The above mentioned EC
Guidance provides descriptions of eight methods and instruments that were selected in the
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course of thematic studies and references analysis. In general the abovementioned methods and
instruments may be subdivided into two main groups:
Methods of impact review and identification – aimed at determination of the way and place of
indirect and cumulative impacts and impact interactions occurrence;
Assessment methods – used for measuring and forecasting impact scale and severity based on
the study of impacts intensity and circumstances of impact occurrence and demonstration.
Combination of different methods or introduction of these approaches at different stages is
allowed in the course of ESIA.
4.9.7. Cumulative Impacts Assessment
Assessment of cumulative impacts comprises two stages:
• Identification (screening) of possible cumulative impacts (cumulative impacts
screening);
• Assessment of cumulative impact upon natural environment components.
Identification of potential cumulative impacts is defined by the plain matrix based on the
impacts upon different environmental components that have already occurred on this territory
and impacts that may occur from project implementation. The matrices identify the impacts
upon different environmental components occurring at different project stages (construction,
operation and decommissioning). This matrix must also define the cause of cumulative impact
occurrence – extension of impact area, increase of impact duration or intensity.
Assessment of cumulative impact upon natural environment components. Assessment of impact
upon particular environmental component is carried out for identified environmental
components and impact sources in accordance with the method presented in this chapter for
routine operations. Cumulative effect resulting from area, duration or intensity increase is
considered. Integrated impact assessment has been determined and impact significance has been
identified for the results of the cumulative impact assessment for the different environmental
components.
4.9.8. Assessment of Different Impact Sources Interaction
There may be an overlap of environmental impact zones given the simultaneous operation of
several impact sources. In these zones impact intensity is of high significance compared to
impact from the single source. In case of different impact sources, the interaction of
environmental impacts is assessed in compliance with the same scheme as assessment of
cumulative effects impact upon environment:
• Identification (compilation of list) of possible impact sources interaction (impacts
screening);
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• Assessment of impact upon natural environment components in case of different impact

sources interaction.
Similar to cumulative impact assessment, identification of potential combined impacts from
different sources is defined by the plain matrix arraying, where the impacts from different
sources upon different environmental components are shown. Assessment of combined impact
effects upon natural environment components. Assessment of impact upon particular
environmental component is carried out for identified environmental components and impact
sources in accordance with the method reviewed. Besides, joint effect resulting from increase of
intensity in the area of combined impact of these sources is considered.
Integrated impact assessment has been determined and impact significance has been identified
for obtained results of combined impact assessment of different sources as per the environmental
components.
4.9.9. Trans-boundary Impacts
Following the World Bank documents OP 4.01 Trans boundary impacts (impacts registered
beyond the state boundaries) have been be considered in the course of ESIA.
Trans boundary impacts may Polluants transportation in ambiant air
affect the following: Atmospheric
air
Soil Pollutants fall-out from atmosphere during pollutants
trans boundary transfer in ambient air.
Sea water Pollutants fall-out from atmosphere during pollutants
trans boundary transfer in ambient air.
Pollutants transportation with sea water
Vegetation Potential impact upon vegetation growing in the
neighboring country caused by acid rains forming because
of pollutants trans boundary transfer in atmosphere.
Mammals, ornitho fauna and In case of significant project impact upon migrating
ichthyo fauna species if migration routes pass through other countries.
Specially protected natural Potential impact upon offshore and onshore natural
territories and national parks environment
Tran’s boundary impacts assessment process comprises several stages:

• Stage 1. Screening. Environmental components of the zone that is beyond the state
boundaries are selected from the impacts integrated assessment matrix for routine and
non-routine (emergency) situations using the spatial impact scale;
• Stage 2. Impact area. The area located on the other state territory is subtracted from
the total impact area;
• Stage 3. Impact duration. Impact duration will be permanent for routine operations
(e.g. for operation period). Time period during which impact can be registered at the
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neighboring state territory must be estimated for emergency situations (e.g. pollutants
concentration increase in atmosphere of the neighboring country will not be registered
during the whole period of emergency and effects elimination);
• Stage 4. Intensity score of impact upon each selected environmental component. This
score may differ from impact intensity score for the whole impact area. For instance,
during the emergency situation associated with pollutants emission into atmospheric air
the average concentration of one pollutant on impact area equaled 7 MPC (score 3
according to intensity scale), while on the neighboring country territory under impact it
equaled 1.5 MPC that corresponds to score 2 of intensity scale;
• Stage 5. Spatial and temporal scale of Trans boundary impact and its intensity. Either
integrated impact assessment upon the certain environmental component during trans
boundary impact or integrated assessment of impact upon all environmental
components of the neighboring country is received. These integrated assessments may
be used for alternatives’ comparison.
4.9.10. Assessment of Residual Impacts Significance, Impact Value Criteria and Impact
Probability
The impacts remaining after mitigation measures have been applied are called residual impacts.
The severity of the residual impact is assessed on the basis of:
• Impact consequence;
• Impact probability.
The assessment of possible positive and negative residual impacts is made at the following
levels:
Site (immediate geographic vicinity of the project);
Local (administrative district or districts closest to the project);
• Oblast;
• Regional;
• National.
Special attention is paid to the site and local levels when assessing the impacts, i.e. territories
planned for project implementation and the nearby settlements. Having assessed the impact on
population in general, impact on “vulnerable groups” is tracked. This group includes the
unemployed, pensioners, low paid workers and non-qualified persons.
In most of assessments of socio-economic components change it is extremely difficult to
determine the quantitative value of changes. In this regard the given methodology represents
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techniques of semi-quantitative assessment that is based on scores, its principles being described
below.
The consequence of an impact is assessed for a combination of selected factors that provide a
means to concisely characterize the impact, namely: spatial, temporal and magnitude.
For each socio-economic component the methodology assigns impacts on a scale between 0 and
5.
Appropriate criteria have been developed for each socio-economic impact shown in Tables
below and are based on the author’s experience on similar projects.
4.9.11. Impact Assessment definitions

The process of ESIA includes the assessment of significance of the impacts.
To assess the predicted impacts of the works in a consistent manner, judgments were made of:
1. The magnitude of the impact, how great is the change from the baseline condition?
2. The sensitivity of the receptor: how capable is it of accommodating a change without
serious disturbance?
3. The significance of the impact: determined by combining the magnitude of the impact and
the sensitivity of the receptor.
The General Impact Magnitude Definition:
No (or negligible) Impact A resource or receptor will not be affected in any way by a
Particular Activity or the predicted effect is deemed to be
‘negligible’ from natural Background variations.
Low Impact An effect will be experienced, but the impact magnitude is
Sufficiently Small and well within acceptable standard, and/or
Moderate Impact An effect within acceptable limits and standard. Moderate
Impacts may cover a broad range, from a threshold below
which The impact is minor, Up to a level that might be just
short of Breaching a legal limit.
High Impact An accepted limit or standard may be exceeded or large
Magnitude Impacts occur to highly valued/ sensitive/ resource/
Receptors.
General definitions above were used for most topics In addition specific criteria were developed
for the above environment as shown in Table 4.11.
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Table 4.11: General Impact Significance Assessment Matrix (for all environmental
aspects)
With high sensitivity With moderate With low With negligible
sensitivity sensitivity sensitivity
With high impact Very Substantial Substantial Moderate None
magnitude
With moderate Substantial Moderate Slight None
impact magnitude
With low impact Moderate Slight Slight None
magnitude
With negligible None None None None
impact magnitude
The methodologies such as checklists and matrices (2 ways / 3 ways) as appropriate to the
impacts were applied to assess the significance of the impacts. In addition specific criteria will
be developed for the marine environment as shown Table 4.11 and Table 4.12.
Table 4.12: Impact Magnitude (Marine Environmental)

Magnitude Criteria
High The disruption is wide spread and occurs over a long duration.
It affects marine life in the operation phase as well as construction.
Moderate There will be a moderate amount of disturbance. The effects will mainly be
contained within the local area, and the duration of the impacts will be of a
medium term (e.g. 1-2 years).
Low The disruption is in a small area, and the duration of the construction phase is
short. Once in operation it is not expected that the project will have a
detrimental effect on the marine ecosystems.
Negligible There is very little or no impact to marine ecosystems during either
construction or operation of the project.
Table 4.3 Receptor Sensitivity (Marine Environment)

Sensitivity Criteria
High An unmodified ecosystem with high levels of healthy marine life. May be
classed by the relevant authorities as a 'protected area', or be of an equivalent
standard to such areas.
Moderate An ecosystem subject to some adverse impacts from human or natural causes
but still with high levels of healthy marine life. Although a valuable
environment, it is not classed as a protected area.
Low An ecosystem which has already been substantially affected in some form by
either human influences or natural events. Coral reefs and marine life are
either sparse or impacted by various pressures.
Negligible Heavily impacted ecosystem and/or low species presence and diversity.
4.10. Biological Environment

4.10.1. Marine Ecology Survey
Field surveys of plankton, nekton, benthos, and fisheries were carried out by the EBE study
team an independent assessment as part of the ESIA study. Several dive surveys were carried
out along transects in the project site.
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The area has sparse reefs, whose species are generally of low diversity and abundance. None are
influenced by sediments. No species were recorded to be confined to the proposed development
area and no rare or endangered species were recorded. There are no protected habitats around
the site
Schedules and Plans held during Off shore ESIA Study of SROP Ph IV project were:
♦ Desk based assessment of available information from SWCC & DHIC Shoaiba , and
literature search.
♦ Scope of potentially significant impacts
♦ Meeting with SWCC & DHIC ,GAMEP, Municipality of Jeddah and Makkah
♦ Initial site visit
♦ Field surveys
♦ Collection and interpretation of information in to ESIA
♦ Preparing of Draft ESIA report
♦ Submission of ESIA report to Client
Table 4.14: Information Sources
Information Source
1 Project Description, Project design SWCC,DHIC
2 Historical data on Environmental Baseline GAMEP,King Abdul Aziz University
,Ministry of civil defense
3 Proposed, Environmental Monitoring SWCC,DHIC.
Techniques. In the project design
4 Coastal Ecology Coastal Ecological Survey by
(EBE)team
5 Ambient Air Quality EBE Field Survey Team
6 Water and Sediment Sampling EBE Field Survey Team
7 Marine Survey EBE Field Survey Team
8 Noise Monitoring EBE Field Survey Team
9 Meteorological Monitoring EBE Field Survey Team
10 Soils and Geology EBE Field Survey Team
11 Socio-Economics EBE Field Survey Team
12 Waste Management EBE Field Survey Team
13 Traffic and Management EBE Field Survey Team
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SECTION 5: EXISTING ENVIRONMENTAL

CONDITIONS OFF SHOAIBA PHASE IV OFFSHORE
AREA
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SECTION 5: EXISTING ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS OFF

SHOAIBA PHASE IV OFFSHORE AREA
5.1 Introduction
This chapter presents a detailed understanding of the prevailing environment of Shoaiba RO
phase 4 desalinization plant Project site in which the information is generated during the SEA by
field surveys; the project site is located North west of existing Shoaiba IWPP and Power Plants
and 110 kms south of Jeddah City. The land consists of flat plain and sandy beach bounded by,
south west newly desalinization plant under construction, existing Shoaiba IWPP and Power
Plant, North East and North vacant land and to the west Red sea
Figure 5.1: Location of SRO phase IV project site
5.2. Preface (General, Geographical & Topographical Settings of Shuqaiq area)
The proposed project site is located on the Red Sea coast approximately 110 km to the south of
the city of Jeddah, 100 km north of Allith town and 90 km west of holy city of Makkah Al
Mukarrama in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The proposed project site is approximately 8 km
off the main Jeddah – Jazan highway road and adjacent to the fence limit on the north west of
Shoaiba IWPP which is neighbouring the SWCC Plant. The approximate size of the proposed
project land is app. 05 km by 0.35 km in area.
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The General Environmental Regulations define the environment as “all that surrounds man such
as water, air, land and outer space and all the contents of these milieus such as inanimate
objects, flora, fauna, various forms of energy, systems and natural processes and human
activities”. Based on this definition, possible impacts from the development to be considered in
the SEA include impacts on the natural environment, impacts on the social and economic
environment and impacts on the built environment including utilities and public services.
Positive impacts are considered, as well as negative impacts. In addition to identifying potential
impacts the SEA provides guidance on the mitigation measures that are required in order to
avoid or minimize negative impacts.
In order to identify and assess potential impacts of the development on the environment the
baseline condition of the site must be established. Baseline conditions in terms of a number of
discipline areas have been considered in this study, with an in-depth discussion provided where
appropriate. Baseline conditions have been established from site visits, site survey and
monitoring and the review of available data.
The discipline areas considered are listed as follows:

♦ Marine and coastal
♦ Terrestrial flora and fauna
♦ Socio-economic
♦ Geology and soils
♦ Energy efficiency and use of resources
♦ Air quality and microclimate
♦ Noise and vibration
♦ Archaeology and heritage
♦ Landscape and visual
♦ Transport
♦ Waste management.
Most of the site is unoccupied, with development works yet to commence. Areas immediately
adjacent to the site are understood to be vacant, with the Jazan to Jeddah highway to the East
and immediate west is Red Sea.
The site poses a risk to the natural environment if not developed appropriately. Environmental
consideration should form part of the development process as early as the site selection stage.
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A number of recommendations are made within the report for development design, and where
possible these should be considered with further development of the concept master plan.
Flood risk – there are limited surface water features on site, with anecdotal evidence that surface
water locally ponds before dissipating into the sand.
Water resources – there are limited resources available at present to the site west to the site is
Red Sea.
Transportation – there is an existing highway network to the east and south of the site that will
be extended. There is no public transit at present.
Noise and Vibration – the site is unpopulated and so the baseline conditions are low. The
nearest receptors are several kilometers away.
Air Quality - the site is unpopulated and so the baseline conditions are low, however the nearest
receptors are several kilometers away.
Soils and Groundwater – the ground conditions comprise sand overlying limestone.
Terrestrial Ecology – any species are likely to be limited, a detailed study on Bio diversity of
the site is presented in onshore section of the report.
Energy and Utilities – these shall have to be brought into the site as there is little or no current
supply. These may present a constraint.
Waste – no waste is currently generated by the site. Mitigation measures should be included in
the design to limit waste generation, movement and disposal.
Cultural Heritage – there is no significant cultural heritage within the site boundary
Populations –within the site boundary populations are none.

On balance it is concluded that, provided the mitigation measures ultimately recommended in
the Environmental and Social Impact Assessment are carried out, the site is suitable for
development of a power plant.
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5.3. Introduction to the existing conditions of SRO phase IV Site (General, Geographical &
Topographical Settings of SRO Phase IV)
Most of the site is unoccupied, with development works yet to commence on site. The coastal
plain between Jeddah and Shoaiab is an area of dry desert plain with winter grasses and low
lying scrub grazed by camel herds and goat herds. Some of the small villages approximately
30km south east of Shoaiba can be seen between the road and the shoreline.
Areas immediately adjacent to the site are understood to be vacant, with the Jazan to Jeddah
highway 2 km to the East and immediate west is Red Sea. The site is bound by corniche to the
west.
Field investigations along with remotely sensed satellite imagery data with the use of
Geographic Information Systems (GIS) were utilized to get obtain detailed information on
topography, geology, soil conditions, vegetation, and land use.
The SEA for marine environment has been carried out separately by Environmental Balance
Establishment Ltd (EBE).
5.4. Site location and plot plan

The Plant shall be developed as reverse Osmosis Desalinization plant and shall be located at
Shoaiba approximately 110 km South of Jeddah City on the shore of the Red Sea, as indicated in
the figure below.
Figure 5.2: locations of Shoaiba RO Phase IV Project
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Table 5.1: Information Gaps identified for SRO4 Baseline (Data Deficiency)
Table below given summary of the status of the available baseline data and indicates the significance of known information gaps.
Issue Available Data Data Adequacy Information
Gap
Meteorological Historical information available No No
Information
Climate
Air quality & No data is available Data has to be collected from studies Yes
microclimate
Ground Water Quality & Few information available More information is required Yes
drainage
Ecology No information is available at present No natural flora & fauna is found Yes
Waste Management Few information is available with planner More information is required Yes
Noise and No data available More information is required Yes
vibration
Table 5.2: Information on Environmental baseline of the proposed SROP Project Site
Components Status of Baseline Information Description
Air Quality The ambient air quality is affected by vehicular emissions, The Ambient air quality studies have
construction equipments and the emission from boats, vessels been carried out. Results are presented
barges & ships in Volume II of SEA onshore the
submittals
Climate Data available with PME (General information on meteorological The meteorological informationv have
condition) been collected. Results are presented in
________________________________________________________________________________________________ 133
Volume II of the SEA onshore

submittals.
General Topography Baseline is available with the client Report is presented in Volume II of the
SEA onshore submittals
Geo Technical Studies M/s Doosan conducted this study through Consultant Report is presented in Volume II of the
SEA submittals
Water Environment In addition to the present information, Water quality studies have Baseline studies have been carried out
Results are presented in Volume II of
Surface Water (Red Sea) been carried out
the SEA submittals
Terrestrial Ecology At present information is not available with regard terrestrial Baseline studies have been carried out
ecology to the vicinity of SSPP project site. Report is presented in SEA of onshore
Archeological and Heritage No such areas are found in the vicinity of project site -----------
Noise and Vibration Currently information on noise in the vicinity of SSPP project site is Noise studies have been carried out by
EBE. Results are presented in Volume II
not available.
of SEA onshore.
Marine Ecology Currently information on marine ecology in the vicinity of SSPP Baseline studies have been carried out
project site is not available. Report is presented in volume II
submitals
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Table 5.3: Environmental Baseline Matrix for the Project off shore works of SRO4
Identification Evaluation
Scale of Scale of present Scale of
Importance condition Management
Environmental elements/units
1 2 3 4 5 1 2 3 4 5 1 2 3 4 5
low high low high low high
Biological
Flora 1 1 1
Fauna 1 1 1
Ecological relationships 1 1 1
Physico-chemical
Atmosphere 5 3 5
Water 5 3 5
Earth 5 3 5
Cultural
Households 5 3 5
Communities 5 3 5
Economy 5 3 5
Communications 5 3 5
Bio-cultural linkages/units
Resources 5 3 5
Recreation 5 3 5
Conservation 5 3 5
Table 5.4: Socio-Economic Factors and their Potential Changes predicted from SRO4
Implementation
Sl.
Factor Potential change
No.
General characteristics and trends in
1. population for shoaiba’s study area Increase in various distributions:
2. Economic history for the region and city Increase in economic activities,
change in economic patterns
3. Employment and unemployment patterns in Increase in overall employment
study area, including occupational distribution levels
and location and availability of workforce
4. Income levels and trends for study area, Land- Increase in income Levels
use patterns and controls for study area Change in land usage, project may
be in
5. Land values in study area Increase in land values
6. Housing characteristics in study area, including Changes in types of housing and
types of housing occupancy levels. occupancy levels.
7. Health and social services in study area, No significance changes in
including health services, manpower, fire expected
protection, water supply, wastewater-treatment
facilities, solid waste collection and disposal
and utilities transportation
________________________________________________________________________________________________ 135
8. Community attitudes and lifestyles Positive changes in attitudes and

lifestyles
9. Aesthetic values No significant changes expected
5.5. General, Geographical & Topographical Settings of SRO4

The topography of the area is characterized as a flat coastal plain with elevations not exceeding
more than about 1.5 to 2.25 m AOD for about 2 to 3 km from the site.
Most of the site is unoccupied, with development works yet to commence on site. The Coastal
plain between existing IWPP and SRO Phase IV is an area of dry desert plain with winter
grasses and low lying scrub grazed by camel herds and goat herds. Areas immediately adjacent
to the site are understood to be vacant, with road to the East and immediate west is Red Sea.
Field investigations along with remotely sensed satellite imagery data with the use of
Geographic Information Systems (GIS) were utilized to get obtain detailed information on
topography, geology, soil conditions, vegetation, and land use.
The detailed topographic Survey Report is presented in Volume II of the ESIA submittals
5.6. Geological history
Paleogeographic and stratigraphic data suggest the Red Sea and Mediterranean Sea were
connected prior to the Cainozoic Era. During the Oligocene Era, a rapid increase in tectonic
activity along a north -west/south-east trending fault caused the Saudi Arabian tectonic plate to
move north-eastward away from the African plate. Structural features and magnetic anomalies
for the area provide evidence that the movement of the Arabian plate has been rotational about a
pivot point somewhere to the north of the Sinai.
Progressive movement caused horst and graben fault and tilting along the western side of the
Saudi Arabian plate, which accounts for the mountainous areas that parallel the coastline.
Figure 5.3 -General Geological Map of Saudi Arabia

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During the Miocene Epoch, the Red Sea is thought to have been periodically isolated, resulting
in the formation of salt and halite deposits in the south. In the late Miocene and early Pliocene
Epochs, the opening of the Red Sea to the Indian Ocean was permanently established. The
shallow coastal waters of the Red Sea resulted from deposition accompanied by simultaneous
fault throughout the Tertiary period, as well as from coral reef accumulation along horst edges
of tilted blocks during the Pliocene, Pleistocene and recent epochs.
The geology of the region is summarized in Figures 5.3. The three physiographic domains corre-
spond to three separate geologic domains. Along the Red Sea coast, under the Tihamat al Hijaz,
lies a great thickness of Tertiary sedimentary rocks. Being friable, they are barely exposed in
most places and are generally covered by a thin veneer of Quaternary alluvium or coral.
Where tongues of Tertiary lava have flowed down onto the coastal plain they have formed
resistant caps so that most exposures of Tertiary sedimentary rock are along their margins. They
are un-metamorphosed and essentially under-formed. The predominant structural feature of this
domain is a set of normal faults that strike roughly north-northwestward along the margin of the
Red Sea. They cut both Tertiary and Precambrian rocks but have caused very little lateral
displacement. A prominent feature of the coastal plain is the Quaternary to Recent coral reef,
which extends along the coast—mainly onshore in the north and offshore in the south.
Figure 5.4: Geological Map of different regions of Saudi Arabia
________________________________________________________________________________________________ 137
Figure 5.5: Geologic Map of Arabian Peninsula

The published geological map of the area (Ministry of Petroleum and Mineral Resources,
1989(d), together with the explanatory Memoir (Ministry of Petroleum and Mineral Resources,
1989(b) shows that the study area is underlain by a thin mantle of aeolian and alluvial sands of
the coastal plain and the Miocene Ubhur Formation (see Fig 5.27). The Ubhur Formation is
generally comprised by clays, siltstone and soft white bioclastic limestone.
Previous boreholes within the Tihamat Al Hijaz Coastal Plain have also recorded sequences of
clay and black shale intersected with evaporitic beds. It is thought that the limestones of this
stratum are prone to formation off cavities and sinkholes that are often infilled with the
overlying alluvial deposits.The ground conditions underlying the site are anticipated to be
similar to these sections.
5.7. Soil and Hydrogeology of the area
The subsurface geotechnical investigation and water sampling were carried out to evaluate the
subsurface soil and ground water quality, including the degree of the soil contamination for
project site. The detaile are provided in the onshore SEA.
5.7.1. Soil Characterization
The surface condition of the study plant area has shown that the top soil at the site consists of silty
SAND with GRAVEL or coral origin. The subsurface soils below the top soil consist of silty sand
with gravely nature. Clayey SAND with silt and silty / clayey GRAVEL with sand was also
encountered at the depth ranging from 3.0 meters to 15.0 meters from surface level. In accordance
with the ASTM classification, these materials can be described as silty SAND with gravel, and silty /
clayey GRAVEL with sand and silt belonging to coral origin.
________________________________________________________________________________________________ 138
5.7.2. Hydrogeology
The main aquifers that are expected in the area are the relatively high permeability alluvial sands
and the variable permeability limestone strata of the Ubhur Formation. Due to the sites
proximity to the Red Sea (<10km) it is possible that groundwater levels will be relatively
shallow.
5.8. Seismological Data / Earthquake
Shoaiba is lying in a tectonically active area, the Red Sea Rift being considered the most
signified zone; it is recommended that structures to be designed for earthquake resistance in
accordance with recommendations of the latest edition of the Unified Building Code 1997 Zone
I and seismic parameters listed in ASCE 7.
In the recent past, major earthquake shocks have not been reported in the Western Saudi Arabia
region. Mortimer-Lloyd [1983] reported active seismic zone along the Red Sea coast resulting in
earthquakes in Yemen (1982) and Egypt (1992). He also reported that parts of the Saudi Arabia,
Kuwait, Oman and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) fall into a seismic zone in which a seismic
shock of intensity varies low to moderate. According to the study by world health organization,
the seismic hazard for Saudi Arabia ranges between low to moderate. There are regions in the
Saudi Arabia where peak ground acceleration (PGA) reaches 0.2g and 0.3g (where g is the
gravity of earth) in 50 years for 10 and 5 percent probabilities of exceedance respectively
(Haddad et al., 1992). Recent earthquakes surrounding Red sea region are shown in Figure 6.8.
Figure 5.6: Seismic Hazard Distribution Map for the Kingdom (WHO, 2007)
________________________________________________________________________________________________ 139
Figure 5.7: Map of the Arabian Peninsula and Surrounding Regions, Major geographic and
tectonic/geologic features are indicated. Plate boundaries are indicated by yellow lines.
Earthquakes and volcanic centers are shown as red circles and yellow diamond, respectively
Saudi Arabia is rapidly growing country, in recent years many areas are witnessed with much
increase in construction activities. Therefore, it is important that structures such as
telecommunication, airports and harbors, hospitals, schools and utility and other services should
remain largely undamaged in the event of an earthquake shock. The assessment of seismic
hazard involves in collecting and evaluating a wide range of data pertaining to the history and
occurrence of earthquakes in a region and to their origin. Seismic zoning map and other basic
data are required for the development of standard code for seismic design of structures.
The seismic zoning map for the Saudi Arabia is shown in Figure 5.7. The map indicates that the
proposed SRO4 project site lies within seismic zone 1.
5.9. Meteorological Conditions
Temperature
Over the course of a year, the temperature typically varies from 23°C to 32°C and is rarely
below 20°C or above 39°C.
________________________________________________________________________________________________ 140
Figure 5.8: Average Monthly Temperature of the site

The monthly average low (green) and high (orange) temperature are shown in the below figure
Figure 5.9: Monthly average low and high temperature of the site
________________________________________________________________________________________________ 141
The warm season lasts from April to October with an average daily high temperature above
34°C. The hottest month of the year is July, with an average high of 39°C and low of 25°C.
The cold season lasts from November to March with an average daily high temperature below
30°C. The coldest month of the year is January, with an average temperature of 19°C and high
of 28°C.
Winds
The primary source of wind data used in this study is a time history of weather observations
taken at Jeddah Airport. Statistics based on observations taken between 06/2009 - 10/2017 daily
from 7am to 7pm local time.
The dominant wind direction is from North West throughout the year
Figure 5.10: Monthly average wind speed and direction (1999--2017)
Figure 5.11: Yearly wind direction distribution
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Because of proximity of the site to the coast there are high wind speeds blowing from North
west to south east and the atmosphere is almost unstable which helps in mixing of the emissions.
Steady, hourly averaged winds have been extracted from NOAA’s CFSR model for 1979-2009.
This resulted in the following wind rose and table.
Figure 5.12: Offshore wind rose

Source: NOAA CFSR model 20.33°N, 39.33°E (1979-2009)
Table 5.5: Offshore wind climate, Wind speed vs Direction (position: 20.33°N, 39.33°E)
WS1 WS2 Wind Direction ( ° N)
(m/s) (m/s)
-22.5 22.5 67.5 112.5 157.5 202.5 247.5 292.5
from to P (WS>WS1) 22.5 67.5 112.5 157.5 202.5 247.5 292.5 337.5
0.0 1.0 100.0 % 225 244 248 208 180 150 153 205
1.0 2.0 98.4 % 1112 1127 1077 787 528 389 485 782
2.0 3.0 92.1 % 2446 2183 1928 1401 790 848 983 1434
3.0 4.0 80.1 % 3713 1775 1699 1611 1174 1253 1622 2318
4.0 5.0 64.9 % 4225 424 744 1763 1458 1029 1708 3151
5.0 6.0 50.4 % 4155 65 242 1711 1287 450 1472 3942
6.0 7.0 37.1 % 3999 10 63 1230 895 147 994 4048
7.0 8.0 25.7 % 3577 4 26 937 437 61 532 3867
8.0 9.0 16.3 % 2891 6 11 631 219 20 181 3026
9.0 10.0 9.3 % 2008 1 1 439 93 8 39 2073
10.0 11.0 4.6 % 1086 1 6 238 30 4 10 1321
11.0 12.0 1.9 % 482 1 1 118 6 672
12.0 13.0 0.6 % 171 46 2 1 256
13.0 14.0 0.2 % 38 1 21 73
14.0 15.0 0.0 % 19 3 12
15.0 16.0 0.0 % 1
Percentage Occurrence 30.1 % 5.8 % 6.0 % 11.1 % 7.1 % 4.4 % 8.2 % 27.2
%
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-Data in parts per hundred thousand NOAA CFSR model 20.33°N, 39.33°E (1979-2009)
Extreme wind analysis
Peaks in wind speed were extracted from the NOAA’s CFSR model for 1979-2009 data using
the Peak Over Threshold method (POT) and fitted to a Wei-bull distribution with an L-Moments
approach method. Table 5.6 shows the directional extreme wind conditions.
Table 5.6: Derived offshore extreme wind conditions. NOAA CFSR model 20.33°N, 39.33°E
(1979-2009)
Return Period (years) WS (m/s) Dir (N)
1 11.66 135
1 10.03 180
1 7.23 225
1 9.14 270
1 13.32 315
10 13.85 135
10 11.68 180
10 10.08 225
10 10.40 270
10 14.53 315
50 15.21 135
50 12.69 180
50 12.47 225
50 11.24 270
50 15.25 315
100 15.76 135
100 13.10 180
100 13.55 225
100 11.60 270
100 15.55 315
200 16.31 135
200 13.50 180
200 14.65 225
200 11.95 270
200 15.84 315
Datums and tidal levels
Datums
Previous studies at Shoaiba referenced levels to a tide staff that was installed at Shoaiba in
March 1980. This datum is referred to as TSS. The Mean Sea Level (MSL) is at a level of
+2.35m TSS.
Bathymetry on Admiralty Charts is surveyed to UK Admiralty Chart Datum (CD), given in the
Admiralty Tide tables as 0.5m below MSL.
Saudi Aramco Vertical Datum (SAVD) is the datum used for the local survey. For which SAVD
has been advised to be ~1.8m above TSS although HR Wallingford has no first-hand or other
third party verification of the relation between SAVD and TSS or CD at the site.
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The Datums can be summarised in Table 5.7 below

Table 5.7: Datums
Tidal Level Level (m TSS) Level (m MSL)
MSL Mean Sea Level +2.35 0.00
CD Admiralty Chart +1.85 -0.50
Datum
SAVD Saudi Aramco +1.80 -0.55
Vertical Datum
TSS Tide Staff Shoaiba 0.00 -2.35
Tidal levels
Typically the tidal range in the Red Sea is small and seasonal water level fluctuations are often
more significant than the semi-diurnal tidal rise and fall. Saudi Aramco has measured sea level
at Jeddah (the nearest port) intermittently since 1992: the mean spring tidal range is about 0.2m,
but the seasonal variation in mean water level is about 0.5m. UK Admiralty tide tables for 2017
give tidal levels for Jeddah relative to Chart Datum to a resolution of 0.1m as quoted in Table
5.7, and monthly variations in mean sea level to a resolution of 0.1m as quoted in Table 5.8
Table 5.8: Present-day tidal levels for Jeddah

Tidal Level Level Level Level
(m TSS) (m CD Jeddah) (m SAVD)
HAT Highest +2.65 +0.8 +0.85
Astronomical
Tide
MHWS Mean High +2.45 +0.6 +0.65
Water Springs
MSL Mean Sea Level +2.35 +0.5 +0.55
MLWS Mean Low +2.25 +0.4 +0.45
Water Springs
LAT Lowest +2.00 +0.15 +0.20
Astronomical
Tide
Source: UK Admiralty tide tables for 2017 (Lowest Astronomical Tide (LAT) is not given in
UK tide tables); the conversion to SAVD is based on an advised relationship [HR Wallingford
has no first-hand or other third party verification of the relation between SAVD and TSS or CD
at the site]
Offshore wind &Waves

Offshore wind and wave conditions were obtained from a 30 year hind-cast of winds from the
National Center for Environmental Prediction (NCEP), a division of the National Oceanographic
and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).
________________________________________________________________________________________________ 145
In order to provide the most representative wind and wave conditions for use as input to the
local SWAN wave model, NOAA’s CFSR hind-cast model data were compared with wave buoy
measurements offshore of Jeddah and adjusted by comparing with long-term satellite
measurements.
Buoy data are available for comparison with the CFSR hind-cast model for a 14-month period
where both data sets overlap. The hind-cast model largely reproduces the observed wave heights
at the buoy. However for events with the highest observed wave heights, the CFSR hind-cast
model consistently under-predicts wave heights.
In order to adjust the CFSR model data for these events, a long-term satellite altimeter
measurement database (1985 – 2010), compiled as part of the GlobWave project, has been used
to adjust the hind-cast model when wave heights are higher than 2.7m. The resulting marked-up
CFSR data set has been compared with the buoy data set and shows reasonable agreement with
the buoy measured data (Figure 5.13). Therefore the CFSR model, marked up with the same
adjustment in this area, will provide a good source of boundary conditions for the local SWAN
model.
Figure 5.13: Comparison in significant wave height between buoy measurements and marked
up CISR data set
Offshore Waves
The offshore wave climate is dominated by ocean swell, and has been analyzed in deep water
offshore of the site at 20.33°N, 39.33°E, based on the 30 year hind cast dataset covering 1979-
2009 from the United States National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA’s)
Climate Forecast System Reanalysis (CFSR) model. The climate is shown in terms of significant
wave height against direction in Table 2.1 and as a wave rose in Figure 2.2. 75.6% of the time,
swell approaches from between 292.5°N and 337.5°N offshore which includes the highest waves
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(with significant wave heights between up to 3.4 m). The secondary wave direction is S and
represents 17.5% of waves with significant wave heights up to 2.8 m.
Figure 5.14: Offshore Wave rose

Table 5.9A: Offshore wave climate, Hs vs Direction (position: 20.33°N, 39.33°E)
Hs1 (m) Hs2 Wave Direction ( ° N)

(m)
-22.5 22.5 67.5 112.5 157.5 202.5 247.5 292.5
from to P(Hs>Hs1) Calms 22.5 67.5 112.5 157.5 202.5 247.5 292.5 337.5
0.0 0.0 100.0 % 0.0
0.0 0.2 100.0 % 14 10 6 42 161 45 29 379
0.2 0.4 99.3 % 19 7 8 453 2099 671 482 6614
0.4 0.6 89.0 % 6 3 3 429 4604 935 698 13466
0.6 0.8 68.8 % 8 1 1 199 4248 741 489 13913
0.8 1.0 49.2 % 7 2 98 2976 469 287 12931
1.0 1.2 32.4 % 38 1610 279 121 10500
1.2 1.4 19.9 % 1 12 884 121 43 7079
1.4 1.6 11.8 % 4 444 61 28 4531
1.6 1.8 6.7 % 2 242 32 12 3013
1.8 2.0 3.4 % 118 9 1 1667
2.0 2.2 1.6 % 59 8 853
2.2 2.4 0.7 % 24 1 423
2.4 2.6 0.2 % 3 1 123
2.6 2.8 0.1 % 2 31
2.8 3.0 0.1 % 2 25
3.0 3.2 0.0 % 25
3.2 3.4 0.0 % 10
3.4 3.6 0.0 % 3
3.6 3.8 0.0 % 2
Percentage Occurrence 0.0 % 0.1 % 0.0 % 0.0 % 1.3 % 17.5 % 3.4 % 2.2 % 75.6 %
Note: Data in parts per hundred thousand
Source: NOAA CFSR model 20.33°N, 39.33°E (1979-2009)
________________________________________________________________________________________________ 147
Extreme Offshore Waves

Peaks in wave height were extracted from the offshore wave time series using the Peaks Over
Threshold method (POT) and fitted to a Weibull distribution with an L-Moments approach
method. Table 5.9 shows the directional offshore extreme wave conditions.
Table 5.9B: Derived offshore extreme wave conditions. NOAA CFSR model 20.33°N, 39.33°E
(1979-2009)
Return Period Hs (m) Tp (s) Dir (N)
(years)
1 0.93 5.75 135
1 1.83 8.06 180
1 1.42 7.12 225
1 1.35 6.93 270
1 2.66 9.74 315
10 1.39 7.05 135
10 2.43 9.30 180
10 2.08 8.61 225
10 1.74 7.88 270
10 3.32 10.87 315
50 1.73 7.86 135
50 2.90 10.16 180
50 2.53 9.49 225
50 1.89 8.20 270
50 3.76 11.57 315
100 1.88 8.19 135
100 3.12 10.54 180
100 2.72 9.85 225
100 1.94 8.32 270
100 3.94 11.85 315
200 2.04 8.52 135
200 3.35 10.92 180
200 2.91 10.18 225
200 2.00 8.43 270
200 4.13 12.12 315
5.10. Bathymetry
A detailed bathymetric survey has been carried out in the project area by RGF. The survey area
boundary was provided by the client and its marked on the Figure-2. Points SB
01 & SP 02 are the seawards limits and extreme boundary of the survey area
The Survey Area has been bounded by the following coordinates. The survey area block was
developed bounded by the coordinates as mentioned in the SOW. Line planning was carried out
in the Line Manager module of the survey software and the survey lines were generated
accordingly. The distance between the lines remains 20 meters as per the SOW. Cross lines were
________________________________________________________________________________________________ 148
undertaken. Survey Boat follows the survey lines and as such there is no deviation from the
intended track.
Table 5.10: Bathymetric survey boundary points
Point No Easting Northing
SB 01 552414.808 2287623.52
SP 02 552765.118 2287075.996
SP03 553607.464 2287614.933
SP04 553558.226 2287658.265
SP05 553518.873 2287675.151
SP06 553436.413 2287731.957
SP07 553374.237 2287812.305
SP08 553229.295 2287873.43
SP09 553010.642 2288004.738
Figure 5.15: Bathymetric survey area
________________________________________________________________________________________________ 149
Figure 5.16: Bathymetric Survey map
Brief Bathymetry details of survey area are given below:

The drawing of the area presents the complete depth pattern and shall be referred for
soundings.
• Survey area in west is composed of irregular gradient, reefs, shallow patches, shoal
depths and protruding edges.
• Depths are very shallow and less than 1 meters towards the shore line. Least depth noted
is 0.4 up to shoreline and spots as shallow as 0.2 meter are present in the area.
• At least 2 reefs are present in the area as describe in above section. These have been
surrounded by deep waters in the East. There is an outlet at the smaller reef however the
main reef closes the east and west part of the survey area. West portion of the survey
area was approached from other directions.
________________________________________________________________________________________________ 150
• Area west of main reef, the gradient is comparatively smooth and depths are increasing
sharply. Towards end of survey boundary the depths remain in excess of 55 and deeper
depths of 65-70 are present in the south west area/corner of survey boundary.
• North West of main reef the area is very shallower and soundings are less than 1 meter.
Detailed survey report has been attached in volume II submittals
5.11. Water Quality
Environmental Balance Establishment conducted detailed water quality investigation. Water

samples collected from four locations and analysed from GAMEP approved laboratory. The
results are tabulated as shown below. Detailed report from laboratory is presented in the volume
II submittals
Table 5.11A: Sea water Quality baseline results at the site

CAS LO
Analyte grouping/Analyte Number Unit R S4W1 S4W2 S4W3 S4W4
23-08- 20-08- 23-08- 23-08-
Date 17 17 17 17
AGGREGATE ORGANIC
PARAMETERS
Biochemical Oxygen Demand mg/L 2 <2 <2 <2 <2
Chemical Oxygen Demand mg/L 5 65 74 64 70
Oil and Grease mg/L 5 <5 <5 <5 <5
Total Organic Carbon mg/L 1 <5 <5 <5 <5
BIOLOGICAL PARAMETERS
mg/m
5 <5 <5 <5 <5
Chlorophyll a ³
MAJOR CATIONS & ANIONS -
TOTAL
Calcium 7440-70-2 mg/L 1 480 501 492 501
Magnesium 7439-95-4 mg/L 1 1470 1530 1510 1540
Potassium 7440-09-7 mg/L 1 725 764 745 754
Sodium 7440-23-5 mg/L 1 13400 13900 13900 14000

14808-79-
1 3340 3460 3410 3500
Sulfate as SO4 2- 8 mg/L
MICROBIOLOGICAL
PARAMETERS
CFU/
1 11 116 17 24
Heterotropic Plate Count (37°C) mL
INORGANIC NONMETALLIC
PARAMETERS
________________________________________________________________________________________________ 151
14798-03- 0.0
0.07 0.08 0.06 0.06
Ammonium as N 9_N mg/L 1
24959-67-
0.5 821 761 844 819
Bromide 9 mg/L
16887-00-
1 23900 23900 23800 23900
Chloride 6 mg/L
16984-48-
0.1 0.7 0.7 0.8 0.7
Fluoride 8 mg/L
Silica 7631-86-9 mg/L 0.1 <0.5 <0.5 <0.5 <0.5

18496-25-
0.1 <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 <0.1
Sulfide as S2- 8 mg/L
METALS - TOTAL
Barium 7440-39-3 mg/L 0.1 <1.1 <1.1 <1.1 <1.1
Boron 7440-42-8 mg/L 0.1 5.9 6.2 6.1 6.2

0.0
<0.11 <0.11 <0.11 <0.11
Copper 7440-50-8 mg/L 1
0.0
<0.54 <0.54 <0.54 <0.54
Iron 7439-89-6 mg/L 5
0.0
<0.11 <0.11 <0.11 <0.11
Manganese 7439-96-5 mg/L 1
0.0
8.95 9.41 9.18 9.38
Strontium 7440-24-6 mg/L 1
NUTRIENTS
14797-55- 0.0
0.03 0.02 <0.01 <0.01
Nitrate as N 8 mg/L 1
PHYSICAL PARAMETERS
Bicarbonate Alkalinity as CaCO3 71-52-3 mg/L 1 117 138 134 134
Carbonate Alkalinity as CaCO3 3812-32-6 mg/L 1 <1 <1 <1 <1

µS/c
1 70100 71200 70100 69900
Electrical Conductivity @ 25°C m
Temperature °C 0.5 24.0 32.0 25.0 25.0
Total Alkalinity as CaCO3 mg/L 1 117 138 134 134
Total Dissolved Solids @180°C mg/L 5 45200 46200 46100 45900
Total Hardness as CaCO3 mg/L 1 7250 7380 7390 7540
Total Suspended Solids mg/L 5 <5 <5 7 <5
Turbidity NTU 0.1 0.2 0.2 0.4 0.9

pH 0.0
7.98 8.08 8.18 8.18
pH Value Unit 1
85540-96-
1 103 121 118 118
Total Carbon Dioxide as CO2 1 mg/L
Water quality analysis locations were selected randomly in order to obtain the baseline of the
area. The locations are as follows
________________________________________________________________________________________________ 152
Figure 5.17: Water sampling Locations
5.12. Sediment Quality
In order to identify the quality of sediments, EBE has collected two sediment samples and
analysed for various parameters. This will behave as the base line of the sediment quality.
Sediments were collected using grabs and transferred to special bottles. In order to avoid any
contamination, the samples are kept in cool boxes and transported to GAMEP approved
laboratory for analysis. The results are tabulated below and the detailed analysis report is
presented in volume II submittals
Table 5.11B: Sea Sediment quality Results at the site

CAS LO
Analyte grouping/Analyte Unit S4S1 S4S2
Number R
14-09- 14-09-
Date
17 17
METALS - TOTAL
Arsenic 7440-38-2 mg/kg 5 <5 <5

Cadmium 7440-43-9 mg/kg 1 <1 <1
Copper 7440-50-8 mg/kg 5 <5 <5
Lead 7439-92-1 mg/kg 5 <5 <5
Mercury 7439-97-6 mg/kg 0.1 <0.1 <0.1
MICROBIOLOGICAL PARAMETERS
MPN/
Faecal Coliforms 2 <2 <2
g
________________________________________________________________________________________________ 153
PHYSICAL PARAMETERS
Moisture Content (dried @ 103°C) % 1.0 23.5 26.6
TOTAL PETROLEUM HYDROCARBON (TPH)
C6 - C9 Fraction mg/kg 10 <10 <10

C15 - C28 Fraction mg/kg 100 <100 <100
C29 - C36 Fraction mg/kg 100 <100 <100
C10 - C40 Fraction (sum) mg/kg 100 <100 <100
VOLATILE ORGANIC COMPOUNDS -
SURROGATES
1.2-Dichloroethane-D4 17060-07-0 % 0.2 92.6 94.6
Toluene-D8 2037-26-5 % 0.2 95.4 93.5
4-Bromofluorobenzene 460-00-4 % 0.2 93.3 93.3
The locations of the sampling are as shown in the below figure
Figure 5.18: Sediment Quality measurement location
5.13. Numerical Modelling
5.13.1. Model description
DHI Water & Environment, Denmark (DHI, 2012) has developed the MIKE 3 FM, a three
dimensional Flow Model. MIKE 3 HD (Hydrodynamic) is the basic module of the MIKE 3 FM,
________________________________________________________________________________________________ 154
which simulates the tidal and wind-driven circulations in the coastal and offshore regions. The
HD model is based on the numerical solution of the three-dimensional incompressible Reynolds
averaged Navier-Stokes equations invoking the assumptions of Boussinesque and hydrostatic
pressure. Thus, the model consists of continuity, momentum, temperature, salinity and density
equations, and is closed by a turbulent closure scheme. In the horizontal domain both Cartesian
and spherical coordinates can be used. The free surface is taken into account using a sigma-
coordinate transformation approach.
The spatial discretization of the primitive equations is performed using a cell-centered finite
volume method. The spatial domain is discretized by subdivision of the continuum into non-
overlapping element/cells. In the horizontal plane an unstructured grid is used while in the
vertical domain a structured discretization is used. An approximative Riemann solver is used for
computation of the convective fluxes, which makes it possible to handle discontinuous solutions.
For the time integration a semi-implicit approach is used where the horizontal terms are treated
explicitly and the vertical terms are treated implicitly.
5.13.2. Domain and bathymetry
Figure 5.19 shows the domain and bathymetry used for the model simulations. Figure 5.20
shows the flexible mesh in the model domain. The model domain covers approx. 11.6 km in
north-south axis (latitude) and 9.3 km in the east-west axis (longitude). The resolution of the
flexible mesh varies from 300 m (offshore) to 30 m (along the coast). The water depths data
obtained from GEBCO and Chartswere interpolated to each mesh elements. The vertical datum
used is Mean Sea Level (MSL), which is 0.5 m above Chart Datum (CD) at Shoaiba (Admiralty
Tide Table, 2002). Since the model takes the depths as negative, the bathymetry shown here are
with negative values (For e.g., 10 m water depth indicate as “-10 m” in the bathymetry). There
are three open boundaries; namely north, west and south. The land boundary is at the east, which
is the coastline of Shoaiba. Six vertical layers (surface to bottom) are considered for the
simulations.
The intake locations are marked as i1, i2, i3 and i4, respectively for Shoaiba 1, 2, 3 and 4 DPs.
The outfall locations are marked as o1(same for o2), o3 and o4, respectively for Shoiba 1&2, 3
and 4. Out of these the numbers 1 to 3 indicates the existing DPs and the number 4 indicate the
proposed DP.
________________________________________________________________________________________________ 155
Figure 5.19: Model domain and bathymetry
Figure 5.20: Flexible mesh in the model domain
________________________________________________________________________________________________ 156
5.13.3. Boundary and input conditions
Both tides and winds are contributing to the hydrodynamics in the central and northern Red Sea,
especially in the study region. Hence the model simulations have been carried out by forcing the
open boundaries with tidal elevations and the surface boundary by forcing with the CFSR wind
velocities. The tidal elevations at the open boundaries were derived from RHM (Red Sea
Hydrodynamic model) which were validated against the tides in the Red Sea at few stations. For
instance, Figure 5.21 shows the comparison between Admiralty tidal elevations (calculated
using tidal harmonics at Jeddah) and modelled tidal elevations at Jeddah. Various tidal levels at
Shoaiba are given in Table 5.12, as evident from the Admiralty Tide Table, which takes in to
account of the long-term variations. The levels are in meters w.r.t. CD. The Mean Highest High
Water (MHHW) and the Mean Lowest Low Water (MLLW) are 0.6 m and 0.4 m above CD,
respectively. It means the average tidal elevation during spring tide is 0.2 m.
Figure 5.21: Comparison between predicted (using harmonic constituents) and modelled
surface elevations at Jeddah.
Table 5.12: Various tidal levels (above CD) at Shoaiba
Tidal station MHHW MLLW MSL
Shoaiba 0.6 0.4 0.5
The hourly wind data is obtained from CFSR, which is available for every 0.31° ×0.31° spatial
resolution (Saha et al, 2010). Monthly averages have been calculated for every hour to obtain
the diurnal variations in the wind speed and direction. The diurnal wind data during summer (Jul
2013) and winter (Jan 2014) were applied in the simulations. Figure 5shows hourly averaged
CFSR daily wind speed and wind direction at Shoaiba during summer and winter. In summer,
the wind speed goes up to 8.5 m/s. The maximum wind speed is during the noon hours (around
12 PM). The major wind directions are between WNWand NNW (285° - 340°). In winter, the
wind speeds are smaller due to the wind convergence in the central Red Sea. The wind speed
________________________________________________________________________________________________ 157
reaches up to 3.2 m/s and the shifts from N/NE (night time) to S/SW (day time) due to the sea
breeze –land breeze systems, respectively.
Figure 5.22: Daily averaged wind speed and direction during summer and winter.
5.13.4. Coastal Circulations in front of Shoaiba
The hydrodynamic circulations in the study region have been simulated considering two seasons
– summer and winter. The circulation in this region is influenced by the wind and tides. The
results are analsyed and discussed in this chapter.
5.13.4.1. Circulations during summer
Figure 5.23 shows the surface current patterns (Flood and Ebb currents) along the Shoaiba coast
during Spring tide. The flood currents here are generally towards the SE. The SE directions are
mainly due to the influence of NW winds. The NW winds enhance the flood currents. The
current speed reaches up to 0.18 m/s. The current speeds are relatively stronger close to the
coast, because the land boundary effects. In addition, the DP discharges enhance the current
speeds close to the outfalls.
________________________________________________________________________________________________ 158
The ebb currents in the study region are very weak as the weak tidal current opposes the weak
winds. Hence, there is no clear dominance of tidal or wind-generated currents in this region
during ebb. During ebb, the currents are generally below 0.08 m/s.
Considering the flood and ebb currents, the net transport is towards the SE. This indicates that
currents in this region during summer are dominated by NW winds.
Figure 5.23: Snapshot of Flood and Ebb currents during summer

Figure 5.27 shows the time series current speeds at the proposed outfall location (o4) during
summer. The current speeds fluctuate diurnally due to the diurnal variations in the wind speed as
well as in the tidal cycles. The fluctuations are more or less the same throughout the neap-
spring-neap cycle, which indicates that the currents are dominated by winds. The surface current
speed varies between 0.01 and 0.08 m/s, while the bottom current speed varies between 0.01 and
0.06 m/s.
Figure 5.27: Time series of surface and bottom current speedsat the proposed outfall
location(o4) during summer.
________________________________________________________________________________________________ 159
5.13.4.2. Circulations during winter
Figure 5.28 shows the surface current patterns (Flood and Ebb currents) along the Shoaiba coast
during Spring tide. Both the tidal and wind-induced currents are weaker in this region during
winter. The lower current speeds during winter is due to the low wind speeds occurred due to the
atmospheric convergance in the central Red Sea. The relatively stronger flows very close to the
coast are due to the outfall discharge magnitudes. The flood currents here are towards the E or
SE, while the ebb currents are towards N or NW. The current speeds close to the outfalls are up
to 0.09 m/s, while they are less than 0.04 m/s away from the coast. The net transport is towards
north, due to relatively stronger flow in this direction.
Figure 5.28: Snapshot of Flood and Ebb currents during winter

Figure 5.29 shows the time series current speeds at the proposed outfall location (o4) during
winter. The current speeds are very weak, although neap-spring-neap cycles are evident. There
is no significant difference between the surface and bottom currents in this location.
Figure 5.29: Time series of surface and bottom current speeds at the proposed outfall location
(o4) during winter.
________________________________________________________________________________________________ 160
5.13.5. Thermal and Brine Plume Dispersions
The changes in temperature and salinity along the Shoaiba coast due to the brine discharge from
the DPs have been analysed during summer and winter. Based on the available plant
information, two scenarios have been simulated: (i) existing conditions with three DPs (Shoaiba
1, 2 and 3) and (ii) proposed conditions with all the four DPs (Shoaiba 1, 2, 3 and 4). As an
indicator of impat assessment, the temperature and salinity at the intake locations (i1, i2, i3 and
i4) have been extracted and compared. The results are discussed in the following sections.
5.13.5.1. Temperature
Summer
Figure 5.30 shows the mean surface and bottom temperatures along the Shoaiba coast for the
exisiting and proposed conditions during summer. There is no significant increase in temperature
with the outfalls of the proposed DP (Shoaiba 4) compared to the existing conditions.
Figure 5.30: Mean surface and bottom temperature for the existing and proposed conditions
during summer.
Table 5.13 shows the variations in temperature at all the intake locations (i1 to i4) during
summer. The temperature increase due to the proposed DP (Shoaiba 4) is very low (up to 0.02°
C). Hence there is no impact of temperature during summer due to the Shoaiba 4 DP.
________________________________________________________________________________________________ 161
Table 5.13: Variations of temperature at intake locations during summer
Temperature (°C)
Intake Values derived from Existing conditions Proposed conditions Differences

locations Table 1 simulated (E) simulated (P) (P-E)
i1 33 32.78 32.79 0.01
i2 33 32.90 32.92 0.02
i3 32-35 33.57 33.59 0.02
i4 32-35 32.39 32.39 0.00
Winter
Figure 5.31 shows the mean surface and bottom temperatures along the Shoaiba coast for the
exisiting and proposed conditions during winter. There is no significant increase in temperature
with the outfalls of the proposed DP (Shoaiba 4) compared to the existing conditions.
Table 5.14 shows the variations in temperature at all the intake locations (i1 to i4) during winter.
The temperature increase due to the proposed DP (Shoaiba 4) discharge is almost negligible.
Hence there is no impact of temperature during winter due to the Shoaiba 4 DP.
In general, there is no impact of temperature due to Shoaiba 4 DP discharge throughout the year.
The primary reason for negligible difference in temperature is due to the RO plant which
discharges the brine with ambient temperature.
Figure 5.31: Mean surface and bottom temperature for the existing and proposed conditions
during winter.
________________________________________________________________________________________________ 162
Table 5.14: Variations of temperature at intake locations during winter
Temperature (°C)

i1 17-28 27.66 27.66 0.00
i2 23-28 26.24 26.24 0.00
i3 25-28 25.74 25.75 0.01
i4 25-28 26.84 26.85 0.01
5.13.5.2. Salinity
Summer
Figure 5.32 shows the mean surface and bottom salinity along the Shoaiba coast for the existing
and proposed conditions during summer. There is a limited increase of salinity in the vicinity of
the Shoaiba 4 outfall compared to the existing conditions. The overall increase away from the
outfall is less than 1 PSU, which is within the reasonable limits of exceedance.
Figure 5.32: Mean surface and bottom salinity for the existing and proposed conditions
during summer.
________________________________________________________________________________________________ 163
Table 5.15 shows the variations in salinity at all the intake locations (i1 to i4) during summer.
The salinity increase due to the proposed DP (Shoaiba 4) dishcharge is up to 0.55 PSU at the
intake locations i1, i2 and i3. These intake locations are at the south of the Shoiba 4 DP outfall,
hence the southward net transport during summer enables the increase in salinity at these
locations. Since the intake i4 of the Shoaiba 4 DP is at the north of the outfall o4, the impact of
brine towards this location is almost negligible during summer, as obtained in Table 5.15.
Table 5.15: Variations of salinity at intake locations during summer
Salinity (PSU)
Intake
Existing Proposed
locations Values derived from Differences
conditions conditions
Table 1 (P-E)
simulated (E) simulated (P)
i1 39.8 40.60 41.04 0.44
i2 40.5 40.77 41.27 0.50
i3 37-44 41.56 42.11 0.55
i4 43.5 40.24 40.25 0.01
Winter
Figure 5.33 shows the mean surface and bottom salinity along the Shoaiba coast for the exisiting
and proposed conditions during winter. The increase in salinity is higher in the vicinity of the
Shoaiba 4 outfall, especially towards the offshore and northern parts. Although the wind-
genrated currents and tides are small during winter, the net transport is towards NW. Compared
to the summer, the advection-dispersion processes are slower during winter, hence, most of the
brine are dispersed within arelatively short distance of the outfall.The impact of Shoaiba 4
outfall discharge towards south is very low.
Table 5.16 shows the variations in salinity at all the intake locations (i1 to i4) during winter. The
highest increase of salinity due to the proposed DP (Shoaiba 4) dishcharge is up to 0.90 PSU,
which is at the corresponding intake i4. This increase is notable, although not very high. Since
the DP is working under RO, this increase may be within the acceptable limits of the intake
capacity. The increase in salinity at the other intakes i1, i2 and i3 are very low, hence no impact
at these locations due to Shoaiba 4 DP disahcrge.
________________________________________________________________________________________________ 164
Figure 5.33: Mean surface and bottom salinity for the existing and proposed conditions
during winter.
Table 5.16: Variations of salinity at intake locations during winter
Salinity (PSU)

i1 39.8 41.81 41.85 0.04
i2 40.5 41.19 41.26 0.07
i3 37-44 41.03 41.15 0.12
i4 43.5 43.53 44.43 0.90
________________________________________________________________________________________________ 165
5.13.6. Summary and conclusions
Hydrodynamic modelling was carried out along the Shoaiba coast for the proposed DP to study
the circulation characteristics during summer and winter. The study reveals that the current
speeds are moderate during summer and low during winter. The net transport during summer is
towards south, while the net transport during winter is towards northwest.
The dispersion modelling was carried out along the Shoaiba coast considering the hydrodynamic
conditions and the intake & outfall specifications. The impact of temperature due to the Shoaiba
4 outfall discharge is almost negligible during summer and winter. There are few limited
impacts of salinity in the vicinity of the proposed DP due to the Shoaiba 4 outfall discharge,
summarized as follows:
• Due to the net southwards flow during summer, the dispersed salinity concentration
slightly increased (up to 0.55 PSU) at the existing intake locations i1, i2 and i3.
However, there is no significant increase of salinity at the proposed intake i4 (Shoaiba 4)
due to the discharge. This is favourable for the operation of the Shoiaba 4 DP during
summer.
• Due to the net northwest flow and low current speeds during winter, the dispersion of
salinity is relatively weak. Hence, there is a slight increase of salinity up to 0.90 PSU at
the proposed intake location (i4) due to the Shoaiba 4 outfall discharge. Considering the
efficiency of the RO plant, this increase will be within the acceptable limits of tolerance.
There is no significant impact at the other intakes (i1, i2 and i3) during winter.
5.14. Marine Ecology
5.14.1. Introduction
There are physical properties that affect the distribution of plants and animals in the Red Sea,
which is the movement of waves and sea currents. The degree of movement of the waves
determines the type of nature of the bottom in the coast, whether sandy, mud, or rock. Marine
currents also affect the distribution of Plankton and the spread of many invertebrates and fish;
the movement of waves and ocean currents is also affected by wind.
Previous studies in the marine environment of the Red Sea have shown that there are 266
species of coral recorded along the coast of Saudi Arabia with the largest diversity in the central
part of the coast of the Kingdom. Five areas along the Kingdom's coast have been noted for the
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density of live coral reefs: Tiran Island, Alwajh, North Yanbu, and Coastal Line between Abhor
and Thul, north of Jeddah, and the Outer of Fursan.
Given the importance of coral reefs as a unique ecosystem in the tropics in general and in the
Red Sea in particular, scientific institutions and organizations interested in coral reefs conduct
periodic surveys to identify their current status and the human and natural impacts that affect
them.
Coral reefs are the marine wealth that the Red Sea has been famous for since its ideal conditions
for its growth. The most important of these are its water quality, the existence of shallow areas
near the beaches and the lack of access to river water or continental deposits that can affect its
water. The economic value of coral lies in its existence as a unique and complex ecosystem and
ecosystem that plays an important role in the coastal ecosystem, providing habitat for a wide
variety of marine species as well as protecting coastal lands from erosion and storm damage.
Coral reefs are also critical and important habitats because they have a high initial productivity
(for plant material) that support the life of other living organisms within or in adjacent areas;
because they are biologically diverse (supporting different species of plants and animals); and
because they are a source of food, breeding, Economic or scientific importance, as well as its
protection of the coastline.
Although coral reefs along the coast of Saudi Arabia are generally in good condition, they have
been severely damaged by landfill and dredging resulting from coastal development, or when
these reefs are close to densely populated cities such as Jeddah and industrial such as Yanbu
Dredging or access to domestic and industrial wastewater, affecting coral reefs. Desalination
plants and electricity plants along with coastal development works may adversely affect the
marine environment and, in particular, the coral reef environment.
5.14.2. Field survey Methodology.
The marine environment in the project was studied by dividing the area into four transverse
lines, as shown in Figure 5.34, through which the area is studied to provide an adequate picture
of the marine life in the area and the level of damage it may cause due to the project.
Along these four lines, the rapid assessment technique was adopted. It should be noted that the
rapid assessment technique, developed to conduct a comprehensive survey of the Red Sea and
its natural systems
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In the 1980s, it was used to assess the marine environment around the Shoaiba desalination
plant. This technique allows the examination of different resources and the associated effects at
the same time.
Figure 5.34: A picture showing how to divide the area of the study
This methodology was originally developed for the Red Sea (Dawson Shepherd & Ormond,
1987; Price et al., 1988, 1998) It was later used in other parts of the Arab region (Price et al.,
1987b; Price 1990; Price & Coles, 1992; Price et al., 1993, 1994; Wilson et al., 2003). Rapid
study sites provide information on habitats in the study area and species in the same habitat.
The marine environment in this region was studied by swimming and direct observation using
water glasses and fins and using digital cameras to depict the existing marine habitats in the
area, composed of marine algae, marine grasses and coral reefs as major marine systems with
associated habitats.
5.14.3. Results
5.14.3.1. Shore Line.
The shoreline is characterized by soft sand with low basaltic rocks, some high, and also a narrow
tidal area, as shown in figure 5.35 below.
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Figure 5.35: The shoreline of the project site is its soft sand and basalt rocks
The shoreline recognize as clear features such as beach algae, the dark color of sediments close
to the shore, and the acidic smell of sulfur sulphide at the shoreline (Figure5.36). All this
indicates that coastal waters do not mix with open sea water and may be affected with sewage
water.
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Figure 5.36: shows the shoreline, algae and dark color of shore sediments
Transect (1)
In the transect (1) there is a strip from the sand bottom followed by another strip of sea-weed
mixed with stringy green algae, whose area exceeds the surface of the seaweed as we move west
along the longitudinal line (1) as shown in Fig(5.37). It should be noted that the green algae
sprout along the area near the shore and increase its density as we head to south.
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Figure 5.37: Diffusion of sparse marine grass and increased growth of green algae
At a depth of 60 centimeters, the dead corals appear to be more black just like coal for dead
reefs (which are always coated with brown algae), as shown in Figure 8 below.
Despite the completely dead coral colonies (whether solid or remnant colonies accumulated on
the bottom), a number of fish were recorded in the gaps between the dead coral. These fish
include white black stripes on the tail area (Acanthurus nigricans), (Acanthurus
sohal),(Zebrasoma veliferum) and Abudefduf saxatilis.
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Figure 5.38: Dead coral colonies and fish found among coral reefs.
Transect (2).
Turning from transect (1) to transect (2) within the sea shows the strong similarity between the
two transect lines. There is no reef edge with live coral reefs and associated fish, crustaceans and
molluscs as in the open sea, wave movement elsewhere in the Saudi coast and places not
affected by negative factors.
It is known that at the edge of ciliary reefs, the quality of water varies due to waves and
relatively strong sea currents and water regeneration due to these factors, which leads to the
bringing of mammals fed by fish and festivals alike. Therefore, we find diversity in corals and
fish associated with reefs.
Corals can be seen from hard coral such as porites and branched corals such as Acropora,
Pocillopora and Millipora dichotoma; and Chromis dimidiatus, and others. Coral reefs at the
edge of coral reefs are always relatively good for exposure to ocean currents and waves that
displace sediments.
This is the nature of the coral reefs that thrive in the center and north of the Red Sea, including
the north of Jeddah, according to surveys conducted in the 1980s by the General Authority for
Meteorology and Environmental Protection (formerly the Department of Meteorology and
Environmental Protection) and other subsequent studies On the Saudi coast of the Red Sea.
What has been seen at the project site is dead coral, a few fish and molluscs such as giant oysters
(Tridacna sp.), As shown in figure 9 below. Then the dead reef area ends to begin the area where
the green algae are mixed with marine grass. The dark color of marine grass is observed here,
which indicates that this environment is not even valid for marine grass.
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Figure 5.39: Incorporation of the environment from the sea to the Transect (2)
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Transect (3)
It appears from the marine survey that the marine environment in the project area is very similar
in terms of the spread of nematode green algae in the vicinity of the shore, competing with dark
marine grasses in situ, and then sequencing the massive solid coral colonies in place, and the
few invertebrates except one black sea option (Holothuria atra) was observed among the dead
colonies as shown in Figure (5.40).
At the edge of the reefs facing the open sea, as noted earlier, no live coral colonies were
observed, although there were a number of fish, most of which were fish, such as AlJarah fish
(Figure 5.40).
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Figure 5.40: Incorporate the marine environment along the transect line (3) from the beach
to the open sea
Transect (4)
The marine environment was surveyed along the transect (4) from the open sea to the shore. The
environment is almost different from the rest of the three shorelines, all of which start with dead
reefs on the edge and then sparse dead solid reefs as well as with some fish in the reef gaps. The
existing fish species include the Al- Jarah and some butterfly fish, as seen in Figure 5.41.
The shoreline - as in other shorelines - ends with the green algae that flatten up to the surface of
the shallow water, and then the semi-dead sea grass.
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Figure 5.41: Marine environment from the edge of the reef to the beach on the shoreline (4)
5.14.4 Conclusion
From the above it is clear that there is no reef edge that is rich in living coral reefs in the project
area and associated fish, crustaceans and molluscs as in the open sea, wave movement elsewhere
in the Saudi coast and places not affected by negative factors. The shoreline features clear
features such as beach algae, the dark color of sediments near the shore, and the acidic smell of
sulfur sulphide at the shoreline (Figure 5.36). All this indicates that coastal waters do not mix
with open sea water and may be affected by sewage. It was also observed that the green algae
sprout along the area near the shore and increase its density as we head south. Dead coral reefs
are found in a black color closer to coal than dead coral (which is always covered by brown
algae). However, a number of fish were recorded in the gaps between the dead reefs. These fish
include white black stripes on the tail area (Acanthurus nigricans), Acanthurus sohal, Zebrasoma
veliferum and Abudefduf saxatilis.
It appears from the marine survey that the marine environment in the project area is very similar
in terms of the spread of nematode green algae in the vicinity of the shore, competing with dark
marine grasses in situ, and then sequencing the massive solid coral colonies in place, and the
few invertebrates except one black sea option (Holothuria atra) was observed among the dead
colonies as shown in Figure (5.40).
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SECTION 6: ANALYSIS OF ALTERNATIVES FOR

SROP Ph IV OFF SHORE WORKS
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SECTION 6: ANALYSIS OF ALTERNATIVES FOR SROP Ph IV OFF

SHORE WORKS
6.1 Introduction
Prior to examining the impacts associated with the off shore construction works of the Shoaiba
RO Plant Phase IV Project, and as required by the Environmental and Social Impact Assessment
methodology the current chapter aims to examine possible alternative project scenarios and
demonstrate that the proposed option (assessed in detail in the Current ESIA) will undoubtedly
be the most beneficial one, both locally and internationally. Consequently, the chapter provides
an overview and analyses the outcome of the subsequent two most feasible scenarios:
1. ‘’No Action’’
2. Project Implementation Scenario.
SWCC and DHIC have conducted several studies for identifying the suitable locations for intake
and out fall locations considering, Marine Ecology, Water Quality, Marine Habitat, Sediment
quality, Numerical Modeling studies, Brine and thermal Dispersion Modeling studies, and
Hydrodynamic Modeling studies. The suitable location for installation of intake and outfall
pipelines with minimum environmental impact has been selected for the SROP Ph IV Project.
6.2 The “No Action” Alternative vs. Project Implementation

‘’The No Action’’
The main purpose of the proposed SROP Ph IV Project is to meet the fresh water demands of
Jeddah City. The National Development Plans for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia entail the
provision for water of adequate quality to meet public health standards and quantity to provide
for the total requirements of the population. Previous surveys (Abu-Rizaiza et al., 1988) have
shown that the Jeddah-Makkah-Taif area to be the most water deficit area in the Western
Region. Jeddah city is one of the seven large cities in the Kingdom.
It has the largest airport and seaport in the Kingdom as it is the major and pivot point en route to
the Holy Mosque in Makkah. The population of Jeddah has increased from 916000 capita in
1980 (Allehaibi, 1996) to 2801481 in 2004 (Central Department for Statistics and Information,
2008).
In the same period the water supply from Jeddah desalination plant increased from 56.688
million m3 per year to 142.78million m3 per year. Despite the significant increase in the
capacity of the desalination plant, the demand increased substantially due to the large
Increase of population.
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Table 6.1: Water production in thousand m3 for Jeddah desalination plant
Projected water production is predicted based on extrapolation of the present production data
using linear function as it gives the best fit. Figure.6.1 illustrates the present and future
projection of the desalinated water.
Figure 6.1: Actual and forecasted desalinated water in 1000’m3

Table 6.1 shows a steady rate of increase of water production. Starting from 1423, Al-Shoaiba
desalination plant started diverting about 85 million m3 of its production of water to Jeddah to
improve the supply and combat the shortage.
Water Demand
Water demands are classified into two categories, municipal and industrial. However, as the
industrial demands in Jeddah represent about 4% of the total demands, so it will be incorporated
within the municipal water demands (Ministry of Economy and Planning, 2008). Municipal
water demands can be decomposed into population and rate of water consumption. Population of
Jeddah city obtained from data collected from its different municipalities for the years 1980,
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1985 and 1990 (Allehaibi, 1996) were found 916000, 1076662 and 1475990 capita respectively.
It is to be noticed that these figures include the non-Saudi citizens. Further census at 1413, 1425
and 1431 were conducted. Future estimates of population can be obtained using various methods
(Steel and McGhee, 1985). However, due to the lack of lengthy data to conduct a proper
population forecast, three simple methods have been used; one that gives high rate of growth,
one that gives low rate of growth and an average between the two results to represent a moderate
case. The first method that gives a high rate of growth is the Geometrical Progression Method.
Table 6.2: Actual and forecasted future population (capita) of Jeddah city
If this project is not undertaken there will be severe demand for the fresh water supply resulting
in continuous stress on the existing Desalination plants.
6.3 Alternative 2: Technology Selection
Factors influencing selection of desalination technologies
• Financial issues
• Energy requirements
• Land requirements
• Source water characteristics
• Geographical and location constraints
• Product water requirements
• Environmental factors and waste disposal options
o Marine Ecology ,
o Water Quality ,
o Marine Habitat ,
o Sediment quality ,
o Numerical Modeling studies ,
o Brine and thermal Dispersion Modeling studies ,and
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o Hydrodynamic Modeling studies
Financial issues
The proposed R O process technology is very cost effective technology with average capital cost
of US$ 3.5 to 4.5 per installed gallon/.day and Desalinated water cost is US $ 0.7 to 1.0 per m3
Under the No Action alternative it will reduced the potential to stimulate economic growth
within the national region. . Given the growing population and economy of the Jeddah ,Makkah
and Taif cities of Saudi Arabia, it is very essential to meet the demands of water supply ..
Without the initiative of the SROP Ph IV Project, Saudi Arabia will have less capacity to supply
the required water for the cities of Jeddah ,Makkah and Taif . Therefore, it is not a “No Action”
alternative, but rather what is necessary is to implement the SROP Ph IV project.
6.4 Project Implementation

6.4.1 Saudi Arabia Vision 2030 and the domestic water supply
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is witnessing an unprecedented boom in the water supply and
logistical services. The Red Sea coast is considered the main source of Domestic water supply
through Desalinization process in the region, which gives the Kingdom a wide horizon of
opportunities and capabilities that enable it to achieve adequate water supply services ..
Suitability of SROP Ph IV construction and operation
In selecting the required site, consideration was given to the following main criteria are
considered:
a) Technical
b) Institutional
c) Environmental
d) Economical
e) Ecological
f) Geotechnical
g) Land ownership
6.4.2 Technical criteria for suitability

a) Land cover
b) Situated near the zones to be served
c) Access and distance to existing major roads
d) Distance to (existing) major roads
e) Geological and Hydro geological foundation, Soil, texture
f) Other Restrictions
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6.4.3 Institutional criteria for suitability

a) Permits of construction and operation of SROP Ph IV
b) Land Availability (sufficient area)
c) Other restrictions (e.g. military zone)
d) Respect of existing municipal zoning (nearby or industrial area, residential area, military
area)
6.4.4 Environmental criteria for suitability

a) Permits of construction and operation of SROP Ph IV
b) Land Availability
c) Health Threat to the environmental or people
d) Aesthetic effects and integration with existing architecture
e) Presence of housing, marine wildlife or area to be protected
f) Proximity to residences
g) Impact of emissions
6.5 Dredging Technology

Dredging practices and the kind of equipment has evolved considerably in recent years to
increase dredging efficiency and to minimize the potential adverse effects on the environment.
To some extent the environmental effects due to the re-suspension and settlement of sediments
during the excavation process can be minimized by selecting the most appropriate method of
dredging. A summary of the main dredging methods and types of equipment, their potential to
cause the re-suspension of sediments and how dredging equipment can be modified to improve
environmental performance are summarized below. There are several methods and equipment
generally used for dredging such as cutter suction dredger (CSD), trailing hopper suction
dredger (THSD), grab dredger also known as clamshell and back hoe dredger.
The type of dredgers used may not be an important consideration for all dredging operations.
For example when dredging in enclosed areas, such as docks or within docks, where there is
little potential for any adverse effects on the wider marine environment or in highly turbid
environments where any adverse effects due to sediment re-suspension are unlikely.
Consideration should be given to the type of dredger used where adverse effects on marine
animals and/or plants due to suspended solids have been predicted and cannot be avoided by
careful programming of the timing of the dredging works. Assessments on the most suitable
dredger to be used must be made on a case by case basis, giving consideration to both practical
and economic considerations. The type of dredger employed is often determined by the depth of
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water, scale of the maintenance operations, and the type of material to be dredged, and can be a
question of meeting the supply and demand equation.
6.5.1 Trailing Suction Hopper Dredger

A Trailing Suction Hopper Dredger (TSHD) is mainly used for dredging loose and soft soils
such as sand, gravel, silt or clay. One or two suction tubes, equipped with a drag head, are
lowered on the seabed, and the drag head is trailed over the bottom. A pump system sucks up a
mixture of sand or soil and water, and discharges it in the ‘hopper’ or hold of the vessel. Once
fully loaded the vessel sails to the unloading site. The material can be deposited on the seabed
through bottom doors, or reclaimed by using the ‘rain bowing’ technique. The material can also
be discharged through a floating pipeline to shore, and used for reclaiming land.
Figure 6.2: Schematic view of a trailing suction hopper dredger, offshore sand dredging and
reclamation operations
The main issue with a TSHD near a coral reef is the creation of turbid plumes (Figure 6.3). At
the dredging site such plumes result from the overflow, from turbulence caused by the ship’s
propellers or from the intake bypass (where unsuitable material is discharged directly to the sea).
Figure 6.3: (Left) TSHD discharging by rainbow technique (Right) Typical sediment plume
behind TSHD
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6.5.1.1 Discharging
There are several ways to discharge a TSHD. The most common way is dumping the material.
• Dumping - This is done by simply opening the doors that close the hopper. Once opened
the substance will simply drop to the seabed because of gravity. The hopper will never
be completely empty because there will always be some residue and water left inside.
• Pressing - High pressure pumps will pump water inside the hopper to loosen or even
liquefy the substance, which can then be pumped via long hoses over great distances (f.i.
ashore)
• Rainbowing - This is the same principle as pressing, but instead of transporting the
substance it will simply be blown away. This is often used to create land.
• Crane - It is always possible to discharge the load with a crane, but this will be a time
consuming process.
6.5.2 Cutter Suction Dredgers

Cutter suction dredgers (CSDs) are classified as hydraulic dredgers and are the most common
vessels in the hydraulic/mechanical category. CSDs have the ability to dredge nearly all kinds of
soils (sand, clay, rock) and are used where the ground is too hard for trailing suction hopper
dredgers.
There are two types of cutter suction dredgers:
• CSDs which have a pontoon hull without the means of propulsion (non-propelled), and
• Self-propelled CSDs that are shaped like a ship and are seagoing.
All CSDs are equipped with a rotating cutter head, which is able to cut hard soil or rock into
fragments. The cutter head is a rotating mechanical device, mounted in front of the suction head
and rotating along the axis of the suction pipe. The cut soil is then sucked in by dredge pumps.
CSDs cut the soil according to a pre-set profile. The dredged material is then pumped ashore
using pumps and a floating pipeline or loaded into a split hopper barge moored alongside, which
in turn can then offload the dredged sediment at the designated location. The cutting action of a
CSD is powerful and, combined with the suction action, the material can be ‘cut’ into suitably
sized pieces. These pieces are then sucked into the suction pipe as a solid/water slurry and
pumped to the surface using pumps mounted on a structural device which extends towards the
seabed known as ‘the ladder’.
CSDs can be used for land reclamation, for deepening channels and for the installation of intake
and out fall pipes i;e pipeline trenching in the seabed. When the dredged material is being used
for land reclamation, the distance between the dredging and disposal areas is usually shorter than
the distances covered by trailing suction hopper dredgers. CSDs can tackle almost all types of
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soil, although of course this depends on the installed cutting. Certain modifications can be made
to the dredger operation to minimize the spread of sediments and these are discussed in more
detail in Chapter 8 – Environmental Mitigation.
Figure 6.4 : Example of cutter suction dredger

6.5.3 Back Hoe Dredger
A Backhoe Dredger (BHD) is basically a pontoon equipped with a hydraulic excavator. To
stabilize and secure the pontoon three spuds are installed. The excavator will excavate the soil,
and discharge it into a split hopper barge that is moored alongside the pontoon. The split hopper
barge unloads the soil at the deposit area. A backhoe is a hydraulic excavator with a single
digging bucket positioned on the end of a two-part articulated arm. Land-based backhoes are
typically mounted on the back of a tractor or front loader that has an undercarriage with wheels
or with tracks. A backhoe dredger (BHD) is water-based excavator that evolved from the land-
based backhoe. The water-based backhoe dredger is a stationary, hydraulic crane mounted on a
dedicated dredging pontoon that often has a rotating table. The word “backhoe” does not refer to
its location on the back of a vehicle or pontoon. It refers to the action of the shovel, which digs
by drawing earth backwards, rather than scooping material with a forward motion like a steam
shovel or a bulldozer or a dipper. In dredging operations both land-based and water-based
backhoes may be used.
The backhoe excavator itself can be either an integral part of the dredging vessel with its own
pontoon or a crane excavator mounted on an external pontoon. Excavators are produced by
various manufacturers and have been adapted for maritime operations. In all cases, the excavator
itself must be mounted securely on a pontoon that can absorb the shock of its digging activities.
Older types of BHDs utilized a wire-operated integral excavator that was very heavily built to
allow for dredging of hard materials such as old masonry and unblasted rock. But these types
have been in general replaced by hydraulically operated backhoes
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Figure 6.5: Example of Back Hoe Dredger.

6.5.4 Grab or Clamshell Dredger
The grab dredger is the most common used dredger in the world It is a rather simple and easy to
understand stationary dredger with and without propulsion. In has a hold in which it stores the
dredge material, otherwise barges transport the material. The dredgers can be moored by anchors
or by poles (spuds). The most common types are boom type clamshell dredgers with a boom that
can swing around a vertical axis. Beside these, but considerably less in number, are the overhead
cranes, with the trolleys, like the ones used for the transshipment of bulk goods in ports. The
capacity of a grab dredger is expressed in the volume of the grab. Grab sizes varies between less
than 1 m3 up to 200 m3. (Figure 6.7)
Figure 6.6: Shows a rough overview of the most common grab sizes.
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Figure 6.7: Example of Grab or Clamshell Dredger.

The clamshell most common and is used in silty, clayey and sandy materials. In mud the yaws in
general have flat plates without teeth. In sand, clay and gravel, the yaws are fitted within each
other grabbing teeth. The two halves, shells, rotate around a hinge in the lower sheave block and
are connected with the upper sheave block by rods. The closure/hoist cable is reefed several
times between the head and the disc block to generate enough closing force. In mud the yaws in
general have flat plates without teeth. In sand, clay and gravel, the yaws are fitted within each
other grabbing teeth. For the removal of contaminated soil closed clamshells are used to avoid
spillage.
6.5.5 Water Injection Dredging
Water Injection Dredging is a hydrodynamic dredging technique that should be taken into
consideration as a cost-effective, environmentally sound solution to some specific dredging
operations. Dredging works can be complex and costly, accounting for a substantial proportion
of the budget of a maritime project. To effectively plan and execute a dredging operation, to be
able to select the most appropriate dredging plant, requires extensive knowledge of the material
to be dredged as well as the environmental circumstances of the site to be dredged. Since the
mobilization and capital costs of dredging plant are quite significant, choosing the wrong vessels
and methods can have severe economic consequences. Appropriate ground and environmental
surveys are fundamental to the success of dredging operations, from both a technical and an
economic perspective. Water Injection Dredging has very specific limitations but in the
appropriate situation it also has very specific benefits.
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Figure 6.8: Example of water injection dredging.

6.6 Placement Options
6.6.1 Direct Placement
There are a number of methods of direct placement, not all of which are suitable for this project.
Bottom dumping using a split hull vessel is not appropriate due to the shallow water depth and
the fact that the dredged material will be used for beach recharge; bottom dumping methods are
more useful for land reclamation. Mechanical dredgers can place material using direct means (or
a hopper barge could be employed). At the material placement site the generation of plumes is a
function of the placement method (direct or hydraulic), prevailing water depth, hydraulic
conditions and the turbulence caused by vessel propellers. Direct placement generates a pulse of
high turbidity for a short duration, which is then dispersed according to the prevailing currents.
Choice of placement sites should therefore take the proximity of sensitive receivers into account.
6.6.2 Rain-bowing
Rainbowing is a technique for spraying of dredged material from a TSHD to a receiving site by
pumping it with high speed through a nozzle over the bow or the side of the dredger. The
pumped material forms an arc that resembles the shape of a rainbow . It is commonly used once
a reclamation area has become too shallow for direct placement. Rainbowing into a reclamation
cell that is still below the water line results in a much larger suspended sediment plume,
compared to rainbowing onto a reclamation cell that is already above the water line, or behind a
pre-formed bund. The technique is not recommended for use with materials with high
percentage fines.
6.6.3 Pipeline Transport
In effect this is a form of direct placement. Pumping ashore can also be used to place dredged
material from a TSHD onshore, though it is more commonly used with a CSD and a barge. The
dredged material must be mixed with significant volumes of seawater in order to create slurry
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suitable for pumping. Typically, the supernatant is controlled by the use of bunds and sediment
cells to enable settlement of solid and to improve water quality before it is discharged, although
direct discharge may be appropriate in certain circumstances. As the discharge is often
continuous, choice location should take the proximity of sensitive areas into account of the
discharge. Where sand is pumped, the resulting turbidity is typically confined to a small area
near the discharge due to the low fines content in the supernatant. Where silts and clays are
pumped, turbidity and stability are more problematic. Clays, when pumped, will fluidize and
therefore should not be pumped into un-bunded areas on land or directly onto the seafloor.
Pipeline transport is the most environmentally friendly transport method in the dredging
industry. The only major disadvantage is the requirement to mix the excavated material with
transport water. This increases the volume for storage and/or further treatment, which in the
case of contaminated fine-grained sediments can be a serious issue.
6.6.4 Land Based Techniques
Conventional reclamation techniques are performed by using bulldozers to construct small
training dykes that control and direct the flow of the dredge discharge. This allows the fill
material to be placed at the required widths and elevations as the fill progresses. Once the
temporary pipeline is removed from an area, the final grading is done if required. A Front End
Loader equipped with logging forks can be used to assemble and maintain the dredge pipeline
on the fill area. As the fill progresses, the landing point of the pipeline coming from the dredge
is moved closer to the fill point, and the temporary pipeline is broken apart and carried forward
to advance the fill.
6.6.5 Dewatering
Whichever placement methodology is adopted the sediments will need to be dewatered -
removal of excess water from the slurry to produce dry sediments. There is a risk that fine
material suspended in the water column can be dispersed back to the sea during this process.
There is contaminants with them a further risk that these sediments could carry pollutants and
Therefore some means of containment, generally by bunding, which allows the sediments to
settle and the water to be discharges only when it meets he required standard needs to be
implemented. This is also true of sediments excavated in the dry as the interstitial water could
still be discharged above the required standard. It is important that the discharge back to the
marine environment is controlled through a silt trap arrangement and a pipeline. The resultant
discharge should not exceed the standard for discharge waters as set out in the GAMEP,
Environmental Standards.
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6.7 Summary of Environmental Risks Associated with Dredging and Placement

Indicates the environmental risks associated with different dredging and placement options.
Environmental Balance Establishment demonstrate mitigation measures commensurate with the
environmental risk factor in the method statement but only methodologies that result in low risks
will be acceptable.
Table 6.3 Environmental Risks Associated with Dredging and Placement
Type of Dredger Type of Material Risk Significant
Sediment Plumes
Backhoe Dredger Loading to barges with clean sand Low
Backhoe Dredger Loading to barges with material of Medium
medium to high silt content
Land based excavation Loading material to barges in dry or Low
semi dry conditions
Land based excavation Removal in dry or semi-dry Low
conditions and using land based
equipment to place in temporary
storage area in the sea
Land based excavation Removal in the dry or semi-dry and Low
placing directly in trucks for removal
Cutter Suction Dredger (CSD) Removal of sand from temporary Medium
pumping directly ashore dump in the sea and pumping to
shore
CSD pumping directly ashore Dredging sand with medium to high Medium
silt content
Discharge to open reclamation Sand with medium high silt content High
Discharge to impounded Sand with medium high silt content Low
reclamation using lagoons and
weirs to control silt
Depositing of material on seabed Clean sand Low
as temporary stockpile
6.8 Evaluation of Dredging and Placement Options

Mechanical excavation may cause minimal disturbance and dilution of clays compared to
hydraulic methods used by cutter dredgers and TSHD dredgers, but may cause pulses of high
turbidity as the grab or bucket is hauled through the water, especially in loose silts and soft clays
where a significant fraction of the load may be washed out. These pulses of high turbidity can be
minimized or avoided by the use of a ‘closed’ grab dredger, though these are only commonly
used in the removal of contaminated sediments. Either of the mechanical options listed above
would be suitable for the excavation of intake and outfall pipelines for SROP Ph IV Project,
provided that the amount of material to be dredged is excessive. If the sediments are
contaminated then the closed grab method may be optimal. The alternative is to conduct removal
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in the dry or semi-dry conditions which completely avoids the spread of sediments. CSD is also
equipped with state-of-the-art technology and offer the following features:
• dismountable and transportable over land
• allows for single-handed operations
• easily customizable with a wide range of optional equipment
• low emissions and environmentally-friendly operation.
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SECTION 7: ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS

IDENTIFICATION AND ANALYSIS
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SECTION 7: ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS IDENTIFICATION AND ANALYSIS
7.1. Introduction
7.1.1. Screening of Potential Impacts due to SROP Ph IV Development
This section of the ESIA report provides an assessment of the potential impacts on different
identified environmental components, which are likely to occur during the pre-construction,
construction and operational phase of the off shore construction works of Shoaiba RO Plant
Phase IV Project. However, the majority of the assessed impacts can be mitigated through the
incorporation of mitigation measures at appropriate stages of off shore construction works of
Shoaiba RO Plant Phase IV Project. This will ensure minimum damage to the environment due
to off shore construction works of Shoaiba RO Plant Phase IV Project development.
Possible impacts from the off shore construction works of Shoaiba RO Plant Phase IV Project
development include impacts on the natural environment, impacts on the social and economic
environment and impacts on the built environment. Positive and negative impacts are considered
during the ESIA study. In addition to identifying the general potential impacts from the
development, an analysis of the key impacts is also required by GERRI 2001, Appendix 2.4
Guidelines for Compiling an Environmental and Social Impact Assessment Study and Equator
Principle II 2013
Once the potential impacts have been identified an assessment of the significance of these
impacts is also undertaken. The purpose of assessing the significance is to identify those impacts
that are deemed significant and require mitigation. Impact significance is determined by
professional judgment considering both receptor sensitivity and the magnitude of change from
the baseline condition.
It should be noted that for some of the discipline areas there will be no or negligible impact as a
result of the proposed off shore construction works of Shoaiba RO Plant Phase IV Project
development hence these disciplines have been scoped out of any further assessment. This
decision is taken once the baseline assessments have been undertaken and is based on
professional judgment.
Impacts scoped out of assessment
• Archaeology and cultural heritage (construction and operation impacts have been
scoped out as the site is not sensitive and no impacts are predicted)
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• Landscape and visual impacts (construction and operation impacts are scoped out as
the site is not of landscape character value and there are no key views into or out of the
site)
• Transport impacts (construction and operation impacts have been scoped out as the
transport both within and outside the SROP Ph IV project will have adequate capacity
and the development of the SROP Ph IV and infrastructure will not impact on this
capacity). This may require to be studied after 5 years.
Impacts to be considered
• Marine and coastal (construction and operational impacts have been scoped further in
as the development will potentially impact on the marine habitats and species)
• Coastal and Terrestrial fauna (construction impacts have been scoped in as the
development may affect coastal flora and fauna )
• Socio-economic (construction and operational impacts have been scoped in as the SROP
Ph IV development is likely to generate employment & provides the required domestic
water supply and have impact on human life)
• Air quality (construction impacts have been scoped in as the SROP Ph IV development
is likely to cause air pollution)
• Use of resources (construction and operation impacts are scoped as the potential for
energy consumption is significant in terms of the overall energy consumption at the
SROP Ph IV)
• Noise and vibration (construction impacts are scoped due to the high background noise
levels on-site and presence of sensitive receptors )
• Waste management impacts (construction and operation impacts have been scoped as
the development both during construction of SROP Ph IV will generate significant
volumes of waste)
7.1.2. Impact Magnitude

The magnitude of impact is the degree to the state of an environmental resource resulting from
the proposed SROP Ph IV development. An appropriate scale was developed for each
environmental topic, ranging from negligible impact (no change or imperceptible change) to
high impact. The evaluation of impact magnitude considers the duration (short/medium/long
term), probability, magnitude, spatial extent, reversibility and the likelihood of indirect effect.
Impact can be either adverse or beneficial.
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7.1.3. Sensitivity of the Receptors

Each potential receptor (e.g. human population, marine habitats, and water resources) was
assigned a level of sensitivity to change, ranging from negligible sensitivity to high sensitivity.
This level of sensitivity was based on the perceived value of the receptor (e.g. local, district,
regional, national or international significance) and its sensitivity to a change in existing
conditions. These judgments were informed by legislation or guidelines where these were
available or were otherwise based on typical practice during ESIAs of similar developments
in the kingdom.
7.1.4. Meteorological Parameters

The entire project area is in a tropical region with very low rainfall. There is no change in the
macro-climatic setting (precipitation, temperature and wind) is envisaged due to the SROP Ph
IV project. The microclimate is likely to be temporarily modified by vegetation removal. The
overall impact on meteorology of the region is not going to be significant and therefore, the
impacts have been categorized as low.
7.2. Air Environment

7.2.1. Key Potential impacts during the Construction Phase of SROP Ph IV
In the pre-construction phase the activities like site clearance, site leveling, movement of
workers and materials, construction work i.e., labor colonies, offices, material storage and
maintenance yards etc. and construction of haul roads for movement of vehicles will generate
dust. In the pre- construction stage dust would be the predominant pollutant due to these
activities.
It should be noted from the wind rose that the predominant wind directions, particularly for high
winds, are:
• From the South West and hence would carry dust and noise out to sea; and
• From the North east and hence would carry dust and noise to the South West.
It is observed that the wind from the South East, which would carry dust and noise. However
noise abatement and dust suppression measures and procedures proposed in the SROP Ph IV
development plan for the Project, noise and dust will not be a significant issue as there are no
sensitive receptors nearby to SROP Ph IV .
7.2.2. Key Potential impacts during the Construction Phase of SROP Ph IV

The important activities during the construction phase of SROP Ph IV project that produces
gaseous pollutants and particulate matter and affect the air quality are listed below:
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• Reclamation of the Land for SROP Ph IV Project : The land area for the SROP Ph IV
Project will be filled in and built up above sea level through the importation of suitable
material from the dredging operations. Much of this operation will be through the piping
in of hydraulic fill; hence dust and noise will not be an issue. Some material will have to
be re-handled through the use of bulldozers, hydraulic loaders and tipper trucks.
• Leveling, digging works for trenches for laying pipelines, erection of poles and posts,
material storage, transportation and handling of construction materials like cement, sand,
and aggregates and operation of stone crushers are the activities due to which suspended
particulate matter will increase. Construction and other allied activities, operation of
concrete batching plants, movement of construction vehicles will generate gaseous
pollutants and particulate matter.
• Besides site leveling, construction of internal roads, and other SROP Ph IV construction
activities will affect its surrounding places. Movement of heavy vehicles will also
increase the amount of suspended particles and other pollutants.
• During construction phase of SROP Ph IV , dredging will be carried out extensively in
order to install intake and out fall pipe lines for SROP Ph IV to its design depth. There
will be considerable amount of exhaust emission from the dredgers.
• Appropriate mitigation measure should be employed during this stage to reduce the
pollution level to acceptable GAMEP limits. As described for the pre-construction phase
however, natural wind directions in the region will also serve to limit nuisances caused
by these operations.
7.2.3. Key Potential impacts during the Operational Phase of SROP Ph IV project
During the operation phase of SROP Ph IV there are no significant effects as once the
installation of intake and outfall pipelines for SROP Ph IV completes there are no source of Air
Pollution exists at SROP Ph IV offshore.
Table 7.4: Assessment of Air Quality Impact Significance
Description of Receptor and its Magnitude of change Significance (pre-
potential Impact sensitivity from baseline mitigation)
Generation of dust Receptor – People Minor – a large portion Moderate
during construction High – poor air quality of the construction adverse
phase of SROP Ph IV could impact on the health works will be wet hence
developments of workers it is unlikely that there
impacting the health will be significant levels
of workers of dust generated
Emissions form Receptor – People Negligible – it is Minor adverse
vehicles operating High – poor air quality unlikely that many items
during construction could impact on the health of heavy duty plant will
phase of SROP Ph IV of workers be operating at once
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developments generating a significant

impacting the health level of emissions
of workers
7.3. Key Potential impacts from Noise and Vibration at SROP Ph IV site
7.3.1. Key Potential impacts during the Pre-Construction Phase at SROP Ph IV site.
Noise level during this phase will increase due to the activities like movement of leveling and
construction machinery and vehicles, clearing of obstructions from proposed SROP Ph IV
development area, construction activities i.e., construction of labour camp, onsite office,
construction material plants etc. However these activities are not likely to generate high noise
levels.
High noise is like to prevail for few days due to the movement of vehicles , cranes and other
machines, leveling vehicles such as Dozers, levelers ,excavators etc, but these will be for short
duration and only prevail during the phase of leveling. Major noise impact on macro level in not
significant.
7.3.2. Key Potential impacts from Noise and Vibration during the Construction Phase
During the construction phase, operation of concrete mixers, power shovels for digging trenches
would generate appreciable amount of noise. There will be leveling machines which will create
noise considerably. Bull dozers, levelers ,excavators and , tippers etc are reported to be
operating with high noise limits. But all such impacts will be temporary in nature and will cease
as soon as the construction work is over. The main sources of noise during construction period
are:
Site preparation, dredging, land reclamation, leveling, trenching of sea bed for installation of
intake and outfall channels for SROP Ph IV , piling, transportation of material, handling of
material, other engineering works like riveting, hammering, cutting, welding etc, operation of
power shovels, concrete mixing plants will add up the noise level of the area.
The construction vehicles for loading and unloading, fabrication, handling of equipment and
materials is likely to cause an increase in the ambient noise levels. The areas close to the site
will be affected. The main item of construction is the trenching of sea bed for installation of
intake and outfall channels for SROP Ph IV .
Increased construction work is likely to result in:
• At the peak of the construction an increase of about 10 dB(A) is expected to occur.
• The peak noise levels for non-continuous construction activity may be as high as 90 dB
(A).
In order to better understanding the typical noise levels generated by some of the construction
equipment are given Table 7.2.
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Table 7.5: Noise Level Generated by Construction Equipment

Equipment Noise Level (dB (A) Reference Distance
Earth Movers
Front Loaders 72-84 0.9 m
Backhoes 72-93 0.9 m
Dump Trucks 76-96 0.9 m
Scrapers, Graders 80-93 0.9 m
Pavers 86-88 0.9 m
Heavy Trucks 82-94 0.9 m
Material Handlers
Concrete Mixers 75-88 0.9 m
Concrete Pumps 81-83 0.9 m
Cranes 75-86 0.9 m
Stationary
Generators 71-82 0.9 m
On the whole, the impact of generated noise on the environment will not be significant,
reversible, short term and local in nature but is the constructional work is to operate in round the
clock then continuous noise will be generated.
7.3.3. Key Potential impacts from Noise and Vibration during the Operational Phase
During the operation phase of SROP Ph IV there are no significant effects from Noise as once
the installation of intake and outfall pipelines for SROP Ph IV completes there are no source of
Noise and Vibration exists at SROP Ph IV off shore .How ever there will be a slight increased
underwater noise at Intake and outfall is anticipated .
7.4. Waste Management at SROP Ph IV Project site

Potential impacts from waste generated by the SROP Ph IV Project include the following:
7.4.1. Key Potential impacts from wastes during the Construction Phase of SROP Ph IV
The construction activities at SROP Ph IV will potentially generate the following wastes: Excess
construction materials, including off cuts and packaging; Oils, fuels and other chemicals
generated by onsite maintenance and repair of construction equipment and machinery; Green
wastes from vegetation clearance; Excavation materials; Food wastes from construction
personnel; Site office wastes; and Human waste;
Poor waste handling procedures could potentially contamination of the soils, groundwater,
surface water and air; Poor storage and handling of waste materials, particularly food wastes,
could attract undesirable fauna, such as rats, flies and mosquitoes; and Poor construction
procedures that generate excessive wastes increase construction costs and results in disposal of
otherwise valuable resources.
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7.4.2. Key Potential impacts from wastes during the Operation Phase of SROP Ph IV
During the operation phase of SROP Ph IV there are no significant effects from wastes as once
the installation of intake and outfall pipelines for SROP Ph IV completes there are no source of
wastes exists at SROP Ph IV off shore .How ever there will be a possibility of clogging of macro
algae and sea grass and Jelly fish and other inert wastes ,dead animals at Intake and outfall is
anticipated .
7.5. Key Potential impacts on the Marine Environmental effects during trenching of sea
bed for installation of intake and outfall channels for SROP Ph IV
• Magnitude and frequency of the dredging activity.
• Method used for the dredging and disposal.
• Channel size and depth.
• The size, density and quality of the material.
• Intertidal area.
• Background levels of the water and the sediment quality, suspended sediment and
turbidity.
• Tidal range.
• Current direction and speed.
• Rate of mixing.
• Seasonal variability and meteorological conditions, affecting wave conditions and
freshwater discharges.
• Proximity of the marine habitat to the dredging or disposal activity.
• Presence and sensitivity of animal and plant communities (including birds, sensitive
benthic communities, fish and shellfish invertebrate).
Prediction of the potential effects that might be caused by dredging and/or dredged material
disposal in a marine environment cannot be made with any degree of confidence if these
parameters are not known on a site-by-site basis. Generally, the potential impacts of the
dredging and dredged material disposal can be summarized as follows:
• Removal of sub-tidal benthic species and communities.
• Short-term increases in the level of suspended sediment can give rise to changes in water
quality which can effect marine flora and fauna, both favorably and unfavorably, such as
increased turbidity and the possible release of organic matter, nutrients and or
contaminants depending upon the nature of the material in the dredging area.
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• Settlement of these suspended sediments can result in the smothering or blanketing of

sub-tidal communities and/or adjacent intertidal communities, although this can also be
used beneficially to raise the level of selected areas to offset sea level rise or erosion
(short-term impact vs. long- term gain).
The potential impact of the dredged material disposal depends largely on the nature of the
dredged material, if it is inorganic, organically enriched and/or contaminated and the
characteristics of the disposal area accumulative or dispersive areas. The potential impacts of the
disposal of maintenance dredging material if it is on the marine environment, such as the
disposal of heavily contaminated sediments, can be minimized to some extent, through the
GAMEP licensing process by the regulation and conditions imposed.
7.6. Key Potential Impacts to Marine Fauna at SROP Ph IV offshore works

Potential impacts to marine fauna associated with dredging and land reclamation are:
• Increased turbidity reducing the penetration of light in the water column and potentially
impacting the respiratory and feeding functions of invertebrates.
• Introduction of and/ or spread of exotic fauna species.
• Physical injury to cetaceans due to vessel strike.
• Habitat degradation and reduction.
• Impacts to marine species from changes in marine water quality associated with dredging
such the mobilization of sediment bound contaminants, nutrients and lowering of
dissolved oxygen.
7.6.1. General Effects of Contaminants on Marine Life anticipated at SROP Ph IV off

shore works
• Whenever found in sufficient quantities in the food chain, contaminants may cause
morphological or reproductive disorders in shellfish, fish and mammals.
• Generally young shellfish and crustaceans (oysters, shrimp, crab and lobsters) are much
more susceptible to the toxicity of contaminants than adults.
• Concentrations of heavy metals in most cases are too low to cause adverse effects on sea
grass.
Although almost all dredged silts will contain some contaminants arising largely from the past
industrial activities typical of many coastal shoreline locations, fortunately, the occurrence of
very contaminated sediments is rare. The GAMEP assessment process prevents the disposal of
highly contaminated sediments in the marine environment at the first place, therefore generally
avoiding the occurrence of direct toxic effects on marine animals and plants.
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7.7. Key Factors influencing the potential Marine Environmental effects during trenching
of sea bed for installation of intake and outfall pipelines.
• Magnitude and frequency of the dredging activity.
• Method used for the dredging and reclamation.
• Trench size and depth.
• The size, density and quality of the material.(Gradation/Composition)
• Intertidal area.
• Background levels of the water and the sediment quality, suspended sediment and
turbidity.
• Tidal range.
• Current direction and speed.
• Rate of mixing.
• Seasonal variability and meteorological conditions, affecting wave conditions and
freshwater discharges.
• Proximity of the marine habitat to the dredging or disposal activity.
• Presence and sensitivity of animal and plant communities (including birds, sensitive
benthic communities, fish and shellfish invertebrate).
Prediction of the potential effects that might be caused by dredging and/or dredged material
disposal in a marine environment cannot be made with any degree of confidence if these
parameters are not known on a site-by-site basis. Generally, the potential impacts of the
dredging and dredged material disposal can be summarized as follows:
• Removal of sub-tidal benthic species and communities.
• Short-term increases in the level of suspended sediment can give rise to changes in water
quality which can affect marine flora and fauna, both favorably and unfavorably, such as
increased turbidity and the possible release of organic matter, nutrients and or
contaminants depending upon the nature of the material in the sea bed trench area.
• Settlement of these suspended sediments can result in the smothering or blanketing of
sub-tidal communities and/or adjacent intertidal communities, although this can also be
used beneficially to raise the level of selected areas to offset sea level rise or erosion
(short-term impact vs. long- term gain).
The potential impact of the dredged material disposal depends largely on the nature of the
dredged material, if it is inorganic, organically enriched and/or contaminated and the
characteristics of the disposal area accumulative or dispersive areas. The potential impacts of the
disposal of maintenance dredging material if it is on the marine environment, such as the
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disposal of heavily contaminated sediments, can be minimized to some extent, through the
GAMEP licensing process by the regulation and conditions imposed.
However, disposal of dredged material may lead to loss of shores, seabed, flora and fauna
within the reclaimed areas. Besides this, disposal will exert more pressure on natural resources
such as corals and more pressure on fishery resources. This is because pollutants that discharged
into sea affect the fishery resources and marine environment. Apart from this, reclamation would
have caused the flow outside the channel to slow, seawater purification declines, frequency and
intensity of algae bloom increase which would also affect fisheries activities. The aim of this
study was to investigate the effects of SROP Ph IV trenching of sea bed for the installation of
intake and outfall pipelines project and to identify what are the impacts that will affect the
marine life and habitat when there are dredging works going on .
7.7.1. Land reclamation works

Since the volume of dredged material is quite small compared to other dredging works the
dredging material either can be used for reclamation or filling. If it is for land reclamation which
can have adverse effects on the marine environment. As this activity normally takes place along
the coast it mainly influences coastal and near shore marine habitats, (e.g. sandbanks, mudflats)
Marine habitats are permanently lost where land is reclaimed from the sea. Land reclamation
may also influence habitat types of coastal and terrestrial origin. Since marine sand is usually
used as construction material large scale land reclamation, the impacts of sand extraction also
have to be considered with regard to the overall impacts. If the land reclamation is undertaken
in coastal areas may have a significant effect on local ground water systems as well following
reclamations water tables rise and the salt water – fresh water interface moves seaward.
7.7.2. Removal of benthic animals

7.7.2.1. Recovery of benthic communities following dredging activities
During all dredging operations, the removal of material from the seabed also removes the
animals living on and in the sediments (benthic animals). With the exception of some deep
burrowing animals or mobile surface animals that may survive a dredging event through
avoidance, therefore, dredging may initially result in the complete removal of animals from the
excavation site.
Where the intake and out fall trench has not been subjected to continual maintenance dredging
over many years , it is unlikely that well-developed benthic communities will occur in or around
the area. However, certain marine species and communities are more sensitive to disturbance
from dredging than others. For example, during dredging if coral beds (calcified seaweed) or
Sabellaria reefs (reef forming marine worms) are present it may result an irreversible damage of
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these sensitive, slow growing species. These are important habitats, generally associated with
the habitat of sub-tidal sandbanks. It is, however, unlikely that such sensitive marine
communities would develop in close proximity to the undisturbed habitat of the proposed intake
and outfall trench area .
The recovery of the disturbed habitats following dredging ultimately depends upon the nature of
the new sediment at the dredge site, sources and types of re-colonizing animals, and the extent
of the disturbance. In soft sediment environments, recovery of animal communities generally
occurs relatively quickly and a more rapid recovery of communities has been observed in areas
exposed to periodic disturbances.
7.7.2.1.1. Recovery of benthic communities after dredging activities

A review of dredging works in coastal areas world-wide showed that the rates of recovery of
benthic communities following dredging activities in various habitats varied greatly with the
benthic sediments characteristics which are indicated as follows:
Table 7.6: Benthic Habitat Recovery Rate
Habitat type Recovery time
Disturbed Muds 4 weeks
Channel muds 6 months
Lagoon muds >11 months
Sands-gravels 1-2 years
Muds-sands 18 months
Gravels >2 years
Sands 3 years
Shells-sands 10 years
Recovery rates were most rapid in highly disturbed sediments in seas that are dominated by
opportunistic species. In general, recovery times increase in stable gravel and sand habitats
dominated by long-lived components with complex biological interactions which controlling
community structure.
Benthic studies which suggest that dredging has only a short term effect on the animal
communities of silty and clay sediments. Although almost complete removal of organisms
occurs during dredging activities, however recovery begins within 1 month after dredging and
within 2 months the communities were reported to be similar to pre-dredge conditions. Other
studies suggest that dredging impacts are relatively short term in areas of high sediment mobility
(Hall, Basford & Robertson 1991).
In view of this previous studies on benthic communities, since the habitat type in this project is
mostly sands and gravel, it is anticipated that a full recovery of the benthic community will be
established within 1 -2 years after the dredging activities
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7.7.3. Coral Reefs at SROP Ph IV off shore construction site

Coral Reefs are large, long-lived bio-geological structures that include all associated plants and
animals. They are marine ridges or mounds formed from the deposition of calcium carbonate by
living organisms, predominantly hard corals, but also by other organisms such as coralline algae
and shellfish. Excessive sedimentation can adversely affect the structure and function of the
coral reef ecosystem by altering both physical and biological processes. Dredging often affects
not only the portion of the reef which is actually removed or smothered but also downstream
areas where currents carry increased concentrations of fine suspended particles. Continual re-
suspension and transport of dredged sediments can cause reef degradation years after dredging
cease.
7.7.4. Sedimentation due to dredging

Sedimentation can alter the complex interactions between fish and their reef habitat. Fish graze
on dead coral, breaking down the calcium carbonate skeleton and producing large quantities of
sediment; provide nutrients in their wastes; and feed on coral larvae, thereby influencing the
reef's structure. Increased sediment suspension (turbidity) in marine waters due to the dispersal
of reclaimed sediment during dredging and reclamation of the container terminal and causeway
has the potential to reduce light penetration, smother benthic habitats and reduce water quality;
Re-suspension of contaminants in sediments during dredging, reclamation and erosion can
remobilize metals from the sediments into the water column. They may then enter aquatic
organisms through body and respiratory surfaces, and by ingestion of particulate matter and
water.
7.7.5. Contamination of seawater due to dredging.
Release of contaminants into the marine system including: Litter and construction waste carried
by wind, dewatering runoff ; and Construction related contaminants such as grease, heavy
metals, solvents, effluent and fuel through accidental spills, inadequate storage and management,
vehicle wash down and overuse of water for site road wetting.
Due to increase in concentration of heavy metals that would have a negative impact on the water
quality at the part of the Red Sea in the area, and ultimately the marine ecology of the area.
Anthropogenic sources of metals include: Industrial and municipal waste products; Urban and
agricultural runoff; Fine sediments eroded from catchments such as the delta and smaller wadis
adjacent to the site; and Antifouling paints from ships (mainly tin and copper).
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7.7.6. Key Potential impact on Hydrology and Bathymetry of SROP Ph IV off shore
construction works
Based on a preliminary hydrodynamic modeling assessment conducted by DHIC/SWCC for
SROP Ph IV intake and outfall trench area and for the nearby projects to SROP Ph IV , the
potential impacts on hydrology and bathymetry from the SROP Ph IV project includes the
following:
• Slight changes in tidal currents will likely occur around the intake and outfall channels .
This change is due to the greater volume of water which is predicted to pass over specific
locations either side of the channels (i.e. reduced flow areas) with greater velocities;
• Given the close symmetry of the flood and ebb tidal currents in the vicinity of the
channel, the likelihood of significant sedimentation or erosion appears unlikely and
Pollutants;
7.7.7. Predicted changes to hydrodynamic regime and geomorphology

General statements about the impact of dredging on the hydrodynamics and geomorphology of
a site cannot be made as these effects are very site specific, and very difficult to isolate from
other 'forcing effects', such as sea level rise or reclamation, which are often little understood.
Although all dredging activities can cause some change to the hydrodynamic flow, the
magnitude and the type of effect are often related to the overall size of the excavation compared
to the overall size of the whole system in that area. Most reported adverse effects of dredging
operations on hydrodynamics and geomorphology of coastal areas were associated with the
dredging operations.
The overall effect of dredging on the hydrodynamics and geomorphology of a site has all the
complexity of a capital scheme but the actual impacts are much smaller. In many cases
the magnitude of dredging related to hydrodynamics & geomorphology alterations may fall
well within the range of naturally occurring phenomena and probably impose little or no
additional stress to marine features.
Choosing the disposal site could, however, cause a regular removal of sediment from the
transport system which could affect the erosion and sedimentation processes and ultimately
the form of the sea , possibly depriving downstream coastal areas of sediment required to
maintain coastal stability. Equally important, if the sediment is placed back within the same
system, although the net change is insignificant the locations of maximum sediment
concentration may change promoting additional siltation in specific areas. Increased erosion of
mud and sand sections may have numerous implications on the ecology of marine habitats and
species. For example a reduction in the lower intertidal area may lead to the reduction of site
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intertidal communities and a subsequent loss of bird feeding grounds, this can be of a possible
benefit, however, of better fish breeding grounds. In contrast, careful design of disposal can
result in intertidal areas being increased.
7.7.8. Effects from Suspended sediments and turbidity

During dredging activities and dredged waste disposal of non-contaminated fine materials in
coastal waters, the main environmental effects are the suspended sediments and the increases in
water turbidity. All methods of dredging release suspended sediments into the water column,
during the excavation itself and during the flow of sediments from hoppers and barges. In many
cases, the locally increased suspended sediments and turbidity associated with dredging and
disposal is very obvious from the turbidity ‘plumes’ which may be seen trailing behind the
dredgers or disposal sites. Turbid water will appear cloudy, murky, or otherwise colored,
affecting the physical look of the water. Suspended solids and dissolved colored material reduce
water clarity by creating an opaque, hazy or muddy appearance. Turbidity measurements are
often used as an indicator of water quality based on clarity and estimated total suspended solids
in water.
The increase in suspended sediments and water turbidity levels from dredging activities and
disposal operations may under certain conditions have adverse effects on marine animals
and plants by reducing the light penetration into the water column and by physical disturbance.
For maintenance dredging, the extents of these environmental effects are near-field only and
temporary and generally only lasting as long as the dredging operations are taking place.
7.7.9. The general effects of increased suspended solids and turbidity levels
Increased suspended sediments can affect filter feeding organisms, such as shellfish, through
clogging and damaging their feeding and breathing organs. Similarly, young fish can be
damaged if suspended sediments become trapped in their gills as increased fatalities of young
fish have been observed in heavily turbid water. Adult fish are likely to move away from or
avoid areas of high suspended solids, such as dredging sites, unless food supplies are increased
as a result of increases in organic material.
Increases in turbidity results in a decrease in the depth that light is able to penetrate the water
column which may affect submerged seaweeds and plants, such as sea grass, to temporarily
reducing productivity and growth rates. The tolerance of sea grass to high turbidity is indicated
by the survival of a very sparse bed near the turbidity.
Background suspended solid and turbidity levels in marine environment are highly variable and
dependent on the site conditions. In many sea waters background turbidity levels are high.
Organisms in these environments are normally able to tolerate continuous exposure to high
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suspended sediment concentrations, for much longer time than if it would occur in most other
dredging operations.
However, marine plants and animals living in areas where the waters are normally clear may be
especially vulnerable to the effects of increased suspended sediments.
• The degree of re-suspension of sediments and water turbidity from dredging activities
and disposal depends on four main variables:
o the sediments being dredged (size, density and quality of the material),
o method of dredging (and disposal),
o hydrodynamic regime in the dredging and disposal area (current direction and
speed, mixing rate, tidal state), and
o the existing water quality and characteristics (background suspended sediment and
water turbidity levels).
Dredging activities often generate no more suspended sediments and/or water turbidity than
commercial shipping operations, bottom fishing or turbidity generated during severe storms.
Furthermore, natural events such as storms, floods and large tides can increase suspended
sediments over much larger areas and for longer periods of time than dredging operations. It is
therefore often very difficult to distinguish the environmental effects of dredging from those
resulting from natural processes or normal navigation activities.
Dredging and land reclamation dredge material is likely to create short-term higher sediment
loads in the water column. Potential environmental impacts of turbidity include:
• Reduced visibility
• Increased light attenuation (decreased light availability) resulting in decreased
photosynthesis and growth of benthic communities where affected (particularly sea grass
in summer months)
• Deposition of particles and burying of the substratum including benthic communities
• Scouring and abrasion of benthic organisms and habitats by particles being moved by
wave motion.
• Physiological impacts to marine filter feeding fauna through clogging of respiration and
filter feeding morphological features.
In most cases, sediment re-suspension is only likely to present a potential problem if it is moved
out of the immediate dredging location by tidal processes. Therefore when dredging activities
are in an enclosed areas, such as within locks or dock basins where, there is little likelihood that
material will be transported to a wider environment and effect the marine features, the impact is
very minimum normally. In general, the effects of suspended sediments and turbidity are
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generally short term (<1 week after activity) and near-field (<1km from activity). One
would generally only needs to be concern if sensitive species are located in the vicinity of the
dredged channel.
7.7.10. Effects from Organic matter and nutrients

The release of organic rich sediments during dredging or dredged waste disposal could cause the
removal of oxygen from the surrounding water in the near field area around the dredging
activities. Depending on the location and the timing of the dredging it may lead to the
suffocation of marine animals and plants within the localized area around dredging or may deter
migratory fish or mammals from passing through. However it is important to stress that the
removal of oxygen from the water is only temporary, as tidal exchange would quickly replenish
the oxygen supply.
Therefore, in most cases where dredging and dredged waste disposal is taking place in open
coastal waters, bays and inlets, this localized removal of oxygen from water has little, if any,
effect on marine life. However, despite the temporary nature of the effect, if oxygen depletion
were to occur during an important life stages of sensitive species, such as the peak spring
migration, the effects could be adverse.
The re-suspension of sediments during dredging and dredged waste disposal may also result in
an increase in the levels of organic matter and nutrients available to marine organisms. This can
result in two main effects:
• In certain cases, such as a localized area which is adapted to low nutrient conditions or it
is sensitive to the effects of eutrophication which can simply be described as a nutrient
enrichment process leading to the formation of algal blooms near the intake and outfall
jack wells . These blooms can reduce the surrounding water quality by causing the
removal of oxygen from the water during the blooms break down or by (occasionally) by
the release of toxins which may disturb marine wildlife. The potential formation of algal
blooms in coastal and estuarine areas is generally limited by high turbidity levels and
tidal flushing.
• In other cases, increased organic material, nutrients and algal growth may provide more
food for zooplankton and higher organisms, with possible knock-on effects on the
productivity of the marine ecosystem. For example, there is evidence of increased
productivity of benthic communities that receives considerable amounts of dredged
materials. The beneficial effects are reported to be a result of organic enrichment from
the dredged material and also due to the stabilization of sediments through the
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incorporation of fine organic matter. Increased suspended sediments as a result of

dredging operations may have resulted in increased numbers of filter- feeding brittle star
and fan worm. However, if the communities that are present in the vicinity of the
disposal sites rely on low nutrient levels than any nutrient enrichment is unlikely to be
beneficial.
7.7.11. Settlement of suspended sediments
Sediments dispersed during dredging and dredged waste disposal process may resettle over the
seabed and the animals and plants that live on and within it. This blanketing or smothering of
benthic animals and plants may cause stress, reduced rates of growth or reproduction and in the
worse cases the effects may be fatal. Generally sediments will settle within the vicinity of the
dredged area, where they are likely to have little effect on the recently disturbed communities,
particularly in areas where dredging is a well-established activity. However, in some cases
sediments are distributed more widely within the estuary or coastal area and may settle over
adjacent sub tidal or inter tidal habitats possibly some distance from the dredged area.
The sensitivity of marine animals and plants to siltation varies greatly and will be discussed
briefly below. In areas with high natural loads of suspended sediments, the relatively small
increases in siltation away from the immediate dredging area are generally considered
unlikely to have adverse effects on benthic populations.
Assessment of the effects of siltation from other previous dredging process concluded that some
smothering of benthic animals was inevitable. It was also suggested that given the area is
subjected to dredging of channels for intake and outfall pipelines and that the adjacent sub
tidal and inter tidal areas appear to be productive, it is conclusive that it is unlikely that the
effects from the proposed dredging program will have anything more than temporary and fairly
localized impacts.
7.7.12. Key Potential Impact of acid sulfate soils

The acid sulfate soils are naturally occurring soils containing iron sulphide minerals, which
when disturbed or exposed to oxygen, are oxidized and acid is produced as a result. The acidic
runoff can contaminate ground and surface waters, and cause heavy metals to be released from
contaminated sediments. Soils in which the sulfides have not been oxidized are often called
Potential Acid Sulfate Soils . Dredging and reclamation both have potential to expose acid
sulfate soils by manipulation of water levels and/or exposure of material to air.
Construction activities which have the potential to cause acid sulfate soils related impacts
include:
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• Shallow excavations;
• Deep excavations; and
• Dewatering.
7.7.12.1. Environmental Impacts

Potential acid sulfate soils impacts from SROP Ph IV off shore construction activities include:
• Uncontrolled surface runoff in areas of exposed actual acid sulfate soils , causing the
release of acid into the environment;
• Changes to surface run-off patterns promoting the release of acid into the environment;
• Leaching of acid into the environment at treatment sites;
• Exposing acid sulfate soils at/near new drains or realigned creeks, thus causing the
release of acid into the environment in the short and long term; and
• Exposure of acid sulfate soils to the air, in new drains or realigned creeks, thus causing
increased oxidization and increased release of acid into the environment.
7.8. Summary of impacts of trenching of sea bed for installation of intake and outfall
channels for SROP Ph IV during Construction Phase
SROP Ph IV off shore construction phase impacts are associated with the physical removal or
burial of marine flora and fauna within the footprint of the SROP Ph IV project. These impacts
are inevitable and are referred to as direct impacts. It is not practical, or possible, to mitigate this
type of impact other than by carefully selecting the area to be dredged to ensure that no excess
material is removed.
Process impacts on coastal and marine ecosystems during the construction phase are typically
dominated by those impacts associated with sediment plumes resulting from the release of fine
sediments during dredging and/or material placement. Sediment plumes generated from
dredging and placement activities can result in some or all of the following:
• Increased turbidity, leading to:
o Reduced light penetration availability to flora and fauna
o Reduced recruitment potential (i.e. lower larval production rates, larval dispersal
and their survival)
o Reduced photosynthetic rates leading to lower primary productivity
• Increased sedimentation, leading to:
o Smothering of benthic flora and fauna
o Reduced recruitment potential as above
o Increased susceptibility to pathogens
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• Poorer water quality leading to:

o Reduced levels of dissolved oxygen
o Re-suspension of pollutants from (contaminated) sediments
The severity and spatial extent of sediment plume impacts depend, to a large degree, on:
Proximity/location of any sensitive receptors relative to the work site in relation to the direction
of the sediment plume which is determined through sediment plume modeling
• Prevailing water depth, current and wave conditions in the area
• Source strength at the work site, which is influenced by the work method e.g. choice of
equipment, production rate
• Nature of the material forming sediment plume ;primarily grain size the composition
• Duration and frequency of the sediment plume effect at a given location
• Degree of contamination of the dredged material
Depending on these factors, there can be a considerable spatial and temporal variation in the
effects associated with sediment plumes. In some cases, the impact may be confined close to the
work area, whilst in others the prevailing currents may transport fine sediments over large
distances, with documented cases of impacts occurring > 70 km from the work site as per the
available literature.
Effects from activities related to the construction phase will also include noise and vibration
effects (e.g. from vessel operation, etc.), air pollution and land-related effects.
From the available literature it was found that Insofar as the relocation process is concerning the
physical effects of the relocation process. These include:
• Occupation of space and surfaces: The major effect, especially for relocation on land, is
the occupation of the ground and the alteration of the natural habitat at the location.
• Dispersion of the dredged material: At land-based relocation sites, erosion and dispersion
by wind can occur after the relocated materials have dried. Also, fine sediment can be re-
dispersed by poorly decanted effluent from placement sites or settlement ponds.
Noise and air pollution: The placement action, especially when the relocation site has to be
formed with trucks and other earth moving equipment, can generate noise and air pollution
problems.
Groundwater Quality: If the selection of the relocation site is incorrect and the design or
construction of any protective measures (e.g. liners) is poor, the groundwater can be affected by
leakage.
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Table 7.7 :Summary of Impacts from trenching of sea bed for installation of intake and
outfall channels for SROP Ph IV.
Phase Type of Impact Nature of Impact
• Increased Turbidity • Temporary in nature but may have
• Enhanced permanent consequences
sedimentation • Frequent, high risk
• Physical damage & • Scale and duration varies depending
Construction abrasion on size, type of project, local
• Water quality effects conditions and degree of
• Burial of marine management
flora and fauna
• Hydrodynamic • Mostly long term or permanent
Post Construction changes due to (can be positive)
modified bathymetry • Scale and risk depending on size
• Water quality changes and type of project and local
• None • Often incidental
• Few minor impacts • Risk depending on scale of
Operational from maintenance maintenance and degree of
works management
• Often localized
7.9. Key Potential Impacts on water resource and drainage pattern
7.9.1. Key Potential Impacts during preconstruction phase

During preconstruction phase of SROP Ph IV , there is a possibility of siltation of water quality
at sea due to site clearance and its allied works, although this is well managed will be negligible.
7.9.2. Key Potential Impacts during construction phase

Water will be used considerably during the off shore constructional phase of the SROP Ph IV .
Water will be used regularly for mixing of cement, mortar, human use, plant and machinery,
housekeeping etc. There is a probable increase in the water demand load in this area, but this
will be very small in relation to the total water usage in SROP Ph IV . However, Shoaiba area
has a shallow ground water table and hence water demand is not an important issue. Also, there
will be considerable amount of waste water generated during construction phase of SROP Ph IV
. This water, if drained untreated, will lead to pollution. Paints, oil & oil sludge too will come in
contact with water and hence could degrade the water quality. These liquid wastes, if allowed to
seep into the ground, could affect the ground water quality. This in turn would have an adverse
effect to the users who utilizes this source for domestic purposes.
Trenching of sea bed for installation of intake and outfall channels for SROP Ph IV works may
affect ground water quality. The dredging of sea bed up could have an impact on ground water
table and could induce saline water intrusion. However, the SROP Ph IV design includes for the
land to be extended into the existing sea and hence the excavation will be offshore. This issue
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has to be studied in detail and if determined that this could be an issue then the design of the
pipeline should incorporate a cut off to prevent saline water polluting fresh groundwater.
Similarly the dredging operations, could affect the water quality of the sea adjacent to the SROP
Ph IV and the trench mouth both in terms of increased turbidity of the water bodies and
increased pollution due to dredged or spilt contaminants. If poorly managed construction
operations could have adverse impacts on the aquatic flora and fauna. However, adequate further
investigations and studies are planned to be undertaken in the design phase of the project to
ensure that mitigation measures are put in place to mitigate and concerns in this respect.
During the construction phase of SROP Ph IV , dredging and intake and outfall installation
method statements will be required to ensure that the possible effects of these operations on flora
and fauna keep turbidity and pollution levels below critical levels where required.
The dredged material will be used for filling and leveling. This will alter the local drainage
pattern and the SROP Ph IV design should ensure that the new drainage pattern incorporates that
all surface and other drainage be appropriately treated before being discharged to surface or
groundwater bodies.
Oily wastes will be generated from equipment used in construction work and must be similarly
treated as for drainage water.
7.9.3. Potential Ecological Impacts

Should an introduced species become a successful invader in its new environment, it can cause a
range of ecological impacts. These include:
• competing with native species for space and food,
• preying upon native species, altering habitat, altering
• Environmental conditions e.g. increased water clarity due to mass filter-feeding), altering
the food web and the overall ecosystem and displacing native species, reducing native
biodiversity and even causing local extinctions.
7.9.4. Impact of Oil Pollution

There are a number of ways that oil may be introduced into the marine environment, including
the equipment operational, accidental and discharges from neighbouring desalinization plants
and power plants of Shoaiba area, tanker accidents resulting in major oil spills, dumping of
industrial wastes, sewage and industrial discharges and atmospheric deposition. It is difficult to
assess the effect of oil in the marine environment because of the large variation in sources,
quantities, and nature of the oil, also the physical, chemical and biological conditions of the
environments involved. The majority of research relating to the effects of oil on the marine
environment relates to major oil spill events, usually from accidental spills ,accidents etc , the
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environmental effects of which are well known by all, particularly the associations with oiled
birds and mammals. However, very little literature describes the effects of chronic discharges
from run-off or numerous small discharges of oil, which are common in discharge and intake
areas. Some of the potential effects of oil on the environment is presented below. As well as
causing environmental damage, oil pollution can be very costly to clean up.
7.9.5. Potential effects of oil on the environment

• Marine animals and plants tend to be tolerant of low level concentrations of oil in
sediments from chronic or small discharges; however this is not always the case.
• Exposure to major and minor oil spills can lead to the mass mortality of benthic
communities, fish, marine mammals and birds.
• Conversely, the effects of major oil spills on marine habitats and species can often be
temporary and non-fatal
• Contamination of sediments with oil may modify chemical, physical and biological
processes. Contaminants can be trapped in the sediments and later released as a result of
disturbance, such as erosion.
• In sediments, as it is organic, oil will be broken-down relatively quickly by micro-
organisms which may result in the localized removal of oxygen from the sediments and
surrounding water with possible effects on marine life.
• The persistent toxic constituents of oil, such as heavy metals, can become stored in the
sediments and taken up into the food chain. Therefore, following large oil spills, even
where animals recover in diversity and density, they may continue to suffer physiological
and behavioural disorders which can result in reduction of growth and reproduction, and
in the worse cases, death.
• The breakdown of oil tends to be slowest in intertidal areas, which leads to the highest
concentrations and longest residence times.
7.10. Turbulence and aeration
Turbulence caused by the action of the propeller results in aeration of the water column.
Concerns have recently been expressed over the potential impacts of large water jet propelled
vessels on marine life, in particular that plankton and marine micro-organisms would be
destroyed by the rapid pressure changes as water passes through water jet propulsion units.
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7.11. Key impacts on Ecological Resources at SROP Ph IV

7.11.1. Flora
There is no appreciable vegetation cover in SROP Ph IV area. Only few shrub vegetation cover
can be seen at north of SROP Ph IV site.
Within the SROP Ph IV site boundary, surveys to date have shown that only the following flora
exists:
• Within the land of the existing SROP Ph IV site area there is only scrub vegetation of no
ecological value.
• Within land bounding the SROP Ph IV site extremely sparse and stunted vegetation can
be seen and of no significant value.
7.11.2. Fauna
7.11.2.1. Terrestrial Fauna of SROP Ph IV site
There are no reserve , scrub jungle, bird sanctuary, and wildlife sanctuary near the SROP Ph IV
site development area. Few migratory birds have been noted which are presented in Chapter 5.
They include teals, pochards waders which mainly migrate from Africa. As the project site is
away from their location no adverse impact is envisaged.
Table 7.8 : Assessment of Terrestrial Ecology Impact Significance at SROP Ph IV site
Description of Receptor and its Magnitude of Significance (pre-
potential Impact sensitivity change from mitigation)
baseline
Disturbance to birds Receptor - Birds Moderate – the Minor
during construction Moderate – Few are construction of the adverse
of SROP Ph IV site observed on the site SROP Ph IV site
developments however the site is known will not result in the
to have significant bird loss of bird feeding
population or breeding grounds
or change the
existing baseline
conditions
surrounding the site
Disturbance to birds Receptor - Birds Negligible – the Minor
during operation of Moderate– Few are construction of the adverse
SROP Ph IV site observed on the site the Intake and outfall
site is known to have pipeline jack wells
significant bird will not result in the
population loss of bird feeding
or breeding grounds
or change the
existing baseline
conditions
surrounding the site
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7.11.3. Aquatic Fauna of SROP Ph IV off shore site
There are various kinds of fishes that are found in the SROP Ph IV site coastal waters. Details of
the same are described in the Chapter 5.
During the trenching of sea bed for installation of intake and outfall channels for SROP Ph IV
during the off shore construction phase, there may be an increase in the concentration of
hydrocarbons, heavy metals and suspended solids in sea water.
These activities will adversely affect the existing marine ecosystem. Increased turbidity and light
attenuation with depth may reduce the primary productivity of the marine species. Increase in
the bio wastes may lead to bioaccumulation of metals among commercially important fishes.
Table 7.9: Assessment of Marine and Coastal Impact Significance

Description of Receptor and its Magnitude of change Significance
potential Impact sensitivity from baseline (pre-mitigation)
Direct loss of Receptor – Coral reef and Moderate – a large Minor adverse
habitat/species due fish species change from the
to general SROP Ph Low – no valuable habitat baseline unlikely as no
IV construction and present at trenching of sea valuable coral present
piling works bed for installation of but moderate as some
intake and outfall channels fish species maybe
for SROP Ph IV present
development area
Disturbance to live Receptor - Coral, fish High – coral is already Moderate
coral reef and fish species in poor condition adverse
species found in High – very low live coral directly adjacent to the
areas surrounding is present at the site but site, However there is
the site due to some live coral is known live coral further a
sedimentation to be present in areas off field.
intake and out fall site . Sedimentation could
Also some fish species cause detrimental
known to inhabit the impacts on coral and
waters of the project site fish species
hence considered highly
sensitive
Contamination of Receptor – Aquatic Moderate – a major Moderate
water from species spill could cause a large adverse
construction Moderate – a number of change but it unlikely
activities causing species have been that there will be
damage to aquatic identified during the significant amount of
species ecological survey hazardous materials
contained within
construction equipment.
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7.12. Human Use Values

7.12.1. Health and Safety
(a) Issues during Pre-construction Phase
No impact on health and safety has been envisaged in design phase. In the pre-construction
phase dust will be produced due to site clearance but should only be a minor issue.
(b) Issues during construction phase SROP Ph IV
A full health and safety plan will be required to prepare by all contractors and other
organizations working on the sites. These will be approved by the SWCC the developer and both
organizations will monitor their adherence.
(c) Issues during operational phase of SROP Ph IV
installation of intake and outfall pipelines for SROP Ph IV completes there are no issues of
health and safety are anticipated.
7.13. Land Acquisition and Resettlement

The possible negative impacts of the project on the local people are acquisition of land,
relocation of housing, land use changes. But SWCC already acquired the land and negative
impact to public will not be an issue.
On the positive side, the construction phase will trigger job opportunities for local labours and
business potential for material suppliers. The SROP Ph IV Project will create new jobs within
the SROP Ph IV , thus providing direct benefit to these employees. Employment of a similar
number of persons has been found to be created in secondary employment due to secondary
activities surrounding the SROP Ph IV and other SROP Ph IV related activities, thus some
persons would gain from direct and indirect employment from the creation of the SROP Ph IV
Project .
Table 7.10: Assessment of Socio-Economic Impact Significance at SROP Ph IV project.
Description of Receptor and its Magnitude of Significance (pre-
potential Impact sensitivity change from mitigation)
baseline
Employment Receptor – people Minor – a number of Moderate
generation during High– the site is located jobs will be created beneficial
construction of near the City of during the
SROP Ph IV Shoaiba,Taif and Jeddah construction phase of
developments hence it is likely that the SROP Ph IV
local people will be project .however this
employed will be Relatively
short-term.
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7.13.1. Social and Economic

7.13.1. Impacts during Construction Phase of SROP Ph IV Project
The primary economic impact during construction of SROP Ph IV Project is likely to result from
local employment that is created during this phase. Given the significant unemployment levels
within Saudi Arabia, any creation of jobs is likely to prove welcome. As well as the direct
monetary uplift to the families of those employed, money paid to local workers will stimulate
the local economy.
It is expected, however, that a lack of necessary skills within the immediate local population will
be identified and as such it is probable that a significant proportion of work on the site will be
undertaken by expatriate workers, some of whom will already be working in Saudi Arabia. To
the extent that this results in the repatriation of wages, the impact on the local economy will be
reduced In addition to the direct monetary impact of employment created during construction;
there also exists the potential for the project to promote the dissemination of construction skills
from expatriate workers into the local labor force. During the construction phase the potential
exists for unofficial temporary settlements to arise in the site environment.
7.13.2. Impacts during Operation Phase of SROP Ph IV Project

installation of intake and outfall pipelines for SROP Ph IV completes there are no issues of socio
economic aspects are anticipated.
A significant economic impact during operation will result from any local employment created
by the project. Whilst the likely nature of these impacts and the effect of expatriate workers, is
largely unchanged from the construction phase, they are likely to be amplified somewhat by the
greater time-scales involved in the operation of the site. The increased time-scales involved also
offer an opportunity for greater dissemination of skills into the local workforce and via this for
the role of local workers to increase over time. A targeted local workforce will enhance this
process and consequently increase the benefit to the local economy. This is assessed as of
moderate to major positive impact.
Beneficial socio-economic impacts was also concluded resulting from the SROP Ph IV both to
the residents of Shoaiba, Jeddah and Taif , in terms of providing adequate water supply .which
will be in terms of improving their standards of living, creating more jobs to local residents and
allowing the development of the infrastructure in the area through building more facilities,
factories and governmental and private institution.
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7.14. Archaeology
There are no such areas are found near the SROP Ph IV project site. Hence no impacts due to
the construction and operation of SROP Ph IV Project.
7.15. Aesthetics in the vicinity of SROP Ph IV Project

7.15.1. Key Impacts during Construction Phase of SROP Ph IV Project
The activity will involve activities generate dust and noise, which will give an unaesthetic look
to the project site. The deterioration in aesthetic look of the project site cannot be avoided at this
phase proper mitigation measures are suggested to minimize the same. Aesthetics, views,
nighttime illumination, and daytime glare are related elements in the visual environment.
7.16.1. Impacts during Operation Phase

None are anticipated. During the operation phase of SROP Ph IV there are no significant effects
as once the installation of intake and outfall pipelines for SROP Ph IV completes there are no
aesthetics issues are expected at SROP Ph IV offshore.
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SECTION 8: MITIGATION MEASURES
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SECTION 8: MITIGATION MEASURES

8.1. Introduction
The environmental impacts as described in the Chapter 7 have not taken into account any
mitigation measures. Significant impacts as identified in GERRI 2001, Appendix 2.4 Guidelines
and Equator Principles II 2013 for Compiling an Environmental & Social Impact Assessment
Study and, are those considered to be of moderate or greater significance and warrant further
consideration in terms of mitigation. This chapter provides recommendations for the impacts
which have been assessed in Chapter 7 as being significant. It should be noted however that
many of the impacts that are not considered significant, and hence are not included in this
section, will be mitigated for through best practice construction measures. Detailed mitigations
of impacts during construction phase is discussed in Chapter 9 of this document and Part III of
this ESIA submittals . A marine modeling study has also been prepared to identify the suitability
of intake and outfall locations in an eco-friendly manner.
8.2. Mitigating Measures for Project Impacts
8.2.1. Recommended mitigation measures for reducing the key Potential impacts of
Project
8.2.1.1. Mitigation measures for protecting existing natural resources at SROP Ph IV
Project
The most conspicuous feature of the study area is its wider continental shelf compared to the
northern Red Sea coast; and, therefore, the shallow water extends seawards from the shore for
up to 50 km or more (IUCN, 1985a). This may explain the poor visibility in the study area
where the sub-tidal zone is subject to a great deal of sediment in suspension and on the seabed,
especially in the area designated for the development of R O Plants . Moreover, fine sands from
the adjacent sand dunes are driven to the shoreline by both air and rain water drainage.
The area is also characterized by the presence of low lying hills, coastal plain, sand dunes
mostly covered by halophytes, sand beaches and sabkhas that are periodically inundated.
The previous surveys described the presence of coral reefs in the area under investigation are not
sensitive areas. However, the present survey showed that there are no actual coral reefs in the
study area, but algal reefs with poor developing coral colonies, mostly Porites, and dominant
brown algae mostly Sargassum, Cystoseira and Padina with low faunal assemblage. Unlike the
central and northern Saudi Arabian reefs, these patches of algal reefs are already under stress of
turbidity with very poor coral fishes.
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8.2.2. Recommended mitigation measures for reducing the key Potential impacts on
Topography and Bathymetry at SROP Ph IV Project
To address these potential impacts, the following mitigation measures would be implemented:
Limit earthworks and the extent of filling to the minimum required for the SROP Ph IV
facilities; excavation material generated during construction should be reused within the Project
site; install fences, trees and shrubbery to minimize the visual impact of the Project; stabilize
landscaped areas of soil; and assess the hydrological conditions of the local wadis and other
watercourses to confirm the appropriate size and location for culverts and other drainage
structures.
8.2.3. Recommended mitigation measures for reducing the key Potential impacts on Soils
and Geology of SROP Ph IV Project
To address these potential impacts to soil and geology due to trenching of sea bed for
installation of intake and outfall channels for SROP Ph IV project, the following mitigation
measures would be implemented:
Construction: Water used for dust suppression during earthworks should meet municipal health
standards and should not exceed the salinity levels of the groundwater on site; The use of water
for dust suppression should be controlled to ensure that the amounts applied to internal roads
and tracks do not exceed the amounts required, and consequently cause excessive runoff and
erosion; Include appropriate seismic event response procedures in the site safety plan and site
induction training; Progressively compact (stabilize) the ground to minimize the erosion of
unconsolidated and unvegetated material; Undertake vehicle maintenance and refueling on
covered, impermeable surfaces (such as concrete slabs) with runoff to be captured in lined drains
and sumps and collected material taken to appropriate waste management facilities; Store fuels,
oils and chemicals in concrete lined and bunded areas, which are designed to contain 110% of
the total volume the bunded area is designed to store; Analysis of contaminant levels in the
dredged material should be undertaken to determine the appropriate use or disposal option, and
whether remediation is required prior to use or disposal to reduce contaminant levels to below
internationally accepted levels; Implement appropriate emergency spill response measures;
Develop and implement an erosion and sediment control plan that identifies the following:
Restrictions on vehicle movements to driving on defined internal roads and tracks as
appropriate; Excavation work plans to minimize the area of disturbed and unconsolidated soil;
Measures to manage surface runoff due to rainfall, site maintenance activities, or vehicle and
hardstand wash down; The formal drainage system developed for the site; Appropriate erosion
and sediment control structures such as geotextiles fabric and hay bales.
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Following mitigation measures are recommended to mitigate effect on Soils and Geology:
• Implement the spill response mitigation measures identified under Groundwater Quality;
• Water used for dust suppression during earthworks should meet municipal health
standards and should not exceed the salinity levels of the groundwater on site;
• The use of water for dust suppression should be controlled to ensure that the amounts
applied to internal roads and tracks do not exceed the amounts required, and
consequently cause excessive runoff and erosion;
• Progressively compact (stabilize) the ground to minimize the erosion of unconsolidated
and unvegetated material;
• Undertake vehicle maintenance and refueling on covered, impermeable surfaces (such as
concrete slabs) with runoff to be captured in lined drains and sumps and collected
material taken to appropriate waste management facilities;
• Store fuels, oils and chemicals in concrete lined and bunded areas, which are designed to
contain 110% of the total volume the bunded area is designed to store;
• Develop and implement an erosion and sediment control plan that:
o Restricts vehicles to driving on defined internal roads and tracks;
o Coordinates excavation work to minimize the area of disturbed and
unconsolidated soil;
o Incorporates measures to manage surface runoff due to rainfall, site maintenance
activities, or vehicle and hardstand wash down; and
o Incorporates the formal drainage system developed for the site;
8.2.4. Recommended mitigation measures for reducing the key Potential impacts on
Groundwater at SROP Ph IV Project
Following mitigation measures are recommended to mitigate effect on the Groundwater Quality:
• Implementation of the soil impact mitigation measures recommended under Soils and
Geology;
• In the event that groundwater is intercepted during excavation works, the water should
be pumped from the excavation pit and discharged to retention ponds to recharge to
groundwater or evaporate;
• Store fuels, oils and chemicals in concrete lined and bunded areas, which are designed to
contain 110% of the total volume the bunded area is designed to store;
• Develop and implement a Spill Response Plan, as part of an overall construction phase
Emergency Response Plan, to be followed in the event of a spill, outlining appropriate
response procedures, locations of spill response kits and delineating the responsibilities
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of site staff and communication requirements with DHIC and relevant authorities
SWCC. Appropriate training of staff and methodology for disposal of spills and cleanup
materials should also be developed;
• Maintain spill response and cleanup equipment close to construction and storage areas;
• Refueling, vehicle washing and vehicle and plant maintenance areas to be located within
designated bunded areas;
• A manifest for all stored liquids, container volumes and supporting Material Safety Data
Sheets (MSDS) should be kept in an accessible and protected location in the bunded area
and in a central location on site such as the site office;
• Programs for routine checking of machinery to ensure there are no oil, fuel or other
liquids leaking from earthworks equipment; and
• Provision of an appropriate system to contain effluent generated from workers amenities.
Any holding tank should be regularly emptied of effluent and disposed of at an
appropriate facility offsite.
8.2.5. Recommended mitigation measures for reducing the key Potential impacts on Air
Quality at SROP Ph IV Project
To address these potential impacts to air quality due to SROP Ph IV Project, the following
mitigation measures would be implemented:
8.2.6. Control of Dust Emissions
Minimize the area of land to be disturbed at any one time by staging construction activities;
Retain existing sparse vegetation for as long as possible prior to commencement of earthwork
activities; Dust generating vehicle loads transported to, from and on the SROP Ph IV Project site
should be covered by tarpaulin sheets and should not be overloaded; Regular use of water trucks
to suppress dust on high use site access and haul roads; Side enclosure and covering, by
impervious sheeting where practicable, of any aggregate or other dusty material stockpiles, and
placing of stockpiles in sheltered or covered areas; Cease earthworks in areas of visible dust
generation, where dust is moving in the direction of residential areas or other sensitive land uses;
Minimize drop height of excavated materials to a practicable level to limit fugitive dust
generation; Fence work areas, with the fence lined with cloth or fabric (such as green garden
type mesh) to minimize dust migration and generation off site; Undertake regular checks
throughout the day by DHIC Site Supervisor’s representative to visually inspect dust generation
and to recommend mitigation measures; Ensure compaction of soils as soon as possible
following earthworks to minimize areas of unconsolidated soils; and Implementation of a
construction phase dust monitoring program on site by incorporating use of a dust monitor such
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as a dust deposition gauge or volumetric air sampler to monitor respirable dust and nuisance
dust. This can provide trigger data to justify alteration of work practices during periods of high
dust generation e.g. strong winds.
8.2.7. Control of exhaust emissions
Use of modern machinery with adequate pollution control devices such as catalytic converters.
A manifest of all machinery used including date of manufacture, hours of operation,
maintenance schedule, fuel type and emissions control devices installed should be kept on site
by the DHIC Site Supervisor; Proper and efficient use and operation of construction vehicles,
plant and machinery by qualified and skilled personnel in accordance with the manufacturer’s
instructions; Use of appropriate fuels, including low sulfur diesel and unleaded petrol in
accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions; Regular maintenance and inspections for all
construction vehicles, plant and machinery to be documented and checked by DHIC Site
Supervisor’s representative in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions; Minimize
unnecessary idling and operation of earthwork and construction machinery, including efficiency
of trip times and reduction of double handling through appropriate placement of stockpiles, haul
roads, works depots and work areas. This will also aid in fuel efficiency and will assist in
reducing overall costs associated with unnecessary fuel consumption; Daily visual checks by a
representative of the DHIC Site Supervisor to ensure the above criteria are followed, particularly
in regards to smoky emissions from vehicles, vessels and plant; and Equipment with excessive
visual emissions should be given defect notices and taken out of service until repaired and
approved for redeployment by DHIC Site supervisor. The above mitigation measures will also
assist in reducing the emissions of carbon dioxide and nitrogen dioxide, which are greenhouse
gases.
8.2.8. Control of Volatile Emissions
The following management measures should be adopted during construction to minimize the
generation of volatile emissions from solvents paints and fuels stored or used at the SROP Ph IV
project site: Ensure all machinery is in good order and repair, and not leaking fuel or volatile
emissions from fuel tanks or fuel lines; The number of fuel and chemical storage areas should be
minimized and properly managed. A full list of all volatile fuels and chemicals stored on site
should be kept by the DHIC Site Supervisor, including accompanying volumes, locations and
MSDS; Ensure proper on site storage of volatile fuels and chemicals in appropriately sealed
containers, and in cool, covered areas with adequate venting. Avoid on site storage of highly
volatile fuels, such as unleaded petrol, and volatile chemicals such, as solvents and oil based
paints. The above measures will also assist in safety regarding the use and storage of dangerous
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goods.
8.2.9. Control of Odour
In the event that dredged materials generate odors upon exposure to the air; and to minimize
potential odor emissions, there should be provision of appropriate temporary amenities for
construction laborers and visitors to the SROP Ph IV project site. Amenities should be well
maintained and effluent storage facilities frequently emptied by a wastewater contractor for
offsite treatment and disposal.
8.2.10. Recommended mitigation measures for reducing the key Potential impacts on Air
Quality during Operation Phase of SROP Ph IV off shore structures
None is required . During the operation phase of SROP Ph IV there are no significant effects as
once the installation of intake and outfall pipelines for SROP Ph IV completes there are no
source of Air Pollution exists at SROP Ph IV off shore .
8.2.11. To mitigate effects on the Air Quality
None is required:
8.2.11.1. To mitigate effects of Odor
To minimize potential odor emissions, there should be provision of appropriate temporary
amenities for construction laborers and visitors to the proposed SROP Ph IV site. Amenities
should be well maintained and effluent storage facilities frequently emptied by a GAMEP
certified wastewater contractor for offsite treatment and disposal.
8.3. Recommended mitigation measures for reducing the key Potential impacts from Noise
and Vibration
8.3.1. To mitigate impacts during construction phase
Following mitigation measures are recommended to reduce Noise levels:
• Ensure all plant, machinery and vehicles are regularly maintained and broken parts (such
as mufflers) are replaced immediately;
• Ensure all plant, machinery and vehicles are operated efficiently and according to the
manufacturers specifications, by trained and qualified operators;
• Development and implementation of appropriate safety measures for SROP Ph IV site
personnel, including the provision of suitable hearing protection.
• Heavy trucks/Dump trucks, Dozers and Rollers should be maintained to be in good
condition with properly fixed silencers.
• All noise producing project equipment, plants, generators, should be equipped with
mufflers, air inlet, silencers where appropriate and any other shields or other noise
reducing features in good operating condition. Mobile or fixed “package” equipment
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such as arc welders, air compressors, shall be equipped with shrouds and noise control
features that are readily available for such type of equipment.
• All mobile or fixed noise producing equipment used in the project and that is regulated
for noise output by GAMEP should comply with such regulation while in course of
project activity.
• The erection of temporary sound wall barriers shall be considered where project activity
is unavoidably close to noise receptors.
• Regular maintenance of construction equipment are conducted for assurance of
mechanical performance. This includes the working performance of the fixed silencers.
• Material stockpiles and mobile equipment staging, parking and maintenance areas shall
be located on far as practicable from noise sensitive receptors.
• Construction site and haul road speed limits shall be established and enforced during the
construction activities.
8.3.2. To mitigate impacts during Operation Phase
The detail design for the Project site to include appropriate noise reduction measures, including
earth mounds and landscaping along the Project site perimeter;
None are anticipated .
During the operation phase of SROP Ph IV there are no significant noise and vibration effects as
once the installation of intake and outfall pipelines for SROP Ph IV completes there are no
source of Noise impacts exists at SROP Ph IV off shore .However a slight increase in the under
water noise near intake and outfall which can be controlled by noise barriers .
8.4. Methods of minimizing potential impacts of dredging and promoting benefits
Although historically the primary objective was to optimize dredging operations and its
economic benefits with little regard to the environment, today in most cases dredging projects
are evaluated and managed on the basis to minimize adverse environmental effects however,
whilst still maximizing economic and environmental benefits. There are now existing
procedures and regulations in place which are generally considered to effectively avoid and/or
minimize the environmental impact potential of dredging and disposal operations cause,
particularly the requirements of the GAMEP licensing process. In addition, in recent years,
dredging has become a more of a scientific process with greater emphasis being placed on
continuous survey on the channels design to minimize dredged volumes. Positive changes in
dredging practices have greatly reduced the amounts of material dredged over the past decade.
Improved dredging technology and position fixed equipment allows more precision techniques
which has resulted in real reductions in the amounts of materials dredged and deposited.
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In most cases, existing regulations and careful dredging practice techniques are sufficient to
avoid the potential impacts discussed above and further steps need to be taken. Where adverse
effects are identified on the site or as a precautionary approach is considered necessary, the
following actions may be taken to avoid or minimize impacts, many of which are already in
place in the dredging operation:
• Managing and informing contractors with regards to site specifics,
• Timing of dredging and disposal operations,
• Selection of Best Available Technique (BAT) dredging methods
• Reducing amounts of dredging,
• Promotion of beneficial use,
• Selection of best possible disposal sites, and
• Monitoring and record keeping.
8.4.1. Timing
Since the problems resulting from the increases in suspended sediments have been identified
in a marine environment, the timing of dredging and filling works may be planned, where
practical, in order to avoid and reduce any adverse impacts on sensitive marine features.
Timing can be considered both in terms of the local hydrodynamics, with the aim of minimizing
sediment dispersion and the extent of/or the area affected, and the ecology of the system to avoid
sensitive periods. Recognizing that timing restrictions can add considerably to dredging costs, a
closer look needs to be taken of the social and economic consequences of timing restrictions.
When planning the timing of the dredging operations common sense needs to be applied. In
addition to the ecological considerations, operational factors also need to be addressed such as
peak recreational and commercial periods in the area and seasonal weather conditions.
Therefore, a balance between nature conservation and operational interests needs to be found on
a site by site basis when planning dredging activities.
In order to reduce the movement of suspended sediment from the dredging area, dredging should
be undertaken at the most favorable points in the tidal cycle. This will vary from site to site, with
local hydrodynamic characteristics and the various methods of dredging undertaken. Tide data
of Red Sea near Shoaiba for 2017 has been presented in Part II of this ESIA submittals. To limit
the dispersal of suspended sediments, dredging operations may also be timed to divert the
movement of any suspended sediments generated from sensitive areas. For example, in order to
reduce impacts to sensitive communities upstream of the dredging activities, such as shellfish
beds, dredging operations can be limited to ebb tide. Usually , where appropriate, by dredging
on flood tides timing can be used to ensure that suspended sediment is retained within the
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system, instead of being washed out to sea. The disposal of dredged material may be timed to
either maximize or minimize the removal of sediments from the disposal site depending on the
nature of the site and the sensitivity of the surrounding habitats.
In order to limit the levels of suspended sediments released during sensitive periods to animals
and plants near the dredging and filling areas, the dredging program can be planned to avoid
important breeding, migrating and spawning times, egg, larval and juvenile stages or periods of
greatest growth. A physical barrier should be deployed to protect the egg, larvae during the
breeding season. These sensitive periods vary with different animals and to some extent from
site to site. Examples of some general sensitive periods are summarized in the table below.
Table 8.11 : Examples of general sensitive times for selected marine animals and plants
Type of Sensitive stage in life cycle Period
organism
Benthic animals Spawning Summer
Highest growth rates (shellfish) Early summer
Highest numbers of eggs and larval stages Early summer
(shellfish)
Fish Highest numbers of eggs and larval stages Early summer
Microalgae Highest growth rates (highest potential for algal Summer
(phytoplankton) bloom formation)
It is important to be aware that the sensitive periods for different marine animal and plant
species vary and in some cases, such as when considering sensitive periods for over wintering
waterfowl, this could restrict dredging periods to impossibly small windows of opportunity. In
such cases consideration will be required to find out what is the most important period
throughout the year to avoid and the measures that may be recommended to mitigate the residual
effect. GAMEP and Ministry of Agriculture and fisheries , as a conservation agency and other
environmental organizations and country wildlife trusts, can also advise on critical breeding,
rearing and migration periods that should be avoided in order to minimize potential adverse
effects on marine organisms in each marine environment. In most cases, such advice should be
coordinated by the Ministry of Agriculture and fisheries so that competing factors can be
evaluated and a rational judgment reached which can be fully explained to the dredging
contractor of SROP Ph IV .
8.4.2. Selection of Dredging Options
The contractor’s choice of equipment normally considers aspects such as:
• Volume-handling capacity which influences the duration of the operation
• Excavation depth range which can influence the ratio between excavation volume and
affected sea bed area
• Accurate shaping and delineation of the excavation volume
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• Dredging material handling technology

However, for dredging / trenching of sea bed for installation of intake and outfall channels for
SROP Ph IV around sensitive areas, the choice of equipment must also carefully consider issues
such as spill release rates and spill characteristics for the specific bed material to be excavated.
In this case the shallow nature of the area, the hard substrate and the contaminated areas mean
that the selection of land based equipment is recommended.
8.4.3. Deployment of Silt Curtains
Protective silt curtains or screens can be used with grab and backhoe dredgers in order to
decrease the amount of suspended sediment being transported outside the dredging area
particularly important in respect of the contaminated sediments or to be placed around sensitive
recreational areas. The use of silt curtains is reported to considerably reduce the loss of
suspended sediments from the dredge area, by up to 75% where current velocities are very low.
However they are generally ineffective in areas with high wave action and current velocities
which exceed 0.5 m/s.
In some cases, silt curtains deployed in proximity of an environmental receptor may reduce
turbidity impacts where the material being dredged is principally fine sediments and where
currents and wave action do not preclude their deployment. In those cases where deployment at
a sensitive receptor location is considered, care must be taken to prevent physical damage to the
receptors from the anchors and/or grounding of the silt curtain.
• Generally silt screens are most effective if the following conditions occur:
• Complete enclosure of the dredging equipment with a silt screen.
• Complete enclosure of the dredging zone itself.
• Protecting a sensitive area (seagrass bed) nearby the dredging site.
• At any dewatering outlets and settlement ponds.
• Combination of these options.
The installation of such a physical barrier is in any case often a difficult operation which
demands great skill and experience on the part of the dredging contractor in order to avoid
problems of leakage through the curtain. The contractor will need to consider the following
features during the planning and installation of such a curtain:
• Surface of the site to be surrounded.
• Water depth to be protected.
• Currents to be expected ;both speed and direction are of importance.
• Wave climate at the site to be protected.
• Size of sediments to be retained.
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• Movement of the dredging equipment during the project.

8.5. Recommended mitigation measures for reducing the key Potential impacts from
Wastes at SROP Ph IV
8.5.1. During construction phase
Prepare a Waste Management Plan (WMP) that addresses the following:
• No wastes are to be land filled within the Project site or dumped into the surrounding
waters; Efficient ordering and use of construction materials to avoid generation of excess
materials; Reuse excavated material within the SROP Ph IV Project site;
• Provision of appropriate containers to dispose of food waste that will prevent access by
local fauna and pest species;
• Order construction materials with limited packaging, where practical; Separation of
reusable and recyclable materials from other waste streams;
• Waste storage areas should be well maintained and contained to minimize the potential
for leaching or runoff to contaminate soils and water;
• Waste storage areas should be located in a cleared area outside of drainage lines, and
should be afforded protection from wind to prevent wind driven refuse reaching marine
waters;
• Hazardous wastes should be handled, stored, transported and disposed of in accordance
with relevant
• GAMEP guidelines. Wastes should be regularly transported from the SROP Ph IV
Project site to appropriate waste management facilities or landfills;
8.5.2. Recommended mitigation measures for reducing the key Potential impacts from
Wastes during Operation Phase
installation of intake and outfall pipelines for SROP Ph IV completes there are no significant
source of wastes anticipated at SROP Ph IV off shore .
How ever following measures to be implemented.
To reduce the impact Waste generation:
Following mitigation measures are recommended to reduce the impact Waste generation:
• Develop and implement a Waste Management Plan (WMP) that includes the following
management measures:
o Reuse of excess excavated material within the site.
o Dead organisms, Sea Grasses ,Jelly fish etc and macro algae near intake and
outfall jack wells should be disposed of safely following proper guidelines ;
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o Waste storage areas should be well maintained and contained to minimize the
potential for leaching or runoff to contaminate soils and water;
o Hazardous wastes such as coagulants ,oil ,Corrosion protection materials should
be handled, stored, transported and disposed of in accordance with GAMEP
guidelines;
o Wastes should be regularly transported from the SROP Ph IV site to appropriate
waste management facilities or landfills;
o No waste materials are to be disposed of onsite; and
o Human waste should be treated at STP located inside the SROP complex.
8.6. Recommended mitigation measures for reducing the key Potential impacts on Marine
Water and Sediments
To address these potential impacts, the following mitigation measures should be implemented:
8.6.1. During Construction Phase
Sedimentation: Engineering controls (tidal dredging, minimizing duration of dredging, seasonal
restrictions e.g. avoiding seagrass flowering periods or coral spawning periods, limiting over
dredge quantities, stopping dredging when turbidity thresholds are exceeded; Physical barriers
confined land disposal, and use of silt screens or pneumatic silt curtains; Environmental
dredging techniques hydraulic dredging techniques, encapsulated bucket lines for bucket chain
dredgers, closed clamshells for grab dredgers, auger dredgers, disc cutters, scoop dredgers and
sweep dredgers and sub suction dredging ; and Detailed environmental modeling and monitoring
turbidity plume dispersion modeling, assessment of turbidity thresholds, seagrass and coral
monitoring and mapping, research on seagrass recovery, salvage of coral for use in
transplantation to mitigate losses, post dredging seagrass and coral restoration.
Storm water / Contamination of seawater: Establish appropriate aggregate and materials storage
with sealed floors and impermeable walls that minimize the amount of storm water passing over
the stockpile; Locate aggregate and material stockpiles on flat areas away from water drainage
flow paths e.g. wadis, to minimize runoff from sediment rich sources; Establish sealed and
bunded storage areas for fuels and chemicals to be stored on site; Limit the height and slope of
stockpiles to minimize erosion of unconsolidated materials; Divert storm water around work
areas to storage sits where practicable; Use of gross pollutant traps to remove littler and gross
pollutants from dewatering and storm water discharge; Regular inspections of all erosion and
sedimentation controls during the construction period to maintain their continued effectiveness;
Preparation of an emergency response plan to be implemented in case of a spill.
This should detail appropriate response procedures, provide the location(s) of spill response and
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cleanup equipment, delineate the responsibilities of site staff and describe the communication
requirements with site management and relevant authorities. Appropriate disposal of spill and
cleanup materials should also be described; Hazardous liquids such as fuels and chemicals
should be stored in accordance with a dangerous goods management plan in secure bunded
compounds during construction. These compounds should be capable of holding at least 1.5
times the volume of the anticipated capacity of the storage area; Creation of a materials safety
and data sheet (MSDS’s) for all stored liquids to be kept in an accessible and central location.
Recommended mitigation measures for reducing the key Potential impacts to mitigate
effect on the Marine Water Quality
Following mitigation measures are recommended to mitigate effect on the Marine Water
Quality:
• Implementation of the spill response mitigation measures identified under Groundwater
Quality;
• Dredging vessels excavating the intake and outfall pipeline trenches should be restricted
to designated areas wherever possible;
• Equipment and vessels should be in good working order and not leaking fuel or volatile
emissions;
• Appropriate storage and handling of fuels and chemicals on vessels;
• Daily inspection of the water surface in the surrounding sea for any visual signs of recent
pollution;
• The dredging contractor of DHIC should select a dredging methodology that minimizes
the re-suspension of sediments and provides a higher degree of precision in dredging;
• The dredging contractor of DHIC should select a reclamation methodology that
minimizes the re-suspension of sediments and provides a higher degree of precision in
dredging;
• Suspension of dredging activities during unfavorable weather conditions;
• Develop and implement a sediment sampling and analysis program to determine the
existence and extent of sediment contamination in the proposed SROP Ph IV intake and
outfall trenches ;
• Investigate the selection of an appropriate dredge material spoil ground away from
sensitive coral reef and seagrass habitat; and
• Development and implementation of mitigation measures to minimize and control
impacts at the selected spoil ground.
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8.6.2. To mitigate impacts on Marine water quality during Operation Phase of SROP Ph
IV
installation of intake and outfall pipelines for SROP Ph IV completes there are no source of
marine water pollution anticipated at SROP Ph IV off shore .
However a storm water drainage system should incorporate the following water sensitive
industrial design principles wherever practicable, prior to discharge: A hydrological study
should be carried out to examine the drainage requirements for the SROP Ph IV Project
including appropriate level of treatment and filter of storm water discharge; Control of potential
pollutants at the point of infiltration; Use of catchment pits to remove litter, heavy sediment and
the majority of hydrocarbons in the storm water runoff; and Investigation into the potential for
the storage and reuse of the non-potable storm water (e.g. for irrigation or firefighting purposes).
8.6.3. To mitigate impacts on Marine and Sediment Quality
To prevent the deterioration in water quality and impact on marine ecology, limitations must be
imposed on the spreading of sediments through the use of land-based equipment, speed of
placement operation, and employing good management of reclamation material. Water quality
should be monitored to maintain compliance with GAMEP ambient water quality standards
8.7. Recommended mitigation measures for reducing the key Potential impacts from oil
pollution
Contingency planning is an important step in ensuring effective response to oil spills. Response
teams include operations, and communications personnel. Action planning includes stopping the
flow of oil, containing the oil, and cleaning it up.
8.7.1.1. Oil Spill Contingency Plan
An oil spill response Plan should implemented at SROP Ph IV . The objectives of the oil spill
contingency plan are as follows:
• Ensure the safety of the personnel in the event of an oil spill
• Minimize the environmental impact of an oil spill
• Protect the shareholders assets
• Minimizing business disruption
• Minimizing risk of damage to the Group’s reputation
• Minimizing harm to the people
To achieve this oil spill response Plan will,
• Respond immediately to any incident with the objective of protecting human life and to
minimize environmental impacts
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• Work and consult with appropriate with appropriate government bodies, GAMEP and
the local community to address any issues relating to oil spills in a timely manner
• Provide adequate training and information to enable employees and contractors to adopt
environmentally responsible work practices, to be aware of the responsibilities in the
prevention and clean-up of oil spills
• Develop emergency plans and procedure so that incidents accidental releases can be
responded to in a timely manner
• Develop and maintain management systems to identify, control and monitor risks and
compliance with government regulations and industry guidelines
• Where third party interests are involved ,such as products and or chartered vessels , the
company will assess the situation and take timely and appropriate action
8.8. Recommended mitigation measures for reducing the key Potential impacts from Acid
Sulfate Soils
8.8.1. Requirement of an Acid Sulfate Soil Management Plan
The Plan should be based on the acid sulfate soil mitigation principles set out in the
Management Guidelines of the acid sulfate soil Manual. The plan should provide a framework
for the on-going management and monitoring of the impacts throughout the construction phase
of the SROP Ph IV . An acid sulfate soil management plan is a fundamental component of any
proposal application. The approval authority should assess the adequacy of the management plan
before approving a development application, a license or a lease, and should require the
implementation of the plan as a condition of approval.
The acid sulfate soil management plan should consider both the on-site and off-site impacts of
the disturbance of the soil, with any acid leachate being managed in a coordinated and pro-active
manner. The acid sulfate soil management strategy should be integrated into the design, layout
and engineering of each component of the proposal and the procedures and schedules of the
construction phase of the SROP Ph IV works. Where practicable, the proposal should be staged
so that the area disturbed at any one time is restricted, so that any potential impact can be limited
and easily managed. This is particularly important when disturbing acid sulfate soils near water
bodies or wetlands. The plan should also provide a description of the contingency procedures to
be implemented at the site if the management procedures prove to be unsuccessful and acid
leachate problems occur. The plan should demonstrate how these contingency strategies could
be integrated into the procedures and schedules of the off shore construction phase of the SROP
Ph IV .
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The acid sulfate soil management plan should be developed in consultation with relevant
government agencies. To develop appropriate management strategies, it may be necessary to
consider other environmental issues such as hydrology, aquatic and coastal ecology, social
issues and economic factors. It is important to collaborate with consultants preparing the
assessment of these other issues so that their assessment considers the impact from the
disturbance of acid sulfate soils and the management strategy for acid sulfate soils considers
other relevant environmental factors.
8.9. Recommended mitigation measures for reducing the key Potential impacts on
Terrestrial and Coastal Ecology
Vegetation clearance is to be limited to the required footprint for the Project. Vehicle
movements and equipment and material storage in any vegetated areas outside of the SROP Ph
IV project area is to be avoided where possible; Habitat offset measures should be designed and
implemented locally of an equivalent area destroyed during construction phase of the proposal;
Disturbance of land surface should be minimized, including restricting traffic to defined access
tracks and minimizing movement of vehicles and construction plant in areas not subject to
disturbance by construction activity; The Contractor;DHIC should use locally indigenous plant
species in landscaping works at the SROP Ph IV site; SWCC should protect remaining
vegetation within and immediately surrounding the SROP Ph IV site from grazing through
appropriate fencing; If a threatened species is encountered on site, all nearby construction
activity should cease and the site supervisor notified. No further work should continue in the
vicinity of the sighting until a qualified biologist carries out a field assessment.
No attempts should be made by site personnel to capture, harm or disturb the animal/s;
Appropriate waste storage to limit the potential proliferation of non-desirable fauna such as rats
and flies; and Implementing the air quality and noise measures previously described will also
minimize impacts on terrestrial ecology.
Recommended mitigation measures for reducing the key Potential impacts on the
Terrestrial & Coastal Flora and Fauna during construction phase
Following mitigation measures are recommended to mitigate impact on the Terrestrial and
Coastal Flora and Fauna:
• All earthworks vehicles will be washed down or driven over shakers to remove any seeds
of weed species prior to coming onto the site;
________________________________________________________________________________________________ 236
• Disturbance of land surface should be minimized, including restricting traffic to defined

access tracks and minimizing movement of vehicles and construction plant in areas not
subject to disturbance by construction activity;
• Appropriate waste storage to limit the potential proliferation of non-desirable fauna such
as rats and flies;
• Plants will be removed, collected and stored until disposing of them under GAMEP
guidelines; and
• Implement the air quality and noise impact mitigation measures identified under Air
Quality and Noise.
8.10. Recommended mitigation measures for reducing the key Potential impacts on Marine
Ecology
8.10.1. To mitigate impacts during construction Phase
The use of favorable rock material or pieces of rock armor that encourage the regeneration of
corals (eg. contain limestone); Maintain good ambient water quality (including sedimentation
controls, use of sediment ponds to collect storm water runoff, use of settling ponds for
Reclaimed material, wastewater/storm water management and prevention, and management of
spills and leaks); Timing of marine works to coincide to reduce overall impact of marine works
eg. Commence dredging works during natural periods of elevated sediment suspension, and
concentrate efforts during the ebb tide to maximize potential dilution; Use of appropriate storm
water control measures such as the diversion of overland flow around work areas, the
progressive stabilization of disturbed areas, and the use of sediment ponds to collect storm
water; During off shore construction works of SRP Ph IV area may be visited by threatened
species such as the Shark or similar sensitive species such as the Spinner dolphin. If a threatened
species is encountered on site, a record of the encounter should be made and all nearby
construction or operational activity should cease and the site supervisor notified.
Recommended mitigation measures for reducing the key Potential impacts on the Marine
Flora and Fauna during construction phase
Following mitigation measures are recommended to mitigate effect on the Marine Flora and
Fauna:
• Implement the marine water quality impact mitigation measures as previously presented ;
• Design and implement a sediment sampling and analysis program to determine the
existence and concentration of potential anthropogenic and natural sources of
contamination in areas proposed for dredging;
________________________________________________________________________________________________ 237
• If a sediment sampling and analysis program identifies levels of contamination beyond

acceptable international standards for ocean disposal, investigate economically viable
options to manage disposal of dredge spoil;
• Investigate locations for an appropriate spoil disposal ground including:
o A benthic infauna and epibenthic habitat survey to confirm the nature of the
seabed habitat and thus avoid sediment deposition on benthic and epibenthic
communities.
• Develop and implement a marine ecology and water quality monitoring program for the
construction phase of the SROP Ph IV.
8.10.2. To mitigate impacts during Operation Phase
Regulated coastal developments for tourism and urban expansion between countries including
socio and environmental impact studies for proposed projects; establish a biologically
interconnected network of reserves to maintain species viability. The coral reefs within the
SROP Ph IV site are situated adjacent to a marine system. As such, all endeavors should be
made to preserve the long term integrity of the site and it’s biodiversity; Implement effective
regulation of fishing in the vicinity of the proposed SROP Ph IV , such as the establishment of
‘no take’ zones for security and environmental advance; and Implement obligations under
regional and international conventions.
8.10.3. To mitigate impacts on Coral Reefs

Best technical mitigation practices include, for instance, the proper type of dredging equipment,
control over leakage, sediment spill and propeller wash, the use of an environmental valve,
relocating the dredger when necessary and conforming to environmental “windows”.
Rehabilitation measures may include the transplantation of coral colonies or fragments as
mentioned above. In all cases when dredging near Coral Reefs, an Environmental Management
and Monitoring Plan should be developed and implemented. A detailed mitigation plan also
discuss on a separate document as Part III Construction Environmental Management Plan & Part
V Marine Survey Report of SROP Ph IV .
8.10.4 Infauna Communities

The losses underneath the project footprint will be permanent and unlikely to be able to
regenerate. Indirect impacts could occur due to alteration of sediment grain sizes and quality
leading to changes in community structure. Statistical analysis of infauna samples to date
indicates that there is no significant difference between the infaunal communities associated
with different grain sizes, and that the communities appear to be fairly cosmopolitan in structure.
The infaunal communities are more susceptible to disturbance. Surface sediments will be
________________________________________________________________________________________________ 238
removed during the dredging operation and with them the infaunal communities. Consequently,
this impact is considered to be adverse, minor and therefore not significant in the construction
phase. No further mitigation is required.
8.11. Recommended mitigation measures for reducing the key Potential impacts from
Traffic & Transport at SROP Ph IV
8.11.1. To mitigate impacts during construction Phase

Transport routes for all construction vehicles to use main roads and avoid traveling through
residential areas where possible; Drivers employed are to possess appropriate licensing and to
have undertaken driver training; and Provision of shared worker’s transport such as buses from
workers accommodation to the SROP Ph IV site. Alternatively, the worker’s accommodation is
to be located to allow workers to walk to the SROP Ph IV site; Clearly identify truck routes for
heavy vehicles (trucks and buses) entering and traveling within the SROP Ph IV site; Limit
vehicle speed on site roads to 15 km/h through the installation of warning signs and speed limit
signs; Provision of appropriate lighting on site roads and in parking areas; and All vehicles
should sign in and out of the Project site so that vehicle numbers can be monitored.
8.11.2. To mitigate impacts during operation Phase

installation of intake and outfall pipelines for SROP Ph IV completes there are no issues of
traffic and transport exists at SROP Ph IV off shore .Hence no mitigation is required.
8.12. Waste Management

8.13. Visual Impacts

To address potential impacts to the visual, the following mitigation measures should be
implemented: Inclusion of landscaping, including landscaped earth mounds, along perimeter
fencing and within the SROP Ph IV site should be considered where practical. Local flora
species should be used where appropriate; Buildings within the SROP Ph IV area should use
colors and materials consistent with the existing visual environment and minimize potential for
reflection; Earthworks should be limited to the minimum area required for construction of the
off shore construction works of Shoaiba RO Plant Phase IV Project so that existing
topographical features can be retained and screen the SROP Ph IV site where possible; and
Buildings are to be of a low height maximum two storeys to maintain existing visual corridors.
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8.13.1. Local Regulations

The regulatory setting is one indication of visual sensitivity. Where aesthetic values are
protected by laws, ordinances, regulations, and standards , or are otherwise recognized in public
policies and objectives, such views are treated as highly sensitive. Also, whether or not a visual
impact is significant partly depends on whether it is consistent with the laws, ordinances,
regulations, and standards supporting planning policies and objectives applicable to the
protection of visual resources. Included are standards for lighting that address the control of
offsite spillage of light and glare. The evaluation addresses whether the impact specifically
violates laws, ordinances, and regulations; fails to meet specific standards; or is otherwise
substantially inconsistent with overarching policies and objectives.
8.14. Recommended mitigation measures for reducing the key Potential impacts on Social
and Economic aspects
To mitigate effects on Socio economic aspects
Saudi nationals should be employed during the construction and operation phases wherever
practicable. Saudi companies should be contracted to supply construction and services wherever
practicable; The air quality, noise, traffic and visual impact mitigation measures previously
described should be implemented to minimize environmental impacts on nearby residents;
Consultation should be undertaken with existing fishing and other smaller maritime operations
that currently utilize the waters that include and surround the SROP Ph IV site so that they are
aware of access restrictions and other issues;
Following mitigation measures are recommended to mitigate effect on the Social Environment:
• To compensate the impact of SROP Ph IV construction on local fishery if any.
8.15. Summary of Mitigation Measures

Following is the summary of the significant impacts identified and the mitigation measures
proposed. Significant impacts are considered to be those for which 'impact significance' prior to
mitigation was assessed as being of 'minor' significance or greater, prior to any mitigation being
proposed. Impacts which are anticipated to be beneficial have also been included in the
following Table below. Through applying all the mitigation measures and the Environmental
Monitoring Plan (EMP) and the reporting procedure throughout the dredging and disposal
activities, the proposed marine dredging activities is anticipated to have a controlled and
minimum impact on the marine environment.
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Table 8.2: Summary of the environmental issues of ESIA study of trenching of sea bed for
installation of intake and outfall channels for SROP Ph IV Project (as per GAMEP / World
Bank / EP II / IFC standards) and recommended mitigation measures
Residual
Environmenta Source of Description Recommended Mitigation
Impact
l Issue Impact of Impact Measure
Significance
To describe
Effects to the
and assess the
aesthetics of
existing
the area and The Dredging impacts of SROP Ph
character and
Landscape & impacts IV Intake outfall pipeline channel
visual Negligible
Visual landscape trenching will not be a threat to any
resources of
during sensitive receptors
the application
dredging
site and its
works.
surrounding.
Transport
during
Likely to be a Location and design of temporary,
dredging and
particular construction access points to
pipeline
problem in the minimize traffic interruptions. In
installation
early stages of any case the construction will be
mainly to
Transport during prior to any residential or Minor
movement of
excavation commercial occupation.
vehicle inflow
and pipe Re -use excavated material on-site
& outflow for
installation where possible to minimize vehicle
transportation
works works. movements.
of dredged
material
During
dredging there
will be
Impacts of
disturbance to
noise and Can be minimized through better
surrounding
vibration construction management plan.
Noise area - the Negligible
from dredging Provide acoustic enclosures for
workers and
equipment rotating equipment where required.
other users,
and vehicles.
particularly at
night, if they
work at night.
Potential
contamination
of water by Construction Environmental
Impacts of soil Management Plan ,Dredging
Hydrogeology
dredging on contaminants Environmental Management
and surface Minor
surface water or hazardous measures e.g. Develop temporary
hydrology
resources. substances drainage system within the site
during the during the dredging.
dredging
activities.
Impact on As a part of the marine monitoring
Effect on
SROP Ph IV program of the area that would be
water quality
off shore an integral part of the other future Minor
Ecology and marine
construction developments affecting the marine Moderate
biota
works, such as environment. it is suggested a
Sea bed sampling, data collection and
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Residual
Impact
Significance
dredging the assessment regime of seasonal
Pipeline trench nature is planned to monitor
/ channel, ecological impacts resulting from
the project extend to not only
around the SROP Ph IV site, with
specific reference to reef
assemblages, larvae, juvenile fish
an Invertebrates and other controls
such as the monitoring the
distribution and mortality of
planktonic larvae;
Impacts of General Can be controlled through
dust during nuisance and construction management plan.
dredging and health impacts
transportation Ensure all machinery is properly
of dredging Although not maintained.
material part of this
ESIA study it Ensure site workers are educated
No significant is worth and trained of site safety. Negligible.
emissions mentioning
except from that In Precautions including use of safety
vehicles, general, equipment.
dredging particulates,
equipment and sulphur Ensure site traffic is controlled
plants dioxide and through access roads and road
nitrogen management.
oxides are of Implementation of dust
Air Quality major management strategies during
significance construction.
with respect Water will be sprayed by high Minor
to air pressure water hoses during dust
pollution generating construction activities
from like excavation, material handling,
construction etc to suppress dust. Monitoring
activities The following monitoring schedule
which are run is suggested to aim at regular and
on heavy fuel systematic study of metrological
oil. conditions at the site.
Wind anemometer, wind direction
finder, wet and dry bulb,
thermometer, pressure gauge and
rainfall gauge for metrological
studies.
Waste (Solid Minimizing and reducing waste

& Liquid) Waste that during construction stage is a key
Solid Generated may become priority and the following good site
waste from hazardous if practice measures shall be
dredging and not collected implemented: Moderate
pipeline and processed
installation & properly For the site construction and the
filling works. during management of the soil removed for
construction the foundation consideration should
________________________________________________________________________________________________ 242
Residual
Impact
Significance
be made for options for the reuse.
All construction personnel
including sub-contractors should be
briefed through toolbox talks
regarding the importance of
Liquid controlling all construction
activities to ensure no spill offs or
wind borne litter enters the marine
environment. Moderate
Discharges to water
Fuels, oils and chemicals should be

stored in appropriate containers
within secure bunded compound
constructed of an impermeable
hard-standing. In addition,
appropriate spill-kits should be
retained in the vicinity of the
storage areas.
All vehicle/plant re-fuelling should

be supervised in a designated area.
A monitoring program should be

developed and implemented to
refine and confirm modeling
predictions with respect to water
quality and ecological impacts.
An assessment of cleaning
chemicals should be undertaken to
minimize acute toxicity effects;
Socio- Improved Positive
None Positive
Economic facilities. Impacts
Impacts of
development
on any
Archaeology
existing No resources
and cultural None Negligible
archaeological are present
heritage
or cultural
resources at
the site.
Risks to Potential risks Require a code of construction Negligible
workers from from practice to be followed by
unsafe accidents or contractors.
construction occupational Specify use of non-toxic materials
Health and practices. hazards such where possible.
Safety as noise or All materials to be used in
handling of accordance with manufacturer's or
Impacts of hazardous legislative Safety instructions.
hazardous substances
substances use Safe disposal of waste or unused
________________________________________________________________________________________________ 243
Residual
Impact
Significance
and disposal materials.
during
construction Minor
To ensure that the framework of an
Possible HSE management system is put in
impacts on place prior to the operation of the
workers, facility.
Health and neighbors,
occupational water
safety risks for resources or To ensure that all staff are trained in
the operation the wider the plant (in particular the
of the project environment. contractors should ensure the
site. Health and training program is included as part
safety risks of the commissioning and handover
during of the project).
operation of
the facility.
Potential The
construction assessment is
impacts based
associated primarily a
Terrestrial
with the survey of the Can be mitigated through
Flora & Negligible
construction of terrestrial implementation of CEMP
Fauna
SROP Ph IV floral and
project fauna
community in
the area
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SECTION 9: ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT &

MONITORING PLAN
________________________________________________________________________________________________ 245
SECTION 9: ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT & MONITORING PLAN

9.1 Introduction
This Environmental Management and Monitoring Plan document has been prepared as a part of
the off shore Environmental and Social Impact assessment (ESIA) for the Shoaiba RO Plant
Phase IV Project (SROP Ph IV ) off shore construction works such as trenching of sea bed for
the installation of intake and out fall pipes . This document comprises the Environmental
Management and Monitoring Plan (EMMP) for the off shore construction works of the SROP
Ph IV wherein broad purpose is to provide a potential framework within a comprehensive
package of measures to avoid, minimize and mitigate potentially adverse environmental impacts
are throughout the off shore construction phase .A separate site specific Construction
Environmental Management Plan (CEMP) and Dredging Environmental Management
Plan(DEMP) has been prepared by Environmental Balance Establishment and submitted as Part
3& 4 of this ESIA respectively.
The main purpose of this EMMP is to:
• Support the management bodies such as SWCC and DHIC to minimize environmental
effects;
• Document environmental concerns and appropriate protection measures; and
• Provide instructions to relevant project personnel regarding procedures for protecting the
environment and minimizing environmental effects, thereby supporting the SROP Ph IV
project goal of least incidents.
This Environmental Management and Monitoring Plan (EMMP) is an implementation plan
consisting of mitigation measures, monitoring program and institutional measures to be adopted
during the construction and operation phases to minimize the environmental and social impacts.
In this chapter, the EMMP is formulated for Shoaiba RO Plant Phase IV Project which has
been presented. The EMMP would be a dynamic document, which would be reviewed
periodically and updated for improvements based on the Environmental Monitoring Program.
This EMMP identifies the environmental requirements for all activities associated with the off
shore construction works of the Shoaiba RO Plant Phase IV Project. It also provides
implementation guidelines to ensure compliance with the environmental recommendations as
defined in the Environmental and Social Impact Assessment.
The EMMP is intended to be a practical document which clearly outlines the mitigation
measures to be implemented by project employees during the construction and operation phase
in order to protect the environment and minimize potentially adverse effects. The EMMP is the
principle medium for ensuring that mitigation is implemented as directed by all applicable
________________________________________________________________________________________________ 246
regulatory requirements and provides an opportunity to outline responsible management

practices.
9.2 Mitigation Measures during Construction Phase
Land-side Activities
A. Development of External Infrastructure
No significant environmental and social impacts are anticipated due to the development of the
external infrastructure except for mild impacts on air quality and increase in noise levels, which
are likely due to the construction of the road connections to the SROP Ph IV Project Coastal
areas. Necessary measures like sprinkling of water (thrice a day) on unpaved sections, locating
asphalt yards away from the habitations and using controlled blasting techniques will be adopted
to reduce the impacts.
B. Infrastructure Development
The Infrastructure development will involve reclaiming and leveling of the area, internal roads,
utilities and services, buildings, etc. These activities would involve large scale movement of
materials such as cement, steel, and sand, etc. thereby causing disturbance to the adjoining
communities. The following measures would be adhered during the development works:
• The dredging material will be used for filling. If any surplus material will be dispersed off
in the approved disposal area. Hence no disposal should be required into the sea.
• Low noise equipment and mufflers/ enclosures would be used to limit excess noise levels.
The equipment to be used in the construction works will be periodically maintained and all
moving parts will be frequently oiled/ greased to reduce noise generation. Further, the
movement of material during non-peak hours will be regulated.
• Measures such as sprinkling of water to contain dust levels during construction works and
also along the unpaved sections of the access roads leading to the SROP Ph IV Marine
construction site will be adopted.
• Personal Protection Equipment (PPE) such as earmuffs, protective clothing, helmets,
goggles, shoes, gloves, etc. to the operation personnel involved in pile driving operations
will be provided.
• Environmental awareness program to the personnel involved in the development works will
be provided.
Marine-side Activities
(a) Dredging/Trenching of Sea bed for the installation of intake and outfall pipes
The off shore construction of SROP Ph IV will require significant volume of construction
materials which will be procured and transported to the SROP Ph IV site. This activity will
________________________________________________________________________________________________ 247
increase the traffic along access roads leading to the part and will result in impacts on air quality
and noise levels. On the marine side, the trenching of Sea bed for the installation of intake and
outfall pipes would exert impacts on the marine water quality and transportation of materials
would also results in impacts on air quality and noise levels.
The measures proposed to be adhered during the trenching of Sea bed for the installation of
intake and outfall pipes and the installation of pipelines for mitigating the impacts are presented
below:
• Consultations will be initiated with the concerned government authorities, while selecting
the materials required for the trenching of Sea bed for the installation of intake and outfall
pipes . Also, while selecting the sites the land use pattern around the sites would be taken
into consideration.
• The material transportation plan shall be prepared prior to the commencement of the
process. The plan focussed on the locations, surrounding land use, haulage roads,
habitations & settlements and proposed environmental monitoring program for mitigation
of impacts from dust pollutions, water stagnation, noise pollution, etc.
• Interaction with fishing community through the fishing department / community leaders
will be initiated about the marker buoys/ signboards indicating areas of operation so that
they may avoid such areas limited to the construction period.
• All vehicles used in construction will be checked for valid Pollution Under Control
certificates. A mobile task force should be formed in coordination with local Road
Transport Authority, Shoaiba /Jeddah to check the compliance of vehicle emissions to
norms/ standards periodically during construction.
• Extreme precaution has to be taken during the planning stage to prevent/minimize
disturbance to adjacent properties/ habitations. If warranted, the same would be restored
under consent from the affected people.
• Ambient Air and Noise Levels will be monitored during the off shore construction phase.
• Prior to commencement of trenching of Sea bed for the installation of intake and outfall
pipes , a Dredging Management Program (Submitted as Part IV) to implemented, which
would include details pertaining to the dredging method, quantity, disposal method, time
of dredging, etc. A method statement for trenching of Sea bed for the installation of intake
and outfall pipes should be submitted to SWCC and GAMEP and obtain their approval.
• DHIC should be ensured that the barges/ workboats have slop tanks for collection of
liquid/ solid waste generated on board and that it is transferred on shore for treatment and
________________________________________________________________________________________________ 248
disposal regularly. No wastes will be discharged into the sea throughout the dredging
period.
• DHIC should take proper care while fuelling of barges, dredgers, workboats, etc. to
prevent spillage of diesel, oil, lubes, etc.
• Water quality monitoring program with special emphasis on turbidity and DO should be
initiated prior to the commencement of operations and would continue throughout the
dredging period. Marine water quality would be monitored on daily basis and would cover
important physico-chemical and biological parameters. Turbidity and DO should be
monitored covering the complete working duration.
• DHIC should be ensured that the most suitable dredging equipment is deployed to
minimize the suspension of fine sediments at the dredge site. The turbidity at the dredged
site would also be minimized through adoption of less intrusive dredging techniques along
with timing of the dredging activity (restrict in sensitive periods).
• The DHIC's Contractors dredging and disposal works should be monitored for compliance
with the proposed mitigation measures.
• A post dredging monitoring program should be prepared to assess the effect of dredging
and disposal on marine ecology.
• Trenching of Sea bed for the installation of intake and outfall pipes and filling areas may
cause imbalance in sand movement along the coast resulting in accretion on the south side
and erosion on the north side. Therefore, to protect the coastline a Littoral Drift
Management scheme should be developed.
Hazardous Material Storage
Material such as welding gas, fuel for operation of tugs, barges, paints, etc. would be stored in
designated places as per the norms specified for Industrial Safety (GAMEP). The storage areas
would be barricaded by providing a compound wall in order to restrict the movement of local
communities. Preventive measures for potential fire hazards will be undertaken and requisite fire
detection and firefighting facilities will be provided including adequate water storage.
Worker Camps
There will be a requirement of skilled and unskilled labour during the off shore construction
works of SROP Ph IV Project. Also, some of the works will be sub contracted out. As the off
shore construction period of SROP Ph IV is scheduled for around 20 months, the worker camps
will be set up for unskilled laborers in the vicinity of the SROP Ph IV site. The following
aspects would be taken into consideration before setting up the worker camps:
• The worker camps would not be set-up close to the nearby habitations.
________________________________________________________________________________________________ 249
• The camps would be adequately equipped with all the necessary facilities such as water
supply, power supply, wastewater collection, solid waste collection and sanitation.
• The domestic wastes generated from the camps would be disposed at approved disposal
sites.
• No bore wells would be sunk for the drinking water requirements.
• Periodic health check-ups will be undertaken for early detection and control of
communicable diseases.
• Medical facilities including first-aid will be available in the workers camp for attending
to injured workers.
Induced Development
The construction phase of trenching of Sea bed for the installation of intake and outfall pipes
will result in induced development through development of slums, make shift commercial
establishments indirectly affecting the neighbouring communities and also contributing to the
haphazard growth. It is suggested that the Planning Authorities of the Region should monitor
such type of developments during the construction phase in consultation with Saline Water
Conversion Corporation (SWCC). Further, the development of the trenching works and
associated effects should be informed in the SWCC.
9.3. Mitigation Measures during Operation Phase of SROP Ph IV
Once the trenching of Sea bed for the installation of intake and outfall pipes is completed the
impacts are expected to be minimum .How ever during maintenance works of the pipelines
periodic monitoring is required,
Marine Water Pollution Control
Water pollution is one of the prime issues during the operation phase. The sources of water
pollution are:
 Clogging of pipes /jack wells
 Jelly fish holding tank
 Waste water
 Runoffs containing oil spills
 Thermal Discharges from the outfall of nearby Power Plant
 Sewage and Brine from nearby areas
 Accidental spills
To mitigate the impacts due to marine water pollution, the following measures would be
adopted:
________________________________________________________________________________________________ 250
• All the operational areas should be connected with a network of liquid waste collection
corridor comprising of storm water, oily wastes, and sewage collection pipelines.
• The berths should be designed sloping landward for collection of the runoffs into the
sewage collection networks.
• The residual water generated from the mechanical areas of the SROP Pl IV Plant should
be collected in the effluent network and further treated at the treatment plant.
• Ships/ vessels near to SROP Ph IV should not be permitted to dump the wastes/ bilge
water during the construction phase.
• SWCC/DHIC should be equipped with all modern pollution control mechanisms to
prevent and contain marine pollution from the SROP Ph IV off shore operational areas.
Pollution control facilities should be designed with a possibility of recycling the wastes,
especially the treated effluents.
• Measures should be taken to contain, control and recover the accidental spills of fuel and
wastes
• A dedicated Sewage Treatment Plant (STP) should be constructed as part of SROP Ph IV
development for treating the wastewater generated in the camp and the treated
wastewater will be reused in water sprinkling for dust suppression and in green belt areas
/ landscaping.
Green Belt Development
• Greenbelt should be developed as per Standard Industrial Practices. It should commence
prior to commencement of construction.
• Green belt development is proposed along the entire boundary of SROP Ph IV Project. In
addition, tree cover will be developed around the storage areas. One meter tall saplings
can be used in green belt development.
• The tree species to be used should be in line with local coastal ecology.
• The treated wastewater should be reused in the green belt areas to reduce the water
requirements.
Socio-Economic Aspects
The operation of the SROP Ph IV will exert changes in the land use in the surroundings through
population influx and induced development resulting due to creation of employment potential
and development of commercial establishments. This activity if not planned and developed will
create chaos and will affect the integrity of the area.
The following measures should be taken into consideration, which will be useful in restricting
the development:
________________________________________________________________________________________________ 251
• The planning authorities of the region have already been apprised about the SROP Ph IV
development. Development of the SROP area should be included in the Shoaiba
Industrial development area to ensure that unauthorized developments do not occur in
the vicinity of the SROP Ph IV .
• SWCC , in consultation with the local authorities, should monitor all the developments
in and around the SROP complex .
Training of Personnel
The personnel involved in the operation of SROP Ph IV would be trained for identification of
various hazards, methods to combat, and responsiveness to emergency preparedness, etc.
9.4 Environmental Health, Safety and Emergency Response
Integrated Safety, Health, Environmental (HSE) Management System
An Integrated - Health Safety-Environmental Management System (HSEMS) is required for the
Construction and operational phase of the SROP Ph IV project .The purpose of this management
system would be to ensure Safety, Health and Environmental risks of the project activities are
identified and addressed early in the project.
The HSEMS may be based on the ‘Plan-Do-Check-Act’ model for business management
systems. There are several international standards for management systems. The most
commonly applied standards are the ISO 9001:2000 Quality Management System (QMS)
standard, the ISO 14001:2004 Environmental Management System (EMS) standard and the
Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) 18001:2007 Occupational Health and
Safety Management System standard which are based on the ‘Plan-Do- Check-Act’ model
described below:
1. Top Management Commitment demonstrated by a Policy Statement reflecting the
Organization’s commitment
2. Planning – key elements include - identifying legal and other requirements, identifying and
evaluation environmental aspects, impacts occupational hazards, etc;
3. Implementation – key elements include – organizational structure, training, documentation
and document control, operational control, emergency preparedness;
4. Checking – key elements include – performance monitoring and measurement, incident
reporting, nonconformance, corrective and preventive actions, internal audit and record control;
and
5. Acting – Management Reviews.
The specific elements for a HSEMS include the elements described below: Policy Statement
• Reference Standards: ISO 14001:2004 Clause 4.2 and OSHA 18001:2007 Clause 4.2
________________________________________________________________________________________________ 252
• Key Elements of the Policy Statement:

o Commitment to comply with applicable regulations and other requirements;
o Commitment to pollution prevention and prevention of injury and ill health;
o Commitment to providing a safe work environment;
o Commitment to continual improvement;
o Frame work for Objectives, Targets and Programmes;
o Applicable to all employees and contracted employees;
o Available to the public
Environmental Aspects, Hazard Identification and Risk Assessment
• Reference Standards: ISO 14001:2004 Clause 4.3.1 and OSHA 18001:2007 Clause 4.3.1
• Key Elements:
o Identification and evaluation of environmental aspects and impacts of activities
and products;
o Identification of occupational hazards and determination of associated risks.
Note: This ESIA report may be considered an input for this element.
Legal and Other Requirements
• Key Elements:
o Identification of Environmental, Social and Occupational Health and Safety
related Legal and other requirements applicable to the project
Objectives, Targets and Programmes
• Reference Standards: ISO 14001:2004 Clause 4.3.3 and OSHA 18001:2007 Clause 4.3
• Key Elements:
o Objectives, Targets and Programmes for Social and Environmental Performance
o The objectives maybe based on the outcomes of the aspect and impact evaluation
and occupational hazard assessments
Organizational Structure
• Key Elements:
o Management Representative (Member of the Top Management) for overseeing
the implementation of the SHEMS
o Department level coordinators and facilitators for the SHEMS
Training and Competence
________________________________________________________________________________________________ 253
• Key Elements:
o Identification of training needs for personnel whose activities may contribute to
significant environmental aspects and impacts.
o Identification of training needs for personnel whose work involves high
occupational risks.
o Provision of training.
o Assessment of competence.
Communication and Consultation
• Key Elements:
o Identification and evaluation of external and internal communication
requirements.
o Documentation of communications.
o Grievance Management System
Documentation and Document Control
• Reference Standards: ISO 14001:2004 Clause 4.4.4 and 4.4.5 and OSHA 18001:2007
Clause 4.4.4 and 4.4.5
• Key Elements:
o SHEMS Manual describing the main elements.
o Document control procedure
Operational Control
• Key Elements:
o Operational control procedures for activities which contribute to significant
environmental aspects and impacts.
o Operational control procedures for high occupational risk activities.
Emergency Preparedness and Response
• Reference Standards: ISO 14001:2004 Clause 4.4.7 and OSHA 18001:2007
• Key Elements:
o Emergency Response Plan for environmental emergency situations.
o Emergency Response Plan for safety and health emergency situations.
Performance Monitoring and Measurement
• Key Elements:
________________________________________________________________________________________________ 254
o Environmental Monitoring
o Health and Safety Monitoring
o Monitoring programmes to be based on this ESIA report and the outcomes of the
environmental aspects and impacts evaluation and occupational health and safety
hazard and risk assessment.
o Periodic Regulatory Compliance evaluation
Evaluation of Compliance
• Key Elements:
o Evaluation of compliance with applicable legal requirements (environmental and
OH&S)
o Evaluation of compliance with other requirements to which the organization
subscribes to
Incident, Accidents, Non Conformance, Corrective and Preventive Actions
• Key Elements:
o Incident and Accident reporting and investigation system
o Near Miss reporting and investigation system
o Non Conformance reporting system
o Root Cause Analysis
o Corrective Actions
o Preventive Actions
Records Management
• Key Elements:
o Record Control Procedure
Audit
• Key Elements:
o Periodic HSE Management System audits (Could include third party certification
assessments)
Management Review
• Reference Standards: ISO 14001:2004 Clause 4.6 and OSHA 18001:2007 Clause 4.6
• Key Elements:
________________________________________________________________________________________________ 255
o Top Management involvement

o SHEMS performance review
o Resource requirements
o Decisions to improve the effectiveness of the HSE Management System
9.5. Environmental Performance
The SWCC (proponent of SROP Ph IV) has a remit to design, construct and operate the
proposed SROP Ph IV in accordance with the applicable environmental laws and standards. In
order to ensure compliance with environmental legislation, a comprehensive Construction
Environmental Management Plan (CEMP) should be developed and an Environmental
Management System (EMS) implemented, to manage environmental risks during construction
and operational phases respectively for the off shore works of SROP Ph IV project.
The key benefits of both a CEMP and an EMS are that they should:
• Establish a baseline against which environmental performance can be assessed;
• Provide a system for the formal identification of potential environmental impacts
associated with construction and operational processes;
• Enable the identification of objectives and targets; &
• Provide a framework for the monitoring and measurement of performance and ultimately
a progression towards continual environmental improvement.
Construction Phase – Construction Environmental Management Plan (CEMP)
This Construction Environmental Management Plan has been prepared (Part 3 of this ESIA) to
ensure that the potential impacts that may arise from the off shore construction works of the
SROP Ph IV project are actively managed and minimized. The actions set out in this framework
are intended to act as a guide and a tool for anticipating, recording and ameliorating any impacts
that may arise.
It is anticipated that the Construction Management Plan will evolve as the project progresses to
ensure that its content reflects the current construction program and shall be discussed with
GAMEP.
The principle requirement of the Environmental Management Plan for the off shore construction
Phase of the SROP Ph IV project is to provide a management framework to address all the
environmental aspects identified for the construction of the proposed off shore works of SROP
Ph IV project.
Environmental Roles and Responsibilities of the Environmental Coordinator
The Environmental Coordinator is responsible for all environmental activities on the project and
will report to the SWCC's Project Director for the site. The duties involve the following:
________________________________________________________________________________________________ 256
• Overall management of the environmental component of the SROP Ph IV project;

• Manage day to day activities to ensure significant environmental effects are avoided;
• Review and update the Site Construction Environmental Management Plan;
• To act as the main point of contact between the regulator (GAMEP) and the project on
environmental issues;
• To act as the main point of contact between the local population and the project;
• Development and delivery of environmental training (induction and toolbox talks) for
site personnel and sub-contractors;
• Ensure Best Practice is promoted at all times;
• Assisting with the development of procedures which highlight the emergency response to
environmental incidents;
• Management of the monitoring program, including noise, dust and water quality; and
• Environmental incident monitoring and reporting.
Assessment of Significant Environmental Aspects
The environmental aspects identified should be evaluated in terms of significance to ensure that
resources are targeted appropriately and effectively.
The environmental aspects determined to be of most significance are the activities of the project
that require managing and should be subject to improvement in performance.
An Environmental Aspects Register should be developed and reviewed on a monthly basis and
will be structured in the following way.
Project Specific Measures
Consideration and Responsibility
All works should be carried out with positive consideration towards the surrounding worker
housing (labour camps) and the environment. Works that may cause an impact to neighboring
receptor sites shall be advertised through a mechanism to be agreed with GAMEP.
Upon agreement of the advertising mechanism, this off shore Construction Environmental
Management Plan shall be updated to include the specific mechanism.
The contractor shall ensure that all site personnel, specialist sub-contractors, delivery drivers and
any other persons working on or visiting the site fully understand and implement the obligations
of the off shore Construction Environmental Management Plan and monitor their compliance
with CEMP. This will be achieved by including the Construction Environmental Management
Plan and its obligations in the safety induction that everyone working on site should attend. The
inductees will be required to sign a statement stating that they have understood and will abide by
the content of the off shore Construction Environmental Management Plan.
________________________________________________________________________________________________ 257
Summary of Best practices for the construction an operation phase of the SROP Ph IV Project is
presented in the following tables.
Table 9.12: Best Practice Summary for Construction Phase
Ordering Delivery
Avoid:- Avoid:
• Over ordering (order ‘just on time’) • Damage during unloading
• Ordering standard lengths rather than • Delivery to inappropriate areas of the site
• lengths required (e.g. Plasterboard) • Accepting incorrect deliveries,
• Ordering for delivering at the wrong time • specification or quantity
• (update program regularly)
Storage Handling
Avoid: Avoid:
• Damage to materials from incorrect • Damage or spillage through incorrect or
storage repetitive handling
• Loss, theft or vandalism through secure
• storage and on-site security
Table 9.13: Off shore Construction Environmental Monitoring Plans

Issues/Concerns Management Measures Monitoring
Water Abstraction and Wastewater  Fuels, oils and chemicals should be Record water consumption
Discharges stored in appropriate containers on daily basis
Depletion of ground water resources within secure bonded compound Analysis of wastewater
and potential contamination of soil, constructed of an impermeable hard quality at least every month
surface and groundwater resources standing. In addition, appropriate to ensure compliance with
during construction spill-kits should be retained in the effluent quality standards of
vicinity of the storage areas; GAMEP
 All plants and construction
equipments should be regularly
maintained and appropriate drip-trays
should be located below mobile plant
such as generators;
 Washout from concrete mixing plant
or cleaning ready-mix concrete
Lorries is contaminated with cement
and therefore highly alkaline. This
should not be allowed to enter any
drainage channel and should be re-
used on site where possible; and
 All vehicle/plant re-fuelling should be
supervised in a designated area;
Air Quality  Finished ground/road surfaces should The placing of dust gauges
Dust emissions from construction be set down in line with the provided on the perimeter of the site.
work construction program to seal the Screening monitoring
ground to ensure that the generation through a visual inspection
of dust is kept to a minimum; of the site perimeter should
be carried out weekly to
 Surfaced and un-surfaced site access
check for dust deposition
roads should be kept in good order (evident as soiling and
and would be treated if practicable in marking) on vegetation,
windy conditions to minimize impact vehicles and other objects.
________________________________________________________________________________________________ 258
on worker housing receptors; Perspex screens should be

 On-site cement and concrete batching, placed at strategic positions
off site and should be
where required, would be undertaken
monitored before and
in suitable areas, with wind shielding during construction works
to avoid windblown dry cement; on a weekly basis, to give
 Stockpiles of soils and materials an indication of dust levels
should be located as far as possible above the norm in the
from sensitive properties (e.g. worker vicinity of sensitive
receptors.
housing), taking account of prevailing
wind directions and seasonal
variations in the prevailing wind and
transfer should be completed in a way
that minimizes the requirements to
deposit materials from height;
 Dust-suppressed tools should be used
for all operations and all construction
plant and equipment should be
maintained in good working order; &
 There should be no unauthorized
burning of materials on-site.
Marine Environment  No reduction in habitat values for Collect a minimum of 20
Dredging – trenching of Sea bed for significant species. Minimize loss of water and 10 sediment
the installation of intake and outfall significant species’ individuals. No samples at least once a
pipes, removal of coastal vegetation. month at pre-selected
Receiving water quality monitoring,  No surface disturbance of the dune locations (to be determined
transactional and mixing zone water system, beach and intertidal zone. No depending upon the severity
quality, biota and sediment measurable loss to the integrity of the and bathymetry)
monitoring coastal assets including the dune Analyze water and
system, beach and intertidal zone. semimetal sample for
 Minimize the impact on marine flora organic, inorganic, heavy
and fauna from construction metals and chlorine
activities. Limit impacts on ecology residuals
of continuous high relief reef. Conduct biological
Operation of SROP Ph IV monitoring and biodiversity
 Optimum residual chlorine in the analysis at least once a year
discharge water to minimize impact of coral reefs, mangroves
on biota and coral reefs and other biological species
in the region
 In order to avoid fouling into SROP
Ph IV intake and outfall jack wells , Monitor chlorine level at
sea water should be treated to remove regular interval using
floating and suspended materials monitors installed in the
system
Noise and Vibrations Potential construction noise impacts can be Noise monitoring should be
Noise disturbance at residential or minimized by the adoption of various good undertaken on a regular
site practices including: basis;
sensitive receptors in the immediate
 Where practical and where there is a All measured noise levels
vicinity of the SROP Ph IV .
positive environmental benefit, use should be recorded and
should be made of temporary spoil retained on-site for the
heaps to shield the surrounding duration of the off shore
receptors from the construction construction program.
works. For example, this may be
utilized during the earthworks and site
________________________________________________________________________________________________ 259
preparation phases of the works.

 All plant/construction equipment
items should be properly maintained
and operated in accordance with the
manufacturers’ recommendations, so
that excessive noise is minimized.
Noise caused by vibrating machinery
can be reduced by proper attention to
balancing.
 Plant known to emit noise strongly in
one direction should, where possible,
should be orientated so that the noise
is directed away from noise sensitive
areas;
 Acoustic covers should be kept closed
when engines are in use and idling.
The use of compressors that have
effective noise enclosures and are
designed to operate when their access
panels are closed is recommended;
 Stationary plant such as compressors
and generators should be positioned
away from sensitive locations within
the confines of the operational use of
the equipment;
 Materials should be lowered where
practicable and not dropped.
 Deliveries should be programmed to
arrive during daytime hours only and
care should be taken when unloading
vehicles to minimize noise. Delivery
vehicles should also be routed so as
minimize disturbance to local
residents and vehicles should be
prohibited from waiting within the
site with their engines running;
All employees and contractors will need to
be informed about the need to minimize
noise. As part of onsite training they will
be advised regularly of the following:
 The proper use and maintenance of
tools and equipment;
 The positioning of machinery on site
to reduce the emission of noise to the
neighborhood and to site personnel;
 Avoidance of unnecessary noise when
carrying out operations, and when
operating plant and equipment;
 Using and maintaining measures
adopted for noise control;
 By reporting defective noise control
equipment;
________________________________________________________________________________________________ 260
 Managers and supervisors

recognizing the need for employees to
make proper use of measure to
minimize noise.
Oil and Fuel Pollution  Prepare plans and procedures for Undertake regular checks
As fuel oil will be used for various proper storage and handling of oil preferably on a daily basis
plants and equipments, dredgers , products to ensure:
barges, vessels environmental  Install oil interceptors in all the storm  Implementation of oil
pollution due to oil leakages or water drainages around construction spillage prevention
spillages from bulk oil storage areas is sites plans
considered  Bund oil and lubricant holding tanks  Maintenance schedules
 Line oil store floors with epoxy and for equipment,
ensure that any drains flow to an transportation trucks
interceptor and oil interceptors is
implemented
 Regular inspection of
bulk oil storage areas
Solid and Liquid Waste Disposal Implementation of good site practices Regular inspection to ensure
consisting of: implementation of standard
 All construction personnel including waste management
sub-contractors should be briefed practices.
through toolbox talks regarding the Record the amount of waste
importance of minimizing, generated on daily basis and
segregating and recycling wastes disposal methods used.
during the construction process; Keep an inventory of waste
 Guidance should be provided on the generating in an electronic
segregation of certain waste streams data base
such as aggregates, excavated Develop proper collection
materials, metal, wood, cardboard and and storage program
polythene packaging waste;
 The objectives of the toolbox talks
should be to maximize opportunities
for recycling and minimize waste to
landfill; Deliveries to site should be
on a scheduled program to minimize
potential damage and wastage of
materials;
 Clearly labeled waste skips should be
provided at the site for the
segregation of waste streams for
recycling and for general waste to be
disposed of to landfill. The skips
should be stored in a secure location
on-site to prevent waste nuisance
issues arising;
 Construction materials should be
stored in a secure compound to
prevent the potential for vandalism
and theft of material;
 Wastes that cannot be recycled would
be removed from site by a licensed
________________________________________________________________________________________________ 261
waste contractor to an appropriate

licensed landfill facility in accordance
with applicable Saudi Arabian
law.(Approved by GAMEP)
Occupational Health and Safety Adhere to Safety Policy and Safe Work Regular inspection to ensure
Safety and well being of on-site Procedures for SROP Ph IV off shore implementation of site
personnel construction & operation that include: safety procedures
 Provision of health safety and welfare Weekly/Monthly safety
plans and procedures to workers on report forms to be prepared
site and submitted to
 Provision of and enforcement of use management
of PPE Register, investigate and
 Comply with the Safety Policy and address any public
complains related to the
Safe Working Procedures, Laws,
project
Regulation within the Kingdom of
Proper labeling for
Saudi Arabia. hazardous and risky
 Establish and monitor performance of locations in the plant and
Health and Safety Committee as per chemical storage area
the safety regulations Arrange training program at
 Restrict entry into SROP Ph IV site to least once a year on
occupational health and
authorized persons only
safety awareness
Monitor air quality at least
once a year for a minimum
of 1 hour sampling in
working places, fuel and
chemical storage area.
General Risks and Hazards  Draw up and enforce fire and oil spill Emergency Response Plans
Due to accidents, fire outbreaks, oil emergency response plans displayed in workers
spills and other emergencies  Inspect and properly maintain plant/ accessible areas
equipment and operation vehicles, Develop display posters and
ships/vessels/barges leaflets to bring awareness
 Arrange fire drills and other on safety among workers
emergency safety evacuation plan
Operational Phase – Environmental Management Plan (EMP)
The off shore maintenance (Construction of Intake and outfall pipelines ) of SROP Ph IV during
operation shall require implementing a comprehensive Management Plan that considers Health,
Safety and Environmental issues. The management plan will identify, monitor and control all
potential health, safety and environmental aspects associated with the operation of the site
works.
Table 9.14: Environmental Management Plan
Issues/Concerns Management Measures Monitoring
Water Abstraction and  Recycle and reuse wastewater where Analysis of Brine wastewater
Wastewater Discharges possible quality at least every month
Depletion of ground water resources  Monitor wastewater quality as per to ensure compliance with
and potential contamination of soil, GAMEP requirements effluent quality standards of
surface and groundwater resources GAMEP
Air Quality  Monitoring of ambient air quality on a Monitoring of ambient air
________________________________________________________________________________________________ 262
regular basis as per GAMEP quality at least once a year

Ambient air monitoring of SO2, requirements preferably on a regular basis.
NOx, PM10, CO2, CO, O3, H2S, Maintenance of a public
VOC’s ,and NH3 complaints register
Marine Environment  Optimum residual chlorine in the Collect a minimum of 20
discharge water to minimize impact water and 10 sediment
Receiving water quality monitoring, on biota and coral reefs samples at least once a year
transactional and mixing zone water  In order to avoid fouling , sea water at identified locations (to be
quality, biota and sediment should be treated to remove floating determined depending upon
monitoring and suspended materials the severity and bathymetry)
Analyze water and sediment
samples for organic,
inorganic, heavy metals and
chlorine residuals
Conduct biological
monitoring and biodiversity
analysis at least once a year
of coral reefs, sea grasses,
fishes ,turtles ,marine
mammals ,and other
biological species in the
region
Monitor chlorine level at
regular interval using
monitors installed in the
system
Noise and Vibrations  Engines to be enclosed in soundproof Noise monitoring at selected
Noise disturbance at residential or system and are properly functioning locations day and night for at
sensitive receptors in the immediate  Provide and enforce use of Personal least one hour at each
vicinity of the SROP Ph IV Protective Equipment (PPE) location, once a year. Regular
 Monitor noise levels as per GAMEP inspection to ensure good site
/USEPA guidelines practice by operation staff
 Reduce noise levels Maintenance of a public
complaint register
Monitor workers compliance
on use of PPE
Oil and Fuel Pollution  Prepare plans and procedures for Undertake regular checks
As fuel oil will be used for various proper storage and handling of oil preferably on a daily basis to
plants and equipments, vessels products ensure:
environmental pollution due to oil  Install oil interceptors in all the storm  Implementation of oil
leakages or spillages is considered water drainages around construction spillage prevention
sites plans
 Maintenance schedules
for equipment, and oil
interceptors is
implemented
Solid and Liquid Waste Disposal Implementation of good site practices Regular inspection to ensure
consisting of: implementation of standard
 Systematic collection, segregation, waste management practices.
and storage of solid waste in secured Record the amount of waste
containers and disposal in designated generated on daily basis and
and protected storage areas or disposal methods used.
________________________________________________________________________________________________ 263
GAMEP licensed/ municipal dumping Keep an inventory of waste

site generating in an electronic
 A waste management programme data base
consisting of reduction, re-use and Develop proper collection
recycling of waste materials and storage program
 Ensure proper packaging and
transport of waste to GAMEP licensed
disposal sites and recycling firms
Occupational Health and Safety Adhere to Safety Policy and Safe Work Regular inspection to ensure
Safety and well being of on-site Procedures for SROP Ph IV operation that implementation of site safety
personnel include: procedures
 Provision of health safety and welfare Monthly safety report forms
plans and procedures to workers on to be prepared and submitted
site to management
 Provision of and enforcement of use Register, investigate and
of PPE address any public complains
 Comply with the Safety Policy and related to the project
Proper Labeling for
Safe Working Procedures, Laws,
hazardous and risky locations
Regulation within the Kingdom of in the plant and chemical
Saudi Arabia. storage area
 Establish and monitor performance of Arrange training program at
Health and Safety Committee as per least once a year on
the safety regulations occupational health and
 Restrict entry into SROP Ph IV site to safety awareness
Monitor air quality at least
authorized persons only
once a year for a minimum of
1 hour sampling .
General Risks and Hazards  Draw up and enforce fire and oil spill Emergency Response Plans
Due to accidents, fire outbreaks, oil emergency response plans displayed in workers
spills and other emergencies  Inspect and properly maintain plant accessible areas
equipment and operation vehicles Develop display posters and
 Arrange fire drills and other leaflets to bring awareness on
emergency safety evacuation plan safety among workers
9.6. Environmental Monitoring Program

The Environment Monitoring Plan proposed to be carried out during the off shore construction
and operation phases of SROP Ph IV is presented.
The environmental attributes to be monitored during the construction phase should cover the
marine and Coastal environments. The monitoring program for the off shore construction phase
is presented in Marine Water Quality Program, Sediment Quality Monitoring Program and
Marine Habitat Monitoring .
Table 9.15: Marine Water Quality Monitoring Program
1 Objective of The objective of marine water quality monitoring is to list out the
Monitoring changes in the water quality during the off shore construction works
of trenching of Sea bed for the installation of intake and outfall
pipes and use the results in planning the respective operations
2 Parameters to be Physical Properties: pH, EC, Salinity, Temperature, Turbidity
monitored Chemical Properties: DO, BOD, COD, Oil & Grease, Nutrients,
Sulphates, Chlorides
________________________________________________________________________________________________ 264
Heavy Metals: Fe, Zn, Mg, Mn, Cd, Cr, Hg

Bacteriological parameters: Coliform count
Marine Biology: Phytoplankton and Zooplankton
3 Sampling Marine Water should be collected using a bottom sampler (Niskin
Methodology Sampler). On-site tests such as pH, Turbidity, DO, Temp, EC should
be carried out immediately after sample collection. The samples
intended for chemical, heavy metals and bacteriological analysis
should be suitably preserved with necessary reagents.
The plankton samples should be collected using plankton net of
diameter of 0.35 m, No. 25 mesh size 63 . The plankton net should
be towed for 15 minutes at the sampling locations for collection of
samples for estimation of Phytoplankton and Zooplankton
4 No. of locations Six Locations
 Reference Point
 Centre of trench at Sea bed for the installation of intake and
outfall pipes
 North of intake and outfall pipelines
 South of intake and outfall pipelines
 East of intake and outfall pipelines
 West of intake and outfall pipelines
5 Frequency of The samples should be collected on a monthly basis both for low
Measurements tide and high tide periods commencing one week prior to
commencement of construction and spread over the entire
construction period.
6 Compliance The tested samples should be compared with the primary water
quality standards framed by GAMEP and also with other relevant
guidelines to assess the compliance during the entire phase of the
Table 9.16: Sediment Quality Monitoring Program

1 Objective of The objective of sediment quality monitoring is to assess the
Monitoring changes in the sediment quality during the off shore construction
works of trenching of Sea bed for the installation of intake and
outfall pipes and use the results in planning the respective operations
2 Parameters to be Physico-Chemical Properties: pH, Organic Matter, Nutrients, Oil
monitored and Grease
Heavy Metals: Fe, Zn, Mn, Cd, Cr, Hg, Ni, Pb
Benthic Communities: Macro and Micro Benthic Flora and Fauna
3 Sampling Marine sediment should be collected using a Van Vein ’s Grab
Methodology Sampler. The collected sediment should be segregated on the site for
analysis of physico-chemical parameters, heavy metals and benthic
communities. The sediment sample for benthic communities should
be subjected to sieving to record the macro benthos and then the
samples should be preserved with Rose Bengal and Formalin
Solution for further analysis of Benthic communities .
4 No. of locations Six Locations
 Reference Point
outfall pipes
________________________________________________________________________________________________ 265
South of intake and outfall pipelines


5 Frequency of The samples should be collected on a monthly basis commencing
Measurements one week prior to commencement of construction and spread over
the entire construction period.
6 Compliance The tested samples should be compared with the primary sediment
quality standards framed by GAMEP and also with other relevant
guidelines to assess the compliance during the entire phase of the
Table 9.17: Marine Habitat Monitoring Program

1 Objective of The Marine Habitat monitoring should be carried out with an
Monitoring objective to plan the activities involved during the off shore
construction works of trenching of Sea bed for the installation of
intake and outfall pipes and use the results in planning the respective
operations .
2 Parameters to be  Diversity of Corals, Sea grasses ,Turtles ,Marine Mammals
monitored ,Fishes, Benthic invertebrates ,
3 Sampling Scuba Diving .
Methodology
4 No. of locations Six Locations (At least 500 meters radius)
 Reference Point
outfall pipes
 South of intake and outfall pipelines
5 Frequency of Once in a month for two days.
Measurements
6 Compliance The results should be compared with the ESIA Environmental
baseline results and with other relevant guidelines to assess the
compliance during the entire phase of the construction Phase
activities.
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SECTION 10: SUMMARY, CONCLUSIONS AND

RECOMMENDATIONS
________________________________________________________________________________________________ 267
SECTION 10: SUMMARY, CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

Summary
The environmental and social impact assessment study for Shoaiba RO Plant Phase IV Project
has been presented in compliance with the General Environmental Regulations and Rules for
Implementation(GERRI, 2001) of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and in the compliance with
Equator Principle EP II 2013.
The environmental management study assures compliance with the regulatory requirements;
identifies and analyzes sensitive components of the existing environment; determines the type,
nature and importance of the probable environmental impacts during construction ; identifies
and recommends practical effective mitigation measures; recommends a framework for an
environmental management and monitoring plan for the off shore construction works of Shoaiba
RO Plant Phase IV Project; and ensures that all stakeholders deemed to be influenced by the
projects or activities are fully considered.
Conclusions
off-shore works of the Shoaiba RO Plant Phase IV Project will not lead to significant impacts on
various environmental components and marine life after the recommended mitigation measures
are implemented. The most significant impacts will occur during trenching of sea bed for
installation of intake and outfall channels. These are anticipated to be short-term and, providing
full mitigation is applied, the baseline condition will have largely returned to the
predevelopment conditions after a very short period.
The development of the SROP Ph IV is expected to commence, new dredging activities impacts
which are limited to the project site and adjacent areas only. The new trenching of sea bed for
installation of intake and outfall channels should be aligning with the development and
protection of the environment in the best possible way.
If the recommended mitigation measures recommended in this Chapter 10 Table 10.1, the
environmental management and monitoring recommendations given in the chapter 9.0 should be
followed, therefore, it is anticipated that the negative impacts will not lead to any significant
effects.
Significant impacts are considered to be those for which will be anticipated to create a negative
“impact significance” prior to any mitigation were assessed and/or proposed
The impacts which are anticipated to be beneficial have also been included in the table below.
________________________________________________________________________________________________ 268
Table 10.18: Summary of significant impact and mitigation measured proposed

Activity Residual
Predicted Proposed Mitigation and
causing Significance Impact
Impact Enhancement Measures
impact Significance
Direct removal of • Benthic study to minimize
Substantial Minor
coral reef coral reef damage or loss
• Method of dredging
• Emphasis on using best
available technology (BAT)
Carryover of silt
• Use of Silt curtains to
plume from the minimize spreading of silt
trenching of sea plume
bed for
installation of Moderate • Best equipment and barge Minor
used in the operation
intake and outfall
channels for • Limit the volume of onshore
SROP Ph IV reclamation and instead plan
to use large volume inland
productively, i.e. for land
scape , land reclamation, and
backfilling
• Daily and monthly
Environmental Monitoring
Trenching • Avoid sensitive areas
of sea bed • Avoid trenching activities
for where there is nearby
installation aquaculture
of intake • Use of appropriate geotextile
and outfall Reduced water
curtains to control spread of
channels quality by
sediments
for SROP increase in
turbidity and • Use of silt curtain
Ph IV
reduced Substantial • Proper planning and Negligible
dissolved oxygen scheduling on the dredging
due to re- and reclamation to avoid
suspension of strong wind, current and tides
sediments that will further add to widen
the effect of spreading of
sediment
• Used of best available method
• Testing and analyzing the
water column at upstream and
downstream from all the
dredging activities
• Method of Dredging and
reclamation
Water
contamination • Daily and monthly
Substantial Negligible
during dredging Environmental Monitoring
and reclamation
• Sampling of sediment and
water of the dredging site to
________________________________________________________________________________________________ 269
Activity Residual
impact Significance
determine compliance with
the World Bank and GAMEP
standards before and during
dredging
• dredging site to determine
compliance with the World
Bank / IFC and GAMEP
standards before and during
dredging
• Apply Construction
environmental management
and Monitoring plan (CEMP)
and Dredging Environmental
Management Plan (DEMP)
• Ensure that all necessary
permits prior to dredging and
reclamation works has been
acquired by Dredging
contractor
• High maintenance standard of
equipment
• Installation of noise
Impact of noise suppressors in all the
(surface/underwa equipment
Negligible Negligible
ter) from • Provision of silencer and
equipment muffler
• Limit the hours of operation
• Apply health and safety and
environment manual (HSE)
• Watering of pavement to
Air contaminants minimize dust
due to
transporting and
reclamation
Moderate • Use of Personal Protective Negligible
works of dredged Equipment (PPE) as per
materials health & safety guidelines
• Limit the capacity to avoid

Potential over- overloading
spill from split
• Good housekeeping
barge that Negligible Minor
handles dredged • Use of well-maintained barge
material • Daily monitoring and
inspection
• Good housekeeping
• Applying and enforcing the
company’s HSE system
Workplace
hazard
Negligible • Safe operation through the Negligible
use of safety management
• system, protective equipment
daily site inspection and
________________________________________________________________________________________________ 270
Activity Residual
impact Significance
safety training
Re-colonization
build-up of
benthic
communities
Operation within the SROP Negligible • No need for any mitigation Positive Impact
Ph IV intake and
Out fall pipelines
area and
reclaimed areas.
• Local Saudi companies
should be contracted to
supply construction and
operation goods and services
wherever practicable
• Economic impacts of marine
socio-economic port operations are
Negligible characterized by SROP Ph IV Positive Impact
development
's direct impact—that is, the
amount of jobs and labor
income that are directly
related to the SROP Ph IV
and its operations—and its
employment and labor
income multiplier effects.
• SROP Ph IV Waste
Port Waste Negligible Minor
Management Plan
The most significant impacts occurring during the construction of the project will be during the
dredging phase. However, these impacts are anticipated to be short term and, providing that the
full mitigation measures that were discussed earlier were to be applied, the impacts significance
will not be severe.
Beneficial socio-economic impacts are also anticipated resulting from the SROP Ph IV both to
the residents of Shoaiba and nearby villages, and throughout Saudi Arabia, which will be in
terms of improving their standards of living, creating more jobs to local residents and allowing
the development of the infrastructure in the area through building more facilities, factories and
governmental and private institution by means of domestic water production.
Through applying all the mitigation measures and the Environmental Monitoring and
Management Plan (EMMP) ,Construction Environmental Management Plan ,(CEMP ),
Dredging Environmental Management Plan (CEMP) and the reporting procedure throughout the
trenching of sea bed for installation of intake and outfall channels for SROP Ph IV disposal
activities, the offshore works especially the dredging activities is expected to have a controlled
and minimum impact on the marine environment.
________________________________________________________________________________________________ 271
Recommendations
Fine sediments are likely to be released into the water column during the dredging and trenching
of sea bed for installation of intake and outfall channels for SROP Ph IV . These will be
transported by the waves and currents and deposited onto the coral reef under certain
environmental conditions. The sediments will be suspended ;either partially or fully and
dispersed over a substantial area due to magnitude of the sheer stress of waves and currents. It is
highly recommended that silt curtains to be used, which will form as a physical barrier to the
transport of fine sediments. The use of best equipment and barges will also minimize this impact
dramatically. Timing is also plays an important role in controlling the transport of sediments as
the impact will multiply when the waves are strong. Complete mitigations are discussed in
chapter 8 of this off shore ESIA study.
The quality and quantity of the discharged material could cause an impact to the marine life if it
is not monitored and applied the proper means to eliminate or at least to minimize the impact.
Proper monitoring sensors need to be put in place to monitor the temperature of the discharged
water. Also by increasing the retention time by installing proper diffusers at the discharge point
would help in reducing the temperature in the channel as well as minimizing the impact at the
discharge point to the marine environment. Constant monitoring is to make sure that the
temperature is within ≤ 3°C temperature increase limit from the ambient marine tem perature at
100 meters the point of discharge is recommended. Below are other recommendations applicable
to the SROP Ph IV off shore Construction works .
Sediment Control Measures
The objective of sediment quality monitoring is to assess the changes in the sediment quality
during the trenching of sea bed for installation of intake and outfall channels for SROP Ph IV
and use the results in planning the respective operations.
Parameters to be monitored:
Physico-Chemical Properties: pH, Organic Matter, Nutrients, Oil and Grease
Heavy Metals: Fe, Zn, Mn, Cd, Cr, Hg, Ni, Pb
Benthic Communities: Macro and Micro Benthic Flora and Fauna
Sediment quality will be evaluated as part of a sediment monitoring program. Impacts of
sediment bound contaminants will be evaluated through the available GAMEP regulations.
Silt Curtains
Silt curtains are vertical barriers positioned within the water to contain fine material (sediment)
introduced into the water column by dredging or other engineering construction activities. A
________________________________________________________________________________________________ 272
definition of a silt curtain is “A floating geotextile material which minimizes sediment transport
from a disturbed area adjacent to or within a body of water” (USACE, 2007).
The principal purpose of a silt curtain is to provide a barrier from the water’s surface to the
required depth; in most cases this will be the seabed, but in deeper waters this may not be
possible. This barrier aims to prevent the fine grained suspended material from migrating by
advection and diffusion from the point of generation at the work site and into the wider
environment. This fine grained material may reduce water quality and impact upon sensitive
receivers in the vicinity of the work site area. Sensitive receivers in this context may be ecology
that is sensitive to light attenuation and / or sediment deposition, for example mangroves, corals,
sea grass and cockles. Some regard silt curtains as primarily an aesthetic measure with limited
practical value. In some instances the use of silt curtains does result in appreciable visual
differences between low turbidity ‘background’ water on one side of a curtain and turbid water
generated by dredging on the other. These very distinct visual differences may truly reflect a
significant reduction in turbidity via the use of the curtain or the difference between inside and
outside the curtain may be very limited when the whole of the water column is considered,
particularly if the curtain does not extend all the way to the seabed or it is poorly maintained.
Retention Ponds
A retention pond, sometimes called a "wet pond," has a permanent pool of water with capacity
above the permanent pool designed to capture and slowly release the water quality capture
volume .The pond acts as a collector to trap sediment from seeping into the sea, and degrades
the environment for birds, fish and other wildlife.
Continuous Water Quality Monitoring
The objective of marine water quality monitoring is to list out the changes in the water quality
during the trenching of sea bed for installation of intake and outfall channels for SROP Ph IV
and use the results in planning the respective operations.
During the construction phase, an environmental monitoring and audit programme should be
implemented in accordance with the procedures and requirements in the Project Monitoring
Report and the relevant legislations to address the potential water pollution generated by the
dredging and reclamation activities. An Environmental Team from DHIC shall be employed to
carry out the monitoring and audit works. DHIC Environmental Team will:
• Undertake an Environmental Monitoring programme during the construction phase of
the Project;
• A third party independent Environmental Consultant should be appointed to conduct
Environmental Audit
________________________________________________________________________________________________ 273
• Carry out regular environmental monitoring and audits, and ensure that environmental
mitigation measures recommended in the Contract Specifications are enforced;
• Implement corrective actions and other mitigation measures to reduce impacts where
environmental non-compliance findings are identified in the course of the regular EM&A
and other inspections; and,
• Preparing monthly environmental monitoring and audit report.
In accordance with the requirements of the project monthly report, water quality sampling
stations have been established around the proposed SROP PH iv Intake and outfall trench
dredging areas. The frequency of the routine water measurement and sediment sampling will
depend upon the site activities, environmental variations and the requirements of SWCC
Engineer during the construction period. However, it will be at least once a week in the
beginning. Water samples at identified station at mid depth shall be collected and analyzed for
the water parameters. Measurements should be taken using a portable, laser monitoring water
meter. GAMEP certified laboratory should be employed for full suite of physical-chemical and
biological analysis. The analytical methods shall be explained through the reporting procedure
and each sample shall have a chain of custody that shall be available for auditing purposes
should the need arise.
Habitat Monitoring
Seawater monitoring: Periodic Sea water monitoring is recommended every Month during the
off shore construction phase. The samples should be collected from the marine survey stations
and analyzed against GAMEP ’s receiving water guidelines.
Marine Habitat
 Periodic marine surveys are recommended at sites where sea grass beds have been
recorded to monitor any changes as a result of the construction activities. At least once in
a month .
 Quarterly environmental audits are recommended to ensure the project is carried out in
compliance to applicable requirements. Audit criteria include the recommendations in
this report and requirements specified by the GAMEP guidelines.
 The audit reports along the monitoring data above should be submitted to GAMEP .
Underwater Noise and Vibration Monitoring
According to all the studies and legislative trends, the impact of anthropogenic noise during
dredging needs to be monitored and presumably reduced. In this contribution, a methodology to
estimate the impact of dredging is established. The measurement set up and the data processing
shall design and successfully employed to provide received levels at different depths and
distances from the source. A virtual image propagation model that considers source and receiver
depths, sea depth and salinity, water and seabed density, and sound speed in both the water and
________________________________________________________________________________________________ 274
in the sediment, should programmed to estimate the propagation losses, and adjusted to fit the
measured levels at various distances from the source. Finally, estimations of the source levels
should obtained, that can be used to analyze different operation modes of the dredger, as well as
areas affected by the noise it produces.
Coral Reefs
Within the Red Sea, arrays of anthropogenic impacts have left their mark on the integrity and
productivity of marine ecosystems with once complex marine habitats now reduced to rubble.
During recent decades, extensive areas of benthic habitat in the Red Sea have been decimated,
not only by intense land reclamation and dredging activities, but also as a result of destructive
and illegal fishing practices. An artificial reef may be defined as “one or more objects of natural
or human origin deployed purposefully on the seafloor to influence physical, biological or socio-
economic processes related to living marine resources” (Seaman Jr. and Jensen, 2000). Although
this definition is limited to planned artificial reefs utilizing either natural or prefabricated
structures, as is the case in the present ESIA study.
To achieve these goals, SWCC /DHIC should develop a science-based project approach to:
• Monitor coral reefs may be most likely to support self-sustaining reef-based
communities;
• Identify natural reefs in the SROP Ph IV construction area, and recommend optimum
design criteria such that the program goals may be achieved to protect them .
Monitoring Report during construction phase of SROP Ph IV off shore works
To accumulate relevant data during trenching of sea bed for installation of intake and outfall
channels for SROP Ph IV activities, DHIC's Environmental Consultant environmental staff
shall witness such activities and record the data by using “Environmental Monitoring Report”.
This collected information shall be used to create an overall Monthly Environmental Report that
will be produced by DHIC's Environmental Consultant and submitted to GAMEP for their
review and approval . Monthly Environmental Report shall include the following sections as a
minimum:
1. Project Details and Progress during the month
2. Weather ,Tide ,Currents , and Oceanographic Conditions
3. Description of Dredging works
4. Volume of dredged materials and reclamation to date
5. Daily Environmental Monitoring Reports
6. Water and Sediment Sampling Laboratory Analysis Report (Third party Laboratory
approved by GAMEP)
________________________________________________________________________________________________ 275
7. HSE Accident/Incident Report
8. Location Maps of monitoring sites
9. SROP Ph IV Site
10. Waste Management
11. Conclusion and Recommendation
________________________________________________________________________________________________ 276
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‫ﻣﺆﺳﺴﺔ ﺍﻟﺘﻮﺍﺯﻥ ﺍﻟﺒﻴﺌﻲ‬

Environmental Balance Establishment

SOCIAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT

THE GENERAL AUTHORITY OF METEOROLOGY AND

DOC NUMBER: EBE/616/1000/2017 Volume 1

PROJECT: SOCIAL & ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT VOLUME I

OFFSHORE WORKS OF SHOAIBA RO PHASE 4 PROJECTS– SHOAIBA, KINGDOM OF

REV DESCRIPTION REVIEW APPROVAL DATE

00 SEA Offshore Dr Dirrar Nissar Osama J Qurban 30.10.2017

REV Issued By Date Reviewed Comment Date

0 Dilshad Thalappil 30.11.2017 Dr Dirar Nasr

1 Dilshad Thalappil 24.12.2017 Dr Dirar Nasr

PEL Public Environmental Law

SECTION DESCRIPTION PAGE

1.22.7 Mitigation measures to reduce the effect on the Terrestrial

4.9.10 Assessment of Residual Impacts Significance, Impact Value

6.4.2 Technical criteria for suitability

7.5 Key Potential impacts on the Marine Environmental effects

8.6.3 To mitigate impacts on Marine and Sediment Quality

Table 7.6 Assessment of Marine and Coastal Impact Significance

SECTION 1: NON-TECHNICAL SUMMARY

SECTION 1: NON-TECHNICAL SUMMARY

Figure 1.1: Location of Shoaiba R O Plant Phase IV site

The development of the SROP Ph IV is expected to commence, new dredging activities

1.1.1. Presentation of the project

1.2. Shoaiba R O Plant Phase IV Project.

Figure 1.3: R O Plant Phase IV Shoaiba: Project Site

Figure 1.4: Process of SROP Ph IV

Figure 1.5: Project Schedule of SROP Ph IV

1.3. The objectives of the ESIA are to provide:

1.7. Consultation and Liaison with the stake holders

• Significance – overall importance of the impact.

• Chapter 10 provides conclusions and recommendations of the ESIA

Identification and analysis of key effects of the SROP Ph IV project on:

• Review relevant environmental regulations, rules, guidelines (GERRI 2001) and

Principle 4: Action plan and management system;

• Smothering of sub-tidal and intertidal communities via redistribution of sediments.

implementing appropriate management measures including monitoring before, during and

• Trucks delivering materials and vehicles transporting construction personnel to and

1.21. Potential Impacts from the Waste generation

• Dredging vessels excavating the pipeline trenches should be restricted to designated

1.22.9. Mitigation measures to reduce the effect on the Social Environment

SECTION 2: REVIEW OF ENVIRONMENTAL

SECTION 2: REVIEW OF ENVIRONMENTAL REGULATIONS

2.2. Environmental Regulatory Framework in KSA

Ministry of Agriculture: is responsible for the implementation of all aspects of Kingdom’s

Ministry of Water and Electricity: is to prepare a comprehensive plan to establish water

• Culture method/system, species and stocking density

Figure 2.1 EIA Requirements in Saudi Arabia

2.3.3. Environmental Regulations of the GAMEP

Appendix 1: Environmental Protection Standards

Appendix 2: Procedures for the Assessment of Environmental Effects of Industrial and

Appendix 3: Manual of Environmental Qualification Procedures

Appendix 4: Rules and Procedures for the Control of Hazardous Waste

Appendix 6: Violations and Fines

Based on the classifications of Industries and Development Projects in Appendix 2 of the

Table 2.1: Review of Regulatory Requirements and Standards of the GAMEP

A Third Category project requires assessment by a qualified consultant approved by the

These guidelines state that the assessment must include: