Adigrate Sanitary Landfill Environmental and Social Impact Assessment Re ort

Transcription

1 Public Disclosure Authorized Public Disclosure Authorized Public Disclosure Authorized Public Disclosure Authorized TIGRAY NATIONAL REGIONAL STATE ADIGRATE CITY ADMINISTRATION Adigrate Sanitary Landfill Environmental and Social Impact Assessment Re ort Prepared by MS Consult Addis Ababa February, 2013

2 Table of contents Table of contents... 2 List of Figures... 3 List of Tables... 4 Acronym... 5 Executive Summary Background to the EIA study Objectives of the ESIA study Methodology of EIA Study Description of the project Project Location Slope and Topography Soil and soil test pits Description of the sanitary landfill Project Sanitary Landfill Leachate Management Gas Management System Ancillary Facilities Sanitary Landfill Operation Policy, Legislatives and Institutional Framework Policy Framework Conservation Strategy of Ethiopia Tigray Regional state Conservation Strategy f!'l'l Environmental policy of Ethiopia Water resource and sanitation policies and legislatives The Health Policy of Ethiopia I" National Hygiene and Sanitation Strategy for Ethiopia National Hygiene and On-site Sanitation Protocol ii'l World Bank Safe guard Policies Legal Frameworks Federal Environment related proclamations Regional level Proclamations and regulations Institutional Set up Baseline environmental conditions Bio-Physical Environment Location Topography Climate Temperature Wind Direction Soil Geology Ground water Land use in the area , 2..

3 Local Flora and Fauna Water Supply Socio-Economic Condition Population and settlements Education Public Health Situation Existing Solid Waste Management Practices Solid Waste Collection & Transportation Solid Waste Treatment & Disposal Impacts due to the current solid waste disposal practice Analyses of Alternatives Potential Environmental Impacts of Project Positive impacts of the project Adverse impacts of the Project Impacts on water sources Air Pollution Impacts Impact on Vegetation cover and Wildlife Resources Impact on Land resource and Soil Erosion Public Health and Safety lmpacts Hazardous and Loss of Amenity Impacts Due to Accidental Fire and Traffic load Mitigation Measures Mitigation measures for Impacts on water sources Detecting water pollution Mitigation measure for Air Pollution Impacts... SO 8.3. Mitigation measures for Impact on Land resource and Soil Erosion Mitigation measures for Public Health and Safety Impacts Mitigation measures for Hazardous and Loss of Amenity Mitigation measure for fire Accidental and Traffic load Environmental Management and Monitoring plan Operational Controls Access Control Cost Estimates for construction, operation and Monitoring plan Conclusion and recommendation Annexes Annex.1. References Annex-2 : List of consulted persons Annex-3: List of EIA report pre parers List of Figures FIGURE 1: ADIGRAT LOCATION MAP FIGURE 4: FACILITIES ON SITE (TELE TOWER- SATELLITE RECEIVER STATION, TRANSFORMER AND GUARDHOUSE) FIGURE 5: EUCALYPTUS TREES CURRENTLY ON SITE AT THE DOWNHILL FIGURE 6: THE SITE WITH OUTCROPS BASALTIC BOULDERS ON THE SOUTH-WESTERN SIDE OF THE SITE FIGURE 7: TYPICAL TEST PIT PROFILE AND DEMONSTRATION AT DEEPER DEPTHS (LAYER 4)

4 FIGURE 8: SANITARY landfill DETAIL SITE LAYOUT FIGURE 9: landfill OPERATIONAL PROCEDURES FIGURE 10: HOUSE HOLD LEVEL SOLID WASTE HANDLING FIGURE 11: HOUSE TO HOUSE COLLECTION AND TRANSPORTATION TO DISPOSAL SITE FIGURE 12: EXISTING DISPOSAL SITE AT HUGA FIGURE 13 :HOUSES WITHIN 100M RADIUS FROM DISPOSAL SITE FIGURE 14: WATER SOURCE DOWNSTREAM OF DISPOSAL SITE FIGURE 16: ALTERNATIVE SITE LOCATIONS ARROUND THE TOWN List of Tables TABLE 1: COMPARATIVE EVALUATION OF THE POTENTIAL SANITARY landfill SITES... 9 TABLE 2: RAINFALL DATA OF ADIGRAT TABLE 3-NUMBER OF STUDENTS AND TEACHERS IN GOVERNMENTAL SCHOOLS (2009/10 G.C) TABLE 4-NUMBER OF STUDENTS, TEACHERS, & CLASS ROOMS IN NON GOVERNMENTAL SCHOOLS {2009/10 G.C) TABLE 5-GOVERNMENTAL AND NON-GOVERNMENTAL HEALTH INSTITUTIONS IN 2009/10 G.C TABLE 6- TOP 10 DISEASES IDENTIFIED IN THE TOWN IN 2009/10 G.C TABLE 7: COMPARATIVE EVALUATION OF THE POTENTIAL SANITARY landfill SITES TABLE 8: SUMMARY OF MAJOR IMPACTS AND PROPOSED MITIGATING MEASURES TABLE 9: ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT AND MONITORING PLAN TABLE 10: ESTIMATED PROJECT CAPITAL COSTS FO ENVIRONMENTAL MITIGATION MEASURES TABLE 11: FINANCIAL ALLOCATION FOR SANITATION SERVICES "',,, 11!1.,, "'' ,,....

5 Acronym FDRE ESMF IR LEPO LR MSE MWUD PAC PAF PAP RAP REPA RPF RUPI SPG UDCBO ULG ULGDP Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia Environmental and Social Management Framework Income Restoration Land and Environmental Protection Office Livelihood Restoration Micro and Small Scale Enterprise Ministry of Works and Urban Development Project Affected Community Project Affected Family Project Affected People Resettlement Action Plan Regional Environmental Protection Authority Resettlement Policy Framework Regional Urban Planning Institute Specific Purpose Grant Urban Development Capacity Building office Urban Local Government Urban Local Government Development Project 5

6 Executive Summary Background the project The Government of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia (FORE) in its effort to change the backward economic and social status of the country and provide basic urban infrastructure for cities, is undertaking development of urban infrastructure in selected urban centers in the country with the assistance of donors and international financial institutions. One of such projects is the "Urban Local Government Development Project (ULGDP)". This project is implemented with loan from the World Bank to assist urban selfgovernments to provide additional infrastructure and public services corresponding to the needs of the urban residents. The specific development objective of the ULGDP is to support improved performance in the planning, delivery and sustained provision of priority municipal services and infrastructure by urban local governments. Accordingly, Adigrat is identified as one of the beneficiaries of the program; focusing on both solid and liquid waste management, Thus, the city Administration is trying to have well planned and designed Solid Waste treatment facilities ( Sanitary land fill) and to improve health and hygiene practices which are the prime causes for sanitation-related diseases, Accordingly, the objective of the consultancy service is to prepare the project designs, specifications and bills of quantities, preparation of the bidding documents, bid evaluation as well the supervision and management of the construction of the sanitary landfill. Solid waste collection and transportation in Addigrat town is in a better condition, the residents and different institutions store decomposable and non-decomposable wastes separately. In case, waste is mixed at source, the collectors do not accept it for disposal, as compared to other urban centers of the country. However, proper disposal site management and waste treatment facilty is lacking for the town at present. Waste is simply dumped at environmentally sensitive locations, and posing pollution impacts and public health treats. Hence, the need for design and implementation of a sustainable and environmentally sound waste treatment facility becomes apparent. The current study aims at filling this gap by implementation of a standard sanitary landfill for proper treatment of solid waste generated in the town during the coming 10 years. The Adigrat Municipality is committed to ensuring that waste disposal is conducted in an environmentally responsible way. This includes ensuring that landfill designers, contractors and operators are aware of the risks land filling poses to the quality of air, water, and land and community amenity. 6,,,.. Ill -

7 The TOR for the project requires that EIA study be conducted, so as to identify the likely adverse impacts to be caused as a result of the project implementation, and to propose mitigation measures that enable minimize the adverse impacts on the one hand, and measures to help enhance the positive impacts of the project to meet the desired objectives on the other hand. Objectives of the EIA study Solid waste management projects have the primary objectives of ensuring public health and environmental protection and sustainability through proper collection, transfer, and disposal of wastes. The sanitary landfill, being the ultimate disposal facility, its design and operation needs to comply with health, environmental and social safety requirements. Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (EIA) study has the objectives of ensuring sustainable development proposals and implementations; to determine the potential environmental, social and economic effects of a proposed development. In this regard, environmental assessment process supports the goals of solid waste management, environmental protection and sustainable development and helps to integrate; environmental protection and economic decisions at the earliest stages of planning an activity; predict environmental, social, economic, and cultural consequences of a proposed activity and plans to mitigate any adverse impacts resulting from the proposed activity. It also provides opportunities for the involvement of stakeholders in the review of the proposed activities. Methodology of the EIA study The EA process followed the EIA guidelines as provided by the EPA and also the Environmental and Social Management Framework of Urban Local Government Development Project (ULGDP). Accordingly data was collected both from primary and secondary sources, consultations were conducted with the relevant stakeholders', and analyses of the data made to come up with the proposal of mitigation measures for adverse impacts and enhancement for positive impacts. Project Description The proposed Sanitary Land fill Project will be implemented in the central Zone of the Tigry Regional State, in Addigrat town. Addigrat town is found at 898 km distance from Addis Ababa, 125 km distance from Mekele( regional capital). The geographical location of the town is 14o20' N and 39o29'E, and as per the Integrated Development Plan(IDP) report the towns influential area includes Gulumeda, Erob, Saesi Tsadaemba, Ganta Afeshum, Hawzein, Wukro and Atsbi Wenberta Weredas. 7

8 The proposed site for solid waste disposal, Qersa Ber-Godba Got, is located at about 1 0 km from Adigrat town at the north-western side, offset by 500 meters from Adigrat - Zalambessa asphalt road and easily accessible. The altitude is between 2607 and 2616 m.a.s.l. The location is defined by E longitudes and N latitudes. Currently the site is used as farmland by the local farmers and has partly served as crusher site for road construction in the past. Based on the detail assessment and evaluation criteria for comparison of the different alternative sites as presented by the inception report, the site location, its topography and geology are found to be favorable for the proposed solid waste treatment plant project. In addition, no settlement is found in the proximity of the proposed site, but at far distances in about 3-4km in the adjacent and depressed ground areas (foot of the hill), there are some settlements observed. The Adigrate solid waste management system consists of Sanitary landfill, leachate evaporation pond, inter-facility access road and other ancillary structures as solid waste management units. The sanitary landfill construction project will be lying on an area of 6.97 hectare. The required landfill area is calculated on the assumption that all the waste generated during the design year will collected and disposed on the landfill site. There is sufficient area for the facility for the entire design horizon. The life of the landfill assumed to use for 20 years and could be further increased by applying waste minimization and alternative waste management systems discussed as integrated waste management systems Policy, legislatives and Institutional Framework The relevant policy, legal and institutional frameworks within which the project will be implemented have been reviewed and highlighted in the document. Accordingly. Projects to be implemented under the (Urban Local Government Development Plan (ULGDP) should adhere to acceptable environmental and social safeguards. The projects should, as far as possible, not result in significant disturbance of sensitive ecological resources. It should not result in involuntary resettlement and land acquisition, and where this is necessary it is minimized by exploring all viable alternatives and where it is unavoidable, compensatory programs are prepared and implemented.. Analyses of alternative sanitary landfill sites The analyses for the alternative potential landfill sites are based on comparative evaluation of expected significant impacts as illustrated in table 1-3 below. The check list is rated as Positive (+) impacts or negative (-) impacts expected of the project, depending on site specific conditions

9 Table 1: Comparative evaluation of the Potential Sanitary Landfill sites Environmental factors likely to be adversely Net of affected Environmental I E (i3 E u (j)'"o'"o (j) (j) (]) ~~ >- impacts u E c c ~+-c~ Site 2-c~ 0 0.Q - > +- 0 c Name of site... (])- 0 0 :J (]) :J N..0 ~ (])+-.2 u Rank No. (]) u c (/) c E..c..0 0 u (]) (])... u ~ 0 lo... lo... ~ 0) E '6 c 0 u (]) :J > (]) (]) "E 0 VI > u VI 0 0 ~ a::l 1 Gula Ganahity 2 (Qersa Ber), Godba Got 3 (Qersa Ber), Mai Negesti Got 4 Mai Masson According to the relative evaluation result of the above table, the adverse environmental impacts posed due to the sanitary land fill will be least for site - 2 ( site located at Qersa Ber, Godba Got). This site is ranked as 1st from environmental protection points of view, and is prioritized for implementation of the project at this location. However, distance to be covered is the furthest for this alternative(9km), while distance is 8km, 7km, and 4km for Mai Negesti, Mai Hason and Gula Ganhity respectively. Potential environmental impacts and proposed mitigation measures The objective of a sound sanitary landfill design and operating practice is to minimize the impact of potentially polluting waste on the surrounding environment and to people living in the landfill's vicinity. The development of Adigrate Sanitary landfill, including its construction, operation and management, is associated with a range of potential environmental impacts. The key environmental impacts (negative and positive) identified during this EIA were assessed as minimal, moderate or significant and are summarized in table below. The key 'negative and positive' environmental issues highlighted in the table below represent the key areas where it is necessary to ensure the implementation of mitigating, management and monitoring measures in order to control these impacts, which are included in the conceptual design of main design report and environmental management plan. 9

10 The currently proposed project includes the construction of a sanitary landfill site with leachate treatment system, access road and other ancillary requirement, waste hauling facilities and improvements to the current SWM system to alleviate existing waste management problems. Loss of land in productive use The increased collection of waste throughout the city will lead to a reduction in land spoiled by illicit waste dumping and littering. On balance, it is considered that the potential impacts will be mostly positive. Disposing of waste is however potentially polluting in a variety of way. Job Opportunities There may be some employment opportunities for the local inhabitants during both the construction and operation of the site, depending on the required skill profile. Impacts on Human Health Impact on Water Resource The operational practices advocated for site management and operation are designed, inter alia, to minimize any potential health risks from the disposal of MSW, Operational Phase Impact on sector workers mitigation plan is proposed. Construction Phase Care should however be exercised when handling fuel and oil (hydraulic, transmission, engine, etc.) all earth-moving and other equipment should be in good working condition and well maintained (no leaks) Operation Phase bottom and slope lining of sanitary landfill with clay and HOPE FML installation of leachate collection and conveyance leachate treatment system with stabilization ponds and wet land.. 10

11 Odour Impacts Dust Impact (Air Quality) Emission of the exhaust gases from vehicles Application of daily cover Periodical venting of landfill gas through leachte collection end pipes Provision of buffer zone along the facility perimeter fence Landfill covering and/or spraying water on the top... of the landfill in dry weather conditions in order to reduce the potential for windblown dust, and spraying water over the site roads in dry weather conditions; landscape organization and planting of vegetation in order to hide the works from view from the nearby settlements. As there are very few existing traffic movements and a few other air pollution sources in the vicinity of this area, the landfill-related vehicles are likely to generate most of the total emissions. Baseline levels of pollutants are low; the additional emissions from these landfill-related vehicles are highly unlikely to raise the level of air pollutants to an acute level. Increased traffic... Strict traffic regulations should be put in place and traffic signals posted at critical locations along the route and within the plant compound. Bumpers and speed breakers need to be constructed at the approach of, and within the plant compound. The traffic leaving and entering the site should take necessary precaution while leaving and accessing the site. Environmental Management and Monitoring plan Finally the project Prepared environmental management and monitoring plan that would assist to incorporate environmental considerations at all levels of project implementation; at design stage, construction stage, operation stage and closure stage of the proposed project taking in to consideration applicable policy parameters. The monitoring matrix is incorporated to, preventing water pollution minimizing public health impacts minimizing damages to flora and fauna resources preventing air pollution promoting responsible land management and conservation 1 1

12 minimizing property losses preventing hazards and loss of amenity. The Costs require during operation phase of the project will be part of the day to day administrative and operational cost that the project is also estimated about 883,225 Eth. Birr. The budget will be allocated for training and awareness creation of personnel on the principles of Integrated Solid Waste Management and salary for permanent and temporary staff. Conclusion and recommendation The improvement measures being taken as regards to house hold level waste handling, door to door waste collection, waste recycling and reuse are good examples & indicators for a better urban waste management practice. The strategic plan prepared by the Adigrat town Sanitation, Beautification and Parks Office, if properly implemented is believed to bring further improvements in the waste management works of the town. One of such improvement measures is the provision of properly designed sanitary land fill for treatment and disposal of the solid waste of the town. Neither transfer containers nor dust bins are located on street sides, unlike most urban centers; instead door to door collection is done and directly transported to the disposal site by either the tractors, or by the carts. This could avoid/minimize the odor problems of waste containers located at road sides as experienced elsewhere. Capacity building is required to maintain this operation procedure, to cope with the urban population growth and increase in volume of waste generated from time to time. The study emphasizes and recommends the strict adherence to waste management hierarchy advocated worldwide at present. The waste management hierarchy follows the principles of sustainable development that encourages using scarce natural resources more efficiently, and avoiding the environmental impacts of waste disposal. The waste management hierarchy to be advocated should, therefore, recognize the following trend; A voiding waste Re-using materials Recycling and reprocessing materials Waste disposal (if the first three are not possible). 12

13 1. Introduction 1.1. Background to the EIA study Adigrat town has long history being one of the major cultural and commercial centers of the Tigray Regional state. It is estimated that settlement expanded in the area since early 14 1 h century, and has gradually grown to municipal level. The municipality is providing waste management services in the town relatively for longer period now. The solid waste management of the city is run under the office of Sanitation, Beautification Main Process of Adigrat city administration. As per the information of this office, there is a well established organizational set up to follow up and control the proper solid waste collection both at house hold level and centrally, to create awareness on the principles of waste segregation in to degradable organic and none degradable material, storing and recycling of the waste for reuse. There is also house to house waste collection and transportation service provided by the office. There is an open air solid waste disposal site at Huga, where the city's solid waste is dumped into a hand dug trench and leveled. However, the service is still inadequate as it is a case in most parts of Ethiopia. A previous study conducted by NUPI in year 2006, has identified waste management issue as being one of the major problems of the town. Accordingly, the study prioritized and set improvement strategies both for the liquid and solid waste management systems. The current Solid waste management study is part of this strategic plan that has been drawn by the town administration. The municipality is striving to implement the improvement measures in accordance with the set plan. It could be witnessed during the site visit and assessment by the current consultant team that significant works are being done as regards to household level solid waste handling, house to house solid waste collection, and street sweeping and transporting of the waste away from the dwelling areas. Rules and regulations are set and enforcement exercises are also being practiced on a relatively better situation. However, waste disposal practice is still backward and is inadequate, from environmental and public health protection points of view. There is no proper waste treatment and disposal site management for the town at present. Waste is simply dumped at environmentally sensitive locations, and posing pollution impacts and public health treats. Hence, the need for design and implementation of a sustainable and environmentally sound waste treatment facility becomes apparent.. The current study aims at filling this gap by implementation of a standard sanitary landfill for proper treatment of solid waste generated in the town during the coming 20 years. The Adigrat Municipality is committed to ensuring 13

14 that waste disposal is conducted in an environmentally responsible way. This includes ensuring that landfill designers, contractors and operators are aware of the risks land filling poses to the quality of air, water, and land and community amenity. Land filling is a common treatment and disposal method for municipal solid wastes (none hazardous solid wastes).this has been identified as a preferred technology option for treatment and disposal of solid waste generated in the City. EIA study for the landfill project implementation is, therefore, planned to guide and ensure Environmental Compliance of the project activities at all stages (design, construction, operation and closure of the landfill) of the project implementation. TOR requires the consultant to conduct investigations to assess the environmental impact of the construction of the solid waste treatment plant and recommend mitigation measures as per the guidelines and procedures set out in the Urban Local Government Development Project (ULGDP) Environmental and Social Management Framework (ESMF). That the consultant will prepare the Environmental Management Plan and/or other applicable documents as may be required as per the ESMF. Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) is a basic tool for the sound assessment of development proposals; to determine the potential environmental, social and economic effects of a proposed development. The environmental assessment process supports the goals of solid waste management, environmental protection and sustainable development and helps to; integrate environmental protection and economic decisions at the earliest stages of planning an activity; predict environmental, social, economic, and cultural consequences of a proposed activity and plans to mitigate any adverse impacts resulting from the proposed activity. It also provides opportunities for the involvement of stakeholders in the review of the proposed activities Objectives of the ESIA study Environmental Impacts Assessment (EIA) study is conducted with the intention of incorporating environmental issues and concerns in development projects; so that likely adverse impacts arising from project implementation are identified and mitigation measures are proposed early in the project implementation process. Solid waste management projects have the primary objectives of ensuring environmental protection and sustainability, both by upkeep of the sanitary conditions of an area and through resources recycling exercises. Improved solid waste management, in densely populated urban centers, is considered as one of the indicators for public health safety, reduced pollution of the surrounding natural resource (water, air and soil) in its premises. This can also 14 "' II''....

15 be considered as one of the means for tourist attraction to an area and yardstick for preferred habitation. The overall objective of the EIA study is to ensure that the intended goals of the solid waste landfill project is met to the satisfaction of the health and safety of the environment and to that of the requirements of both national and international environmental safeguard policies and guidelines. The EIA study has the objective of ensuring and supplementing the proper achievements of this overall goal of the landfill project. The EIA study focuses on two major aspects of the project; one is to enhance the positive impacts expected of the project implementation (i.e. proper and safe waste disposal system implementation), while on the other hand it endeavors to minimize the likely adverse impacts expected to be caused as a result of construction and operation of the sanitary landfill facility Methodology of EIA Study The EIA study followed standard procedures as per the EIA guidelines set by EPA, and similar international guidelines. Accordingly, Data collection, analyses of existing solid waste management practices and its consequential impacts, analyses of alternative sites and site selection for landfill construction, identification of possible impacts due to the project and proposals for mitigation of adverse impacts have been made. Data was collected both from primary and secondary sources; including site visit and site investigation, consultation of relevant stakeholders, review of documents and literature. 2. Description of the project 2.1. Project Location The proposed Sanitary Land fill Project will be implemented in the central Zone of the Tigry Regional State, in Addigrat town. Addigrat town is found at 898 km distance from Addis Ababa, 125 km distance from Mekele( regional capital). The geographical location of the town is 14o20' N and 39o29' E, and as per the Integrated Development Plan(IDP) report the towns influential area includes Gulumeda, Erob, Saesi Tsadaemba, Ganta Afeshum, Hawzein, Wukro and A tsbi Wenberta Weredas. The proposed site for solid waste disposal, Qersa Ber-Godba Got, is located at about 1 0 km from Adigrat town at the north-western side, offset by 500 meters from Adigrat - Zalambessa asphalt road and easily accessible. The altitude is between 2607 and 2616 m.a.s.l. The location is defined by E longitudes and N latitudes. Currently the site is used as farmland by the local farmers and has partly served as crusher site for road construction in the past. Based on the detail 15

16 assessment and evaluation criteria for comparison of the different alternative sites as presented by the inception report, the site location, its topography and geology are found to be favorable for the proposed solid waste treatment plant project. In addition, no settlement is found in the proximity of the proposed site, but at far distances in about 3-4km in the adjacent and depressed ground areas (foot of the hill), there are some settlements observed. UflNP CJRegion L_~J Woreda Zone II C. Tigray DE. Tigray II Me kele II s. Tigray 0W.Tigray Miles '""~ Figure 1 : Adigrat Location Map 2.2. Slope and Topography As stated earlier, the proposed Qersa Ber-Godba Got site for solid waste disposal is located on an elevated ground and formed with an altitude variation between 2607 and 2616 m.a.s.l. The topography of the site is moderately sloppy with an elevation difference of about 8.0 meters from north to south. The most feasible drainage outlet for the site is towards the south-west direction by introducing the appropriate drainage system. 16

17 2: Qersa Ber-Godba Got site with adjacent hill formation Figure 3: Project Site Topo Map Currently the site area is free of any constructions and utilities except some electric poles, satellite receiver tower, transformer and Guardhouse which are located at the highest ground terrain of the site. Although the site area allocated for the project is not precisely delineated by the Adigrat Municipality, it is easy to conclude that it will be limited between the relatively elevated (hilly) ground at the north-eastern side and the sharp drop of the land terrain at the south-western side. 17

18 Considering the site terrain and its offset distance from Adigrat town, potential expansion of habitants is not expected towards the site area within a short period of time. Considering the site terrain and its offset distance from Adigrat town, potential expansion of habitants is not expected towards the site area within a short period of time. Figure 4: Facilities on site (Tele tower- satellite receiver station, transformer and Guardhouse) However, it is important to note that any possible expansion development should be limited to a reasonable distance away from the proposed landfill site; and the site should be fenced off by barbed wire for limiting access. Planting trees around the site could be an option in delineating the site area so as to form a natural boundary. The trees to be planted will also serve as buffer zone and further would minimize erosion effect. The eucalyptus trees currently on site at the downhill form a natural boundary of the site on the south-western side.,,.. Figure 5: Eucalyptus trees currently on site at the downhill 18

19 2.3. Soil and soil test pits For the purpose of Geotechnical Investigation, five test pits were dug over the site area to a maximum depth of 2.5 meters. The test pits were reasonably distributed over the site area in order to obtain maximum information on the site in-situ soil conditions. For locations of the test pits and lithologic descriptions of the in-situ geotechnical layers, reference is to be made to the attached documents. The site is dominantly constituted by loose sandy silt covering the entire site area as superficial layer, weathered basaltic gravels with some boulders underlain by dense silty sand with some gravels and slightly weathered basaltic gravels and boulders at deeper depth. All the soil layers, with the exception of the superficial layer, can be considered as competent layers with good potential bearing capacity and low compressibility. Contrarily, all the site layers are highly porous easily inviting water infiltration. From the test pit profiles, the sequence and extent of the geological layers encountered within the site area can be summarized as follows: Layer l: Light to dark, loose sandy silt (Top soil with some grass roots) The superficial layer of the site is light to dark, loose sandy silt with a thickness generally varying from 0.25 to 0.50m. This layer, being the top soil of the site, will be totally removed during excavation for the foundations of the treatment plant facilities. Layer 2: Dark brown silty sandy gravel with some basaltic boulders This layer is uniformly encountered in almost all of the test pits. The layer is encountered, generally within depth variation of 0.30 to maximum 1.80m from surface. It is dense in compactness and occasionally with some basaltic boulders. This layer will be mostly removed during excavation due to the required foundation depths for the treatment plant, usually about 1.0 to 1.50m from the existing ground surface. Typical outcrops of the basaltic gravels and boulders of this layer are mostly seen on surface at the sharp drop of the site on the south-western side as presented by the picture below. The rock material is mostly used for construction in and around Adigrat town. 19

20 Figure 6: The site with outcrops basaltic boulders on the south-western side of the site Layers 2' & 2": Silty sand with some gravels This layer is encountered in only two of the test pits as dense brown silty sand with some gravels, and decomposed and wet in trial pit TP5. Its degree of compactness is dense to very dense in both test pits. The layer is encountered within depth variation of 0.4 to 1.Om in TP2 and 1.0 to 2.5m in TP5 and considering the required foundation depths, this layer is of practical importance as it will serve as direct foundation-bearing layer partly with Layer 2 above. Layers 3: Slightly weathered basaltic gravels and boulders This is a slightly weathered basaltic gravels and boulders (product of volcanic rocks), which has been encountered in most of the test pits generally within depth variation of 1.0 to 2.50m from surface and at shallow depth between 0.6 to 1.0m in trial pit TP5. Considering its depth of occurrence, at the areas where Layers 2, 2' and 2" are not existent, Layer 3 will serve as foundationbearing layer for the treatment plant. It should be also noted that this layer is relatively a competent layer compared to Layers 2, 2' and 2" described above. Layer 4: Slightly weathered basaltic boulders This layer is the most competent layer of the site, which is encountered below depth variation of 2.0 to 2.5m from surface. It is uniformly encountered in all of the test pits at deeper depths and its extent was not ascertained during the Geotechnical Investigation as digging of the test pits was terminated at refusal depths due the presence of this layer. 20

21 Figure 7: Typical Test Pit profile and demonstration at deeper depths (Layer 4) 2.4. Description of the sanitary landfill Project The Adigrate solid waste management system consists of Sanitary landfill, leachate evaporation pond, inter-facility access road and other ancillary structures as solid waste management units. The sanitary landfill construction project will be lying on an area of 6.97 hectare. The required landfill area is calculated on the assumption that all the waste generated during the design year will collected and disposed on the landfill site. The effective waste depth is taken to be 4.3(considering waste to soil ratio of 7:1 and overall depth of 5m). There is sufficient area for the facility for the entire design horizon. The life of the landfill assumed to use for 20 years and could be further increased by applying waste minimization and alternative waste management systems discussed as integrated waste management systems Sanitary Landfill The design of sanitary landfill is conducted to ensure the basic objective of providing appropriate Solid Waste Management System. The landfill is provided with liner to restrict contaminant flow to the ground, and under drain system to collect and convey percolated leachate to the treatment unit. 21

22 ,,,, Figure 8: Sanitary Landfill detail Site Layout Sanitary landfill designed in such a way that provide daily cover for fresh refuse, incorporate mitigate measures to manage leachate and gas produced within the landfill cells, provide for a final soil and vegetative cover, and establish an environmental monitoring system of up gradient and down gradient groundwater monitoring wells and surface water sampling locations leachate Management "" The fundamental approach in controlling and collecting leachate is to confine the leachate within the limit of the landfill and then collect for disposal Thus, provision of liner is necessary. The liner confines the leachate to the landfill periphery, a system that removes the leachate and conveys to appropriate disposal facility is also incorporated in this design as a leachate collection system. 22

23 Therefore, this design adopts treatment of leachate by evaporation due to high evaporation rate and very small annual precipitation. The leachate pond could be constructed to provide stabilization ponds treatment system by providing central partition. The volume is calculated to accommodate the leachate volume to be generated in the two rainy months, and evaporation is expected to provide extra treatment Gas Management System Gas venting through end of pipe and gradual installation of intermediate vents during facility operation is recommended. The details of the intermediate gas vents with installation are shown on the project drawings Ancillary Facilities Guardhouse: - In order to keep the guard attendant on the site the guardhouse has to be constructed at the disposal site. A fulltime attendant must be needed to monitor the landfill site. Roads: all weather access road as shown on the design drawing has to be constructed. Surface water management: - Control of storm water runoff at landfill disposal facility is provided to minimize the potential of environmental damage due to storm water run-on and runoff. The site drainage is mainly fall in the landfill, and very small catchment that could generate runoff is from access road and peripheries. This is discharged to downstream forest Sanitary Landfill Operation The operating plan for solid waste management at sanitary landfill is typically the management of working phase. The working face is the area presently being worked with new refuse being deposited and compacted into it. Once the working face has been completed and daily cover material is provided it is compacted or daily cell. If the landfill is not expected to receive additional wastes closer activates must begin within 30 days the final receipt of the waste. The minimum width of the working phase or daily cell is set to be wide enough to accommodate as many trucks or vehicles expected to be at the landfill at a given time typically 3 to 4.5m per truck. The working phase should be kept as small as possible because it is this area that can attract birds, provide visual problems for passer-by, and became a source of blowing paper, keeping a freshly deposited refuse in well defined and small working face is a good indication of a well operated landfill. 23

24 A landfill operator has to carefully plan and control the following waste management activities. Waste unloading The waste should only be unloaded on active or working face. ~ Incoming vehicles should be inspected to identify and isolate unacceptable wastes (hazardous bulky wastes ) ~ The unloading activity should spread waste on a working face followed by compaction. First layer fill: - to protect the FML precautions has to be taken while placing the first layer of waste. The first operations layer should be selected waste. Selected waste includes household waste but not demolition and land clearing debris or other materials that may damage the liner system. Compaction of the first fill should also be carefully monitored and controlled to avoid Leachate collection and removal pipe break. Compaction: - The waste has to be spread in their layer of 70cm and compacted with 3 to 5 passes of compactor on slopes of about 3:1 (H:V). Daily cover: - The daily cover ( 15cm) should be placed on all exposed solid waste at the end of each operating day. Intermediate cover: - It is placed on top and side slope of an advancing lift which will not receive additional waste for at least two month. It should consist at least 30 em compacted low permeability soil. Interim cover: - It is placed on the landfill waste that reaches final elevations before final cover installation. During rainy season it has to be placed immediately after cell reaches final elevations. Special wastes Hazardous and bulky wastes should not be disposed on the site. These special wastes include:..,. 24

25 1. Build Berm, Dump garbage near the berms,.,.,.-===~~,,!j~t~~~f~~'~,,,~,,,,,~s~'~j ~l't)j~ ~ll~r~~~~~ 2. Drive over the Garbage 3 to 5 :: times. Work the garbage up the berm. 3. Alternate between dumping and packing until the lift height is obtained 5. Repeat steps 1 to 4 until sites are full. Then cover daily material until top is level 6. Build new berms on top of the cells 7. Repeat steps 1 to 5 8. Put final cover if no garbage is expected to close the site Figure 9: Landfill operational Procedures 25

26 3. Policy, Legislatives and Institutional Framework 3.1. Policy Framework The implementation of the project should be realized incompliance with the available norms and standards, policy guidelines, legal and institutional frame works. Projects to be implemented under the (Urban Local Government Development Plan (ULGDP) should adhere to acceptable environmental and social safeguards. The projects should, as far as possible, not result in significant disturbance of sensitive ecological resources. It should not result in involuntary resettlement and land acquisition, and where this is necessary it is minimized by exploring all viable alternatives and where it is unavoidable, compensatory programs are prepared and implemented Conservation Strategy of Ethiopia Countrywide study of the existing natural resource base and environmental conservation and protection strategies have been conducted in the early 1990's and conservation strategy of Ethiopia (CSE) has been approved. The CSE emphasizes the importance of incorporating environmental issues in to development activities right at the initial stage of development Tigray Regional state Conservation Strategy Conservation strategy of Tigray Regional State, the regional state has recently prepared region specific conservation strategy based on the conservation Strategy of Ethiopia (CSE). The methodologies and contents of the document focus on similar issues as that of the federal Conservation strategy, except that region specific details are focused in this case Environmental policy of Ethiopia 1111 The environmental policy Ethiopia (EPE) of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia was approved by the Council of Ministers in April 1997 (EPA/MEDAC 1997). It is based on the CSE which was developed through a consultative process over the period The policy has the broad aim of rectifying previous policy failures and deficiencies which, in the past, have led to serious environmental degradation. It is fully integrated and compatible with the overall long-term economic development strategy of the country, known as Agricultural Development-Led Industrialization (ADLI), and other key national policies. The EPE's overall policy goal may be summarized in terms of the improvement and enhancement of the health and quality of life of all Ethiopians, and the... 26

27 promotion of sustainable social and economic development through the adoption of sound environmental management principles. Specific policy objectives and key guiding principles are set out clearly in the EPE, and expand on various aspects of the overall goal. The policy contains sectoral and cross-sectoral policies and also has provisions required for the appropriate implementation of the policy itself Sectoral Policies Several detailed sectoral environmental policies are currently in various stages of preparation, or are completed and endorsed. Some of the sectoral environmental policies cover: Soil husbandry and sustainable agriculture Forest woodland and tree resources Genetic species and ecosystem bio-diversity Water, energy and mineral resources Human settlement, urban environment and environmental health Pollution from industrial waste and hazardous materials Atmospheric pollution and climatic change Cultural and natural heritage Water resource and sanitation policies and legislatives Ethiopian Water Resources Management Policy (EWRMP), 1997 deals with the general water resources management policy and different sub sectoral issues; Water supply and sanitation, irrigation development, & hydropower. The policy, under section discusses the issue of environment, water shade management and water resources protection and conservation issues. The policy discusses the sanitation policy under the water supply and sanitation sub sector. The policy among other issues emphasizes the adoption and promotion of affordable and culturally acceptable low cost sanitation technology options, setting of frameworks, coordination of efforts and encouraging involvement of stakeholders both government and non government institutions, the integration of water supply and sanitation, need for setting frame works affirming the inseparable nature of water supply and sanitation activities and need for decentralized approaches for sanitation projects implementation and management are some of the guiding principles indicated in the policy. The general policies of FORE, MOWR, and Ethiopian Water Resource Management Policy 1999 are extracted and summarized below, 27

28 ~ Recognize that water supply and sanitation services are inseparable and integrate the same at all levels through sustainable and coherent framework. ~ Promote the "User Pays" principle for urban water supply and sanitation services. ~ Promote as far as possible that the development as well as the operation and maintenance of water supply and sanitation systems are carried out at decentralized and appropriate body. ~ Ensure efficient and sustainable management of water supply and sanitation system by avoiding fragmented management on one hand and at the same time by avoiding over-centralization of management. ~ Create conducive situations for the participation of all stakeholders in integrated water supply and sanitation activities and legalize the same. ~ Develop national standards, guidelines and procedures on the different aspects of urban water supply and sanitation. ~ Work in partnership with all concerned for water supply, drainage and wastewater master plans in major urban areas and prepare water supply and sanitation strategies in rural and other urban centers. ~ Ensure that water supply and sanitation financing is based on established set of criteria that incorporate the relevant factors The Health Policy of Ethiopia The health policy under its articles; Article 3.4 reads developing safe disposal of human, house hold, agricultural, and industrial wastes, and encouragement of recycling. Article 5.3 reads prevention of environmental pollution with hazardous chemical wastes Public health proclamation No 200/2000 was promulgated by the Federal Republic of Ethiopia on 9th march The proclamation is meant to promote the participation of the society in the health sector and enforce the objectives of the health policy of Ethiopia. The proclamation under its part -II discuses public health issues including; Food quality control, water quality control, waste handling and disposal, Availability of toilet facilities, control of bathing places and pools etc. The article which deals with waste handling and disposal further elaborates that; Any person shall collect waste in a specially designated place and in a manner which does not affect the health of the society. No person shall dispose solid, liquid or another waste in a manner which contaminates the environment or affects the health of the society. 28 "".. -

29 Any solid, liquid and other wastes generated from hospitals should be handled with special care and their disposal procedures should meet the standards set by the public health authorities National Hygiene and Sanitation Strategy for Ethiopia The strategy is set as a road map which leads to 100% adoption of improved sanitation and hygiene in Ethiopia. The 100% adoption of improved sanitation and hygiene is defined from Ethiopia's perspective as the process where people demand, develop and sustain a hygienic and healthy environment for themselves by erecting barriers to prevent the transmission of diseases, primarily from faecal contamination. The strategy paper further elaborates that improved sanitation and hygiene is about erecting physical and behavioral barriers to stop contamination, and emphasizes that the primary barriers have the biggest preventive impacts and concentrate on the safe management of faeces to prevent contact with fields, fluids, fingers, feet, flies and food National Hygiene and On-site Sanitation Protocol The protocol is designed to follow the national strategy for universal access ( 100% hygienic and sanitized households) of hygiene and sanitation. It is primarily concerned with the safe 'On- site' containment and management of human excreta in the domestic, institutional and public context. The objective of the protocol is described as to improve implementation of the National Strategy for Hygiene and 'on -site' Sanitation improvement at Local Authority level. The protocol gives a clear set of guidelines for all stakeholders promoting Improved Hygiene and Sanitation (HIS), leading to better co-ordination and clearer lines for responsibility at the national, regional, zonal and woreda (district) levels.! Strengthen the integration of all programs with an HIS components within woreda development plans and the health extension services program. : Provide the basis for a comprehensive budgeting and investment frame work! Improve sector co-ordination with all HIS stakeholders working from one set of guidelines! Define minimum standards and a frame work for information management and monitoring to ensure adequate sub sector performance evaluation. The protocol will be applied in all aspects of Hygiene and sanitation promotion. It will ensure that all development partners and NGOs adhere to the protocol when promoting improved hygiene and 'on-site' sanitation in each locality. 29

30 The protocol is a simple eight step guide to the improved Hygiene and on - site sanitation program cycle. These steps are to be followed by all those engaged in promoting Hygiene and on -site sanitation improvements in Ethiopia. The eight steps are briefly outlined as Step; 1) Participatory situation analyses, 2) Advocacy, 3) Inter-sectoral broad based planning(reflecting mandates), 4) Human resource development, supervision, reporting, 5) Financing Improved Hygiene and Sanitation, 6)HIS promotion, empowerment and enforcement, 7) Access to hardware for latrines and 8) Monitoring and evaluation linked Information management system World Bank Safe guard Policies There are 1 0 safeguard policy frameworks set for projects financed by the World Bank fund, and are required to be met as regards to environmental and social safeguards. These include; OP/BP 4.01 Environmental Assessment, OP/BP 4.04 Natural Habitats, OP/BP 4.36 Forests, OP 4.09 Pest Management, OP /BP 4.11, Physical Cultural Resources, OP /BP Indigenous Peoples, OP/BP 4.12 Involuntary Resettlement, OP/BP 4.37 Safety of Dams, OP 7.50 Projects in International Waters, OP 7.60 Projects in Disputed Areas 3.2. Legal Frameworks Federal Environment related proclamations Environmental impact assessment Proclamation No. 299/2002 is promulgated in December 2002 Environmental Protection Organs Establishment proclamation No. 295/ 2002 was provided in October Environmental pollution control proclamations NO. 300/2002 sets rules on control of pollution, management of hazardous waste, chemical and radioactive substances, management of municipal wastes, outlines sectors that require environmental standard, environmental inspectors, incentives, rights to appeal, Offences and penalty. Solid waste management proclamation No.513/2007 is issued on 13th February of 2007 to enhance the capacities at all level to prevent the possible adverse impacts while creating economically and socially beneficial assets out of solid waste. 11! Regional level Proclamations and regulations The Tigray Regional State Waste Management Proclamation, Proclamation 191 /2003 Hygiene & Environmental Sanitation Regulation of Tigray Regional State (Regulation No.4/1989) Tigray Regional State proclamation No77 /199, April This proclamation establishes the Tigray Natural Resource, Land 30

31 Administration and Environmental Protection Bureau of the regional state. The bureau is delegated to handle environmental and natural resource issues by this proclamation; and the objectives, duties and responsibilities of the bureau have been described in the proclamation. Tigray Rural Land Administration & Tenure Rights, Tigray Regional State Proclamation No. 97 I The following rights and obligations are stated in the proclamation. Article 18(1) declares that land is a common property of the state and the people. However, a landholder with proper documentation (land registration and documentation) can rent half of his holdings to the third party according to article 6(1) and 6(3) and have a right to transfer his holdings to his offspring's or as a gift to any person in accordance with article 11 ( 1). Article 16 ( 1) (2) limits the lowest land holdings as 0.25 hectares and 2 hectares as the highest respectively. Tigray Forestry Conservation, Protection and Utilization regulation, Regulation No.14/ 2003 is promulgated by the Tigray regional council in December, The regulation discuses the natural resources and forest degradation impacts caused by the imbalance between the supply and demand (high demands for forest wood as energy sources and low level of availability) of the forest resource; and due to exploitation for construction material. The regulation highlights the need for protection, conservation and proper utilization of the forest resources in the region. The regulation discusses the following major issues; ownership of forest resources, forest conservation responsibilities and prohibited acts, utilization of forest products, need for permissions to be requested for utilization of forest resources, list of restricted forest products, need for license to transport forest products from place to place, control mechanisms and selection of controllers for forest products etc. Reginal Strategic Plan : The Regional Environmental, natural resources and land administration bureau has prepared a 5-year strategic plan (SPM) for environmental conservation and protection measures ( ). Accordingly, 6-major activities are identified for implementation during the plan period. The activities include; Y Preparation of legal frame works and regulations and get approved by the council 31

32 ~ conduct studies on regional environmental problems ~ Organizing Demonstration programs on community based sustainable development projects and pursues its implementation through the appropriate institutions. ~ Conduct awareness creation programs on environmental conservation and protection issues. ~ Establish environmental data base of the region Institutional Set up At federal level the Ministry of Water Resources(MOWR), Ministry of Health,(MOH), Federal Environmental Protection Authority ( EPA) hold the overall responsibilities of water recourses management and environmental sanitation issues; and for policy preparation and guidance. It is also expected that federal level ministries and bureaus to provide technical support to regional water bureaus and health institutions. At regional level there are respective bureaus with delegated responsibilities and authorities to plan and implement projects. For urban centers like the Adigrat town, development of social service facilities is the responsibility of the town administration and municipalities. Accordingly, several stakeholder institutions are taking part in the sanitation service of town. Including; Adigrat Water Supply & Sewerage Authority Adigrat Sanitation, Beautification & Parks Development Agency Adigrat woreda Health department Environment and land administration offices The community The sanitation, beautification and parks development agency is directly involved in operation and regulation of the solid management services of the town. It undertakes both service delivery and development works in the waste management, greening, solid waste collection & disposal, tree plantation and also regulating of the proper implementation of the upkeeps of the sanitary conditions in the town. The SBPD agency has the following staffing and organizational set up for the solid waste management core process; A coordinator Environmental experts Supervisors at kebele level Contract and purchasing personnel Office clerk 5 street sweepers 3 cleaners/kebele and 6 sorting personnel at the disposal site 32 "'' ~ il....

33 Health bureau is responsible for health regulations, while malpractices and illegal deeds as regards to environmental sanitation are controlled by the regulatory and law enforcement department of the bureau. 4. Baseline environmental conditions 4.1. Bio-Physical Environment Location Adigrat town is located in Tigray Regional Government about 898km north of Addis Ababa, and 125km from Mekele, the Regional Capital. It is serving as Administrative capital of Eastern Tigray Zone and Ganta-Afeshum Woreda. It is also located at cross roads of Mekele-Adigrat-Zalambessa and Mekele Adigrat-Adwa highway. The geographical location of the town is 14o20' N and 39o29'E, and as per the Integrated Development Plan(IDP) report the towns influential area includes Gulumeda, Erob, Saesi Tsadaemba, Ganta Afeshum, Hawzein, Wukro and Atsbi Wenberta Weredas. The presence of a number of governmental and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and private sectors in addition to its location and access to transportation has attracted supplementary trade and commercial activities. With more to come in the design phase, these are the major economic activities that are basis and potentials of the town Topography Adigrat is bounded by a series of mountain ridges on western and northwestern and relatively flatter hills at eastern side. The town is located in relatively flat topography. Elevations within the town vary from m.a.s.l southeast and western part of the town. Generally, the topographic feature of the town makes the surrounding mountains drain towards the town. But, the town has no perennial river. The main drainage line starts at western mountain ridge towards the southeast direction. The Huga River drains the flooding created by western mountainous ridge Climate Temperature As per the Ethiopian customary climate classification, the town is classified as "Woina-Dega"; the average annual temperature varies from 15 c to 20oc 33

34 with January and June the coldest and hottest month of the year. The main rainy season -Kiremt occur from the month of July and August Rainfall The town has five rainy months; from March to May and from July to August, 48.9% of the rain occurs between July and August. The mean annual rainfall is 659.4mm, and the maximum rainfall of mm and minimum of 11.1 mm occurs at July and January respectively. Table 2 : Rainfall Data of Adigrat Month Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Annual Rainfall Source: lop Report, Wind Direction The Integrated development Plan of the town stated that the prevailing wind direction is from northwest to southeast during Bega (dry season) and the reverse direction during Kiremt (rainy season) Soil Ideally, the site should have a sufficient volume of soil to be used for all waste covering (daily intermediate and final) throughout the project life. The ease of excavation is also important to minimize cost of excavation. The design criterion that best suits operating and environmental conditions should be considered. The geo-technical investigation shows that the site soil type is predominantly sand soil that is moderately to highly permeable, this can be used as cover material after blending with top sandy clay to improve impermeability. Thus, the liner has to be imported or gee-synthetic liners will be used in the design Geology The site geology consideration will enable us not to locate landfill site is within fault areas, major fractures and other discontinuities. The regional geology reveals that the proposed site can be used for sanitary landfill construction provided that remedial measures taken to minimize environmental pollution related with leachate infiltration. iii;

35 Ground water Ground waters seasonally high table level (i.e., 10 year high) should be at least 1.5 meters below the proposed base of any excavation or site preparation to enable and fill cell development. In addition the direction of ground water drainage is important to detect potential impact areas and take remedy solution. Thus in this case, the ground water depth is reasonably safe, due to high permeability of the site; a design standard that minimizes or control flow of leachate to the ground is adopted. Further the downstream of the site has several boreholes and the leachate flow downstream should be prevented Land use in the area The site is currently a farm land with some scattered settlements on the northern, eastern and southern valley. But, they are within permissible distance. The site is located outside the city boundary in Golomehda Woreda in Tsibah kokeb kebele. Risks to public health and impacts on the areas surrounding the landfill can be limited by providing buffer zones between the landfill and sensitive areas. Some appropriate buffer distances between the facility and other land uses are: );- public roads > 1 00 meters );- Industrial developments > 200 meters );- Urban residential/commercial area> 500 meters; and );- Rural residential area > meters Local Flora and Fauna Sites that contain protected or endangered fauna and/or flora, or sensitive ecosystems are unsuitable for landfill facilities. Possible impacts on ecosystems, flora and fauna include the contamination of sensitive wetland areas by leachate. Conversely, landfills often attract large numbers of birds, which can increase the risk to public health by spreading scavenged items away from the facility. With this regard, there are no locally affected flora and fauna Water Supply The main resources of current drinking water supply for the city are from ground water boreholes that produces 351/sec. The provision of potable water is through 28 public fountains, 4,494 house connections and yard connections, 217 Government and public connections, 726 commercial connections. As per the Water Supply Office, some of the existing water supply infrastructures are too old and needs rehabilitation and expansion. 35

36 But as per the town Water Supply and Sewerage Authority sources the water supply coverage is reported to be 48.6 %. It is also reported that the coverage might increase during rainy season due to increase in yield of the boreholes. It is also reported that additional two boreholes are drilled at Maimesanu. The Water Supply Office conducts periodical water quality testing. The samples are tested in Mekele, and the test result indicates that some form of fecal coliform presence. But, we were not able to see the test results and verify whether the amount detected is within allowable limit for drinking water quality. However, it is evident that it is contributed to improper waste management. The water supply system is expected to improve with implementation of Adigrat Water Supply and Sanitation System that had been undertaken with 15 Towns Water Supply and Sanitation Project. Major well fields and sources that have been identified as potential water sources for supplying the town include; Abune Aregawi Well field Agazi well field Mai Masson wellfield Sasson well field Some of these sources have already been developed, and are supplying the own with potable water Socio-Economic Condition Population and settlements According to information from the municipality, the current population of the city is estimated at 67,500 people. The city is deficient in infrastructure development and social service facilities. Environmental Sanitation infrastructures like water supply, liquid waste and solid waste management facilities and drainages are of low coverage. However, significant efforts are being made to improve the environmental sanitation situation in the city. Institutionalizing the service provisions, enforcements of regulations and close supervision and monitoring of mal practices, implementation of infrastructure facilities and services are underway. The municipality has been providing waste management services in the town relatively for longer time; and the city development plan study has identified waste management issue as one of the major problems. Accordingly, waste management has been prioritized and the administration has set improvement strategies both for the liquid and solid waste management systems

37 Education According to the 2002 Adigrat Statistical Abstract, there are 13 government schools with 301 classrooms, 486 teachers and total enrollment of 21,340 in 2009 I 10. For private schools the corresponding numbers are 7 schools, 84 classrooms, 84 classrooms, 96 teachers and 3,810 students. In the same period there were also 10 Kindergartens with 24 classrooms, 46 teachers and 1205 pupils. The education system in Adigrat engages several thousands of pupils in governmental and nongovernmental schools. As per the information from Adigrat Educational Bureau and Adigrat Statistical Abstract Report of 2002 EC, the school units with their level and student enrollment are presented in the table below for first cycle, second cycle and high schools. In addition, there are 10 Kindergarten schools enrolling 1205 students in 2009/201 0 academic year. According to the education bureau, there are TVET, Industrial College, and two private colleges namely, Ethio-lmage and New Millennium Colleges that provide higher learning opportunities. New university is under construction by the government, and is expected to start next academic year. Source: Adigrat educational Bureau 37

38 Table 4-Number of Students, Teachers, & Class rooms in Non Governmental Schools (2009/10 G.C Tsinseta catholic 579 Kidist Luchia catholic Kidus Yaeqob catholic Orsolone catholic Source: Adigrat educational Bureau Public Health Situation Health service is a very vital social service that all people are endowed with the right to live, in addition the Ethiopian constitution Article 44 also entitles everybody the right to live in clean and safe environment. There is one general hospital and one health center in the town operated by the government, in addition there are non- governmental health institutions as shown in the table below. Officials from the Health system reported that water born diseases are prevalent and among the top ten diseases, which indicates the water supply and sanitation state of the town. Table 5-Governmental and Non-Governmental Health Institutions in 2009/10 G.C Jype. at Heatttr ~Goverr~menfal o.r~'ani afion.al Private Total...,.;;~r"!!..... ' ~. J....., }. 1.,,, 'f"fu' f.. i... >.... ' ",'?',;. ns.. ap Hospital Health Center Clinic Pharmacy 0 Drug Vendor 2 3 Rural Drug 4 4 Vendor Source: Adigrat Health Bureau The health problem and disease causes among the city population are mainly communicable diseases water and/or air born diseases. Major factor contributing to these diseases is the poor waste management and pollution impacts of both the air and water resources of the area. 38

39 Table 6- Top 10 Diseases Identified in the Town in 2009/10 G.C Gastritis Disunities Skin Infection & Subcutaneous Acute Upper Respiratory Infection Helmenthiasis Eye Conjunctivitis Dysentery Bacillary Pneumonia Bronco Pyrexia of unknown Origin Dysentery, Unspecified Gastro-interitis under 2 years Existing Solid Waste Management Practices Site visit was conducted with the objective of assessing the existing solid waste management practices in the city, and for assessment of potential sites for construction of a sanitary land fill for the city Solid Waste Collection & Transportation The solid waste management of the town is run under the office of Sanitation, Beautification and Parks (OSBP) of Adigrat Municipal administration. As per the information of this office, there is a well established organizational set up to follow up and control the proper solid waste collection both at house hold level and centrally. There is program arranged to create awareness on the principles of waste segregation in to degradable organic and none degradable material, storing and recycling for reuse of the waste. There is also house to house waste collection and transportation service provided by the office. According to information obtained from the office of Sanitation, beautification and Parks Development, it is estimated that 18,000 m3 of solid waste is generated per year in the town. Out of this quantity about 14,000m3 is said to be collected and transported to an open disposal site at Hugo. This account for 78% collection of the waste generated in the town, and is an indicator for a better performance as compared to other urban centers of Ethiopia. Domestic waste has the major share of the overall production, though there are some 1 0 industries and other commercial and establishments that also contribute to the annual waste generated. 39

40 There are 2 tractors ( of 4m3 capacity each ) and 8 animal driven carts of capacity 3m3 each that are used to collect and transport the solid waste. There are five employed street sweepers for the major roads and streets in the town; and three cleaners in each of the 6 kebeles for cleaning the streets within each of the respective kebele boundaries, while the residents also participate in cleaning their premises every Wednesday and Friday of each week. This arrangement seems to have contributed to the better performances currently observed in the town. It is a good practice provided that it is done sustainably in the future as well. No solid waste collection bins or skips are found on the open fields of the town, no temporary storage (transfer) containers are placed outside as it is practiced in most densely populated urban centers of the country. Instead, each house hold has got its own ~ucks for temporarily storing the daily solid waste generated. However, no sorting and segregating of waste has been observed at sample households visited and interviewed during the site visit, contrary to the information obtained from the OSBP. The solid waste stored in sucks is door to door collected at intervals of three days, and directly transported to the existing disposal site of Huga. This (House to disposal site operation) has significantly reduced the odour nuisances that could have been created in the premises of transfer containers to be located in open air as in most of the urban centers. Animal driven carts are mainly used to do the house to house solid waste collection and transportation to disposal site at Huga, though there are also two tractor driven trailers for collection of the waste. The sanitary condition in the city is on a better condition, and street sweepings are done regularly by employed personnel of the office, while a 2 day per week cleaning is done by each house hold in the town. Each house hold is also held responsible to keep up the sanitary conditions of their premises (within 20 meters radius of its holdings)

41 Figure 10: House Hold level Solid waste, Figure 11: House to House Collection and handling transportation to disposal site Solid Waste Treatment & Disposal There is neither arrangement nor facilities for treatment and disposal of the collected solid waste per say. All solid waste is transported and disposed on open field at a place called Hugo; located in the south western part of the town. The disposal site is bounded by a cliff on one side and by a seasonal river course on the other side. It was almost full and leveled to the surrounding ground level during the site visit. No adequate space is available for additional volume of waste to be accommodated. The location of the disposal site is unsafe both from health and aesthetics points of view. It is surrounded by sensitive an environmental component that makes the site unsuitable for waste disposal. Some these factors include; The disposal site is adjacent to the Adigrat - Mekele asphalt road, at about 1 00 meters off set distance, causing odor nuisance to the passerby road users. This disposal place is also located adjacent and at upstream side of a seasonal river; and part of the waste is seen spread within the stream course as well. There are houses and children play ground within 1 00 meters radius of the disposal site. The waste is manually spread, and some part is burned at intervals on site. Informal segregation of the waste is done by bare handed scavengers on the site, which can pose health risks to those vulnerable groups. The dour from the site can have significant health problems to the surrounding residents as well as to the adjacent road users. 41

42 Figure 12: Existing disposal site at Figure 13 :Houses Within 1OOm Figure 14: water source downstream of Hugo radius from disposal site disposal site Impacts due to the current solid waste disposal practice In spite of the significant improvement being observed as regards to the solid waste collection operation; the disposal method and disposal facilities remain unchanged and is still posing risks to both the natural and socioeconomic environment. Problems due to the current solid waste management practices are those related to o Public health impacts o Water source pollution o Air pollution o Soil pollution and o Aesthetics The surrounding community complains of the odor, health and safety risks to animals, children and aesthetically debilitating situation created at such a close proximity to the residential site and main road side. The plastics and smoke due to burning of the waste is posing risks to the public health. The odor poses significant health risks to the surrounding dwellers and road users. During the site visit it could be observed that scavengers were busily sorting reusable material bare hand and without protective facilities. The odor emanating from the waste is affecting the health of the surrounding community; leachate from the waste deposited enters the stream water course at downstream and is polluting the water source, stagnate at some points creating favorable ground for mosquito breeding. Moreover, the leachate gradually percolates into the ground water sources and can have potential for polluting the sources. Aesthetically the damping area is filthy and odorous, to the extent that passerby people cannot bear breathing in the area.,, 42

43 4. Analyses of Alternatives The location of a landfill is a primary determinant of the extent to which a landfill poses an environmental risk. Judicious location of a landfill is the single most effective environmental management tool. The aim is to avoid the need for impact mitigation and ongoing management by selecting a site where natural barriers protect environmental quality and where there will not be adverse impact on existing and future development. Four potential sites ( Site -1, Gula Gnahity, Site -2 : Qersa Ber, Godba Got, Site-3 Qersa Ber, Mai Negesti Got,and Site- 4 Qersa Ber Mai Masson ) were visited and assessment for their suitability as a sanitary landfill was evaluated. Figure 15 : Alternative Site Locations Arround the Town Site -1: Gula Genahqity Got The site is located in Gula Genahaity kebele and has the following environmental characteristics; It is found at about 4 kms distance from town center, It is located at an elevated ground and within same watershed as that of Adigrat town,. no properly paved vehicular access road to the site The major land use is cultivated crop field and animal grazing ground. 43

44 It is surrounded by houses and population settlement sites Runoff flows from upper catchment towards the site No perennial river or stream in close proximity and within the micro watershed, There are plantation tree hedges along the access track to the site, the access track road traverses close to religious establishments, pharmaceutical industry and a military camp Site -2: Qersa Ber Kebele-Godba Got This site is found in Qersa Ber kebele, Godba Got, and has the following environmental conditions; It if found at 9 kms distance in the northern part of the city, RHS offset 500meters of the Adigrat- Zalambessa road. It is located outside of the city's watershed, Existing Land use is cultivated crop field Located on Hill top /elevated ground I surrounded by plantation trees (eucalyptus trees) grown on terraced slope sides. No settlement is found in the proximity of the proposed site, but at far distances in the adjacent depressed ground (foot of the hill) and away from the identified plot. No water source in close proximity of the site No dense vegetation cover within the plot limit is expected to be removed. But plantation trees exist surrounding the field on the eastern side that can serve as barriers for odor prevention. Electric poles, satellite receiver station and a transformer are found within the limits of the plot of land. Site-3: Qersa Ber, Mai Negesti Got This site is found in Qersa Ber Kebele, at a place called Mai Negesti mender, and has the following characteristics; Located adjacent to an existing road, LHS at 8 km distance from the center of the city. Densely settled, and intensively cultivated crop field exists Potential for ground Water sources, and developed water well exists in the field Fertile farmland for annual crop production Dense vegetation cover and agro forestry in the fields Site- 4 :Qersa Ber Mai Masanu 44..

45 This site is found at about 7 km distance from the center town, LHS of the Adigrat -Zalanbessa road. It has the following environmental settings; Plain farmland seasonally water inundated/ seasonal wetland, bounded by elevated ground/a hill I on one side. Has high groundwater potential, and has been identified as well field (Mai Masson Well field) for the water supply of Adigrat town There are already developed and capped boreholes as water supply source. Settlements at hill sides surrounding the site and a school (Lequai school) within the command area of the site A seasonal stream within the command area Dispersed Plantation trees and acacia trees within the plot of land. The analyses for the alternative potential landfill sites are based on comparative evaluation of expected significant impacts as illustrated in table- below. The check list is rated as Positive (+) impacts or negative (-) impacts expected of the project, depending on site specific conditions. The detail comparative analysis is presented in site selection section of this report, and detail presentation is not considered to avoid repetition. Table 7: Comparative evaluation of the Potential Sanitary Landfill sites Environmental factors likely to be adversely Net of affected environmental I U E Q> E (i)""o""o (i) >-..C (i) (]) >- 0 - impacts u E c c '+-c~ Site 2c:~ > c: Name of site -(])- 0 0 ::J (]) ::J N..0 ~(])::;:::.2 u Rank No. (]) u c (/) c E..c..0 0 u (]) (])... u ~ 0... ~ E Qj a c 0 0) u ::J (]) (]) > c... 0 V) V) > u 0 (]) 0... co 1 Gula Ganahity (Qersa Ber), Godba Got 3 (Qersa Ber), Mai Negesti Got 4 Mai Masson According to the relative evaluation result of the above table, the adverse environmental impacts posed due to the sanitary land fill will be least for site- 2 ( site located at Qersa Ber, Godba Got). This site is ranked as 1st from environmental protection points of view, and is prioritized for implementation of the project at this location. However, distance to be covered is the furthest for this alternative (9km), while distance is 8km, 7km, and 4km for Mai Negesti, Mai Hason and Gula Ganhity respectively. 45

46 7. Potential Environmental Impacts of Project The implementation of the landfill project can have both positive and negative impacts on the environment; both natural and socio-economic environment. The environmental issues of primary concern in relation to land filling and landfill operations are: ~ Water pollution - i.e. discharges of pollutants to ground and surface waters. ~ Air pollution- i.e. emissions of pollutants to the atmosphere ~ Land management and conservation ~ Hazards and loss of amenity ~ Bird strike Risks ~ Public health risks These impacts and concerns are observed mainly during the operation and site closure of landfills. However, impacts during construction of the land fill and access road can also be caused to other environmental components and properties in the Right- Of- Way of the project Positive impacts of the project The solid waste collection and storage within the town and at house hold level is gradually improving in Adigrat town. However, the disposal of the solid waste is posing significant adverse impacts on the environment and as well on the public health. The solid waste collected is haphazardly dumped at open field and adjacent to a seasonal river; also very close to residential site and close to the major trunk road of Adigrat- Mekele asphalt road. Due to its location and proximity to those sensitive sites, it is posing environmental, health and aesthetic risks. The implementation of the landfill project will alleviate all those problems and create conducive living environment in the area. The town water supply is totally dependent on the ground water sources, and risk of pollution to water sources by solid waste leachate is unbearable. Properly designed sanitary land fill will minimize this impact. Development in trade and tourism in the area, demands standard sanitation infrastructure, which can have significant promotional and enhancement impacts of the local economy However, land filling of waste can also pose adverse impacts to the environmental resources and to socio-economic welfare of the community, if not properly planned, designed, constructed and operated to meet the intended objectives. Major adverse impacts of solid waste landfill are discussed under the following section

47 7.2. Adverse impacts of the Project The adverse impacts of implementing the landfill project can be caused both during construction and operation phases. Construction phase impacts are related to site clearance, excavation, material site development and spoil soils disposal. Major impacts will be felt at the landfill site, along the access road to the site and at material production sites. Operation phase impacts on the other hand, are mainly observed in the premises of the landfill site and along the waste haulage road route. These adverse impacts are manifested in the form of loss of vegetation cover, soil erosion, loss of properties and crops, water source pollution, air pollution, risks to public health and safety, landscape & aesthetics problem. Hence, landfill design, monitoring, management and remediation must comply with the respective migration management plan to minimize the anticipated adverse impacts and to comply with the desired environmental goals Impacts on water sources During construction excavated soil may get into water sources and cause water quality deterioration and siltation problem. Spoil soils generate from ground excavation for landfill, paving and grading for access roads and at material production sites. During operation phase of the landfill; ground and surface waters can be contaminated by untreated leachate from landfill sites. Leachate percolates through landfills as a result of infiltration and/or decomposition of the wastes. It may cause serious water pollution if it is not properly managed. The hydro geological characteristics of a site will have a critical bearing on the need for and nature of measures to control leachate. If a landfill is located in an area with permeable substrata, any leachate generated will rapidly pollute the groundwater (and even surface water} unless an adequate barrier system is installed. The potential damage by leachate can also be more critical if the landfill is located in a drinking water catchment, in a flood way subject to washout, or in a high rainfall area. Surface water run-off from a landfill site can cause unacceptable sediment loads in receiving waters, while uncontrolled surface water run-on can lead to excessive generation of leachate. Hence site selection for locating a landfill plays important role for properly functioning plant Air Pollution Impacts Landfills primarily produce methane and carbon dioxide which, if not contained, can contribute to the 'greenhouse effect'. Unmanaged gas emissions also represent a lost energy/fuel source. Landfill gas can also contain a variety of corrosive, toxic or odorous components. Methane represents an explosion risk which may occur on-site or off-site. 47

48 Impact on Vegetation cover and Wildlife Resources The plot of land selected for the landfill has no significant vegetation cover, and has already been cleared for crop production. Only few acacia trees are found dispersed in the crop fields The few trees removed due to the project should be compensated for the owners in monitory terms, but also replacement trees have to be planted at sites to be reserved as buffer zone around the landfill. Trees can reduce impacts due to odor and smell in the premises of the landfill Impact on Land resource and Soil Erosion Plots of land selected as a landfill will be removed from the stock of land available in the area during the life of the landfill. This plot of land would have otherwise been put for other productive uses as crop production, animal grazing, a forestation etc. The excavation operations both for the landfill, the access roads and other facilities erection can expose the land surface to erosion effects Public Health and Safety Impacts The workers engaged on the landfill operation may be exposed to contamination and to water born communicable diseases related to the waste. Y Respiratory tract infection can be posed due to odour problem at the site. Significant odor problems could be caused by the operation of the landfill. The major odor is due to the rotten organics, garbage and dead animals brought to the site and are mainly felt during dumping of the waste. The unsanitary conditions at a poorly managed landfill site can pose filth and odour problem in the compound. > Odour can also be due to the release of decomposition products of organic wastes. Gaseous products like methane and carbon Dioxide are produced due to the anaerobic decomposition of the waste (organic material). These gases are toxic substance for human health. Though there is no major settlement around the proposed landfill site, odour generated from the site could be a major annoyance to few number of people and housing units located some kilometers away from the site. The severity of the odor nuisances could hinder the future development potential of the neighboring land use. Odor will be realized by the nearby residents when prevailing winds are towards their residences. The odour from the works will not travel too far downwind but will definitely affect the surrounding properties... 48

49 Y Contaminated food ingestion may be cause for the labourers engaged on the work, if adequate hand washing is not practiced on regular bases. Y Skin disease may be a problem among workers exposed to the waste with bare hand and body Hazardous and Loss of Amenity Hazardous wastes pose the most significant management challenge given their higher potential to cause harm as a result of their: flammability corrosively potential to cause infection Reactivity (violently reactive, oxidizing or explosive) Toxicity. Landfills can also cause a localized loss of amenity due to_litter, dust, and odour, noise, and vermin problems. Proximity to existing and proposed developments and the strength_and direction of prevailing winds will be key issues in this regard. The potential hazards and amenity impacts from landfills include fire, birds, dust, odour, pests, vermin and litter. Each of these potential impacts may occur on-site or offsite Impacts Due to Accidental Fire and Traffic load Fire accident can be caused either due to flammable materials brought along with the solid waste or due to gasses (like methane) emitted from the landfill itself as a decomposition product of the waste. The traffic load will increase in the rural area where the landfill operates. Numbers of trucks makes several trips to the plant every day. In addition, those trucks share the same road route used by heavy trucks and machineries operating in the area. The dust pollution and noise disturbance can also pose some adverse impacts to the workers and to passerby road users. Sometimes, there might be traffic accidents that might result in loss of life and damage to property both during construction and operation phase of facility. 8. Mitigation Measures 8.1. Mitigation measures for Impacts on water sources A void entry of spoil soil in to water body by timely carting and stockpiling at designated disposal site. Site selection should avoid catchments where water sources are located as far as possible. Leachate must be controlled within the landfill site, ensuring that neither groundwater nor surface water is polluted. The design has to consider leachate treatment facilities within the land fill design project and at the same location. The treatment of the leachate should enable to prevent 49

50 pollutants' migration into the water sources; either by percolation into ground water source or by runoff into surface water body. A leachate treatment pond can stabilize the pollutants by natural processes, while infiltration is avoided by use of proper sealant material for the pond bottom. In addition, adequate side drainage facility should be provided to avoid run on and runoff water from the landfill areas Detecting water pollution Effective mechanisms must be developed for early detection of groundwater and surface water pollution. It is not economical to recommend separate monitoring well for water sampling for this specific project. The land fill operator should liase with the regional water Bureau and share the expertise and laboratory facilities to conduct the monitoring of the likely impacts on the water quality of the surrounding water sources. Therefore; all other sectoral offices like the Environmental Protection Authority (REPA), Water bureau, Agricultural and rural development Offices, and Health Bureaus should coordinate and assist in monitoring the water quality of the surrounding and downstream community water sources and water wells. The land fill operator should collect samples from identified sampling sites every quarter or six months, and check for possible leakage of leachate in the water resource. Any detected groundwater or surface water pollution needs to be speedily remediated Mitigation measure for Air Pollution Impacts So precautionary measures are essential while dealing with landfill site operation; landfill design, monitoring, management and remediation must comply with the following Environmental Goals: Landfill gas must be controlled in such a way that: it does not reach explosive concentrations Greenhouse gas emissions are minimized Landfill gas is sustainably utilized Odorous emissions meet relevant environmental legislation Airborne impurities, pathogens and toxins do not pose health risk to the community. The design of the sanitary landfill that confines the migration of leachate in the landfill peripheries and, that consists of daily cover during the operation of the facility is adopted. The daily cover reduces odour, prevents scavenging, and facilitate organic decomposition due to attenuation character of the cover material. Therefore, the air pollution through odour could be prevented by implementation of all measures recommended by the study. '' -.,.. 50

51 8.3. Mitigation measures for Impact on Land resource and Soil Erosion All land is valuable, and the impact of its use as landfill needs to be sustainable. Proper care of a landfill as a valuable asset should result in efficient remediation, enabling land to be used for other purposes following closure. Land management and conservation goals include diverting waste materials that can be re-used or recycled from landfills to minimize the loss of capacity, and managing the site to ensure that unsuitable wastes are not received and that the nature of wastes that are received is known. Landfill design, construction, management, monitoring, and remediation must comply with the following; ~ During construction phase; the land area disturbed should be limited to the area of land that is essentially required for the facilities' (the landfill and access road) construction. Land area exposed to erosion effects should be rehabilitated by grassing and vegetation cover. Proper drainage should be provided to minimize soil erosion by runoff water. ~ All design, construction and operation activities must be carried out in accordance with a quality system acceptable to the environmental conservation goals and objectives. ~ The land fill must receive only those wastes that cause no harm to the environment, and due diligence should be exercised in screening hazardous material from incoming wastes. ~ The nature and quantity of all wastes received must be known and recorded. ~ Landfill space must be used optimally, and valued as a scarce resource. ~ Maximize recycling of material to minimize land size required Operational and post-closure procedures must ensure that the former landfill site can be used by the community for other beneficial purposes as soon as practicable after land filling is completed 8.4. Mitigation measures for Public Health and Safety Impacts To minimize such health hazards, proper safety and precautionary procedures need to be followed. Measures include; training and awareness creation programs for workers on safe waste handling and hazards protection measures, provision of protective cloths and devices like gloves, goggles, protective cloths, provision of adequate water and soaps for bathing, and adequate bathrooms to enable them day to day bathing after work, their periodical health check-ups, vaccinations etc. The workers should have free health services and medical checkups. 51

52 Condition maintenance in the landfill is essential for proper and effective degradation of the pollutants. Monitoring and control of the landfill operation and process adjust Mitigation measures for Hazardous and Loss of Amenity Landfill design, constructions, monitoring, management and remediation must comply with the following Environmental Goals: o The waste type received should be checked before acceptance at the landfill. Hazardous waste should be treated separately and should not be allowed for direct disposal at municipal waste landfill o Unauthorized entry to the landfill site and to the waste tipping face needs to be prevented. o Vehicles leaving a landfill site must not distribute litter and site materials in surrounding streets. Odors, dust, vermin, weeds and litter must be effectively controlled on-site. o Noise emissions from the landfill operation must be kept to the minimum and must comply with noise control requirements of the localities. o The landfill site must have adequate fire-fighting plans, equipment and staff to effectively manage fire outbreaks at any part of the landfill site. o The level and nature of staffing the landfill site must be adequate for environmentally responsible and safe management of the landfill. ~' f 8.6. Mitigation measure for fire Accidental and Traffic load Fire accident should be prevented by taking the proper measures and preparatory works in advance; these measures should include controlling type of waste received at the land fill, preventing gas emissions from the land fill; assuring quality of design, construction and Operation of the landfill, organizing adequate fire-fighting capacity and providing adequate staffing and training for the workers. The design and construction of landfill should provide properly designed gas release or collector pipe to minimize fire risk due to gas emission from the decomposition of the waste. All fuels or flammable solvents for operational use should be stored in an appropriately ventilated and secure store. This store should be located on unfilled land, and all flammable liquids should not be stored full tank, but with 52,

53 provisions of open volume so that any release of raw or burning fuel would not cause a fire in the filled waste. Therefore, strict traffic regulations should be put in place and traffic signals posted at critical locations along the route and within the plant compound. Bumpers and speed breakers need to be constructed at the approach of, and within the plant compound 9. Environmental Management and Monitoring plan The challenge in landfill management is to address environmental concerns by achieving the environmental goals set out in sections above. The goals are geared towards: preventing water pollution Minimizing public health impacts Minimizing damages to flora and fauna resources preventing air pollution promoting responsible land management and conservation Minimizing property losses Preventing hazards and loss of amenity. The environmental management for the landfill will be a performance-based site assessment and management to ensure landfill operators select the most appropriate and innovative means of meeting the specified environmental goals. Accordingly, the landfill Environmental Management will have to comply with the following environmental goals; Preventing or mitigating pollution of water by leachate. Assuring quality of design, construction and operation Assuring quality of incoming waste Recording of wastes received Minimizing landfill space used Controlling gas emission Maximization of recycling Preventing unauthorized entry Preventing degradation of local amenity Preventing noise pollution Arranging adequate fire-fighting capacity organizing adequate staffing and training Remediating landfill after closure 53

54 Table 8: Summary of Major impacts and proposed Mitigating Measures Project Stage Project Activity Potential Environmental Impacts Proposed Mitigation Measures Institutional Responsibilities Cost Estimates Construction Phase Operation Construction Operation Excavation of soil and earth works Untreated leachate construction landfill sites pond from Dumping of solid waste on the landfill site Spoil soils generate from ground excavation for landfill, paving and grading for access roads get into water sources and cause water quality deterioration and siltation _moblem. Leachate percolates through landfills as a result of infiltration and/or decomposition of the waste It cause serious ground and surface water pollution and contamination Noise and dust releases of heavy construction machines and vehicles will affect residents and businesses in the neighborhoods -Produce methane and carbon dioxide can contribute to the 'greenhouse effect'. -Landfill gas can also contain a variety of corrosive, toxic or A void entry of spoil soil in to water body by timely carting and stockpiling at designated disposal site. Site selection should avoid catchments where water sources are located as far as possible. contractor -A leachate treatment pond can stabilize -Contractor the pollutants by natural processes, while -City infiltration is avoided by use of proper sealant material for the pond bottom. In administration addition, adequate side drainage facility -REPA should be provided to avoid run on and runoff water from the landfill areas. -Detection of groundwater and surface water pollution The land fill operator should collect samples from identified sampling sites every quarter or six months, and check for possible leakage of leachate in the water resource Ensure vehicles and earth moving I contractor machines have their mufflers intact. - Limit earth moving machineries from working in late night hours - Sprinkle water on dust roads frequently on day time. -Landfill gas must be controlled in such a I contractor way that: Greenhouse gas emissions are minimized With sustainably utilized for energy. -The landfill The daily cover with 15 em Include in the contract 10,000 Include in the contract Include in the contract. '. ' "". ' ' '. ',;..,..... "'.. 54

55 odorous components. 1 thick of soil reduces odour, prevents scavenging, and facilitate organic decomposition due to attenuation character of the cover material. The air pollution through odour could be prevented. construction I Excavation of soil I The plot of land which selected -Replacement of trees have to be I City and earth works for the landfill has lead to cleared planted at sites to be reserve as buffer administration Construction vegetation cover and crop zone around the landfill and trees can production. reduce impacts due to odor and smell in the premises of the landfill. -Ensure that PAPs have been timely and adequately compensated and relocation/ or replacements are given in time. The excavation The excavation of both for the - Land area exposed to erosion effects both for the landfill, landfill, the access roads and should be rehabilitated by grassing and the access roads other facilities erection can vegetation cover. and other facilities expose the land surface to -Proper drainage should be provided to erosion effects. minimize soil erosion by runoff water. City administration contractor 241, ,000 Operation Operation Segregation and -Respiratory tract infection can -Training and awareness creation separation of be posed due to odour problem programs for workers on safe waste waste by The at the site. handling and hazards protection workers in landfill -Skin disease may be a problem measures, provision of protective cloths during operation among workers exposed to the and devices like gloves, goggles, exposed to waste with bare hand and body. protective cloths, provision of adequate contamination and water and soaps for bathing, and to water born adequate bathrooms to enable them day communicable to day bathing after work, their periodical diseases related to health check-ups, vaccinations etc. The the waste workers should have free health services and medical checkups. Landfills cause a Hazardous wastes pose harm as localized loss of a result of their: amenity due to -flammability -The waste type received should be checked before acceptance at the landfill. Hazardous waste should be treated City administration City administration 50,000 Use the existing fire fighting track 55