FINAL SCOPING REPORT

Transcription

1 FINAL SCOPING REPORT The proposed Pearly Beach Waste Water Treatment Facility Prepared for: Arcus GIBB (Pty) Ltd. 14 Kloof Street Cape Town 8001 Submitted to: Department of Environmental Affairs Fedsure Building 315 Pretorius Street Pretoria Prepared by: Strategic Environmental Focus (Pty) Ltd P.O. Box 1330, Durbanville, 7551 Tel. No.: Fax. No.: Website: JANUARY 2013 DEA REF NO: 12/9/11/L982/9 SEF Project Code:

2 PURPOSE OF DOCUMENT (FOR FINAL SCOPING REPORT) A period of 21 calendar days (28 January February 2013) will be provided for the review and commenting phase of the Final Scoping Report. All Interested and Affected Parties (I&APs) as well as State Departments will be notified of this review period. The Final Scoping Report contains the following information: A description of the project, including project motivation; Discussion of applicable alternatives; A description of the environment affected by the project; The public participation process (including comments captured from I&APs in an Issues and Response Report during the Draft Scoping Phase) ; and The plan of study for the Environmental Impact Reporting (EIR) phase. The Final Scoping Report can be viewed at the following venue: Name of public venue Name of Contact Person Contact Number(s) Gansbaai Library Municipal Centre in Main road S.Swart Tel: Fax: Tel: Fax: sswart@overstrand.gov.za Viewing Times Mon - Fridays (09h00 to 17h00) Should you wish to participate in the S&EIR process by contributing issues of concerns/comments, please register as an I&AP by completing the enclosed Registration and Comment Sheet or you can visit SEF s website at To register as an I&AP or comment on the project, click on Stakeholder Engagement. Click on the register button and complete the compulsory fields to register as an I&AP. On completion of these fields, you will receive an titled Stakeholder Engagement New Registration. Click on client login and use the ed details to login in and view the Final Scoping Report for the proposed Pearly Beach Waste Water Treatment Facility (WWTF) and associated appendices. Should you have any problems in obtaining the information from the Internet, please feel free to contact SEF for assistance. Following the commenting period, the Final Scoping Report will be submitted to the Department of Environmental Affairs (DEA) for consideration. After the acceptance of the Scoping Report, the EIR phase will be initiated. The flow diagram below highlights the phases in the project where I&APs have the opportunity to participate within the process. Draft Scoping Report and Plan of Study for the EIR Phase sent for public (I&APs) review (40 days) Final Scoping Report submitted to Competent Authority for acceptance (I&APs notified and given opportunity to comment) Draft EIR and EMP sent for public review (40 days) Notify I&APs and inform them of appeal process Environmental Authorisation issued by Competent Authority Final EIR and EMP submitted to Competent Authority for decision - making (I&APs notified and given opportunity to comment) PEARLY BEACH WASTE WATER TREATMENT FACILITY DEA REF NO: 12/9/11/L982/9 Page ii

3 PROJECT SUMMARY Project Name The proposed Pearly Beach Waste Water Treatment Facility Preferred Site Erf 2046 (Title Deed No.: T60041/2002); Erf 1896 (Title Deed No.: T11497/1996); Portion 4 of the Farm 321 (Title Deed No.: T18303/2001). Surveyor-General 21 Digit Code C C C C Preferred Technology Oxidation Pond Treatment System Annual expected throughput Capacity Approximately m 3 waste water treated / annum (at a rate of 250m 3 of waste water treated per day) Development Footprint Approximately m 2 (2.88ha) for the oxidation ponds. Approximately 3 000m 2 (0.3ha) for the activated sludge plant. Approximately 500m 2 (0.05ha) for the prefabricated sewage treatment plant. Development / Structure Height Refer to Engineering drawing for the different treatment technologies (attached as Appendix 6) Development / Structure Orientation A site has been selected approximately 350m north-east of the Eluxolweni Housing Project (residential development). Lay Down Area Dimensions To be addressed within the Environmental Impact Report (EIR). Site Photographs Refer to Appendix 3 (Background information) Confirmation of Supply: Water (During Construction & Operational Phases) Construction Phase = To be confirmed in the EIR Operational Phase = To be confirmed in the EIR Supplier: Overstrand Local Municipality Sewage (During Construction & Operational Phases) Construction Phase = To be confirmed in the EIR Operational Phase = It is expected that the ablution facilities for staff at the plant will feed into the main supply (influent) to be treated by the plant. Supplier: Overstrand Local Municipality PEARLY BEACH WASTE WATER TREATMENT FACILITY DEA REF NO: 12/9/11/L982/9 Page iii

4 Electricity (During Construction & Operational Phases) Supplier: Overstrand Municipality Solid Waste (During Construction & Operational Phases) Construction Phase = To be confirmed in the EIR Operational Phase = To be confirmed in the EIR Receiver: Gansbaai Landfill site PEARLY BEACH WASTE WATER TREATMENT FACILITY DEA REF NO: 12/9/11/L982/9 Page iv

5 ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT PRACTITIONER Strategic Environmental Focus (Pty) Ltd (SEF) is a privately owned company and was formed in 1997 with the objective of providing expert solutions to pressing environmental issues. SEF is one of Africa s largest multi-disciplinary consultancies, offering sustainable environmental solutions to private and public sector clients. With our integrated services approach in the management of natural, built and social environments; and with over a decade of experience, we bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to each project. SEF s Vision SEF is a national sustainability consultancy that provides integrated social, biophysical & economic solutions by forging strategic stakeholder relationships, underpinned by SEF s core values. SEF s Mission SEF offers holistic sustainable solutions in response to global change. SEF has assembled a team of professionals, consisting of a core of environmental experts with extensive experience in dealing with Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs), Public Participation Processes, Architectural and Landscape Architecture, Mining and Environmental Management. SEF also has a team of specialist practitioners such as specialists in Heritage Impact Assessments (HIA), Wetland Delineation and Functional Assessments; Wetland/ Riparian Rehabilitation, Aquatic Assessments; Ecological (Fauna, Avifauna and Flora) Assessment, Visual Impact Assessments (VIAs), Soils and Agricultural Potential Assessments, Socio-Economic Assessments, etc. SEF is a Qualifying Small Enterprise and a Level 3 contributor in terms of the Broad Based Black Economic Empowerment Act, 2003 (Act No. 53 of 2003) and has a procurement recognition level of 110%. SEF commits itself to comply with the requirements and the implementation of a Quality Management System. The Quality Management System will be reviewed and implemented to continually improve efficiency and effectiveness of the organisation. SEF uses a green approach to anything we embark on. We believe in using technology to our and the environment s best advantage. We encourage the use of green alternatives such as telephone and video conferencing instead of travelling for workshops and meetings and CDs instead of printed material, where possible. The following project team members are involved in this S&EIR application process. Table 1: Project Team Members Name Organization Project Role Ms Natalie Ritsch SEF Project Manager Mr Ryan Jonas SEF Environmental Manager PEARLY BEACH WASTE WATER TREATMENT FACILITY DEA REF NO: 12/9/11/L982/9 Page v

6 Natalie Ritsch Natalie has been an EAP for 7 years, and has been involved in the environmental science field for almost 12 years. She started her career as an Environmental Officer, and later Principal Environmental Officer, for the Department of Environmental Affairs and Development Planning (DEA&DP); a position she held for almost 4 years. During this time she was responsible for reviewing EIAs, commenting on land use applications, drafting environmental decisions for signature by the decision making authority, as well as, assisting with the handling of appeals. Natalie is currently a Project Manager for SEF and as such provides technical supervision of projects, project leadership on large-scale environmental assessments and quality assurance on EIA s, Basic Assessments (BAs) and strategic projects. Ryan Jonas Ryan has obtained a B.Sc (Natural Sciences) and Master s degree in Environmental Science from a local university and acquired 6 years full time working experience in the environmental science and management field with regard to projects within the major infrastructure development field and mining sector. Ryan has obtained a good working knowledge of environmental legislation in terms of the NEMA, 1998; MPRDA, 2002; NEM:WA, 2008 and NEWA, 1998 and is currently an Environmental Manager and Environmental Control Officer at SEF. Table 2: Contact Details of Environmental Assessment Practitioner Name Contact Details Ms Natalie Ritsch Strategic Environmental Focus (Pty) Ltd P.O. Box 1330, Durbanville, 7551 Tel. No.: Fax. No.: PEARLY BEACH WASTE WATER TREATMENT FACILITY DEA REF NO: 12/9/11/L982/9 Page vi

7 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 1 INTRODUCTION Strategic Environmental Focus (Pty) Ltd (SEF) has been appointed by Arcus GIBB (on behalf of the Overstrand Local Municipality) to undertake a waste management licence and environmental application process for the proposed Pearly Beach Waste Water Treatment Facility project. A Scoping and Environmental Impact Reporting (S&EIR) process will be conducted for this project based on the waste management activities listed within Category B of Government Notice (GN) No 718 in terms of the National Environmental Management: Waste Act, 2008 (Act No. 59 of 2008) (NEM:WA). The purpose of the Scoping phase is to describe the proposed activity and those reasonable alternatives that have been identified as well as the receiving environment that may be affected by the proposed project. The reports generated also describe the required public participation process followed during the Scoping phase as well as how it will be carried out during the EIR phase. All Interested and Affected Parties (I&APs) were provided with an opportunity to comment on the Draft Scoping Report (during a 60 day period which commenced on the 23 rd of August 2012 and ended on the 23 rd of October 2012) as well as on this Final Scoping Report to assess whether or not their comments / concerns raised have been included and adequately addressed. The DEA will, based on the Final Scoping Report, issue a decision on whether or not the application may proceed to the Environmental Impact Reporting (EIR) phase. 2 BRIEF PROJECT DESCRIPTION A Waste Water Treatment Facility (WWTF) is proposed to treat wastewater generated daily (250m 3 /day / 276kg COD/day) by the Eluxolweni Housing Project (a residential area located north of Pearly Beach). All raw sewage generated by this residential area will be pumped to the WWTF and the treated effluent discharged for irrigation. Rags. plastic bags and solid objects will be removed at the inlet of the WWTF, and the final effluent disinfected prior to discharge. The treatment process will ensure that the quality of the effluent will meet with the requirements in terms of the General Authorization as set out by the Department of Water Affairs (DWA). The final treated effluent will be utilised for irrigation of the sports fields within the residential development, with the surplus effluent released into a low lying, sandy area below the residential area. The surplus effluent will percolate into the ground and drain into the sea. Three (3) technology alternatives have been identified for the proposed WWTF, namely: Oxidation ponds treatment system; (Municipal standard) activated sludge sewage treatment works; and A prefabricated sewage treatment works. If the oxidation treatment pond system is selected for construction, waste sludge from this system will be transported to the Gansbaai sewage treatment facilities. If the activated sludge sewage treatment process is selected, the stable waste sludge will be placed on sludge drying beds, the dried sludge stockpiled, and reused in the manner prescribed by the DWA and the Health Department. If the prefabricated sewage treatment process is selected, the stable waste sludge will be placed on sludge PEARLY BEACH WASTE WATER TREATMENT FACILITY DEA REF NO: 12/9/11/L982/9 Page vii

8 drying beds, the dried sludge stockpiled, and reused in the manner prescribed by the DWA and the Health Department. The WWTF will discharge the effluent to meet the quality standards and requirements of the Department of Water Affairs for the release of treated effluent back into the environment. The proposed Pearly Beach WWTF will be located approximately 350m north-east of the Eluxolweni Housing Project on the following properties within the Overstrand Local Municipal area (in the Western Cape): Erf 2046 (Title Deed No.: T60041/2002); Erf 1896 (Title Deed No.: T11497/1996); Portion 4 of the Farm 321 (Title Deed No.: T18303/2001). The proposed Pearly Beach WWTF footprint area is approximately 2.8 ha for the oxidation pond system, 0.3 ha for the activated sludge system and 0.05 ha for the prefabricated sewage treatment works. The throughput capacity of this plant is m 3 of waste water treated annually (with 250 m 3 of waste water treated on a daily basis). Supporting infrastructure associated with the WWTF will include a proposed pump station, a sewer main pipeline originating from the Eluxolweni residential area which will feed into the pump station, and another sewer main pipeline constructed from this pump station to the WWTF (for treatment of the waste water). 3 KEY IMPACTS The following key impacts were identified and will be carried forward into the EIR phase for further investigation and assessment: Biophysical Impacts: Potential impacts of increased surface water run-off (i.e. due to increased soil erosion as a result of construction activity) associated with the establishment of hard internal surfaces for the establishment of the WWTF and vegetation clearing (mainly during the construction phase); Potential impacts on ground water quality due to hydrocarbon spillages from vehicles and containers (i.e. containing diesel, oil, petrol, lubricants) during the construction phase of the WWTF and potential impacts on the ground water quality during the operation of the WWTF (due to potential shallow water tables occurring in the vicinity). Potential impacts on soils due to hydrocarbon spillages from vehicles and containers (i.e. containing diesel, petrol, oil, lubricants) during the construction phase of the WWTF; Potential impact on flora (i.e. endemic. fynbos); within the proposed area, stemming from construction activities such as vegetation clearing and topsoil stripping within the site and the placement of the sewer main pipeline ; and Potential faunal displacement mainly during the construction phase of the project. PEARLY BEACH WASTE WATER TREATMENT FACILITY DEA REF NO: 12/9/11/L982/9 Page viii

9 Socio-Economic Impacts: Increased dust and noise generation during the construction phase; Change in the visual character of the area; Potential impacts on unidentified heritage resources; Job creation during the construction and operational phases of the proposed project. Cumulative Impacts: Increased loss of endemic floral habitats (i.e. fynbos); Increased visual impacts associated with the expansion of the Eluxolweni Housing Project within the Pearly Beach area. 4 PROJECT ALTERNATIVES To give effect to the principles of NEMA and Integrated Environmental Management (IEM), an EIA should assess a number of reasonable and feasible alternatives that may achieve the same end result as that of the preferred project alternative. The following alternatives have been identified as part of this Scoping exercise: Alternative 1: Site/ Location Alternatives: Only one site / location has been selected for the proposed WWTP based on the already disturbed nature of the site and close proximity (350 m) to the Eluxolweni Housing Development (from which the waste water will be generated and therefore have to be treated). No further site/ location alternatives will be investigated. Alternative 2: Layout/ Design Alternatives: Two (2) alternatives are proposed in terms of the alignment route of the sewer main pipeline originating from the pump station towards the WWTF, namely: Alignment along an already existing servitude (which will follow an already ecologically disturbed route) (Refer to Sewer Rising Main Route 1 in Locality Map attached in Appendix 1) A more direct alignment route (Refer to Sewer Rising Main Route 2 in Locality Map attached in Appendix 1) which is expected to traverse through a section of relatively undisturbed vegetation. Alternative layout/ design plans may further evolve from the findings of specialist studies undertaken to inform the EIR phase. Alternative 3: Technology Alternatives: Technology alternatives will be considered and investigated during the EIR phase of the project. Three (3) options proposed are the following: Oxidation pond treatment system; (Municipal standard) activated sludge sewage treatment works; and Prefabricated sewage treatment works. Of the technologies considered, the oxidation pond treatment system is considered the preferred option. This is also based on the recommendation from the National Department of Water and Sanitation (DWA). The technologies considered will have implications varying from cost to effectiveness. PEARLY BEACH WASTE WATER TREATMENT FACILITY DEA REF NO: 12/9/11/L982/9 Page ix

10 Alternative 4: No Development Alternative: This option assumes that a conservative approach would ensure that the environment is not impacted upon any more than is currently the case. It is important to state that this assessment is informed by the current condition of the area. Should the DEA decline the application, the No-Go option will be followed and the status quo of the site will remain. 5 CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS The EIR phase may only commence once the Competent Authority accepts the Final Scoping Report and instructs the Environmental Assessment Practitioner (EAP) to continue with the tasks contemplated in the Plan of Study for the EIR phase of the environmental application process. The EAP will propose that, on the basis of the information contained in the Final Scoping Report, that the DEA accept the Scoping Report and Plan of Study for the EIR phase. The more pertinent issues can then be thoroughly investigated and assessed, in terms of their significance. The ability to mitigate any of the impacts identified in this Scoping Report will also be investigated and detailed within a working/ dynamic Environmental Management Programme (EMP) for consideration by I&APs and ultimately by the DEA. PEARLY BEACH WASTE WATER TREATMENT FACILITY DEA REF NO: 12/9/11/L982/9 Page x

11 TABLE OF CONTENTS ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT PRACTITIONER... V EXECUTIVE SUMMARY... VII 1 INTRODUCTION... VII 2 BRIEF PROJECT DESCRIPTION... VII 3 KEY IMPACTS... VIII 4 PROJECT ALTERNATIVES... IX 5 CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS... X TABLE OF CONTENTS... XI LIST OF FIGURES... XIII LIST OF TABLES... XIII LIST OF ABBREVIATIONS AND ACRONYMS... XIV GLOSSARY OF TERMS... XVI SECTION A: INTRODUCTION... 1 A-1 DESCRIPTION OF PROPOSED ACTIVITY... 1 A-1.1 Locality... 1 A-1.2 Surrounding Land Use... 1 A-1.3 Details of the Project... 1 A-2 LEGAL REQUIREMENTS APPLICABLE TO THIS APPLICATION... 4 A-2.1 NEM:WA, A-2.2 National Water Act, 1998 (Act No. 36 of 1998)... 4 A-2.3 Other Legal Requirements... 5 A Acts... 5 A Provincial Policies and/or Guidelines... 6 A-3 DETAILS OF THE APPLICANT... 7 A-4 NEED AND DESIRABILITY OF THE PROJECT... 7 SECTION B: THE RECEIVING ENVIRONMENT... 8 B-1 BIOPHYSICAL ENVIRONMENT... 8 B-1.1 Soils and Geology... 8 B-1.2 Topography and Hydrology... 8 B-1.3 Climate... 8 B-1.4 Flora and Fauna... 8 B-2 SOCIAL ENVIRONMENT... 9 B-2.1 Visual... 9 B-2.2 Heritage... 9 B-2.3 Noise... 9 B-2.4 Air... 9 SECTION C: ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT (EIA) PROCESS C-1 APPROACH TO THE EIA C-2 GUIDING PRINCIPLES FOR AN EIA C-3 S&EIR TECHNICAL PROCESS PEARLY BEACH WASTE WATER TREATMENT FACILITY DEA REF NO: 12/9/11/L982/9 Page xi

12 C-3.1 Pre-application Consultation with the DEA C-3.2 Application for a Waste Management Licence C-3.3 Information Gathering C-3.4 Specialist Studies C-4 PUBLIC PARTICIPATION PROCESS C-4.1 Identification of Interested and Affected Parties C-4.2 Public Announcement of the Pearly Beach WWTF Project C-4.3 Draft Scoping Report C-4.4 Final Scoping Report C-4.5 Public participation during the Environmental Impact Assessment Phase SECTION D: IDENTIFICATION OF IMPACTS D-1 IDENTIFICATION OF IMPORTANT ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS D-1.1 Biophysical Impacts D-1.2 Socio-Economic Impacts D-2 IDENTIFICATION OF CUMULATIVE IMPACTS SECTION E: ALTERNATIVES E-1 IDENTIFICATION OF ALTERNATIVES SECTION F: PLAN OF STUDY FOR EIR PHASE F-1 SCOPE AND PURPOSE OF THE EIR PHASE F-2 METHODOLOGY OF THE EIR PHASE F-2.1 Specialist Investigations F-2.2 Approach to Assessment of Impacts F Impact Identification and Assessment F Assessment Procedure: Proposed Impact Assessment Methodology F Integration of Specialist s Input F Mitigation Measures F-2.3 Approach to the Assessment of Cumulative Impacts F Steps in Assessing Cumulative Impacts F Determining the Extent of Cumulative Impacts F Describing the Affected Environment F Assessment of Cumulative Impacts F-3 PUBLIC PARTICIPATION PROCESS DURING THE EIR PHASE F-3.1 Stakeholder Engagement F-3.2 Public Review of the Draft Environmental Impact Report F-3.3 Public Review of the Final Environmental Impact Report SECTION G: CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS SECTION H: REFERENCES SECTION I: APPENDICES PEARLY BEACH WASTE WATER TREATMENT FACILITY DEA REF NO: 12/9/11/L982/9 Page xii

13 LIST OF FIGURES Figure 1: The eight guiding principles for the EIA process Figure 2: Flow diagram of the Scoping and EIR process Figure 3: The identification of Cumulative Impacts Figure 4: Description of bio-physical assessment parameters with its respective weighting LIST OF TABLES Table 1: Project Team Members... v Table 2: Contact Details of Environmental Assessment Practitioner... vi Table 3: Surrounding Land Use Table... 1 Table 4: Example of an Impact Table PEARLY BEACH WASTE WATER TREATMENT FACILITY DEA REF NO: 12/9/11/L982/9 Page xiii

14 LIST OF ABBREVIATIONS AND ACRONYMS DEA DEAT DoE DWA EAP EIA EIR EMPr GN ha I&APs IEM IRP ME Department of Environmental Affairs (previously DEAT) Department of Environmental Affairs and Tourism Department of Energy Department of Water Affairs Environmental Assessment Practitioner Environmental Impact Assessment Environmental Impact Reporting Environmental Management Programme Government Notice Hectares Interested and Affected Parties Integrated Environmental Management Integrated Resource Plan Mitigation Efficiency NEMA National Environmental Management Act, 1998 (Act No. 107 of 1998) NERSA National Energy Regulator of South Africa NHRA National Heritage Resources Act (Act No. 25 of 1999) NWA National Water Act, 1998 (Act No. 36 of 1998) WWTF SAHRA SEF SFM S&EIR Waste Water Treatment Facility South African Heritage Resources Agency Strategic Environmental Focus (Pty) Ltd Significance Following Mitigation Scoping and Environmental Impact Reporting PEARLY BEACH WASTE WATER TREATMENT FACILITY DEA REF NO: 12/9/11/L982/9 Page xiv

15 SDF WOM WM Spatial Development Framework Without Mitigation Measures With Mitigation Measures PEARLY BEACH WASTE WATER TREATMENT FACILITY DEA REF NO: 12/9/11/L982/9 Page xv

16 GLOSSARY OF TERMS Applicant Any person who applies for an authorisation to undertake an activity or to cause such activity to be undertaken as contemplated in sections 24(5), 24M and 44 of the National Environmental Management Act, (Act No. 107 of 1998). Ecology The study of the interrelationships between organisms and their environments. Environment Environmental Impact Assessment Environmental Management Programme Interested and Affected Party Key Stakeholder The surroundings within which humans exist and that are made up of (i) the land, water and atmosphere of the earth; (ii) micro-organisms, plant and animal life; (iii) any part or combination of (i) and (ii) and the interrelationships among and between them; and (iv) the physical, chemical, aesthetic and cultural properties and conditions of the foregoing that influence human health and wellbeing. Systematic process of identifying, assessing and reporting environmental impacts associated with an activity and includes basic assessment and S&EIR. A working document on environmental and socio-economic mitigation measures, which must be implemented by several responsible parties during all the phases of the proposed project. Any person or groups of persons who may express interest in a project or be affected by the project, positively or negatively. Any person who acts as a spokesperson for his/her constituency and/or community/organization, has specialized knowledge about the project and/or area, is directly or indirectly affected by the project or who considers himself/herself a key stakeholder. Stakeholder Any person or group of persons whose live(s) may be affected by a project. Study Area Refers to the entire study area encompassing all the alternatives as indicated on the study area or locality map. Succession The natural restoration process of vegetation after disturbance. State Department Any department or administration in the national or provincial sphere of government exercising functions that involve the management of the environment. PEARLY BEACH WASTE WATER TREATMENT FACILITY DEA REF NO: 12/9/11/L982/9 Page xvi

17 SECTION A: INTRODUCTION Strategic Environmental Focus (Pty) Ltd (SEF) has been appointed by Arcus GIBB (on behalf of Overstrand Municipality) to apply for a waste management licence and undertaken an associated environmental application process for the proposed Pearly Beach WWTF situated on Erf 2046, Erf 1896 and Portion 4 of the Farm 321. A-1 DESCRIPTION OF PROPOSED ACTIVITY A-1.1 Locality The proposed Pearly Beach WWTF will be situated approximately 350m north-west of the Eluxolweni Housing Project (refer to the locality map attached as Appendix 1). The site co-ordinates of the quadrant area for the proposed location of the WWTF are the following: Number of corner Latitude Longitude 1 (Top left) ' 00.7" 19 29' 27.8 " 2 (Bottom left) ' 05.6" " 3 (Top right) ' 00.3" 19 29' 35.2 " 4 (Bottom right) ' 05.2" 19 29' 34. 4" A-1.2 Surrounding Land Use To further place the site in context, the land uses within all four major compass directions are described in the table below. Table 3: Surrounding Land Use Table Direction Land Use Distance (m) North Vacant / Unspecified Land Adjacent to the site East Vacant / Unspecified Land Adjacent to the site South Residential Area (Eluxolweni Housing Project) located south-west of the proposed WWTF Residential Area (Pearly Beach) located south of the proposed WWTF Approximately 350m Approximately 800m West Vacant / Unspecified Land Adjacent to the site A-1.3 Details of the Project Waterborne sanitation is proposed to serve 211 new residential erven of the Eluxolweni Housing Project and 100 existing erven in Eluxolweni served by conservancy tanks. Provision is also to be made for the flow from approximately 108 erven within Eluxolweni in the future. It is intended that once the WWTF is constructed, the effluent (after proper treatment) will be used for irrigation of the sports fields situated in the Eluxolweni Housing Project. Considering that most of the treated waste water is to be re-used for irrigation, it is proposed a quantity of water is stored as it is produced, and then used during the daily irrigation cycle. The treated effluent (in accordance to DWA standards) that cannot be irrigated PEARLY BEACH WASTE WATER TREATMENT FACILITY DEA REF NO: 12/9/11/L982/9 Page 1

18 will be discharged into the low-lying existing wet area to the east of the Eluxolweni Housing Project and ultimately seep away to the sea, approximately 750m away. While the additional 211 erven and 100 existing erven within Eluxolweni, and 108 erven within Eluxolweni for the future are to be served with this waste water treatment facility, the existing 100 houses will continue to utilise existing conservancy tanks until the construction of the waterborne system is completed. Thus eliminating the need to collect effluent from these conservancy tanks, and rather making use of the new pump station which forms part of the WWTF. The conveyance of effluent from the additional 211 erven is proposed via gravity sewers, with all the effluent collected at the new pump station. The effluent is to be conveyed via the sewer main pipeline rising to the WWTF. As there is little increase in the cost, the pump station will be designed to cater for the additional 211erven, the discharge from the existing 100 conservancy tanks, as well provision for approximately 108 erven in the future. The pump station will be designed with 100% mechanical standby capacity, and equipped with standby emergency power in case of failure of the main electrical supply. It is envisaged that the Overstrand Local Municipality will make use of a mobile generator which can be brought to the pump station during an emergency. The sewage is to be conveyed to the WWTF and the treated effluent generated by the WWTF to gravitate back to the Eluxolweni Housing Project where it can be utilised to irrigate the sports fields. Technology alternatives for the treatment of the waste water generated by the Eluxolweni housing project will be investigated in greater detail during the EIR phase of the project. The 3 (three) treatment options are discussed below: Oxidation pond treatment system: Oxidation ponds are suitable for treating sewage from small communities such as Eluxolweni Housing Project. The topography in the area of the ponds must be reasonably flat, and there must be adequate space. For this works a site approximately 180m x 160m (2.88ha) is required. Although the quality of effluent is very consistent, it does not meet with the requirements of the General Standard, and requires controlled irrigation, and disposal of the effluent which is surplus to irrigation needs. Prior to discharge of raw sewage into the pond system, rags and grit (approximately 0.6m3/month) must be removed in an inlet works comprising of a hand raked screen followed by two parallel grit channels which are used alternately, allowing for the settled grit to be removed. The oxidation pond process is energy efficient as there is little reliance on mechanical equipment, and is greatly enhanced with the addition of relatively small recirculation pumps which use little power. The most cost effective process design for a pond system makes use of anaerobic pre-treatment in deep ponds, followed by large ponds, some 1.5m deep to facilitate aeration by wind blowing across the surface, as well as a large surface area to capture the energy in sunlight, which promotes the growth of beneficial algae in the initial ponds, and disinfection in the latter ponds. The process benefits with the use of several ponds in series, while it is expedient to install two parallel anaerobic ponds so that accumulated solids (on average 150m3/ year) must be removed. Only a small amount of waste sludge accumulates, as the lengthy anaerobic digestion period results in a very significant portion of the cell mass being converted to gas which released to the atmosphere. The algae which form part of the treatment process in the oxidation ponds, leave little residual mass, so little that it is almost impossible to measure that which is carried out in the final effluent. A final pond is provided after chlorination PEARLY BEACH WASTE WATER TREATMENT FACILITY DEA REF NO: 12/9/11/L982/9 Page 2

19 to act as an irrigation water storage dam, which balances the variations in the inflow, and the periodic use of water for irrigation. The final effluent will be conveyed via the return irrigation pipeline to the sports fields, and onwards so that the effluent that cannot be irrigated can be discharged into the low lying, existing wet area to the east of Eluxolweni Housing Project. It is into this same area where storm water drains to, then soaks into the ground, and seeps away via the natural wetland that is expected to form, to the sea some 750m away. Municipal standard activated sludge sewage treatment works The activated sludge process makes use of a naturally occurring biological mass (activated sludge) which has the capacity to remove several pollutants (measured as COD chemical oxygen demand, ammonia, nitrates phosphates and others such as fats, oils and greases.) The process relies on a series of reactors where the oxygen level is carefully controlled to ensure different aspects of the process take place. The sludge mass is retained in the system by allowing it to settle from the outflow from the activated sludge reactor. This sludge is returned to the inlet of the activated sludge biological reactor. The sludge mass grows, and periodically is removed for further treatment, and drying (sludge drying beds for this purpose are proposed) so that it can be beneficially used as a soil conditioner, or for composting. The dried sludge will consist of approximately 25% solids (75% moisture) and expected at 2.5 tons/month (10m 3 /month). The design for the Eluxolweni Housing Project includes the chlorination of the effluent to provide for zero faecal coliforms prior to the irrigation of the final effluent. The final effluent generally is better quality than that obtained from oxidation ponds, but has the mechanical aspects which require regular attention. The final effluent will be conveyed via the return irrigation pipeline to the sports fields, and onwards as described above. Prefabricated sewage treatment works A variation of the more formal format of the activated sludge plant referred to above makes use of plastic tanks, buried just below ground level. An example of this system serves the community in the caravan park in Pearly Beach. An inlet works must be included, identical to that used with the other options considered for treating this flow. It is critical that the equipment provided also has standby capacity installed which automatically come into operation should there be a fault. While the use of prefabricated units results in lower costs, it must be noted that in the unlikely event of maintenance work within the units, this will be virtually impossible. The design for the Eluxolweni Housing Project includes chlorination of the effluent to provide for zero faecal coliforms prior to the irrigation of the final effluent. The final effluent will be conveyed via the return irrigation pipeline to the sports fields, and onwards as described above. Preferred Technology Option: At this preliminary stage, and based on the recommendation from the Department of Water and Sanitation (DWA) the Oxidation Pond treatment system is considered as the preferred technology alternative for the following reason: The comparison of the two forms of activated sludge treatment (with adjustments to the scope of treatment works to be similar) results in similar costs, which makes this cost of the oxidation pond system attractive. Site Selection: In terms of site selection for the proposed WWTF, only one site has been chosen and no other site alternatives are therefore considered. The reason for this site selection is due to the following: PEARLY BEACH WASTE WATER TREATMENT FACILITY DEA REF NO: 12/9/11/L982/9 Page 3

20 The already disturbed nature of the site (in comparison to the relatively undisturbed natural surrounding area) selected for the construction of the WWTF, The close proximity of this site to the Eluxolweni Housing Project. A-2 LEGAL REQUIREMENTS APPLICABLE TO THIS APPLICATION SEF registered the proposed Pearly Beach WWTF project with the DEA and the project has been assigned the reference number: 12/9/11/L982/9. The legislation, guidelines and policies applicable to this project are as follows: A-2.1 NEM:WA, 2008 In terms of Category B of Government Notice (GN) No 718 of the National Environmental Waste Management Act, 2008 (Act 59 of 2008), the following waste management activities are deemed by the EAP to be applicable to the proposed Pearly Beach WWTF based on the information provided by the Project proponent and their Consulting Engineers. GN No & Activity Number Activity Description Category B of GN No The treatment of effluent, wastewater or sewage with an annual throughput capacity of cubic metres or more. 11 The construction of facilities for activities listed in Category B of this Schedule (not in isolation to associated activity). It must be noted that waste management activities listed in Category B of GN 718 require a S&EIR process and as such this application shall undergo a S&EIR process. The aforementioned listed activities are deemed to include activities that could potentially have a detrimental impact on the social and biophysical state of an area and as such, are required to undergo an environmental impact assessment process. A-2.2 National Water Act, 1998 (Act No. 36 of 1998) The National Water Act, 1998 (Act No. 36 of 1998) (NWA) aims to provide management of the national water resources to achieve sustainable use of water for the benefit of all water users. This requires that the quality of water resources is protected as well as integrated management of water resources with the delegation of powers to institutions at the regional or catchment level. The purpose of the Act is to ensure that the nation s water resources are protected, used, developed, conserved, managed and controlled in responsible ways. Of specific importance to this application is Section 19 of the NWA, which states that an owner of land, a person in control of land or a person who occupies or uses the land which thereby causes, has caused or is likely to cause pollution of a water resource must take all reasonable measures to prevent any such pollution from occurring, continuing or recurring and must therefore comply with any prescribed waste standard or management practices. PEARLY BEACH WASTE WATER TREATMENT FACILITY DEA REF NO: 12/9/11/L982/9 Page 4

21 The Department of Water Affairs (DWA) has prescribed certain water quality limits in terms of effluent released by a WWTF into a receiving environment. The quality of the treated effluent must comply with the requirements of the Department of Water Affairs, and be suitable for both irrigation and also discharge back into the environment. With this in mind, the quality of the effluent is expected to meet with the General Standard as set out be the Department of Water Affairs which is adequate for the effluent to be discharged back into environment, namely the irrigation of sports fields. The irrigation of this effluent is permitted in terms of Section 39 of the Water Act The General Authorisations specifically address the irrigation of waste water in Clause 2.7 which specifies the following conditions: Irrigation of up to 500cm 3 of domestic or biodegradable industrial wastewater on any given day is permitted provided that the following conditions are adhered to: The electric conductivity does not exceed 200 ms/m; Ph is between 6 and 9; Chemical Oxygen Demand does not exceed 400 mg/l after the removal of algae; Faecal coliforms do not exceed per 100ml; and The Sodium Adsorption Rate does not exceed 5 for biodegradable waste water. If the irrigation of waste water Does not impact on a water resource or any other person s water use, property or land; Is not detrimental to the health and safety of the public in the vicinity of the activity, Location of irrigation of wastewater Waste water irrigation in terms of the General Authorisation is only permitted if the irrigation takes place Above the 100 year flood line, or alternatively more than 100 metres from the edge of a water resource or a borehole (which is utilised for drinking water or stock watering); and On a land that is not, or does not overlie a major aquifer. The project proponent for the proposed Pearly Beach WWTF must ensure that these prescribed water quality standards are maintained before effluent is released into the environment and utilised for irrigation purposes (i.e. irrigation on sport fields). A-2.3 Other Legal Requirements A Acts Constitution of the Republic of South Africa The Constitution of the Republic of South Africa has major implications for environmental management. The main effects are the protection of environmental and property rights, the change brought about by the sections dealing with administrative law, such as access to information, just administrative action and broadening of the locus standi of litigants. These aspects provide general and overarching support and are of major assistance in the effective implementation of the environmental management principles and structures of the NEMA. Section 24 in the Bill of Rights of the Constitution specifically states that: Everyone has the right - To an environment that is not harmful to their health or well-being; and To have the environment protected, for the benefit of present and future generations, through reasonable legislative and other measures that - o Prevent pollution and ecological degradation; PEARLY BEACH WASTE WATER TREATMENT FACILITY DEA REF NO: 12/9/11/L982/9 Page 5

22 o o Promote conservation; and Secure ecologically sustainable development and use of natural resources while promoting justifiable economic and social development. National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act, 2004 (Act No. 10 of 2004) The purpose of the Biodiversity Act is to provide for the management and conservation of South Africa s biodiversity within the framework of the NEMA and the protection of species and ecosystems that warrant national protection. As part of its implementation strategy, the National Spatial Biodiversity Assessment was developed. This Act is applicable to this application for environmental authorisation, in the sense that it requires the project applicant to consider the protection and management of local biodiversity. National Heritage Resources Act, 1999 (Act No. 25 of 1999) This Act legislates the necessity for cultural and heritage impact assessment in areas earmarked for development, which exceed 0.5 hectares (ha) and where linear developments (including roads) exceed 300 metres in length. The Act makes provision for the potential destruction to existing sites, pending the archaeologist s recommendations through permitting procedures. Permits are administered by the South African Heritage Resources Agency (SAHRA). National Environmental Management: Protected Areas Act, 2003 (Act No. 57 of 2003) The purpose of this Act is to provide for the protection, conservation and management of ecologically viable areas representative of South Africa s biological diversity and its natural landscapes. Promotion of Access to Information Act, 2000 (Act No. 2 of 2000) The Act recognises that everyone has a Constitutional right of access to any information held by the state and by another person when that information is required to exercise or protect any rights. The purpose of the Act is to foster a culture of transparency and accountability in public and private bodies and to promote a society in which people have access to information that enables them to exercise and protect their rights A Provincial Policies and/or Guidelines Integrated Environmental Management (IEM) IEM is a philosophy for ensuring that environmental considerations are fully integrated into all stages of the development process. This philosophy aims to achieve a desirable balance between conservation and development (DEAT, 1992). The IEM guidelines intend encouraging a pro-active approach to sourcing, collating and presenting information in a manner that can be interpreted at all levels. The DEA Integrated Environmental Management Information Series guidelines are also considered during this S&EIR application process. National Spatial Biodiversity Assessment The National Spatial Biodiversity Assessment (NSBA) classifies areas as worthy of protection based on its biophysical characteristics, which are ranked according to priority levels. Protected species Provincial Ordinances Provincial ordinances were developed to protected particular plant species within specific provinces. The protection of these species is enforced through permitting requirements associated with provincial lists of protected species. Permits are administered by the Provincial Departments of Environmental Affairs. PEARLY BEACH WASTE WATER TREATMENT FACILITY DEA REF NO: 12/9/11/L982/9 Page 6

23 A-3 DETAILS OF THE APPLICANT The details of the project applicant are: Name of Applicant Postal Address Relevant Numbers Mr. Dennis Hendriks, Senior Manager of Engineering Services (Overstrand Local Municipality) PO Box 20, Hermanus, 7200 Tel no: Fax no: A-4 NEED AND DESIRABILITY OF THE PROJECT Overstrand Local Municipality plans to provide waterborne sanitation (through the construction of the Pearly Beach WWTF) to serve 211 new residential erven in the Eluxolweni Housing Project and an additional 108 erven for houses envisaged in the near future. While the additional 211 new erven and those planned for the future are to be served with a waterborne sewerage system (through the establishment of the Pearly Beach WWTF) an existing 100 houses will continue to be served by existing conservancy tanks. Provision will made to extend the proposed WWTF system to these erven and eliminate the need to collect effluent from conservancy tanks, and rather utilise the proposed pump station which will form part of the Pearly Beach WWTF. PEARLY BEACH WASTE WATER TREATMENT FACILITY DEA REF NO: 12/9/11/L982/9 Page 7

24 SECTION B: THE RECEIVING ENVIRONMENT In order to, with any level of confidence, assess the potential impacts of the proposed Pearly Beach WWTF. on the receiving environment, one needs to first assess the baseline conditions found over the study area. Using this Status Quo one can then, broadly speaking, determine the likely impacts that will emanate from a specific development typology on a well-defined receiving environment. B-1 BIOPHYSICAL ENVIRONMENT B-1.1 Soils and Geology The project site is underlain by the semi to unconsolidated aeolian sands with thin shale and calcrete lenses. These units are part of the Waenhuiskrans Formation of the Bredasdorp Group which comprises cemented calcareous marine and beach deposits and aeoleonites. This formation occurs on the coastal plain from Stanford to Cape Agulhas. Groundwater in the Bredasdorp formation tends to be alkaline with a moderate salinity ( ms/m) and borehole yield is between l/s. Groundwater in this formation tends to be shallow, between 2-10 m. B-1.2 Topography and Hydrology No surface water bodies are present in close proximity to the site on which the Pearly Beach WWTF is proposed to be located. A perched water table overlying the quartzites of the Table Mountain Group rocks within the low points of the dune troughs may develop after good rains. High water tables and flooding may occur in these topographic lows without undertaking the necessary mitigation into account. The Quartenary Catchment applicable to this development area is G40M (Quartenary Catchments of South Africa. Pretoria: DEAT.) B-1.3 Climate The Gansbaai area (the closest established town to the project area) normally receives about 407mm of rain per year, and most of this rainfall occurs during winter. This area receives the lowest rainfall (12mm) in January and the highest (59mm) in July. The average midday temperatures for Gansbaai range from 16.7 C in July to 25 C in January with the coldest tempera tures expected during July when the mercury drops to 7 C on average during the night. The Gansbaai area can be described as having a Mediterranean climate. B-1.4 Flora and Fauna The following National vegetation types together with the National Ecosystem Conservation Status (indicated in brackets below); occur in close proximity to the proposed WWTF site, namely: Agulhas Limestone Fynbos (Ecosystem Conservation Status = Vulnerable); Southern Coastal Forest (Vegetation Conservation Status = Least Threatened); and Overberg Dune Strandveld (Vegetation Conservation Status = Least Threatened). It was noted during the site visit that the project area does consist of relatively natural occurring endemic vegetation (i.e. fynbos) and therefore recommended that an ecological (to include fauna and flora) study be PEARLY BEACH WASTE WATER TREATMENT FACILITY DEA REF NO: 12/9/11/L982/9 Page 8

25 conducted during the EIR phase of the project and these specialist findings (in terms of the potential impact the WWTF and associated infrastructure may have on the immediate ecological environment) be incorporated into the Environmental Impact Report. B-2 SOCIAL ENVIRONMENT B-2.1 Visual Scenic value can be described as the reaction to aesthetics of the environment as perceived by an individual or a group and therefore it is a very subjective perception. In terms of surrounding natural landscape compatibility, the proposed Pearly Beach WWTF may be out of character and therefore recommended that mitigations measures to lessen the significance of such an impact be proposed during the EIR phase of the project. B-2.2 Heritage As per the National Heritage Resources Act, 1999 (Act No. 25 of 1999), a Notice of Intent to Develop (NID) be completed for any proposed development, if the size of the development and associated infrastructure exceeds 0.5 ha. Should any heritage artefacts be uncovered, the relevant heritage agency will have to be appropriately consulted. B-2.3 Noise Noise control must form part of the planning stage of any development. During the construction phase, noise may be generated as a result of construction related activities such as: the use of machinery and equipment, and the movement of construction vehicles etc. These potential noise impacts must be mitigated, where possible. This will be investigated during the EIR phase of the project and suitable mitigation measures will be recommended. B-2.4 Air Vehicles travelling on exposed surfaces, earthworks as well as wind are the main generators of dust. The nuisance and aesthetic impacts associated with the dust generated during the construction phase should be minimal, if mitigating measures are implemented. Dust generated off the earth s surface is generally regarded as a nuisance rather than a health or environmental hazard. On a large scale dust will impair atmospheric visibility; however, in the context of the proposed activity, the impact of dust production on air quality should be minimal taking into account that effective dust suppression techniques are available and will be recommended during the EIR phase. The nuisance aspect of dust during the construction phase of the project may be significant as the proposed development will be in close proximity to a populated area and effective mitigation and management measures are therefore required. Measures must be implemented (where possible) during the operational phase of the Pearly Beach WWTF to reduce the potential negative impact on surrounding air quality. The proposed site selected for the WWTF is however located approximately 350m north-east of the Eluxolweni Housing project, with prevailing winds generally blowing south-east in summer and north west in winter, minimising an adverse impact in terms of air quality. PEARLY BEACH WASTE WATER TREATMENT FACILITY DEA REF NO: 12/9/11/L982/9 Page 9

26 SECTION C: ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT (EIA) PROCESS C-1 APPROACH TO THE EIA An Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) is an effective environmental planning tool. It identifies the environmental impacts of a proposed project and assists in ensuring that a project will be environmentally acceptable and integrated into the surrounding environment in a sustainable way. The EIA for this project will comply with the requirements of the National Environmental Management Act, 1998 (Act 107 of 1998) [NEMA] and the NEMA EIA Regulations, 2010 of the DEA. The guiding principles of an EIA are listed below. C-2 GUIDING PRINCIPLES FOR AN EIA Definition of the term environment The term environment is used in the broadest sense in an environmental impact assessment. It covers the physical, biological, social, economic, cultural, historical, institutional and political environments. The EIA must take an open participatory approach throughout. This means that there should be no hidden agendas, no restrictions on the information collected during the process and an open-door policy by the proponent. Technical information must be communicated to stakeholders in a way that is understood by them and that enables them to meaningfully comment on the project. There should be ongoing consultation with Interested and Affected Parties (I&APs) representing all walks of life. Sufficient time for comment must be allowed. The opportunity for comment should be announced on an on-going basis. There should finally be opportunities for input by specialists and members of the public. Their contributions and issues should be considered when technical specialist studies are conducted and when decisions are made. The eight guiding principles that govern the entire process of EIA are as follows (see Figure 1below): Participation: An appropriate and timely access to the process for all interested parties. Transparency: All assessment decisions and their basis should be open and accessible. Certainty: The process and timing of the assessment should be agreed in advanced and followed by all participants. Accountability: The decision-makers are responsible to all parties for their action and decisions under the assessment process. Credibility: Assessment is undertaken with professionalism and objectivity. Cost-effectiveness: The assessment process and its outcomes will ensure environmental protection at the least cost to the society. Flexibility: The assessment process should be able to adapt to deal efficiently with any proposal and decision making situation. Practicality: The information and outputs provided by the assessment process are readily usable in decision making and planning. A S&EIR process is considered as a project management tool for collecting and analysing information on the environmental effects of a project. As such, it is used to: Identify potential environmental impacts; Examine the significance of environmental implications; Assess whether impacts can be mitigated; PEARLY BEACH WASTE WATER TREATMENT FACILITY DEA REF NO: 12/9/11/L982/9 Page 10

27 Recommend preventive and corrective mitigating measures; Inform decision makers and concerned parties about the environmental implications; and Advise whether development should go ahead. Figure 1: The eight guiding principles for the EIA process A S&EIR process typically has four phases, as illustrated in the Figure 2 below. The Public Participation process forms an integral part of all four phases and is discussed in greater detail in Section C 4 of this draft Scoping Report. PEARLY BEACH WASTE WATER TREATMENT FACILITY DEA REF NO: 12/9/11/L982/9 Page 11

28 C-3 S&EIR TECHNICAL PROCESS This section provides a summary of the technical process to be followed for this S&EIR process. Four phases of a Scoping and EIR process Environmental Impact Assessment Scoping Phase Identification of issues and determine what impact assessment should investigate, Plan of Study for Impact Assessment Impact Assessment Phase Specialist studies of potential impacts, positive and negative Environmental Impact Report (EIR) and Environmental Management Programme (EMP) Consolidate and integrate findings of specialist studies, including cumulative impacts. Compile an EMP to indicate how environmental impacts will be managed. Authorisation DEA uses the findings and EMP to decide whether or not to authorise the project. Figure 2: Flow diagram of the Scoping and EIR process C-3.1 Pre-application Consultation with the DEA It is envisaged that no pre-consultation meeting will be required to be held between SEF and the DEA. The EAP conducting the S&EIR process for the Applicant, in support of their application for an environmental authorisation and waste management licence, is deemed to have a good understanding of the information requirements of the Department for the proposed Pearly Beach WWTF, such that the Department s specific information requirements will be met during the scoping phase of this project. C-3.2 Application for a Waste Management Licence The application form informing the Department of intent to obtain a waste management licence was submitted to the DEA on the 19 th July The project reference number is 12/9/11/L982/9. C-3.3 Information Gathering During the S&EIR process, the technical specialists will identify the information that would be required for the impact assessment. In addition, the specialists will source available information about the receiving environment from reliable sources, I&APs, previous documented studies in the area and previous EIA Reports. C-3.4 Specialist Studies The following specialist studies may be required to be undertaken during the EIR phase of the Pearly Beach WWTF project: PEARLY BEACH WASTE WATER TREATMENT FACILITY DEA REF NO: 12/9/11/L982/9 Page 12

29 Vegetation / floral Assessment); Heritage: Notice of Intent to Develop; Geohydrological study (in terms of the potential impact the proposed Pearly Beach WWTF project may have on local ground water resources) C-4 PUBLIC PARTICIPATION PROCESS The principles of NEMA govern many aspects of the S&EIR process, including consultation with I&APs. These principles include the provision of sufficient and transparent information to I&APs on an on-going basis, to allow them to comment; and ensuring the participation of historically disadvantaged individuals, including women, the disabled and the youth. The principal objective of public participation is thus to inform and enrich decision-making. This is also the key role in the scoping phase of the process. C-4.1 Identification of Interested and Affected Parties I&APs representing the following sectors of society have been identified in terms of Regulation 55 of the EIA Regulations R543 of 2010: Provincial Authorities; Local Authorities; Ward Councillors; Parastatal/ Service Providers; Non-governmental Organisations; Local forums/ unions; and Adjacent Landowners. Details of the state departments and public who have registered as I&APs and provided comment on the Draft Scoping Report may be found in the stakeholder database attached to this document as Appendix 5.3. C-4.2 Public Announcement of the Pearly Beach WWTF Project The Pearly Beach WWTF project was announced on the 23 rd of August 2012 in the following manner: Publication of media advertisements (in English and Afrikaans) in a local/regional newspaper. Refer to Appendix 5.1 as attached to this document for a copy of the advertisements placed in the Hermanus Times (for English advert) and Die Burger (for Afrikaans advert); On-site notices (refer to Appendix 5.5 for a copy of the text and photo s of these site notices) advertising the S&EIR process were be placed at strategic locations on and around the site, as well as in a public venue (namely, the Gansbaai Public Library) where the Draft Scoping report was made available for 60 day review and comment period; and Distribution of notification letters by fax / by hand / registered post and via to I&APs (which included pre-identified provincial and local authorities; ward councillors; parastatals; and directly adjacent occupiers of land residing in the nearby Eluxolwenli residential area). This notification letter included a project description with locality map as well as a registration and comment sheet. PEARLY BEACH WASTE WATER TREATMENT FACILITY DEA REF NO: 12/9/11/L982/9 Page 13

30 (Refer to Appendix 5.6 for a copy of the notification letter as well as proof of registered mail delivery) C-4.3 Draft Scoping Report I&APs and relevant state departments were provided the opportunity to raise issues / comments either in writing, by telephone or via on the Draft Scoping Report for a period of 60 days (from the 23 rd August 2012 until 23 rd October 2012). The availability of the Draft Scoping Report was announced by means of notification letter to all the pre-identified stakeholders on the distribution list, and through advertisements placed in the above mentioned newspapers. In addition, the Draft Scoping Report was distributed for comment as follows: Left in a public venue (namely the Gansbaai Public Library); Hand-delivered / couriered to the relevant authorities; and Posted on SEF s website at All the comments and issues raised by the I&APs during the Draft Scoping phase was captured in an Issues and Response Report (attached to this document as Appendix 5.4). C-4.4 Final Scoping Report The Final Scoping Report will be updated with comments and/or concerns raised by I&APs during this 21 day final comment period. The Issues and Response Report will be updated accordingly with I&AP comment and attached to the Final Scoping Report. The Final Scoping Report and Plan of Study for EIA (PoS for EIA) will then be submitted to the DEA for review, and approval for commencement with the EIR phase of the project. C-4.5 Public participation during the Environmental Impact Assessment Phase Public participation during the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Phase of the S&EIR process will revolve around a review of the findings of the Environmental Impact Report (EIR) and inputs into the Environmental Management Programme (EMP). The findings will be presented in a Draft Environmental Impact Report and EMP (including the specialist studies conducted), which will be available for public review and comment. PEARLY BEACH WASTE WATER TREATMENT FACILITY DEA REF NO: 12/9/11/L982/9 Page 14

31 SECTION D: IDENTIFICATION OF IMPACTS D-1 IDENTIFICATION OF IMPORTANT ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS The key environmental impacts listed in the following section have been determined through: Legislation; and Experience of the Environmental Assessment Practitioner (EAP). The following potential issues are identified and are proposed to be carried forward into the EIR phase for further investigation and assessment: D-1.1 Biophysical Impacts Potential impacts on ground water resources (especially in terms of the prevalence of shallow water tables in the area) during the operation of the Pearly Beach WWTF and associated infrastructure; Potential impacts of increased surface water run-off (i.e. increased soil erosion) associated with the establishment of hard internal surfaces and vegetation clearing (mainly during the construction phase of the Pearly Beach WWTF); Potential impacts on ground and surface water quality due to hydrocarbon spillages from vehicles and containers (consisting of diesel, petrol, lubricants, oil) during the construction phase of the WWTF and associated infrastructure; Potential impacts on soils due to hydrocarbon spillages from vehicles and containers (consisting of diesel, petrol, lubricants, oil) during the construction phase of the WWTF and associated infrastructure; Potential impact on flora within the proposed area, stemming from construction activities such as vegetation clearing and topsoil stripping within the proposed WWTF site; and Faunal displacement mainly during the construction phase of the project D-1.2 Socio-Economic Impacts Increased dust and noise generation during the construction phase of the WWTF and associated infrastructure; Change in the visual character of the area; Potential impacts on heritage resources; Potential loss of relatively undisturbed natural land; and Job creation during the construction and operational phases of the proposed project. D-2 IDENTIFICATION OF CUMULATIVE IMPACTS Cumulative impacts, as illustrated below, occur as a result from the combined effect of incremental changes caused by other activities together with the particular project. In other words, several developments with insignificant impacts individually may, when viewed together, have a significant cumulative adverse impact on the environment (see Figure 3 below). PEARLY BEACH WASTE WATER TREATMENT FACILITY DEA REF NO: 12/9/11/L982/9 Page 15

32 Figure 3: The identification of Cumulative Impacts The following cumulative impacts have been identified in terms of the proposed Pearly Beach WWTF and associated infrastructure and warrant further investigation during the environmental impact assessment phase: Increased loss of relatively natural land (consisting of endemic vegetation); and Increased visual impact on the surrounding area associated with the establishment of the WWTF in conjunction with the Eluxolweni Housing Project. PEARLY BEACH WASTE WATER TREATMENT FACILITY DEA REF NO: 12/9/11/L982/9 Page 16

33 SECTION E: ALTERNATIVES E-1 IDENTIFICATION OF ALTERNATIVES The EIA procedures and regulations stipulate that the environmental investigation needs to consider feasible alternatives for any proposed development. Therefore, a number of possible proposals or alternatives for accomplishing the same objectives should be identified and investigated. During the EIR phase of the project, the identified alternatives will be assessed, in terms of environmental acceptability as well as socio-economic feasibility. To define the term alternatives as per Government Notice No. 543 of the NEMA EIA Regulations 2010 means: in relation to a proposed activity, means different means of meeting the general purpose and requirements of the activity, which may include alternatives to: (a) The property on which or location where it is proposed to undertake the activity; (b) The type of activity to be undertaken; (c) The design or layout of the activity; (d) The technology to be used in the activity; (e) The operational aspects of the activity; and (f) The option of not implementing the activity. The alternatives below will be further investigated during the EIR phase of the project: Alternative 1: Site/ Location Alternatives: Only one site / location has been selected for the proposed WWTP based on the already disturbed nature of the site and close proximity (350 m) to the Eluxolweni Housing Development (from which the waste water will be generated and therefore have to be treated). Alternative 2: Layout/ Design Alternatives: Two (2) alternatives are proposed in terms of the alignment route of the sewer main pipeline originating from the pump station towards the WWTF, namely: Alignment along an already existing servitude (which will follow an already ecologically disturbed route) (Refer to Sewer Rising Main Route 1 in Locality Map attached in Appendix 1) A more direct alignment route (Refer to Sewer Rising Main Route 2 in Locality Map attached in Appendix 1) which is expected to traverse through a section of relatively undisturbed vegetation. Alternative layout/ design plans may evolve from the findings of specialist studies that will be undertaken to inform the EIR phase. Alternative 3: Technology Alternatives: Various technology alternatives will be considered and investigated during the EIR phase of the project. The 3 (three) options proposed are the following: Oxidation ponds Municipal standard activated sludge sewage treatment works Prefabricated sewage treatment works The various technologies that will be considered will have implications varying from cost to effectiveness. PEARLY BEACH WASTE WATER TREATMENT FACILITY DEA REF NO: 12/9/11/L982/9 Page 17

34 Alternative 4: No Development Alternative: This option assumes that a conservative approach would ensure that the environment is not impacted upon any more than is currently the case. It is important to state that this assessment is informed by the current condition of the area. Should the DEA decline the application, the No-Go option will be followed and the status quo of the site will remain. PEARLY BEACH WASTE WATER TREATMENT FACILITY DEA REF NO: 12/9/11/L982/9 Page 18

35 SECTION F: PLAN OF STUDY FOR EIR PHASE F-1 SCOPE AND PURPOSE OF THE EIR PHASE The EIR phase will focus on the proposed Pearly Beach WWTF and the associated impacts thereof. The next step of the S&EIR process is the development of guidelines for the execution of the impact assessment and the compilation of an Environmental Impact Report, as well as an Environmental Management Programme (EMP). The compilation of these documents will take into account all comments and concerns raised by I&APs which are captured within the CRR as well as the findings of various specialist studies. The Final Environmental Impact Report and EMP will be submitted to the DEA for consideration towards environmental authorisation. F-2 METHODOLOGY OF THE EIR PHASE F-2.1 Specialist Investigations The following specialist input will be provided to support the assessment of the impacts of the proposed Pearly Beach WWTF. The following specialist studies are recommended to be incorporated into the Draft Environmental Impact Report: Botanical Assessment; Heritage Assessment: Compilation of NID; Geohydrological study (as recommended by Cape Nature); Water Quality Management report; and Soil study; The Environmental team of Specialists will focus on discipline-specific problems and examine each significant issue in further detail through the relevant specialist studies. As per the Environmental Management Guidelines, specialists Terms of Reference (ToR) must be clearly defined and clarified. This is to ensure that the specialists have covered all the issues and topics in an appropriate manner and at an appropriate level of detail. The proposed studies will take into consideration the present state of the receiving environment and provide an assessment of the impacts likely to be associated with the proposed project, as well as mitigation measures to be used to minimise possible impacts. The ToR for each specialist study is explained in greater detail below. F-2.2 Approach to Assessment of Impacts The EAP in association with the relevant specialists will provide an outline of the approach used in the study. Assumptions and sources of information will also be clearly identified. F Impact Identification and Assessment The EAP must make a clear statement, identifying the environmental impacts of the construction, operation and management of the proposed development. As far as possible, the EAPs must quantify the suite of potential environmental impacts identified in the study and assess the significance of the impacts according to the criteria set out below. Each impact will be assessed and rated. The assessment of the data must, where possible, be based on accepted scientific techniques, failing which the specialist is to make judgements based PEARLY BEACH WASTE WATER TREATMENT FACILITY DEA REF NO: 12/9/11/L982/9 Page 19

36 on his/ her professional expertise and experience. F Assessment Procedure: Proposed Impact Assessment Methodology For the purpose of assessing impacts during the EIR phase of the project to follow, the Pearly Beach WWTF project will be divided into two phases from which impacting activities can be identified, namely: Construction Phase: All the construction related activities on site, until the contractor leaves the site. Operational Phase: All activities, including the operation and maintenance of the proposed development. The activities arising from each of these phases will be included in the impact assessment tables. This is to identify activities that require certain environmental management actions to mitigate the impacts arising from them. The assessment of the impacts will be conducted according to a synthesis of criteria required by the integrated environmental management procedure. Extent The physical and spatial scale of the impact. Duration The lifetime of the impact, that is measured in relation to the lifetime of the proposed development. Intensity Is the impact destructive or benign, does it destroy the impacted environment, alters its functioning, or slightly alter the environment itself? Pro bab ility The likeli hoo Footprint Site Regional National International Short Term Short-Medium Term Medium Term Long Term Permanent Low Medium High Improbable The impacted area extends only as far as the activity, such as footprint occurring within the total site area. The impact could affect the whole, or a significant portion of the site. The impact could affect the area including the neighbouring farms, the transport routes and the adjoining towns. The impact could have an effect that expands throughout the country (South Africa). Where the impact has international ramifications that extend beyond the boundaries of South Africa. The impact will either disappear with mitigation or will be mitigated through a natural process in a period shorter than that of the construction phase. The impact will be relevant through to the end of a construction phase. The impact will last up to the end of the development phases, where after it will be entirely negated. The impact will continue or last for the entire operational lifetime of the development, but will be mitigated by direct human action or by natural processes thereafter. This is the only class of impact, which will be non-transitory. Mitigation either by man or natural process will not occur in such a way or in such a time span that the impact can be considered transient. The impact alters the affected environment in such a way that the natural processes or functions are not affected. The affected environment is altered, but functions and processes continue, albeit in a modified way. Function or process of the affected environment is disturbed to the extent where it temporarily or permanently ceases. The possibility of the impact occurring is none, due either to the circumstances, design or experience. The chance of this impact occurring is zero (0%). PEARLY BEACH WASTE WATER TREATMENT FACILITY DEA REF NO: 12/9/11/L982/9 Page 20

37 Possible Likely Highly Likely Definite The possibility of the impact occurring is very low, due either to the circumstances, design or experience. The chances of this impact occurring is defined as 25%. There is a possibility that the impact will occur to the extent that provisions must therefore be made. The chances of this impact occurring is defined as 50%. It is most likely that the impacts will occur at some stage of the development. Plans must be drawn up before carrying out the activity. The chances of this impact occurring is defined as 75%. The impact will take place regardless of any prevention plans, and only mitigation actions or contingency plans to contain the effect can be relied on. The chance of this impact occurring is defined as 100%. Mitigation The impacts that are generated by the development can be minimised if measures are implemented in order to reduce the impacts. The mitigation measures ensure that the development considers the environment and the predicted impacts in order to minimise impacts and achieve sustainable development. Determination of Significance Without Mitigation Significance is determined through a synthesis of impact characteristics as described in the above paragraphs. It provides an indication of the importance of the impact in terms of both tangible and intangible characteristics. The significance of the impact without mitigation is the prime determinant of the nature and degree of mitigation required. Where the impact is positive, significance is noted as positive. Significance will be rated on the following scale: No significance: The impact is not substantial and does not require any mitigation action; Low: The impact is of little importance, but may require limited mitigation; Medium: The impact is of importance and is therefore considered to have a negative impact. Mitigation is required to reduce the negative impacts to acceptable levels; and High: The impact is of major importance. Failure to mitigate, with the objective of reducing the impact to acceptable levels, could render the entire development option or entire project proposal unacceptable. Mitigation is therefore essential. Determination of Significance With Mitigation Determination of significance refers to the foreseeable significance of the impact after the successful implementation of the necessary mitigation measures. Significance with mitigation will be rated on the following scale: No significance: The impact will be mitigated to the point where it is regarded as insubstantial; Low: The impact will be mitigated to the point where it is of limited importance; Low to medium: The impact is of importance, however, through the implementation of the correct mitigation measures such potential impacts can be reduced to acceptable levels; Medium: Notwithstanding the successful implementation of the mitigation measures, to reduce the negative impacts to acceptable levels, the negative impact will remain of significance. However, taken within the overall context of the project, the persistent impact does not constitute a fatal flaw; Medium to high: The impact is of major importance but through the implementation of the correct mitigation measures, the negative impacts will be reduced to acceptable levels; and High: The impact is of major importance. Mitigation of the impact is not possible on a cost-effective basis. The impact is regarded as high importance and taken within the overall context of the project, is regarded as a fatal flaw. An impact regarded as high significance, after mitigation could render the entire development option or entire project proposal unacceptable. Assessment Weighting Each aspect within an impact description was assigned a series of quantitative criteria. Such criteria are likely to differ during the different stages of the project s life cycle. In order to establish a defined base upon which it becomes feasible to make an informed decision, it will be necessary to weigh and rank all the identified criteria. PEARLY BEACH WASTE WATER TREATMENT FACILITY DEA REF NO: 12/9/11/L982/9 Page 21

38 Ranking, Weighting and Scaling For each impact under scrutiny, a scaled weighting factor will be attached to each respective impact. The purpose of assigning such weightings serve to highlight those aspects considered the most critical to the various stakeholders and ensure that each specialist s element of bias is taken into account. The weighting factor also provides a means whereby the impact assessor can successfully deal with the complexities that exist between the different impacts and associated aspect criteria. Simply, such a weighting factor is indicative of the importance of the impact in terms of the potential effect that it could have on the surrounding environment. Therefore, the aspects considered to have a relatively high value will score a relatively higher weighting than that which is of lower importance (See Figure below: Weighting description). Figure 4: Description of bio-physical assessment parameters with its respective weighting Identifying the Potential Impacts Without Mitigation Measures (WOM) Following the assignment of the necessary weights to the respective aspects, criteria are summed and multiplied by their assigned weightings, resulting in a value for each impact (prior to the implementation of mitigation measures). Equation 1: Significance Rating (WOM) = (Extent + Intensity + Duration + Probability) x Weighting Factor Identifying the Potential Impacts With Mitigation Measures (WM) In order to gain a comprehensive understanding of the overall significance of the impact, after implementation of the mitigation measures, it will be necessary to re-evaluate the impact. Mitigation Efficiency (ME) The most effective means of deriving a quantitative value of mitigated impacts is to assign each significance rating value (WOM) a mitigation effectiveness (ME) rating. The allocation of such a rating is a measure of the efficiency and effectiveness, as identified through professional experience and empirical evidence of how effectively the proposed mitigation measures will manage the impact. Thus, the lower the assigned value the greater the effectiveness of the proposed mitigation measures and subsequently, the lower the impacts with mitigation. Equation 2: Significance Rating (WM) = Significance Rating (WOM) x Mitigation Efficiency Or WM = WOM x ME Significance Following Mitigation (SFM) The significance of the impact after the mitigation measures are taken into consideration. The efficiency of the mitigation measure determines the significance of the impact. The level of impact will, therefore, be seen in its entirety with all considerations taken into account. PEARLY BEACH WASTE WATER TREATMENT FACILITY DEA REF NO: 12/9/11/L982/9 Page 22