Kenya - Water and Sanitation Development Project : Environmental and Social Impact Assessment Comprehensive Project Report for the Baricho Plant Solarization Project

Overview & Synopsis

The development objective of Water and Sanitation Development Project for Kenya is to remove screenings and grit from the purely storm water conveyance system before discharge into the Indian Ocean. Some of the negative impacts include: Environmental Pollution ( Noise and vibration, dust and soil pollution; Solid waste generation and wastewater management; worker welfare issues; Damage to property and public utilities; Labour influx that may lead to spread of HIV/AIDS, STIs, and poor sanitation; Impact on traffic and difficulty of access; Labour related issues; Vandalism and crimes; Operation Health, Safety hazards; Risk of Theft of the Solar Panels; and Waste from inverters, mounting structures, and cabling. Some of the mitigation measures include: Early notifications should be made to the residents prior the commencement of works within their area; All solid waste will be collected at a central location designated by the Contractor preferably at the campsite and on project site, using clearly labelled and color-coded containers; Provision of adequate drinking water and sanitation facilities; Limit damage to property by observing construction area limits by clear demarcation; Develop HIV/AIDS awareness programs or initiatives to target the construction workers, community, institutions and the general members of the community, particularly the youth; with the objective of reducing the risks of exposure and the spread of HIV/AIDS; Adequate and appropriate warning signs should be placed at potential risk locations and should be visible at night; Reducing labour influx by giving first priority during labour recruitment to the local community; Provision of security lighting within the project sites; Fire extinguishers should be located at identified fire points around the site; Conduct public sensitization programs on importance of not interfering with the installed facilities; and Establish a specific waste management plan for managing electronic waste (e-waste) from solar panels and associated components, as these materials can contain heavy metals and other hazardous substances that may leak into the environment.