Environmental & Social Review Summary
Project Number
7087
Date ESRS Disclosed
Feb 5, 2010
Country
China
Region
East Asia and the Pacific
Last Updated Date
Dec 31, 2016
Environmental Category
B - Limited
Status
Completed
Sector
Utilities
Industry
other
Department
Gbl Infrastructure & Natural Resources
Project Description
Environmental Review Summary (ERS)
Project Name China-Fairyoung Ports
Region Asia
Sector Transportation
Project No. 007087
1. The project involves the construction of a container berth and the upgrading of existing mineral ore berths at the port facilities in Nanjing, and the construction of a container berth at the existing port in Xiamen. Completion of the project at Nanjing will increase mineral ore capacity from 4 million tpa to 8 million tpa and establish an annual container handling capacity of 250,000 TEUs. The container facility at Xiamen aims to capture growing traffic from a booming Special Economic Zone in China by establishing an annual container handling capacity of 150,000 TEUs.
2. This is a category B project according to IFC''s environmental review procedure because specific impacts may result which can be avoided or mitigated by adhering to generally recognized performance standards, guidelines or design criteria. The review of this project consisted of appraising technical and environmental information submitted by the project sponsor, and the technical appraisal and site review completed by IFC’s staff. The following potential environmental, health and safety impacts of the project were analyzed:
· air emissions;
· liquid effluents;
· spill prevention;
· solid wastes;
· protection of coastal resources;
· general employee safety;
· fire prevention;
· emergency response; and
· employee exposure to noise, dust and hazardous materials.
The information provided about how these potential impacts are addressed in the development of the proposed project is summarized in the paragraphs that follow.
3. Air emissions and stormwater runoff are two primary environmental concerns for the project and are associated with the handling of coal and iron ore at the Nanjing facilities. Fairyoung engaged Dutch consultant, Parsons Brinkerhoff Limited to evaluate the ports’ operations and establish mitigation measures. Primary sources of dust emissions are the berths’ equipment which includes large cranes and the stacker reclaimer which can handle over 1,000 tons of coal or ore per hour. Fairyoung will implement the recommended mitigation measures, including refurbishing the existing dust suppression system and by using pressurized mist at the berths and water spray at the rehandling and storage areas. Additionally, wind barriers will be installed and trees planted in the surrounding areas. There are no significant sources of air emissions at the Xiamen facility.
4. The estimated maximum stormwater runoff for the Nanjing facility is 1,400 cubic meters per day. The estimated TSS content of the runoff is above 350 mg/l, consisting mainly of iron ore and coal dust; the corresponding TSS content of wash waters is estimated at 1,000 mg/l. The original design of the terminal had a drainage system and treatment plant to reduce the TSS to under 200 mg/l prior to discharge to the Yangtze River, which has a natural high sediment loading, in accordance with the Chinese Standard for Class ii wastewater. Historically, the wastewater treatment plant has not been operational; both the drainage system and treatment plant will be refurbished and placed in operation at an early stage during the project.
5. Domestic sewage is collected and treated at both the Xiamen and Nanjing facilities prior to discharge to the sea and Yangtze River, respectively. Shipboard sewage, garbage and oily wastewater is collected for the treatment by the Port Authority.
6. The terminals have established spill prevention, fire protection and emergency response programs to effectively respond to potential spills and fires. The underground storage tank for bunker oil tank at the Xiamen facility will be monitored for leakage. Employees are trained on measures of spill prevention and control, and fire protection and response. Fire hydrants, automatic alarms, fire extinguishers and emergency phones are installed at the terminals. In the event of a major terminal, rail or marine emergency, the Port Authority will provide primary services. Fairyoung will conduct emergency response inspections and drills, in coordination with local authorities.
7. The terminals’ businesses will not involve the handling or storage of bulk hazardous materials; acknowledging coal piles can represent a potential hazard which will be addressed at Nanjing. Containerized hazardous materials will be handled at both facilities, with the prior review and approval from the Port Authority.
8. Solid waste generated at the terminals as well as solid waste from vessels docked at the terminals will be collected and transported to the municipal or harbor site by the appropriate authority. Clean up waste from spills of hazardous materials will be disposed of in coordination with local authorities.
9. Clinic services are available for Fairyoung employees at both terminals. The clinics are staffed with doctors and nurses, and appropriately equipped to handle examinations, first aid and emergencies. Employees are required to have an annual medical examination in accordance with health regulations.
10. Fairyoung recognizes the key elements to safety including controlled access of pedestrian entry, equipment guarding, installation of visible warning signage, preventive maintenance, employee training, and workplace inspections and monitoring. Safety Departments established at both terminals provide employee training, including the use of personnel protective equipment, fire protection and emergency response, and the prevention of injuries from falls and improper lifting and climbing.
11. Rotating and dangerous equipment is guarded, and excavated trenches, pits, elevated platforms and water bays are provided with guardrails or safe covers. Electrical devices and power cables are properly installed and grounded. Material handling equipment, ropes and cables will be regularly inspected and maintained in accordance with governmental safety rules.
12. The Safety Department at each of the terminals carry out regular inspections of safety guards and equipment, and monitoring of the workplace for noise, dust and hazardous materials. Employees are provided with hearing and respiratory protective equipment in accordance with governmental and World Bank requirements. Sufficient ventilation will be provided for employees working in confined areas. Personnel also will wear protective clothing with high visibility jackets and safety helmets.
13. Based on its review of available information regarding potential environmental impacts and proposed mitigation measures, IFC concludes that the proposed project is being designed to meet government of the Peoples Republic of China requirements, and World Bank policies, and environmental, health and safety guidelines.
14. IFC will monitor Fairyoung’s ongoing compliance with World Bank policies and guidelines during the life of the project by evaluating monitoring reports submitted annually to IFC by the sponsor and by conducting periodic site reviews during project supervision.
Environmental and Social Mitigation Measures
Broad Community Support
Related SII
