LNG assesses livelihood impacts [Archives:2006/931/Local News]

SANA'A, March 20 ) Preparing for a major project expected to produce 6.9 million tons of natural gas annually, Yemen LNG (Liquefied Natural Gas) Company has conducted a thorough assessment of the project's potential social and environmental impacts.

The project is considered one of Yemen's most promising sectors in future decades. Yemen LNG organized a press conference at the Taj Sheba Hotel in Sana'a to discuss findings of the Environment and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA).

Applying the best international standards and practices, Yemen LNG attempted to prevent and mitigate any possible damage, as well as fulfill its obligation of ensuring social and environmental sustainability.

The ESIA aimed to provide authorities, shareholders and communities with careful analysis of livelihoods that might be affected by the project and a Yemen LNG management response to address socio-economic and environmental concerns.

To fulfill its commitment to its social and environmental responsibilities, Yemen LNG has conducted a range of surveys and studies since 1997 along the future pipeline route that will connect processing plants near Safir in Marib with the export hub in Belhaf on the Shabwa coast.

National and international experts carefully selected the final pipeline route and the LNG plant site from among a number of alternatives. Selection was made in order to minimize impacts on livelihoods and natural habitats by choosing a route passing mainly through deserts and sparsely populated areas.

Studies covered a wide spectrum of issues ranging from soil and groundwater issues, marine and terrestrial biodiversity to economic, infrastructure, tourist and archeological potential.
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