Cumulative Effects Mitigation and Management at Sub-Regional Levels (Part 2)
Moderator: Larry Canter
Presentations
The Use of Offsets in EIAs as a Way of Mitigating Cumulative Impacts for Major Resource Proposals in the Northwest of Western Australia
Presenter(s): Garry Middle
The use of offsets as a way of counterbalancing impacts of proposals is an emerging tool in EIA, and can be one way of addressing cumulative impacts. This paper examines some recent major resource related proposals for the north of WA and the effectiveness of offsets in addressing impacts and the drivers for the use of offsets. The usefulness and limitations of offsets are discussed, and the key issues that are emerging within a policy context identified.
Mitigation of Cumulative Effects on Hawaiian Spinner Dolphins Through Collaborative Management
Presenter(s): Jon Isaacs, Anne Southam
Scientists have documented behavioral changes in Hawaiian spinner dolphins due to cumulative effects of increased human activities. Shallow bays, popular for humans, are prime dolphin habitat for resting, caring for young, and avoiding predators. Swim-with-dolphin tours have also increased in popularity. NMFS is leading collaborative efforts to mitigate impacts of activities through a Spinner Dolphin Working Group and Dolphin Smart Program. NMFS hopes to minimize effects through rule making, education, and enforcement of time-area closures and monitoring programs.
Addressing Cumulative Environmental Impacts in Development Projects: Experience and Emerging Lessons at the IDB
Presenter(s): Janine Ferretti, Elizabeth Brito
The Environment and Safeguards Compliance Policy of the Inter-American Development Bank requires that cumulative impacts be part of the range of effects and impacts examined in an environmental assessment. Among some of the key issues the IDB faces are those related to the carrying out of the assessment as well as those related to developing the strategies and actions to address the cumulative impacts identified. The presentation will address questions regarding the responsibilities of proponents and other relevant agencies.
Adaptive Management and Integrated Decision Making
Presenter(s): Larry Canter, Sam Atkinson
Adaptive Management (AM) is being used as a follow-up to EIA/CEA studies. Typical AM processes incorporate management objectives, conceptual to quantitative models, management choices, monitoring, systematic decision making, and stakeholder collaboration. Such processes reduce cumulative effects uncertainties, and inform decision making relative to local and regional operational changes to minimize cumulative effects. Advantages and concerns regarding AM will be highlighted along with AM case studies. Particular attention will be given to multi-agency collaboration within the case studies.