E4423 ALBANIA ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES PROJECT ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT REPORT ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MANAGEMENT FRAMEWORK INTEGRATED PEST MANAGEMENT PLAN (Final 11.10.2013) TABLE OF CONTENTS SUMMARY 1 1. Introduction 1 2. Scope of Work 1 3. Environmental and Social Management Framework 1 4. Stakeholder and Public Consultation Process 2 5. Analysis of Potential Environmental Impacts 2 5.1 Air 3 5.2 Soil and Groundwater 4 5.3 Forests 4 5.4 Surface Water 4 5.5 Biodiversity and Protected Areas 5 6. Environmental Management Plan 11 7. Environmental and Social Management Framework 11 7.1 Environmental and Social Screening Process 12 7.2 Annual Environmental Performance Audit 13 ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT REPORT 1 1. Introduction 2 1.1 Scope of Work 2 1.2 Environmental and Social Management Framework 2 1.3 Stakeholder and Public Consultation Process 3 1.4 Layout of this report 4 2. Project Description 4 2.1 Project Objectives 5 2.2 Description of Project Components 7 2.3 Potential Environmental Impacts 11 3. ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL REGULATORY FRAMEWORK 11 3.1 WB Safeguards Policies 11 3.2 Albanian Environmental Policy and International Commitments 14 3.3 National Environmental and Forestry Regulatory Framework 18 3.4 EU Directives 28 3.5 Key Institutional Framework 28 4. Project Context Description 31 4.1 Description of the Environmental Baseline 32 5. Environmental IMpacts and Mitigation Assessment 50 5.1 Overall Assessment 50 5.2 Analysis of Potential Environmental Impacts 52 6. Analysis of Alternatives 61 6.1 ‘Zero Alternative’ Scenario 61 6.2 Potential Project Alternatives to the ESP 61 i 7. Environmental Management Plan 62 7.1 Identification and Description of Adverse Environmental Impacts and Mitigation measures 63 7.2 Definition and Description of a Monitoring Program, Institutional Responsibility and Implementation Schedule 64 7.3 Sample EMP in Rubik Commune 64 7.4 Estimate of EMP Costs 67 Annex 1 List of stakeholders interviewed during field visits 68 Annex 2 Annex I and II of the EIA Law 69 Annex 3 Details of main EU Directives relevant to ESP 75 Annex 4 Details of activities of Environmental Impacts Evaluation Table 86 ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MANAGEMENT FRAMEWORK 1 1. intoroduction 1 1.1 Environmental and Social Screening Process 1 1.2 Outline of the Screening Process 2 1.3 Institutional Framework for the EMF of the ESP 3 1.4 Annual Environmental Performance Audit 3 1.5 Training and Capacity Building for EMF Implementation 4 1.6 Estimated Costs for the EMF 6 Annex 1: List of potential environmental impacts 1 Annex 2 ESP Grant Activity Environmental And Social Screening Form 12 Annex 3 EMF Environmental Field Appraisal Form 15 Annex 4 Environmental Management Plan 17 Annex 5 ESP Sample EMP for Rubik Commune 31 Annex 6 EMF Annual Environmental Audit Form 34 INTEGRATED PEST MANAGEMENT PLAN 1 1. Introduction 1 2. Requirements of WB Operational Policy 4.09 1 3. Requirements of Albanian Law for pesticides use 1 4. Characteristics of IPMP for ESP 2 4.1 IPMP Implementation Cycle for the ESP 2 4.2 IPMP Institutional Responsibility 3 Annex 1 List of Permitted Crop Protection products 4 ii List of Tables Table 1: Environmental impacts and mitigation measures 5 Table 2: Project Components and Activities 10 Table 3: Summary of WB Operational Procedures applicable to ESP 14 Table 4: Changes in forestry land structure between 1990 and 2009 39 Table 5: A summary of the present situation for the protected areas network in Albania. 49 Table 6: Proposed Sample Environmental PSR Indicators 52 Table 7: Potential impact and their mitigation 55 Table 8: Foreseen EMF activities and related responsibilities 3 Table 9: Recommended training requirements 5 Table 10: Foreseen EMF Activities with potential costs 6 Table 11: Pest Management Issues 2 List of Figures: Figure 1: Process of environmental screening for management plan development and grant applications (investment plans) 13 Figure 3: Carbon Sequestration Activities in Ulza Commune 33 Figure 4: Carbon Sequestration Activities in Ulza Commune 34 Figure 5: Land erosion along the national road near Burrel 34 Figure 6: Land erosion along the national road in Komsia Commune 34 Figure 7: Land Erosion across Albania 35 Figure 8: Land use in Albania in 2011 36 Figure 9: Proposed network of soil quality monitoring stations 36 Figure 10: Proposed network for groundwater quality monitoring. 37 Figure 11: Silvicultural intervention in the Commune of Baz 40 Figure 12: Silvicultural intervention in the Commune of Baz 40 Figure 13: Forest Cover in the Country. 41 Figure 14: The river Fan in the month of August from Rubik Commune 42 Figure 15: Main Watersheds of Albania 42 Figure 16: Surface water quality monitoring stations 44 Figure 17: Water reservoir for irrigation built under NRDP in Suçi 45 Figure 18: Water irrigation drenches built under NRDP in Suçi 45 Figure 19: Water reservoir for irrigation built under NRDP in Suçi 46 Figure 20: Agricultural fields irrigated by NRDP water reservoirs 46 Figure 21: Map of protected areas network in Albania 49 Figure 22:Biodiversity Monitoring network Map of protected areas network in Albania proposed by EMP 50 Figure 23: PSR Framework 51 Figure 24: The lowest of a Check Dam system 64 Figure 25: Evidence that the check dam, built 5 years ago, has almost reached its full upstream capacity. 65 Figure 26: The check dam seen from upstream 65 Figure 27: A larger check dam near the Bizantine Church. 66 Figure 28: The slope near the check dam with evidence of land slide and reforestation intervention 66 Figure 29: The old copper smelter factory and the River Fan 67 Figure 30: Process of environmental screening in ESP MC plans Development and Grant Application 2 iii List of Acronyms and Abbreviations AFP Albania Forestry Project ASCI Areas for Special Conservation Interest CFPMP Communal Forestry and Pasture Management Plans CMMP Communal Microcatchment DFS District Forestry Service DGFP General Directorate of Forests and Pastures EA Environmental Assessment EIA Environmental Impact Assessment EMF Environmental Management Framework EMP Environmental Management Plan EPR Environmental Performance Review EU European Union FAO Food and Agriculture Organisation FPDS Forest and Pasture Strategy FPUA Forest and Pasture User Associations GDP Gross Domestic Product GEF Global Environment Facility GoA Government of Albania LAG Local Action Groups LEAP Local Environmental Action Plan MEFWFA Ministry of Environment Forest and Water Administration MIS Management Information System MC Micro-Catchment NBSAP National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan NEAP National Environmental Action Plan NGO Non-Governmental Organisation NRDP Natural Resources Development Project PCD Project Concept Note PES Payment for Environmental Services PIM Project Implementation Manual PMT Project Management Team RC Regional Coordinator REA Regional Environment Agency SA Social Assessment Sida Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency SNV Netherlands Development Organization UNDP United Nations Development Program UNECE United Nations Economic Commission for Europe WFP World Food Program WRM Water Resources Management iv Summary 1. INTRODUCTION The Government of Albania (GoA) has applied for financial assistance (US$ 22.88) from the World Bank and other Donors (Swedish International Development Coop- eration Agency-SIDA, Global Environmental Facility –GEF, other WB Trust Funds) for the preparation and implementation of an Environmental Service Project (ESP) whose main objective is to implement the existing Communal Forestry and Pasture Management Plans (CFPMP) and Communal Microcatchment (CMCPs) supported under the National Resources Development Project (NRDP) which was finalised in 2011 and extend the process of participatory micro-catchment management planning and implementations to all communes in Albanian. This document describes the results of the Environmental Assessment (EA) carried out for the preparation of the ESP and includes the Environmental Social Manage- ment Framework (ESMF) developed for its implementation. 2. SCOPE OF WORK The project has been classified by WB as an environment category B. It therefore needs to undergo an Environmental Assessment (EA) whose main objective is the identification and assessment of the potential negative environmental impacts of the proposed project activities so as to either prevent them or minimize them through ad- equate mitigation measures. Given the specific characteristics of the ESP, in which activities to be financed through its Component 1 are only foreseen at this present stage and will only be con- firmed during project implementation, WB procedures foresee that an Environmen- tal Management Framework (EMF) is developed so as to allow adequate screening of the activities proposed for financing. In case screening through application of the EMF indicates that potential negative environmental impacts are possible, the Framework gives indications for the prepara- tion of specific Environmental Management Plans (EMPs). 3. ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MANAGEMENT FRAMEWORK The preparation of an Environmental Management Framework (EMF) is part of the requirements of the ESP project preparation efforts. The objective of the EMF is to prepare a list of the activities that will potentially be implemented during the years of project development, determine their potential environmental impacts and provide recommendations for the mitigation measures that will need to be put into place in order to minimize the negative impacts. The EMF provides for processes, tools and framework of institutional responsibilities to enable project personnel to carry out the 1 necessary screening and assessments in order to adequately plan for the environmen- tal management of the ESP activities. Details on the methodology of EMF applica- tion and it specific tools are given in the dedicated Chapter 9. The EMF for ESP has been prepared on the basis of the WB 2008 EMF toolkit. Particular attention has been given to the lessons learnt from the EMF application to NRDP activities in or- der to simplify the specific tools as much as possible and make them easier to use and to understand by the Commune and FPUAs staff. In addition, an effort has been made to identify the capacity training needs of the local associations and institutions so as to make a more efficient application of the EMF possible. As the overall project is Category B, the EMF includes provisions for excluding Category A projects from financing and also includes measures for pest-management related environmental risks. 4. STAKEHOLDER AND PUBLIC CONSULTATION PROCESS World Bank Operational Policies foresee that the EA of a category B project undergo a Public Consultation Process. Albanian Law requires public consultation only in the case of projects for which a full EIA is required. A first Public Consultation Workshop was organized in Tirana on the 31st of the July to present the planned activities and emphasis was made on the importance to have the audience contributions to be able to fine tune the instruments used in NRDP im- plementation in order to make the whole process more effective. Participants were stakeholders identified by the PMT and the Consultant team. The complete list of the participants is provided in PIM Annex H. Minutes of the work- shop are provided in PIM Annex H. Stakeholder Consultation was also carried out during the different field trips carried out while preparing the EA and the EMF. Annex 1 contains the list of the stakehold- ers who were consulted in these occasions. A final Public Consultation Workshop was held on the 26th of September. The list of Participants and the Minutes of the Meeting are presented in the Annex to this re- port. 5. ANALYSIS OF POTENTIAL ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS It is not generally expected that the ESP will have major negative environmental im- pacts, but rather that it will help fight land and watershed degradation through both physical interventions and the empowerment of rural population and of local and central institutions. The following are some of the actions foreseen by the ESP that will result in positive environmental impacts: 2 - ESP will continue the successful processes of community based regeneration of forests and pasture areas started by the AFP and continued under the NRDP. - Forest and pasture regeneration will fight land degradation an erosion issues suffered in large areas of the country. - Interventions focusing on water management (irrigation and flood control) will contribute to both improve livelihoods of rural upland communities and lessen erosion effects. - Development of new income production activities such as sustainable tourism and basic produce processing will be explored with the aim of bringing new resources to the rural communities and allow for the their more sustainable management of their forest and pastoral resources. - The effort that will be made to address potential key policy constraints and capacity building is aimed to drive sustainable development of the upland ar- eas. The potential environmental impacts (both positive and negative) of each of the pres- ently foreseen interventions foreseen by component of the ESP are discussed in the following Paragraphs and listed in detail in Table 7. As the project activities impact directly on the livelihoods of the local rural commu- nities, particular attention will need to be paid to indirect and cumulative impacts of interventions and of potential impacts that may be a consequence of ESP impact on local economies and society. Proposed environmental mitigations corresponding to each of the foreseen activities listed in the table indicating the responsibility for implementation are presented and discussed in the EMF activity Table in Chapter 8. 5.1 Air The foreseen impacts of ESP activities on air quality are mostly insignificant. As in the case of the NRDP, the impact on air of sustainable forest and pastures interven- tions will be in relation to Climate Change through Carbon Sequestration and will mostly be positive impacts. The only potentially negative impact could come from burning of sradicated shrubs resulting from cleaning of abandoned pasture lands as it would release Carbon in the atmosphere. To minimize the impact, the shrubs should be cut and used for house- hold cooking or winter heating. The minor negative impacts on air quality is the dust emissions arising from the ac- tivities related to erosion control and prevention such as construction of check dams and fences to protect pasture areas. These impacts will nevertheless be minimal and temporary. 3 5.2 Soil and Groundwater A number of the activities foreseen by the ESP are focused on regeneration of forests and of degraded or abandoned pasture lands with the ultimate objective to prevent soil erosion. Only minor environmental impacts on soil and groundwater can be ex- pected from these and examples are the following: - Potential minor risk of leakages of fuel/oil due to use of transport vehicles; - Potential contamination of groundwater if fertilizers and pesticides are used to improve forest health and growth patterns. These issues will successfully be addressed by appropriate maintenance and adequate leak prevention measures for the vehicles potentially used in the activities and, more importantly, appropriate training of farmers for use of pesticides and fertilizers. With particular reference to the issues of chemicals usage, an Integrated Pesticide Management Plan is a part of the EMF. 5.3 Forests The overall impact of the ESP activities will be positive for forests. Potential foreseen environmental impacts include the following: a) Potential increase of grazing and/or harvesting pressure on unprotected areas in case of limiting access on selected areas of forests and pastures. b) Reduction of forest diversity/loss of biodiversity through excessive use of Robinia pseudoaccacia and Mediterranean pine tree. c) Impoverishment/alteration of soil quality Mitigation measures include ensuring participatory process in the selection of the sites so as to respect everyone’s rights and minimize overuse/overgrazing issues on other areas, monitoring of number of livestock numbers and adequate diversification of species to be used in reforestation interventions. 5.4 Surface Water The main foreseen ESP interventions directly impacting surface waters are the ones focusing on the construction and rehabilitation of irrigation networks, water reser- voirs and pumping stations. A specific effort must be made during ESP implementation to ensure that Commune participatory planning must take place at the base of ESP grants allocation to ensure benefits arrive to the weaker parts of the communities. Additional minor environmental impacts may be caused by spillage of potentially harmful substances/chemicals during construction, if any are used. Adequate moni- toring of used substances and leakage/spillage prevention measures will further min- imize these risks. 4 5.5 Biodiversity and Protected Areas As in the case of forests, the overall impact of the ESP activities on protected areas and biodiversity should be positive as its main focus is sustainable forest and pasture management. Potential foreseen negative environmental impacts of which some evidence is availa- ble from NRDP implementation include the following: a) Reduction of forest diversity/loss of biodiversity through excessive use of Black locust (Robinia pseudoaccacia) and Mediterranean pine tree. b) Impoverishment/alteration of soil quality. c) Potential visual/landscape impact due to construction of check dams, fences and other permanent structures. All these potential negative impacts can be minimized by appropriate planning and diversification of species used for reforestation activities and adequate choice of the materials to be used for the constructions. Measures are included in the ESP EMF which will also avoid the financing of harm- ful activities inside Protected Areas. The following table lists all the activities presently foreseen for the ESP giving a short but detailed description of expected potential positive, negative and cumulative environmental impacts. Activities are subdivided in sections by project component and impacts are indicated positive/negative or neutral per environmental aspect. Table 1: Environmental impacts and mitigation measures 5 Project Component and Activity Area of Impact Potential Positive impacts Potential Negative impacts Cumulative Impact Signifi- -/ √ negative/positive; x neutral cance/Risk waste Land degrada- Surface water management Groundwater Waste water Biodiversity Landscape Air quality Change Climate Noise Solid tion Component A – Ipard Like Agri-Environmental Measures A.1 Provision of competitive grants Details are given in the following cells for rural development measures A.2 Implementation of Communal Forestry and Pasture Management Plans (CFPMPs) existing under the NRDP . The following activities can also be included in the Implementation of MicroCatchment Management Plans (Section A3) Forest Protection: ban community X X x √ √ √ x x x x -Forest regeneration -potential increased pressure on other forest areas Positive: high access to forest -Reduction of soil erosion effects Negative: low -Increased soil moisture retention Cumulative: low - Improved quality, health and productivity of communal forests Silvicultural activities: - - √ √ √ √ x x - - -Forest regeneration Potential impacts on groundwater through use of pesti- Positive: high (see details in Annex) -Reduction of soil erosion effects cides and fertilisers; Negative: medium -Increased soil moisture retention Potential groundwater contamination issues due to fuel Cumulative: - Improved quality, health and leakages of transport vehicles; low productivity of communal forests Potential noise and dust impact on natural habitat due to usage of transport vehicles: Potential soil erosion issues due to tracts made by transport vehicles. Harvesting and Utilisation: x - √ √ √ √ x x - - Forest regeneration Potential noise and air quality issues due to road transport Positive: high (see details in Annex) -Reduction of soil erosion effects of forest products; Negative: low -Increased soil moisture retention Potential groundwater contamination issues due to fuel Cumulative: low -Improved quality, health and produc- leakages of transport vehicles; tivity of communal forests Potential soil erosion issues due to tracts made by transport vehicles; Afforestation x - √ √ √ √ x x x x Forest regeneration Potential impacts on groundwater through use of pesti- Positive: high -(see details in Annex)- -Reduction of soil erosion effects cides and fertilisers Negative: low -Increased soil moisture retention Cumulative: low -Improved quality, health and produc- tivity of communal forests Reforestation x - √ √ √ √ - - - - Forest regeneration Potential impacts on groundwater through use of pesti- Positive: high (see details in Annex) -Reduction of soil erosion effects cides and fertilisers Negative: low -Increased soil moisture retention Cumulative: low -Improved quality, health and produc- tivity of communal forests Seedling Production x - x x √ x x x x x Potential improvement of quality of Potential impacts on groundwater through use of pesti- Positive: high 6 Project Component and Activity Area of Impact Potential Positive impacts Potential Negative impacts Cumulative Impact Signifi- -/ √ negative/positive; x neutral cance/Risk waste Land degrada- Surface water management Groundwater Waste water Biodiversity Landscape Air quality Change Climate Noise Solid tion (see details in Annex) seedlings and consequent impact on cides ; Negative: low soil; reduced erosion and increased Potential transport issues and waste management issues Cumulative: low soil moisture retention; related to packing. -Improved quality, health and produc- tivity of communal forests Erosion prevention and control √ √ √ √ √ √ - - - - Reduction of erosion processes; Potential impacts on groundwater through use of fertilis- Positive: high (other than forestation) Introduction of cultivations variety. ers; Negative: low (see details in Annex) Potential intensification of grazing on adjacent lands which Cumulative: low are not fenced. Protection of degraded pasture x x √ √ x √ x x x x Reduction of erosion process erosion Potential overgrazing issues on other land parcels Positive: high land and newly planted forest by and increased soil moisture retention; Negative: low construction of fences Cumulative: low Construction of small erosion con- √ x √ √ √ √ x x - - Reduction of erosion process. Potential noise and dust impact on natural environment Positive: high trol structures (check dams) during construction and visual impact due to permanent Negative: low structures. Cumulative: low A.3.Preparation of Communal Micro-catchment Plans (CMCPs) A.3. implementation of Communal Micro-catchment Plans (CMCPs) Pasture Protection (fencing) x x √ √ x √ x x - - Reduction of erosion process erosion -Potential overgrazing issues on other land parcels; Positive: high and increased soil moisture retention; -Potential noise and dust impact on natural environment Negative: low during construction and visual impact due to permanent Cumulative: low structures. - Rehabilitation (cleaning shrubs and x x √ √ √ - - x - x Improved pasture lands, less land Potential shrub disposal issues such as burning; Positive: high rocks) surfaces exposed to overgrazing; Negative: low Cumulative: low Silvopastoral planting x - √ √ √ √ x x x x Improved pasture lands, less land Potential impacts on groundwater if fertilisers and pesti- Positive: high surfaces exposed to overgrazing cides are used Negative: low Cumulative: low Overseeding to enrich the vegeta- x - √ √ √ √ x x x x Improved pasture lands, less land Potential impacts on groundwater if fertilisers and pesti- Positive: high tion surfaces exposed to overgrazing. cides are used Negative: low Cumulative: low Construction of water points for x √ - x √ √ x x x x Improved livestock quality and limita- Potential l impacts on groundwater through gathering of Positive: high livestock tion of grazing areas; livestock; Negative: low 7 Project Component and Activity Area of Impact Potential Positive impacts Potential Negative impacts Cumulative Impact Signifi- -/ √ negative/positive; x neutral cance/Risk waste Land degrada- Surface water management Groundwater Waste water Biodiversity Landscape Air quality Change Climate Noise Solid tion Potential permanent visual impact; Cumulative: low Shelter (coral) x - √ √ √ √ x x x x Improved livestock quality and limita- Potential impacts on groundwater through gathering of Positive: high tion of grazing areas livestock Negative: low Cumulative: low Agriculture Reduction of Bareland (aban- X - √ √ √ √ x x x x -Reduce erosion through enhance- Potential impacts on groundwater if fertilisers and pesti- Positive: high doned/refused): ment of soil cover; cides are used and potential consequent risk to human Negative: medium (see details in Annex) -Increased soil moisture retention health from contamination of water supplies; Cumulative: low leading to reduced runoff, erosion and flood risk; -Improved soil productivity and stabil- ity -Increased rotation will fight soil moisture and nutrients depletion and the build up of weeds, pests and diseases -Produce yield will be increased so as to reduce pressure on marginal lands Appropriate use of marginal agricul- x - √ √ √ √ x x x x -Reduce erosion through enhance- Potential impacts on groundwater if fertilisers and pesti- Positive: high tural land (private land on slope ment of soil cover; cides are used and potential consequent risk to human Negative: medium with shallow soils: -Increased soil moisture retention health from contamination of water supplies; Cumulative: low (see details in Annex) leading to reduced runoff, erosion and flood risk; -Improved soil productivity and stabil- ity Increased rotation will fight soil mois- ture and nutrients depletion and the build up of weeds, pests and diseas- es -Produce yield will be increased and will reduce pressure on marginal lands Trees on field boundaries x - √ √ √ √ x X x x Reduce erosion through enhance- Potential impacts on groundwater if fertilisers are used Positive: high (see details in Annex) ment of soil cover; and potential consequent risk to human health from con- Negative: low -Increased soil moisture retention tamination of water supplies. Cumulative: low 8 Project Component and Activity Area of Impact Potential Positive impacts Potential Negative impacts Cumulative Impact Signifi- -/ √ negative/positive; x neutral cance/Risk waste Land degrada- Surface water management Groundwater Waste water Biodiversity Landscape Air quality Change Climate Noise Solid tion leading to reduced runoff, erosion and flood risk. Small scale irrigation √ √ √ √ √ √ x X x x Increased crop production and diver- Potential risk of community water supply conflicts Positive: high (see details in Annex) sification, reduced pressure on mar- Negative: low ginal lands. Cumulative: low Planting of vineyards for revenue x - √ √ √ √ x X x x -Reduce erosion through enhance- Potential impacts on groundwater if fertilisers and pesti- Positive: high production have an extra positive ment of soil cover; cides are used and potential consequent risk to human Negative: medium effect of embellishment of the land- -Increased soil moisture retention health from contamination of water supplies. Cumulative: low scape leading to reduced runoff, erosion and flood risk; -Increased revenue from produce Rainfed horticulture x - √ √ √ √ x x x x -Reduce erosion through enhance- Potential impacts on groundwater if fertilisers and pesti- Positive: high fruits/vegetables/forages ment of soil cover; cides are used and potential consequent risk to human Negative: low -Increased soil moisture retention health from contamination of water supplies. Cumulative: low leading to reduced runoff, erosion and flood risk; -Increased revenue from produce Irrigated horticulture x - √ √ √ √ x x x x -Reduce erosion through enhance- Potential impacts on groundwater if fertilisers and pesti- Positive: high (fruits/vegetables/forages) ment of soil cover; cides are used and potential consequent risk to human Negative: low -Increased soil moisture retention health from contamination of water supplies. Cumulative: low leading to reduced runoff, erosion and flood risk; -Increased revenue from produce Beekeeping x x √ √ √ √ x x x x Enhance crop impollination and Minor visual impact. Positive: high quality; Negative: low Provide produce to increase commu- Cumulative: low nity revenue Artificial insemination for cattle to x x x √ √ √ - x x x Enhance livestock quality and reduce Potential solid/veterinary waste management issues Positive: high improve quality in order to reduce grazing pressure on pasture lands; Negative: low grazing pressure Cumulative: low Promotion of recreational and sus- - x - √ √ √ - - - - Provide potential revenues for the Commercial tourist activities may bring degradation to Positive: high tainable tourism through mainte- communities; habitat; Negative: medium nance and rehabilitation of moun- Provide access to natural resources Solid waste and waste water management issues; Cumulative: medium tain paths and traditional houses for for recreational purposes; Noise/dust issues related to construction works. accommodations of tourists and trekkers 9 Project Component and Activity Area of Impact Potential Positive impacts Potential Negative impacts Cumulative Impact Signifi- -/ √ negative/positive; x neutral cance/Risk waste Land degrada- Surface water management Groundwater Waste water Biodiversity Landscape Air quality Change Climate Noise Solid tion Primary processing of produce for - x - √ √ √ - - - - Provide potential revenues for the Commercial activities may bring degradation to habitat Positive: high sustainable production communities; through mishandling of solid waste and waste water man- Negative: medium agement and use of natural resources. Cumulative: medium Component B-Payment for environmental services (PES) B1:Development of appropriate x x x x x - - X x x Green procurement Potential issues of solid waste management/waste water; Positive: low mechanisms and enabling the envi- Negative: low ronment for PES Cumulative: low B2: Development of Carbon Se- questration projects Forest Protection: ban community x x x √ √ √ x x x x -Forest regeneration -potential increased pressure on other forest areas Positive: high access to forest -Reduction of soil erosion effects Negative: low -Increased soil moisture retention Cumulative: low - Improved quality, health and productivity of communal forests Reforestation x - √ √ √ √ - - - - Forest regeneration Potential impacts on groundwater through use of pesti- Positive: high (see details in Annex) -Reduction of soil erosion effects cides and fertilisers Negative: low -Increased soil moisture retention Cumulative: low -Improved quality, health and produc- tivity of communal forests B3: Development of payment for x x x x x - - x x x Green procurement Potential issues of solid waste management/waste water; Positive: low watershed services schemes Negative: low Cumulative: low Component C- Institutional and Implementation Support and Monitoring C1 Capacity building to stakehold- √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ Improve local capacities Potential issues of solid waste management/waste water ers Institutions C2 Strengthening good governance √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ Improve local capacities Potential issues of solid waste management/waste water C3 Empowering beneficiaries √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ Improve local capacities Potential issues of solid waste management/waste water; Positive: medium Negative: low Cumulative: medim C4 Project Management and Ad- x x x x x - - x x Green procurement Potential issues of solid waste management/waste water; Positive: low ministration Negative: low Cumulative: low 10 6. ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN WB OP4.01 foresees that an EMP be prepared in case of Category B projects. In the case of the ESP project, where the contents of project activities is un- known at its offset, but will be identified during implementation, it is foreseen that interventions proposed for grant financing undergo and environmental screening process which will identify both the potential adverse environmental impacts and whether an EMP will be necessary. ESP preparation also foresees the development of an EMF. The identification of all the potential adverse environmental impacts and definition of their miti- gation measures has been done by the EA and are described in Table 5 and the EMF Table in Annex 1. Based on the experience of NRDP, it is expected that only a restricted number of intervention typologies will be in need of an EMP. In case it is defined that an EMP should be prepared for a proposed interven- tion, its proposal should include both the screening module and the completed EMP which must then get approval from the PMT. A number of examples have been included for each of the foreseen interven- tions in the EMP modules that have been prepared and that are included in An- nex 5. These include the cases that have been seen in the Ulza and Baz / Suçi Communes. In addition, a sample EMP preparation exercise was organized in the Com- mune of Rubik and is included in Annex 6. 7. ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MANAGEMENT FRAMEWORK An Environmental Management Framework (EMF) has been developed for the ESP to be applied to the small grants program and for the project activities that are not known prior to project Appraisal. The EMF is an integral component of ESP implementation and must be made into an active tool during the plan- ning of interventions for which financing will be requested and preparation of application forms. It will then need to be used again during preparation of the Management Plans and its tools be included. Particular attention was given to the lessons learnt from the implementation of the NRDP EMF. These are the following: - Simplify screening checklists - Include Screening checklists in Guidelines for Management Plans - Include Environmental Expert in PMT - Include environmental expert support/training for application of EMF screening checklists - Include Pesticide Management Plan in EMSF - Include Fire prevention measures - Improve monitoring mechanisms of environmental mitigation implementa- tion 11 For this reason, involvement of the people who will be implementing the ESP EMF in future was sought in order to make the screening tools as user friendly as possible. The institutional responsibility framework and the different screening instru- ments are described in the following paragraphs. As Operational Policy 4.09 on pesticide management was triggered, an Inte- grated Pest Management Plan was also prepared as part of the EMF and is de- scribed in detail in a separate Section. 7.1 Environmental and Social Screening Process All intervention applications under ESP must be screened for potential envi- ronmental and social impacts by the PMT. In order to facilitate and make this process possible, a number of tools and procedures have been prepared. These are under the Section Environmental Management Framework and include the following: - A list of all foreseen interventions and of their potential social and envi- ronmental impacts - An Environmental and Social Checklist Questionnaire to be applied to all the grants scheme - An Environmental Field Appraisal Form to be applied in the case the re- sults of the application of the Screening Questionnaire indicate that a more in depth assessment of the proposed intervention is needed - An Environmental Management Plan form (Examples are presented in An- nex 5 of EMF) to be prepared in case the Screening Questionnaire or the Field Appraisal Form indicate that an EMP is needed, and - An Annual Environmental Audit form to guide annual environmental and social assessment of all financed interventions All tools indicate the parties/stakeholders responsible for preparation. 7.1.1 Outline of the Screening Process The communities will develop their management plans (new communes) and grant applications. At this stage, the team working on the development of the plan should be referring to the EMF activities tables and be using it as a guide for a correct environmental and social design of the MC plan and/or activity. Early effective environmental and social screening of the foreseen interven- tions will drive the environmental analysis process in helping to plan the Avoidance, Prevention and Minimisation of adverse effects sometimes just by avoiding certain works and /or site locations. The following Figure outlines the screening process. 12 Figure 1: Process of environmental screening for management plan devel- opment and grant applications (investment plans) 7.1.2 Institutional Framework for the EMF of the ESP Directorate of Forest and Pastures has the overall responsibility for EMF. A Project Steering Committee should be created including all relevant institu- tional stakeholders, while operative functions related to the EMF should be Di- rectorate of Forests and Pastures which should include an environmental ex- pert. An annual Environmental Performance Audit will be carried out by an inde- pendent Consultant with the collaboration of the Regional Environmental Agencies and under the supervision of the Ministry of the Environment. 7.2 Annual Environmental Performance Audit The EMF foresees that an annual environmental performance audit will be conducted by an independent organization, in order to assess overall compli- ance with EMF procedures and ensure that environmental management and the implementation of mitigation measures are part of the ESP implementation. It should also identify potential criticalities in order to fine tune future EMF per- formance. The annual audit should include the following tasks: - Review of the paper trail of screening checklists and reports and check its significance with respect to the implemented activities; 13 - On the basis of this review, select a number of sub-projects for field visits to investigate compliance with proposed mitigation measures, and identifi- cation of potential impacts that are not being adequately dealt with; - Recommend practical improvements to the EMF screening checklists in order to fine-tune the operation of the EMF based on practical experience; - Discuss ESP activities in with the PMT, Regional Coordinators and select- ed FPUAs representatives - Assess the needs for further training and capacity building and make rec- ommendations. An Annual Audit report should include the following: - A review of the sub-projects (i) screened for environmental impacts, (ii) pro- vided with technical advice from Regional Coordinators, (iii) further assessed, (iv) implemented with an EMP, - Description of the actual operation of the EMF as it has occurred in practice - Identification of environmental risks that are not being fully addressed or miti- gated, - Identification of potential cumulative environmental impacts; 14 Environmental Assessment Report 1 1. INTRODUCTION The Government of Albania (GoA) has applied for financial assistance (US$ 22.88) from the World Bank and other Donors (Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency-SIDA, Global Environmental Facility – GEF, other WB Trust Funds) for the preparation and implementation of an Environmental Service Project (ESP) whose main objective is to implement the existing Communal Forestry and Pasture Management Plans (CFPMP) and Communal Microcatchment (CMCPs) supported under the National Re- sources Development Project (NRDP) which was finalized in 2011 and ex- tend the process of participatory micro-catchment management planning and implementations to all communes in Albanian. This document describes the results of the Environmental Assessment (EA) carried out for the preparation of the ESP and includes the Environmental Social Management Framework (EMF) developed for its implementation. 1.1 Scope of Work The project has been classified by WB as an environment category B. It therefore needs to undergo an Environmental Assessment (EA) whose main objective is the identification and assessment of the potential negative envi- ronmental impacts of the proposed project activities so as to either prevent them or minimize them through adequate mitigation measures. Given the specific characteristics of the ESP, in which activities to be fi- nanced through its Component 1 are only foreseen at this present stage and will only be confirmed during project implementation, WB procedures foresee that an Environmental Management Framework (EMF) is developed so as to allow adequate screening of the activities proposed for financing. In case screening through application of the EMF indicates that potential negative environmental impacts are possible, the Framework gives indica- tions for the preparation of specific Environmental Management Plans (EMPs). 1.2 Environmental and Social Management Framework The preparation of an Environmental Management Framework (EMF) is part of the requirements of the ESP project preparation efforts. The objective of the EMF is to set up a process, based on the foreseen activ- ities that will potentially be implemented during the years of project devel- opment and their potential environmental impacts in order to provide rec- ommendations for the mitigation measures that will need to be put into place in order to minimize the negative impacts. The EMF provides for processes, tools and framework of institutional re- sponsibilities to enable project personnel to carry out the necessary screen- ing and assessments, to the small grants program and for the project activi- ties that are not known prior to project Appraisal, in order to adequately 2 plan for the environmental management of the ESP activities. Details on the methodology of EMF application and it specific tools are given in the dedi- cated Chapter 9. The EMF for ESP has been prepared on the basis of the WB 2008 EMF toolkit. Particular attention has been given to the lessons learnt from the EMF application to NRDP activities in order to simplify the specific tools as much as possible and make them easier to use and to understand by the Commune and FPUAs staff. In addition, an effort has been made to identify the capacity training needs of the local associations and institutions so as to make a more efficient ap- plication of the EMF possible. As the overall project is Category B, the EMF includes provisions for ex- cluding Category A projects from financing and also includes measures for pest-management related environmental risks. 1.3 Stakeholder and Public Consultation Process World Bank Operational Policies foresee that the EA of a category B project undergo a Public Consultation Process. Albanian Law requires public con- sultation only in the case of projects for which a full EIA is required. A first Public Consultation Workshop was organized in Tirana on the 31st of the July to present the following: a) Foreseen ESP Project activities; b) Foreseen EMF institutional structure; c) Foreseen EMF capacity building targets; d) Environmental Assessment objectives and contents; e) Social Assessment Contents and Methodology. Emphasis was made on the importance to have the audience contributions to be able to fine tune the instruments used in NRDP implementation in order to make the whole process more effective. Participants were stakeholders identified by the PMT and the Consultant team. The complete list of the participants in provided in PIM Annex H. Minutes of the workshop are also provided in PIM Annex H. Stakeholder Consultation was also carried out during the different field trips carried out while preparing the EA and the EMF. Annex 1 contains the list of the stakeholders who were consulted in these occasions. A second Public Consultation Workshop was held on the 26th of Septem- ber. The list of Participants and the Minutes of the Meeting are presented in Annex to this report. In addition, documentation relevant to the ESP project contents and its En- vironmental Assessment was made available on the web, in Associations of Communes and National Federation of FPUAs offices, so that the interested 3 public could consult it. Information about the availability of the documenta- tion was published on the xxx newspapers (??) on xxx date. Full documents will be disclosed in the final and last public consultation in October/November. The list of Participants and the Minutes of the Meeting are presented annex to this report. 1.4 Layout of this report The remainder of this EA report is structured as follows:  Chapter2 – Project description  Chapter 3 – Regulatory Framework Review  Chapter 4 – Project Context Review  Chapter 5 – Analysis of Potential environmental impacts and mitigation measures  Chapter 6 – Analysis of Alternatives  Chapter 7- Environmental Management Plan Annex 1 List of stakeholders interviewed during field visits Annex 2 Annex I and II of the EIA Law Annex 3 Details of main EU Directives relevant to ESP Annex 4 Details of activities of Environmental Impacts Evaluation Table In separate Sections  Environmental Management Framework  Integrated Pesticide Management Plan 2. PROJECT DESCRIPTION The Environment Services Project (ESP) aims to maintain and implement the existing Communal Forestry and Pasture Management Plans (CFPMPs) and Communal Micro-catchment Plans (CMCPs) supported under the closed Natural Resources Development Project (NRDP) and extend the pro- cess to communes without plans. The participatory micro-catchment man- agement planning and implementation will also be maintained and scaled up to include more communes and extend the activities undertaken. Invest- ments will be implemented through competitive grants which, through the application process and extension advice, will support improved financial and business planning capacity. At the same time the implementation of the CFPMPs and CMCPs will help address climate resilience issues through in- creasing the absorptive capacity of the landscape, reducing erosion and bet- ter management of water, forest and pasture resources. Global benefits and climate mitigation will be enhanced through continued and increased se- questration of carbon in both the CDM registered plots but also in the im- proved management of the forest resources and in terms of reduced erosion and improved habitats for biodiversity. Through reduced erosion and land degradation, the productivity of the land will be enhanced, and the life span 4 of downstream water infrastructure will be increased and the ongoing maintenance costs reduced. Institutional capacity to support the local com- munes, user associations, ARDA and to undertake monitoring and reporting will be built. Review of the NRDP implementation identified the following key lessons1: 1. Flexible design and adaptation to local conditions is critical to the success of the participatory approach. Community participatory processes, including communal natural resource management are highly site specific activities that need to be developed in a localized contextual setting. Design of such projects should be flexible and accommodate underlying factors such as landscape, climate, tradition, wealth, communal social capital, and absorption capacity. 2. Local stakeholder involvement remains a key determinant for success. Local stakeholder involvement was necessary for receiving feedback on local site conditions and other commune-specific issues. Raising awareness, communication and confidence building measures are required for local buy-in, and must be a staple of any community based projects. 3. Monitoring and Evaluation systems should be simple and focused. Natural resource management projects are difficult to monitor and, to be effective any system needs to be as simple and easily used by non-IT specialists as possible; 4. GIS mapping for management plans is essential. Standardized digital mapping is essential for the preparation of resource management plans. This is doubly important in Albania, where the land registra- tion office requires detailed maps for the registration process; and, 5. Clarity of user rights is a pre-requisite for sustainability. 2.1 Project Objectives The Project Development Objective (PDO) is: To support sustainable land management practices with the aim of reducing human-induced land degradation, and increasing communities’ income, in targeted project areas which are mainly in erosion prone rural areas. The main objective of the project will be the enhancement sustainable land management practices (50% of the PDO), followed by the reduction of land degradation (30% of the PDO) and increasing target community income (20%). The previous natural resources projects in Albania started processes aiming ultimately at sustainable land management practices. These processes need to be continued to keep the momentum on, and to enable the participants in sustainable management to adjust to the ever changing overall environment 1 Project Concept Document, May 2013 5 (markets, economic, political, integration). In particular, the proposed pro- ject will further consolidate the achievements so far. The project will continue to support the implementation of forest and pas- ture management by forest the forest and pasture users in Albania through providing services and opportunities for the users of the resource, their as- sociations and Local Government Units (LGUs) to further build their capac- ities and get better control of forest and pastures already transferred to them as result of the government policy for the decentralization of the forest and pasture management. The implementation of improved and more sustainable land management practices will enhance the management of forests, pasture and water re- sources and will in-crease the absorptive capacity of the landscape and help revert soil degradation and reduce erosion. Through reduced land degradation and erosion, the Project activities will improve the productivity of the land as well as provide alternative uses for abandoned lands. The quality and quantity of water for whatever use will be secured and the life span of downstream water infrastructure will be in- creased and the ongoing maintenance costs reduced. The project will introduce and support the establishment of payment for en- vironmental services scheme in Albania. It will support the development of necessary activities to create an enabling environment for the scheme to be successful. The aim is to provide for a better sharing of benefits from envi- ronmental services and provide alternative financing mechanisms for im- proved land administration and sustainable use of natural resources. The grant financing support to rural farmers, their associations and local communities will provide more income generation opportunities and sup- port government efforts for poverty alleviation in rural areas. The competitive manner of this support scheme will encourage local com- munities, LGU and farmers to raise their capacities in terms of sustainable environmental and financial management. Through its capacity building component it will pave the way for future support of the forest and pasture sector by the future EU rural development and agri-environment financing mechanisms that will be provided under Instrument for Pre-Accession As- sistance (IPA II). IPA II is expected to be in force January 2014 (COM(2011) 838 Proposal for a Regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council on the Instrument for Pre-accession Assistance). The IPARD II (the financing instrument of IPA II) is expected to include measures for forest improvement. The project will build on the experience gained and lessons learned during the successful implementation of earlier projects (Albania Forestry Project and the NRDP). Through capacity building and institutional support activi- ties the project will enhance the sustainability of the important results achieved from those projects. 6 The implementation of the national forest inventory and forest management information system will improve knowledge on forest resources extension and productivity in the country and assist policy development and planning. It will also facilitate monitoring and regular reporting to international bodies (EU/FAO/UN). 2.2 Description of Project Components1 Component A - IPARD Like Agri-Environmental Measures The Project will provide under Component A services to farmers and their associations and representative groups to help themselves to adopt sustaina- ble land management practices. The project will provide grants for rural de- velopment measures that promote environmentally sustainable farm- ing/forestry practices, biodiversity conservation, the preservation and devel- opment of 'natural' farming and forestry systems, and traditional agricultural landscapes. The grants are targeted to activities de-fined in the existing CFPMPs and CMCPs and the new integrated micro-catchment plans to be prepared under the Project. Most of the forests transferred to communes’ ownership were highly degraded and because the forest will take many years to mature, it will be some time before there are significant returns to the Forest and Pasture Users ‘Associations (FPUAs) from wood products. Further investments are required to continue plan implementation and to se- cure ongoing communal support. Although the communes supported by the NRDP now understand the principles of sustainable forest management they lack resources to continue implementation. The Project will provide appropriate, research based information and guide- lines, and training on resource management disseminated through perma- nent local government structures and awareness campaigns to the FPUAs and farmers. Updating and preparation of the practical guidelines is an ac- tivity under Component C. This component arranges the dissemination. The Project will provide assistance in preparation and implementation of management plans. This includes updating management plans which expire during the Project period, methods for upgrading forest management plans to micro-catchment management plans including improvement of the micro- catchment management planning guidelines and process, application of the ministry Annual Operation Planning guidelines and the monitoring of im- plementation. The Project will work on improved value chain services by undertaking a study and preparation of a short term and medium term forest products pro- cessing and marketing plan. The study will be an input to a road-map to fu- ture financing opportunities. Whilst under Component C the overall legal and administrative measures are sup-ported regarding the land registration and ownership, Component A will define sup-porting measures at the local level to increase land security 1 Integrated Safeguards Datasheet Concept Stage 7 and equal opportunities for all to participate in sustainable management and use of land. This will include identification and regulating user rights – eve- ry man’s rights – as a part of FPUAs constitution. The Project will provide training to FPUAs and LGUs under this component including the grant scheme, environmental management, planning, imple- mentation, application of forestry and pasture guidelines, monitoring and reporting, forest law enforcement and fire prevention. The project will pre- pare and maintain a calendar of training events and publish the calendar in an appropriate way. Training will be offered to communes and associations on equal basis but based on applications. Calls for training will appear in the information. The project applies a principle of interest in training. Component B - Payment for Environmental Services (PES) Land degradation has been identified as a major natural resource manage- ment issue in Albania. Unsustainable management and use, such as over grazing, fires, and over harvesting and extensive firewood collection are causing anthropogenic pressure linked to degradation, erosion, and flooding in Albanian landscapes. The decentralization reform has transferred more than two thirds of forest and pasture to communes, and has created an op- portunity to improve natural resource management through supporting the local level stakeholders. Stronger local tenure creates incentive for sustaina- bly manage and protect the natural resources but support for the manage- ment activities and remuneration from the produced environmental benefits are needed. The aim of this component is to develop mechanisms that allow sustainable financing of natural resource management beyond the ESP horizon. The component supports the development and implementation of two types of mechanisms for sustainable financing, i) Carbon sequestration (B.1) and ii) Payment for watershed services (B.2). Many ecosystem services are typically public goods and do not remunerate those who generate them. This can lead to a situation where the supply and consumption of the services are not at an optimal level and resource base is being degraded. Payment for Ecosystem Services (PES) mechanisms pro- vide incentive system to increase the supply of ecosystem services so that those providing ecosystem services are compensated or rewarded, and those who use the services pay for the benefits derived from the services. In con- text of the ESP, both sub-components, B.1 and B.2, enable in-vestment and remuneration for management activities that otherwise would be un- compensated for and, hence, undersupplied. Component 2 directly supports and delivers on the ESP development objec- tives. Both sub-components (B.1, B.2) implement activities and establish fi- nancing mechanisms to reduce human-induced land degradation and support sustainable livelihoods through provision of and compensation for ecosys- tem services. 8 To establish PES mechanisms the basic operational environment related to tenure, the potential services and markets stakeholders, policies and legisla- tion, and governance need to be in place. In the Albanian legal framework PES is neither explicitly permitted nor prohibited by law. Land and resource tenure enabling application of PES mechanisms is clear, however, rights to economic benefit from ES should be clarified. The ecosystem services and their supply and demand can be identified and pre-existing work and exam- ple on this regard (e.g. “Study and Analysis of Innovative Financing for Sustainable Forest Management in the Southwest Balkan”, and CDM pro- ject “Assisted Natural Regeneration of Degraded Lands in Albania”) is available and will significantly benefit the ESP Component 2. Basic stake- holder awareness is in place due to previous projects but further awareness raising activities are needed. Required basic level of governance in terms of access to information, transparency, public participation, accountability and rule of law is in place but the project will further develop the governance re- lated capacities to secure operational PES mechanisms. Component C - Institutional and Implementation Support and Monitoring Component C combines all activities and tasks that are required to imple- ment the second part of the Project strategy – “enabling environment”. The Project will implement a number of tasks which are grouped to sub- components Capacity building to stakeholder institutions, Strengthening good governance, and Empowering beneficiaries. If Albania becomes an EU candidate country, the Project activities need to be carefully coordinated with EU activities. The EU action will be based on a certain need assess- ment for each sector. It is expected that support for acquis compliance will remain available through project support or other implementation modalities such as dedicated facilities. Forestry is under environment in the EU en- largement. Quote: “EU environment policy aims to promote sustainable de- velopment and protect the environment for present and future generations. It is based on preventive action, the polluter pays principle, fighting envi- ronmental damage at source, shared responsibility and the integration of environmental protection into other EU policies. The acquis comprises over 200 major legal acts covering horizontal legislation, water and air quality, waste management, nature protection, industrial pollution control and risk management, chemicals and genetically modified organisms (GMOs), noise and forestry. Compliance with the acquis requires significant investment. A strong and well-equipped administration at national and local level is im- perative for the application and enforcement of the environment acquis.” Unquote. The Project interventions will contribute to the streamlining the legislative framework, and building national and local administration in forestry sector. The Project will apply a set of various means to implement the activities in- cluding supporting government working groups, consultancies, study tours, training and on-the-job training. The Project supports the working groups in the following activities: - NFI planning, design and implementation - AlFIS planning, design and implementation 9 - Strengthening technical bodies - Establishment of support systems for post project financing opportu- nities - Supporting institutional change process, - Improvement of legal and admin framework incl. supporting clarifi- cation of remaining issues regarding user rights and forest/pasture land registration; updating existing guidelines (forestry, environ- ment) - Gender Action Plan and implementation - Setting up prototype Local Action Groups (LAGs) The composition of the working groups will be decided during the imple- mentation. However, the working groups should include wide expertise, knowledge of EU instruments, include all relevant sectors, and have man- date to decide. Some of the working groups will have a role in preparing for decisions by the Council of Ministers. The project will provide a total of c. 30’000 training days under Component C. The following table outlines the foreseen activities under each component, suggest who should take the responsibility for them, and indicates expected outputs. Table 2: Project Components and Activities Component/Activity Responsibility Outputs Component A - IPARD Like Agri- Environmental Measures Investment grants of A.1: Provision of competitive grants for rural de- ARDA 3,5 mill EUR distribut- velopment measures ed 251 management A.2:Implementation Communal Forestry and Pas- FPUAs plans implemented ture Management Plans (CFPMPs) sustainably 75 new micro- catchment plans pre- A.3:Implementation and preparation of Communal FPUAs pared; 30 manage- Micro-catchment Plans (CMCPs) ment plans imple- mented sustainably Component B - Payment for Environmental Services (PES) B.1: Development of carbon sequestration pro- x ton eCO2 seques- Forest Sector jects tered Payment for environ- B.2: Development of payment for watershed ser- Forest Sector mental services intro- vices schemes duced Component C - Institutional and Implementa- tion Support and Monitoring Forest resource C.1: Capacity building to stakeholder institutions Forest sector known and monitored Legal and institutional C.2: Strengthening good governance Forest sector framework Women and vulnera- C.3: Empowering beneficiaries Forest sector ble groups participate increasingly Results based moni- C.4: Monitoring and Evaluation Forest sector toring in place 10 2.3 Potential Environmental Impacts The project has been classified as an environment category B and triggers the safeguard policy on Environmental Assessment (OP/BP 4.01) as no ma- jor adverse and irreversible environmental impacts are anticipated under the proposed project. Additional safeguards triggered by the project have been indicated as the following by the Concept Stage Integrated Safeguard Data Sheet: a) Natural Habitats (OP/BP 4.04) b) Forests (OP/BP 4.36) c) Pest Management (OP/BP 4.09) d) A decision was yet to be taken in relation to the international Waterways safeguard (OP/BP 7.50). Under component 1, all sub-projects financed through the provision of grants will be screened to ensure they will not cause adverse environmental impacts. Grant applications will have a section on the potential environmen- tal impacts of the sub-projects and an environmental management plan con- taining the proposed mitigation measures if grant activities are likely to have potential negative impacts. Specific mitigation measures will be foreseen to minimize impact on Natural Habitats and a specific Integrated Pest Man- agement Plan will be part of the EMF. A number of the foreseen activities under Component 2 will be similar to the forest processes or agriculture activities of Components 1. In this case they will also be screened for potential adverse environmental impacts. Component 3 foresees activities related to institutional capacity building, so minimal adverse environmental impacts is expected from them. A measure related to green procurement will nevertheless be included in the project manual as to ensure that projects supplies will be environmental sustainable as much as possible. An in depth study of the foreseen social impacts of ESP has been conducted separately and is presented in Annex G of the Project Implementation Man- ual. 3. ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL REGULATORY FRAMEWORK This section presents the regulatory framework for the ESP project. It is made up of applicable WB Safeguards Policies and relevant environmental Albanian Legislation. Given Albania’s effort towards harmonisation with the European environmental aquis, key European Directives regulating envi- ronmental issues are also briefly introduced. 3.1 WB Safeguards Policies This section outlines the Safeguard Policies that are relevant to the ESP pro- ject, briefly describe their contents and indicates whether they are triggered 11 by project contents. Table 3 at the end of the Section summarizes them for a quick reference. 3.1.1 OP 4.01 Environmental Assessment OP 4.01 has been triggered as WB policies require that all projects proposed for Bank financing undergo an environmental screening to ensure they are adequately classified and that their potential environmental impacts are cor- rectly assessed. The ESP project has been classified as a B category project and therefore will need to undergo a “partial environmental assessment”. As explained in the OP, a proposed project is classified as Category B if its potential adverse environmental impacts on human populations or environ- mentally important areas--including wetlands, forests, grasslands, and other natural habitats, “are less adverse than those of a category A”. These im- pacts are in any case not irreversible and mitigation measures can easily be designed for them. As demonstrated by the implementation of the NRDP, most of the activities which will also be object of ESP component 1 financ- ing have marginal, if any, negative impacts on the environment. A Category B classification of the project is therefore considered more than suitable as it is precautionary. Given the characteristics of the ESP, including the fact that it will identify and develop subprojects in the course of its implementation, WB policies foresee that its EA process must include the preparation of an Environmen- tal and Social Management Framework, an Environmental Management Plan and undergo public consultation. The EMF will contain a provision to screen for Category A which cannot be financed under the ESP. 3.1.2 OP 4.04 Natural Habitats OP 4.04 is triggered since the targets of the ESP project activities are for- ests, pastures and water sheds that may include locations in protected areas. The project is nevertheless consistent with it since its aim is to support sus- tainable management of these habitats through a community participatory process which should contribute to the improvement and optimisation of current forest and pasture management practices. Potential negative impacts will be screened through the EMF which should also ensure that appropriate mitigation measures are adopted in sub- projects which are chosen for fi- nancing. Biodiversity issues, which are implicitly not included in OP 4.02, will also be taken into consideration. 3.1.3 OP 4.09 Pest Management OP 4.09 is triggered as planting of fruit trees and vineyards have been in- cluded in the erosion control measures. Although cost motivation limit the local usage of pesticides and fertilizers, screening for pesticides and provi- sions for integrated pest management control is included in the EMF which 12 will outline when a specific pest management plan will be required and in- clude a specific Integrated Pesticide Management Plan IPMP which will be annexed to the EMF. 3.1.4 OP 4.11 Physical Cultural Resources Project activities are not foreseen to be undertaken in areas of cultural rele- vance, nor is any substantial excavation work foreseen. In any case, provi- sion for screening of cultural heritage sites will be made in the EMF. 3.1.5 OP 4.12 Involuntary Resettlement No resettlement is foreseen as a consequence of project activities which support the decentralization of forests and pastures from central to local governments through the development and implementation of participatory management plans which involve local communities and traditional users of pastures and forest. No private land will be taken away, but rather the effort to formalise the transfer from state to commune property of forests will be supported. 3.1.6 OP 4.20 Indigenous People The project does not impact indigenous people groups. Nevertheless the preparatory process includes an extensive social assessment effort to help ensure that the project is socially inclusive, properly targeted and cognizant of social risks including social safeguards. 3.1.7 OP 4.36 Forestry OP 4.3 is triggered since forests are the main target of the ESP activities. Activities carried out in the NRDP which will be extended by the ESP in- clude the following: afforestation, remedial forest operations (cleaning, re- spacing, silvicultural thinning and enrichment planting. Potential environ- mental impacts will be screened thorough the EMF and mitigations put into place when deemed necessary. 3.1.8 OP 4.37 Safety of Dams OP 4.37 is applied if project activities foresee construction or rehabilitation of dams of more than 15m height. The NRDP did not target any project site involving dams nor is this expected of the ESP. In case any subactivites in microcatchment areas involve retention structures qualified professionals will need to be involved. 3.1.9 OP 7.50 Projects in International Waters Two international rivers flow through Albania. They are the Vjose and the Drini. International lakes include the Ohrid and Skadar. OP 7.50 was not triggered in the NRDP since activities only involved small-scale rehabilita- tion and improvement of existing schemes, such as repairs to canal lining, re-sectioning, replacement of non-functioning gates and pumps etc. As most rivers or their tributaries in Albania have international relevance, in the case new irrigation schemes are financed, provisions be made in the 13 EMF for application of the safeguard. All activities on international water- ways or tributaries to such water ways, that may cause changes in the quali- ty or quantity of the water supplied to the riparian states, shall not be fi- nanced. 3.1.10 OP 7.60 Projects in Disputed Areas No project activities are foreseen to take place in disputed areas. The following summarizes the WB Operation Procedures that have been considered and their applicability. Table 3: Summary of WB Operational Procedures applicable to ESP Operational Policy Applicability OP 4.01 Environmental Assessment Yes OP 4.04 Natural Habitats Yes OP 4.09 Pest Management Yes OP 4.11 Physical Cultural Resources No OP 4.12 Involuntary Replacement No OP 4.20 Indigenous People No OP 4.36 Forestry Yes OP 4.37 Safety of Dams No OP 7.50 Projects in International Wa- No/Yes: to be deter- ters mined at this stage OP 7.60 Projects in Disputed Areas No 3.2 Albanian Environmental Policy and International Commitments The following paragraphs summarize the strategic national documents which drive the efforts made by the Albanian Government in the develop- ment of environmental legislation in compliance with the EU environmental acquis. 3.2.1 Key National Environmental Policies In June 2006 Albania signed the Stabilization and Association Agreement with the European Union which entered into force on April 1st 2009. This Agreement requires that Albania accomplishes a number of obligations, among which the overall approximation of the Albanian legislation within the European legislation. As a consequence, the Government of Albania has prepared and is implementing the National Plan for the Implementation of the Stabilization and Association Agreement as the main monitoring instru- ment of its political, economic, legal and institutional reforms which is con- sidered an integral part of the National Strategy for Development and Inte- gration 2007-2013, adopted by the Council of Ministers in March 2008. According to this Strategy “…Enforcement of environmental legislation by strengthening of the Regional Environment Agencies and inspectorates, im- provements in the permitting system” is among the strategic goals and “…Areas to be targeted are mineral resources, protected zones, soil, flora and fauna protection, water resources and water rights (notably a planning 14 system and the strengthening of river basin authorities) …” is among the strategic priorities of Albania. It also provides the basis for the strategic planning in the field of water and sanitation and water resources manage- ment and protection . 3.2.2 National Environmental Action Plan A first National Environmental Action Plan was prepared in 1994 and then updated in 2002. The priorities identified by the new NEAP focused on in- stitutional and legal framework reforms identifying the following ten priori- ties: - Improving cooperation among Ministries, departments and local authori- ties; - Developing suitable environmental policies; - Promoting the sustainable use of natural resources; - Improving the country’s environmental inspection structure; - Establishing an information system; - Improving environmental information available to NGOs and the public; - Developing an adequate strategy with business on the environmental is- sues; - Strengthening the environmental impact assessment system; - Completing the country’s environmental legal framework; and - Drafting local environmental action plans (LEAPs). Among the objectives was the creation of conditions for future membership of the European Union (EU), confirmed from the 1994 edition, and the need to integrate environment into other sectors such as the development of a strategy and action plan for the development of sustainable and integrated rural strategy, a strategy for sustainable tourism, and a strategy and action plan for land protection against erosion. The following LEAPs have been prepared: “Tirana Municipality: 1994, 2001; Fier Municipality: 1998 – 1999; Dibra Region: 1998 – 1999; Pogradec Municipality: 2000-2001; Lezha Municipality: 2002; Shengjin and Velipoje Municipality 2006 as well as the REAP; 17 Communes in Korça Region (REC Albania, 2012). 3.2.3 National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan1 In 1999, the Council of Ministers approved the National Biodiversity Strat- egy and Action Plan (NBSAP), whose main objective was to fulfill the re- quirements of the Convention on Biological Diversity which Albania signed in 1994 and the indications of the Pan-European Strategy on Biological and Landscape Diversity. The strategy identified national priorities and neces- sary actions for the implementation of the Convention. The NBSAP remains the main policy document on nature and biodiversity protection, covering the period 2000-2015. Many of its recommendations have been implemented, notably the increase in protected areas coverage and modernization of the legal framework. However, implementation needs 1 UNECE EPR2012 15 considerable improvement. Illegal logging and hunting and unauthorized construction in nature reserves remain significant concerns. An effective monitoring and information system has yet to be developed. In line with the CBD’s Strategic Plan for Biodiversity for the period 2011-2020, Albania in- tends to revise and update the NBSAP. Future plans for fulfilling the Convention’s obligations, as identified by the country’s last national report to CBD, include: (i) increasing protected areas coverage to 17 per cent in 2013, (ii) developing and implementing manage- ment plans for protected areas and action plans for globally threatened and endemic species, (iii) implementing new legal provisions concerning biodi- versity monitoring, (iv) implementing the Emerald networkof the Areas of Special Conservation Interest (ASCIs) in preparation for Natura 2000. These are going to be challenging tasks given the considerable amount of financing required. 3.2.4 National Strategy for Socio Economic Development A “National Strategy for Socio-Economic Development” was prepared in 2001 and included a chapter entitled “Environment, Growth and Poverty Reduction” which set out long and medium-term objectives for the envi- ronment. It again indicates Albania’s long term objective to achieve gradu- ally appropriate environmental standards in compliance with the association process with the EU. In November 2007 the new Inter-sectorial Rural De- velopment Strategy of Albania (ISRDSA) was published to as the rural de- velopment plan for the country over the period 2007-2013 setting priorities in compliance with the EU directives on rural development policy. 3.2.5 Sector Strategy for Agriculture and Food1 The 2007 Sector Strategy of Agriculture and Food (SSAF) for the period 2007-2013 was prepared for the sector that can be considered one of the most important of the Albanian economy. Although, the sector’s contribu- tion to GDP has been decreasing over recent years, agriculture remains the main work option for people living in rural areas (50 per cent of the total population). Some of the priorities identified in the SSAF are closely related to the ac- tivities targeted by the ESP. These include the following: - Improve the management of irrigation and drainage systems – as wa- ter is the main input for increasing agricultural production; - Further develop the marketing of agricultural and agroprocessing products , in order to ensure investments for environment-friendly technology; - Increase the level and quality of technologies, information, and knowledge of farmers and agroprocessors, using these tools for dis- semination of environment-friendly production and processing methods. 1 UNECE EPR 2012 16 Other important documents in support of Albanian environmental policy are the following: - National Environmental Strategy (2006-2020) - National Waste Management Strategy (2010-2025) - National Strategy of Water Supply and Sewerage Services Sector (2011- 2017) - National Action Plan for the Management of Noise (2011) - National Strategy for Tourism (2008) - Sector Strategy for Transport (2008-2013) - Strategy for the Development of the Forestry and Pastures Sector in Al- bania (2003) - National Water Strategy (1997, updated in 2004 and presently under re- vision. An initial Integrated Water Resources Management (IWRM) Position Paper, was completed in 2011. - National Strategy of Energy and Action Plan (2003, updated in 2005) - Strategy and Action Plan for Protection of Land from Erosion (2005, on- ly draft) - Aarhus Convention Implementation Strategy (2005) - Strategy and Action Plan for the Development of Tourism Sector Based on Cultural and Environmental Tourism (2005) - Strategy for Hazardous Wastes (2006) - National Strategy of Fishing and Aquaculture (2007, only draft) - Strategic Action Plan for Sustainable Development of the Prespa Park (2002, updated in 2010) - Strategy and action plan for the Solid Waste (2010) 3.2.6 Key International Conventions Albania has ratified the following main international environmental Con- ventions: - On May 30, 1990, Albania participated by accession to the Barcelona Convention "For the Protection of the Mediterranean Sea against Pollu- tion" (Barcelona, February 16, 1976). Protocol Concerning Mediterrane- an Specially Protected Areas (1982) and the Protocol for the Protection of Biodiversity in the Mediterranean Sea (1996). 6 protocols are ratified by Albania until now. - On October 4 1991, Albania ratified the ESPOO Convention (Finland) "On Environmental Impact Assessment in a Transboundary Context." - On March 18, 1992 Albania signed the convention "On the Protection and Use of Transboundary Watercourses and International Lakes" (Hel- sinki March 17, 1992). The ratification of the convention was done on January 5, 1994. - On October 3, 1994 Albania signed the basic text of the Convention on Climate Change (New York, May 9, 1992). The Council of Ministers approved the accession of Albania to this convention by the decree no. 580 on June 29, 1993. The Kyoto Protocol on UNFCCC was ratified 2004. - The Convention on Biological Diversity was signed on January 5, 1994 and it entered into force on April 5, 1994. In 2004 Albania become party to the Protocol on Biosafety (Cartagena Protocol) of the Convention on 17 Biological Diversity. Also recently this year (2013) Albania Parliament ratified the Nagoya Protocol on Access to Genetic Resources and the Fair and Equitable Sharing of Benefits Arising from their Utilization. - On November 29, 1995 Albania participated by accession to the Ramsar Convention (Ramsar, 1971) or the "Convention on Wetlands of Interna- tional Importance especially as Waterfowl Habitat”. - On October 31, 1995 Albania signed the Bern Convention (September 19, 1979) "For the Protection of Flora and Wildlife Fauna of the Natural Environment in Europe," which was ratified by the Parliament on March 2, 1998. - Convention on preservation of wildlife and natural European habitats (The Bern Convention) was ratified in 1998. - The Convention on Combat Desertification (December 4, 1996), Alba- nia accesses to the convention in December 1999. - The Convention on Access to Information, Public Participation in Deci- sion-Making and Access to Justice in Environmental Matters (Aarhus- Denmark, June 25, 1998), Albania was among the 35 countries, which signed this convention and ratified it in 2000 - The Convention on Protection of Migratory Species of Wildlife known also as the Bonn Convention (Bonn, on June 23, 1979). Albania has ac- cess by the Parliament decision in November 2000. - The Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (Washington, D.C., on 3 March 1973, amended at Bonn, on 22 June 1979). Albania access to this convention by Parlia- ment decision in March 2002. - The Convention on Protection of Ozone Layer was ratified on the year 2000. 3.3 National Environmental and Forestry Regulatory Framework The following paragraphs are a summary of the Albanian regulatory frame- work in the environmental and forestry sectors. 3.3.1 Background 1 The Albanian legal system is based on the following hierarchy: Constitu- tion, primary legislation (laws) and supporting normative acts, such as by- laws, government decisions, decrees, ministerial orders, regulations, instruc- tions and standards. The Constitution, approved in 1998, calls upon the Al- banian authorities to preserve a healthy environment, ecologically suitable for present and future generations, and includes sustainable development principles, as well as “the right of the public to have access to information on the state of the environment. Although the first basic law on the environment was approved in 1967, the development of a modern environmental legal system based on democratic principles began only in 1991. Most laws are drafted by the technical direc- torates of the Ministry of Environment in close cooperation with the Direc- torate for Environmental Legislation and Foreign Relations. 1 UNECE EPR2012 18 Albania’s environmental laws are implemented through by-laws, regulations and decisions. A great effort is being made to revise Albanian legislation to meet EU standards. Important instruments in this regard in the sectors of environment and forest were the EU funded project ELPA “Implementation of the national plan for the approximation of the environmental legislation (August 2008-November 2010)”1, and the ongoing project “Technical assis- tance for strengthening the capacity of the Ministry of Environment, Forests and Water Administration in Albania for law drafting and enforcement of national environmental legislation” (2012-2014), as well as the WB sup- ported forestry projects, including NRDP. The following sections summarize the concepts included in the main regula- tory framework relevant to ESP implementation. Law on Environmental Protection2 The 2011 Law on Environmental Protection, No. 10431, substitutes the 2002 Law No. 8934 and transposes the Directive 2004/35/EC on environ- mental liability. The Law entered into force in 2012. It provides a clear le- gal basis and framework for further transposition of a large number of envi- ronmental directives which are relevant to the protection of the environ- ment. Many new by-laws are still required for the implementation of the new Law. Drafts of some have already been prepared such as the DCM on the Implementation of Pollutant Release and Transfer Register, and DCM on Access to Public on Environmental Information. The law recognizes and provides for the protection and preservation of five elements of the environment: Water, Air, Soil, Nature and Forests, and Cli- mate Change related issues. It provides for the protection of environment in the process of planning, including the use of instrument like environmental strategies and plans, Local Environmental Action Plans, Strategic Environ- ment Assessment and Environment Impact Assessment. According to this Act, all activities that affect the environment should be subject to an Impact Assessment and licensing system, which are developed in more detail in the Environmental Impact Assessment Act (2011). The law provides the basis for State of Environment Monitoring which in- cludes monitoring of: a. Quality of groundwater’s; b. Air quality; c. Waste; d. Noise; e. Radiation; 1 Activities were focusing among others on: Drafting of a new Law on Envi- ronmental Protection through transposition and integration of directives in- cluded in IPC sector; Transposition of the horizontal legislation in line with Directive 97/11/EC, 91/692/EEC and 90/313/EEC; Drafting secondary leg- islation; Full transposition of EU legislation on solid waste. 2 UNECE EPR2012 19 f. Soil quality; g. Flora, fauna, biodiversity and forest; h. The impacts of significant economic sectors on environmental compo- nents; i. Monitoring natural phenomena and its potential impacts on environ- ment; j. Monitoring the impacts of environmental pollution on human health. The law also provides for the establishment of the Environmental Infor- mation System for the purpose of integrated protection and management of environment and/or its individual components, monitoring of implementa- tion of environmental policies, national and international reporting and providing information to the public. The law provides also dispositions regarding environmental liability based on the “polluter pays principles” and obligations for remediation and restitu- tion measures. Law on Environmental Impact Assessment-EIA1 The 2011 Law on Environmental Impact Assessment, No. 10440, aims at improving the existing environmental impact assessment (EIA) system. It fully transposes the Directive of 27 June 1985 “On the assessment of the ef- fects of certain public and private projects on the environment” as amended by Directive 97/11/EC, Directive 2003/35/EC and Directive 2009/31/EC. The aim of the law is to ensure a high level of environmental protection through prevention, mitigation and compensation of potential adverse envi- ronmental impacts of implemented projects (activities) as well as making a transparent and open decision making process with the inclusion of all inter- ested stakeholders. The objective of this law is to provide environmental clearance to new de- velopment activities following environmental impact assessment. The EIA law defines the rules, procedures, deadlines, rights and duties on the process of the assessment of the potential direct/indirect impacts of the activity on the environment. According to EIA law, all projects and activities are broad- ly categorized into two categories. All projects or activities included in An- nex I require full scale environment impact assessment. Activities included under Annex II require an environmental screening by a certified environ- mental expert. At the end of the EIA process, based on the activity type, one of three types of environmental permit is issued: • Integrated environmental permit (MoEFWA competence); • Environmental permit (MoEFWA competence); • Environmental consent or authorization (issued by REAs). 1 UNECE 2012 EPR 20 It should be noted that none of the foreseen activities of the ESP fare in- cluded in Annex I since they are small scale interventions mostly designed to prevent land degradation. Any proposed activity which should need a full EIA will not be financed by the ESP project. However, some of the activi- ties could be include in Annex II of the Law (the list is attached in Annex 2) list of activities requiring an environmental screening. The law requires public information and consultation process to be conduct- ed only for the full scale environmental impact assessment (Annex I activi- ties). Art.7 (point 4) provides that the methodologies for EIA and proce- dures to be followed are defined by guidelines to be approved by the Minis- try of Environment. However, bylaws are presently still missing including the one related to the certification of experts. Law on Environmental Permitting The Law on Environmental Permitting, no 10448/2011, transposes com- pletely EU: Directive 2008/1/EC of January 15 2008 on integrated pollution prevention and control. The law defines three different categories of activities requiring environ- mental permits based on their impact on the environment as well as proce- dures for permit granting, as well as the three different types of permits to be issued by the Ministry structures. The law also characterize the measures for the pollution and damage prevention of the activities, and when is not possible the mitigation measures for the pollution in air, water and soil. This such permitting regime is not enforced at the present time in Albania as the list of installations for which such types of permits must be issued has not been published by the Ministry of Environment although it was expected by 2013. Given the time horizon of the ESP, it may be that this permitting regulation may be issued during its implementation, but given the nature of the activities foreseen by the ESP, it is not expected that they will need to undergo major permitting procedures. Forestry Law The Law on Forests and Forestry Service Police, (no 9385/2005), is the main law on forests. The law states that forest resources in Albania should be managed in a sustainable way to fulfill multiple purposes including pro- duction, protection and conservation of biodiversity. It addresses forest use rights, including community-based forest management, and establishes for- est governance bodies. It is supported by various regulations setting stump- age and other forest fees, guidelines for auctions of standing wood, instruc- tions for protection against forest fires, the principles for the selection and establishment of protected areas, and the use of forests for recreational pur- poses. 21 Additional existing significant regulatory tools in this sector are the follow- ing1: - The 2008 MoEFWA Order on Approval of Forms for Identification of Forest and Pasture Fires sets up a centralized system for data collection on forest and pasture fires. - The 2010 Regulation for the Prevention and Suppression of Wild Fires in Forests and Pastures, and for the Organization of the Voluntary Units for Fire Suppression. - The 2008 Guidelines on the Cadastre of Forest and Pasture Fund are fundamental for the development of monitoring of the state of forests and pastures in Albania. The new Draft Law on Forests This law regulates the development and protection of forests and pastures as natural resources and a national wealth of special importance, for its irre- placeable values in climate and soil protection, conservation and improve- ment of the balance of the natural environment, biodiversity, genetic re- sources, production potentials and hydro regime, as liabilities in the interest of present and future generations, on the national level and beyond. The object of this law are the governance, management and the protection of national forest and pasture resources, based on the principles of sustainable development, reflected in sector strategic documents and the commitments of the Republic of Albania in the framework of international conventions, agreements, protocols and treaties signed to ensure the preservation of bio- logical diversity, regenerative abilities and potential, with the aim of contin- uously fulfilling the environmental, economic, social and cultural functions, in the interest of the whole society, locally and nationally. It sets rules, obligations, rights, responsibilities and relationships of state in- stitutions, local government units, private owners, users, non for profit or- ganizations and private business, management, governance and protection of the national forest and pasture resources. The law also defines the organi- zation and functioning of the Forest Service as a public service, and it uni- fies the information system of forests and pastures, regardless of form of ownership. It is foreseen that the monitoring of forests and pastures will be carried out by the Agency for Environment and Forest as part of the national environ- mental monitoring effort, in cooperation with the forest service. The Forest Police, under the National Environmental Inspectorate is the main special- ized body for enforcing the law. The law foresees several implementation decrees to be issued in a 6 month period after its approval and entry to force (about 15 by law acts). 1 UNECE EPR 2012 22 A first draft Law is being prepared and still under discussion with the inter- ested stakeholders; it is expected to be sent for approval in the Parliament by the end of 2013. Law for Pasture Fund The aim of this Law, no 9693/2007, is to manage the pastures and meadows fund, the assessment of the caring capacity and the protection of the ecolog- ical balance in these ecosystems, defining the role and responsibilities of the related government and local institutions, as well as the scientific and spe- cialized institutions, private sector and related business. It requests the inventorying and registration procedures for pastures and meadows land by the respective forest regional structure every 10 years. This law requests the elaboration of a strategy (every 10 years) and plan of actions (every 3 years), elaborated by the government structures, and a man- agement plan (every 10 years) elaborated by different actors but approved by the local/regional forestry government entity. Additional draft regulatory tools in the forestry sector are the following: • Draft Law on Genetic Material and Pastures. • Draft Law on the Identification of the Criteria and Procedures for the Crea- tion of Strategic Wood Material in Stands and the Treatment of Virgin For- ests. Law on Protected Areas The object of this Law, no 8906/2002, is the declaration, preservation, ad- ministrations, management and usage of protected areas and their natural and biological resources; the facilitation of conditions for the development of environmental tourism, for the information and education of the general public and for economic profits direct or indirect, by the local population, by the public and private sector. The purpose of this law is to provide spe- cial protection for important components of natural reserves, biodiversity and the nature as a whole, through the establishment of protected areas. This law regulates the protection of six categories of protected areas, applied in the territory of the Republic of Albania. The categorization of areas, status and level of protection for each area is based on the criteria of World Centre of Nature Conservation (IUCN). Dispositions of this law regulate also the procedures for the declaration of e PA, removal and change of the status of PA and its buffer zone, management plans and their implementation, owner- ship in PA, activities in PA, the right to visit a PA, monitoring and admin- istration bodies, environmental impact assessment, objectives of Ecological network, development, planning, coordination and direction of ecological network, etc. The designation of protected areas request the participation of all stakehold- ers stated that a declaration of a protected area shall be made “upon receipt of opinion from local government organs, specialised institutions, non-profit organizations and from private owners in case their estate is includes in the protected area”. In addition, it is required that the proposal declaring the 23 protected area includes “the results of consultation process with civil society stakeholders, in particular the approval by the local municipality within and around the proposed area, including received comments and reflection into the proposal”. The law had been amended in 2008 by inclusion of the main provisions of the Habitats Directive, 1991/43/EC. According to the amendment, the terri- tory of the protected area can divided into subzones, according to the im- portance of habitats and ecosystems which are part of, stipulating that inter- nal zoning “may contain central area, recreation area, the area of tradi- tional use, the area of sustainable development and other subzones which fit to the territory”. The amendment also introduces a new protected category as the “Regional Parks” for the area with interest to the community. A DCM has been approved in 2011 to transpose the rules and procedures for the designation of Special Areas for Conservation, foreseen by annexes III and IV of the Habitats Directive. Law on Biodiversity Protection The overall objective of the Law on Biodiversity protection, no 9587/2006, is “to ensure the protection and the preservation of biological diversity” and to “regulate the sustainable use of the biological diversity components, through the integration of the key elements of biodiversity in strategies, plans, programs and in decision making at all levels”. This law established the legal basis for the conservation and sustainable use of biodiversity in compliance with the requirements of the Convention on Biodiversity and the EU Habitat and Wild Bird Directives. The law identifies the instruments for biodiversity planning and protection including National Biodiversity Strategies and Action Plans (NBSAP), bio- diversity inventorying and monitoring network, emergency plans and trans- boundary impact assessments. Other regulations relevant to the sector include the following: - The Wildlife Protection Act (2008) To protect wild animals and birds through the creation of National Parks and Sanctuaries - The Law on the Determination of Rules and Procedures Governing In- ternational Trade of Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (No.9867/ 2008). - TheLaw on the Protection of Wild Fauna (2008) endorsed provisions of the Birds Directive related to protection measures. - The DCM on the Determination of the Criteria for Establishment of Bi- odiversity Inventory and Monitoring Network, (no. 84/2009), prepared the ground for the biodiversity monitoring network to be set up in Alba- nia. - The 2010 Law on Hunting endorsed all provisions of the EU Birds Di- rective related to hunting means, methods and precautionary measures to be undertaken in order to ensure the long-term survival of bird species and of their habitats. 24 Law “Integrated management of water resources” The Law on Integrated Management of Water Resources, no 111/2012, was prepared on the basis of the Water Framework Directive (200/60/EC) and regulates the legal status of water and water state, the methods and condi- tions of water management (water use, water protection, regulation of wa- tercourses and other water bodies, and protection from adverse effects of water), the method of organizing and performing of water management tasks and functions, basic conditions for carrying out of water management activities; powers and duties of Government administration and other Gov- ernment bodies, local authorities and other legal subjects, and other issues of importance to water management. The law provides that a programme for the monitoring of water status in each River Basin shall be established and implemented (Article 7 of WFD) in order to have a coherent and comprehensive overview of the water status in the river basin district. For surface waters the programme shall cover the volume and level or rate of flow to the extent relevant for ecological and chemical status. For groundwater the programme shall cover monitoring of the chemical and quantitative status. The law also requires specific monitor- ing of waters used for abstraction of drinking water. The National Water Council is responsible for establishing and implementing the monitoring programme. The following legal acts are presently still waiting for approval. • Decision on Urban Wastewater Treatment; • Decision on Priority Substances in Water; • Decision on Water Quality Standards Law “On protection of air from pollution” The Law on protection of air pollution, no 8897/2002, amended by law no. 10266/2010, is intended to guarantee the right of every individual to live in a clean air environment, protect human health, fauna, flora and natural and cultural values of the Albanian environment from air pollution through: - measures to forecast air quality of the environment, in order to avoid, prevent or reduce harmful effects on health and the environment as a whole; - assessment of ambient air quality based on the methods and criteria used in the European Community; - obtaining appropriate information for ambient air quality and ensure availability of this information to the public, among other things, by sig- nalling thresholds; - Maintaining the quality of ambient air, when it is good and to improve it in other cases". The law requirements include the following: - An air Quality Monitoring and Management plan is established di- viding the territory of Albania into specific monitoring zones. - National Action Plans for air quality are developed every 5 years in order to prevent and or reduce the air pollution. 25 - Local air quality action plans to be developed if an air quality hot spot is located within a territory. Law on Public Participation in the decision making process for the environment” The right for the public information had been mentioned in article 13 of the new law of environment with the aim of the transparency and their partici- pation in the decision making process and elaboration of strategic docu- ments. The decision of the government no. 994, date 2.7.2008 “For public partici- pation in the decision making process for environment”, is based on the Aarhus Convention text. It explains all the steps of the participation of the public in this process and the methods in doing it. Furthermore in the law of EIA the process of participation of the public in consultation for the pre- pared report is explain in details and give a broad space to the public before the decision is made. In the last period in Albania the cooperation with civil society and public access to information is improved. However, the Laws on Environmental Impact Assessment and Environmental Permits are still not aligned with the acquis and include serious deviations such as the ‘silent consent’ concept. Relevant environmental impact assessments and public consultations are not systematically carried out. Law on Irrigation and Drainage (No 8515/99) Although not directly tied to the environmental sector, the Law on irrigation and drainage is significant for the ESP project as it foresees to finance small irrigation systems rehabilitation and construction for which the Law sets the following rules: - irrigation systems and drainage systems shall be operated in an equitable manner so as to promote and protect the interests of all beneficiaries; - irrigation systems and drainage systems shall be operated in a rational manner so as to prevent over-watering, erosion and pollution and to promote the protection of the environment; - the beneficiaries of irrigation systems, drainage systems and flood de- fence works should bear the costs of their operation and maintenance. Article 5 of the Law foresees and regulates the creation of water users or- ganisations that may be created to manage and maintain one or more irriga- tion systems. Additional laws relevant to the environmental sector include the following: - Draft Law, transposition of EU Directive 2001/42/EC on Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) - Draft DCM on Air Quality Management, transposition of Directive 2008/50/EC on ambient air quality and cleaner air for Europe, and Directive 2004/107/EC relating to arsenic, cadmium, mercury, nick- el and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in ambient air. 26 - Law on Integrated Waste Management transposes the Waste Framework Directive 2008/98/EC completely. The draft law was approved by Parliament in October - 2011, but on 3 November 2011 the President refused to decree it and returned it to Parliament for further consideration. - Draft Law on Accidents Control from Risks related to Hazardous Substances which transposes the directives 96/82/EC, 2003/105/EC, 1999/314/EC and 91/692/EC. - Draft Law on Bans and Restrictions of Production to be placed on the Market and Use of Certain Hazardous Substances, Mixtures and Articles partially transposes Regulation EC/1907/2006 concerning the Registration, Evaluation, Authorization and Restriction of Chem- icals (REACH). - Draft Law on Persistent Organic Pollutants fully transposes Regula- tion EC/850/2004, as amended by Directive 79/117/EEC. - Law on Protection of Marine Environment from Pollution and Dam- age, No. (8905/2002). - Law on Protection of Transboundary Lakes, No. 9103/2003. - Law on Environmental Treatment of Polluted Water, No. 9115/2003. - 2008 Law on Irrigation and Drainage, No. 9860 3.3.2 Enforcement of Legislation Enforcement of environmental legislation in Albania is hindered by the lack of economic resources which limits both monitoring and inspection activi- ties. Poor implementation and weak enforcement are also due to the absence of information and education campaigns that would increase public aware- ness and sense of responsibility. Measures are being undertaken by the Ministry with the support of the EU and other donors to strengthen the country’s monitoring networks and the Environment Inspectorate, as well as the Forestry Police and the Fishery In- spectorate. Practical mechanisms for enforcement are incomplete and inadequate, and in need of simplification. The principal enforcement instruments are fines, suspending or closing operations, withdrawing permits (issued through EIA) and prosecution under one of the seven environmental crimes in the Penal Code. Only a small percentage of fines imposed for violating the law are ac- tually paid, because the penalty for nonpayment, confiscation, is a very slow and complicated procedure. The administrative capacity in the environment sector has been increased in the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Water Administration, the inspec- torates and the river basin agencies. However, the Ministry of Environment still lacks financial and human resources. Other issues include the follow- ing: - The cooperation and coordination with the other Ministries need to be improved. 27 - The Environment Agency needs extensive investment in equipment and training to manage issues such as permit applications, permit monitoring, environmental monitoring and sampling and legislative enforcement. - The National Environment Inspectorate is understaffed. Local au- thorities have limited budgets and scarce administrative tools to de- velop the infrastructure and services required. - Coordination within the central government and between state and local authorities is weak. 3.4 EU Directives As mentioned in the previous sections, one of the key objectives of the Government of Albania’s Strategic Plan for European Integration is further harmonisation with the EU’s environmental aquis. Considering the ESP’s sectors of interventions, the most relevant pieces of EU legislation are the following: - Habitats Directive; Directive 92/43/EEC on the Conservation of Natural - Habitats and of Wild Fauna and Flora. - Birds Directive; Directive 79/409/EEC on the Conservation of Wild Birds. - Water Framework Directive; Directive 2000/60/EC establishing a framework for - Community action in the field of water policy. - Council Regulation 1698/2005; on support for Rural Development from the - European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development (EAFRD). - New EU Draft Forest Strategy awaited by the end of 2013. Details of the objectives of the above mentioned directives and an overview of the main requirements that must be undertaken by Member States, and ul- timately by Albania if it joins the EU, are outlined in Annex 3. 3.5 Key Institutional Framework1 The main institution dealing with environmental issues in Albania is the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Water Administration (MoEFWA) which was established in 2001. Since 2002, the tasks and structure of the Ministry has been changed several times. The 2011 Law on Environmental Protection and laws relating to protection of air, water, biodiversity define the responsibilities of MoEFWA. At the same time, according to the Law on Environmental Protection, other entities (ministries, councils) also serve “as legal administrators of various parts and components of the environ- ment”. In cooperation with the MoEFWA and on defined scope of duty, they provide important contribution to the protection of environment. 1 UNECE EPR 2012 28 Currently, the MoEFWA is responsible also for forestry issues. About 120 employees work in 3 general directorates. Operative Support is provided by the Environment and Forest Agency (EFA) with its 12 regional environment agencies (REAs), and by 12 Regional Inspectorates with 39 inspectors. The main duties of the EFA are the following: - Provides technical support, services and consultation to MoEFWA; - Performs monitoring activities; - Collects, processes and publicizes information on environment and forestry; - Prepares and publicizes the State of Environment Report; - Organizes and participates in training programmes and project im- plementation. The main duties of the EI inspectors are to: - Control the compliance of entities with the requirements of envi- ronmental legislation and conditions of environmental permits; - Monitor the environmental impact of the entities and determine measures to be taken for - environmental protection; - Draft the annual program of inspections; As resources and instrumentation are limited, their inspections is limited to visual impacts. The REAs control and ensure the implementation of the environmental legal framework, issue permits and control compliance with their conditions, and collect and process data on the environmental situation. REAs conduct envi- ronmental inspections and participate in the process of releasing environ- mental declarations in the context of specific projects. Additional territorial units, which work according to an integrated annual and monthly plan supervised by the Ministry, include: - 36 district forestry services directorates-DFSD (with some 1100 em- ployees, being reduced); - 6 watershed agencies (with about 20 employees) - 13 drainage boards (DBs), supervised by MoAFCP, are currently the key operators responsible for major irrigation systems, drainage management and flood protection including reservoir dam safety. DFSD technical functions and responsibilities include control over the im- plementation of legal provisions and by-laws in force for forests, pastures, protected areas, wild flora and fauna, hunting and other activities that take place in forests. In close collaboration with the LGUs, the DFSDs play an important role in the forest transfer process and are also expected to serve as a forest exten- sion body for communal and private forests, by organizing training and ex- tension services for private owners and specialized structures in LGUs re- sponsible for communal forests. 29 The tasks of the regional institutions of MoEFWA are complex. The current conditions are not always adequate to requirements. The implementation of environmental policy, compliance with environmental legislation and per- mitting depend on their work. Capacity of regional institutions of MoEFWA satisfies neither the current nor the expectedly higher requirements in the fu- ture. Local government units (LGUs, comprising municipalities and communes) represent an important element for environmental protection. With regard to waste management, they are required to: - Designate sites for the collection and processing of production waste in accordance with - environmental criteria and development plans; - Organize the dumping of waste and hazardous substances, and the protection of green areas in urban zones and their surroundings; - Administer management of urban waste, including water treatment plants and solid waste management. With regard to noise management, it is the LGUs which: - Lead the formulation and implementation of local action plans for noise control that are - approved by councils of municipalities and communes; - Lead the process of noise mapping; - Declare quiet zones in populated or open environments and place limitations on noise in accordance with local action plans. The local government environmental inspection and control structures are responsible for implementing the law at the local level. The Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Consumer Protection (MAFCP), is responsible for water utilization for irrigation purposes and for drainage is- sues. Issues at regional level, are dealt by the regional directorate of Agri- culture and through drainage boards; 3.5.1 Environmental Monitoring Environmental monitoring in Albania is presently very limited and frag- mented and is being developed mostly through specifically dedicated pro- jects. However, its present scope of work does not cover the whole country and data from the rural areas in basically nonexistent. Between 2010 and 2013, an EU-IPA funded project has been in implemen- tation with the objective to support the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Water Administration to implement a National Monitoring Program through the expansion and consolidation of an operational Integrated Environmental Monitoring System (IEMS), capable of using environmental standards and EU directives as a general reference framework. The revision of IEMS has been completed and is presently the object of fine-tuning. The representa- tiveness of each monitoring and sampling site has been assessed. Prioritiza- tion of indicators and stations has been completed taking into account the national, EU and other international requirements. The process of prioritiza- tion has provided the basis for elaborating different sets of monitoring pro- 30 grammes. In this way the System has been transformed made more flexible and more affordable for present financial funding potentials of the country. The Basic Environmental Monitoring Programme (EMP) proposed for 2013 includes high priority stations and parameters, but due to limited funds the program is implemented for 60% of its scope of work. One of the main ac- tivities of this project is also the development of the integrated database in- cluding specific components for air, water, soil and biodiversity. The com- plete integrated database has now been installed in the National Environ- mental Agency for fine-tuning. 4. PROJECT CONTEXT DESCRIPTION Albania is situated in the south-western region of the Balkan Peninsula. The country has a total area of 28,748 km2, which makes it one of the smallest countries in Europe. The neighboring countries are Montenegro to the north- west, Serbia to the north-east, , the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia to the north and east, and Greece to the south and south-east. Albania has a 487 km-long coastline divided between the Adriatic and Ionian Seas. The climate varies with the topography. The main climatic regions of the country are the coastal lowlands with typically Mediterranean weather and the highlands with a Mediterranean-continental climate. These general cli- matic patterns are markedly affected by the geographic latitude and by variations in altitude. Over 70 per cent of the country is vary rugged and largely inaccessible mountains. Due to the convergence of the airflow from the Mediterranean Sea and the continental air mass, the average precipitation is heavy. Average annual rainfall in the mountains can be as high as 3,000 mm, while on the coast, it averages 1,000 mm. Most of the precipitation drains into the rivers and flows into the Adriatic Sea. The average temperatures in August, the hottest month, range from 17° to 31°C. In January, the coldest month, they range from 2° to 12°C. Albania is administratively divided into 12 prefectures (or counties), under which there are 36 districts. The third-level administrative divisions, munic- ipalities in urban areas or communes in rural areas, are below these prefec- tures and districts. The larger municipalities are called “Bashki” in Albani- an. On 1 October 2011, the usually resident population in Albania was 2 821 9771. The population has declined around 8.0 per cent, compared to the 2001 census, where the enumerated population was 3 069 275. The differ- ence is largely due to emigration, which typically occurs in the young gen- eration. 1 The 2011 Albanian Population and Housing Census 31 The resident population in urban areas was 53.5 per cent while 46.5 per cent of the population lived in rural areas. This shows that internal population movements have continued at high levels during the inter-censual period 2001-2011 mainly from rural areas to urban areas whose already weak and insufficient infrastructure has been put under significant stress. Most of today’s environmental degradation in rural areas is closely tied to poverty. With little wealth, infrastructure or modern standards of living, natural resources are over-exploited (e.g. forest destruction, over-grazing, over-fishing), thus seriously threatening wildlife and the natural environ- ment. 4.1 Description of the Environmental Baseline The focus of the ESP is sustainable rural community development through the implementation of environmental friendly forest and pasture manage- ment methodologies, erosion control measures and development of income producing agricultural and recreational activities. The ESP will also continue with the NRDP carbon sequestration activities, while it also introduces the innovative PES component which has the objec- tive to foresee remuneration for all those interventions that reduce land ero- sion problems and provide direct benefits to down stream parties such as hydroelectric power plants. Given these general objectives, the components of the environmental base- line which have been considered for the Environmental Assessment of the ESP are the following: a) Air (as far as Climate Change issues are concerned) b) Land degradation c) Water resources/water quality d) Forests e) Protected areas/Biodiversity 4.1.1 Air Very limited air monitoring is presently conducted in the country and it is mainly done in urban areas. In the Albanian rural areas however there is lit- tle concern related to air quality, but rather the effect that non sustainable forest management may have on the broader issue of Climate Change. Al- bania ratified the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) in 1995. 1According to its First National Communication (FNC), Albania is a rela- tively low net emitter of greenhouse gases (GHGs), with relatively low car- bon dioxide (CO2) emissions per capita, mainly due to the fact that over 90% of its power generation is hydroelectrical. The energy sector contrib- utes more than 60% of total emissions. Relatively high CO2 emissions on a per-GDP basis are explained mainly due to high energy intensity. Based on 1 Haki Kola & Enkeleda Pjetri Albania Country Report: FAO Forest and Climate Change in Eastern Europe and Central Asia, 2010. 32 the predictions for future emissions, by 2020 total emissions will rise by more than five times. Commitments to be fulfilled through becoming a party to the UNFCCC are the following: - Develop, periodically update, publish and make national inventories of anthropogenic emissions by sources and removals by sinks of all GHGs not controlled by the Montreal Protocol. - Formulate, implement, publish and regularly update national and, where appropriate, regional programmes containing measures to mit- igate climate change. - Communicate information related to implementation of the UNFCCC to the Conference of Parties (CoP). Literature review indicates that climate change effects in Albania include the following: - Season characteristics and duration (winters are milder and shorter, summers are longer and hotter); - Droughts in summer and sometimes even in autumn, and then sud- den floods, - Coastal erosion all along the Adriatic coast due to sea level rise— - Destruction of the coastal forests and vegetation, - Increasing the salinity in the lagoons and fields near the coast. - Increased forest fires. The NRDP financed activities to sequester carbon in 4,774 ha of degraded forest or bare-lands and sequestered 63,759 tons of Carbon between 2004 and 2010, with an additional 140,000 tons of carbon foreseen to be seques- tered by 2018. The following Figures 3 and 4 show photographs of Carbon sequestration intervention in the Communes of Ulza (Mediterranean pines) and Baz (Ro- binia) Figure 2: Carbon Sequestration Activities in Ulza Commune 33 Figure 3: Carbon Sequestration Activities in Ulza Commune 4.1.2 Soil and Groundwater Land degradation and soil erosion is one of the main environmental issues in the country. While visiting different Communes during the assignment, soil erosion was the main concern for most of the Mayors and most of the people interviewed. The following Figure 5 and 6 show some of the land erosion effects that were evident in the Commune of Suçi. Figure 4: Land erosion along the national road near Burrel Figure 5: Land erosion along the national road in Komsia Commune 34 Uncontrolled grazing on pasture lands and wood cutting for heating are some of the main factors that lead to land degradation and to soil erosion. The 2009-2010 State of the Environment Report indicates that soil ero- sion continues to be significant and quantities of sediment close to 8-24 tons/ha per year are transported by river water. The highest value of soil erosion is found in the rivers Shkumbin and Seman. The following Figure 7 shows a map of the land erosion situation in the country. Figure 6: Land Erosion across Albania 35 The following Figure 8 shows the different land uses in the country in 2011. Figure 7: Land use in Albania in 2011 Source: FAO stat at http://faostat3.fao.org/home/index.html#VISUALIZE_BY_AREA (accessed on 17.8.2013). The following Figure 9 shows the network of soil quality monitoring sta- tions in the country proposed by the IPA financed Basic Environmental Monitoring Programme (EMP) for 2013. Figure 8: Proposed network of soil quality monitoring stations 36 While the following Figure 10 shows the EMP proposed network for groundwater quality monitoring. Figure 9: Proposed network for groundwater quality monitoring. 4.1.3 Forests1 The 2005 Albanian Law on Forests and the Forestry Service, No. 9385, de- fines forests as an area covered at least 30 per cent by dense trees on more than one tenth of a hectare, while open forest or forest land is defined as an area covered 5-30 per cent by forest vegetation, unregistered in another land-use cadastre. In 2009 the forestry lands (high forests, low forests/coppices, shrubs and other areas with forest vegetation) encompassed 1,071,880.2 ha, which ac- counts for 37.28 per cent of the territory of Albania. The deciduous high forest tree species (in particular beech and oak) were prevailing in Albania’s forest resources in 2009, both in terms of surface covered (56.8 per cent) and stand volume (69.6 per cent), while coniferous forest stands (mostly black pine, fir and maritime pine) accounted for only 16.4 per cent of the total forest land area and for 21.1 per cent of the total forest stand volume. Areas overgrown by bushes accounted for some 24 per cent of the total forest area and 9.3 per cent of the total timber volume. 1 UNECE EPR 2012 37 Almost three quarters of the territory extends between 200 and 2,000 m above sea level, with a mean value of 708 m, which is twice the average for Europe. Forests are distributed over most of the country but, due to the agri- cultural use of lowlands, are predominantly on hilly and mountainous areas with steep and partly unstable slopes. Importantly, the 2005 national forest inventory shows that on the slope gra- dient in afforested areas, the majority (62.15 per cent) of forest sample plots were located on terrain with a slope gradient exceeding 40 per cent where forest management, and in particular forest harvesting, should not take place. Only 2.61 per cent of sample plots were in the 0-10 per cent gradient category most suitable for forest management practices and a further 35.24 per cent in the 11-40 per cent category where the management of forests, in- cluding harvesting, can still be economically sustainable. In addition, the accessibility of forest stands which are suitable for man- agement is further limited by the generally underdeveloped network of for- estry roads. Consequently, forest management practices, in particular log- ging (both authorized and illegal), concentrate on the most accessible areas, directly adjacent to existing regular transport roads. Over the last 70 years the forest area has been reduced by more than 300,000 ha mostly due to clearance for agriculture. Rural poverty has caused severe damage through overharvesting and overgrazing. Such prac- tices may result in additional adverse effects as a decrease in natural water retention capacity, increased threat of forest fires, and the disappearance of wildlife and bird species which require larger undisturbed forest complexes. Deforestation is considered one of the major environmental problems in Al- bania. The forests around villages are generally the most damaged and de- graded as villagers cut wood for heating and cooking. In addition, the lack of investment in silviculture, reforestation, pest and disease control, maintenance of forest roads, fire protection, etc., continues to cause the loss and degradation of the habitats of many forest flora and fauna species. The implementation of sustainable forestry policies and practices is there- fore a priority issue for Albania. In 2004 the DGFP issued the Strategy for the Development of the Forestry and Pasture Sector in Albania: Action Plan which identified the following six main forest policy goals: - Maintain the integrity of the forests and pastures; - Promote sustainable natural resource management; - Promote the transition to a market-driven economy; - Transfer management responsibility for selected State forests and pastures to the local government; - Improve State management of production forests and the summer pasture resource base; and - Develop recreation and tourism opportunities in forests and protect- ed areas. 38 Between 1990 and 2009 the total surface of forest land increased by some 27,200 ha (Table 4). Simultaneously, the surface area classified as high for- est decreased by some 32,300 ha (6.6. per cent of the high forest surface in 1990) and in 2009 accounted for 42.37 per cent of the total surface. Howev- er, depending on the statistical method used for forest area and forest type classification, available data on forest structure may differ. For instance, da- ta from the 2004 national forest inventory project, Special Study on Forest and Pasture General Plan, following the categorization method later con- firmed by the 2005 Law on Forests and the Forestry Service, estimates the high forest surface at 294,957 ha (19.68 per cent of the total forest area) with a breakdown into areas covered by coniferous high forest (84,461 ha) and broad-leafed high forest (210,496 ha), while the acreage of coppice for- est is estimated at 405,016 ha (27.02 per cent), of shrubs at 241,724 ha (16.13 per cent). Table 4: Changes in forestry land structure between 1990 and 2009 Surface (in thousand ha) Type of Area 1990 1995 2000 2005 2009 Forest 788.8 775.2 769.3 782.4 784.9 High Forest 486.5 471.2 459.6 458.3 454.2 Low forest 302.3 304.0 309.7 324.1 330.7 Shrubs 255.9 254.8 254.5 257,8 257,9 Other areas with forest vegetation 14.7 23.9 23.8 29.1 Total >1,044.7 1,044.7 1,047 1,064.0.7 1,071.9 Sources: FAO Global Forest Resources Assessment, 2010. The Albania Forestry Project (AFP) between 1996 and 2004 and the Natural Resource Development Project (NRDP) between 2006 and 2011, both fi- nanced by the World Bank, have first supported the transfer of user rights and management of forest and pastures from the State to local communities. Under the communal forestry component of the AFP some 1,284 ha were successfully afforested, 10,378 ha received cleaning and/or pre commercial thinning and vegetative cutting was carried out on a further 1,578 ha. In ad- dition some 36 km of fence was constructed to protect natural regeneration and re-growth. The NRDP supported the preparation and implementation of Communal Forestry and Pasture Management Plans (CFPMPs) and Communal Micro- Catchment Plans (CMCPs) in 251 communes for a total of 775,511 ha of forests and pastures. The ESP should expand this to the rest of the country. The following Figures 11 and 12 show photographs of silvicultural inter- ventions in the Commune of Baz . The first photograph shows the effects of forest regeneration after a few years while the second shows the forest at the beginning of the intervention. 39 Figure 10: Silvicultural intervention in the Commune of Baz This side of the road shows thick regenerated forest after intervention Figure 11: Silvicultural intervention in the Commune of Baz The other side of the road shows thinner and poorer forest at an earlier in- tervention stage. 40 The following Figure 13 is the forest cover map of the country. Figure 12: Forest Cover in the Country. 4.1.4 Surface Water Despite its relatively small size, Albania is rich in water resources that in- clude rivers, groundwater, lakes and seas. As mentioned earlier, because the water divide is to the east of Albania’s borders, a lot of water from neighboring countries drains through Albania to the Adriatic Sea. However, only the Drini, the longest river in the coun- try which flows in from Kosovo, (length 285 km), has a stable, constant flow while most other rivers have irregular seasonal flow patterns and some are totally dry in the summer season. 41 Figure 13: The river Fan in the month of August from Rubik Commune The three lakes of Albania, lakes, Ohrid, Shkoder and Prespa, are all situat- ed on the country’s borders (FYR Macedonia, Montenegro and Greece r e- spectively). The biggest, Lake Ohrid, has an area of 358.2 km2. The following Figure 15 shows Albania’s seven river watersheds. These are the Drini, the Mati, the Ishmi, the Erzeni, the Shkumbini, the Semani and the Vjosa. The rivers are generally mountainous and have a torrential regime. In general, river flows are the highest in winter or early spring during the wet season and carry large quantities of solid matter. All the watersheds will be targeted by the ESP project Figure 14: Main Watersheds of Albania 42 4.1.5 Surface Water Quality1 The quality of surface water is not well known throughout the country due to very limited ongoing monitoring of both waste water emissions and water quality. In general, the quality is often a problem due to pollution through discharge of untreated wastewater from urban settlements, as well as from industries with obsolete technology. The uncontrolled dumping of urban waste on the banks of rivers exacerbates the problem of the quality of surface water. This high pollution load in sur- face water is leading to a deterioration of groundwater quality and especially concerns low-lying ar- eas, where most of the population lives and most industrial and agricultural activities take place. The discharge of sewage in water bodies, especially in coastal tourist areas and delicate ecosystems, is a major environmental concern for the Govern- ment, the business community and the public. Feasibility studies and de- tailed designs have been completed (for Vlora, Saranda, Durrës, Lezha, Shengjin and Pogradec) and constructions of sewerage water treatment plants are ongoing in Saranda, Durrës and Lezha with the support of differ- ent donors. Environmental monitoring of waters is carried out by several scientific insti- tutes contracted by the MEFWA on annual basis: Institute for Energy, Wa- ter and Environment (ex- Hydrometeorology Institute) for surface water quality and quantity, Agency of Environment and Forestry (ex-Institute of Environment) for wastewater discharges, and Institute of Public Health for water biological monitoring. Presently, water quality monitoring is based on information provided by sampling at the 30 stations of the national river water quality monitoring network and monitoring at 6 lake stations. Wastewater discharges in the eight main cities are monitored to measure their impacts on rivers, lakes and coastal waters. Groundwater monitoring on a low scale is carried out in the Drini, Mati, Ishmi–Erzeni, Shkumbini, Semani, Vjosa and Zona Jonike ba- sins. However, it is insufficient to present a comprehensive assessment of the current situation. The following Figure 16 shows the proposed EMP network of surface water and monitoring stations in the country. 1 UNECE EPR 2012 43 Figure 15: Surface water quality monitoring stations Source: CEMSA Project Consolidation of the Environmental Monitoring System in Albania, May 2013. 4.1.6 Irrigation1 Agriculture has always been, and is still, the main resource of Albania. Be- cause of the climatic features along the coast where most of the country’s high productive lands are located, agriculture is critically dependent on irri- gation. Yet the irrigation networks suffered at the fall of the State farms sys- tem, either by direct destruction or by lack of maintenance. Of the total area of 423,000 ha which is designed to be covered by the irrigation system, only 180,000 ha are covered by a working irrigation system. To cope with the deficiencies in the irrigation networks, the present practice is to use groundwater for irrigation. This practice endangers the aquifers, since the extracted discharges are not subject to any control, and may lead to over-abstraction and resulting saltwater intrusion in coastal areas. Programmes are underway to rehabilitate the networks and bring them back to their original conveyance capacity within a few years. 1 UNECE EPR 2012 44 Micro catchment activities financed by the NRDP included rehabilitation of irrigation networks and construction of water reservoirs. The following are photographs of interventions in the Suçi Commune Figure 16: Water reservoir for irrigation built under NRDP in Suçi Figure 17: Water irrigation drenches built under NRDP in Suçi 45 Figure 18: Water reservoir for irrigation built under NRDP in Suçi Figure 19: Agricultural fields irrigated by NRDP water reservoirs 4.1.7 Biodiversity and Nature Protection1 Throughout recent years Albania has achieved progress and made a major investment in the future protection of its unique natural and landscape as- sets. Pursuant to the main areas of work identified by the 2000 NBSAP, and also as a result of the National Programme of Work on Protected Areas (PoWPA) for the period 2006-2009, the protected area network has been gradually extended. Since 1996 the surface area legally declared as protect- ed areas in Albania has more than tripled from 108,475 ha to 378,748 ha, bringing the total proportion of protected areas in different management cat- 1 UNECE EPR 2012 46 egories to 13.17 per cent in 2011, compared with only 5.7 per cent in 2002. The positive trend is particularly visible for the legal designation of protect- ed areas corresponding to IUCN category II (national parks), category IV (habitat/species management areas) and category V (protected land- scapes/seascapes). However, the designation of new national parks, which currently constitute almost half of Albania’s national ecological network, will not bring positive effects for biodiversity and nature conservation unless these parks are properly managed and sustainably financed, which is not yet the case, taking into account, for example, that management plans for the majority of na- tional parks, including those established almost half of a century ago, are still lacking. In the EC Member States, the presence of habitats and species listed under relevant annexes to the Habitats Directive requires the designation of SACs constituting the Natura 2000 network. Similarly, the effective protection of natural habitats and species of priority importance for the conservation of biological diversity in Albania would require the designation of either nu- merous smaller strictly protected nature reserves, or strict (passive) protec- tion zones of adequate size within the boundaries of, for example, national parks or protected landscapes and seascapes. The identification and delineation of such areas, based on sound scientific field research and nature inventories, is most probably one of the most ur- gent priorities for work during the preparation of protected area manage- ment plans in Albania, in particular for its national parks, which currently constitute half of the country’s ecological network. Three wetland areas in Albania are currently listed as Ramsar sites (Kara- vasta Lagoon, Butrinti wetland complex, and Lake Shkoder and Buna River wetland complex), the total area of which accounts for over 83,000 ha or some 2.9 per cent of the country’s territory. Albania cooperates with Mon- tenegro on the integrated management of Lake Shkoder Managed Nature Reserve and Ramsar site. A similar success story is the cooperation with Greece and the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia on the joint man- agement of the Lake Prespa basin, which has been identified as the potential fourth Ramsar site. 4.1.8 Monitoring of Biodiversity The current status of biodiversity monitoring can be characterized as rather incomplete and fragmented. Several biodiversity monitoring and research programmes are being imple- mented by research institutions contracted for this purpose by MoEFWA, e.g. monitoring of habitats with rare, endemic and threatened plant species and their ex-situ conservation by the botanical gardens, and Monitoring of the Trophic Status of Lagoons by the Faculty of Natural Sciences). 47 The other important institutions involved in biodiversity monitoring are: the Centre of Flora and Fauna Research consisting on the Museum of Natural Sciences and the Botanical Garden and the Biotechnology Department – all above mentioned institutions subordinated to the Faculty of Natural Scienc- es of Tirana University under MoES; and the Forestry Department within the EFA. Most recently, some progress has been achieved with the inventory and mapping of natural and seminatural habitats, the conservation of which, pur- suant to the EC Habitats Directive, requires the designation of special areas of conservation (SACs). The first Red List1 of Albanian Fauna and Flora, published in 2007 and elaborated according to the criteria set up by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), provides information on threatened species present in Albania. According to the more up-to-date information gathered from monitoring re- ports between 2007 and 2009, as many as 46 mammal species (of the newly indicated total of 91 mammal species, thus 50.1 per cent), 115 bird species (of the new total of 330, thus 34.8 per cent), 37 reptile species (100 per cent), 15 amphibian species (100 per cent), 54 fish species (of 311, thus 17.4 per cent), 108 insect species (of 680, thus 15.9 per cent) and 130 mollusc species (of 183, thus 71 per cent) were considered to be threatened on a na- tional scale in Albania. According to MoEFWA data on the main wild fauna species, the popula- tions of protected animal species listed under annex II to the EU Habitats Directive either remain stable or have increased notably in number between 2002 and 2010. On the other hand, a significant decline of game species populations has been noted between 2002 and 2010, in particular for the brown European hare and rock partridge. The latter is a species listed under Annex I to the Birds Directive. Its population has been reduced by over one third over the last eight years, due to either overhunting or poaching. The NRDP and AFP projects had a very positive impact biodiversity in the country, particularly in the increased habitat surface and the improvement of the species living condition. One of the aim of the projects was the protec- tion of natural habitats and biological diversity as the forest offer habitat for to flora and fauna and, depending on their health, vitality and the way it is managed, secures its own perpetuation through the functioning of the forest ecological processes. The forests protection additionally protect the watersheds, maintain and in- crease the populations of important species of plants and animals, provide living laboratories for scientific research and education, improve environ- mental conditions in surrounding areas and maintain cultural values. 1 The IUCN Red list includes Critically Endangered, Endangered and Vulnerable species. 48 The following Table 5 summarizes the present situation for the protected areas network in Albania, Figure 21 shows the Map of the Protected Areas in Albania and Figure 22 shows the monitoring network for biodiversity proposed by the EMP. Table 5: A summary of the present situation for the protected areas network in Albania. Number of % of the total terri- No PA Category Surface (ha) % of PA sites tory 1 Strictly protected area 2 4,800 1.0 0.1 1 National parks 15 210,510.4 45.7 7.4 3 Monuments of nature (a. Bio & geological monu- 740 3,470 0.8 0.1 ment; b. Nature Monument)) 4 4 Managed areas/Nature park 23 127,180.1 27.6 4.4 5 Protected landscape/seascape 5 95,864.4 20.8 3.3 6 Protected resource area 4 18,245.0 4 0.6 Total 799 460,060.9 100% 16.00% Figure 20: Map of protected areas network in Albania Source: MoEFWA 49 Figure 21:Biodiversity Monitoring network Map of protected areas network in Albania proposed by EMP 5. ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS AND MITIGATION ASSESSMENT This Chapter identifies and discusses potential environmental impacts of the activities foreseen by the ESP and proposes possible mitigation measures. Its contents are the basis for the development of the ESMF which is present- ed in Chapter 7. 5.1 Overall Assessment The OECD PSR (Pressure-State-Response) framework, whose outline is de- scribed in Figure 23, states that human activities exert pressures on the en- vironment such as emission of contamination or land use. These pressures can induce changes in the state of the environment (for example, changes in ambient pollutant levels, habitat diversity, water flows, etc.). Society then 50 responds to changes in pressures or state with environmental and economic policies and programs intended to prevent, reduce or mitigate pressures and/or environmental damage. In Albania, the second National Environmental Strategy for the period 2006-2020 (NES2) which was adopted in 2006 followed the sustainable de- velopment concept used in the Driving force–Pressure–State–Impact– Re- sponse (DPSIR) methodology. Figure 22: PSR Framework1 Indicators can be powerful tools to help identify and support PSR relation- ships, both at the reporting stage and subsequently during policy analysis, but need to be well documented and monitored. As discussed previously, environmental monitoring in Albania is presently very limited and fragmented and is being developed mostly through specifi- cally dedicated projects. However, its present scope of work does not cover the whole country and data from the rural areas in basically nonexistent. The following Table 6 indicates proposed sample indicators addressing the main environmental aspects relevant to the ESP Project. Although very lim- ited if any data is available to give them significance, the proposed list may be used as reference for future environmental monitoring developments these are the aspects that should be measured and monitored. Some of these indicators have been also been considered in both the Nation- al Strategy for Development and Integration 2007-2013 and in the 2007 En- vironmental Cross Cutting Strategy . 1 Reference: OECD 51 Table 6: Proposed Sample Environmental PSR Indicators Environmental Aspect Indicator Air Climate Soil and groundwater Occupied land Soil and groundwater Landslides Soil and groundwater Geology Soil and groundwater Soil and groundwater contamination Soil and groundwater Groundwater reserves Soil and groundwater Quality of groundwater and soil Surface water Surface water contamination Surface water Surface water consumption Surface water Surface water reserves Surface water Quality of river water Surface water % population with adequate water facilities Surface water Expenditure for the provision of water services Waste and wastewater Wastewater quality Waste and wastewater Generation of wastewater Waste and wastewater Waste water treatment and disposal Waste and wastewater Municipal waste generation and disposal Natural environment (forests) Impact on forests (forest cover/forest quality Natural environment Impact on natural habitats Natural environment Landscape - Visual impact Natural environment Natural and protected areas Natural environment Flora and fauna Natural environment Land use Natural environment Land erosion phenomenas Natural environment Areas of forests rehabilitated annually Natural environment Area of invasive plant species rehabilitated annually Noise Noise Emissions 5.2 Analysis of Potential Environmental Impacts It is not generally expected that the ESP will have major negative environ- mental impacts, but rather that it will help fight land and watershed degrada- tion through both physical interventions and the empowerment of rural pop- ulation and of local and central institutions. The following are some of the actions foreseen by the ESP that will result in positive environmental im- pacts: - ESP will continue the successful processes of community based re- generation of forests and pasture areas started by the AFP and con- tinued under the NRDP. - Forest and pasture regeneration will fight land degradation an ero- sion issues suffered in large areas of the country. - Interventions focusing on water management (irrigation and flood control) will contribute to both improve livelihoods of rural upland communities and lessen erosion effects. - Development of new income production activities such as sustaina- ble tourism and basic produce processing will be explored with the aim of bringing new resources to the rural communities and allow for the their more sustainable management of their forest and pasto- ral resources. - The effort that will be made to address potential key policy con- straints and capacity building is aimed to drive sustainable develop- ment of the upland areas. 52 The potential environmental impacts (both positive and negative) of each of the presently foreseen interventions foreseen by component of the ESP are briefly summarized in the following sections and listed in detail in a table at the end of this Chapter. As the project activities impact directly on the livelihoods of the local rural communities, particular attention will need to be payed to indirect and cu- mulative impacts of interventions and of potential impacts that may be a consequence of ESP impact on local economies and society. Proposed environmental mitigations corresponding to each of the foreseen activities listed in the table 7 indicating the responsibility for implementa- tion are presented and discussed in the EMF activity Table in Chapter 8. 5.2.1 Air The foreseen impacts of ESP activities on air quality are mostly insignifi- cant. As in the case of the NRDP, the impact on air of sustainable forest and pastures interventions will be in relation to Climate Change through Carbon Sequestration and will mostly be positive impacts. The only potentially negative impact could come from burning of sradicated shrubs resulting from cleaning of abandoned pasture lands as it would re- lease Carbon in the atmosphere. To minimize the impact, the shrubs should be cut and used for household cooking or winter heating. The minor negative impacts on air quality is the dust emissions arising from the activities related to erosion control and prevention such as construction of check dams and fences to protect pasture areas. These impacts will nev- ertheless be minimal and temporary. 5.2.2 Soil and Groundwater A number of the activities foreseen by the ESP are focused on regeneration of forests and of degraded or abandoned pasture lands with the ultimate ob- jective to prevent soil erosion. Only minor environmental impacts on soil and groundwater can be expected from these and examples are the follow- ing: a) Potential minor risk of leakages of fuel/oil due to use of transport vehicles; b) Potential contamination of groundwater if fertilizers and pesticides are used to improve forest health and growth patterns. These issues will successfully be addressed by appropriate tuning and ade- quate leak prevention measures for the vehicles potentially used in the activ- ities and, more importantly, appropriate training of farmers for use of pesti- cides and fertilizers. With particular reference to the issues of chemicals us- age, an Integrated Pesticide Management Plan is a part of the EMF. 5.2.3 Forests The overall impact of the ESP activities will be positive for forests. Poten- tial foreseen environmental impacts include the following: a) Potential increase of grazing and/or harvesting pressure on unprotected areas in case of limiting access on selected areas of forests and pastures. 53 b) Reduction of forest diversity/loss of biodiversity through excessive use of Robinia Pseudoaccacia and Mediterranean pine tree. c) Impoverishment/alteration of soil quality Mitigation measures include ensuring participatory process in the selection of the sites so as to respect everyone’s rights and minimize over- use/overgrazing issues on other areas, monitoring of number of livestock numbers and adequate diversification of species to be used in reforestation interventions. 5.2.4 Surface Water The main foreseen ESP interventions directly impacting surface waters are the ones focusing on the construction and rehabilitation of irrigation net- works, water reservoirs and pumping stations. A specific effort must be made during ESP implementation to ensure that Commune participatory planning must take place at the base of ESP grants allocation to ensure benefits arrive to the weaker parts of the communities. Additional minor environmental impacts may be caused by spillage of po- tentially harmful substances/chemicals during construction, if any are used. Adequate monitoring of used substances and leakage/spillage prevention measures will further minimize these risks. 5.2.5 Biodiversity and Protected Areas As in the case of forests, the overall impact of the ESP activities on protect- ed areas and biodiversity should be positive as its main focus is sustainable forest and pasture management. Potential foreseen negative environmental impacts of which some evidence is available from NRDP implementation include the following: a) Reduction of forest diversity/loss of biodiversity through excessive use of Robinia Pseudoaccacia and Mediterranean pine tree. b) Impoverishment/alteration of soil quality. c) Potential visual/landscape impact due to construction of check dams, fences and other permanent structures. All these potential negative impacts can be minimized by appropriate plan- ning and diversification of species used for reforestation activities and ade- quate choice of the materials to be used for the constructions. Appropriate screening measures are included in the ESP EMF which will also avoid the financing of harmful activities inside Protected Areas. As mentioned at the beginning of this Chapter, the following Table 7 lists all the activities presently foreseen for the ESP giving a short but detailed description of expected potential positive, negative and cumulative envi- ronmental impacts. Activities are subdivided in sections by project compo- nent and impacts are indicated positive/negative or neutral per environmen- tal aspect. To simplify the format of the Table, details of the single activi- ties are given in Annex 5. 54 Table 7: Potential impact and their mitigation Area of Impact Potential Positive impacts Potential Negative impacts Cumulative Impact Project Component and Activity -/ √ negative/positive; x neutral Significance/Risk waste Land degrada- Surface water management Groundwater Waste water Biodiversity Landscape Air quality Change Climate Noise Solid tion Component A – Ipard Like Agri-Environmental Measures A.1 Provision of competitive Details are given in the following cells grants for rural development measures A.2 Implementation of Communal Forestry and Pasture Management Plans (CFPMPs) existing under the NRDP . The following activities can also be included in the Implementation of MicroCatchment Management Plans (Section A3) Forest Protection: ban commu- X X x √ √ √ x x x x -Forest regeneration -potential increased pressure on other forest areas Positive: high nity access to forest -Reduction of soil erosion effects Negative: low -Increased soil moisture retention Cumulative: low - Improved quality, health and productivity of communal forests Silvicultural activities: - - √ √ √ √ x x - - -Forest regeneration Potential impacts on groundwater through use of Positive: high (see details in Annex) -Reduction of soil erosion effects pesticides and fertilisers; Negative: medium -Increased soil moisture retention Potential groundwater contamination issues due to Cumulative: - Improved quality, health and fuel leakages of transport vehicles; low productivity of communal forests Potential noise and dust impact on natural habitat due to usage of transport vehicles: Potential soil erosion issues due to tracts made by transport vehicles. Harvesting and Utilisation: x - √ √ √ √ x x - - Forest regeneration Potential noise and air quality issues due to road Positive: high (see details in Annex) -Reduction of soil erosion effects transport of forest products; Negative: low -Increased soil moisture retention Potential groundwater contamination issues due to Cumulative: low -Improved quality, health and fuel leakages of transport vehicles; productivity of communal forests Potential soil erosion issues due to tracts made by transport vehicles; Afforestation x - √ √ √ √ x x x x Forest regeneration Potential impacts on groundwater through use of Positive: high -(see details in Annex)- -Reduction of soil erosion effects pesticides and fertilisers Negative: low -Increased soil moisture retention Cumulative: low -Improved quality, health and productivity of communal forests 55 Area of Impact Potential Positive impacts Potential Negative impacts Cumulative Impact Project Component and Activity -/ √ negative/positive; x neutral Significance/Risk waste Land degrada- Surface water management Groundwater Waste water Biodiversity Landscape Air quality Change Climate Noise Solid tion Reforestation x - √ √ √ √ - - - - Forest regeneration Potential impacts on groundwater through use of Positive: high (see details in Annex) -Reduction of soil erosion effects pesticides and fertilisers Negative: low -Increased soil moisture retention Cumulative: low -Improved quality, health and productivity of communal forests Seedling Production x - x x √ x x x x x Potential improvement of quality Potential impacts on groundwater through use of Positive: high (see details in Annex) of seedlings and consequent im- pesticides ; Negative: low pact on soil; reduced erosion and Potential transport issues and waste management Cumulative: low increased soil moisture retention; issues related to packing. -Improved quality, health and productivity of communal forests Erosion prevention and control √ √ √ √ √ √ - - - - Reduction of erosion processes; Potential impacts on groundwater through use of Positive: high (other than forestation) Introduction of cultivations varie- fertilisers; Negative: low (see details in Annex) ty. Potential intensification of grazing on adjacent Cumulative: low lands which are not fenced. Protection of degraded pasture x x √ √ x √ x x x x Reduction of erosion process Potential overgrazing issues on other land parcels Positive: high land and newly planted forest by erosion and increased soil mois- Negative: low construction of fences ture retention; Cumulative: low Construction of small erosion √ x √ √ √ √ x x - - Reduction of erosion process. Potential noise and dust impact on natural envi- Positive: high control structures (check dams) ronment during construction and visual impact due Negative: low to permanent structures. Cumulative: low A.3.Preparation of Communal Micro-catchment Plans (CMCPs) A.3. implementation of Communal Micro-catchment Plans (CMCPs) Pasture Protection (fencing) x x √ √ x √ x x - - Reduction of erosion process -Potential overgrazing issues on other land par- Positive: high erosion and increased soil mois- cels; Negative: low ture retention; -Potential noise and dust impact on natural envi- Cumulative: low ronment during construction and visual impact due to permanent structures. - Rehabilitation (cleaning shrubs x x √ √ √ - - x - x Improved pasture lands, less land Potential shrub disposal issues such as burning; Positive: high 56 Area of Impact Potential Positive impacts Potential Negative impacts Cumulative Impact Project Component and Activity -/ √ negative/positive; x neutral Significance/Risk waste Land degrada- Surface water management Groundwater Waste water Biodiversity Landscape Air quality Change Climate Noise Solid tion and rocks) surfaces exposed to overgrazing; Negative: low Cumulative: low Silvopastoral planting x - √ √ √ √ x x x x Improved pasture lands, less land Potential impacts on groundwater if fertilisers and Positive: high surfaces exposed to overgrazing pesticides are used Negative: low Cumulative: low Overseeding to enrich the vege- x - √ √ √ √ x x x x Improved pasture lands, less land Potential impacts on groundwater if fertilisers and Positive: high tation surfaces exposed to overgrazing. pesticides are used Negative: low Cumulative: low Construction of water points for x √ - x √ √ x x x x Improved livestock quality and Potential l impacts on groundwater through gather- Positive: high livestock limitation of grazing areas; ing of livestock; Negative: low Potential permanent visual impact; Cumulative: low Shelter (coral) x - √ √ √ √ x x x x Improved livestock quality and Potential impacts on groundwater through gather- Positive: high limitation of grazing areas ing of livestock Negative: low Cumulative: low Agriculture Reduction of Bareland (aban- X - √ √ √ √ x x x x -Reduce erosion through en- Potential impacts on groundwater if fertilisers and Positive: high doned/refused): hancement of soil cover; pesticides are used and potential consequent risk Negative: medium (see details in Annex) -Increased soil moisture retention to human health from contamination of water sup- Cumulative: low leading to reduced runoff, erosion plies; and flood risk; -Improved soil productivity and stability -Increased rotation will fight soil moisture and nutrients depletion and the build up of weeds, pests and diseases -Produce yield will be increased so as to reduce pressure on mar- ginal lands Appropriate use of marginal x - √ √ √ √ x x x x -Reduce erosion through en- Potential impacts on groundwater if fertilisers and Positive: high agricultural land (private land on hancement of soil cover; pesticides are used and potential consequent risk Negative: medium slope with shallow soils: -Increased soil moisture retention to human health from contamination of water sup- Cumulative: low (see details in Annex) leading to reduced runoff, erosion plies; 57 Area of Impact Potential Positive impacts Potential Negative impacts Cumulative Impact Project Component and Activity -/ √ negative/positive; x neutral Significance/Risk waste Land degrada- Surface water management Groundwater Waste water Biodiversity Landscape Air quality Change Climate Noise Solid tion and flood risk; -Improved soil productivity and stability Increased rotation will fight soil moisture and nutrients depletion and the build up of weeds, pests and diseases -Produce yield will be increased and will reduce pressure on mar- ginal lands Trees on field boundaries x - √ √ √ √ x X x x Reduce erosion through en- Potential impacts on groundwater if fertilisers are Positive: high (see details in Annex) hancement of soil cover; used and potential consequent risk to human Negative: low -Increased soil moisture retention health from contamination of water supplies. Cumulative: low leading to reduced runoff, erosion and flood risk. Small scale irrigation √ √ √ √ √ √ x X x x Increased crop production and Potential risk of community water supply conflicts Positive: high (see details in Annex) diversification, reduced pressure Negative: low on marginal lands. Cumulative: low Planting of vineyards for reve- x - √ √ √ √ x X x x -Reduce erosion through en- Potential impacts on groundwater if fertilisers and Positive: high nue production have an extra hancement of soil cover; pesticides are used and potential consequent risk Negative: medium positive effect of embellishment -Increased soil moisture retention to human health from contamination of water sup- Cumulative: low of the landscape leading to reduced runoff, erosion plies. and flood risk; -Increased revenue from produce Rainfed horticulture x - √ √ √ √ x x x x -Reduce erosion through en- Potential impacts on groundwater if fertilisers and Positive: high fruits/vegetables/forages hancement of soil cover; pesticides are used and potential consequent risk Negative: low -Increased soil moisture retention to human health from contamination of water sup- Cumulative: low leading to reduced runoff, erosion plies. and flood risk; -Increased revenue from produce Irrigated horticulture x - √ √ √ √ x x x x -Reduce erosion through en- Potential impacts on groundwater if fertilisers and Positive: high (fruits/vegetables/forages) hancement of soil cover; pesticides are used and potential consequent risk Negative: low -Increased soil moisture retention to human health from contamination of water sup- Cumulative: low 58 Area of Impact Potential Positive impacts Potential Negative impacts Cumulative Impact Project Component and Activity -/ √ negative/positive; x neutral Significance/Risk waste Land degrada- Surface water management Groundwater Waste water Biodiversity Landscape Air quality Change Climate Noise Solid tion leading to reduced runoff, erosion plies. and flood risk; -Increased revenue from produce Beekeeping x x √ √ √ √ x x x x Enhance crop impollination and Minor visual impact. Positive: high quality; Negative: low Provide produce to increase Cumulative: low community revenue Artificial insemination for cattle x x x √ √ √ - x x x Enhance livestock quality and Potential solid/veterinary waste management is- Positive: high to improve quality in order to reduce grazing pressure on pas- sues Negative: low reduce grazing pressure ture lands; Cumulative: low Promotion of recreational and - x - √ √ √ - - - - Provide potential revenues for the Commercial tourist activities may bring degrada- Positive: high sustainable tourism through communities; tion to habitat; Negative: medium maintenance and rehabilitation Provide access to natural re- Solid waste and waste water management issues; Cumulative: medium of mountain paths and tradition- sources for recreational purposes; Noise/dust issues related to construction works. al houses for accommodations of tourists and trekkers Primary processing of produce - x - √ √ √ - - - - Provide potential revenues for the Commercial activities may bring degradation to Positive: high for sustainable production communities; habitat through mishandling of solid waste and Negative: medium waste water management and use of natural re- Cumulative: medium sources. Component B-Payment for environmental services (PES) B1:Development of appropriate x x x x x - - X x x Green procurement Potential issues of solid waste management/waste Positive: low mechanisms and enabling the water; Negative: low environment for PES Cumulative: low B2: Development of Carbon Sequestration projects Forest Protection: ban commu- x x x √ √ √ x x x x -Forest regeneration -potential increased pressure on other forest areas Positive: high nity access to forest -Reduction of soil erosion effects Negative: low -Increased soil moisture retention Cumulative: low - Improved quality, health and productivity of communal forests Reforestation x - √ √ √ √ - - - - Forest regeneration Potential impacts on groundwater through use of Positive: high 59 Area of Impact Potential Positive impacts Potential Negative impacts Cumulative Impact Project Component and Activity -/ √ negative/positive; x neutral Significance/Risk waste Land degrada- Surface water management Groundwater Waste water Biodiversity Landscape Air quality Change Climate Noise Solid tion (see details in Annex) -Reduction of soil erosion effects pesticides and fertilisers Negative: low -Increased soil moisture retention Cumulative: low -Improved quality, health and productivity of communal forests B3: Development of payment for x x x x x - - x x x Green procurement Potential issues of solid waste management/waste Positive: low watershed services schemes water; Negative: low Cumulative: low Component C- Institutional and Implementation Support and Monitoring C1 Capacity building to stake- √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ Improve local capacities Potential issues of solid waste management/waste holders Institutions water C2 Strengthening good govern- √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ Improve local capacities Potential issues of solid waste management/waste ance water C3 Empowering beneficiaries √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ Improve local capacities Potential issues of solid waste management/waste Positive: medium water; Negative: low Cumulative: medim C4 Project Management and x x x x x - - x x Green procurement Potential issues of solid waste management/waste Positive: low Administration water; Negative: low Cumulative: low 60 6. ANALYSIS OF ALTERNATIVES The following paragraphs present a short discussion of the potential project al- ternatives that were considered during ESP preparation including the ‘zero al- ternative’ scenario which implies the absence of a project. 6.1 ‘Zero Alternative’ Scenario From an environmental point of view, the ‘Zero Alternative’ Scenario in the case of the ESP the objective of which is sustainable management of the coun- try’s forest and pasture resources contributing to a large portion of the popula- tion livelihood, represents a far more negative scenario than its actual imple- mentation. This statement is easily supported by the analysis of the results obtained through the implementation of the AFP and NRDP which are substantiated by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) Forest inventory report (See Section 4.1.3). It is a fact that, as mentioned in Paragraph 4.1.3, the communal forestry com- ponent of the AFP supported natural regeneration and re-growth with the con- struction of 36 km of fence, successful afforestation of some 1,284 ha, clean- ing and/or precommercial thinning of 10,378 ha, and vegetative cutting was carried out on a further 1,578 ha. In following years, the NRDP and later the INRDP, supported the preparation and implementation of Communal Forestry and Pasture Management Plans (CFPMPs) and Communal Micro-Catchment Plans (CMCPs) in 251 com- munes for an additional total of 775,511 ha. If ESP is not implemented less resources will be available to continue the im- plementation of the existing CFPMPs and CMCPs, prepare and implement new CMCPs in new Communes and revised 10 year long CFPMPs whose lifespan is coming to an end in the ESP implementation period. It is important to main- tain the momentum for change in the land use practices, and at the same time to contribute to the long term financial sustainability of integrated rural develop- ment. All benefits that have been generated for both rural communities and natural habitats will slowly come to a stop and land degradation would continue and communities livelihoods will continue to decline with consequences whose impact will be felt country wide. 6.2 Potential Project Alternatives to the ESP The ESP is presently formulated to foresee financing of the Component 1 ac- tivities, mainly implementation of the CFPMPs and the micro-catchment inte- 61 grated resource management plans, through a competitive grant application scheme, whereby the participants and user associations will need to apply competitively for funding. This innovation with respect to the NRDP has been introduced with the objec- tive to stimulate the preparation of technical proposals and business plans, in compliance with the management plans’ objectives and prescriptions, but also, and importantly, financial and business sustainability. This may drive desirable land-use practices and could stimulate the inclusion and participation of vul- nerable groups. On the other hand, financing of the activities foreseen under component 2 and component 3 will not need to undergo any application procedures and will be financed directly. A possible alternative to this scheme is to foresee direct payment also for the activities foreseen by Component 1 cancelling the concept of a competitive grant application. However, it has been considered that the process of competi- tive grants application will stimulate the users association in the design and preparation of better all around activities, from environmental, social and eco- nomic feasibility/sustainability point of view and will enable the PMT to pri- oritize interventions through the evaluation of the single applications and con- sequently optimise the results of the investments being made. It is therefore considered more desirable. Another option is to invest more heavily to afforestation and reforestation un- der component 1 and less in building payment for watershed services under component 2. However, this would not contribute to the long term financial sustainability. Either approach would bring equal benefits to environment. 7. ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN WB OP4.01 foresees that an EMP be prepared in case of Category B projects. In the case of the ESP project, where the contents of project activities is un- known at its offset, but will be identified during implementation, it is foreseen that interventions proposed for grant financing undergo and environmental screening process which will identify both the potential adverse environmental impacts and whether an EMP will be necessary. ESP preparation also foresees the development of an EMF. The identification of all the potential adverse environmental impacts and definition of their miti- gation measures has been done by the EA and have been described in Table 7 and the EMF Table in Annex 1. Based on the experience of NRDP, it is ex- pected that only a restricted number of intervention typologies will be in need of an EMP. 62 In case it is defined that an EMP should be prepared for a proposed interven- tion, its proposal should include both the screening module and the completed EMP which must then get approval from the PMT. An EMP should include the following: a) An outline of the proposed intervention. b) Description of the foreseen adverse environmental impacts: the adverse impacts are identified through the screening process. c) Description of the mitigation measures for each identified adverse envi- ronmental impact, identifying both the cost and institutional responsibility for its implementation. d) Description of a monitoring program of the mitigation measures and of their success in minimising the identified adverse impacts of the imple- mented interventions. Like in the case of the mitigation measures, the monitoring program should identify both the cost and institutional respon- sibility for its implementation. e) Description of the implementation schedules of both mitigation measures and related monitoring plans. Given the limited technical capacities available at the rural community level, the monitoring parameters of the mitigation measures should be simplified as much as possible so as to allow effective monitoring and community involve- ment. It would be preferable to identify common sense parameters rather than technical/scientific ones, and given the nature of the interventions and their ob- jectives these should be easily developed. Examples given for a number of proposed activities are the following: a) Forest protection (forest processes): are animals seen grazing in the pro- tected areas or are people seeing harvesting where they should not? b) Forest regeneration (forest processes): are trees seen to be actually getting stronger or is there some problem with the health of the forest? c) Water irrigation measures: are there problems with the newly implemented irrigation systems? d) Soil erosion measures: are surface waters seen muddier than usual? 7.1 Identification and Description of Adverse Environmental Impacts and Mitigation measures The potential adverse environmental impacts of the interventions that at present can be foreseen for ESP support are listed in the EMF Table of foreseen activi- ties of the ESP which is presented in Annex 1. During the preparation of the EMP, the table should be consulted and the suggested adverse impacts and proposed mitigation measures can be reviewed and confirmed. As explained in Chapter 5, a complete detailed analysis of the foreseen envi- ronmental impact is presented in the Environmental Assessment section and in particular in Table 7. 63 7.2 Definition and Description of a Monitoring Program, Institutional Responsibility and Implementation Schedule Given again the characteristic of the ESP, which foresees that the precise iden- tification of interventions is to take place during project implementation, it will only be possible to define all aspects related to the specific EMP at the time of its preparation. These will include the following: a) Monitoring Program b) Institutional responsibility c) Costs d) Implementation Schedule. A number of examples have been included for each of the foreseen interven- tions in the EMP modules that have been prepared and that are included in An- nex 5 in EMF. These include the cases that have been seen in the Ulza and Baz / Suçi Communes. In addition, a sample EMP preparation exercise was or- ganised in the Commune of Rubik. 7.3 Sample EMP in Rubik Commune On the 20th of August a sample preparation of an EMP was simulated in the Commune of Rubik. Participants included the head of the FPUA, Mr Gjon Presi and Mr Gjeg Deday, from the DFS. The EMP preparation material was also submitted to them and their comments and suggestions in relation to efficient applicability incorporated. The main priorities of the Rubik Commune are erosion issues due to deforestation which was largely caused by acid rains which were a consequence of the presence of a copper smelter which has presently been shut down for the past 25 years. The Rubik Commune was object of a CFMP and interventions on its territory most- ly included reforestation and check dams for erosion controls. The following are photographs of the check dams built in the Rubik territory using rocks that were available locally. Figure 23: The lowest of a Check Dam system 64 Figure 24: Evidence that the check dam, built 5 years ago, has almost reached its full upstream capacity. Figure 25: The check dam seen from upstream 65 Figure 26: A larger check dam near the Bizantine Church. Figure 27: The slope near the check dam with evidence of land slide and reforestation intervention 66 Figure 28: The old copper smelter factory and the River Fan The main adverse environmental impacts foreseen by its construction is the visual impact which has actually been mitigated, as suggested, through the use of rocks found in the stream itself. The main institution who should be respon- sible for EMP design, implementation and monitoring is the DFS and this is motivated by its technical capacities. On the other hand, it was also agreed that all issues related to Social impacts should be dealt by the Commune. Costs for these monitoring activities are not significant as it would be the DFS techni- cians to carry them out. The completed sample EMP is attached in Annex 5 in EMF. 7.4 Estimate of EMP Costs As discussed previously, given the nature of the activities foreseen by the im- plementation of the ESP, it is expected that only a limited number of EMPs will need to be prepared. In the case where and EMP will be needed, it is not expected that installation of monitoring/measurement equipment will be neces- sary, as it will hardly be sustainable, and therefore the EMP installation and monitoring costs will in any case be marginal. 67 Annex 1 List of stakeholders interviewed during field visits July 24th 2013 Ulza Commune: Llesh Lleshi – communal forester Fran Fufi – CFUA Genti Cupi – Diber Regional Coordinator Baz Commune: Fatmir Kurti – MayOr of Bazi commune Rexhep Neli, – CFUA Genti Cupi – Diber Regional Coordinator Suçi Commune: Mazllem Celiku – CFUA Genti Cupi – Diber Regional Coordinator August 19th 2013 Rubik Commune: The head of the FPUA: Mr Gjon Preci, and Mr Gjeg Dedaj, from the Forest Service Directorate For EMP modules, comments were also received from the following persons: Forest Service Directorate, Mirdite: Gjergj Dedaj Regional Coordinator, Elbasan : Jakov Boduri Regional Coordinator, Diber: Genti Cupi 68 Annex 2 Annex I and II of the EIA Law ANNEX I: PROJECTS SUBJECT TO PROFOUND EIA PROCEDURES 1. Crude-oil refineries (excluding undertakings manufacturing only lubricants from crude oil) and installations for the gasification and liquefaction of 500 tonnes or more of coal or bituminous shale per day. 2. Thermal power stations and other combustion installations with a heat output of 20 megawatts or more. 3. Nuclear power stations and other nuclear reactors including the dismantling or decommissioning of such power stations or reactors (except research instal- lations for the production and conversion of fissionable and fertile materials, whose maximum power does not exceed 1 kilowatt continuous thermal load). Nuclear power stations and other nuclear reactors cease to be such an installa- tion when all nuclear fuel and other radioactively contaminated elements have been removed permanently from the installation site. 4. (a) Installations for the reprocessing of irradiated nuclear fuel. (b) Installations designed: i. for the production or enrichment of nuclear fuel, ii. for the processing of irradiated nuclear fuel or high-level radioactive waste, iii. for the final disposal of irradiated nuclear fuel, iv. solely for the final disposal of radioactive waste, v. solely for the storage (planned for more than 10 years) of irradiated nuclear fuels or radioactive waste in a different site than the production site. Integrated works for the initial smelting of cast-iron and steel; Installations for the production of non-ferrous crude metals from ore, concen- trates or secondary raw materials by metallurgical, chemical or electrolytic processes. 5. Installations for the extraction of asbestos and for the processing and trans- formation of asbestos and products containing asbestos: for asbestos-cement products, with an annual production of more than 20 000 tonnes of finished products, for friction material, with an annual production of more than 50 tonnes of finished products, and for other uses of asbestos, utilization of more than 200 tonnes per year. 6. Integrated chemical installations, i.e. those installations for the manufacture on an Industrial scale of substances using chemical conversion processes, in which several units are juxtaposed and are functionally linked to one another and which are: a) for the production of basic organic chemicals; b) for the production of basic inorganic chemicals; 69 c) for the production of phosphorous-,nitrogen-or potassium-based fertilizers (simple or compound fertilizers); d) for the production of basic plant health products and of biocides; e) for the production of basic pharmaceutical products using a chemical or biological process; f) for the production of explosives. 7. (a) Construction of lines for long-distance railway traffic; (b) Construction of airports with a basic runway length of 2 100 m or more. For these purposes “airports” means airports which comply with the definition in the 1944 Chicago Convention setting up the International Civil Aviation Or- ganization (Annex 14).; (c) Construction of motorways and express roads. For these purposes “express road” means a road which complies with the definition in the European Agreement on Main International Traffic Arteries of 15 November 1975; (d) Construction of a new road of four or more lanes, or realignment and/or widening of an existing road of two lanes or less so as to provide four or more lanes, where such new road, or realigned and/or widened section of road would be 10 km or more in a continuous length. 8. (a) Inland waterways and ports for inland-waterway traffic which permit the passage of vessels of over 1 350 tonnes; (b) Trading ports, piers for loading and unloading connected to land and out- side ports (excluding ferry piers) which can take vessels of over 1 350 tonnes. 9. Waste disposal installations for the incineration, chemical treatment under heading D9, or landfill of hazardous waste, as defined in the Law on Integrated Waste Management. 10. Waste disposal installations for the incineration or chemical treatment un- der heading D9 of non-hazardous waste with a capacity exceeding 100 tonnes per day, as defined in the Law on Integrated Waste Management. 11. Groundwater abstraction or artificial groundwater recharge schemes where the annual volume of water abstracted or recharged is equivalent to or exceeds 10 million cubic metres. 12. (a) Works for the transfer of water resources between river basins where this transfer aims at preventing possible shortages of water and where the amount of water transferred ex- ceeds 100 million cubic metres/year; (b) In all other cases, works for the transfer of water resources between river basins where the multi-annual average flow of the basin of abstraction exceeds 2 000 million cubic me- tres/year and where the amount of water transferred exceeds 5 %of this flow. In both cases transfers of piped drinking water are excluded. 70 13. Waste water treatment plants with a capacity exceeding 30 000 population equivalent as defined in the law on water resources. 14. Extraction of petroleum and natural gas for commercial purposes where the amount extracted exceeds 50 tonnes/day in the case of petroleum and 10 000 m3/day in the case of gas. 15. Dams and other installations designed for the holding back or permanent storage of water, where a new or additional amount of water held back or stored exceeds 10 million cubic metres. 16. Pipelines with a diameter of more than 800 mm and a length of more than 40 km: (a) for the transport of gas, oil, chemicals, and (b) for the transport of carbon dioxide (CO2) streams for the purposes of geo- logical storage, including associated booster stations. 17. Installations for the intensive rearing of poultry or pigs with more than: (a) 1 000 places for broilers, 20 000 places for hens; (b) 3 000 places for production pigs (over 30 kg); or (c) 900 places for sows. 18. Industrial plants for the (a) production of pulp from timber or similar fibrous materials; (b) production of paper and board with a production capacity exceeding 50 tonnes per day. 19. Quarries and open-cast mining where the surface of the site exceeds 0.5 hectares, or peat extraction, where the surface of the site exceeds 1 hectares. 20. Construction of overhead electrical power lines with a voltage of 220 kV or more and a length of more than 10 km. 21. Installations for storage of petroleum, petrochemical, or chemical products with a capacity of 50 000 tonnes or more. 22. Storage sites for the geological storage of carbon dioxide, as set out in sep- arate legislation. 23. Installations for the capture of carbon dioxide streams for the purposes of geological storage from installations covered by this Annex, or where the total yearly capture of carbon dioxide is 1.5 mega tonnes or more. 71 ANNEX II PROJECTS SUBJECT TO PRELIMINARY EIA PROCEDURES 1. Agriculture, silviculture and aquaculture a) Projects for the restructuring of rural land holdings; b) Projects for the use of uncultivated land or semi-natural areas for intensive agricultural pur- poses; c) Water management projects for agriculture, including irrigation and land drainage projects; d) Initial afforestation and deforestation for the purposes of conversion to another type of land use; e) Intensive livestock installations (projects not included in Annex I); f) Intensive fish farming; g) Reclamation of land from the sea. 2. Extractive industry 2.1 Quarries, open-cast mining and peat extraction (projects not included in Annex I); 2.2 Underground mining; 2.3 Extraction of minerals by marine or fluvial dredging; 2.4 Deep drillings, in particular:  geothermal drilling,  drilling for the storage of nuclear waste material,  drilling for water supplies, with the exception of drillings for investigating the stability of the soil; 2.5 Surface industrial installations for the extraction of coal, petroleum, natural gas and ores, as well as bituminous shale. 3. Energy industry (a) Industrial installations for the production of electricity, steam and hot water (pro- jects not included in Annex I); (b) Industrial installations for carrying gas, steam and hot water; transmission of elec- trical energy by overhead cables (projects not included in Annex I); (c) Surface storage of natural gas; (d) Underground storage of combustible gases; (e) Surface storage of fossil fuels; (f) Industrial briquetting of coal and lignite; (g) Installations for the processing and storage of radioactive waste (unless included in Annex I); (h) Installations for hydroelectric energy production; (i) Installations for the harnessing of wind power for energy production (wind farms); (j) Installations for the capture of carbon dioxide streams for the purposes of geologi- cal storage from installations not covered by Annex I of this Law. 4. Production and processing of metals (a) Installations for the production of pig iron or steel (primary or secondary fusion) including continuous casting; (b) Installations for the processing of ferrous metals: (i) hot-rolling mills; (ii) smitheries with hammers; (iii) application of protective fused metal coats; (c) Ferrous metal foundries; 72 (d) Installations for the smelting, including the alloyage, of non-ferrous metals, ex- cluding precious metals, including recovered products (refining, foundry casting, etc.); (e) Installations for surface treatment of metals and plastic materials using an electro- lytic or chemical process; (f) Manufacture and assembly of motor vehicles and manufacture of motor vehicle en- gines; (g) Shipyards; (h) Installations for the construction and repair of aircraft; (i) Manufacture of railway equipment; (j) Swaging by explosives; (k) Installations for the roasting and sintering of metallic ores. 5. Mineral industry (a) Coke ovens (dry coal distillation); (b) Installations for the manufacture of cement; (c) Installations for the production of asbestos and the manufacture of asbestos- products (projects not included in Annex I); (d) Installations for the manufacture of glass including glass fibre; (e) Installations for smelting mineral substances including the production of mineral fibres; (f) Manufacture of ceramic products by burning, in particular roofing tiles, bricks, re- fractory bricks, tiles, stoneware or porcelain. 6. Chemical industry (Projects not included in Annex I) (a) Treatment of intermediate products and production of chemicals; (b) Production of pesticides and pharmaceutical products, paint and varnishes, elasto- mers and peroxides; (c) Storage facilities for petroleum, petrochemical and chemical products. 7. Food industry (a) Manufacture of vegetable and animal oils and fats; (b) Packing and canning of animal and vegetable products; (c) Manufacture of dairy products; (d) Brewing and malting; (e) Confectionery and syrup manufacture; (f) Installations for the slaughter of animals; (g) Industrial starch manufacturing installations; (h) Fish-meal and fish-oil factories; (i) Sugar factories. 8. Textile, leather, wood and paper industries (a) Industrial plants for the production of paper and board (projects not included in Annex I); (b) Plants for the pre-treatment (operations such as washing, bleaching, mercerization) or dyeing of fibres or textiles; (c) Plants for the tanning of hides and skins; (d) Cellulose-processing and production installations. 9. Rubber industry Manufacture and treatment of elastomer-based products 10. Infrastructure projects 73 (a) Industrial estate development projects; (b) Urban development projects, including the construction of shopping centres and car parks; (c) Construction of railways and intermodal trans-shipment facilities, and of intermod- al terminals (projects not included in Annex I); (d) Construction of airfields (projects not included in Annex I); (e) Construction of roads, harbours and port installations, including fishing harbours (projects not included in Annex I); (f) Inland-waterway construction not included in Annex I, canalization and flood- relief works; (g) Dams and other installations designed to hold water or store it on a long term basis (projects not included in Annex I); (h) Tramways, elevated and underground railways, suspended lines or similar lines of a particular type, used exclusively or mainly for passenger transport; (i) Oil and gas pipeline installations and pipelines for the transport of carbon dioxide streams for the purposes of geological storage (projects not included in Annex I); (j) Installations of long-distance aqueducts; (k) Coastal work to combat erosion and maritime works capable of altering the coast through the construction, for example of dykes, moles, jetties and other sea defence works, excluding the maintenance and reconstruction of such works; (l) Groundwater abstraction and artificial groundwater recharge schemes not included in AnnexI; (m) Works for the transfer of water resources between river basins not included in Annex I. 11. Other projects (a) Permanent racing and test tracks for motorized vehicles; (b) Installations for the disposal of waste (projects not included in Annex I); (c) Waste-water treatment plants (projects not included in Annex I); (d) Sludge-deposition sites; (e) Storage of scrap iron, including scrap vehicles; (f) Test benches for engines, turbines or reactors; (g) Installations for the manufacture of artificial mineral fibres; (h) Installations for the recovery or destruction of explosive substances; (i) Knackers’ yards. 12. Tourism and leisure (a) Ski-runs, ski-lifts and cable-cars and associated developments; (b) Marinas; (c) Holiday villages and hotel complexes outside urban areas and associated develop- ments; (d) Permanent camp sites and caravane sites; (e) Theme parks. 74 Annex 3 Details of main EU Directives relevant to ESP EU DIRECTIVES RELATIVE TO ESP Habitats Directive19 The Habitats Directive is a main tool of Europe's nature conservation policy. Its main aim is to promote the maintenance of its biodiversity through the con- servation of its natural habitats of wild flora and fauna. It promotes the estab- lishment of an ecological network of sites of Community interest (Special Are- as of Conservation), known as the ‘Natura 2000’ network whose habitats and species are maintained at a ‘favourable conservation status’. The Directive requires the following from Member States:  Identify and designate Special Areas of Conservation (SACs), and implement measures to protect habitats and species within and beyond them. The measures are to correspond to the ecological requirements of the natural habitat types indicated in Annex I of the Di- rective and the species listed in Annex II that are contained within the sites (Article 6.1).  Implement a series of measures to establish a system of strict protection for the species listed in Annex IV (a) of the Directive.  Take the appropriate measures to establish a system of strict protection for the plant spe- cies listed in Annex IV (b) of the Directive.  Carry out a number of monitoring activities relating to the implementation of the Directive. The key tasks required to implement this directive are summarised in the fol- lowing Table 1.1a Table 1.1a Habitats Directive - Key Implementation Tasks Phase Tasks Planning 1. Establish or delegate a competent authority to be responsible for implementing the requirements of the directive. 2. On the basis of the criteria set out in Annex III, the competent authority should identify a suite of sites. 3. In agreement with the Commission, Member States must designate the SACs and establish priorities for the management of these sites. 4. The SACs to be selected are to include the full range of indigenous species, in par- ticular habitat types listed in Annex I and habitats of the species listed in Annex II. Regulation 1. For the designated sites, establish the necessary conservation measures which will meet the ecological requirements of the natural habitat types in Annex I and the 19 http://ec.europa.eu/environment/nature/legislation/habitatsdirective/ 75 species in Annex II. 2. Maintain the wildlife population at appropriate levels, taking into account scientific and cultural requirements. 3. Take the necessary measures to establish a system of strict protection for the animal species listed in Annex IV (a) in their natural range. In particular, prohibit the de- liberate capture or killing of specimens of these species in the wild. 4. For the listed species, prohibit the keeping, transport and sale or exchange, and of- fering for sale or exchange, of specimens taken from the wild, except for those tak- en legally before this directive is implemented. 5. Establish a system of strict protection for the plant species listed in Annex IV (b). 6. Where deemed necessary ensure that the taking and exploitation of certain species of wild plants and animals (listed in Annex V) is controlled to ensure that they are maintained at a ‘favourable conservation status’ (Art. 14). 7. Prohibit the use of specified means of capture and killing certain animal species (listed in Annexes IV and V) (Art. 15 and Annex VI). 8. Regulate the deliberate introduction of non-native wildlife species, so as to protect the native populations. 9. Take steps to prevent deterioration of SACs and the disturbance of species for which they were created. 10. Assess any plans or projects that is likely to have a significant effect on the SAC network and prohibit plans or projects that would adversely affect the integrity of the sites (Art. 6). Monitoring 1. Establish a system to monitor the incidental capture and killing of the animal spe- and Re- cies listed in Annex IV (a) and ensure that capture or killing activities do not have a search significant effect on the species concerned. 2. Establish a monitoring system covering all of the monitoring activities required in the directive. 3. Encourage the necessary research and information exchange necessary to achieve the objectives of the Directive. 4. Where necessary, continue monitoring and surveillance after control of the taking and exploitation of certain species of wild plants and animals to ensure that they are maintained at a ‘favourable conservation status’. 5. Study the desirability of re-introducing native species where this might contribute to their conservation. Information 1. Report to the Commission, as appropriate on the following: and Report- ing  Sites that host natural habitat types and species listed in Annexes I and II;  Nomination of sites and designation of SACs;  Cases of derogations from specified requirements of the Directive (every two 76 years);  Results of scientific investigations and research (Art. 18);  Estimates relating to possible co-financing by the Community (Art. 8);  Implementation of the Directive (Art. 17);  The implementation of measures taken under the Directive (every six years) (Art. 23);  Transposition, adopted in the field covered by the Directive (Art. 23). 2. Consult the public before: agreeing to a plan or project that is likely to have a sig- nificant effect on an SAC (Art. 6); and re-introducing native species (Art. 22). 3. Promote education and general information on species protection and conservation (Art. 22). Source: Handbook on the Implementation of EC Environmental Legislation (2003) o Birds Directive20 The Directive on the conservation of wild birds (this is the codified version of Directive 79/409/EEC as amended) is the EU’s oldest piece of nature legisla- tion and one of the most important, creating a comprehensive scheme of pro- tection for all wild bird species naturally occurring in the Union. Its was adopt- ed unanimously by the Members States in 1979 as a response to increasing concern about the declines in Europe's wild bird populations resulting from pollution, loss of habitats as well as unsustainable use. It was also in recogni- tion that wild birds, many of which are migratory, are a shared heritage of the Member States and that their effective conservation required international co- operation. The directive recognises that habitat loss and degradation are the most serious threats to the conservation of wild birds. It therefore places great emphasis on the protection of habitats for endangered as well as migratory species (listed in Annex I), especially through the establishment of a coherent network of Spe- cial Protection Areas (SPAs) comprising all the most suitable territories for these species. Since 1994 all SPAs form an integral part of the NATURA 2000 ecological network. The Birds Directive bans activities that directly threaten birds, such as the de- liberate killing or capture of birds, the destruction of their nests and taking of their eggs, and associated activities such as trading in live or dead birds, with a few exceptions (listed in Annex III - III/1 allows taking in all Member States; III/2 allows taking in Member States in agreement with European Commis- sion). The Directive recognises hunting as a legitimate activity and provides a 20 http://ec.europa.eu/environment/nature/legislation/birdsdirective/ 77 comprehensive system for the management of hunting (limited to species listed in Annex II - II/1 allows hunting in all Member States; II/2 allows hunting in listed Member States ) to ensure that this practice is sustainable. This includes a requirement to ensure that birds are not hunted during the periods of their greatest vulnerability, such as the return migration to the nesting areas, repro- duction and the raising of chicks. It requires Member States to outlaw all forms of non-selective and large scale killing of birds, (especially the methods listed in Annex IV). It promotes research to underpin the protection, management and use of all species of birds covered by the Directive (Annex The main requirements of implementation of the Directive are listed in the fol- lowing Table 1.2a. Table 1.2a Birds Directive - Key Implementation Tasks Phase Tasks Planning 1. Establish or delegate a competent authority to be responsible for implementation of the requirements of the directive. 2. The competent authority should develop a system to protect all birds in the wild state. 3. The competent authority should identify and designate SPAs - areas that are im- portant to rare or vulnerable bird species listed in Annex I of the directive and those used by migrating species, with particular reference to wetlands (either inland or coastal, such as estuaries) and especially wetlands of international importance, ac- cording to the criteria in the directive. 4. Ensure that the competent authority is consulted under the EIA Directive (85/337.EEC) for proposals significantly affecting SPAs. Regula- 1. Take the necessary measures to maintain bird populations at appropriate levels, tion taking into account scientific and cultural requirements. 2. Take special conservation measures for the species listed in Annex I and for regu- larly occurring migratory species, especially those dependent on wetlands of inter- national importance. 3. For each SPA, take actions to ensure appropriate management and to avoid deterio- ration of sites and their habitats and disturbance of species. 4. Establish a general system to protect all listed bird species referred to in Article 1, including protection from disturbance, keeping, killing and capture and, protection of their habitat in accordance with the requirements of the directive. 5. Prohibit any activities relating to sale except those species listed in Annex III. This protection also extends to eggs and nests. 6. Ensure that hunting of species listed in Annex II is carried out in accordance with the provisions of Articles 7 and 8 and ensure the management of bird populations. 7. Ensure that any derogations from Art. 5-8 allowed under Art. 9 are specified in ac- 78 cordance with the Directive are subject to an annual review by the Commission. 8. Ensure that the introduction of non native species of birds does not adversely affect local flora and fauna. 9. Assess any plan or project that either by itself or in combination with other plans or projects is likely to have a significant effect on an SPA. 10. Carry out remedial measures to maintain or enhance the ecological value of SPAs, should monitoring indicate that there has been any deterioration in habitat quality and/or value to bird species listed in Annex I. Monitoring 1. Encourage specific research and scientific study to support the protection of desig- and Re- nated sites and bird species. Particular attention should be paid to the subjects listed search in Annex V. 2. Establish a monitoring system covering the spectrum of activities within the di- rective. The monitoring should include: assessment of population levels of Annex I species; ecological value and integrity of SPAs; and effectiveness of mechanisms to prevent undue harmful activities to bird species listed in Annex II. 3. Monitor compliance with the conditions relating to the marketing of wild birds, the effect of hunting on conservation efforts and the effect of introducing non-native species. Consultation 1. Consult with the public before agreeing to a plan or project that is likely to have a and Report- significant effect on an SPA. ing 2. Consult with the Commission about the introduction of non-native species of birds. 3. Report to the Commission, as appropriate on the following:  Transposition and implementation of the Directive;  Designation of Special Protection Areas (SPAs);  The practical application of hunting regulations;  Derogations from the provisions of the Directive;  Measures taken to comply with the directive;  Research activities;  Compensatory measures adopted according to Article 6 habitats Di- rective; and  Transpositions of national law adopted in the field covered by the Di- rective. Source: Handbook on the Implementation of EC Environmental Legislation (2003) 79 o The Water Framework Directive (WFD)21 The principal objective of the WFD is for all water bodies of the EU to be of “good ecological and good chemical status” by 2015, unless there are signifi- cant reasons for derogation. Classification is carried out through analysis of both biological and physical-chemical elements. Main requirements of the Directives include the following:  Preventing further deterioration and protecting and enhancing the status of aquatic ecosys- tems and associated wetlands;  Promoting the sustainable consumption of water;  Specific controls for high risk pollutants, so called Priority Hazardous Substances;  Contributing to the mitigating effects of floods and droughts. In relation to groundwater quality the directive takes a precautionary approach and states that no deterioration in status should occur. Groundwaters are clas- sified dependent on quantity and chemical quality as either being of “good” status or “poor” status. In the case of the latter the directive specifies that bod- ies should be restored to “good” status where technically feasible and without entailing disproportionate costs. The WFD states that the entry of pollutants to groundwater must be either prevented or in certain cases limited. In relation to quantity of groundwater the WFD stipulates that abstractions from groundwater must not exceed a sustainable level. Of the annual ground- water recharge a certain level is needed to support connected ecosystems es- sential functions. To be sustainable, abstractions from groundwater must not infringe on the groundwater recharge used for this ecosystem maintenance. The WFD is innovative in providing a framework for integrated management of groundwater and surface water. The key tasks required to implement this directive are summarised below. Table 1.3a Water Framework Directive – Key Implementation Tasks Phase Tasks Planning 1. Identify river basins and assign them to individual river basin districts. 2. Assign groundwater bodies to river basin districts. 3. Assign coastal waters to river basin districts. 4. Establish competent authorities, using either existing structures or creating new ones, and establish administrative arrangements to ensure that the directive is im- 21 http://ec.europa.eu/environment/water/water-framework/ 80 plemented effectively within River Basin Districts. 5. The competent authority should make institutional arrangements to enable it to fulfil its implementation tasks, such as planning, monitoring and enforcing the re- quirements of the directive. 6. The competent authority should undertake a review of the characteristics of the river basin using methods set out in the WFD. 7. The competent authority should assess the impact of human activity in the river basin. 8. Assess all relevant and available information on industrial discharges, dangerous substances and wastewater discharges and plants. 9. Collect information on the extent and location of diffuse sources of pollution, in particular from agriculture. 10. Using data already available, identify waters that are affected by pollution. 11. Assemble data on water abstracted for drinking water, agricultural, industrial and other uses. 12. In collaboration with water suppliers, the competent authority should identify all existing and potential surface waters and groundwaters which are used or intend- ed to be used as drinking water abstractions in each river basin. 13. The competent authority should undertake an economic analysis of water use in- cluding abstraction for drinking water, waste water discharges, forecasts of sup- ply and demand and trends, and assessment of infrastructure needs. 14. Set up a register of protected areas in each river basin district., protected areas all being specified in the Directive, including those under EU nature protection legis- lation. Co-operation and co-ordination must be arranged between competent au- thorities, particularly those responsible for managing the protected areas. 15. Put in place arrangements to update the review of the river basin characteristics at 6 yearly intervals and other reviews. 16. Having gathered the relevant data, establish environmental objectives to apply in the river basin. 17. Within the defined river basins, establish the four basic types of surface water systems as rivers, lakes, estuaries and coastal, and assess the ecological status of each according to the range of physico-chemical, biological and hydromorpholog- ical characteristics as defined in the directive. 18. Place each body of water into one of three classes high quality, good quality and poor quality by comparing the data with historical information for the site con- cerned or for a similar site. 19. As there are few sites in Europe which are unaffected by anthropogenic activity, the Directive sets out criteria for establishing similar eco-types based on a number of natural parameters. 81 20. For groundwater, the quantitative status must be assessed by comparing variations in groundwater levels with associated rates of recharge and abstraction (both nat- ural and artificial) in order to ascertain that the rate of abstraction does not exceed the long-term available resource. In addition, the chemical status of groundwater should be monitored. 21. Identify waters that, due to their natural condition will not achieve good water quality although all measures to improve them as identified in the river basin plan have been taken. 22. Identify specific bodies of water for which less stringent environmental objectives must be set. Include these objectives in the river basin plan. 23. Establish a programme of measures, as part of river basin plans containing infor- mation as set out in Annex VII to achieve the environmental objectives of the di- rective and other measures decided as necessary by the competent authority. 24. River basin plans may be supplemented by more detailed local action plans for particular aspects or for parts of the river network. 25. Establish a system of public consultation on river basin management plans which allows public access to draft copies of the plan at least one year prior to the start date, allowing 6 months for public comments to be received in writing. 26. Once public comments have been taken into account, a final plan must be pub- lished. 1. M The competent authority must establish a monitoring programme to determine o water status. Annex V specifies the detailed monitoring and assessment criteria. n 2. i Designate monitoring sites according to Annex V, and monitor identified sites for t parameters listed in Annex V. o r  The results of monitoring must be presented as: i  Biological: a numerical value representing departure from the refer- n ence conditions of the site; g  Chemical: a quality classification as "good quality " or "ailing to a achieve good quality"; n d  Ecological: high quality, good quality, fair quality, poor quality or bad quality. These results must be presented on a map. E 3. n The competent authority / national agency will have to ensure that there is an ex- f change of biological data between the Member States to build up a set of data rep- o resenting a selection of ecotype sites to be known as the intercalibration network. r 4. c Prepare emergency plans to respond to incidents and take restorative actions after e pollution has occurred. Preventative measures should be identified. Risk assess- m ment should be an integral part of the plans. e n 82 t Selection 1. The competent authority should prepare a financial plan to provide water pricing and Imple- policies for cost recovery for services provided for water users. mentation of Econom- 2. The cost recovery system adopted must, however, allow for an affordable domes- ic Instru- tic water supply. Exemptions for payments may be granted within the river basin ments plan. Investigations should be undertaken to assess what is affordable for water consumers in the Candidate Country. 3. Exemptions from application of such water pricing policies may be granted pro- vided this does not compromise the purpose and achievement of the objectives of the Directive, but the reasons for the same must be explained in the river basin plan. Consulta- 1. The Government should establish contact with other countries whose river basins tion and Re- cross international boundaries. A jointly-run international River Basin Authority porting should be sought to be set up where necessary, if this is feasible. 2. The competent authority must organise suitable consultation mechanisms in order for the public to see and comment upon the river basin plans. 3. A reporting and recording system should be established on both a river basin and a national level with the associateddata bases to enable reports to be made to the public and to the Commission. 4. The competent authority must send copies of plans and programmes to the Com- mission. 5. Report to the Commission on:  River basin districts, including assigned groundwaters and coastal waters  Assignment details of the competent authorities;  Issues which fall outside the competence of the competent authorities but which affect water  management;  River basin plans for whole river basins;  Programmes and plans dealing with sub-basins, particular water is- sues or particular water classes or ecosystems;  Plans covering parts of international river basins. Source: Handbook on the Implementation of EC Environmental Legislation (2003) 83 22 o Council Regulation 1698/2005 The Council Regulation on Rural Development (RDR) sets essential rules gov- erning rural development policy for Member States for the period 2007 to 2013, as well as the policy measures available to them. Under this Regulation, rural development policy for 2007 to 2013 is focused on three themes (known as "thematic axes"). These are:  improving the competitiveness of the agricultural and forestry sector;  improving the environment and the countryside;  improving the quality of life in rural areas and encouraging diversification of the rural economy. To help ensure a balanced approach to policy, Member States and regions are obliged to spread their rural development funding between all three of these thematic axes. A further requirement is that some of the funding must support projects based on experience with the Leader Community Initiatives. The "Leader approach" to rural development involves highly individual projects designed and executed by local partnerships to address specific local problems. As before 2007, every Member State (or region, in cases where powers are del- egated to regional level) must set out a rural development programme, which specifies what funding will be spent on which measures in the period 2007 to 2013. A new feature for 2007 to 2013 is a greater emphasis on coherent strategy for rural development across the EU as a whole. This is being achieved through the use of National Strategy Plans which must be based on EU Strategic Guide- lines. This approach should help to:  identify the areas where the use of EU support for rural development adds the most value at EU level;  make the link with the main EU priorities (for example, those set out under the Lisbon and Göteborg agendas);  ensure consistency with other EU policies, in particular those for economic cohesion and the environment;  assist the implementation of the new market-oriented CAP and the necessary restructuring it will entail in the old and new Member States. 22 http://ec.europa.eu/agriculture/rurdev/ 84 o New EU Draft Forest Strategy23 A new EU Forest Strategy has been discussed in the last few years and is ex- pected to be finalised and approved by the end of 2013. The draft EU Forest Strategy aims to achieve "long-term multifunctional and sustainable forestry and innovative forest sector in compliance with the follow- ing objectives: - fully contributes to Europe 2020 Strategy and other 2020 targets, - fulfils present and future social, economic and environmental needs, - supports forest-related livelihoods The Strategy should contribute to developing at the EU level the vision of Eu- ropean Forests 2020 of the pan- European Forest Europe process: "To shape a future where all European forests are vi- tal, productive and multifunctional. Where forests contribute effectively to sustainable development, through en- suring human wellbeing, a healthy environment and economic development in Europe and across the globe. Where the forests’ unique potential to support a green economy, livelihoods, climate change mitigation, biodiver- sity conservation, enhancing water quality and combating desertification is realised to the benefit of society. " The mission of the EU Forest Strategy should be "to underpin well-coordinated and coherent forest-related policies at EU, international and national levels, and the conditions necessary for safeguarding and enhancing the sustainable management and use of forests and their multiple goods and services". The Strategy should aim to sustainable management of forests by 2020 , and thus: contribute to balancing the different forest functions and meeting demands, provide a basis for forestry and the whole forest-based value chain to be competitive and viable con- tributors to the green economy. 23 http://ec.europa.eu/agriculture/fore/publi/sfc_wg7_2012_full_en.pdf 85 Annex 4 Details of activities of Environmental Impacts Evaluation Table Silvicultural activities: clearing (first thining), marking stems to be removed, cutting, removing cut material from forest; pruning;forest fire prevention and control, fire breaks;fertilizing; pest management (forest health). Harvesting and Utilisation: -thinning (second thinning): marking, cutting, forest transport, storage (landing operations), road transport; harvesting mature timber: marking, cutting, forest transport, storage (landing operations), road transport. Afforestation: planning:site selection, species selection; site preparation: weeding, pitting, soil preparation; planting/sowing;-irrigation,-weeding,pest control, checking survival rate Reforestation: Natural regeneration; Assisted natural regeneration - Gap Planting: planning:site selection, species selection; site preparation: weeding, pitting, soil preparation; planting/sowing; irrigation; weeding; pest control; Checking survival rate - Direct sowing: planning:site selection, species selection; site preparation: weeding, pitting, soil preparation; planting/sowing; weeding; pest control; Checking survival rate Seedling Production: seed collection, soil preparation, sowing, watering, spraying for pests, weed control, packing, transport. Erosion prevention and control (other than forestation): planning:site se- lection; gully control, planting other than tree species. Reduction of bareland (abandoned/refused): Preparing land (initial plowing, leveling), marking, digging holes; planting seedlings or rootstocks; applying fertilizer; establishing trellis posts; Planting of fruit trees, medicinal plants for family/communal consumption and revenue; Planting of alfa alfa for forage Appropriate use of marginal agricultural land (private land on slope with shallow soils: Preparing land (initial plowing, leveling), marking, digging holes; planting seedlings or rootstocks; applying fertilizer; establishing trellis posts; making pocket terraces; pruning; supplying and applying pesticides; harvesting. Trees on field boundaries: Preparing land; marking, digging holes, planting seedlings, applying fertilizer. Small scale irrigation: Construction of water reservoirs for irrigation and re- habilitation/repairs of irrigation canals/pumping stations 86 Environmental and Social Management Framework 1. INTORODUCTION This Document describes the Environmental Management Framework (EMF) which has been developed for the ESP to be applied to the small grants pro- gram and for the project activities that are not known prior to project Appraisal. The EMF is an integral component of ESP implementation and must be made into an active tool during the planning of interventions for which financing will be requested and preparation of application forms. It will then need to be used again during preparation of the Management Plans and its tools to be included. Particular attention was given to the lessons learnt from the implementation of the NRDP EMF. These are the following: - Simplify screening checklists - Include Screening checklists in Guidelines for Management Plans - Include Environmental Expert in PMT - Include environmental expert support/training for application of EMF screening checklists - Include Pesticide Management Plan in EMSF - Include Fire prevention measures - Improve monitoring mechanisms of environmental mitigation imple- mentation For this reason, involvement of the people who will be implementing the ESP EMF in future was sought in order to make the screening tools as user friendly as possible. The institutional responsibility framework and the different screening instruments are described in the following paragraphs. As Operation- al Policy 4.09 on pesticide management was triggered, an Integrated Pest Man- agement Plan was also prepared as part of the EMF and is described in detail in a separate section. 1.1 Environmental and Social Screening Process All intervention applications under ESP must be screened for potential envi- ronmental and social impacts by the implementing agencies. In order to facili- tate and make this process possible, a number of tools and procedures have been prepared. These include the following: - A list of all foreseen interventions and of their potential social and envi- ronmental impacts has been prepared and is presented in Annex 1 - An Environmental and Social Checklist Questionnaire to be applied to all the grants scheme Annex 2. - An Environmental Field Appraisal Form to be applied in the case the re- sults of the application of the Screening Questionnaire indicate that a more in depth assessment of the proposed intervention is needed Annex 3. 1 - An Environmental Management Plan form Annex 4 to be prepared in case the Screening Questionnaire or the Field Appraisal Form indicate that an EMP is needed, - A completed EMP carried out in the community of Rubik to be used as ex- ample is presented in Annex 5, - An Annual Environmental Audit form to guide annual environmental and social assessment of all financed interventions Annex 6) All tools indicate the parties/stakeholders responsible for preparation. Addi- tional details of the specific impacts of all the interventions, if needed, are pro- vided in Table 7 in the EA Report. 1.2 Outline of the Screening Process The communities will develop their management plans (new communes) and grant applications. At this stage, the team working on the development of the plan should be referring to the EMF activities tables and be using it as a guide for a correct environmental and social design of the MC plan and/or activity. Early effective environmental and social screening of the foreseen interven- tions will drive the environmental analysis process in helping to plan the Avoidance, Prevention and Minimisation of adverse effects sometimes just by avoiding certain works and /or site locations. The following Figure 30 outlines the screening process. Figure 29: Process of environmental screening in ESP MC plans Develop- ment and Grant Application 2 1.3 Institutional Framework for the EMF of the ESP The following Figure 31 shows the proposed institutional framework for the implementation of the EMF of the ESP. Operative functions related to the EMF are the responsibility of Ministry of Environment, Forestry Sector which should include an environmental expert. Ministry of Agriculture, ARDA is responsible for screening grant applications. An annual Environmental Performance Audit will be carried out by an inde- pendent Consultant with the collaboration of the Regional Environmental Agencies and under the supervision of the Ministry of the Environment. The following Table 8 summarises the foreseen EMF activities and related re- sponsibilities which are also indicated in the EMF Table of activities and fore- seen impacts in Annex 1. Table 8: Foreseen EMF activities and related responsibilities Planned EMF Activities Responsibility Outputs Screening of activities by applying Commune/PC/Forest Sector with Compiled EMF screening EMF check lists (Annex 2) and, if support of regional Environmental forms and planning of Envi- required, field appraisal form (Annex Agency and Extension Services ronmental mitigation practic- 3) when preparing new Integrated es to be included in Man- Microcatchment Management Plans agement Plans and when implementing existing Management Plans Compiled EMF screening Screening of activities when prepar- Applicant forms and planning of Envi- ing grants applications ronmental mitigation practic- es to be included in grants applications Monitoring of environmental mitiga- FPUAs/Commune forestry ex- Activities and performance tion practices included in Manage- perts/Regional Environmental Agency reports (Compliance or non ment Plans (Annex 4 and 5) with Consultant support compliance to MPs prescrip- tions) Annual Auditing activities (Annex 6) Consultant Services Annual audit reports Trainings/Workshops Forest sector/PC/Consultant Services Training 1.4 Annual Environmental Performance Audit The EMF foresees that an annual environmental performance audit will be conducted by an independent organisation, in order to assess overall compli- ance with EMF procedures and ensure that environmental management and the implementation of mitigation measures are part of the ESP implementation. It should also identify potential criticalities in order to fine tune future EMF per- formance. The annual audit should include the following tasks: 3 - Review of the paper trail of screening checklists and reports and check its significance with respect to the implemented activities; - On the basis of this review, select a number of sub-projects for field visits to investigate compliance with proposed mitigation measures, and identification of potential impacts that are not being adequately dealt with; - Recommend practical improvements to the EMF screening checklists in order to fine-tune the operation of the EMF based on practical experi- ence; - Discuss ESP activities in with the PMT, Regional Coordinators and se- lected FPUAs representatives - Assess the needs for further training and capacity building and make recommendations. The Annual Audit report should include the following: - A review of the sub-projects (i) screened for environmental impacts, (ii) provided with technical advice from Regional Coordinators, (iii) further assessed, (iv) implemented with an EMP, - Description of the actual operation of the EMF as it has occurred in practice - Identification of environmental risks that are not being fully addressed or mitigated, - Screening of potential cumulative environmental impacts, - Recommendations for improvement and strengthening the performance of the EMF. In the case of the ESP, it is expected that cumulative environmental impacts are not significant. An evaluation of these is made in the last column of Table 5 of detailed environmental assessments. The annual audits will provide the GoA with important information in relation to environmental performance of the ESP and its implementation and it will give indications in relation to the possibility of improving it. It is recommended that the Regional Environment Agencies (REA) actively participate in the audits and all local training and awareness raising activities in order to gain first-hand experience of the identification and management of key environmental issues. 1.5 Training and Capacity Building for EMF Implementation The successful implementation of the EMF and if the environmental mitigation measures of the ESP depend entirely on the level of attention and competence of the local stakeholders who shall be involved in the various activities. Although training and capacity building activities have been ongoing in both the AFP and NRDP projects, turnover of personnel in the various organizations may somewhat have hindered the capacity building process. It would be useful if a certain degree of continuity be kept in the management of the implementa- 4 tion activities as long term sustainability of the ESP is dependent on the capaci- ty of communities and local and national authorities to carry out the associated design, planning, approval and implementation of the management plans and of their environmental screening. 1.5.1 Environmental Training and Awareness Raising As an innovation with respect to the NRDP, it is recommended that an envi- ronmental expert is to be included in the PMT to ensure adequate environmen- tal screening and environmental impacts mitigation measures design. Given that capacity building and training has already been undertaken by the NRDP, a needs assessment would be highly recommendable to ensure ade- quately targeted training. Targets should include the Regional Coordinators, the Forest and Agriculture Extension Services, the Regional Environmental Agencies, ARDA and the communities themselves. The following Table 9 contains recommendations of the contents and level of training for the various actors involved in the EMF ESP implementation. Table 9: Recommended training requirements Training Requirement PMT Envi- Regional Environment FPUAs ronmental Agencies/ Communal Specialist and forest/agricultural ex- RCs perts/Extension ser- vices EIA law, relevant environ- T T A mental policies Use of the EMF T T T Potential localised impacts of T T A foreseen interventions and mitigation measures Supervision, monitoring and T T A evaluation of foreseen activi- ties implementation Exchange of information be- T T A tween different implementa- tion regions The level of recommended training is the following: T= In -depth training, to a level that allows trainees to go on to train others, in- cluding technical procedures where relevant; A= Awareness-raising in which the participants acknowledge the significance or relevance of the issues, but are not required to have technical or in-depth knowledge. 5 1.6 Estimated Costs for the EMF The activities related to EMF implementation which are summarized in Table 7 are part of the day-to-day activities of project staff, and so should not involve any incremental costs to the project. However, activities that will probably need a dedicated budget to provide for qualified trainers are indicated in the following Table 10. Table 10: Foreseen EMF Activities with potential costs Target audience Training Contents Duration Frequency PMT environmental expert, -Knowledge of natural resources Two day workshop in Annual Regional Coordinators, management and environmental the first year; one issues; day refresher in the -Application of the EMF: use of following years screening checklists, knowledge of mitigation measures -IPMP application Community stakeholders  Use of the screening checklist Ongoing during par- Throughout the project  Mitigation measures implementa- ticipatory planning of tion for interventions and their MC plans and grant monitoring application prepara- tion Regional Environment  Training on EMF implementation: On the job training During grant and MC Agencies/Extension Ser- screening, mitigation and environ- for EMF screening plan preparation activi- vices, both agricultural and mental assessment triggers; with RC. ties forest  Monitoring and evaluation of activities On-the-job training  Conducting annual project with Audit Team (1 Annual environmental performance audits week per year) As foreseen by the EIA Law, the Annual Environmental Performance Audit needs to be contracted to an independent local expert organisation. The esti- mated time input is one month a year. The environmental training described in Table 9 would require the involve- ment of a local expert organisation with possible inputs from international ex- perts for the initial training of the trainers exercise, i.e. the initial workshop in- dicated in the Table, (at a maximum estimated cost of US $10,000), but the most important training effort would need to be constant and operative on the field. Finally, it is probable that an independent expert advice and support will be re- quired from time to time in support of EMF implementation and review. This is the reason that it has been recommended that an environmental expert should be included in the Project Management Team (PMT). An estimate of this cost is around US$5,000 per year in professional fees and expenses. 6 Annex 1: List of potential environmental impacts Project Component and Activity Potential Social and Envi- Social and Environmental Mitigations Responsibility for Timing in Project horizon ronmental Issues Action Component A – Ipard Like Agri-Environmental Measures A.1 Provision of competitive grants for rural devel- See details in following cells Screening process as described in the 1.applicants 1.before submission of applications opment measures grants operation manual and as detailed in 2.extension service 2. evaluation of applications the following cells. 3.ARDA/PMT 3. financing decision Gender, age and social sensitive criteria need to included in screening process. A.2 Implementation of Communal Forestry and Included in the preparation of Annual Op- PMT/PC/Commune At time of identification of activities Pasture Management Plans (CFPMPs) existing eration Plans to be financed through competitive under the NRDP . selection The following activities can also be included in the Implementation of MicroCatchment Management Plans (Section A3) Forest Protection: ban community access to forest Consequences related to re- Appropriate community planning for wood PC and To be included in Annual Opera- stricted access of community to harvesting in other forest areas. DFS/Communal For- tional Plan forests with traditional user est expert/FPUAs rights: increased pressures on other areas, especially state forest. Silvicultural activities: PC and To be included in Annual Opera- -clearing (first thining), marking stems to be re- Activities will take place either in Appropriate planning at Commune level to DFS/Communal For- tional Plan moved, cutting, removing cut material from forest; state forest or in forests with ensure all users rights are considered and est expert and Head -pruning user rights where the owners respected; of Com- -forest fire prevention and control, fire breaks will become involved in the ac- mune/Extension ser- -fertilizing tivities Identify adequate mitigation measures in vices/FPUAs -pest management (forest health) case vehicles are used for transport activi- Agricultural expert Potential transport issues relat- ties (risk of soil and groundwater contami- ed to removing cut material from nation by fuel leakages, noise and dust forest if done with vehicles; impact on natural habitat); erosion due to tracts Monitor and prevent pesticide usage and Consider Annual ground water Potential negative impact of provide adequate awareness training to quality sampling/monitoring plan 1 Project Component and Activity Potential Social and Envi- Social and Environmental Mitigations Responsibility for Timing in Project horizon ronmental Issues Action fertilizers and pesticides on farmers; Water quality monitor- water table and surrounding Provide training for integrated pest control ing expert/ Regional water bodies and appropriate natural fertilisation meth- Environmental Agen- ods to farmers; cy for Monitoring pro- Periodical monitoring of key water bodies gram to ensure no degradation is ongoing Harvesting and Utilisation: -thinning (second thinning): marking, cutting, for- PC and To be included in Annual Opera- est transport, storage (landing operations), road . Activities will take place either Appropriate planning at Commune level DFS/Communal For- tional Plan transport; in state forest or in forests with planning to ensure all users rights are est expert and Head -harvesting mature timber: marking, cutting, forest user rights where the owners considered and respected. of Com- transport, storage (landing operations), road will become involved in the ac- Identify adequate mitigation measures in mune/Extension ser- transport. tivities case vehicles are used for transport activi- vic- ties (risk of soil and groundwater contami- es/FPUAs/Regional Potential transport issues relat- nation by fuel/oil leakages, noise and dust Environmental Agen- ed to removing cut material from impact on natural habitat); Mitigation of cy for monitoring pro- forest if done with vehicles; erosion due to temporary tracts, blocking gram streams and rivulets by introduction of reduced impact logging (RIL ) Afforestation -planning:site selection, species selection Activities will take place either in Appropriate planning at Commune level to PC and To be included in Annual Opera- -site preparation: weeding, pitting, soil preparation state forest or in forests with ensure all users rights are considered and DFS/Communal For- tional Plan -planting/sowing user rights where the owners respected. est expert and Head -irrigation will become involved in the ac- Selection of appropriately diverse species of Com- -weeding tivities to be planted to safeguard biodiversity. mune/Extension ser- -pest control Reduction of forest diversi- vices/FPUAs -Checking survival rate ty/loss of biodiversity through Provide capacity building for fire protection excessive use of black locust Monitor and prevent pesticide usage and tree (Robinia pseudoaccacia) provide adequate awareness training. Consider Annual ground water and Mediterranean pine tree. Provide training for integrated pest control quality sampling/monitoring plan if Impoverishment/alteration of and appropriate natural fertilisation meth- pesticides and fertilisers are used. soil quality ods Water quality monitor- 2 Project Component and Activity Potential Social and Envi- Social and Environmental Mitigations Responsibility for Timing in Project horizon ronmental Issues Action Traditional method of fire to ing expert/ Regional promote shoot growth could Periodical monitoring of key water bodies Environmental Agen- spread to re-forested areas to ensure no degradation is ongoing. cy for Monitoring pro- gram Potential negative impact of pesticides on water table and surrounding water bodies Reforestation -Natural regeneration Activities will take place either in Appropriate planning at Commune level to PC and To be included in Annual Opera- -Assisted natural regeneration state forest or in forests with ensure all users rights are considered and DFS/Communal For- tional Plan Gap Planting user rights where the owners respected. est expert and Head -planning:site selection, species selection will become involved in the ac- of Com- -site preparation: weeding, pitting, soil preparation tivities mune/Extension ser- Consider Annual ground water -planting/sowing Monitor and prevent pesticide usage and vices/FPUAs quality sampling/monitoring plan if -irrigation provide adequate awareness training pesticides and fertilisers are used. -weeding Provide training for integrated pest control Water quality monitor- -pest control and appropriate natural fertilisation meth- ing expert/ Regional -Checking survival rate Potential negative impact of ods Environmental Agen- Direct sowing pesticides on water table and Periodical monitoring of key water bodies cy for Monitoring pro- -planning:site selection, species selection surrounding water bodies; to ensure no degradation is ongoing gram -site preparation: weeding, pitting, soil preparation -planting/sowing -weeding See above for pest control -pest control -Checking survival rate Seedling Production -seed collection Potential usage of pesticides Monitor and prevent pesticide usage and Water quality monitor- To be included in Annual Opera- -soil preparation and fertilisers provide adequate awareness training ing expert/ Regional tional Plan -sowing Provide training for integrated pest control Environmental Agen- -watering Potential waste management and appropriate natural fertilisation meth- cy for Monitoring Consider Annual ground water -spraying for pests issues related to packing ods quality sampling/monitoring plan if -weed control Potential transport issues if Periodical monitoring of key water bodies pesticides and fertilisers are used -packing using vehicles to ensure no degradation is ongoing -transport Erosion prevention and control (other than forestation) 3 Project Component and Activity Potential Social and Envi- Social and Environmental Mitigations Responsibility for Timing in Project horizon ronmental Issues Action -planning:site selection Activities will take place either in Appropriate planning at Commune level to PC and To be included in Annual Opera- -gully control state forest or in forests with ensure all users rights are considered and DFS/Communal For- tional Plan -Planting other than tree species user rights where the owners respected est expert and Head -fencing will become involved in the ac- of Com- tivities mune/Extension ser- vices/FPUAs Protection of degraded pasture land and newly Potential overgrazing caused on Arrange for agreements on herd sizes and PC/FDS/head of To be included in individual MC planted forest by construction of fences adjacent unprotected land may grazing patterns within the participating Commune and Annual Operational Plan and Moni- increase soil erosion community. FPUAs/Extension tored during implementation Appropriate selection for mate- Monitoring of livestock numbers during services rial and construction method project implementation. used to build fences Tagging of livestock to make monitoring possible (this is legally required already) Application of “green procurements” guidelines for fence material Construction of small erosion control structures Temporary impact for noise/dust Application of standard environmental PC/DFS/FPUAs To be included in individual MC (check dams) on surrounding natural habitat mitigation measures (through checklists) Management Plan and Monitored during construction during building/repair of erosion control during implementation Localised erosion problems structures: erosion, noise and dust con- Permanent visual impact trol. Appropriate use of low visual impact build- ing materials and supervision of design Potential impact for downstream and construction by qualified engineer. Local water man- water users Application of “green procurements” agement authorities guidelines for fence material Appropriate water management planning and monitoring of erosion control effec- tiveness A.3.Preparation of Communal Micro-catchment Potential issues of green pro- Ensure gender issues are considered by PMT/head of com- To be included in Grant operational Plans (CMCPs) curement to ensure that opera- involving as many women and young peo- munes manual tions are carried out in an envi- ple as possible. ronmentally and socially sus- Ensure preparation of management plans tainable manner is carried out in an environmentally sus- tainable way by including EMF screening of activities and preparation of EMP to include environmental mitigations if nega- tive impacts are identified. 4 Project Component and Activity Potential Social and Envi- Social and Environmental Mitigations Responsibility for Timing in Project horizon ronmental Issues Action A.3. implementation of Communal Micro- Issues, mitigation measures, Included in the preparation of Annual Op- PMT/PC/Commune At time of identification of activities catchment Plans (CMCPs) responsibilities and timing relat- eration Plans. to be financed through competitive ed to forestry processes are the Appropriate planning at Commune level to selection same as the ones indicated for ensure all users rights are considered and activities in component A2. respected.. Additional activities that maybe more specific to Microcatchment Management Plans are listed below: Pasture Protection (fencing) Temporary impact for noise/dust Appropriate selection for material and PC/Commune/FPUAs To be included in individual MC on surrounding natural habitat construction method used to build fences Management Plan and Monitored during construction during implementation Permanent visual impact Rehabilitation (cleaning shrubs and rocks) Potential shrub disposal issues: Appropriate shrub disposal should be PC/Commune/FPUAs To be included in individual MC . the more shrubs, the more C in considered depending on situation. Management Plan and Monitored pastures, but less favourable during implementation pasture. If the shrubs are burned, C is released perma- nently in the air. If they are left on ground, C in these conditions is fixed almost permanently because it does not rot. Silvopastoral planting Planting fodder trees Appropriate planning at Commune level to PMT/PC/Commune/F To be included in individual MC ensure all users rights are considered and PUA Management Plan and Monitored respected.. during implementation Overseeding to enrich the vegetation Potential biodiversity issues Adequate species selection should be PC/Commune/FPUAs To be included in individual MC made to safeguard biodiversity Management Plan and Monitored during implementation Construction of water points for livestock Families with many livestock Appropriate planning at Commune level to PC/DFS/local water To be included in individual MC units would have more ad- ensure all users rights are considered and management authori- Annual Operational Plan and Moni- vantage. . respected: water points should be built in ties toring/sample during annual EA Potential impacts on water qual- the poorest areas of the villages so as to ity may be caused through pol- bring benefits to the less well off families. lution by livestock at new water Adequate planning to locate watering points points so as not to effect downstream 5 Project Component and Activity Potential Social and Envi- Social and Environmental Mitigations Responsibility for Timing in Project horizon ronmental Issues Action watering needs. Shelter (coral) Temporary impact for noise/dust Appropriate selection for material and PC/Commune/FPUAs To be included in individual MC on surrounding natural habitat construction method used to build fences Management Plan and Monitored during construction during implementation Permanent visual impact Agriculture Reduction of Bareland (abandoned/refused): -Preparing land (initial plowing, leveling), marking, digging holes, Potential use of pesticides to Monitor and prevent pesticide usage and PC and DFS/Head of To be included in Annual Opera- planting seedlings or rootstocks, enhance fruit harvests provide adequate awareness training Commune/Extension tional Plan -applying fertilizer, Potential use of fertilisers may Provide training for integrated pest control servic- -establishing trellis posts, cause water ground water pollu- and appropriate natural fertilisation meth- vic- -making pocket terraces, tion. ods es/FPUAsAgricultural -pruning, Periodical monitoring of key water bodies expert To be included in Annual Opera- -supplying and applying pesticides, to ensure no degradation is ongoing tional Plan -harvesting PC and DFS/ Head of Commune /Extension Planting of fruit trees, medicinal plants for fami- services ly/communal consumption and revenue Adequate planning for sustainable quanti- Planting of alfa alfa for forage ties of livestock needs to be carried out at Introduction of forage on mar- community level ginal lands may increase num- ber of livestock and cause over- grazing and consequently ero- sion problems Appropriate use of marginal agricultural land (pri- All agricultural land is under Appropriate planning at Commune level to vate land on slope with shallow soils: private ownership now although ensure all users rights are considered and PC and DFS/Head of -Preparing land (initial plowing, leveling), marking, title deed is still lacking in many respected Commune/Extension To be included in Annual Opera- digging holes, areas. services/FPUAs tional Plan planting seedlings or rootstocks, -applying fertilizer, Monitor and prevent pesticide usage and -establishing trellis posts, provide adequate awareness training -making pocket terraces, Potential use of pesticides to Provide training for integrated pest control Agricultural expert -pruning, enhance fruit harvests and appropriate natural fertilisation meth- PC and DFS/ Head of To be included in Annual Opera- -supplying and applying pesticides, Potential use of fertilisers may ods Commune /Extension tional Plan -harvesting cause water ground water pollu- Periodical monitoring of key water bodies services 6 Project Component and Activity Potential Social and Envi- Social and Environmental Mitigations Responsibility for Timing in Project horizon ronmental Issues Action tion. to ensure no degradation is ongoing Trees on field boundaries All agricultural land is under Appropriate planning at Commune level to PC and DFS/Head of -Preparing land, private ownership now although ensure all users rights are considered and Commune/Extension -marking, title deed is still lacking in many respected services/FPUAs To be included in Annual Opera- -digging holes, areas. The household in ques- Monitor and prevent pesticide usage and tional Plan -planting seedlings, tion to be involved in the activi- provide adequate awareness training Agricultural expert - applying fertilizer, ties Provide training for integrated pest control PC and DFS/ Head of and appropriate natural fertilisation meth- Commune /Extension Potential use of pesticides to ods services enhance fruit harvests Periodical monitoring of key water bodies To be included in Annual Opera- Potential use of fertilisers may to ensure no degradation is ongoing tional Plan cause water ground water pollu- tion. Small scale irrigation Participatory process is essential in the PC /Head of Com- To be included in individual MC Construction of water reservoirs for irrigation and Potential water utilisation con- planning of the irrigation system and local- mune/FPUAs/water Annual Operational Plan and Moni- rehabilitation/repairs of irrigation cabals/pumping flicts could arise in the commu- isation of the reservoirs. services toring during implementation stations nity. In the case of NRDP, reservoirs were built Presently pumps are privately and a timing arrangement was agreed owned and villagers pay a fee upon to ensure equal distribution of water for use. If common property, the in the community. villagers will benefit from lower Periodic consultation should be carried out fee. to ensure no potential conflictual situation is developing on water rights. Planting of vineyards for revenue production have Negative impacts include re- Adequate support for fertilisers and pesti- PC/FDS/head of To be included in individual MC an extra positive effect of embellishment of the moval of native vegetation and cide usage must be provided and integrat- Commune and Annual Operational Plan and Moni- landscape use of fertilisers and pesticides ed pest management applied when possi- FPUAs/Extension tored during implementation to impact soil and groundwater ble services quality Adequate participatory process must be ensured in the selection of beneficiaries to Potential conflict within the avoid community conflict: it is important to community as vineyards are monitor that gender, age and social crite- 7 Project Component and Activity Potential Social and Envi- Social and Environmental Mitigations Responsibility for Timing in Project horizon ronmental Issues Action planted on private properties of rias are applied in the planning of activities single farmers. and investments. Beekeeping Potential impact of pest control Adequate beekeeping and pest control PC//head of Com- To be included in individual MC substances training should be provided mune and Annual Operational Plan and Moni- FPUAs/Agricultural tored during implementation service Rainfed horticulture fruits/vegetables/forages Potential community user rights Appropriate planning at Commune level to PC /Head of Com- To be included in Annual Opera- conflicts ensure all users rights are considered and mune/Extension ser- tional Plan respected: it is important to monitor that vices/FPUAs Potential use of pesticides to gender, age and social criterias are ap- enhance fruit harvests plied in the planning of activities and in- Agricultural expert Potential use of fertilisers may vestments. PC/ Head of Com- cause water ground water pollu- Monitor and prevent pesticide usage and mune /FPUAs tion. provide adequate awareness training Provide training for integrated pest control and appropriate natural fertilisation meth- ods Periodical monitoring of key water bodies to ensure no degradation is ongoing Irrigated horticulture (fruits/vegetables/forages) Potential community user rights Appropriate planning at Commune level to PC and DFS/Head of conflicts ensure all users rights are considered and Commune/Extension respected: it is important to monitor that services/FPUAs To be included in Annual Opera- Potential use of pesticides to gender, age and social criterias are ap- tional Plan enhance fruit harvests plied in the planning of activities and in- Agricultural expert Potential use of fertilisers may vestments. PC and DFS/ Head of cause water ground water pollu- Monitor and prevent pesticide usage and Commune /Extension tion. provide adequate awareness training services Provide training for integrated pest control and appropriate natural fertilisation meth- ods Periodical monitoring of key water bodies to ensure no degradation is ongoing Artificial insemination for cattle to improve live- Veterinary support may intro- Capacity building should be provided to Consult- To be included in individual MC stock quality in order to reduce grazing pressure duce chemicals. Proper man- ensure proper handling of veterinary med- ants/FPUAs/Commun Annual Operational Plan and Moni- agement and disposal must be icines and adequate disposal procedures. es/PC/ tored during implementation 8 Project Component and Activity Potential Social and Envi- Social and Environmental Mitigations Responsibility for Timing in Project horizon ronmental Issues Action ensured to avoid potential envi- ronmental impact Promotion of recreational and sustainable tourism Careful monitoring to avoid Capacity building should be ensured to Consult- To be included in individual MC through maintenance and rehabilitation of moun- misuse of paths and accommo- communities for the management of envi- ants/FPUAs/Commun Annual Operational Plan and Moni- tain paths and traditional houses for accommoda- dation places (No hunting to be ronmental issues such as waste manage- es/PC/ cooperative tored during implementation tions of tourists and trekkers allowed). ment/waste water treatment etc and to experts Build awareness and capacity in support in management and operation of relation to solid waste manage- cooperatives ment and other environmental It is important to monitor that gender, age management issue.s and social criterias are applied in the Screening should be conducted planning of activities and investments. for culture heritage buildings Organisation of interest groups to ensure community participa- tion Primary processing of produce for sustainable Production of honey, mush- Capacity building should be ensured to PCHead of Com- To be included in individual MC production rooms, medicinal herbs, char- communities so that they can add value to mune/FPUAs/Consult Annual Operational Plan and Moni- coal and other similar products, the production chain and be given support ants tored during implementation should be implemented to help in the operation and management of an sustainability of community and agricultural cooperative. should be organised in interest groups. It is important to monitor that gender, age Capacity should be provided in and social criterias are applied in the relation to environmental man- planning of activities and investments. agement of soil waste/waste water, energy and water supply and usage, transport, packaging etc. Component B-Payment for environmental ser- See Details in the following cells Screening Process as foreseen in PMT/RC To be included in ESP Manual and vices (PES) Monitored during implementation B1:Develpment of appropriate mechanisms and Potential social and environ- Green Procurement should be implement- PMT/RC To be included in ESP Manual and enabling the environment for PES mental impact issues may arise ed in relation to paper work and contracts. Monitored during implementation B2: Development of Carbon Sequestration pro- jects Forest Protection: ban community access to forest Consequences tied to restricted Appropriate community planning for wood PC and To be included in Annual Opera- 9 Project Component and Activity Potential Social and Envi- Social and Environmental Mitigations Responsibility for Timing in Project horizon ronmental Issues Action access of community to forests harvesting in other forest areas. DFS/Communal For- tional Plan with traditional user rights: in- est expert/FPUAs creased pressures on other areas, especially state forest. Afforestation/ Reforestation/ -Natural regeneration Activities will take place either in Appropriate planning at Commune level to PC and To be included in Annual Opera- -Assisted natural regeneration state forest or in forests with ensure all users rights are considered and DFS/Communal For- tional Plan Gap Planting user rights where the owners respected. est expert and Head -planning:site selection, species selection will become involved in the ac- of Com- -site preparation: weeding, pitting, soil preparation tivities mune/Extension ser- Consider Annual ground water -planting/sowing Monitor and prevent pesticide usage and vices/FPUAs quality sampling/monitoring plan if -irrigation provide adequate awareness training pesticides and fertilisers are used. -weeding Provide training for integrated pest control Water quality monitor- -pest control and appropriate natural fertilisation meth- ing expert/ Regional -Checking survival rate Potential negative impact of ods Environmental Agen- Direct sowing pesticides on water table and Periodical monitoring of key water bodies cy for Monitoring pro- -planning:site selection, species selection surrounding water bodies; to ensure no degradation is ongoing gram -site preparation: weeding, pitting, soil preparation -planting/sowing -weeding -pest control -Checking survival rate See above for pest control Component C- Institutional and Implementa- tion Support and Monitoring C1 Capacity building to stakeholders Institutions Potential social and environ- All processes implementation should un- PMT/PC/Communes/ To be included in Management mental impact issues may arise dergo social screening to ensure rights of FPUAS Plans and Annual Operational all community member s are respected Plans and all vulnerable groups are included. Green Procurement: all goods purchased for the implementation of the activities should undergo screening to ensure they are sourced in an environmentally sus- tainable manner. C2 Strengthening good governance Potential social and environ- All processes implementation should un- PMT/PC/Communes/ To be included in Management mental impact issues may arise dergo social screening to ensure rights of FPUAS Plans and Annual Operational 10 Project Component and Activity Potential Social and Envi- Social and Environmental Mitigations Responsibility for Timing in Project horizon ronmental Issues Action all community member s are respected Plans and all vulnerable groups are included. Green Procurement: all goods purchased for the implementation of the activities should undergo screening to ensure they are sourced in an environmentally sus- tainable manner. C3 Empowering beneficiaries Potential social and environ- All processes implementation should un- PMT/PC/Communes/ To be included in Management mental impact issues may arise dergo social screening to ensure rights of FPUAS Plans and Annual Operational all community member s are respected Plans and all vulnerable groups are included. Green Procurement: all goods purchased for the implementation of the activities should undergo screening to ensure they are sourced in an environmentally sus- tainable manner. C4 Project Management and Administration Potential social and environ- All processes implementation should un- PMT/PC/Communes/ To be included in Management mental impact issues may arise dergo social screening to ensure rights of FPUAS Plans and Annual Operational all community member s are respected Plans and all vulnerable groups are included. Green Procurement: all goods purchased for the implementation of the activities should undergo screening to ensure they are sourced in an environmentally sus- tainable manner. 11 Annex 2 ESP Grant Activity Environmental And Social Screening Form Environmental and Social Checklist Form (must be filled out for every application) Name of Management Plan: Name of Commune: Project application Number: Scope of Project and Activity: General Project Information Yes No Has the project been selected by the Commune on a participatory basis? Provide evidence of how this was done: Does the project involve women and vulnerable groups: Provide evidence of how this was done: If the answer is no to these two questions, the activity selection process should be repeated Has the local population or any NGO’s expressed concern about the proposed activity’s enviro n- mental/social aspects or expressed opposition? If yes, give details: Describe selected site location: Is map attached? Why was the land chosen? Who owns the land? Site Environmental/Social Screening Yes No Is the land currently occupied or regularly used for productive purposes (e.g. gardening, farming, pasture, fishing locations, forests)? Does the proposed activity displace individuals, families or businesses? Does it result in the temporary or permanent loss of crops, fruit trees or household infrastructure? Is the selected land inside or near a protected or environmentally sensitive area? 12 Is the selected site in an area where potential water usage conflicts may arise? Is the selected site in a medium/high erosion potential area? Is the selected area near cultural heritage sites or historical buildings/sites? If any of the answers is yes, provide details: Foreseen activity: What activity does the project foresee? A2. Forest processes A2 Minor new construction: ( small erosion/gully control structures (check dams), fences, water points for livestock, water ponds for irrigation) If yes, has a work program been foreseen? Give evidence: For example, what resources will be used in construction and operation (e.g. materials, water, energy): A3. Agricultural processes: Describe Activity Environmental/Social screening: Does the proposed activity require a FULL environmental impact assessment under the Albanian Law for Environ- mental Impact Assessment? If yes, this activity cannot be financed. Does the activity foresee any of the following? Yes No A3. Diversion or use of surface waters. A3. New or rebuilt irrigation or drainage systems. A3. Contruction of small dams, weirs, reservoirs or water point. A3. Use of pesticides A3. Use of fertilizers A3. Veterinary interventions (artificial insemination) A3. Vehicle transport of produce A3. Rehabilitation of buildings A3. Development of trekking paths A3. Production of solid waste A3. Production of Waste water If any of the answers in the above section is yes, a site assessment and an Environmental Management Plan is required before the activity implementation is started. 13 CERTIFICATION We certify that we have thoroughly examined all the potential adverse effects of this subproject. To the best of our knowledge, the subproject plan as described in the application and appended design reports (e.g. EMP), if any, will be adequate to avoid or minimize all adverse envi- ronmental and social impacts. Community representative (signature): Date: FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY Desk Appraisal by regional Coordinator/PMT:  The subproject can be considered for approval. The application is complete, all significant environmental and social issues are resolved, and no further subpro- ject planning is required.  A field appraisal is required.  An EMP is required The following issues need to be clarified at the subproject site: A Field Appraisal report and, if deemed necessary, an EMP will be completed and added to the subproject file. Name of desk appraisal officer (print): Signature: …………………………………………………Date: ……………………………… 14 Annex 3 EMF Environmental Field Appraisal Form Name of Management Plan: Name of Commune: Project application Number: Scope of Project and Activity: FPUA representative name and address: Head of Commune name and ad- dress: Regional Project Coordinator name and address: Name of PMT member reviewing: General Project Information Yes No Detailed description of the project activities and objective: Detailed description of women and vulnerable groups involvement: Describe selected site location: Is map attached? Site Environmental/Social Issues yes no Does the proposed activity displace individuals, families, cultivations or businesses? Does it result in the temporary or permanent loss of crops, fruit trees or household infrastructure? Is the selected land inside or near a protected or environmentally sensitive area? Is the selected site in an area where potential water usage conflicts may arise? Is the selected site in a medium/high erosion potential area? Is the selected area near cultural heritage sites or historical buildings/sites? Does the proposed project foresee any of the following activities? Minor new construction: ( small erosion control structures (check dams), fences, water points for livestock, water ponds for irrigation) Diversion or use of surface waters. New or rebuilt irrigation or drainage systems. Construction of small dams, weirs, reservoirs or water point. Use of pesticides Use of fertilizers Veterinary interventions Beekeeping Transport of produce 15 Rehabilitation of buildings Development of trekking paths Production of solid waste Production of Waste water If any of the answers is yes, has an EMP been prepared for the project and does it contain appropriate mitigation measures? If the answer is yes, and the EMP is adequate, no further action is required. The proposal can by submitted for final approval If the answer is yes and the EMP is not adequate, it must be improved before the application is considered If the answer is yes and no EMP is available, it must be prepared and assessed before application can con- sidered further. Field Appraisal by Regional Coordinator/REA/FPUA  The subproject can be considered for approval. The field appraisal of the pro- posed project site and local consultation with the proposing and potentially affect- ed parties have given evidence that community and the proposed project have ad- dressed the environmental and social issues in compliance with the ESMF re- quirements.   Further subproject preparation work must be completed before the ap- plication can be considered further. The following issues need to be clarified at the subproject site: ………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………… …………… This Field Appraisal report and an EMP will be completed/improved and added to the subproject file. Name of desk appraisal officer (print): …………………………….……………………………… Signature: …………………………… Date: ………………………… 16 Annex 4 Environmental Management Plan INSTRUCTIONS AND GUIDELINES An EMP should include the following: a) An outline of the proposed intervention (first page, project descrip- tion). b) Description of the foreseen adverse environmental impacts: the ad- verse impacts are identified through the screening process (All im- pacts are identified in EMF foreseen activities table Annex 1 which can be used for guidance). c) Description of the mitigation measures for each identified adverse environmental impact, identifying both the cost and institutional re- sponsibility for its implementation. (All mitigation measures are identified in EMF foreseen activities table Annex 1 to be used for guidance). d) Description of a monitoring program of the mitigation measures and of their success in minimising the identified adverse impacts of the implemented interventions. Like in the case of the mitigation measures, the monitoring program should identify both the cost and institutional responsibility for its implementation. e) Description of the implementation schedules of both mitigation measures and related monitoring plans. Estimated cost and institutional responsibility of both mitigation measures and monitoring plans are suggested in the tables, but should be confirmed during EMP preparation. 17 ESP ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN Name of Management Plan: Name of Commune: Project application Number: Scope of Proposed work: FPUA representative name and address: LGU Regional Project Coordinator name and address: Name of PMT member reviewing: General Project Information Detailed description of the proposed work and objective: Is proposed activity included in Annex I of the Environmental Impact Assessment Law (Law 10440/2011)? See Annex 2 of Environmental Assessment Report for guidance If answer is Yes, activity CANNOT be financed under ESP scheme. Interrupt process. Is proposed activity included in Annex II of the Environmental Impact Assessment Law (Law 10440/2011)? (see An- nex 2 of Environmental Assessment Report for guidance) If yes, Environmental Screening by a certified expert must be undertaken. Is the proposed site location inside or in the Buffer zone of a Protected Area? If yes, please check if the proposed activity is allowed: The Law 8906, dated 6.6.2002 “On protected areas” defines the size of the buffe r zone and the list of activities that are not allowed for different categories of protected areas as follows: Art.5 Strict nature reserve; Art. 6 National Parks; Art. 7 Nature Monuments; Art. 9 Managed Nature Reserves; Art. 10 Protected landscape; Art. 11 Multiple resource use areas. Regional Natural Park Also Art. 12 provides that forest and other natural resources within protected areas are excluded from harvesting and are managed in compliance with the PA management plan. If proposed activity is included in any of the lists, consider an alternative site selection . In order to develop appropriate EMP select specific activity module from the following pages 18 Forest Processes (A description of the different processes is available in the list of Activities Tables) Reference Laws:  Law on EIA (Annex II)  Law on Forest and Forest Police  Law on Environment Protection  Law on Plant Protection (list of allowed pesticides)  Law on Water management  Law on Integrated Waste Management Main requirements:  EIA Law (No 10440, date 07/07/2011): Art 8 requires an Environmental Screening for activities included in Annex II (point 1. Agriculture: ç) Afforestation and deforestation for changing to other type of land use;  Article 20 of the Law on Forest and Forest Police (No 9384 date 04/05/2005) requires the protection of forests and pastures from any negative impact. The new law on forests keeps the same article (Art. 19) on the protection of forests and pasture from any negative impact but additionally adds an article (Art. 33) about environmental impact as- sessment of activities in forests and pastures.  The Law on Environmental Protection (No 10 431, date 9.6.2011) requires the protection of all elements of environment from pollution (air (Art. 16), water (Art 17), soil (Art. 18), nature (Art 20). It also requires integrated waste management (Art 33) and protection against negative impacts of using chemicals (Art 34)  The law on plant protection requires use of registered pesticides (EU approved)  The law (No. 10463 date22/09/2011) on water management provides that pollution control (Art 26) is achieved through implementation of relevant emission limit values, emis- sion controls based on best available techniques or in the case of diffuse impacts, through the best environmental practices  The law (Nr.10 463, date 22.9.2011) on integrated waste management (Art 16) defines the extended responsibilities of the producer and (Art 21)defines the responsibilities for integrated waste management for any “waste producer”. Please check the Table on Foreseen Impacts and Mitigation Measures Cost Institutional responsibility for all activities in Annex 1 Phase Foreseen Mitigation meas- Monitoring Install/ Monitor Install/operate Monitor Timing Impact ure measure operate Planning Environmental marginal marginal LGU/FPUA RC/PMT Before application Screening submission Implementation Soil pollu- Manage use of Visually inspect Cost of excavat- marginal Workers/contractors Work- During Activity imple- tion due to motor vehicles, for signs of ing and dispos- ers/LGU/FPU mentation Potential storage of ma- leaks ing of 1m3 of A leakages of chinery on non soil with spill oil/hydrocar permeable sur- 500 euros bons faces, clean up spills Operation Forest Health marginal marginal LGU/Forest Service Forest ser- After intervention has vice/RC been completed. 19 Comments Comments should include any indication/issue relative to the activities indicated in the EMP Agricultural Processes Reference Laws:  Law on EIA (Annex II)  Law on environment protection  Law on plant protection (list of allowed pesticides)  Law on Water management  Law on integrated waste management Main requirements:  EIA Law: Art 8 requires an Environmental Screening for activities included in Annex II (point 1. Agriculture);  The Law on environment protection requires the protection of all elements of environment from pollution (air (Art. 16), water (Art 17), soil (Art. 18), nature (Art 20). It also re- quires integrated waste management (Art 33) and protection against negative impacts of using chemicals (Art 34)  The law on plant protection requires use of registered pesticides (EU approved)  The law on water management provides that pollution control (Art 26) is achieved through implementation of relevant emission limit values, emission controls based on best available techniques or in the case of diffuse impacts, through the best environmental practices  The law on integrated waste management (Art 16) defines the extended responsibilities of the producer and (Art 21)defines the responsibilities for integrated waste manage- ment for any “waste producer” Please check the Table on Foreseen Impacts and Mitigation Measures for all Cost Institutional responsibility activities in Annex 1 Phase Foreseen Impact Mitigation meas- Monitoring meas- Install/operate Monitor Install/operate Monitor Timing ure ure Planning Environmen- marginal marginal LGU/FPUA RC/PMT Before application tal/IPMP Screen- submission ing Implementation/ Potential exces- IPMP/ Quantities of pesti- Cost of disposal marginal Farmers/LGU LGU/ During Activity im- Operation sive use of pesti- awareness train- cides being bought of pesticides FPUA plementation cides/ ing and used and potential fertilizers contamination by pesticides is MAJOR. 20 Implementation/ Manage use of Visually inspect for Cost of excavat- marginal Soil pollution due Workers/contractors Work- During Activity im- Operation motor vehicles, signs of leaks to Potential leak- ing and dispos- ers/LGU/F plementation ages storage of ma- of ing of 1m3 of PUA oil/hydrocarbonschinery on non soil with spill permeable sur- 500 euros faces, clean up spills Comments: Comments should include any indication/issue relative to the activities indicated in the EMP Surface water quality and management: irrigation, water points, quality control Reference Laws:  Law on EIA (Annex II)  Law on Forest and Forest Police  Law on environment protection  Law on Water management Main requirements:  EIA Law: Art 8 requires an Environmental Screening for activities included in Annex II;  Article 20 of the Law on Forest and Forest Police requires the protection of forests and pastures from any negative impact. The new law on forests keeps the same article (Art. 19) on the protection of forests and pasture from any negative impact but additionally adds an article (Art. 33) about environmental impact assessment of activities in forests and pastures.  The Law on environment protection requires the protection of all elements of environment from pollution (air (Art. 16), water (Art 17), soil (Art. 18), nature (Art 20). It also re- quires integrated waste management (Art 33) and protection against negative impacts of using chemicals (Art 34)  The law on water management provides that pollution control (Art 26) is achieved through implementation of relevant emission limit values, emission controls based on best available techniques or in the case of diffuse impacts, through the best environmental practices. The law (Art 32) also defines rules for use of water for different purposes and priorities (Art 36). 21 Please check the Table on Foreseen Impacts and Mitigation Measures for Cost Institutional responsibility all activities in Annex 1 Phase Foreseen Mitigation meas- Monitoring meas- Install/ Monitor In- Monitor Timing Impact ure ure operate stall/operat e Planning Environmental marginal LGU/FPUA Before application submission Screening Planning Social con- Community partic- Appropriate water marginal marginal LGU/FPUA RC/PMT Before application submission flicts ipation in design distribution Construction Potential Capacity Building Monitor Water marginal marginal LGU/FPUA Farm- During activity implementation Reduced in surface water Quantity and com- ers/DFS/RC availability management plaints arising in of water community quantities Construction Potential Awareness build- Monitor Water marginal marginal LGU/FPUA Farm- During activity implementation Reduced ing Quantity and com- ers/DFS/REA/ availability plaints arising in RC of water community quality Operation Potential Adequate Moni- Arising of Both marginal marginal Farm- Farm- Every six months social and toring community conflicts ers/LGU/FP ers/DFS/REA/ environmen- and problems in the UA RC tal impacts appearance of wa- ter Comments Comments should include any indication/issue relative to the activities indicated in the EMP 22 Use of fertilizers/pesticides/chemicals for agriculture Reference Laws:  Law on environment protection  Law on plant protection (list of allowed pesticides)  Law on Water management Main requirements:  The Law on environment protection requires the protection of all elements of environment from pollution (air (Art. 16), water (Art 17), soil (Art. 18), nature (Art 20). It also re- quires integrated waste management (Art 33) and protection against negative impacts of using chemicals (Art 34)  The law on plant protection requires use of registered pesticides (EU approved)  The law on water management provides that pollution control (Art 26) is achieved through implementation of relevant emission limit values, emission controls based on best available techniques or in the case of diffuse impacts, through the best environmental practices Please check the Table on Foreseen Impacts and Mitigation Measures for all Cost Institutional responsibility activities in Annex 1 Phase Foreseen Mitigation measure Monitoring meas- In- Monitor In- Monitor Timing Impact ure stall/operat stall/operat e e Planning Potential Screening with Inte- Quantities of Pesti- Cost of marginal Farm- Farm- Before application submission pesticide grated pesticides Man- cides/ Fertilizers disposal of ers/LGU/FP ers/RC/PMT contamina- agement Plan pesticides UA tion and poten- Sites for storing of tial contam- chemicals should be ination by segregated and have pesticides is impermeable floorings MAJOR. Implementation Potential Capacity building to Number of trained Cost of marginal PMT/RC PMT/RC During project implementation pesticide farmers/FPUAs for inte- persons disposal of contamina- grated pest manage- pesticides tion ment; and poten- Capacity building to tial contam- screen for dangerous ination by chemicals to Environ- pesticides is mental Agency, MAJOR. Implementa- Potential Integrated pesticides Groundwater Cost of Cost of Farm- Farmers/Agri Annual water quality analysis tion/Operation pesticide Management Plan /surface water quali- disposal of annual ers/Agri extension/ contamina- ty monitoring if pes- pesticides analysis extension REA tion Sites for storing of ticides are used and poten- chemicals should be tial contam- segregated and have ination by impermeable floorings pesticides is 23 MAJOR. Operation Potential Integrated pesticides Fruit/vegetable Cost of not marginal Agri exten- National Food Yearly/Seasonal check pesticide Management Plan quality monitoring being able sion safety authori- contamina- to market ty tion Sites for storing of produce for chemicals should be pesticide segregated and have contamina- impermeable floorings tion is MAJOR Comments Comments should include any indication/issue relative to the activities indicated in the EMP Use of transport vehicles Reference Laws: No specific law to regulate the use of transport vehicles. General environmental protection rules are valid here as well:  Law on Forest and Forest Police  Law on environment protection  Law on Water management Please check the Table on Foreseen Impacts and Mitigation Measures for Cost Institutional responsibility all activities in Annex 1 Phase Foreseen Mitigation meas- Monitoring meas- Install/operate Monitor In- Monitor Timing Impact ure ure stall/operat e Planning Implementa- Air quality Appropriate Unnecessary due to marginal marginal LGU/FPUA LGU/FPUA Not Applicable tion/operation maintenance of minimal impact vehicles Noise Appropriate Unnecessary due to marginal marginal LGU/FPUA LGU/FPUA Not Applicable maintenance of minimal impact vehicles Soil surface Appropriate Visual inspection for Cost of repairing marginal LGU/FPUA LGU/FPUA While works are ongoing damage and maintenance of signs of soil dam- erosion damages erosion vehicles age is MAJOR Soil pollu- Manage use of Visually inspect for Cost of excavat- marginal Work- Work- During Activity implementa- 24 tion due to motor vehicles, signs of leaks ing and disposing ers/contract ers/LGU/FPU tion Potential storage of ma- of 1m3 of soil with ors A leakages of chinery on non spill 500 euros oil/hydrocar permeable sur- bons faces, clean up spills Comments Comments should include any indication/issue relative to the activities indicated in the EMP Construction/rehabilitation of historical buildings Reference Laws:  Law on cultural heritage  Law on EIA  Law on environment protection  Law on integrated waste management Main requirements:  Law (No 9048 Date 07-04-2003) “on cultural heritage” defines that any person is obliged to preserve cultural heritage values (Art. 8). Art 17 defines rules for the rehabilitation of cultural heritage sites/buildings  EIA Law: Art 8 requires an Environmental Screening for activities included in Annex II  The Law on environment protection requires the protection of all elements of environment from pollution (air (Art. 16), water (Art 17), soil (Art. 18), nature (Art 20). It also re- quires integrated waste management (Art 33) and protection against negative impacts of using chemicals (Art 34)  The law on integrated waste management (Art 16) defines the extended responsibilities of the producer and (Art 21)defines the responsibilities for integrated waste manage- ment for any “waste producer” Please check the Table on Foreseen Impacts and Mitigation Measures for Cost Institutional responsibility all activities in Annex 1 Phase Foreseen Mitigation meas- Monitoring meas- Install/operate Monitor In- Monitor Timing Impact ure ure stall/operat e Planning EIA Screening in Review materials Such practices marginal Work- Contractor Before application submission compliance with and construction may incur addi- ers/contract /RC and PMT EIA law practices against tional costs and ors Use of traditional traditional ones should be includ- materials and Mandatory submis- ed in design practices sion of complete design in applica- tion Construction Potential Ensure appropri- Visual inspection to Cost of transport marginal Work- Contractor Periodically during construc- waste man- ate Waste man- ensure no release of waste to dis- ers/contract /RC and PMT tion agement agement of waste into the posal site ors issues Maximize reuse of environment 25 inert materials Operation Potential Ensure appropri- Visual inspection to Cost of transport marginal Work- Contractor Periodically during operation waste water ate Waste man- ensure no release of waste to dis- ers/contract /RC and PMT manage- agement of wastewater and posal site ors ment issues Ensure all waste liquid wastes into water is collected the environment in leak proof sep- tic tanks which are regularly emp- tied and disposed of appropriately Comments Comments should include any indication/issue relative to the activities indicated in the EMP Construction/Rehabilitation of walking paths in mountain areas Reference Laws:  Law on EIA  Law on Forest and Forest Police  Law on environment protection Main requirements:  EIA Law: Art 8 requires an Environmental Screening for activities included in Annex II  Article 20 of the Law on Forest and Forest Police requires the protection of forests and pastures from any negative impact. The new law on forests keeps the same article (Art. 19) on the protection of forests and pasture from any negative impact but additionally adds an article (Art. 33) about environmental impact assessment of activities in forests and pastures.  The Law on environment protection requires the protection of all elements of environment from pollution (air (Art. 16), water (Art 17), soil (Art. 18), nature (Art 20). It also re- quires integrated waste management (Art 33) and protection against negative impacts of using chemicals (Art 34) Please check the Table on Foreseen Impacts and Mitigation Measures for Cost Institutional responsibility all activities in Annex 1 26 Phase Foreseen Mitigation meas- Monitoring meas- Phase Foreseen Mitigation Monitoring Phase Impact ure ure Impact measure measure Planning EIA Screening in marginal marginal LGU/FPUA PMT/RC Before application submission compliance with EIA law Implementation Potential Ensure appropri- Visual inspection to Cost of transport marginal Work- Contractor Periodically during construc- waste man- ate Waste man- ensure no release of waste to dis- ers/contract /RC and PMT tion agement agement of waste into the posal site ors issues Maximize reuse of environment inert materials Operation Potential Ensure appropri- Visual inspection to Cost of transport marginal Work- Contractor Periodically during operation waste man- ate Waste man- ensure no release of waste to dis- ers/contract /RC and PMT agement agement of waste into the posal site ors issues Maximize reuse of environment inert materials Comments Comments should include any indication/issue relative to the activities indicated in the EMP Construction of agricultural produce processing units Reference Laws: 27  Law on EIA (Annex II)  Law on environment protection  Law on Water management  Law on integrated waste management Main requirements:  EIA Law: Art 8 requires an Environmental Screening for activities included in Annex II (point 1. Agriculture: ç) Afforesttation and deforestation for changing to other type of land use;  The Law on environment protection requires the protection of all elements of environment from pollution (air (Art. 16), water (Art 17), soil (Art. 18), nature (Art 20). It also re- quires integrated waste management (Art 33) and protection against negative impacts of using chemicals (Art 34)  The law on water management provides that pollution control (Art 26) is achieved through implementation of relevant emission limit values, emission controls based on best available techniques or in the case of diffuse impacts, through the best environmental practices  The law on integrated waste management (Art 16) defines the extended responsibilities of the producer and (Art 21)defines the responsibilities for integrated waste manage- ment for any “waste producer” Please check the Table on Foreseen Impacts and Mitigation Measures for Cost Institutional responsibility all activities in Annex 1 Phase Foreseen Mitigation meas- Monitoring meas- Install/operate Monitor In- Monitor Timing Impact ure ure stall/operat e Planning EIA Screening in marginal marginal LGU/FPUA PMT/RC Before application submission compliance with EIA law Implementation Potential Ensure appropri- Visual inspection to Cost of transport marginal Work- Contractor Periodically during construc- waste and ate Waste man- ensure no release of waste to dis- ers/contract /RC and PMT tion waste water agement of waste into the posal site ors manage- Maximize reuse of environment ment issues inert materials Operation Potential Ensure appropri- Visual inspection to Cost of transport marginal Work- Contractor Periodically during operation waste and ate Waste man- ensure no release of waste to dis- ers/contract /RC and PMT waste water agement of waste into the posal site ors manage- Maximize reuse of environment ment issues inert materials Comments Comments should include any indication/issue relative to the activities indicated in the EMP Units of artificial Insemination 28 Reference Laws:  Law on Veterinary service Main requirements:  The law on veterinary service (No 10 465, date 29.9.2011) in Albania defines all rules for the handling of animals and artificial insemination Please check the Table on Foreseen Impacts and Mitigation Measures for Cost Institutional responsibility all activities in Annex 1 Phase Foreseen Mitigation meas- Monitoring meas- Install/operate Monitor In- Monitor Timing Impact ure ure stall/operat e Planning EIA Screening in marginal marginal LGU/FPUA PMT/RC Before application submission compliance with EIA law Implementation Potential Ensure appropri- Visual inspection to Cost of transport marginal Work- Contractor Periodically waste and ate Waste man- ensure no release of waste to dis- ers/contract /RC and PMT waste water agement of waste into the posal site ors manage- Maximize reuse of environment ment issues inert materials Operation Potential Ensure appropri- Visual inspection to Cost of transport marginal Work- Contractor Periodically during operation waste and ate Waste man- ensure no release of waste to dis- ers/contract /RC and PMT waste water agement of waste into the posal site ors manage- Maximize reuse of environment ment issues inert materials Comments Comments should include any indication/issue relative to the activities indicated in the EMP Erosion Control Measures: Construction of small dams Reference Laws:  Law on EIA 29  Law on Forest and Forest Police  Law on Water management Main requirements:  EIA Law: Art 8 requires an Environmental Screening for activities included in Annex II  Article 20 of the Law on Forest and Forest Police requires the protection of forests and pastures from any negative impact. The new law on forests keeps the same article (Art. 19) on the protection of forests and pasture from any negative impact but additionally adds an article (Art. 33) about environmental impact assessment of activities in forests and pastures.  The law on water management provides that pollution control (Art 26) is achieved through implementation of relevant emission limit values, emission controls based on best available techniques or in the case of diffuse impacts, through the best environmental practices Please check the Table on Foreseen Impacts and Mitigation Measures for all Cost Institutional responsibility activities in Annex 1 Phase Foreseen Mitigation meas- Monitoring measure Install/ Monitor Install/ Monitor Timing Impact ure operate operate Planning EIA Screening in com- marginal marginal LGU/FPUA PMT/RC/FDS Before application sub- pliance with EIA law mission Implementation Dust/noise Limit work on site to Monitor complaints 1 m3 of water marginal Work- Contrac- Periodical during imple- generated times when noise from neighbours, visu- for dust sup- ers/Contract tors/RC/PMT mentation during con- disruptions are al- ally ensure dust gen- pression: ors struction lowed. eration is acceptable marginal For prolonged work, Monitor working hours ensure noise levels and noise levels (audi- are acceptable and bly) use appropriate workers protection. In case of significant dust emissions, use water to suppress dust. Implementation visual Ensure the use of Review materials and marginal marginal Workers/ Contrac- Periodical during imple- local materials. construction practices contractors tors/PMT/RC/ mentation Ensure opinions Mandatory submission /RC FDS and approval of of complete design of local authorities are construction. met 30 Annex 5 ESP Sample EMP for Rubik Commune INSTRUCTIONS AND GUIDELINES An EMP should include the following: a) An outline of the proposed intervention (first page, project descrip- tion). b) Description of the foreseen adverse environmental impacts: the ad- verse impacts are identified through the screening process (All im- pacts are identified in EMF foreseen activities table Annex 1 which can be used for guidance). c) Description of the mitigation measures for each identified adverse environmental impact, identifying both the cost and institutional re- sponsibility for its implementation. (All mitigation measures are identified in EMF foreseen activities table Annex 1 to be used for guidance). d) Description of a monitoring program of the mitigation measures and of their success in minimising the identified adverse impacts of the implemented interventions. Like in the case of the mitigation measures, the monitoring program should identify both the cost and institutional responsibility for its implementation. e) Description of the implementation schedules of both mitigation measures and related monitoring plans. Estimated cost and institutional responsibility of both mitigation measures and monitoring plans are suggested in the tables, but should be confirmed during EMP preparation. 31 Name of Management Plan: Name of Commune: Rubik Project application Number: n.a. Scope of Proposed work: Gully Control: construction of check dams FPUA representative name and address: Mr Gjon Presi LGU n.a. Regional Project Coordinator name and n.a. address: Name of PMT member reviewing: n.a. General Project Information Detailed description of the proposed work and objective: A series of check dams were built to avoid heavy soil erosion in gullies. Dams were built with stones found locally and stabilized with concrete. Is proposed activity included in Annex I of the Environmental Impact Assessment Law (Law 10440/2011)? See Annex 2 of the Environmental Assessment Report for guidance no If answer is Yes, activity CANNOT be financed under ESP scheme. Interrupt process. Is proposed activity included in Annex II of the Environmental Impact Assessment Law (Law 10440/2011)? (see An- nex 2 of the Environmental Assessment Report for guidance) The Law was not existent at the time of NRDP implementation. However, irrigation and water management structure are now included in Annex II of EIA Law. So screening might be necessary for future similar activities. If yes, Environmental Screening by a certified expert must be undertaken. Is the proposed site location inside or in the Buffer zone of a Protected Area? NO If yes, please check if the proposed activity is allowed: The Law 8906, dated 6.6.2002 “On protected areas” defines the size of the buffer zone and the list of activities that are not allowed for different categories of protected areas as follows: Art.5 Strict nature reserve; Art. 6 National Parks; Art. 7 Nature Monuments; Art. 9 Managed Nature Reserves; Art. 10 Protected landscape; Art. 11 Multiple resource use areas. Regional Natural Park Also Art. 12 provides that forest and other natural resources within protected areas are excluded from harvesting and are managed in compliance with the PA management plan. If proposed activity is included in any of the lists, consider an alternative site selection . In order to develop appropriate EMP select specific activity module from the following pages 32 Erosion Control Measures: Construction of small dams Reference Laws: a) Law on EIA b) Law on Forest and Forest Police c) Law on Water management Main requirements: a) EIA Law: Art 8 requires an Environmental Screening for activities included in Annex II b) Article 20 of the Law on Forest and Forest Police requires the protection of forests and pastures from any negative impact. The new law on forests keeps the same article (Art. 19) on the protection of forests and pasture from any negative impact but additionally adds an article (Art. 33) about environmental impact assessment of activities in forests and pastures. c) The law on water management provides that pollution control (Art 26) is achieved through implementation of relevant emission limit values, emission controls based on best available techniques or in the case of diffuse impacts, through the best environmental practices Please check the Table on Foreseen Impacts and Mitigation Measures for all ac- Cost Institutional responsibility tivities in Annex 1 Phase Foreseen Mitigation meas- Monitoring meas- Install/operate Monitor In- Monitor Timing Impact ure ure stall/operat e Planning EIA Screening in com- marginal marginal LGU/FPUA PMT/RC/FDS Before application submis- pliance with EIA law sion Implementation Dust/noise Limit work on site to Monitor complaints 1 m3 of water for marginal Work- Contrac- Periodical during implemen- generated times when noise from neighbours, dust suppression: ers/Contracto tors/RC/PMT tation during con- disruptions are visually ensure dust marginal rs struction allowed. generation is ac- For prolonged work, ceptable ensure noise levels Monitor working hours are acceptable and and noise levels (au- use appropriate dibly) workers protection. In case of significant dust emissions, use water to suppress dust. Implementation visual Ensure the use of Review materials and marginal marginal Workers Contrac- Periodical during implemen- local materials. construction practices /contractors/ tors/PMT/RC/F tation Ensure opinions Mandatory submission RC DS and approval of of complete design of local authorities are construction. met 33 Annex 6 EMF Annual Environmental Audit Form The following Table lists all activities contained in Table 5.2a of detailed en- vironmental impacts assessment. Details of each activity are described in An- nex 4. Please identify the ones implemented in your region and add the re- quired details. 2. Name of Region 3. Regional Project Coordinator Name 4. Name of PMT member reviewing 5. Date of Report 6. Types of activities Number of activities re- Application included an EMF quiring: Approved during the year Field Appraisal Specific TA checklist EMP Components A.1 A.2 A.3 Provision of competitive grants for rural development measures: Forest Processes: Forest Protection Silvicultural activities Harvesting and Utilisation Afforestation Reforestation Seedling Production Components A.1 A.2 A.3 Provision of competitive grants for rural development measures: Erosion prevention and control (other than forestation) Protection of degraded pasture land and newly planted forest by construction of fences Construction of small erosion control structures (check dams) Components A.1 A.2 A.3 Provision of competitive grants for rural development measures: Pastures Protection (fencing) Rehabilitation (cleaning shrubs and rocks) Silvopastoral planting Overseeding to enrich the vegetation Construction of water points for livestock Shelter (coral) Components A.1 A.2 A.3 Provision of competitive grants for rural development measures: Agriculture Reduction of Bareland (abandoned/refused) Appropriate use of marginal agricultural land (pri- vate land on slope with shallow soils Trees on field boundaries Small scale irrigation Planting of vineyards for revenue production have an extra positive effect of embellishment of the landscape 34 2. Name of Region 3. Regional Project Coordinator Name 4. Name of PMT member reviewing 5. Date of Report 6. Types of activities Number of activities re- Application included an EMF quiring: Approved during the year Field Appraisal Specific TA checklist EMP Rainfed horticulture fruits/vegetables/forages Irrigated horticulture (fruits/vegetables/forages) Beekeeping Artificial insemination for cattle to improve quality in order to reduce grazing pressure Promotion of recreational and sustainable tourism through maintenance and rehabilitation of mountain paths and traditional houses for accommodations of tourists and trekkers Primary processing of produce for sustainable pro- duction Component B-Payment for environmental services (PES) Development of Carbon Sequestration pro- jects Forest Protection: ban community access to forest Reforestation (see details in Annex) B2: Development of Carbon Sequestration projects Forest Protection: ban community access to forest Unforeseen environmental or social problems: Please indicate whether any unforeseen environmental and/or social problem was caused by the implemen- tation of any of the activities approved this year. If any, please summarize the problem(s) and what was or will be done to solve them. Activity Problem(s) Actions taken Actions to be taken Have there been any environmental or social analyses carried out by other par- ties (NGOs, other Donors, etc…..) in your district/province? If so, please de- scribe them briefly. ………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………. 35 Have you noticed any particular difficulties/issues with implementing the EMF in the past year (e.g. administrative, communications, forms, capacity)? If so, please describe them briefly. ………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………………… ……………………………………………………………… Training: Please summarize the training received in your region in the past year, as well as key areas of further training you think is needed. Group Training Received Training Needed PMT Regional Coordinator District Forestry Service Officers Forestry/Agricultural Extension Services Regional Environmental Agencies Communities (FPUAs, Forest and agriculture experts) 36 Integrated Pest Management Plan 1. INTRODUCTION The Environmental Protection Service Project has been classified by the WB as an environment category B and triggers OP 4.01 on Environmental Assess- ment. In addition, because it is foreseen that agricultural interventions may be financed and that therefore some fertilizers and pesticides may be used, con- sidering the potential environmental of improper pesticide use and impacts as- sociated, the safeguard on pest management, OP 4.09, has been triggered and an integrated Pest Management Plan (IPMP) must be part of the project prepa- ration documents. 2. REQUIREMENTS OF WB OPERATIONAL POLICY 4.09 The purposes of OP 4.09 include the following: i. to maximize the use of biological or environmental control methods and minimize the use of chemical pesticides. ii. To ensure that the beneficiary country’s regulatory framework includes instruments for the promotion and support of safe, effective and envi- ronmentally sound pest management, and if not, support the develop- ment of national capacity. iii. minimize the environmental and health hazards related to pesticide us- age. 3. REQUIREMENTS OF ALBANIAN LAW FOR PESTICIDES USE The Albanian Law on Crop Protection no. 9362 of 2005, amended in 2008, sets out rules on chemicals that can be imported, traded and used in Albania. It indicates in its art 4 that it is the responsibility of the Directorate of Plant Protection Service to cooperates and coordinates its work with the General Di- rectorate of Standardizing to adapt the international and European standards in the field of Plant Protection Service. Art 22 indicates that products to be used in Albania are only the ones which undergo registration. These are the ones in compliance with EU Council Directive 79/117/EEC prohibiting the placing on the market and use of plant protection products containing certain active sub- stances and Council Directive 91/414/EEC concerning the placing of plant pro- tection products on the market. The updated lists of both allowed and not allowed Crop Protection products are presented in Annex 1. 1 4. CHARACTERISTICS OF IPMP FOR ESP The ESP does not provide financing for the purchase of any pesticides nor does it specifically support the introduction of new pest management practices. However, as it does finance agricultural interventions, it indirectly may cause an increase in the use of pesticides. For this reason, an IPMP must be made available and used by the PMT as a guideline to protect human health and the environment from the negative impacts of the use of pesticides and fertilizers in agriculture and ensure compliance with its requirements. In addition, the IPMP will help protect the natural ecosystem and the natural agents which are beneficial and which fight the pests, pollinate, etc. and will also help establish a framework for critical analysis of activities such as intro- duction of invasive species, transport and storage of pesticides and manage- ment of pesticide residues and waste packaging. The IPMP will also guide the PMT in the needs to develop awareness raising and educational programs for farmers in relation to chemical use and biological pest control. Some of the potential pest and pest management issues, impacts and Mitigation measures are indicated in the following Table 11. Table 11: Pest Management Issues Potential issue Project activity Mitigation measure Pest management Inability to recognize need for proper Awareness on pesticide use to be built pest management may lead to improp- in farmers and capacity building in al- er use of pesticides ternative methods of pest management provided Increase Productivity Increased reliance on chemicals for Raise awareness in pesticide use and pest management and fertilization implement IPMP ; Training in agricultural intensification and consequent changes in practices Improper pesticide use by untrained Use of pesticides by untrained farmers Ensure farmers are trained and are farmers in agricultural activities. aware of pesticides risk. Train them on IPMP and list of allowed pesticides. Availability of pesticides to untrained Use of pesticides by untrained farmers Ensure farmers attend training, conduct farmers poses a risk in agricultural activities. monitoring and evaluation, clearly communicate lists of recommended versus lists of banned pesticides Storage of pesticides, waste manage- Use of pesticides by untrained farmers Training of farmers for pesticide stor- ment of pesticides and their packaging. in agricultural activities. age and waste management. Marketing and Export of Agricultural Improper Pesticides use may limit the Rasinig of farmers awareness to mar- Products markets of agricultural products ket problems tied to pesticide usage 4.1 IPMP Implementation Cycle for the ESP A proper integrated pest management cycle includes the following compo- nents: - Identification of the actual pest management need - Promotion of alternative methods of pest management 2 - Selection of appropriate pesticides - Safe transportation and storage of pesticides - Correct application of pesticides - Adequate management of remaining pesticides and their packaging - Education of farmers for all phases of pest management (from estab- lishing the need to management of pesticide wastes) 4.2 IPMP Institutional Responsibility Responsibility for the implementation of the IPMP for the ESP will be of the PMT. The PMT will ensure implementation of the IPMP through the organization of training courses and ensuring specific dedicated supervision activities are car- ried out for agricultural activities which may involve the use of pesticides. The PMT will formulate an annual work plan for the implementation of the IPMP for the agricultural activities foreseen by the microcatchement manage- ment plans where pesticide use may take place. The work plan will include the following: a) Identification of pesticide use potential b) Estimate of costs for training sessions for staff and farmers c) potential demonstration activities for farmers, d) field visits to ensure compliance or provide advice, e) coordination with other units of MoEAWF. 3 Annex 1 List of Permitted Crop Protection products 4 List Nr. 1 List of Plant Protection Chemicals/Products Registered, allowed to be imported, traded and used in Alba- nia_May 2013 NR COMMERCIAL NAME ACTIVE INGREDIENT CLASSIFICATION APPLICANT Nr. & Date of Registration 1. AGROFOS 5 GR Chlorpyriphos Insekticid Ypsilon S.A 251/1 14/11/2011 2. ABAMEX 36 EC Abamectine Insekticid-akaricid MAC-GmbH 490 02/10/2012 3. ACROBAT WG Dimetomorph+Mancozeb Fungicid BASF 168/2 18/03/2011 4. ACTARA 25 WG Thiamethoxam Insekticid Syngenta 164/1 25/05/2005 5. AFALON 45 SC Linuron Herbicid Mahkteshim-Agan 338 21/11/2007 6. AFFIRM 095 SG Emamectin benzoate Insekticid Syngenta 30 18/03/2011 7. AGRIA-MANCOZEB 80 WP Mancozeb Fungicid Zenith CropSciences Bulgaria Ltd 441 16/03/2012 8. AKTELLIC 50 EC Pirimiphos Methyl Insekticid Syngenta 5/2 14/11/2008 9. ALIAL 80 WP Fosetil aluminium Fungicid Cheminova Agro 512 08/01/2013 10. ALIEN Tebuconazole Fungicid SIPCAM 495 02/10/2012 11. ALLIETTE FLASH Fosetil aluminium Fungicid BAYER AG 65/1 14/11/2008 12. ALPHAMEX 100 EC Alphacypermethrin Insekticid MAC-GmbH 491 02/10/2012 1 13. ALVERDE Metaflumizone Insekticid BASF 383 18/03/2011 14. AMINOPIELIK 600 SL 2.4 D acid Herbicid Mahkteshim Chemicals Works LtD 485 02/10/2012 15. AMISTAR OPTI Azoxystrobine+Chlorthalonil Fungicid Syngenta 337 21/11/2007 16. AMOK G Gliphosate Herbicid United Phosphorus Limited 455 16/03/2012 17. ANTRACOL 70 WG Propineb Fungicid BAYER AG 73/1 23/02/2007 18. APPLAUD 25 WP Buprofenzin Insekticid Nyhon Nohyaku Co.Ltd 459 16/03/2012 19. ARAGOL L 40 Dimethoat Insekticid SIPCAM 16 18/03/2011 20. ARMETIL C Metalaxyl+Oxiklorur Cu Fungicid Industrias Qiumicas del Valles SA 356 29/12/2010 21. ARMETIL M Metalaxyl+Mancozeb Fungicid Industrias Qiumicas del Valles SA 357 29/12/2010 22. AVAUNT 15 SC Indoxacarb Insekticid Du Pont 284/1 02/10/2012 23. AVIATOR Dimetomorph+Mancozeb Fungicid Mahkteshim Chemicals Works LtD 489 02/10/2012 24. AXIAL 50 EC Pinoxaden Herbicid Syngenta 310 18/03/2011 25. BAKRENI ANTRACOL WP 63 Propineb+Oxiklorur Cu Fungicid BAYER AG 43 01/02/2006 26. BANJO Fluazinam Fungicid Mahkteshim Chemicals Works LtD 486 02/10/2012 27. BASAMID GRANULAR Dazomet Insekticid-nematocid Certis Europe 53/1 09/06/2008 28. BASTA 15 Glufosinate ammonium Herbicid BAYER AG 278 26/02/2010 2 29. BELTHIRUL Bacillus thuringiensis Insekticid biologjik Probelte SA 450 16/03/2012 30. Bi - 58 Dimethoat Insekticid BASF 54/1 02/10/2012 31. BLUESTONE- KANCHEVI Sulfat Cu Fungicid Kanchevi Ltd 519 02/03/2013 32. BORDEAUX MIXTURE Cu metalik Fungicid Manica SpA. 250 08/10/2010 33. BORDO MICRO Cu metalik Fungicid Industrias Qiumicas del Valles SA 140 11/11/2009 34. BOXER Prosulfocarb Herbicid Syngenta 270 08/10/2010 35. BRAVO 500 SC Chlorthalonil Fungicid Syngenta 154/1 14/11/2008 36. BRIK 24 EC Myclobutanil Fungicid Sharda Europe BVBA 426 14/11/2011 37. CABRIO TOP Metiram+Pyraclostrobin Fungicid BASF 40/1 18/03/2011 38. CALIPSO SC 480 Thiacloprid Insekticid BAYER AG 197 24/12/2003 39. CALLISTO 48 SC Mesotrione Herbicid Syngenta 156/2 14/11/2008 40. CANTUS Boscalid Fungicid BASF 53 12/02/2008 41. CAPTAN 80 WG Captan Fungicid Arysta LifeScience 32/2 26/05/2011 42. CARAKOL Metaldehyde Moluskicid Kollant SRL 500 02/10/2012 43. CHAMP DP Hidroxid Cu Fungicid Nufarm SAS 499 02/10/2012 44. CHAMPION 50 Hidroxid Cu Fungicid Nufarm SAS 239/1 18/03/2011 3 45. CHORUS 50 WG Cyprodinil Fungicid Syngenta 155 14/11/2008 46. CIKEYMAN Cymoxanil+Mancozeb Fungicid Industrial Química Key, S.A 470 23/07/2012 47. CLINIC 36 SL Gliphosate Herbicid Nufarm SAS 165 16/07/2010 48. COLLIS Boscalid+Kresoxim-methyl Fungicid BASF 358 29/12/2010 49. CONFIDOR WG 70 Imidacloprid Insekticid BAYER AG 233/1 18/03/2011 50. COOPERBLAU-N 50 WP Hidroxid Cu Fungicid Nitrofarm 525 02/03/2013 51. COPPER OXYCHLORIDE 50 WP Oxiklorur Cu Fungicid Zenith CropSciences Bulgaria Ltd 442 16/03/2012 52. COPPER SULPHATE Cu metalik (Sulfat Cu) Fungicid Manica SpA. 200 26/02/2010 MANICA 25 SC 53. COPROXIDE Hidroxid Cu Fungicid VAPCO 322 21/11/2007 54. CORAGEN 20 SC Chloranthraniliprole Insekticid Du Pont 384 18/03/2011 55. COSAVET DF Squfur Fungicid Sulphur Mills Limited 221 18/03/2011 56. COTRAN MIX Cymoxanil+mancozeb+folpet Fungicid Tragusa 420 14/11/2011 57. COTRAN PLUS Cymoxanil+Mancozeb+Sulfat Cu Fungicid Tragusa 498 02/10/2012 58. CRIPTAN 50 WP Captan Fungicid VAPCO 321 21/11/2007 59. CUPROFIX 30 DISPERS Mancozeb+Sulfat Cu Fungicid Cerexagri 257/1 14/11/2011 4 60. CUPROSATE GOLD M 72 WP Cymoxanil+Mancozeb Fungicid Zenith CropSciences Bulgaria Ltd 446 16/03/2012 61. CUPROSULF Sulfat Cu Fungicid Industrias Qiumicas del Valles SA 110 11/11/2009 62. CURENOX 50 Oxiklorur Cu Fungicid Industrias Qiumicas del Valles SA 103 11/11/2009 63. CURZATE R Oxiklorur Cu+Cymoxanil Fungicid Du Pont 139/1 29/12/2010 64. CURZATE M Cymoxanil+Mancozeb Fungicid Du Pont 258/1 23/07/2012 65. CURZATE M 44 WP Cymoxanil+Mancozeb Fungicid Du Pont 514 08/01/2013 66. CURZATE R Cymoxanil+Oxiklorur Cu Fungicid Du Pont 139/1 29/12/2010 67. CURZATE R DF Cymoxanil+Oxiklorur Cu Fungicid Du Pont 203/1 14/11/2008 68. CYMOXANIL 45 % WG Cymoxanil Fungicid Globachem nv 456 16/03/2012 69. CYPERGAN 10 EC Cypermethrine Insekticid Phytorgan SA 472 23/07/2012 70. CYPERMEX PLUS 550 EC Chlorpyriphos+Cypermethrine Insekticid MAC-GmbH 465 23/07/2012 71. CYTHRIN 100 EC Cypermethrine Insekticid Agriphar 140 16/07/2010 72. DACONIL 72 SC Chlorthalonil Fungicid Syngenta 33/2 08/10/2010 73. DACUS BAIT 100 Proteina te hidrolizuara Feromon Nitrofarm 479 23/07/2012 74. DAMINE 500 SL 2.4 D acid Herbicid Agriphar 227 01/02/2006 75. DANEEL 700 WDG Dithianon Fungicid BASF 259/1 02/03/2013 5 76. DANTOP 50 WG Clothianidin Insekticid Sumitomo Chemical 324 21/11/2007 77. DECIS 2.5 EC Deltamethrine Insekticid BAYER AG 49/1 01/02/2006 78. DELFOS 5 G Chlorpyriphos Insekticid Industrial Química Key, S.A. 504 08/01/2013 79. DELTA - M 2.5 Deltamethrine Insekticid MAC-GmbH 492 02/10/2012 80. DICARZOL 50 SP Formetanate hcl. Insekticid-Acaricid Gowan Comercio International e Servicos 528 02/03/2013 81. DIFCOR 250 EC Difenoconazole Fungicid Globachem nv 457 16/03/2012 82. DIFEND Difenoconazole Fungicid dizifekt. Globachem nv 517 08/01/2013 83. DIFO 25 EC Difenoconazole Fungicid Sharda Europe BVBA 414 26/05/2011 84. DIMETHON Dimethoat Insekticid Industrial Química Key, S.A. 466 23/07/2012 85. DIREX 7.5 GR Chlorpyriphos Insekticid Kollant SRL 496 02/10/2012 86. DITHANE 75 WG Mancozeb Fungicid Efthymiadis SA 362 29/12/2010 87. DITHANE M-45 blue 72 WP Mancozeb Fungicid Efthymiadis 422 14/11/2011 88. DIVIDEND 030 FS Difenoconazole Fungicid dizifekt. Syngenta 178/2 08/01/2013 89. DOMARK 4 EC Tetraconazole Fungicid ISAGRO S.p.A 180 14/11/2008 90. DOMINATOR 360 SL Gliphosate Herbicid Efthymiadis SA 363 29/12/2010 91. DURSBAN 480 EC Chlorpyriphos-ethyl Insekticid Efthymiadis SA 364 29/12/2010 6 92. ECHO-TRAP RB Feromon+Lambda cyhalothrin Feromon VIORYL S.A 223 25/05/2005 93. EFDACON 40 EC Dimethoat Insekticid Efthymiadis SA 162/1 21/11/2007 94. ELECTIS 75 WG Mancozeb+Zoxamide Fungicid Gowan Comercio International e Servicos 529 02/03/2013 95. ELUMIS 105 OD Mesotrione+Nicosulfuron Herbicid Syngenta 515 08/01/2013 96. ENOVIT METHYL Thiophanate methyl Fungicid SIPCAM 11/2 14/11/2008 97. ENVIDOR SC 240 Spirodiclofen Insekticid-akaricid BAYER AG 240/1 18/03/2011 98. EQUATION CONTACT Famoxadone+Mancozeb Fungicid Du Pont 195/1 14/11/2008 99. EQUATION PRO Famoxadone+Cymoxanil Fungicid Du Pont 157/2 29/12/2010 100. EQUIP Foramsulfuron+Isoxadifen-ethyl Herbicid BAYER AG 241 26/04/2006 101. ESCARAT Bromadiolone Rodenticid CISAADRIATICA S.a.s. 478 23/07/2012 102. ESTERON 60 EC 2.4 D acid Herbicid Efthymiadis SA 366 29/12/2010 103. FALCON EC 460 Spiroxamine+Tebuconazole+Triadimenol Fungicid BAYER AG 209/1 11/11/2009 104. FANTIC F WG Benalaxil-M+Folpet Fungicid ISAGRO S.p.A 327 21/11/2007 105. FANTIC M WP Benalaxil-M+Mancozeb Fungicid ISAGRO S.p.A 328 21/11/2007 106. FASTAC Alphacypermethrin Insekticid BASF 28 12/02/2008 107. FLORAMITE 240 SC Bifenazate Acaricid Chemptura Netherlands B.V. 260 08/10/2010 7 108. FOCUS ULTRA Cycloxydim Herbicid BASF 61/2 08/01/2013 109. FOLICUR EW 250 Tebuconazole Fungicid BAYER AG 242/1 18/03/2011 110. FOLIO GOLD 537.5 SC Metalaxyl-M+Chlorthalonil Fungicid Syngenta 17/1 11/11/2009 111. FOLIZOL Tebuconazole Fungicid Tragusa 402 26/05/2011 112. FOLPAN 80 WDG Folpet Fungicid Mahkteshim Chemicals Works LtD 400 26/05/2011 113. FORCE 0.5 G Tefluthrin Insekticid Syngenta 2/2 08/01/2013 114. FORTIN Gliphosate Herbicid Industrial Química Key, S.A. 469 23/07/2012 115. FOSBEL 80 WG Fosetil aluminium Fungicid Probelte SA 451 16/03/2012 116. FOSBEL PLUS Fosetil aluminium+Mancozeb Fungicid Probelte SA 452 16/03/2012 117. FRUMIDOR Thiophanate methyl+Maneb Fungicid SIPCAM 12/2 14/11/2008 118. FUNGURAN OH 50 WP Hidroxid Cu Fungicid Spiess URANIA Chemicals GmbH 253/1 26/05/2011 119. FURY 10 EC Zeta cypermethrine Insekticid FMC Corporation 21/2 18/03/2011 120. FUSILADE FORTE 15 EC Fluazifop-p-butyl Herbicid Syngenta 105/2 16/03/2012 121. GALBEN C 4-33 Benalaxil+Oxiklorur Cu Fungicid FMC Corporation 187/1 14/11/2008 122. GALBEN F 8-44 Benalaxil+Folpet Fungicid FMC Corporation 188/1 14/11/2008 123. GALBEN M 8-65 Benalaxil+Mancozeb Fungicid FMC Corporation 189/1 14/11/2008 8 124. GARANTEX Bromadiolone Rodenticid. DETIA DEGESCH 308/1 23/07/2012 125. GIBB PLUS Gibberellin A4/A7 Fitoregullator Globachem nv 501 02/10/2012 126. GLYPH UP 36 SL Gliphosate Herbicid Efthymiadis 408 26/05/2011 127. GLYWEED Gliphosate Herbicid Sabero Europe BV 404 26/05/2011 128. GRAND 48 SL Ethephon Fitoregullator Efthymiadis SA 292/1 23/07/2012 129. GRANSTAR 75 WG Tribenuron methyl Herbicid Du Pont 123 16/07/2010 130. GRISU Iprodione Fungicid SIPCAM 506 08/01/2013 131. GUFOS Chlorpyriphos Insekticid Tragusa 350 29/12/2010 132. GUFOS 5 G Chlorpyriphos Insekticid Tragusa 416 26/05/2011 133. GYPSO GD Oxiklorur Cu Fungicid Arysta LifeScience 263 30/10/2006 134. HIDROXID CU Hidroxid Cu Fungicid Willowood Limited 294 23/02/2007 135. HUSSAR OD Iodosulfuron-methyl-sodium+ Herbicid BAYER AG 243/1 18/03/2011 Mefenpyr-diethyl+Isoxadifen-ethyl 136. IMIDAMEX 70 WG Imidacloprid Insekticid MAC-GmbH 473 23/07/2012 137. IMIDAN 50 WP Phosmet Insekticid Gowan Comercio International e Servicos 530 02/03/2013 138. ICANOS 4 OD Nicosulfuron Herbicid Nufarm SAS 527 02/03/2013 9 139. INDAR 5 EW Fenbuconazole Fungicid Efthymiadis 409 26/05/2011 140. INFINITO Propam-hydrochl+Fluopicolide Fungicid BAYER AG 190 26/02/2010 141. IPIRON 45 SC Linuron Herbicid Novafitto IPC 102 11/11/2009 142. KAISO Lambda Cyhalothrin Insekticid Nufarm SAS 463 23/07/2012 143. KARATE ZEON 5 SC Lambda Cyhalothrin Insekticid Syngenta 87/1 14/11/2008 144. KARATHANE STAR 35 EC Mepthyl-dinocap Fungicid Efthymiadis 386 18/03/2011 145. KENTAN WG Hidroxid Cu Fungicid ISAGRO S.p.A 296 23/02/2007 146. KOCIDE 2000 Hidroxid Cu Fungicid Du Pont 297 23/02/2007 147. KOX Hidroxid Cu Fungicid Tragusa 380 18/03/2011 148. KUMULUS WG Squfur Fungicid BASF 55/1 30/10/2006 149. LANNATE 25 WP Methomyl Insekticid Du Pont 201 26/02/2010 150. LASER 480 EC Spinosad Insekticid Efthymiadis 367 29/12/2010 151. LEONE 36 SL Glyphosate Herbicid Ypsilon SA 430 14/11/2011 152. LINTUR 70 WG Triasulfuron+Dicamba Herbicid Syngenta 272 08/10/2010 153. LOGRAN 20 WG Triasulfuron Herbicid Syngenta 273 08/10/2010 154. LUMAX 537.5 SE Mesotrione+Terbuthylazin+S-metolachlor Herbicid Syngenta 516 08/01/2013 10 155. LYPHASE 36 SL Gliphosate Herbicid Phytorgan SA 471 23/07/2012 156. MAC-DIFENOCONAZOLE 250 EC Difenoconazole Fungicid MAC-GmbH 521 02/03/2013 157. MANFIL 75 WG Mancozeb Fungicid Indofil Chemicals 423 14/11/2011 158. MANFIL 80 WP Mancozeb Fungicid Indofil Chemicals 424 14/11/2011 159. MATCH 050 EC Lufenuron Insekticid Syngenta 163/2 08/01/2013 160. MAVRIK 2 F Tau-fluvalinate Insekticid Mahkteshim ChemicalsWorks LtD 487 02/10/2012 161. MELODY COMBI WG 65.3 Iprovalicarb+Folpet Fungicid BAYER AG 64 03/04/2004 162. MERCURY 83 WP Captan Fungicid Ypsilon S.A 244/1 14/11/2011 163. MERPAN 80 WG Captan Fungicid Alfa Agricultural Supplies SA. 4/1 14/11/2008 164. MERPAN WDG Captan Fungicid Mahkteshim Chemicals Works 401 26/05/2011 165. MESUROL GRANULAT Methiocarb Insekticid-moluskicid BAYER AG 66/1 14/11/2008 166. METALDEHYDE 5 % GR Metaldehyde Moluskic. VAPCO 323 21/11/2007 167. METALIM Metaldehyde Moluskicid CISAADRIATICA S.a.s. 477 23/07/2012 168. METRIPHAR 70 WDG Metribuzine Herbicid Agriphar 287 12/02/2008 169. MEVAXIL 25 WP Metalaxyl Fungicid Industrias Qiumicas del Valles SA 449 16/03/2012 170. MICROTHIOL DISPERSS Squfur Fungicid Cerexagri-UPL 245/1 14/11/2011 11 171. MIDAS Imidacloprid Insekticid Tragusa 351 29/12/2010 172. MIDO 20 SL Imidacloprid Insekticid Sharda Europe BVBA 405 26/05/2011 173. MIKAL FLASH Fosetil aluminium+Folpet Fungicid BAYER AG 200/1 14/11/2008 174. MIKAL PREMIUM Folpet+Fosetil aluminium+Iprovalicarb Fungicid BAYER AG 497 02/10/2012 175. MINUET GEO Zeta cypermethrin Insekticid FMC Chemical Sprl 513 08/01/2013 176. MOSPILAN 20 SG Acetamiprid Insekticid Nisso Chemical Europe 176/1 23/07/2012 177. MOVENTO SC 100 Spirotetramat Insekticid BAYER AG 518 08/01/2013 178. MOXIMATE Cymoxanil+mancozeb Fungicid Indofil Chemicals 428 14/11/2011 179. MYSTIC 25 WG Tebuconazole Fungicid Nufarm SAS 431 14/11/2011 180. NASA Gliphosate Herbicid Zenith CropSciences Bulgaria Ltd 444 16/03/2012 181. NATIVO 75 WG Tryfloxistrobin+Tebuconazole Fungicid BAYER AG 283 26/02/2010 182. NAUTILE DG Cymoxanil+Mancozeb Fungicid Cerexagri 246/1 26/05/2011 183. NEMACUR 40 LE Fenamiphos Nematocid Irvita Plant Protection N.V 509 08/01/2013 184. NEORAM WG Oxiklorur Cu Fungicid ISAGRO S.p.A 302 23/02/2007 185. NEOSTOP 1 % DP chlorpropham Fitoregullator Agriphar 110 16/07/2010 186. NEOTOPSIN 70 WG Thiophanate methyl Fungicid Efthymiadis 411 26/05/2011 12 187. NICOMEX PLUS WG Thifensulfuron-methyl+Nicosulfuron Herbicid MAC-GmbH 520 02/03/2013 188. NICOSH 4 SC Nicosulfuron Herbicid Sharda Europe BVBA 407 26/05/2011 189. NILBU Myclobutanil Fungicid Industrial Química Key, S.A. 503 08/01/2013 190. NITROPOL S Vaj mineral Insekticid-akaricid Nitrofarm 454 16/03/2012 191. NOIDIO GOLD 10 EC Penconazole Fungicid AGRIMIX 2 55/1 26/05/2011 192. NUPRID SUPREME SC Imidacloprid Insekticid Nufarm SAS 461 16/03/2012 193. NURELLE D Chlorpyriphos+Cypermethrine Insekticid Agriphar 50/1 26/05/2011 194. OIL-GUR Vaj mineral Insekticid Tragusa 352 29/12/2010 195. ONIL Triadimenol Fungicid Industrial Química Key, S.A. 502 08/01/2013 196. OPTIX R DISPERSS Fosetil aluminium+Cu metalik Fungicid United Phosphorus Limited 385 18/03/2011 197. ORIUS 25 EW Tebuconazole Fungicid Irvita Plant Protection N.V 510 08/01/2013 198. ORIUUS 6 FS Tebuconazole Fungicid dizifekt. Mahkteshim Chemicals Works LtD 483 02/10/2012 199. ORTUS Fenpyroximate Acaricid Nyhon Nohyaku Co. Ltd 475 23/07/2012 200. OVIPRON TOP Vajra te parafinuara Insekticid Cerexagri-UPL 432 14/11/2011 201. PARASOL Hidroxid Cu Fungicid Nufarm GmbH & Co KG 332 21/11/2007 202. PEAK 75 WG Prosulfuron Herbicid Syngenta 271 08/10/2010 13 203. PEN 10 EC Penconazole Fungicid Sharda Europe BVBA 425 14/11/2011 204. PENCOMEX 100 EC Penconazole Fungicid MAC-GmbH 522 02/03/2013 205. PENCONAZOLE NITROFARM 10 EC Penconazole Fungicid Nitrofarm 220 18/03/2011 206. PENCOZEB 75 DG Mancozeb Fungicid Cerexagri 360 29/12/2010 207. PENDIMEX 330 EC Pendimethalin Herbicid MAC-GmbH 474 23/07/2012 208. PHOSTOXIN TABLETS Aluminium phosphide Insekticid fumigant Detia Degesch 83/2 23/07/2012 209. PIRIMOR 50 WG Pirimicarb Insekticid Syngenta 89/1 14/11/2008 210. PISON Chlorpyriphos Insekticid Mahkteshim Chemicals Works LtD 484 02/10/2012 211. POLECI Deltamethrine Insekticid Sharda Europe BVBA 476 23/07/2012 212. POLITHIOL Vaj mineral Insekticid Cerexagri 293 23/02/2007 213. POLTIGLIA BORDOLESE Sulfat Cu Fungicid Industria Chimica, 265 30/10/2006 SCARAMAGNAN BLU Scaramagnan Alberto & Co. 214. POLTIGLIA BORDOLESE Sulfat Cu Fungicid Cerexagri 249/1 26/05/2011 DISPERSS BLU 215. POLYRAM WG Metiram Fungicid BASF 57/2 16/03/2012 216. PREVICUR ENERGY Propam-hydrochl+Fosetil alumin. Fungicid BAYER AG 276 26/02/2010 217. PROPAMEX 722 SL Propamocarb - hydrochlorid Fungicid MAC-GmbH 507 08/01/2013 14 218. PROPI SUPER 25 EC Propiconazole Fungicid Sharda Europe BVBA 406 26/05/2011 219. PROPLANT Propamocarb-hydrochloride Fungicid Agriphar 204/1 26/02/2010 220. PROXANIL Cymoxanil+Propam-hydrochl Fungicid Agriphar 361 29/12/2010 221. PYRINEX 48 EC Chlorpyriphos-ethyl Insekticid Mahkteshim ChemicalsWorks LtD 524 02/03/2013 222. PYRUS 400 SC Pyrimethanil Fungicid Agriphar 235/1 26/05/2011 223. QUADRIS 25 SC Azoxystrobine Fungicid Syngenta 108/2 16/03/2012 224. QUANTUM SC Dimetomorph Fungicid Mahkteshim Chemicals Works LtD 488 02/10/2012 225. QUICKPHOS Aluminium phosphide Insekticid fumigant United Phosphorus Limited 216 16/07/2010 226. RAMSIDE 20 WP Cu metalik Fungicid Nitrofarm SA 429 14/11/2011 227. RAXIL FS 060 Tebuconazole Fungicid dizifekt. BAYER AG 199/1 14/11/2008 228. REGLONE Diquat Herbicid Syngenta 90/1 14/11/2008 229. REGLONE FORTE Diquat Herbicid Syngenta 76/1 21/11/2007 230. RELDAN 225 EC Chlorpyriphos-ethyl Insekticid Efthymiadis SA 365 29/12/2010 231. REVUS 250 SC Mandipropamid Fungicid Syngenta 10 18/03/2011 232. RIDOMIL Gold MZ 68 WG Metalaxyl-M+Mancozeb Fungicid Syngenta 151/1 30/10/2006 233. RIDOMIL GOLD PLUS 42.5 Metalaxyl-M+Oxiklorur Cu Fungicid Syngenta 120/1 16/07/2010 15 234. RIDOMILGOLD COMBI 45WG Folpet+Metalaxyl-M Fungicid Syngenta 27 24/05/2004 235. RIZA 25 WG Tebuconazole Fungicid Cheminova A/S 462 16/03/2012 236. ROBAN WAX BLOCK Difenacoum Rodenticid. PelGar 119 16/07/2010 237. ROGOR L 40 Dimethoat Insekticid ISAGRO S.p.A 186/1 14/11/2008 238. ROQUAT Diquat dibromide Herbicid Globachem nv 458 16/03/2012 239. ROUNDUP Gliphosate Herbicid MONSANTO 122/1 26/02/2010 240. SCORE 250 EC Difenoconazole Fungicid Syngenta 113/1 14/11/2008 241. SENCOR WG 70 Metribuzine Herbicid BAYER AG 111/1 14/11/2008 242. SHARALPHOS Fosfid alumini Insekticid Sharda Europe BVBA 427 14/11/2011 243. SHARMET Metaldehyde Moluskicid Sharda Europe BVBA 445 16/03/2012 244. SHAVIT F Folpet+Triadimenol Fungicid Mahkteshim Chemicals Works LtD 433 16/03/2012 245. SIGNUM Boscalid+Pyraclostrobin Fungicid BASF 141 12/02/2008 246. SLUG GILL GB Ferric phosphate Moluskic. Efthymiadis 413 26/05/2011 247. SOLUTION PRO Cymoxanil+Oxiklorur Cu Fungicid Zenith CropSciences Bulgaria Ltd 464 23/07/2012 248. SPARVIERO Lambda Cyhalothrin Insekticid SIPCAM 505 08/01/2013 249. SPIT Triadimenol Fungicid Tragusa 403 26/05/2011 16 250. SPRITZ-HORMIN 500 2.4 D sodium Herbicid Nufarm GmbH & Co KG 96/1 14/11/2008 251. STOMP 330 EC Pendimethalin Herbicid BASF 130 12/02/2008 252. STROBY WG Kresoxim-methyl Fungicid BASF 106/1 26/05/2011 253. SUCCESS TM 0.24 CB Spinosad Insekticid Efthymiadis SA 368 29/12/2010 254. SULFOLAC 80 WG Squfur Fungicid Agrostulln GmbH, 202 26/02/2010 255. SULPHUR 80 WG Squfur Fungicid Ypsilon S.A 304 23/02/2007 256. SUMI-ALPHA 5 EC Esfenvalerat Insekticid Sumitomo Chemical 29/2 14/11/2011 257. SUN OIL 7 E Vajra te parafinuara Insekticid Efthymiadis 412 26/05/2011 258. SWITCH 62.5 WG Fludioxonil+Cyprodinil Fungicid Syngenta 274 08/10/2010 259. SYLLIT 400 SC Dodine Fungicid Agriphar 35/1 14/11/2011 260. TAIFUN Gliphosate Herbicid Feinchemie Schwebda GmbH 511 08/01/2013 261. TALENDO Proquinazide Fungicid Du Pont 305 23/02/2007 262. TATTOO Propamocarb-hydrochlorid+Mancozeb Fungicid BAYER AG 201/1 14/11/2008 263. TEBUCONAZOLE 25 EW Tebuconazole Fungicid Sharda Europe BVBA 415 26/05/2011 264. TELDOR SC 500 Fenhexamid Fungicid BAYER AG 196 24/12/2003 265. TERCEL Dithianon+Pyraclostrobin Fungicid BASF 211/1 02/03/2013 17 266. TERRAGUARD PLUS EC Chlorpyriphos+Cypermethrine Insekticid Zenith CropSciences Bulgaria Ltd 523 02/03/2013 267. THIANOSAN 80 WG Thiram Fungicid Taminco Italia Srl 526 02/03/2013 268. THIOVIT JET 80 WG Squfur Fungicid Syngenta 152/1 14/11/2008 269. TILT 250 EC Propiconazole Fungicid Syngenta 37/2 08/10/2010 270. TINA Abamectine Insekticid Industrial Química Key, S.A. 468 23/07/2012 271. TINAMEX Abamectine Insekticid-akaricid Tragusa 353 29/12/2010 272. TITUS 25 WG Rimsulfuron Herbicid Du Pont 143/1 29/12/2010 273. TOPAS 100 EC Penconazole Fungicid Syngenta 36/2 08/10/2010 274. TORNADO 5 EC Quizalofop-P-ethyl Herbicid Zenith CropSciences Bulgaria Ltd 443 16/03/2012 275. TOUCHDOWN Gliphosate Herbicid Syngenta 177 23/04/2003 276. TRAGLI Gliphosate Herbicid Tragusa 354 29/12/2010 277. TRAXI Oxiklorur Cu Fungicid Tragusa 381 18/03/2011 278. TRIMEXA 75 WG Tribenuron methyl Herbicid MAC-GmbH 508 08/01/2013 279. TRIOMAX 45 WP Cymoxanil+Oxiklorur Cu+Mancozeb Fungicid Zenith CropSciences Bulgaria Ltd 447 16/03/2012 280. TRISCABOL DG Ziram Fungicid Cerexagri-UPL 336 21/11/2007 281. TRISOL 40 Dimethoat Insekticid Tragusa 355 29/12/2010 18 282. U 46 M FLUID 500 GL MCPA Herbicid Nufarm GmbH & Co KG 63/2 23/07/2012 283. UARDIN Chlorpyriphos+Cypermethrine Insekticid Industrial Química Key, S.A. 467 23/07/2012 284. UNICORN DF Squfur+Tebuconazole Fungicid Sulphur Mills Limited 453 16/03/2012 285. VAPCOMORE 20 % SP Acetamiprid Insekticid VAPCO 320 21/11/2007 286. VERITA Fenamidone+Fosetil aluminium Fungicid BAYER AG 198 24/12/2003 287. VERTIMEC 018 EC Abamectine Insekticid Syngenta 181/1 14/11/2008 288. VITENE ULTRA SC Cymoxanil Fungicid SIPCAM 494 02/10/2012 289. VITRA 40 WG Hidroxid Cu Fungicid Industrias Qiumicas del Valles SA 448 16/03/2012 290. VIVANDO Metrafenone Fungicid BASF 359 29/12/2010 291. VYDATE 10 L Oxamil Insekticid-akaricid Du Pont 307/1 02/10/2012 292. YPER 50 WP Hidroxid Cu Fungicid Efthymiadis 410 26/05/2011 293. YUMP Alphacypermethrin Insekticid Tragusa 421 14/11/2011 294. ZATO 50 WG Trifloxystrobine Fungicid BAYER AG 210 28/10/2004 295. ZATO PLUS Trifloxystrobine+Captan Fungicid BAYER AG 190 16/07/2010 296. ZETANIL M Cymoxanil+Mancozeb Fungicid SIPCAM 145 18/03/2011 297. ZIRAM 76 WG Ziram Fungicid Efthymiadis 217 25/05/2005 19 298. ZIRAM GU 76 WG Ziram Fungicid Tragusa 382 18/03/2011 299. ZOLFO VENTILATO SCOREVOLE Squfur Fungicid Zolfindustria Srl 460 16/03/2012 Note: This list finishes with the Number 299 (two hundred and ninety nine) List Nr. 2 List of Plant Protection Chemicals/Products NOT ALLOWED to be imported but only to be Traded and Used in Albania _ May 2013 NR COMMERCIAL NAME ACTIVE INGREDIENT CLASSIFICATION APPLICANT Nr. & Date of Registration 1. ABA-MEX Abamectine Acaricid Willowood Limited 277 23/02/2007 2. ABAMEX 1.8 EC Abamectine Insekticid-akaricid VAPCO 165 25/05/2005 3. ACARIDOIL 13 SL Kripe kaliumi Insekticid VIORYL S.A 30 25/05/2005 4. AGROFOS 48 EC Chlorpyriphos Insekticid Ypsilon S.A 236 26/04/2006 5. ANTRACOL 70 WP Propineb Fungicid BAYER AG 73/1 23/02/2007 6. BRIK 24 EC Myclobutanil Fungicid FARMA-CHEM S.A. 313 25/05/2007 7. CAZA 20 SL Imidacloprid Insekticid FARMA-CHEM S.A. 6 25/05/2007 8. CHLORONIL 75 WP Chlorthalonil Fungicid VAPCO 288 23/02/2007 9. CLORTOSIP WP Chlorthalonil Fungicid SIPCAM 14/1 30/10/2006 20 10. CONFIDOR SL 200 Imidacloprid Insekticid BAYER AG 233/1 18/03/2011 11. CURTINE V Mancozeb+Cymoxanil Fungicid VAPCO 172/1 23/02/2007 12. DELTARIN 2.5 Deltamethrine Insekticid VAPCO 173/1 23/02/2007 13. DIMETHOATE Dimethoat Insekticid Ypsilon S.A 280 23/02/2007 14. DURSBAN 5 GR Chlorpyriphos Insekticid Efthymiadis SA 161 12/02/2008 15. ENO 70 Thiophanate methyl Fungicid Willowood Limited 238 26/04/2006 16. ESTEMIC 24 EC Myclobutanil Fungicid VIORYL S.A 224 25/05/2005 17. FOSIM COMBI Fosetil aluminium+Folpet Fungicid AGRIMIX 256 26/04/2006 18. GENOXONE ZX Trichlopyr+2.4 D acid Herbicid Agriphar 269 12/02/2008 19. GROUND UP Gliphosate IPA Herbicid VAPCO 174 23/02/2007 20. GUARDIAN EC Acetochlor Herbicid MONSANTO 147 05/02/2001 21. HARNESS EC Acetochlor Herbicid MONSANTO 146 05/02/2001 22. IMIDAN 50 WP Phosmet Insekticid GOWAN 295 23/02/2007 23. IRAM Cu metalik Fungicid AGRIMIX 254 26/04/2006 24. MELODY COMBI 43.5 WP Iprovalicarb+Folpet Fungicid BAYER AG 64 03/04/2004 25. METRIPHAR 70 WDG Metribuzine Herbicid Agriphar 287 12/02/2008 21 26. MOCAP 10 G Ethoprophos Insekticid BAYER AG 300 23/02/2007 27. NEMAPHOS 400 EC Fenamiphos Insekticid-nematocid Shining Fine Chemical Co Ltd 247 26/04/2006 28. OMITE 57 EW Propargite Acaricid Uniroyal Chemical 330 21/11/2007 29. PREVICUR 607 SL Propamocarb-hydrochlorid Fungicid BAYER AG 78/1 23/02/2007 30. PROMO Propamocarb-hydrochlorid Fungicid AGRIMIX 230 01/02/2006 31. PYCHLOREX 480 EC Chlorpyriphos Insekticid Agriphar 232 01/02/2006 32. RIDO 72 Cymoxanil+Mancozeb Fungicid Willowood Limited 267 30/10/2006 33. RONIN 25 WP Buprofezin Insekticid Shining Fine Chemical Co Ltd 268 30/10/2006 34. SELECT SUPER Clethodim Herbicid Arysta LifeScience 97 12/02/2008 35. SILIGOR 40 Dimethoat Insekticid Willowood Limited 259 26/04/2006 36. SNAIL GRANULES Metaldehyde Moluskic. DETIA DEGESCH 258 26/04/2006 37. SYLLIT 65 Dodine Fungicid Agriphar 34 25/05/2005 38. TIOFANAT-METYL 70 WG Thiophanate methyl Fungicid Ypsilon S.A 41 01/02/2006 39. TRIGARD 75 WP Cyromazine Insekticid Syngenta 52 30/10/2006 40. VALETE Fosetil aluminium Fungicid VAPCO 226 01/02/2006 41. VAPCOTOP 70 WP Thiophanate methyl Fungicid VAPCO 221 25/05/2005 22 42. VYDATE 10 G Oxamil Insekticid-nematocid Du Pont 56 30/10/2006 43. YPSITOXIN Aluminium Phosphide Insekticid fumigant Ypsilon S.A 281 23/02/2007 Note: This list finishes with the Number 43 (forty three) 23 Report on Public Consultations First Public Consultation Workshop for the Preparation of the Environmental Ser- vices Project Venue: 31 July 2013, Tirana Participants: Annex 1 Resources persons: Dr Arsene Proko, Directorate of Forests and Pasture Dr Nehat Collaku, PMT Mr Tapani Ruotsalainen, Consultant Team Leader Ms Gitte Andersen, Consultant Social Assesment Expert Ms Laura Susani, Consultant Environmental Assessment Expert Mr Zamir Dedej Mr Thans Goga Mr Genti Kromidha Minutes of the Meeting Compiled by Thanas Goga The meeting was opened at 09:30 at Hotel “Doro City” Tirana. A. – Welcome speech and opening remarks by Mr. Arsen Proko, Director of the Forestry and Pastures Directorate A welcome speech and opening remarks were delivered by Mr. Arsen Proko, Director of Forest and Pastures. Mr. Proko emphasized the importance of the project and the new concept it aims at introducing with regards to the environmental services payment (ESP), which is as he said that “one is being paid to protect the forest and not to use it.” Mr. Proko went on to say that the project should be supported by all relevant institutions and stakeholders as it is the first project based on the newly-introduced principle and ap- proach as above-mentioned, while it has to also be implemented in line with other re- forms that have already been undertaken or are ongoing for the management of envi- ronment resources, and he believed, that this new project is going to considerably im- prove the situation of the forest sector in the country. For instance, the draft law, --- which is currently under consultation with relevant stakeholders that is expected to be approved and enacted by the coming Parliament, following the parliamentary elections of June 23, 2013, --- will have to clearly stipulate the system and mechanisms for the National Forestation Fund, which shall also be one of the important elements of the legal framework to be taken into consideration by this project. Furthermore, Mr. Proko believed that the efficiency of the project needs to be evaluated by clearly-defined and measureable indicators and through transparent means. In this 24 view, Mr. Proko asked from the project implementation team to pay close attention to the following suggestions: 1. First, we need to make sure that we do the right identification of actors/stakeholders, such as: (a) donors (those who pay for the services); (b) institutions and entities that are causing pollution; as well as to rightly define (c) the size of ES payments. 2. Secondly, we need to develop an operational scheme to provide for programe’s man- agement tools and activities (there are concept notes, studies and other pieces of re- search conducted so far – that have laid the groundwork and have helped to establish a general idea on how to quantify and qualify payments for water and forest management services); 3. Thirdly, we have to also pay attention to elements of the climatic change, – i.e., relat- ed to carbon sequestration (we already have some experience on this matter, and we know where the weak point lie in this direction); 4. And of course, we need to increase the efficiency of our action, and make sure that the monitoring and evaluation system that we have in place leaves no room for abuse. There is a very important element related to the metrics to be used, due to the high vari- ance related to the measurement of forests’ productivity (design/modeling/evaluation – of instruments shall be very important elements of this project), said Mr. Proko. That is why, he believed the existing national inventory of forests shall serve as a good basis to provide with information related to important elements that will define the evaluation and monitoring tools (or the equations that will come up with accurate measurement of productivity). With regards to the ESP paymet system, Mr. Proko stated also that the evaluation meth- odology for the multi-use of forests is also subject of discussion between experts, await- ing still appropriate final definitions. Furthermore, Mr. Proko stressed that the role of the members of the scientific communi- ty and academia (university, forest experts, individual experts, etc.), as well as private environmental/forest experts is crucial in the implementation phase of the project. For example, Mr. Proko suggested that researchers can make better use of the University’s Center for Forest Research and innovation. Finally, Mr. Proko stated his office’s commitment to help and assist the team with carry- ing out the study and implementing the project, and gave then the floor to Indufor’s co n- sultants to present the project and findings of their work so far. B. – Presentation of the Team and the new Project Concept By Mr. Tapani Ruotsalainen, Indufor Oy Project Team Leader Mr. Tapani Ruotsalainen, Consultant Team Leader, took the floor and presented the team of experts: Ms. Laura Susani – environmental management and social framework consultant, Ms. Gitte Andersen - international socio-economic consultant, Mr. Genti Kromidha - project coordinator, Mr. Thanas Goga - local socio-economic consultant, that are currently working with the preparation of the project document. Additionally, 25 Mr. Ruotsalainen explained that the teamis tasked with the preparation of the project un- til the end of October 2013, while by the beginning of September, - as the next consulta- tion meeting are scheduled to take place by mid-September, - it will be able to have more information on the project progress and plan. He said that the process will go through a consultation process and today’s workshop the first step, as part of a wider consultation that has already started. He invited the partici- pants to present their opinions, comments and suggestions, which will be recorded in the minutes of the meeting of the workshop, and will be distributed as widely as possible with all the participants in the workshop, as well as other stakeholders. The project will try to make an assessment of the previous project findings and identify the new mecha- nism for the ES payment scheme. He went on presenting the project’s overall and specif- ic objectives, and elaborating on the project’s goals and key components. The three main components proposed are: 1. IPARD like Agro-environmental measures 2. Payment for the Environmental Services (PES) 3. Institutional support and project monitoring Additionally, Mr. Ruotsalainen stated that the new project is expected to be a 5 year pro- ject and the estimated financial value of EUR 22 million – and in this view, we need to come up with supporting rationale to the government and the stakeholders on why should we spend this new amount of money. One of the main reasons is to help provide for making sustainable what we have achieved so far from previous projects, related to the improvement of:  resource management and erosion control; as well as  income for individuals and local government units.  Mr. Ruotsalainen stressed that financial sustainability is very important. The capacities have been strengthened for resource management but the question is on how to continue in the future with implementation. The first component focuses in a grant program and the support to the management plans. The second one deals with building correct mechanism for supporting PES, car- bon sequestration and the payment for watershed services schemes. While, the third component involves a capacity-building process, good-governance improvement measures, empowerment of beneficiaries, as well as the implementing forest manage- ment information systems and forest inventory. Asking the participants of the workshop on who did they think shall be the responsible institution for the PES scheme, and who do you think is willing to participate in the im- plementation of this scheme, Mr. Ruotsalainen opened the floor to questions and com- ments from the participants. C. - Question (Q) and Answers (A) Session Mr. Ylli Hoxha – Director of Forest Department, Agency of Environment and Forests 26 Mr. Hoxa posed three questions, requesting further clarifications regarding the compo- nents of the project introduced by Mr. Ruotsalainen: Q1 – Component 1/Point 3 – Drafting and implementation of micro-catchment man- agement plans In view of the implementation of micro-catchment management plans, will state forests be also included in the suggested management plans? A1- Mr. Ruotsalainen answer: It is not practical to divide a micro-catchment area in a communal and state-owned one part. Therefore, in this view, we refer to management plans that will include all the area, and not some parts of it. However, this is something that we need to discuss amongst us on what shall be the best possible approach. For ex- ample, shall it be the identification of the areas according to the ownership classification and later on treating them according to this classification, or shall we use another ap- proach. That of course, could be an area of land, where there are different activities tak- ing part in different zones in plan, and so on, and so forth. But, we shall not exclude apriori state-owned forests from micro-catchment management plans, as it will depend much on the selection process and how good we all are in including in this process all the necessary elements. Q2 – component 3/Point 1/Bullet point 4 – National forest inventory planning Does this project plan to prepare or assist in developing a new complete national forest inventory, and if yes, how would it impact the situation and policies of the forestry sec- tor, given that the experience with the first inventory that did not work? A2- Mr. Ruotsalainen answer: I think that you are not alone with this problem, as it is the same in many, many countries. Additionally, there have been cases where the results of the inventory were modified to match newly-developed policies, but the question is how it can be done in a more transparent and extensive way. One of the effective ways could be to establish a permanent working group for the drafting policies, and further on extendted group with a wider participation, which could discuss the implementation of these policies. For example, in Finland, we have a permanent working group that han- dles and supervises the implementation of these policies, and additionally, there is an ex- tended consultation group of 80-100 persons, who get the possibility to comment and suggest amendments on the policies that they believe are better. However, we are taking note of your suggestion, and we will need to review which would be the best procedure and/or process to handle this issue. Q3 – component 3/Point 1/Bullet point 5 – Information database for the forestry sector With regards to strengthening of the role of institutions, I would like to know whether the new project will be providing a new forestry sector information database (as we keep getting the same answer from the Ministry that there is no information)? A3- Mr. Ruotsalainen answer: Yes, the plan includes a Forest Management Infor- mation system. Of course there are difficulties, but what’s important is the approach one is using to guarantee success in the design. Perhaps, previous efforts have failed because they did not manage to carry out a thorough analysis of what information is already available in the country’s institutions. In my view, an information system about the for- estry sector is not merely computer hardware and equipment, but the human resources that are going to use this kind of information. That is, in fact, about the structure that collects existing and old data, but uses them in a fairly new way, which is: (i) first, ana- lyze what kind of system we have in place so far, what kind of information does it pro- 27 vide and how can we make best use of these data; and (ii) secondly, identify potential users of this information, so that the information collected becomes useful, and does go down the drain. These are in my view the key issues to be addressed. Mr. Proko’s intervention: On Q1, Mr. Proko stated that he agrees with Mr. Ru- otsalainen, that the plan shall be viewed as an integrated approach, and clarified that he believes in the new changes to the concept of forestry governance; With regards to Q2, Mr. Proko believed the old forest inventory is not something totally invaluable. It is useful as it can be used in several ways, as it serves the purpose of draft- ing new policies by providing better information related to the forestry sector situation. Furthermore, one should not forget that Albania has to abide by the responsibilities and requirements of several international agreements with regards to reporting standards to international forums, (i.e., Albania is expected to sign the European Forestry Convention by mid-October this year,) and making sure that there are no discrepancies. Previous re- ports have indicated that Albania’s forest classification system does not match pan- European standards currently in use, therefore, this inventory serves as a good basis providing important information related to this matter. Additionally, with regards to Q3, the inventory is closely connected with the information database system, but we shall be aware of the major divide that still exists within the ex- perts community about what really constitutes a “forest”. Additionally, we should also be aware that the new law that will be enacted shall also provide the basis for the new inventory and information database for the forestry sector in the country. Mr. Leonidha Peri, - V/Dean of the Faculty of Forestry Sciences, Forest Engineer Mr. Peri remarked that the presentation of the project as it is, provides for so many activ- ities, which he isn’t sure whether it is feasible for all of them to be implemented. Ther e- fore, he believed that it would be better to get right a few things done, rather than prom- ising a lot, but not managing anything tangible in place. With regards to the 1st component, in view of ensuring the sustainability of the outcomes of previous projects carried out so far, we should bear in mind that we are now in a tran- sition stage, with the a new government expected to take oath in September. This means, that there will be sectorial changes, while we are using the term rural, we are not sure yet who’s going to take over rural management issues with the next government, as well as there is no need to come up with new unnecessary proposals and start everything from scratch. We shall make best use of the earlier experience built by previous projects and endeavors. The 2nd component relates to new PES concept introduced by this project. In this view, Mr. Peri believes there shall be a narrower focus, and not encompass all potential envi- ronmental services, otherwise, we will get lost. For example, we will face a (i) bundling problem – that is, who is benefiting, who represents what, as well as other issues, such as (ii) the problem with the classification of PES, (iii) capacity-building problem, etc. Therefore, I suggest to concentrate at least on one of the components on not on all of the three of them, because their scope is really too wide (i.e., let’s focus on watershed man- agement plans, and not carbon sequestration, etc.). In my view the study shall provide for a clear answer to the question of how has the pro- ject concept been drafted? What will be the PES scheme for the users, and how is the WB planning to intervene – will it be as a third party for the beneficiaries of this ser- 28 vices, or will it take another position in ensuring zero-transactions for the beneficiaries, in order to provide for a successful scheme? Therefore, what shall be the approach to be followed by the team of consultants? As for the 3rd component, I believe that if the project manages to establish (i) an invento- ry of the forest sector and (b) information database system, this would be a very positive outcome. This is where I disagree with Mr. Proko, regarding the accuracy and usefulness of the current information system. Proposals by Mr. Peri: 1. In this view, I strongly suggest that the users and beneficiaries of this inventory to become a key part of the consultation process (i.e., field specialists of the Albanian Forestry Service of the LGUs) – thus, those who really do the fieldwork. 2. With regards to the implementation of the new project, I believe that the consultants shall use a different approach, i.e., a specialized company can be contracted for the implementation of the new project – as previous experience with other USAID- sponsored projects has shown in the past. Mr. Xhelal Shuti, - Regional Federation of Forests Association, District of Kukës Mr. Shuti complained about the previous project failing to properly include the federa- tion of forest association, as well as other local stakeholders, as key actors in the consul- tation process. In his view, the new project shall consider in including in the public con- sultations the following stakeholders that have not so far been included: (1) Federation of Forests Assn – at commune level – Additionally, if the grant applica- tion procedures are different and more sophisticated as opposed to the old ones, new training and workshops shall be envisaged for the stakeholders to make best use of the information; (2) Immovable Property Registration Office (3) District Council Offices – at regional level – as they represent central government at local level, and bear a responsibility for forest management. Mr. Pal Çoku, - Head of Dajt Mountain National Park Mr. Çoku stressed that the forest inventory is a great achievement so far, and its infor- mation can also serve as a good basis for the new project. With regards to the PES sys- tem, it is true that nobody is paying so far for the benefits of these services, and this new project should elaborate a methodology for assessing this process and then assist in drafting a separate law to provide for a major role of the local authorities in implement- ing a payment scheme. Z. Anesti Apostoli, - Forest Engineer, Faculty of Forestry Sciences, University of Tira- na For Mr. Apostoli, the registration, documentation and classification (ranking/division according to categories) of forests shall be the first step of the intervention. He finds room for confusion in mentioning three different categories for the preparation of the management plans (state, micro catchment, communal forest), therefore, it is necessary to clarify the state of forest ownership – particularly, state vs. communal-owned forests - that will help the process. In this view, the consultants shall pay attention to the issue of forest ownership documentation as something closely related to the national register of immovable properties, because communes cannot possibly register forest land. 29 Secondly, with regards to the inventory, Mr. Apostoli believes the team of consultants should make better use of the existing practices experiences and then, following up with designing a new inventory at both macro- and micro- level. Ms. Ines Leskaj (Xhelili), - Albanian Women Empowerment Network (AWEN) Ms. Leskaj (Xhelili) praised the fact that the team of consultants has extended invita- tions to organizations focusing on gender issues, and she believes participation of wom- en in public consultations for the new ES project would be a valuable tool for further enhancing the role of women, especially in the country’s rural areas. Mr. Gjon Fierza, - Forest Engineer, Directorate of Forestry Services in Tirana Mr. Fierza stated that these are not matters that are being discussed for the first time. I would ask from the consultants to review two earlier reports, in order to (a) understand what were the issues and problems dealt with earlier; and (b) what can be done better. In this view, Mr. Fierza made the following suggestions: 1. The title of the project shall be changed from “environmental” to “forestry”, be- cause in this form, it is wider in scope and does not necessarily mirror problems re- lated only to forest and/or pasture management. In his view, there are so many envi- ronmental projects and organizations that can deal with this particular issue, and it encompasses a really wide subject, therefore, we need some other alternative; 2. Additionally, we shall also provide for a more accurate definition of the term “mi- cro-catchment” – in view of well-establishing territorial units / duties and responsi- bilities / activities of stakeholders and actors, etc. 3. Furthermore, I believe, we are not very clear as to the fact that what is the project trying to achieve in the end – that is, we shall have well-defined objectives/goals in place (i.e., how much do we expect for the forest land to grow, how much is poverty going to be reduced, etc.), - that is measurable, elaborated and detailed outcomes. 4. With regards to the 1st Component/Point 1, Mr. Fierza stated that we need to have a clear definition of responsibilities and actors at local level; 5. Additionally, he believed that there is an overlap of objectives of the project, which need to be further elaborate and more precisely defined. 6. What do the consultants think of the old plans for six micro-catchments – were they successful, or not? – That is, shall we be using the same practices, or shall we sug- gest new ones with regards to the micro-catchment management? 7. A new model and scheme for the PES shall be introduced. 8. What shall be done with regards to the carbon sequestration plans – shall they be preserved or do they need to be improved? 9. How about the issue of capacity-building for the forestry service? 10. With regards to the issue of the inventory, shall we opt for improving the existing one, or go on for a new one? 11. What about the communication plan? Prof. Mihallaq Kotro, - Forest Engineer, Faculty of Forestry Sciences, University of Tirana Prof. Kotro stated that the project have a very ambitious objectives, despite the bill of 22 million USD, that might seem as an enormous financial bill. Additionally, he supported the view of changing the title of the project, from “environmental” to “forestry”. Furthermore, Prof. Kotro stated that, in his view, the previous project did not have any clear impact on the forestry sector. The last inventory has been not very successful and 30 he support the need for the new inventory, but making clear the objective. The imple- mentation of the management plan should be more clear as it have a budget implication. We should not forget that 10 million Euros have already been spent with no clear im- pact, and therefore, the team shall try the best possible for better use of the new project Prof. Kotro’s proposals: a. The cost shall be divided according to the weight of each of the components b. The project shall come up with ideas on what shall a measurable impact be regarding the forestry sector (i.e., will it be financial gain, or anything else). c. The public consultation process shall be expanded and shall also include other stake- holders and local actors Z. Fatmir Kurti, - Chairman of Baz Commune, Mat District Mr. Kurti stressed that the team of consultants shall be careful with the effectiveness of the measures they will suggest with the study – in his view, it would be better to have less objectives, but more results. Secondly, he was also concerned with the structure of the costs of the project: how much shall the consultative component take, or how much for the human resources and/or capacity-building, and how much for the fieldwork. Fi- nally, given his experience at local level, they would ask for further intervention regard- ing erosion issues. Following coffee-break session, Mr. Proko asked the plenary about the distribution of the minutes. He proposed and agreed with the participants to establish an e-mail network for distributing the information, as well as reporting dates and deadlines, for the submis- sion of each and everyone’s comments before having a final draft. D. – Presentation of the ESMF (Environmental Social and Management Frame- work) By Ms. Laura Susani Ms. Laura Susani took the floor presenting first the Environmental Management and So- cial Framework (ESMF), a WB tool used for the environmental screening and man- agement of Projects whose activities are not identified at the moment of project apprais- al, but during implementation.and its main contants which include clear procedures and methodologies for environmental screening, planning, reviewing, approval and imple- mentation of subprojects identified by the Communes. In order for the tool to be effec- tive, it has to be simple and easy-to-use, said Ms. Susani. Some of you might have seen the forms and screening lists that were prepared for the NRDP and some of you might have used them in the previous projects – what would be very useful, would be to have your inputs in order to make the new tools more effective.She then presented the institu- tional framework that had been proposed for the NRDP and proposed the modifications to be made on the structure for the ESP, asking for the stakeholders input. Definition of appropriate roles and responsibilities are important for effective ESMF im- plementation as is the outline of the necessary reporting procedures, for managing and monitoring environmental concerns related to subprojects Given the transition moment of the post election period, it is not yet clear which Minis- try will be responsible for the project as it may be that the Directorate of Forestry, now 31 part of the Ministry of the Environment, may be moved under the Ministry of Agricul- ture. There will then be a steering committee (PSCs) whose members will be decided in co- operation by the WB and the Albanian government. – Ms Susani indicated that it is very important that implementation of the environmental screening process begins at local level (Grupet Lokale te Veprimit) and works bottom up with the support of the relevant local institutions such as the environmmtal agencies and extension services.. –. The ESMF structure which was proposed is still very fluid and needs to be further elabo- rated and properly defined. Ms Susani presented table indicating the various phases and activities of ESMF implementation including the responsibilities. In order to make the environmental screening process more efficient, she roposed that an environmental ex- pert be included in the PMT. She also presented a list of potential stakeholders who should be part of the capacity bulding effort foreseen by the EMF. She then makes a brief presentation of the contents of the Environmental Assessemnt and the Environmen- tal Management Plan which will be part of ESP preparation. E. – Ms. Gitte Andersen – Social Assessment Then Ms. Gitte Andersen, socio-economic expert, took the floor to deliver a presentation on the socio-economic component of the study for the new project. Mr. Andersen stated that the socio-economic exercise involves carrying out: (i) RRA – rapid rural appraisal in the commune of Zall-Bastar, District of Tirana; (ii) SA (social assessment) report, involving the design and implementation of (a) quantitative research study instruments --- a baseline household survey study, that will provide for baseline indicators to be monitored in the future activities and other survey research instruments; as well as a (b) qualitative research study component with focus group discussions, semi-structured in-depth interviews and stakeholder analysis, that will be carried out in four selected communes; as well as (iii) the design of a Process Framework and Participation Plan. F. – Q&A Session Mr. Mihallaq Qirjo, - Forest Engineer With regards to the issue of the project’s scope as suggested its title, Mr. Qirjo stated that in implies a project with two fields of activities: (a) Forestry; and (b) Other elements and activities within the environmental sector, which would extend beyond reason the scope of the project, and he personally favored version (a). As for the ESMP, Mr. Qirjo stressed that the way it has been designed and judging from the elements included in the presentation, it looks like a development project that might fit very well different sectors other than environment, and not necessarily related to en- vironmental development activities (i.e., mitigation measures, etc.). In this view, our project foresees activities that would improve the environmental situation, which means that we are not merely carrying out an environmental assessment report, but we are asked to list and analyze all possible positive impact that a project like this might have on the environment. As for the methodology approach and facilitating the work of the 32 local stakeholders, I believe that the group of activities shall be organized as it is the case for any other environmental development project, i.e.:  a component of carbon sequestration, upon which we have developed quite an exper- tise;  a group of activities with an impact on (a) underground waters; and (b) surface wa- ters;  a group of activities designed for soil enrichment;  a group of activities designed for forest improvement;  energy efficiency activities (use of timber for heating is considered as one of the main factors for the deterioration of forests, therefore, I believe, we need alternative energy sources and other policies in place for this matter); As per the structure above, I believe this is something that can help the team of consult- ants both in terms of design and implementation of the new project. A final remark by Mr. Qirjo regarded poverty rates indicated in the socio-economic component of the presentation, where he pointed out that the displayed figures might not accurately represent the current situation in the ground. Mr. Leonidha Peri, - V/Dean of the Faculty of Forestry Sciences, Forest Engineer Mr. Peri was concerned about the use of ESMF as a WB instrument, which should not necessarily include other Albanian institutions, whose activity is regulated according to Albanian legislation. Therefore, if there should be a role for the environment agencies, than this is something that is regulated by Albanian law, and it cannot overlap or get confused with what the WB is asking for. The consultants, Mr. Peri stressed, shall atten- tively review for potential discrepancies and/or incompatibilities between the EMSF as WB instrument and respective Albanian legislation. Additionally, with regards to the SA (Social Assessment) component of the presentation, Mr. Peri asked from the consultants to review previous socio-economic assessment work carried out by different projects, and especially ACER’s 2010 and 2012 studies. Ms. Gitte Andersen answered to the above inquiry about previous studies, that the team of consultants has thoroughly reviewed them, and they ask very specific questions, while the present study (socio-economic component) is meant to feed in to the new project. Of course, there are certain items that might overlap with each other, Ms. Andersen added, but there are meny newly-introduced topics and issues. Furthermore, Ms. Andersen, said that the team of consultants has been actively looking for the list of communes (73 of them) where the ACER 2012 study was conducted. Mr. Nihat Çollaku intervened stressing that an official request has been extended to the ACER 2012 study authors to provide with the list of the 73 communes where their study took place. Finally, Mr. Peri was happy to note and welcomed the approach taken by the socio- economic consultants in designing the dataset of the household survey findings, and es- pecially the gender-based tabulation breakdown suggested in the presentation slides. Mr. Rexhep Ndreu, – Chairman of the Albanian Federation of Forest and Pasture As- sociations For Mr. Ndreu, the most important task of the project would be how to appropriately combine the political situation in place with the legal framework, with regards to the land rights that people are entitled to. In this view, Mr. Ndreu brought to the attention of 33 the participants, that there are currently three ongoing consultation processes in the country: i – institutional reform, ii – legal framework improvement, and iii – drafting of a new law Therefore, Mr. Ndreu suggested that the team of consultants should necessarily collabo- rate with point (iii), in order to avoid what has been happing so far with the environment in Albania (i.e., massive logging, forest fires, destruction, erosion, etc.) – that is to say, we are not yet the “caretakers” of the forest, since we haven’t decided yet everyone’s duties and responsibilities. He called on the team of consultants to go in the field and talk to the real “caretakers” and discuss with them about issues related on how to eval u- ate these services. Mr. Gjon Fierza, - Forest Engineer, Directorate of Forestry Services in Tirana Mr. Fierza stressed that there is a need for a “functional” and “new” ESMF, with a lim- ited number of actors and very well-defined responsibilities – therefore, committee with people that have a real connection with the services. Additionally, Mr. Fierza supported Prof. Mihallaq Qirjo’s comments about the ESMF and the socio-economic component of the project. Answering to the participants inquiries related to the issue on how to measure income, Ms. Andersen acknowledged that it is a difficult task to measure income and find the right indicator. While, the poverty rates indicated in the presentation slides are based on INSTAT figures for 2009 and actually, they are not being used as a sampling criteria for the selection of the communes. Additionally, Ms. Susani, answering to inquiries about the ESMF, stated that it is a tool required by the WB, but also provides for the requirements of the Albanian law. Of course, the team of experts is aware and shall pay close attention to proceed fully in ac- cordance with both the requirements of the WB, as well as the Albanian legislation, also the requirements posed by the EU. Mr. Ylli Hoxha – Director of Forest Department, Agency of Environment and Forests Mr. Hoxa said that the structure and the scope of the project looks relatively large. Thus, he suggested that the team of consultants shall explore the possibilities of narrowing the scope of the project. Furthermore, in this view, Mr. Hoxha suggested that the duties and responsibilities of the inspectors of regional environmental agencies shall be included in the EMSF, despite their title change. G. - Closing remarks by Mr. Arsen Proko, Director of the Forestry and Pastures Directorate In his closing remarks, Mr. Proko delivered a summary of the institutional situation in the country, lessons learned in the past and what is to be expected in the future. Management situation of forestry sector in Albania 1. We are now undergoing a political transitional period in the country and we do not really know what is going to happen. Currently, we are working with an institutional and legal framework reform process, and following discussions and consultations with political representatives on both sides, we note that: (a) there is a general con- sensus on the concept that the forestry sector should be under rural management sys- 34 tems; (b) additionally, everybody seems to agree that the new system of the forestry sector shall be based on a well-defined division of responsibilities, which shall be undertaken primarily by the forest-owners, who have also the management rights; (c) additionally, we are working on drafting a structure for a better management and dis- tribution scheme of services – in this view, draft-laws have been compiled, while there is a general support by all parties for the implementation philosophy of com- petitive grants – additionally, the extension service could be part of the agriculture service, based on experience and best practices around the globe – finally, it has been widely discussed and agreed in principle, that the projects shall be monitored no longer by the PMTs, but by the respective institutions. 2. There is full consensus by all parties for the forests to remain within the ministry of agriculture. Payments shall be processed through the Rural Development Payment Agencies (in the framework of the EU-commisioned IPARD certified project). Hence, in the conditions of rural development, the EU is asking for the implementa- tion of the system of the payment agencies. Procedures are already in place in for the following: We select project applications, and after the selection process, payments are processed by the payment agency --- while, the regional project directors are being substituted by extension service regional inspectors, which undertake simultaneously the role of local managers and registration of cadastral titles. With regards to the responsibilities of all the structure with a stake on the environmental assessment, all coordinators at regional level, are now part of the project assessment process ---- therefore, it is an agreement awaiting a final confirming decision. H. – Closing remarks by Mr. Tapani Ruotsalainen, Indufor Oy Team Leader Thank you for the lively discussions! We definitely got good ideas. We learned some- thing new and we will confirm with you the key issues raised and discussed here. Time allowing, the consultant team, will try to meet with all the stakeholders and/or institu- tions represented here. To conclude this and all the rest of the projects cannot solve all the problems related to the forestry situation in the country. The governing structures to support the activities in all the sectors are needed, and especially the agriculture and for- estry sectors. These two sectors produce sustainable income, as opposed to the education and/or public health system. In the next five years, forests cannot produce much, and there might be shortcomings regarding financing the situation of forests but in the long run there will be revenues from forestry. Therefore, users, communes, private users are welcomed to go and look also for other sources of financing apart from this project. In agricultural sector the crops can be changed frequently depending on the market de- mand. In forestry the crops cannot be changed within short periods of time even if the market for forest products change. Therefore, lets work with what we have now and im- prove both the forests and/or pastures management. 35 36 37 38 Second Public Consultation Workshop for the Preparation of the Environmental Services Project Venue: 26 September 2013, Tirana Participants: See Annex 1 Resources persons: Dr Arsen Proko, Nehat Çollaku, PMT Other PMT member Mr Tapani Ruotsalainen, Consultant Team Leader Ms Gitte Andersen, Consultant Social Assessment Expert Mr Zamir Dedej, Consultant Local Partner Organization Mr Genti Kromidha, Consultant Local Project Coordinator Mr Thanas Goga, Consultant Local Social Assessment Expert WB Representatives Minutes of the Meeting Compiled by Thanas Goga ------------------------------------------------OPENING SESSION------------------------------- ------The meeting was opened at 09:30 at Hotel “Doro City” Tirana. A. – Welcome speech and opening remarks by Mr. Nehat Çollaku, PMT A welcome speech and opening remarks were delivered by Mr. Nehat Çollaku, PMT. - Good evaluation of Indufor Oy-INCA performance by both the PMT and WB; - Elaboration on the proceedings of the workshop and the timeline of the ESP prepara- tion project. B. – Welcome speech and opening remarks by Mr. Pëllumb Abeshi, General Secre- tary of the Ministry of Environment - Welcoming remarks by the ME; - ES is a new concept in our country, it’s not as easy as it looks, but it is an experience that we have to build on other countries’ experience. - During these years, the whole development landscape in Albania has had an impact on the environment. It has mainly been a negative impact. That is why, we believe that this is a project that will help a lot, not only the environment, but also other sectors, related with the environment. - We have to integrate measures and steps to be taken forward by this project. 1st Moment – How much shall be paid - We believe that the project shall make sure that all those who benefit from natural eco- systems, shall be paid (there’s many elements with the natural resources) --- we h 2nd Moment – Where to deliver those payments; 3rd Moment – How they shall be distributed. Aiming at sustainable development. The whole SA shall identify the economic level, social problems, business structure and other elements related to the natural resources. 39 B. We have to analyze the impact of other actors, with an impact on the natural re- sources, such as agriculture, fishing, tourism, business enterprises, and other community actors. They should be integrated with the consultation process for the preparation of the project. C. – Mr. Tapani Ruotsalainen, Indufor Oy-INCA Project Leader Thank you Mr. Chairman! Thank you Mr. General Secretary of the Ministry of Envi- ronment! I hope to have representatives from the ME and the payment agency --- because one of the main issues to be discussed today will be the grant scheme. From the 1st public consultation meeting, we have made only two changes: 1. Timeline – 5 years; 2. We have also changed the currency from USD to Euros --- 17 mio Euros (22,88 mio USD) What we have done, is that we have grouped the components, as follows: - Component A - Component B - Component C At the moment there will be 2 implementing agencies: a. Forest sector; b. ARDA – will implement A1 (grant allocation), while all the rest of the components will be im- plemented by the Forest sector; As the ME Secretary General stated above, there are many agencies involved with the implementation of the project. The Grant Scheme will be pretty similar to the IPARD, however, there are some prob- lems related to the implementation: - The IPARD instrument will become operational by the beginning of January 2013, it is only a draft for the time-being; - The new element is the administration of all the forests shall be part of this instrument…. - Total grant fund is 4,5 mio Euro --- we believe, that there will be three calls for applications --- and all of them shall be implemented by ARDA; The main element of the Grand Scheme is that the users of the land have better possibilities from the use of their land; Ms. Gitte Andersen, Indufor Oy – Social Assessment Expert Ms. Anderson provided a presentation on the main findings of the social assessment study focusing more on the gender issues and gender participation action plan. She noted that so far women participa- tion in the project activites has been weak and that women need to be empowered to strengen their 40 voice and participate in decision making about use of nature resources (see presentation attached in the annex) Thanas Goga, INCA – Social Assessment Expert Mr. Goga presented the results of the Household Survey conducted as part as the social assessment. With clear figures and graphs Mr. Goga highlithted that the economic situa- tion in the rural areas is poor and rural farmers rley on agriculture and livestock for their survival. There are no investments in basic infrastructure and the marketing of produce is very difficult (see presentation in the annex. Mr. Zamir Dedej, environmental assessment expert Mr. Dedej presented the Environemntal assessment and the Environemntal Management framework prepared for the Environemntal Services Project. He highlighted that most likely the project will have no negative environmental impacts since on the contrary the rehabilitation of forests and pasture and reversing of land degradation will positively af- fect nature and biodiversity. However, tools and measures are foreseen in the EMF to detect and avoid any negative impact resulting from the implementation of the project activities. Mr. Genti Kromidha, INCA Representative The World Bank does not invest in projects where there is unclear and/or unresolved is- sues related to property rights and land ownership. This is an important issue to be cleared out, so that Forest users and grant beneficiaries can benefit from this grant scheme. Mr. Tapani Ruotsalainen: The floor was taken by Mr. Ruotsalainen, team leader for Indufor Oy – INCA, who elaborated on the eligibility criteria for benefiting from the grant scheme; as well as the potential grant size amounting to EUR 4,000; the importance of management plans; and private/public partnerships. Mr. Gent Çupi, Forest Specialist I am not very clear about the changes in the Grant Scheme 1. Issues related to property registration; I think that the registration should take place immediate- ly…but we are all aware that this is a process that needs a lot of time; first, there is a legal prob- lem, and secondly, there is a time problem. Property issues are very difficult issues to be solved in Albania, because you need a lot of time, and secondly, there is almost no paperwork associ- ated with land ownership Pra zgjidhja: “Titulli i pronesise te mos jete kusht ne dhenien e granteve” 2. Therefore, the solution I propose is that: “Land ownership title shall not be a precondition for benefiting from the grant scheme”. Mr. Bekim Imeri, WB 41 The WB is also responsible on the social side of the problem, that is the WB looks takes into consideration also the traditional right. That is, if the associations have an approved management plan, will be easier to apply. The issuing of ownership titles shall be the starting point for a period of 5-6 years of implementing the grants. As far as the WB is concerned, where there is no formalization of ownership, the WB will also consider the traditional right…which is accepted from the village…the com- munity…as an act of acceptance from all the members of the community. Hence, we shall also be waiting the social assessment…in order to accurately define “the traditional right.” Prof. Arsen Proko 1. How many agencies shall be included (the forest sector that takes care for the forest registration, the ministry of agriculture that takes care of the land registry; that is, there are many sectors that look after changes in land ownership…therefore, we need one sin- gle coordination agency; we need centralization for theses two activities, and in this view, we need to answer the question, how many agencies shall be included; 2. Forest improvement shall include all other activities; 3. The Gordian Knot has always been the ownership issue. The debate upon this issue has always been a vicious circle. In this case, we shall also look at best practices around the world. There are countries like Albania, whose territory management fall within what is called “traditional right.” In such countries, there is a legal deadline on the user right, or what is called “possession.” In other countries, this might also be a right to be inherited, only if the owners live permanently in the very same village of community. There is also a national experience, where all the owners (the state, the commune, pri- vate owners) have the right to give areas to users on a contractual basis, defined by a map and a previously agreed user tariff. With all this information, such a user can go to the registration agency in order to apply for the right to exercise his own activity. If the agency does not possess such paperwork, then it is not eligible to apply for a bank loan. Therefore, this could be solved through the user right form. 4. As for the management plans, I am in favor of micro-catchment management plans, but I have the following remarks: - Management plans are a national problem, and as we know, the state budget does not provide funding for these plans…that is why we have asked for legal amendments to change this situation. - Therefore, we need that “the value of the management plan to be included in the project costs, so that we can reduce the level of informality.” Part of the cost shall be covered by the production cots, therefore, in this way we demotivate informality. Pal Çoku, Director of Dajti Mountain National Park The certification from the communal cadaster could be accepted as a valuable document, where family ownership would be fair enough to be accepted from the association. This will give the opportunity to the individual, family to apply. Jakov Boduri, Project Local Coordinator for Elbasan 42 Grant scheme – This is a model that has been implemented in the agriculture sector, but its application for the forests is not such an easy task. 5-10% of the communes have not formalized yet the ownership titles for the immovable properties, therefore we have not yet formalized the traditional right. How many farmers will be ready to register their area (i.e., they might be afraid to do so, because of the tax burden that they might be fac- ing, etj.). The grand size 4,000 – 75,000 EUR – It reduces the number of farmers benefiting from the scheme – will all forest right users/owners be eligible to apply for the grand scheme, or not? Management plans – It is true that we have today micro-catchment plans, but in the con- sultation meetings we have had so far, we have seen that the area of a micro-catchment property might be equal to the commune total area. Ariol Lila, National Forest Federation The commune might issue ownership certiciation titles for community members with traditional ownership, in order to be eligible to benefit from the grant scheme. Vasillaq Mine, Lecturer in the Forest Faculty Regional Directorates can also be entitled to offer such right. They can cooperate with the communes and identify users using certain forest stands and provding them with a ti- tle recognizing their user right. Genci Kacorri, Private Forest Consultant Proposal – Long-term contracts shall be granted by the commune for the forests and pas- tures, regardless of the fact whether they are registered or not. In this case, the commune shall be a guarantee for the contracts – in this case, we need a legal framework to make it as efficient as possible. Loenidha Peri, Vice Vean, Faculty of Forestry Sciences The grant-holder could be the commune – this could be a solution. Regarding the activities, these are all part of the management plan. I woud like to add that, given also the titlte of the project, it should also be financed the infrastructure that really provides for the service offer for the environment (that is, not only traditional ac- tivities that are included in the management plan) Ervin Toromani, Lecturer in the Forest Faculty 1. Erosion endengared areas – there is no measure in place against erosion; 2. Capacity building – CNVP has been providing some capacity building trainings and workshops, but I think, it is about time that we start so far talking about capacity em- powerment, rather than capacity building. 3. Grant schemes – LGUs could compete for the grands, but I think it should be done under a precondition…that is these units, 10% of the budget shall be invested for the en- vironment – where, this is a criteria that proves the commune is interested on environ- ment protection. 4. Management plans – They could not be drafted so easily, therefore there should be a certain value defined. 43 5. What do we mean by wood processing – We need to promote companies that make use of all the wood remainings – that is, “processing of alternative fuel”. Prof. Arsen Proko All the hydro-power plants have deposided the ownership title paperwork (user right ti- tle) from the state, in order to apply for a business loan. Haziz Porja, Private Consultant Communes do not have the required specialists and staff to handle and process projects of this scope. Nevret Jahollari, Private Consultant a. Erosion and environmental problems are not in the registered lands, but in lands that are problematic. Therefore, I think, that – in coordination with the new government – part of the funds shall be allocated to build up a national cadaster system, which shall also defined how the communal forest are to be defined. Therefore, I would like to ask – who is in charge of registering the inventory? I don’t thik we are therefore on the right track. b. I would also like to add that the works are very fragmented, and therefore, they cannot provide for a comprehensive environmental impact. Tapani Ruotsalainen, Indufor Oy-INCA Team Leader: This was a very interesting discussion, but very few new things. 1. I fully agree that the registration problem is not merely an administrative one; 2. The user right transfer process to the communes is an administrative issue; 3. In many countries that I have worked with, I have said, that should I have been a dic- tator, I would have solved this issue by telling the ministers that the transfer of user rights to the communes is enough. Because, the document contains both the list of the communes, as well as the territory, - therefore they should be in charge for the registra- tion. And in my view, these data exist in a database, and therefore, the list deoes exist in the communes. As for the management plan, I think we should be talking about major projects. You al- ready have the numbers, and you do know which are the current micro-catchments, and therefore, you coud make the proper arrangements with the required areas. On the other hand, I also think that the secondary legislation needs also to be reviewed, in order to see what does it provide for the management plans. Hence, I suggest, we need to draft a secondary legislation as flexible as possible. 44 45 46 47