Revised ESIA April, 2 2009

Environmental & Social
Impact Assessment Report

for the al-Menya Landfill
Southern West Bank Solid Waste

Management Program
Southern West Bank Joint Service

Council for Solid Waste Management
Municipal Development and Lending Fund

The World Bank
April 2009
Final
Environmental & Social
Impact Assessment Report
for the al-Menya Landfilland
Associated Infrastructure
Southern West Bank Solid Waste

Management Program
April, 7, 2009
Southern West Bank Joint Service

Council for Solid Waste Management in
Hebron and Bethlehem
file : B3671 01 001
registration number :
version : 4
Municipal Development and Lending Fund
The World Bank
April 2009
Final
Original document prepared by DHV BV partnering with the Palestinian Hydrology Group. This version revised and updated by Raymond Colley and Jacob Avraham
Contextual Summary
In the southern West Bank area, i.e. Bethlehem and Hebron governorates, improperly regulated dumpsites for
the disposal of municipal solid waste have led to unacceptable environmental degradation. As a response to this
deteriorating situation, the Solid Waste and Environmental Management Project (SWEMP) has been initiated.
The initial concept for the design of project activities has been established in the Feasibility Study (FS) and Basic
Design (BD), prepared in parallel with this ESIA study. The FS has proposed a concept for a regional waste
management system focusing on a regional landfill site in area of the al-Menya local council and a transfer
station south of the city of Hebron.
In theory, local authorities are responsible for solid waste collection and disposal in the West Bank. There are a
number of communities, however, for which there is no municipal authority or village council. Also local
authorities have been slow to obey the law, perhaps due to lack of capacity and conflicting priorities. Joint
Services Councils (JSCs) for Solid Waste Management have been established to coordinate Solid Waste
Management (SWM) across larger areas. For this project a combined Joint Service Council for Hebron and
Bethlehem Governorates(JSC-H&B) been formed and is the Project Proponent. It consists of both JSC of Hebron
Governorate and JSC of Bethlehem Governorate.
Currently most of the solid waste from Hebron Governorate and from some villages in Bethlehem Governorate is
dumped at the dumping site at Yatta. Solid waste from Israeli settlements in Hebron, from the UNRWA-managed
refugee camps, and some industrial waste is also taken to the dumpsite. In all, between 50 and 60 trucks with
average capacity around 8 tons discharge at the site daily.
Based on the present population and forecasts for the Hebron and Bethlehem governorates, as well as the
estimates and forecasts for the waste generation per capita, the total annual waste generation over the project
period can be calculated as about 4,9 million m³ over a 20 year period. There are major environmental and
social effects of the existing waste disposal system. These include air and water pollution, land degradation, and
harm to the health and livelihood practices of vulnerable groups (the child waste-pickers). The high potential for
environmental impacts associated with the current environmentally unsecured disposal methods arises principally
due to:
• Poor original selection of the dump sites (based on convenience rather than environmental acceptability);
• Limited control over site access and hence over waste-picking, waste burning and illegal dumping;
• Absence of control over emissions of pollutants released from waste decomposition.
Contamination of surface water (wadis) and groundwater resources via uncontrolled discharges of rainwater
runoff and leachate is of most concern. Analyses of leachate obtained from three of the largest existing dump
sites confirm the significant potential that exists for the contamination of surface water and groundwater
resources via uncontrolled discharges of leachate.
Similarly, residential communities adjacent to dump sites are affected by the practice of burning waste on-site,
resulting in thick plumes of smoke with comparatively high concentrations of particulate matter, including toxic
substances released, but not destroyed by, low-temperature burning. The same communities are impacted also
by odor generated by decomposing waste that attracts large numbers of vermin and pests. Continuing disposal of
waste via uncontrolled dump sites will only serve to exacerbate these impacts throughout the region as the
number of dump sites proliferate in order to accommodate the increasing quantities of MSW generated.
Notwithstanding that open dumping is the least cost financial solution for dealing with waste for disposal it is
apparent that continued open dumping is not sustainable from practical, social and environmental considerations.
al-Menya Landfill ESIA . ‫! ا ر ر ا‬, version 4
-1-
Some form of strategic approach to the area’s waste disposal requirements needs to be taken. Hence, the
project objectives include:
١. To improve solid waste management in Hebron and Bethlehem Governorates

٢. To reduce the environmental pollution risks, especially the pollution of water sources.
٣. To maximize the potential social and environmental benefits and improve public health status
٤. To improve air quality through eliminating gas and smoke release from the unsanitary dumping sites.
٥. To improve the aesthetic view of the landscape.
The identification of the new landfill site and the location and design of the transfer station were the result of an
extensive site selection and consultation process. The preferred landfill site was chosen due to its location
approximately midway between the two governorates to be served by the project and because the geology,
surrounding land uses and ecological setting all indicated that the potential for significant negative environmental
and social impacts was less than at other sites. The site technical specifications are the best of those visited and
there are no significant difficulties anticipated with regard to land lease or ownership transfer. However. the site
falls in Area ‘C’ of the West Bank. Infrastructure projects, including solid waste disposal sites, require approval of
the Civil Administration of the State of Israel prior to receiving construction permits, and under the same
approvals procedures, water supply and water/sewage treatment facilities, reservoirs, dams, drainage channels
and electrical installations all require approval of the Israeli authorities prior to construction. Some of these types
of infrastructure may be required for the completion of the currently proposed project.
A transfer station needs to be situated near a waste collection area where the refuse collection vehicles can
discharge their load for reloading onto larger vehicles for economic transport to the landfill. Transfer stations are
used to optimize the efficiency of waste collection and transport systems. The selected site is in the southern
industrial zone of Hebron City, a distance of around 25 km to the al-Menya landfill, to serve municipalities in the
southern region of Hebron, the southern neighborhoods of Hebron City and the Southern industrial zone of
Hebron City. The land is completely owned by Hebron municipality. It is about 1,000 meters from the main road
(road 60) which connect all the major cities it the West Bank and runs close by the landfill.
The particular environmental and social issues which are most likely to give rise to the most significant impacts or
were of greatest concern in the context of this project were the following.
• Land use: the effects of the project on land uses and values
• Impacts related to potential ground and surface water contamination by waste water, surface drainage
and the water passing through and around the project sites.
• Socio-economic and cultural impacts on a large number of individuals who enter the old landfill site and
collect valuable wastes for resale
• Traffic Impacts: The movements of large vehicles, sometimes on small roads
• General Environmental Quality: Effects in terms of odor and air quality impacts, noise, visual and
landscape impacts, vermin, etc. if the facilities are not operated in accordance with good practice.
• Potential impact of landfill gas: Landfill gas poses significant risks to human, animal and plant health and
life.
Accordingly, the study has investigated how the design will incorporate measures to minimize these risks, and
assessed the residual impact.
-2-
An Environmental and Social Management Plan (ESMP) has been developed as a link between the management
and mitigation measures specified in this report and the proper implementation and management of the
measures during the construction and operation of the project. It summarizes the anticipated environmental and
social impacts and provides details on the measures responsibilities and scheduling to mitigate these impacts;
the costs of mitigation; and, the ways in which implementation and effectiveness of the measures will be
monitored and supervised.
The measures required by the ESMP will be incorporated in a series of documents that will be linked through the
ESPM and the associated Monitoring Plan. These documents are as follows.
• Contract Documents prepared for firms bidding to work on major project construction activities (i.e. the
construction of the landfill, the construction of the transfer station, and the closure of the Yatta site) forming a
binding contractual obligation that specifies not just design features but, where the ESMP so requires,
management of workers, vehicles, machinery, operating times, methods of working, complaints management
etc.
• Operational contracts (i.e. the operation of the landfill, the operation of the transfer station, and the operation
of the collection vehicles). These binding contractual obligations will specify, where the ESMP so requires,
site management and maintenance routines, employment practices, vehicle routes, operating times,
methods of working, complaints management etc.
• The agreement of the JSC-H&B to manage the project. This will include a monitoring plan for noise, dust,
and water. A supervision plan to check the progress and effectiveness of the environmental and social
mitigation measures. Arrangements to implement the provisions of the Abbreviated Resettlement Action
Plans, and provisions to implement a training program in environmental management, for national and local
government officials.
-3-
LIST OF ABBREVIATIONS
BD Basic Design
CBO Community Based Organization
EIA Environmental Impact Assessment
EPD Environmental Planning Directorate
EQA Environmental Quality Authority
ERM Environmental Resources Management
ESIA Environmental & Social Impact Assessment
ESMP Environmental and Social Management Plan
EU European Union
FS Feasibility Study
HDPE high-density polyethylene
HPC Higher Planning Council
IEE Initial Environmental Evaluation
JSC Joint Service Council
JSC-H&B Joint Service Council for Hebron and Bethlehem Governorates
LA Local Authority
LEL Lower Explosive Limit
MDLF Municipal Development and Lending Fund
MEnA Ministry of Environmental Affairs
MoD Ministry of Defense (Israeli)
MoF Ministry of Finance
MoH Ministry of Health
MoI Ministry of Industry
MoJ Ministry of Justice
MoLG Ministry of Local Government
MoPIC Ministry of Planning and International Co-operation
MSW Municipal Solid Waste
MSWM Municipal Solid Waste Management
NGO Non Governmental Organization
NIS New Israeli Shekel
NSR Noise Sensitive Receivers
PA Palestinian Authority
PCBS Palestinian Central Bureau of Statistics
PEnA Palestinian Environmental Authority
PES Palestinian Environmental Strategy
PHG Palestinian Hydrology Group
PHRD Policy and Human Resource Development
PIALES Palestinian Institute for Arid Lands and Environmental Studies
PIU Project Implementation Unit
PM Program Manager
PMT Project Management Team
PTL Project Team Leader
PWA Palestinian Water Authority
RCV Refuse Collection Vehicle
RCV Refuse Collection Vehicle
RORO Roll-On-Roll Off
S/W South/West
SW Solid Waste
SWBSWMP Southern West Bank Solid Waste Management Project
-4-
SWEMP Solid Waste and Environment Management Project
SWM Solid Waste Management
SWMP Solid Waste Management Project
ToR Terms of Reference
ToU Technical Operations Unit
UEL Upper Explosive limit
UNEP United Nations Environment Program
UNRWA United Nations Relief and Works Agency
WB World Bank
-5-
CONTENTS PAGE
1 INTRODUCTION 2
1.1 BACKGROUND 2
1.2 PROJECT OBJECTIVES 2
1.3 ESIA APPROACH AND METHODOLOGY 3
1.3.1 The Project Planning Cycle 3
1.3.2 Status of the Design Proposals 3
1.3.3 Assessment and Mitigation of Significant Impacts 3
1.3.4 Approach of the ESIA 3
1.3.5 Methodology 4
1.4 REPORT STRUCTURE 5
2 POLICY, LEGAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE FRAMEWORK 6
2.1 INTRODUCTION 6
2.2 INSTITUTIONAL FRAMEWORK 6
2.2.1 General 6
2.2.2 Environmental Oversight of Solid Waste Management 6
2.3 INSTITUTIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES 7
2.3.1 Local Authorities 7
2.3.2 Ministries 7
2.3.3 Palestinian Water Authority (PWA) 8
2.3.4 Joint Services Council for SWM in Hebron and Bethlehem Governorates 8
2.3.5 Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) 8
2.4 LEGISLATION AND POLICY 8
2.4.1 Environmental Legislation 8
2.4.2 Enforcement of Regulations 9
2.4.3 Palestinian Environmental Policy and Planning 10
2.4.4 Environmental Impact Assessment 10
2.4.5 International Environmental Assessment Guidelines 11
2.5 PROJECT APPROVAL REQUIREMENTS 11
2.5.1 Project Proponent 11
2.5.2 Project Approving Agencies (West Bank and Israeli) 11
2.5.3 Project Approval Requirements 12
3 DESCRIPTION OF THE PROPOSED PROJECT AND ALTERNATIVES 13
3.1 INTRODUCTION 13
3.2 EXISTING SOLID WASTE GENERATION AND FUTURE MANAGEMENT NEEDS 14
3.2.1 Sources of Municipal Solid Waste 14
3.2.2 Characteristics of Municipal Solid Waste 15
3.2.3 Disposal 16
3.2.4 Anticipated Future Needs 16
3.3 ALTERNATIVE WASTE COLLECTION AND TRANSFER OPTIONS 18
3.3.1 Introduction and Background 18
3.3.2 The “Zero Option” 19
3.3.3 Alternative Waste Collection and Transfer Systems 20
3.3.4 Alternative Waste Disposal Systems 20
3.3.5 Alternative Sites for the Landfill 22
3.4 THE PREFERRED OPTION FOR THE DISPOSAL OF MSW 23
3.4.1 Landfill Design Features 23
3.4.2 Landfill Site Infrastructure and Access Roads 1
3.4.3 Construction of Roads 2
-6-
3.4.4 The Transfer Station 3
3.5 PHASING OF LANDFILL OPERATION .!ّ ‫! ارة ا‬
3.6 LANDFILL DECOMMISSIONING AND AFTERCARE PHASE .!ّ ‫! ارة ا‬
3.7 REMEDIATION AND CLOSURE OF EXISTING WASTE DUMPS 10
3.7.1 Introduction 10
3.7.2 Improvement and Continued Operation of the Yatta Site 10
3.7.3 Remediation and Closure of Dump Sites 10
4 IDENTIFICATION OF KEY ISSUES (SCOPING) 12
4.1 BACKGROUND 12
4.2 IDENTIFICATION OF IMPACT AREAS 12
4.2.1 Causes of Impacts 12
4.2.2 The Receiving Environment 12
4.3 IMPACTS TO BE ADDRESSED IN THE STUDY 13
4.3.2 Key Impact Areas 13
4.3.3 Other Impacts 14
5 PUBLIC CONSULTATION 16
5.1 BACKGROUND 16
5.2 OVERVIEW AND METHODOLOGY 16
5.2.1 Stakeholder Consultation Plan 16
5.2.2 Disclosure 18
5.3 OUTCOME OF STAKEHOLDER CONSULTATIONS 18
5.3.2 Concerns of the stakeholders at national level 18
5.3.3 Concerns of the stakeholders at regional level 19
5.3.4 Concerns of the stakeholders at local level 20
6 ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL BASELINE DATA 22
6.1 INTRODUCTION 22
6.1.1 Data and Information Presented 22
6.1.2 Sources of Information 22
6.2 GENERAL ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS IN THE STUDY AREA 22
6.2.1 General Characteristics 22
6.2.2 Climate 24
6.2.3 Ambient Environmental Conditions in the Study Area 27
6.3 GEOLOGY AND SOILS 32
6.3.1 Site Investigation 32
6.3.2 Regional Bedrock Stratigraphy and Lithology 32
6.3.3 Geology and Stratigraphy of the Project Site 35
6.3.4 Seismic Activities 36
6.3.5 Superficial Materials and Top Soil 36
6.4 HYDROGEOLOGY AND HYDROLOGY 36
6.4.1 Hydrogeology of Southern West Bank 36
6.4.2 Groundwater Abstraction and Groundwater Quality 37
6.4.3 Groundwater Quality 38
6.5 HYDROLOGY 38
6.5.1 Catchment Details 38
6.5.2 Surface Water Resources 39
6.6 ECOLOGY 40
6.6.1 Sources of Information 40
6.6.2 Flora 40
6.6.3 Fauna 41
-7-
6.7 SOCIO-ECONOMIC FACTORS 41
6.7.1 Demographics 41
6.7.2 Employment 42
6.7.3 Key Social Services and Utilities 43
6.7.4 Employment/Livelihood at the Existing Waste Sites 43
7 ASSESSMENT AND MITIGATION OF IMPACTS 45
7.1 INTRODUCTION 45
7.1.1 Contents of this Section 45
7.1.2 Identification of Impacts 45
7.1.3 Assessment and Mitigation of Impacts 46
7.2 AIR QUALITY 49
7.2.1 Odor 49
7.2.2 Dust from Construction and Operation and Smoke 50
7.2.3 Summary of Mitigated Impacts 51
7.2.4 Summary of Mitigation Measures 52
7.3 NOISE IMPACTS 52
7.3.1 Construction Noise 52
7.3.2 Operational Noise 54
7.3.3 Movement of RCVs 54
7.4 POTENTIAL AESTHETIC IMPACTS 55
7.4.2 The Landfill Site 55
7.4.4 The Wider Project Area 56
7.5 ROADS AND TRAFFIC IMPACTS 57
7.5.1 The Landfill Site 57
7.5.3 The Wider Project Area 58
7.6 GEOLOGY AND SOILS 60
7.6.2 Seismicity 60
7.6.3 Slope Stability 61
7.6.4 Cavities in the Limestone Underlying the Site 61
7.6.5 Off-site Sourcing of Landfill Earthwork Materials 62
7.7 HYDROGEOLOGY, HYDROLOGY AND WATER QUALITY 63
7.7.2 Contamination of Water Resources from Leachate Emissions 63
7.7.3 Alteration of Surface Water Regime 65
7.7.4 Increased Sediment Load of Surface Water 65
7.7.5 Contamination of Water Resources by Fuel Spillage 66
7.8 POTENTIAL IMPACTS ON FLORA AND FAUNA 68
7.8.2 Biological Habitats 68
7.8.3 Domestic Animals and Livestock 69
7.9 HEALTH AND SAFETY 70
7.9.2 Potential Health Impacts of MSW Disposal 70
-8-
7.9.3 Assessment and Management of Health and Safety Impacts 71
7.10 SOCIAL AND SOCIO-ECONOMIC IMPACTS 74
7.10.1 Land Acquisition and Land Use 74
7.10.2 Loss of Arable and Grazing Land 77
7.10.3 Impacts on Local Social Structure 77
7.10.4 Impacts on Local Employment 78
7.10.5 Impacts on Waste Pickers 78
7.10.6 Impacts on Culturally Significant Sites 80
7.10.7 Impacts of Induced Development 81
8 NEED FOR AWARENESS RAISING AND CAPACITY DEVELOPMENT 83
8.1.2 Awareness Raising 83
8.1.3 Gender Issues 83
8.1.4 Management and Labor Issues 83
8.2 IMPACTS ASSOCIATED WITH PROPOSED FORMAL WASTE RECYCLING 84
8.2.2 Proposals for Waste Separation and Recycling 84
8.2.3 Potential Impacts of Proposed Waste Separation Schemes 85
9 THE ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MANAGEMENT PLAN 86
9.1 INTRODUCTION 86
9.2 STRUCTURE OF THE ESMP 86
A Mitigation 90
9.3 IMPLEMENTATION ARRANGEMENTS 116
10 CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS 117
10.1 CONCLUSIONS 117
10.2 RECOMMENDATIONS 118
ANNEXES
1. Terms of Reference
2. References
3. Reports of Public Hearings and Consultations
4. List of EIA preparers
-9-
-1-
١ INTRODUCTION
١.١ Background
In the southern West Bank area, i.e. Bethlehem and Hebron governorates, improperly regulated
dumpsites for the disposal of municipal solid waste have led to unacceptable environmental
degradation. As a response to this deteriorating situation, the Solid Waste and Environmental
Management Project (SWEMP) has been initiated. It is funded by a Policy and Human Resource
Development (PHRD) grant given by the Government of Japan to the Palestinian Authority. Funds are
administered by the World Bank, through its International Development Association, and managed by
the Municipal Development and Lending Fund (MDLF).
Following competitive tender, Consultants group DHV BV from The Netherlands, with its consortium
partner Palestinian Hydrology Group (PHG) from Palestine (the consortium is further referred to as
‘Consultant’), were selected by the MDLF to undertake a consultancy assignment with the following
main components:
PART A –- FEASIBILITY STUDY

PART B – ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT
PART C – DESIGN AND TENDER DOCUMENTS
The Terms of Reference are attached at Annex A.
This document reports the findings of the Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) studies.
١.٢ Project Objectives
The main objectives of the SWEMP in the southern part of the West Bank are:
٦. To improve solid waste management in Hebron and Bethlehem Governorates
٧. To reduce the environmental pollution risks, especially the pollution of water sources.
٨. To maximize the potential social and environmental benefits and improve public health status
٩. To improve air quality through eliminating gas and smoke release from the unsanitary dumping
sites.
١٠. To improve the aesthetic view of the landscape
-2-
١.٣ ESIA Approach and Methodology
١.٣.١ The Project Planning Cycle
Prior to actual project implementation, the principal stages in the project planning cycle are as follows:
Stage I – Feasibility Study, and Basic Design of project proposals (completed);
Stage 2 – Selection of most favorable site and project proposals (ongoing);
Stage 3 – Environmental and Social Impact Assessment for selected project proposals (this report);
Stage 4 – Final site and project proposals selection;
Stage 5 – Final Design of Priority Investment and Tender Documents of approved project elements;
Stage 6 – Tendering of construction and development of project elements.
١.٣.٢ Status of the Design Proposals
The initial concept for the design of project activities has been established in the Feasibility Study (FS)
and Basic Design (BD), prepared in parallel with this ESIA study. The FS has proposed an approach to
engineering the site and has addressed the key engineering design and operational aspects of site
development. However, a number of specific aspects of site engineering will only be finalized at the
detailed design stage (Stage 4) after the final selection of the most favorable site and engineering
concept (Stage 4).
This ESIA has been prepared on the basis of the conceptual designs developed in the FS and BD
(Stage 1). It is important to acknowledge that the level of information provided in this report reflects the
nature/status of the project design upon which the ESIA has been based.
١.٣.٣ Assessment and Mitigation of Significant Impacts
The extent, significance and requirements for mitigation and management of all potential impacts
identified in the ESIA has been determined by considering the following factors:
• Existing baseline conditions within the receiving environment;

• the minimum performance standards assumed in the Basic Design of project proposals, on the
premise that these will be adhered to throughout the lifetime of the site development; and,
• the environmental norms and standards mandated by the competent authorities and by good
practice at all stages of the project lifecycle (site design, construction, operation, maintenance and
restoration).
The recommendations and performance standards thus identified will be stipulated in the Tender
Documents (Stage 5) prepared for project development and implementation. As such, these standards,
and any conditions attached to the receipt of environmental clearance for the project proposals, will be
binding contractual obligations placed upon the project developer and any contractors and sub-
contractors appointed by the project developer.
١.٣.٤ Approach of the ESIA
Sources of Data and Information

The EA report has been prepared and developed with consideration of the following sources:
• Terms of Reference for the West Bank SWM Study
• Final Site Selection Report, April 2008, DHV BV
• Draft Baseline Data Inventory Report discussing the environmental issues relating to the
development of the proposed landfill site
• Feasibility Study identifying the needs and options for an improved waste collection, transfer and
disposal program
-3-
• available maps, field survey reports, and other secondary sources;
• field surveys commissioned specifically for this study; and
• consultations with key stakeholders including decision makers and project affected groups including
local residents.
Contents
This ESIA documents the:
• current institutional framework for SWM in the West Bank;

• existing legal framework governing SWM in the West Bank;
• rationale underlying the project proposals;
• proposed project activities; and baseline conditions in the vicinity of the proposed landfill site.
And identifies, defines and evaluates:
• the suitability of the project proposals from an environmental perspective;

• any significant environmental and social impacts likely to arise from implementation of the
collection, transfer and waste disposal project components;
• appropriate measures to minimize any adverse environmental or social impacts;
• an environmental and social management plan (ESMP) to mitigate adverse environmental impacts;
• appropriate compensation for impacts that cannot be mitigated;
• opportunities for public benefit throughout the lifetime of the project;
• appropriate institutional arrangements to oversee project implementation, and
• a comprehensive monitoring program to evaluate the impacts of project activities.
Key Objectives
One key objective of the ESIA is to ensure that the project proposals, remediation of the current
dumpsites and the development of an engineered landfill, will not impact adversely upon the
environment. A second key objective is to maximize the potential environmental and social benefits from
the project proposals and the associated project investments.
The ESIA report contributes to these goals by:
• providing guidance to project decision makers on the environmental acceptability of the project
activities and permits planning and investment decisions to be made on a comprehensive
understanding of the anticipated project impacts; and
• providing a comprehensive three part ESMP that will guide the construction, operation and
supervision of the project.
١.٣.٥ Methodology
This ESIA report has been prepared in accordance with the following guidelines and requirements:
• National Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) guidelines including the EIA Brochure of the
Palestinian Environmental Authority, and the Israeli “Instructions and Guidelines to conduct a study
that assesses the Environmental Impact to construct a sanitary landfill for the wastes from Hebron-
Bethlehem-Jerusalem Periphery realm”.
• Recognized international policy and guidelines including EC EIA Directives and World Bank
Operational Policy/Bank Procedures/Good Practice (OP/BP/GP 4.01).
• Both the Israeli and Palestinian EIA systems require the scope of the ESIA to be agreed with the
relevant environmental authority prior to the elaboration of the environmental and social
assessments. The instructions of these bodies were followed to develop the scope of the studies
(described in Chapter 5).
-4-
١.٤ Report Structure
The report has been structured as specified in the Terms of Reference for this study and is set out in
three volumes as follows:
• Executive Summary
• ESIA report
• Annexes
Following this Introduction, the ESIA report is set out in eight further Sections as summarized below:
• Section 2 describes the policy, legal and institutional framework currently governing environmental
management in the West Bank, with particular reference to SWM and ESIA. Salient features of the
World Bank OP 4.01 are also identified and discussed.
• Section 3 presents a description of the project alternatives and the proposed project elements. The
Section also provides an overview of existing SWM services in the Hebron and Bethlehem
Governorate and the anticipated future SWM needs.
• Section 4 summarizes the outcome of public and stakeholder consultations carried out during the
preparation of the ESIA. The Section highlights key concerns of interested or affected parties.
• Section 5 identifies the key environmental and social issues associated with each component of the
project and describes how they have been investigated through the ESIA studies.
• Section6 describes the prevailing baseline environmental and social conditions in the Governorates
and specifically at the proposed sites of the landfill and associated infrastructure. The Section
details existing physical features and ecological resources and identifies social, socio-economic and
cultural features likely to be affected by any aspect of the proposed project.
• Section 7 provides an evaluation of the anticipated environmental and social impacts of the
proposed project. The significance of all potential impacts is assessed and key issues requiring
further mitigation, management and monitoring are identified.
• Section 8 sets out the Environmental and Social Management Plan which details the arrangements
that need to be made to ensure that all design features, and mitigation or enhancement measures
identified in this document are implemented and their effectiveness monitored.
Detailed information relevant to the ESIA, but not essential to understanding the identification,
assessment and management of impacts is included in four annexes as follows.
1. Terms of Reference
2. References
3. Reports of Public Hearings and Consultations
4. List of EIA preparers
-5-
٢ POLICY, LEGAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE FRAMEWORK
٢.١ Introduction
This Section presents the policy, legal and administrative framework governing environmental
management in the West Bank, with particular reference to the regulations governing SWM and the
requirements for ESIA. The specific procedures for project evaluation and approval are discussed also.
Project proposals will conform with applicable environmental policies, legislation, regulations and
guidelines of the Palestinian Authorities and the World Bank. These require that an EIA of the project
proposals must be prepared, evaluated and approved in the light of prevailing environmental policies
and regulations.
٢.٢ Institutional Framework
٢.٢.١ General
When the Palestinian National Authority was formed in mid nineties, it created many new municipalities.
Such municipalities had little to no experience in administering public services like solid waste
management (SWM). The relatively low performance level of SWM services in the Palestinian territory is
related to lack of strategies or policies for SWM as well as lack of infrastructure and capacity among the
old and newly created municipal and local councils. Despite the fact that some key improvements were
observed in the handling of solid wastes by local authorities toward the year 1999 – 2000, SWM has
become a serious concern and a huge burden to the local authorities as well as citizens. The restriction
of movement and access imposed on the towns and villages has left no options to them but to dump
their solid waste in areas close to their residential areas and in areas that are considered
environmentally significant. This situation has continued until today, where many villages and towns are
still using unsanitary landfills to dispose of their solid wastes.
However, following to the establishment of the Palestinian National Authority, it undertook to improve
SWM in the Palestinian Territory. It commissioned a study to form a master plan for SWM in the West
Bank. The master plan recommended having three central landfills. The first sanitary landfill was
established in the Northern part of the West Bank and the current report addresses the social and
environmental feasibility of establishing the second sanitary landfill to serve the Southern part of the
West Bank.
٢.٢.٢ Environmental Oversight of Solid Waste Management
To establish a competent authority at the Palestinian National Authority level, the Ministry of Planning
and International Co-operation (MoPIC) created the Environmental Planning Directorate (EPD) within its
structure. The Solid and Hazardous Waste Directorate (SHWD) of the EPD became the focal point of
governmental activities in the SWM sector.
In September 1995, the Oslo Interim Agreement was signed. Article 12 of the civil affairs of this
agreement deals with environmental co-operation, including matters pertaining to solid waste. The
agreement ‘binds’ the Palestinian Authority to deal with wastes in the West Bank and Gaza Strip.
In December 1996 the Palestinian Environmental Authority (PEnA) was created by decree of Chairman
Arafat. During 1997, its mandates and responsibilities were settled. In August 1997, a Memorandum of
Understanding was signed between PEnA and EPD. The latter handed over all documents and most of
its equipment. In April 1998, the Ministry of Health and PEnA signed a Memorandum of Understanding.
The Ministry of Health’s mandate in SWM was then restricted to inspection of facilities as well as to
management of medical wastes in the hospitals (not waste from private clinics or pharmacies). The
transportation and disposal of hospital waste became the responsibility of municipalities under the
supervision of PEnA. In August 1998, a Minister of Environmental Affairs took office; initially the Minister
-6-
acted without a Ministry. During 1999, PEnA became effectively the Ministry of Environmental Affairs
(MEnA). Environmental Quality Authority (EQA) was established by presidential decree in 2002 to
inherit MEnA, with the same powers and mandate.
The Palestinian Legislative Council approved the first Palestinian Environmental Law, which was signed
on 28 December 1999. The Law was published in the official gazette on the 28 March, 2000.
٢.٣ Institutional Responsibilities
٢.٣.١ Local Authorities
In theory, local authorities are responsible for solid waste collection and disposal in the West Bank.
Municipalities are mandated to take care of the collection of solid wastes in their municipal boundaries
and subsequently organize the removal of these solid wastes to a disposal site. In practice, the
collection of wastes is not 100%. There are a number of communities, however, for which there is no
municipal authority or village council; approximately 12 % of communities in Hebron District fall into this
category. In these circumstances responsibility for the provision of SWM services rests with the
community itself or, in refugee camps, with United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA).
At the time of preparing the ESIA Report, however, no clear organizational and institutional setting for
regional waste collection, transfer stations, haulage and the landfill has been established.
٢.٣.٢ Ministries
Ministry of Environmental Affairs now Environment Quality Authority

The EQA is the current authority responsible for environmental issues. It monitors solid waste activities,
organizes workshops and public awareness campaigns and decides on requests for disposal permits.
The Ministry stipulates the criteria for site selection, the Terms of Reference (scope) for Environmental
Assessment, identifies the overall waste strategy and suggests actions for strategy implementation. It
specifies monitoring requirements and is responsible for monitoring project development together with
other related institutions.
Ministry of Local Government

At national level MoLG is responsible for the activities of municipalities. This implies that policies and
implementation for municipal services, including the organization and administration of solid waste
services, fall under the remit of this Ministry. This Ministry plays an important role in, for example, the
financing of solid waste collection equipment, selection of disposal sites in co-ordination and co-
operation with EQA and the introduction of cost recovery mechanisms.
Ministry of Health (MoH)

Until May 1998 MoH monitored the dumps used for disposal of collected waste. Their concern was
limited to the direct risks to public health and did not extend to indirect risks via the environment, such
as the pollution of any groundwater aquifers. MoH continues to be responsible for medical wastes from
hospitals, although there is no registration of hazardous waste producers and there are no data for
medical waste generation. Recently, the MoH and EQA agreed to work together in this field. In addition,
data on clinics and pharmacies is incomplete and there are neither reliable data, nor registrations, of
(imports of) chemical or nuclear substances.
Ministry of National Economy (MoNE)

Industries produce a substantial quantity of solid waste and a significant percentage of the toxic wastes;
however, the Ministry of Industry does not have any department that deals with solid waste issues on an
ad hoc basis. As far as known there is no registration of hazardous waste producers.
-7-
Ministry of Justice (MoJ)
Although not directly involved in SWM, this Ministry plays an important role in enforcement of laws,
including municipal by-laws.
Ministry of Planning and International Co-operation (MoPIC)

MoPIC is the official channel for donor relations and plays an important role in the preparation of the
Palestinian Development Plan, in which SWM ranks high on the list of strategic initiatives for the future.
Ministry of Civil Affairs

The role of this Ministry is limited to the monitoring of the Israeli violations in this field, reporting and
arranging for the joint meetings to discuss related issues.
٢.٣.٣ Palestinian Water Authority (PWA)
This was the first inter-ministerial Authority to be established (1995). The PWA deals mainly with water
resources and related environmental issues. It grants or rejects licenses for activities with a ‘water
component’, including dump (solid waste disposal) sites that might pollute aquifers.
٢.٣.٤ Joint Services Council for SWM in Hebron and Bethlehem Governorates
The Local Government Law of 1997 created the legal basis for establishing an institutional framework
like a Solid Waste Management Council. By a ministerial decree, the Hebron-Bethlehem Joint Services
Council for Solid Waste Management was established. The JSC comprised all the local governments in
both Hebron and Bethlehem and the Hebron Governor’s Office, headed by the Mayor of Hebron
Municipality. As per April 2008, the JSC has most of the member representatives of the southern area
communities which will be served by the proposed landfill and the SWM improvement project. The JSC
provides an organizational mechanism for cost sharing and pooling of resources by municipalities and
village councils. It is envisaged that collective action will bring economic efficiencies to operations and
that the JSC will offer a regional organizational mechanism for services provisions in areas other than
SWM as well.
٢.٣.٥ Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs)
NGOs have dealt with solid waste management related issues in terms of research, including data and
information gathering, public awareness and training. Within the scope of this project it is expected that
NGO’s will be involved in social welfare, resettlement and social management plans. Specifically it is
foreseen that NGO’s will facilitate in re-employment of waste pickers currently active at the Yatta dump
site.
٢.٤ Legislation and Policy
٢.٤.١ Environmental Legislation
Much of the prevailing legislation pertaining to SWM in the West Bank can be traced back to Ottoman or
British roots and has been complemented only relatively recently, with orders issued from Palestinian
Governors and heads of municipal health departments. The currently applicable Laws and Regulations
include:
• Jordanian Public Health Law, 1966;

• Municipality Regulatory System;
• Israeli Military Orders;
• Palestinian Authority Orders;
• Municipal Policies and Regulations;
• Environmental Impact Assessment Policy, approved 23/04/2000 by the Cabinet;
-8-
• Palestinian Local Government Law of 1997;
• Oslo I and II Agreements.
١
• Other International Conventions and Treaties to Which Palestine is a signatory party.
• Palestinian Environmental Law # 7 for the year 1999.
The most directly relevant of these to the proposed project are the Palestinian Local Government Law of
1997, and the Palestinian Environmental Law of 1999. The Palestinian Local Government Law created
the legal basis for establishing frameworks like Solid Waste Management Councils, that can manage a
regional landfill facility and municipal waste collection on a district and regional scale. Article NO15 –
Paragraph 8 states that: All local authorities are responsible for collecting solid waste from public places,
transporting and disposing these wastes in the designated areas. The same article dictates that all local
authorities should take all precautions and procedures necessary to maintain public health and prevent
outbreaks of epidemics among the people. The law also stipulates that each local authority should
produce an internal regulation to govern various issues including the solid waste management within
their command areas similar to those were prevailing during the time of Jordanian jurisdiction.
The first Palestinian Environmental Law was signed in 1999. The law sets out the legal framework for
SWM, as follows.
Articles 7 to 10 deal specifically with solid waste and cover areas of responsibility of EQA at the national
level, viz.:
• master planning and supervision of implementation of the national plan (7);
• all related institutions to take part in the process of waste reduction, and support recycling and
reuse (8);
• the Ministry, together with related institutions, to stipulate appropriate site selection criteria (9); and
• the responsibility of all to handle construction wastes in an approved and acceptable way (10).
Articles I, 12 and 13 deal with hazardous materials and wastes, viz.:

• preparation of lists (registration) (11);
• no one can produce, store, distribute, use or treat or dispose of such materials without following
Ministry regulations and in full co-ordination with the Ministry (12); and
• such materials cannot be imported to Palestine (A), and for such materials to pass through
Palestinian land or water needs a Ministry permit (B) (13)
٢.٤.٢ Enforcement of Regulations
All the above mentioned laws, orders and regulations have ‘enforcement power’. The main base of the
enforcement system is the Jordanian Public Health Law # 43 and the municipality regulatory system.
Enforcement actions are usually taken by the municipality directly in some cases and through the ‘Soluh’
court, the police and sometimes the District Governor for much complicated cases.
Nonetheless, enforcement of environmental law remains problematic for several reasons, among which:
١. The law does not specify which competent authorities the EQA should deal with regarding
environmental issues or violations.
٢. It is difficult to enforce any laws in parts of the Palestinian Areas that are not controlled by the
PA especially "C" area.
١
Article 77 of the Palestinian Environmental Law stipulates that international conventions, where
Palestine is a signatory party, are considered as a complementary to law provisions being in force in the
Palestinian territory. However, given that Palestine is not a sovereign state yet, it has an observer status
in these conventions.
-9-
Also local authorities have been slow to obey the law, perhaps due to lack of capacity and conflicting
priorities. For example, although the Local Government Law requires authorities to produce regulations
dealing with solid waste, none have yet done so. Even the larger municipalities that have such
regulations from many years ago, such as Bethlehem and Hebron, are not able to implement them
properly. Bethlehem Municipality, for example, developed an internal regulation in 1956 which is still
legally valid that deals with the disposal of waste and garbage. This was used to compel traders and
residents to put solid wastes in specialized places, and criminalized non-compliance. It also gives the
right to official observers to enter the courtyard of a building or any place of business to ensure that the
provisions the law are fulfilled. Hebron municipality also has a special regime dating from the British
mandate that deals with solid waste management.
In response to the difficulties of local authorities in complying with the law, the MoLG has now
established Joint Service Councils which, in many cases, take the responsibility of supplying water and
solid waste services for a cluster of communities. The ministry aims at taking back the responsibility for
MSW and attracting funds to develop the sector at national level under the operational monitoring of
EQA. In this scenario, JSCs might become the preferred structures for dealing directly with the
operational aspects of MSW under the umbrella of the MoLG.
٢.٤.٣ Palestinian Environmental Policy and Planning
The Palestinian Environmental Strategy (PES), was published in October 1999 by MEnA. It covers the
political and social context, the legal and institutional framework, the environmental driving forces, the
environmental themes and the strategy elements. Solid waste generation, collection and disposal are
discussed as driving forces.
EQA has completed an Environmental Assessment Policy and begun implementation of the procedures.
The Environmental Assessment Policy, together with the NEAP, has, inter alia, the following goals:
• to conserve the social, historical and cultural values of the Palestinian people and their
communities;
• to ensure an adequate quality of life, health, safety and welfare for the Palestinian people;
• to preserve natural processes;
• to maintain the sustainable use and the long-term ability of natural resources to support human,
plant and animal life;
• to conserve bio-diversity and landscapes;
• to avoid irreversible environmental damage from development activities; and
• to ensure that the basic needs of the people affected or likely to be affected by a development
activity are not jeopardized.
Within the terms of the policy, EQA is responsible for the implementation and, therefore, for the approval
and assessment of environmental considerations in relation to proposed developments. It is expected
that the EQA will liaise with relevant institutions, such as the PWA, in relation to proposed
developments.
٢.٤.٤ Environmental Impact Assessment
The proposed project will require an EIA under Palestinian environmental policy and in accordance with
the procedures of the other interested parties (the Israeli authorities and the funding agencies,
represented by the World Bank). The form of EIA under Palestinian Policy is similar to that of the World
Bank (see details below). It requires a comprehensive EIA for projects likely to have significant impacts
and an Initial Environmental Evaluation (IEE) for projects where significant impacts are uncertain, or
where compliance with environmental regulations must be ensured. Completion of an IEE may
necessitate the conduct of a comprehensive EIA.
- 10 -
The Israeli EIA guidelines have also been taken into account during the preparation of the current ESIA
report. The main issues are similar to those required under the Palestinian EIA guidelines. Both the
Israeli and Palestinian EIA systems require the scope of the environmental assessment to be agreed by
the relevant authorities in advance of the execution of the environmental impact assessment. The
environmental scoping of this ESIA as presented in Section 5 has been approved accordingly.
The national authorities have also the responsibility for ensuring that the Environmental and Social
Management Plan will be implemented and monitored.
٢.٤.٥ International Environmental Assessment Guidelines
The prevailing international EIA procedures are those of such as the EC Directive 85/337 and 97/11/EC
and World Bank Operational Policy/Bank Procedures/Good Practices (OP/BP/GP 4.01) and associated
documents have also been taken into account in carrying out the ESIA
The purpose of undertaking an EIA is to improve decision-making and to ensure that project options
under consideration are environmentally sound and sustainable. The EIA should identify ways of
improving projects environmentally by preventing, minimizing, mitigating or compensating for adverse
impacts. Accordingly WB OP 4.01 identifies that project-specific ElAs should normally cover the
following aspects:
• Existing baseline environmental conditions;

• potential environmental impacts;
• systematic environmental comparison of alternative investments;
• systematic environmental comparison of alternative sites;
• systematic environmental comparison of alternative technologies and designs;
• preventive, mitigation or management plan;
• environmental management and training; and
• environmental monitoring.
The level of EIA performed should be based on the expected environmental impacts, as determined by
the type, location, sensitivity, and scale of the proposed project, as well as the nature and magnitude of
its likely potential impacts. Engineered or sanitary landfill projects are defined typically as Category A
projects within OP 4.01 and, as such, should be subjected to full environmental analysis through the
planning and implementation phases.
٢.٥ Project Approval Requirements
٢.٥.١ Project Proponent
The MoLG has decided that there will be central landfill sites to cover northern, central and southern
areas of the West Bank. Therefore a combined Joint Service Council for Hebron and Bethlehem
Governorates (JSC-H&B) been formed or which the two chairs of the Hebron and Bethlehem JSCs are
chair and deputy chair, respectively. The Solid Waste section of Hebron Municipality acts as
representative of the executive body and the Mayor of Hebron for the legislative body. Thus the JSC-
H&B is the Project Proponent for this project.
٢.٥.٢ Project Approving Agencies (West Bank and Israeli)
Within the terms of the Draft Environmental Assessment Policy, EQA is responsible for the assessment
of environmental issues related to the project proposals and, ultimately, for issuing environmental
clearance for the project to proceed. It is expected that EQA will liaise with relevant institutions in
considering all relevant issues raised by the proposed developments.
- 11 -
٢.٥.٣ Project Approval Requirements
Compensation Measures for Loss of Land in Productive Use

In general the following steps will be taken by the Palestinian Authority to ensure that the land is
available and all permits are in place for development of a sanitary landfill. These procedures were valid
up to the date of publishing this report and include the definition of compensatory measures for
landowners.
The procedures are as follows:
١. Preparation of a map of the land of the proposed landfill footprint and the immediate adjacent
lands, including the exact parcel numbers, boundaries and land-owners;
٢. The proposed Project has to be reviewed by the Higher Planning Council (HPC); and
٣. The HPC appoints a committee to assess measures to be taken to compensate landowners.
This Assessment Committee is headed by the Ministry of Finance, and further consists of
representatives from the MoLG, relevant Municipalities, Ministry of Agriculture and the Department of
Survey of the Ministry of Housing.
Other Approvals
After having settled all land-ownership issues involved, the Project will be reviewed in the Joint
Environmental Experts Co-ordination and Co-operation Committee consisting of Israeli and Palestinian
Authorities environmental experts.
The proposed landfill site falls in Area ‘C’ of the West Bank. Infrastructure projects, including solid
waste disposal sites, require approval of the Civil Administration of the State of Israel prior to receiving
construction permits. In particular, the following components of site infrastructure will be subject to
scrutiny and review:
• landfill sites, including all aspects of site engineering;

• dump sites;
• sorting and recycling facilities;
• compression stations;
• site restoration;
• access roads; and
• fencing.
Under the same approvals procedures, water supply and water/sewage treatment facilities, reservoirs,
dams, drainage channels and electrical installations all require approval of the Israeli authorities prior to
construction. Some of these types of infrastructure may be required for the completion of the currently
proposed project.
- 12 -
٣ DESCRIPTION OF THE PROPOSED PROJECT AND ALTERNATIVES
٣.١ Introduction
The set up of a regional SWM system, i.e. a central sanitary landfill, eventual transfer stations and long
haul transport, aims at the implementation of a stepwise process of changes towards achievement of up
to date integrated municipal waste management. Economic feasibility depends on finding affordable
long-term technical and financial solutions.
The conceptual design options and feasibility of the proposed project are evaluated in a Feasibility
Study for the proposed regional SWM system, conducted by the Consultant. The feasibility report
concentrates, next to a general assessment of the various technical options and regional SWM
configurations, on the technical comparison as well as the operational and financial feasibility of the
proposed landfill locations, and the proposed transfer station. Important aspects of the feasibility study
include the development of the conceptual designs, and consequent cost estimates for the selected
sites.
In this ESIA Report only the main features of the feasibility study are presented. The following map
shows the sites that were considered including the selected location (nr. 12). For details, reference is
made to the aforementioned report.
Figure 3.1: Map showing location of Potential Landfill Sites
Location of the preferred landfill (nr. 12)
- 13 -
٣.٢ Existing Solid Waste Generation and Future Management Needs
٣.٢.١ Sources of Municipal Solid Waste
The Itau/UNEP reports mention that local surveys and estimates indicate that household waste
accounts for 45-50 % of the total MSW, in the West Bank, with the construction and industrial sectors
together constituting 20-25 %, and remaining types (e.g. commercial, institutional) about 25-30 % (Al-
Hamadi, M., 2002). Hazardous material is to some extent present in all these waste types, although
such material is only a significant component of industrial and hospital waste.
The Consultant has carried out a solid waste survey, using a questionnaire, in the municipalities of the
Hebron and Bethlehem governorates. The results are presented in the following tables.
Table 3.1: Solid Waste Generation per capita in Hebron Governorate
Population size based on earlier published projected values by PCBS
- 14 -
Table 3.2: MSW generation per capita in Bethlehem Governorate
* Population size based on earlier published projected values by PCBS
From the above, the average waste generation for the Hebron Governorate may be estimated at 0.65-
0.70 kg/day per capita and for the Bethlehem governorate at about 1.0 kg/day per capita. The total
waste collected was 221,000 ton/yr which represents around 90% of the total generated (collection
efficiency for Hebron and Bethlehem is estimated at 92% and 94% respectively).
The figures presented above are low compared, for instance, to Western Europe (around 2.5 kg), which
is largely due to the different economic situation of the people in the catchment. It might therefore be
assumed that the per capita amounts will grow as the economic situation improves. There is uncertainty
about the volumes of waste likely to be generated but the precise quantities are not critical to the
feasibility of the proposed scheme.
For the design phase a figure of 190,000 ton/yr for the year 2007 has been used to calculate the
required capacity of the disposal facility. This value gives a safe margin to avoid underestimation of
waste volume while taking care that overestimation does not lead to wasteful and costly oversizing of
the facility.
٣.٢.٢ Characteristics of Municipal Solid Waste
For the estimation of the required capacity of the landfill over a 20-year period, the available data on the
waste composition has to be considered, particular with respect to the (feasible) options for recycling
and composting, as well as the gas extraction system to be installed in the landfill. Unfortunately up to
date, reliable data, based on systematic and periodical waste surveys and analysis are not available.
Therefore below an overview is given of the available, most recent data for the project area.
In the Draft Master Plan, Phase II Volume 1 (prepared by Environmental Resources Management,
ERM), the following composition of municipal solid waste in the Occupied Palestinian Territories is
given:
- 15 -
Table 3.3: Waste Composition in the Palestinian Territories
- organic : 60%
- paper : 10%
- plastic/rubber : 9%
- glass : 5%
- ferrous metals : 4%,
- wood, : 3%
- aluminum : 2%
- textiles : 2%
- others : 5%
These figures are reasonable. The relatively high fraction of organic wastes (60-70%) is not unusual for
areas with a low level of economic activity. Given this high organic component, there is potential in
future to reduce the waste volumes to be disposed of at the landfill by composting. This affects the
projection of future waste volumes (see 3.2.4 below).
3
The waste density is estimated at about 0.30 ton/m , which is comparatively high, but is also reasonable
given the large organic content.
٣.٢.٣ Disposal
Currently most of the solid waste from Hebron Governorate and from some villages in Bethlehem
Governorate is dumped at the dumping site at Yatta. Solid waste from Israeli settlements in Hebron,
from the UNRWA-managed refugee camps, and some industrial waste is also taken to the dumpsite. In
all, between 100 and 120 trucks with average capacity around 8 tons discharge at the site daily.
A private company has a contract from Hebron municipality to operate the site (spreading and
compacting, covering and preventing burning), using 2 bulldozers, a shovel and an excavator.
The staffing at the site comprises:

• 8 staff members of the contractor;
• 3 staff members of the Hebron municipality to supervise the contractor, manage the trucks and
collect fees;
• One supervisor and two guards who collect fees from private persons who want to dump at the site.
In addition about 40 waste-pickers collect metals, clothes, shoes, wood and plastic at the site.
The site still has some capacity but the environmental and social conditions do not meet national and
international standards. The remainder of waste is disposed of at informal dump sites.
٣.٢.٤ Anticipated Future Needs
Based on the present population and forecasts for the Hebron and Bethlehem governorates, as well as
the estimates and forecasts for the waste generation per capita, the total annual waste generation over
the project period can be calculated. The most important parameters and factors that will influence the
waste generation, and thus the required capacity of the regional landfill in the next 20 year (2010-2030)
project period are as follows.
• Population growth: Based on population growth figures of about 3% per annum, the population in
the project area will almost double in the coming 20 years, and consequently also the generated
waste volumes (if no reduction-minimization actions are taken).
- 16 -
• Waste generation per capita: Waste generation per capita is affected by economic growth and by
waste minimization and other -public awareness campaigns. It has been assumed some increase
(about 1% per year) in waste generation will occur over the life of the project.
• Improved MSW collection rate: It is assumed that collection efficiency will rise to 100% in 5-6 years.
• Increased recycling and composting: Significant reduction of the waste being disposed at the landfill
can be achieved, by increasing the recycling rates for the various waste streams, and in particular,
by starting composting the major organic waste fraction. In the forecast no significant reduction is
expected in the first 5 - 6 years, however significant reductions are assumed in the period after
2020.
The waste forecasts that follow are mostly based on the available literature on these various factors. This
approach has been used many times in similar situations and projects. However, some previous
experience indicates that the actual waste volumes/tonnages delivered at the landfill may be
considerably lower than forecasted. For this reason a phased, cellular development of the landfill (i.e. in
phase of 4-5 years) has been proposed so that after the first 4-5 years of operation, when the waste
generation and disposal data are known, the authorities can decide on any further expansion and the
expected lifetime of the landfill.
Table 3.4: Summary of Assumptions used in Waste Generation Forecast
Population:
Hebron governorate (2007) : 614.524
Annual growth : 3,1% from 2010 to 2,0 % in 2030
Bethlehem governorate (2007) : 171.000
Annual growth : 2,55% from 2010 to 1,5 % in 2030
Waste generation:
Hebron governorate : 0,66 kg/capita/day
Bethlehem governorate : 0,81 kg/capita/day
Annual increase (2008-2030) : 1%
Annual increase in recycling/composting rate : 0 -20% (in 2030)
- 17 -
Table 3.5 Population and Waste Arisings in 2010, 2020 and 2030
Over the 20 year lifetime of the project the following total waste tonnage/volume to be disposed at the
Hebron-Bethlehem regional landfill is forecasted:
Table 3.6: Total waste generation Hebron-Bethlehem governorates (2010-2030)
As said, in the forecasts a moderate increase of the recycling and composting activities has been taken
into account. It must be clear that a greater (or lesser) increase in the recycling and/or composting rates
will have a significant impact on the life time of the landfill.
٣.٣ Alternative Waste Collection and Transfer Options
٣.٣.١ Introduction and Background
In the southern West Bank area, i.e. Bethlehem and Hebron governorates, the existing unsanitary
dumpsites have caused environment degradation that is now considered unacceptable. Remedial
actions are necessary to improve and modernize SWM in an integrated way. The needed improvement
is to be realized through the Southern West Bank Solid Waste Management Project (SWBSWMP).
- 18 -
The focus of the SWBSWMP is on the establishment of a regional sanitary landfill for both the
Bethlehem and Hebron governorates. The project covers the development and construction of a
sanitary landfill and related infrastructure, including necessary transfer stations and long haul transport
facilities. The JSC-H&B acts as a proponent of the proposed project.
The project proponent has undertaken a planning process that has included a series of studies
investigating the various alternative ways in which the overall project aim can be met. The aim was to
identify viable alternatives that can fulfill the project goals with an optimum balance between costs and
residual environmental and social impacts. Five principal ways in which the key objectives of the project
might be achieved by practical alternative development strategies were examined as follows:
١. the ‘zero’ option - continuation of existing collection and disposal practices;

٢. alternative waste collection and transfer systems;
٣. alternative waste disposal systems;
٤. alternative sites and accesses for the landfill and associated infrastructure; and/or,
٥. alternative engineering measures and operational practices.
The following sections summarize the minimum functional requirements for waste management
improvements in Hebron/Bethlehem Governorates (project objectives) and assess the capability and
suitability of each of these alternative strategies to meet the project objectives.
٣.٣.٢ The “Zero Option”
There are major environmental and social effects of the existing waste disposal system. These are
detailed in Section 6, and include air and water pollution, land degradation, and harm to the health and
livelihood practices of vulnerable groups (the child waste-pickers). The high potential for environmental
impacts associated with the current environmentally unsecured disposal methods arises principally due
to:
• Poor original selection of the dump sites (based on convenience rather than environmental
acceptability);
• Limited control over site access and hence over waste-picking, waste burning and illegal dumping;
• Absence of control over emissions of pollutants released from waste decomposition.
Contamination of surface water (wadis) and groundwater resources via uncontrolled discharges of
rainwater runoff and leachate is of most concern. Analyses of leachate obtained from three of the largest
existing dump sites confirm the significant potential that exists for the contamination of surface water
and groundwater resources via uncontrolled discharges of leachate.
Similarly, residential communities adjacent to dump sites are affected by the practice of burning waste
on-site, resulting in thick plumes of smoke with comparatively high concentrations of particulate matter,
including toxic substances released, but not destroyed by, low-temperature burning. The same
communities are impacted also by odor generated by decomposing waste that attracts large numbers of
vermin and pests. Continuing disposal of waste via uncontrolled dump sites will only serve to exacerbate
these impacts throughout the region as the number of dump sites proliferate in order to accommodate
the increasing quantities of MSW generated.
Notwithstanding that open dumping is the least cost financial solution for dealing with waste for disposal
it is apparent that continued open dumping is not sustainable from practical, social and environmental
considerations. Some form of strategic approach to the area’s waste disposal requirements needs to be
taken if the project objectives, and the requirements of the Palestinian people, are to be met.
- 19 -
٣.٣.٣ Alternative Waste Collection and Transfer Systems
Waste Collection
Collection and haulage schemes for the proposed SWM system were examined using the waste
volumes predicted to need removing during the life of the project, (see Section 3.2.6) and then applying
the following criteria - ‘cost-efficiency’, ‘affordability’, ‘willingness to pay’, ‘polluter pays’, ‘charge the ones
who can afford’ and, where possible, ‘limit cross subsidies’ and ‘maintain equity across the service
receivers’.
The system selected and described below (Section 3.4) has been founded upon two basic principles:
• the use of the existing equipment; and

• the desire to minimize the risks to public and environmental health.
The choice of Refuse Collection Vehicles (RCVs) will be left to the operators so long as the vehicles
meet the applicable performance and environmental standards. Compactor trucks will probably not be
suitable during the first phase of operations. These are cost-effective if collecting waste from communal
containers, provided the community makes the effort to bring the waste to the container. To date, in
many of the larger towns in Southern West Bank, experience of the use of communal containers is that
the filling rate is often less than 20 %. At this level, the use of compactor trucks is not feasible.
The use of existing equipment, well maintained and along the routes designated, and replacement
RCVs as necessary, is not predicted to give rise to any significant social or environmental effects.
Alternative collection and haulage systems could be formulated that might involve varying truck types
and size, haulage routes or the frequency of movements. If unexpected impacts arise during the
operational phase of the project alternative systems could be developed.
Transfer Station
A transfer station is a facility situated near a waste collection area where the RCVs can discharge their
load for reloading onto larger vehicles for economic transport to the landfill. Transfer stations are used
to optimize the efficiency of waste collection and transport systems. Depending on the collection areas
and routes, waste collection vehicles have an operational radius within which they are cost-effective and
the transfer station can be used to assist in maintaining the overall efficiency of the waste collection
system. The decision on whether transfer stations are needed depends on a number of factors, but
particularly on the distance and costs of direct haulage to landfill compared to the costs of a system with
transfer.
Analysis of costs shows that that construction of transfer station for transportation of 100 tons per day
can pay back if transportation distances exceed a 25-30 km round- trip. There are several potential
locations where a transfer station between communities and the proposed al-Menya site might be
viable. In the first phase of the project a transfer station in South Hebron is proposed. Others may be
developed at a later stage subject to need and the availability of suitable sites.
٣.٣.٤ Alternative Waste Disposal Systems
The recognized principles for dealing with MSW in an environmentally responsible manner can be
summarized in a “waste management hierarchy” where the highest priority is to avoid generating waste
in the first instance or, if waste is generated, the quantity is minimized. The next best option is to re-use
or recycle materials as much as practicable, or to employ waste treatment technologies with the aim of
recovering materials and/or energy while minimizing the quantities of waste requiring final disposal.
Depositing waste into engineered landfill is considered the least acceptable option, to be used only
when other alternatives have been exhausted or are not practicable or applicable. The study has
- 20 -
considered to what extent alternatives to landfill are appropriate in the southern West Bank. The
findings are as follows
Avoid and Minimize

Experience in Asia, Europe and North America indicates that programs aimed at waste minimization
must be undertaken at the level of both central government and local government, often over a
prolonged period of time. Waste minimization programs require both a ‘carrot’ and a ‘stick’ approach,
involving a range of incentives, educational campaigns and awareness programs, combined with
legislation and statutory instruments which address the quantities of waste generated at source (for
example, packaging materials). The latter requires a significant degree of political will to instigate, since
invariably there are costs to be borne by industry and the consumer/purchaser.
The SWBSWMP includes institutional and capacity development actions aimed at waste minimization.
The effectiveness of these will not be apparent until sometime in the future. It is, however, unlikely that
waste generation will be reduced to a level at which the landfill is unnecessary in the foreseeable future.
Recovery, Recycle and/or Re-use

The West Bank already has an informal materials recovery and recycling sector, but only with respect to
recyclable metals. Experience elsewhere in Gaza indicates that, in the absence of economic
instruments or incentives to promote recycling, little potential exists currently for materials recovery to be
increased in a cost-effective and self-sustaining manner. Notwithstanding that, the current waste stream
offers some potential for materials recovery, although insufficient to reduce the volume of material going
to landfill significantly. It is worth taking action to promote materials recovery however, to reduce the
rate of increase of waste volume and to provide livelihood possibilities to waste pickers who will be
displaced when the existing dumpsites are closed. The potential for waste recovery has been examined
therefore and elements have been included in the project.
Treatment
A range of re-use and treatment technologies have been developed to extract value from waste and
minimize the quantities of waste that are delivered to a landfill for final disposal. Commercially-proven
technologies include composting, anaerobic digestion/bio-gas production and waste to energy, including
incineration. International experience has been that it is extremely difficult to make composting schemes
commercially viable. Nevertheless composting could be economically viable in the current project
because of the high organic content of solid waste in the Governorates (around 60 % of the waste
stream). On the basis of this, plus the waste arising from food markets and selectively retrieved
agricultural waste, there is potential for a pilot composting scheme to be developed, with an initial input
rate of between 15 t to 25 t per day. If successful this could reduce the volume of MSW being
generated in the service area of the Governorates by 9-15 %.
Composting in the rural communities of the Hebron and Bethlehem governorates is feasible at
household level (based on PHG and other NGOs experience). The organic fraction of household waste
can be composted using simply made wood boxes. The dissemination of the idea requires starting pilot
and demonstration projects. There is a ready demand for the compost in the West Bank where
bituminous soil is mostly imported at high cost, and the soils often require improvement of moisture
content storage and porosity. Currently, in the Hebron-Bethlehem area, one kg of compost costs more
than one NIS.
Waste to Energy
Anaerobic digesters can be used for processing wastes to produce biogas for fuel. Suitable wastes for
digestion are usually slurries and liquid wastes of a constant composition. There are no large-scale,
commercially viable, schemes in operation at present which use MSW as a feedstock. It is therefore
considered unlikely that bio-gas systems will have any significant role to play in the Hebron and
Bethlehem Governorates.
- 21 -
Aside from bio-gas production, other forms of waste to energy schemes attempt to mobilize the calorific
value of waste by physical or chemical combustion. Through the process of combustion the volume of
waste is reduced considerably, by up to 90 %, leaving only the residue to be disposed to landfill.
However, methods to reduce the volume of waste to be disposed are not considered to be economically
viable without energy recovery, and for energy recovery in excess of 100 tons/day of high calorific
wastes is required. Waste in the project catchment has too high moisture content and too low calorific
value for incineration to be a viable option at present.
Summary
The alternative disposal/treatment options cannot provide a sustainable and comprehensive solution
that meets all project objectives. This can only be done by developing a basic infrastructure (i.e.
collection, transfer and disposal system) that is environmentally secure and operationally sound. As
such an engineered (sanitary) landfill should be viewed as the primary, and currently most appropriate,
method for disposal of waste in the Governorates. Nevertheless some of the options for reducing the
volume of waste could complement the landfill, particularly in future phases when the quantity of waste
grows and the composition may change. Complementary reduction, minimization and treatment
measures will be considered in the further development of the proposed project.
٣.٣.٥ Alternative Sites for the Landfill
To identify better locations for waste disposal, a site selection study was conducted. The objective was
to develop a selection concept, to make an inventory of potential locations for regional landfills, and to
develop consensus about the ranking of the locations. Housing areas, buffer zone around housing
areas, influence zones around water wells, were some of excluding criteria applied in searching for a
suitable location for a new regional landfill. If land acquisition was considered impossible because of
expected difficulties to reach agreements with the owner(s), these areas were excluded from the search
area. Land used for agricultural and industrial production was also excluded from the search area . This
is in line with the main objective of the World Bank’s policy on involuntary resettlement: “Involuntary
resettlement should be avoided where feasible, or minimized, exploring all viable alternative project
designs”. Consequently only arid areas, where land can only be used for grazing purposes, entered the
short list of potential landfill locations.
The site selection short listing process also considered issues such as social, planning and
political/juridical factors. Then a four phase approach (exclusion, reduction, scoring and ranking) was
used to evaluate a total of 15 potential landfill sites that had been suggested by the local authorities and
the Israeli Civil Administration. In all 11 of the potential sites were assessed in detail by international
and local experts and for each of the visited sites a field report and description was made. A detailed
Site Investigation Report was issued in April 2008
After all locations were identified and assessed, al-Menya site (no. 12 on Figure 3.1) located between
the municipalities of Hebron and Bethlehem was judged to be the best option. This selected site is
located at a distance of about 2 km south-east of al-Menya village. The site area is about 25 ha which is
sufficient to allow waste disposal for at least 20 years.
The preferred site was chosen due to its location approximately midway between the two governorates
to be served by the project and because the geology, surrounding land uses and ecological setting all
indicated that the potential for significant negative environmental and social impacts was less than at
other sites. The site technical specifications are the best of those visited and there are no significant
difficulties anticipated with regard to land lease or ownership transfer. The site lies within “Area C” as
designated by the Israeli Civil Administration, which means that certain activities and movements may
be restricted, but formal consent in principle has been granted by the Israeli authorities to use the site.
- 22 -
٣.٤ The Preferred Option for the Disposal of MSW
A concept and design for the regional waste management system has been developed focusing on the
preferred location for the regional landfill site in area of the al-Menya local council and for the transfer
station south of the city of Hebron. A feasibility study has been also conducted and the ESIA studies
reported in this document were carried out. The key features of the design are set out in the following
sub-sections in sufficient detail to allow the reader to identify and assess the environmental and social
impacts. Full details of the design are set out in the Feasibility Report.
Figure 3.2: Selected site for the Regional Sanitary Landfill
٣.٤.١ Landfill Design Features
National and international technical regulations and guidance require that a modern sanitary landfill
design should incorporate basic features to protect the environment. These include measures to
contain, collect and, if necessary, treat contaminated water (leachate), as well as measures to collect
and treat landfill gas and systems to control the amount and types of waste entering the site.
Taking into account the above considerations, the projected nature and quantity of the waste to be
received (about 4,9 million m³ over a 20 year period, see Section 3.2) and the topography of the
preferred site, conceptual designs of landfill were prepared. The basic features are outlined below.
Site dimensions
• Length: 750 m in maximum
• Width: 370 m in maximum
• Area: 25.4 ha , total (20.4 ha for landfilling)
- 23 -
Volume of landfill
The landfill site was divided into four development stages (each of 2 cells). Each phase will have a
lifetime (filling time with waste) of 5 years. The maximum height of the filled waste amounts to about
40m. According to the waste volume forecast for the Hebron / Bethlehem Governorate the following
waste volumes and the necessary site areas (A) were designed:
• 2010 – 2014: waste volume = 1,1 Mio. m³ A ~ 50.000 m²
• 2025 – 2029: waste volume = 4,9 Mio. m³ A = 204.000 m²
Landfill Components
The design, in its final stage, of the landfill shall include:
١. landfill itself (including cell division)
٢. base sealing system
٣. leachate collection and evaporation pond
٤. internal roads
٥. fence and gate
٦. weighing bridge
٧. buildings ( administration building, reception building, vehicle and maintenance shop)
٨. parking area
٩. water storage
١٠. rain water drainage system
١١. recycling and composting plant (optional)
١٢. gas collection and energy recovery system
١٣. storage of materials
١٤. vegetation plan
Layout of the Site

As indicated in Figure 3.3 the landfill will be divided into 8 cells; one for every 2-3 years operation.
These cells will be separated by dikes, so that no rainwater from cells which are not in operation can
flow to the actual filling cell. Maximum leachate discharge (worst case scenario) to the leachate pond
will occur when the 4th cell is at the beginning of its fill (so most of the rain becomes leachate without
almost no retention in the waste ) and the other 3 former operated (cells 1,2,3 are covered only with a
temporary cover layer. not fully impervious) which are still generating leachate but at a reduced rate.
- 24 -
Figure 3.3: General Layout of the sit,
Base Sealing System

The base of the landfill will be sealed so that leachate generated can be retained inside the landfill and
collected for safe disposal. Ideally the natural subsoil underneath and surrounding a landfill would
constitute a geological barrier. As none of the proposed site in the Hebron / Bethlehem governorates
have suitable soil (the subsoil of the site areas consists either of rocky material or of sandy materials),
an integrated base lining system using a geo-membrane will be installed. The integrated liner will
consist of an upper (primary) geo-membrane liner to collect the leachate, and a lower (secondary) GCL
mat liner as a backup to the primary liner.
Geo-textiles may be used in conjunction with the membranes to prevent the movement of small soil and
refuse particles into the leachate collection layers and to protect geo-membranes from punctures. These
materials allow the movement of water but trap particles to reduce clogging in the leachate collection
system.
Geo-membranes and geo-textiles can be constructed from various plastic materials, including polyvinyl
chloride (PVC) and high-density polyethylene (HDPE). The selected material for this project is HDPE.
This material is strong, resistant to most chemicals, and impermeable to water. It meets international
standards (European and World Bank) for permeability. Moreover it has been used successfully in the
Jenin landfill. A support layer is necessary between the mostly rocky ground material and the sealing
system. The drainage layer will be made out of gravel material with a grain size of 16/32 mm or 8/16mm.
The base sealing system will therefore be as follows.
•
2
400 gr/m non-woven geotextile or 30 cm sandy-silt material layer.
2 -7
GCL mat 3.7 Kg/m , mm or 45 cm clay layers with permeability that will not exceed 10 cm /sec.
• Geo membrane HDPE, 1.5 mm thick.
•
2
500 gr/m non woven geo-textile.
- 25 -
• 40 cm drainage layer (dolomite or volcanic gravel, size16-32 mm).
See Figure 3.4
Figure 3.4 The Base Sealing System
Leachate collection
Leachate is generated due to chemical processes in the landfill, the water content of the waste
deposited at the site and the inevitable infiltration of rainwater during operation of the site. It contains
several organic and inorganic pollutants and need to be collected and treated.
HDPE pipes will be used for leachate collection. A main leachate collecting pipe will be located in the
deepest point of the landfill area running nearly from north-west to south-east. Leachate drain pipes will
be placed at right angles or less to the main pipe. Inclination of leachate pipes system will be a minimum
of 2 % for leachate drain pipes and of 3 % for main leachate pipes.
All leachate flow will be drained to the lowest points (for each main pipe). At those points, a pumping pit
will be arranged by extra depression of the area at the south-west corner of cells no. 1 and no. 2. Those
sensitive points will be protected by an extra geo-membrane. At those points, possible leakage will be
monitored by the leakage drainage system under the pumping pit that will be connected to an
observation pit out of cell, with free access.
On the slope of the pumping pits, high diameter raisers will be installed. Through the raiser, a suction
pipe connected to a self-prime pumping system will be lowered to the bottom of the pumping pit. The
pumping system control panel and manifold will be externally installed. The operation of the pumping
stations will be automatic.
See Figure 3.5.
- 26 -
Figure 3.5 Leachate Collection System
The dimensions and arrangement of the leachate pipes will be determined by the detailed design
process using “worst case” assumptions on landfill operation not to allow leachate build-up head above
30 cm.
The upper end of each main will be raised to the top elevation of the cell embankment. The pipe will be
closed with a flange. This installation will enable the verification of the existence of free flow through
those pipes, although the expected longitudinal slope will be 10% approx. and no settlement or clogging
in the pipe may be expected at this slope.
Leachate treatment
In the collection pond, primary treatment of the leachate occurs naturally (sedimentation, natural
biological degradation of organic pollutants and evaporation). Whenever necessary, (that is, if the
leachate volume exceeds the capacity of the pond due to precipitation events) the leachate will be
recirculated by spraying over the surface of already lined cells of the landfill. The design does not initially
include secondary leachate treatment because the low rainfall and high evaporation characteristics of
the project area indicate that it will not be necessary. However, the volume of leachate generated will
be monitored throughout the operation of the landfill.
The HELP model for leachate generation provided the estimation that 50% of the annual rain over active
cell and 10% over a temporary closed cell with intermediate cover will transform into "flowing" leachate.
For the leachate generation estimation, it was assumed that one cell is active and the remainder,
temporary closed.
Using a high value of annual rain of 300 mm/a, (based on YATIR meteorological station, South of
3
Hebron) the expected leachate generation is 6,240 m /year.
According to Tzor'a station evaporation data (at the western Jerusalem heights), it may be expected that
2
water annual evaporation rate will be 1400 mm/year; the surface of the leachate pond will be 4500 m
- 27 -
approx. The depth of the pond considers the fact that during the winter time, the evaporation rate will
decrease while rain intensity and leachate generation will increase.
The proposed dimensions of the leachate pond are:

2 2
Area: top - 4900 m , bottom - 3500 m
Depth: 2 m
3
Volume: 8,400 m
The pond will be excavated in the natural ground, at a slope of 1:2.
Above the compacted sub-base, a protection layer will be installed (natural or synthetic). The sealing
system will comprise two layers of HDPE geo-membrane with a thickness not less than 1.5 mm, each,
separated by a drainage layer such as "Geonet" similar and a leakage detection system.
Gas collection & treatment

The anaerobic decomposition of organic substances inside a landfill causes development of landfill gas.
The gas can, in some circumstance, migrate away from the site and cause explosions. Best practice is
to collect the gas and burn it, with energy recovery (eg a small power plant for energy or heat
production) if feasible from the economical point of view.
With a good degasifying system it will be possible to collect at least 50 % of the produced gas. The
landfill is actively degasified by means of a vertical gas collecting system. After filling each cell of the
landfill vertical gas wells (gas vents) will be built into the waste. These allow gas to be collected through
perforated HDPE pipes linked to a compressing station. A compensation layer between the waste and
the mineral surface sealing of the filled cells will be constructed through which gas can flow easily and
which allows supply to the gas vents.
The gas pumping station will be located in facilities zone at the northern part of the landfill. Inside the
station blowers will provide the required negative pressure gradient in the landfill body which guarantees
active degasifying at a high gas collection rate. The gas will be directed to a landfill gas flare beside the
gas pumping station where the gas will be incinerated at temperatures of about 1,000-1,200° C. The
possible use of the extracted gas for electricity or heat generation has not been considered at this stage
of the project. There will be five year of operation at least before gas is collected from the first cell
during which the feasibility of energy recovery can be considered.
Surface Water Collection

The volume of rainwater or surface run-off that comes into contact with the waste in the landfill, or the
leachate, should be minimized to reduce the potential for contamination. The surface of the waste body
will to be covered intermediately during operation of the landfill and finally after closure of the landfill.
The rainwater that flows from the surrounding areas and (after filling) from the surface seal of the landfill,
will be captured by ditches around the landfill body and directed to the lowest point of the landfill, located
to the south. The ditches along the landfill berms will be lined to avoid erosion of the cover layers of the
closed cells. From this low point, the run-off water will be led by gravity to the wadi that drains away to
the south-east direction. A rainwater retention pond is not necessary.
Detailed meteorological information applicable to the landfill site is not available. To estimate the depth
of ditch needed to deal with extreme rainfall, therefore, a storm water event of 30 mm for a 60 minute
rainfall has been assumed. This figure was then used for calculating maximum surface water discharge.
Given that average yearly rain fall is 300 mm, such a storm water event would be a very rare
occurrence.
Using the above assumption, the maximum discharge that the drainage system must cater for is 1,600
m³ in 60 minutes. That means that the ditch has to be designed to discharge 445 l/s at the deep point.
- 28 -
Waste filling
The vehicles delivering waste have to unload the waste at a distance of about 10 m from the actual
waste filling area. The waste is transported to the filling area using a compactor and will be filled into the
cell by the compactor in layers with a maximum thickness of 50 cm. The waste filling area will be
dimensioned in such a way that after approximately 3 days the next waste layer can be started. In this
way odor is minimized and waste incorporation by the compactor prevents the production of wind-blown
debris. Immediately after waste filling, the active disposal area will be covered with a soil layer of about
20 cm in thickness.
Surface Sealing System

In order to achieve a total disposal volume of about 4.9 Mio. m³, in the area of the site, the waste has to
be shaped into a pile with an inclination of 1:3, and the height of the final structure will be up to about 40
m (See Figure 3.6 and Figure 3.7). As a result a new “hill” will be created in the landscape. When the
cells are filled, to prevent the infiltration of rainwater into the waste body, as well as to avoid the spread
of waste to the surrounding area (caused by wind) the final waste body has to be covered by a surface
sealing system. This will comprise the following
• A “compensation layer”, comprising 50 cm of sandy – silty material, between the body of waste and
the sealing layer. This is necessary as a foundation for the sealing layer, protecting it from the
rough structured waste body, and as a space within which landfill gas can accumulate and be
extracted.
Figure 3.6 Conceptual Closure Layout of the Landfill
- 29 -
A “sealing layer”, which forms an impermeable barrier, keeping landfill gas inside and rainwater out of
the body of waste. A bentonite mat will be used for the surface sealing layer, as appropriate clay is
probably not available in this specific zone and, the alternatives are not suitable (asphalt has insufficient
resistance against settlement of the waste body and “Bento-Kies” is too expensive. Textured HDPE
geo-membrane be an alternative. Geo-textiles will be used as protection and drainage as required by
the detailed design.
• A “drainage layer”, above the sealing layer through which rainwater falling on to the surface of the
landfill can flow off, into the surface drainage channels. The drainage layer will be made out of
-3
gravel material with a grain size of 16/32 mm or 8/16 mm and a permeability of ≥ 1 x 10 m/s.
• A “recultivation layer” on which vegetation is grown to cover the structure and integrate it back into
the natural surrounding environment.
- 30 -
Figure 3.7 Typical Cross-Section of the Landfill
-1-
Accident prevention and safety measures
The following measures are planned:
• Ground material of a volume of at least 200 m³ will be stored near the waste filling area for fire
fighting on the landfill.
• A utility water pipe sufficiently dimensioned for firefighting will be constructed nearby and
around the facilities zone.
• Smoking is only allowed in the staff room of the operation building.
• In all buildings fire extinguisher have to be fixed.
• Outside slopes will be covered with ground material until the surface sealing system is
constructed.
Safety boots, safety gloves, weather protection clothes, ear protection and warning clothes for the staff
guiding the truck to the place of disposal for vehicles will be available for every person who works on the
landfill.
Control and monitoring measures

The following control measures will be taken:
• Control of the delivering vehicles (every vehicle)
• Inspection and, if indicated, analysis of waste if it is suspected that it has been wrongly
declared
• Gas analysis (once a year)
• Leachate analysis (once a year)
• Inspection of all roads in the landfill area and of the fence during filling process (daily)
• Inspection of all roads in the landfill area, the fence and the recultivated areas after closing time
(weekly)
• Topographical survey during filling (once a year) and after closing (once in 2 years)
• Control of the quantity of leachate.
To ensure ground water protection, the construction of monitoring wells was considered. Due to the
considerable depth of the ground water (150 – 200 m), monitoring wells at the ground water level will
become ineffective, impractical and expensive. The alternative is to install several shallow wells that
will enable gas detection in the unsaturated zone. This is a well-known practice in landfills with the same
monitoring problem elsewhere in the region. Since gases will be produced during decomposition of
waste, and their travel through (cracked) limestone layers is much faster and easier than water, gas
tests will be able to show failure on the sealing system more rapidly than water monitoring systems.
٣.٤.٢ Landfill Site Infrastructure and Access Roads
All roads inside the landfill area and the access road (from the last village to the site area) will be
constructed in such a way that they can be used for duplex traffic by trucks. This means that the width
of roads must be at least 6.5 m with drivable shoulders of about 1 m.
Inside the site area no traffic lights or safeguarded pedestrian crossings are planned. The infrastructure
for the landfill will be located north and south of the landfill and will be divided into two areas:
• Entrance and infrastructure area (north of the landfill site)
• Leachate pond (south-east of the landfill site)
The entrance and infrastructure area includes:

• a control building where all necessary data for delivering trucks will be registered by the landfill
staff and with the possibility of waste control (fixed installed ladder),
• a weighing bridge with a length of 18 m and a weight registration up to 40 Mg (including a data
link to the control building),
• a wheel cleaning unit for trucks that will leave the landfill area (wheel cleaning with water)
-1-
• a container area (concrete-paved area) for recycling activities and for safe-guarding of
undefined waste (inspection area) - area of about 300 m² to 400 m²
• a parking area for 10 cars, at least
• an operation building (size about 200 m²) including meeting (conference) room, toilets,
dressing rooms, laboratory, kitchen with a rest room, security room and offices (offices are
provided for staff of JSC-H&B as well as for administrative and technical staff of the landfill)
• a garage (size about 400 m²) which serves as the shelter for all mechanical equipment to be
used at the landfill
• a fuel tank (volume of about 5.000 l)
• an emergency generator
• a septic tank for sewage
• a basic weather station for recording wind speed and direction, humidity and rainfall
• a basic laboratory for analyzing samples of waste, groundwater and leachate (laboratory is
located inside the operation building)
The landfill is supplied with water and energy (including a transformer) from the local networks. A
telecommunication supply is also provided.
North-west of the proposed sites an enlargement of the site area is possible for material storage (waste
coverage) as well as for later recycling activities. If necessary, during landfill operation for the first 10
years, the enlargement area for the second 10 years operation can be used for (excavated) cover
material storage.
The total landfill area will be surrounded by a fence. The access to the site can be closed by a gate.
٣.٤.٣ Construction of Roads
The existing access roads to the landfill are presently unpaved and show insufficient width and tonnage
capacity. Also they are not suitable since they pass through a residential area. Therefore a new by-pass
road will be constructed and the existing access roads enlarged to a width of at least 5 m.
The following design criteria have been adopted for the access and internal roads:
• Maximum slope : about 11 % (adapted to the topographical situation)
• Cross slope : 2%
• Maximum speed 30 km/h
• Minimum radius: there is no limitation on the classification
Width of roads : access road and road at the entrance zone: asphalt paved, 6.5 m wide with shoulders
1-1.5 m and ditches ,where necessary ,, other internal roads: unpaved, 7 m wide, min.
The access road and all bituminous paved areas will have the following sub-structure:
• 5 cm asphalt layer
• 8 cm binder layer
• 20 cm crushed stone base
• 20 cm sub-base layer
٣.٥ Phasing of Landfill Operation

The landfill will be operated for a period of 20 years. To avoid a situation where a major part of the
landfill is prepared long before it is due to become operational (‘dead capital’), five construction phases
are foreseen:
• Phase 1 : construction of a sealed area under cells 1 and 2, for a filling period of 4-5 years,
• Phase 2 : construction of a sealed area under cells 3 and 4, , for a filling period of 4-5 years,
temporary closure of cell 1 and 2,
-2-
• Phase 3 : construction of a sealed area under cells 5 and 6, for a filling period of 5-6 years,
temporary closure of cell 3 and 4, final closure of cells 1 and 2 ,
• Phase 4 : construction of a sealed area under cells 7 and 8, , for a filling period of 6-7 years,
temporary closure of cell 1 and 2, final closure of cells 3 and 4 ,
• Phase 5: final cover of all remaining filled and open areas.
٣.٦ Landfill Decommissioning and Aftercare Phase
After closure of the landfill, the area will be restored as grazing fields, which was the land function before
the construction of the landfill. For about five years the landfill leachate will still be collected and
monitored. It is expected that afterwards, the landfill materials will have fully settled, and will not
generate additional leachate. Closure layers will limit water entering the body of waste to reduce
leachate generation.
It is further expected that about 90 percent of the geotechnical settlement will occur in the first five years
after completion of the landfill, although it may continue for 25 or more years at a slower rate. This will
not limit the grazing functions of the reclaimed land, but it will prevent the site being used for any
activities that require heavy machinery or construction.
A final closure plan shall be made before the completion of the landfill, including the following aspects:
• Periodic landfill inspections (for 2 years)

• Settlement, cover soil integrity and a need for grading;
• Buffers and planting of vegetation;
• Sediment and erosion control facilities (5 years);
• Fencing (2 years);
• Leachate and gas controls (5 years);
• Regular intervals of monitoring.
• Cover soil shall be at least 60 centimeters deep for grass establishment and 90 centimeters for
trees.
• The soil over the entire planting area shall be amended with lime, fertilizer and/or organic
matter according to soil tests before planting. These materials shall be incorporated into the top
15 centimeters of soil.
• Shrubs and other ground cover that will be planted shall be landfill-tolerant species, typical to
the landfill location, compatible to arid climate with very low irrigation requirement. It will be
considered that the irrigation will be limited to the planting phase only.
٣.٦.١ The Transfer Station
A transfer station will be constructed in the southern industrial zone of Hebron City, a distance of around
25 km to the al-Menya landfill, to serve municipalities in the southern region of Hebron, the southern
neighborhoods of Hebron City and the Southern industrial zone of Hebron City. The land is completely
owned by Hebron municipality with an area of about 1.8 ha. It is about 1,000 meters from the main road
(road 60) which connect all the major cities it the West Bank and runs close by the landfill. The area
needed for the transfer station is about 0.4 ha.
The site is surrounded by factories and workshops. In addition there are some residential buildings
starting at a distance of around 130 m way. The nearest factories, a few meters away from the site,
include lathing workshops, plastic manufacturers, carpentry workshops, aluminum workshops, and
leather manufacturers (tanneries). The surrounding land is privately owned and apart from the
aforementioned industrial, commercial and residential buildings there are small areas that are vacant
lots. The generators of waste that are expected to be served by the transfer station and the expected
quantities of waste are listed in Table 3.7.
-3-
Table 3.7: Solid Waste Generators and waste quantities expected in the Transfer Station
Waste Generator Waste quantity (2010) ton/day Waste quantity (2020) ton/day
Dura JSC 58 70
Yatta + JSC 52 63
Al-Dhariya 22 27
Samou 16 19
Taffoo 8 10
Idna 16 19
Tarqumiya 12 14
Hebron (southern part) 52 62
Total 236 284
Transport of Waste into the Facility: Around 30 RCVs/day carrying 236 tons of MSW (in 2010)
increasing to 35 RCVs/day in 2020. Trucks will approach the site along the main road of the industrial
zone. The road takes two-way traffic and is 8.0 meters wide - enough to cope with the expected traffic
frequency. Measures will be taken in order to facilitate integration of site traffic with the passing traffic,
including the demarcation of a special merging lane, traffic signs, speed controls, etc. Access to and
exit from the site will be via two separate lanes, each 3.6 m wide. In the area between the lanes, a
control room for the weigh bridge operator will be built. The facility area will be divided into two levels at
different elevations. The RCVs will drive up to the higher level and discharge their waste through a
hopper (a steel or concrete funnel) into containers at the lower level. The minimum difference between
levels will be 4.0 m in order to allow the use of hoppers with sufficient capacity and to enable the use of
high capacity trailers for reception and transportation of waste in emergency situations (such as, for
example, the breakdown of compactors).
The two levels will be connected by 6 m wide ramps, and the traffic will flow in one direction only. The
width of the lane will enable two-way traffic in case one of the lanes becomes blocked. The longitudinal
slope of the ramps will not exceed 12.5% and 1.0 m wide safety sidewalks will be constructed along
them.
The upper level surface will be 25 m wide in order to facilitate turning and backward maneuvering of the
collection truck. The lower surface will be wide enough (25-30 m) to enable safe maneuvering and
loading/unloading of containers. The upper and the lower levels will be separated by concrete retaining
walls.
-4-
Figure 3.8 Aerial View of Proposed Transfer Station Site
Unloading of Trucks: The RCVs will unload into a closed compaction Roll-On-Roll Off (RORO)
3
container through a hopper. The system will comprise two stationary compactors with at least 8 m
hoppers. The expected capacity of each compactor will be 30-35 ton/hour. This capacity is larger than
necessary to manage the average load so that: the operation can be completed fewer hours; peak hours
can be managed without vehicles having to queue for too long; there will be spare time for maintenance;
and, service can continue even in case of breakdown of one of the compactors.
Figure 3.9 View of Lower Level of Proposed Transfer Station Site
-5-
Filling and Compaction of Waste
3
The compactors will be operated in conjunction with 32 m compaction RORO containers. One
container will be connected to each compactor while 2-3 empty containers will be positioned over a
common rail for the two compactors. Underneath the rail, a hydraulic trolley will move and lift the filled
containers ready for transportation and then lift an empty container to be positioned and attached to the
compactor. A maximum of six full containers can be positioned on the rail containing a total of up to 100
tons of waste.
3
Beside the mechanical system, the transfer station will maintain two positions for 37-40 m open top
3
RORO containers or 60 m trailers. Those will constitute a backup system in case of mechanical failure
of a compactor, or a transfer vehicle; and in cases when very high peak loads exceed the capacity of the
mechanical system.
Figure 3.10 View of Upper Level of Proposed Transfer Station Site
-6-
Transport to Landfill
Two RORO trucks will be used to haul the waste over the 25 km between the transfer station and the
landfill. The trucks have a trailer allowing them to carry two containers, or around 30 – 20 tons per trip.
Between them they will need to execute 6 - 7 round trips per day. It is possible for each vehicle to
complete nine round trips daily (taking around one hour per trip) so there is spare capacity to allow for
increased future waste loads.
Maintenance of Trucks
A facility will be provided for maintenance of the transfer trucks, other repairs of equipment such as
containers, and other mechanical and electrical workshop activities. This will be a building with
dimensions 12X5 m and a concrete floor. A truck wheel-wash facility will be constructed on the exit lane
of the site. This will enable drivers of transfer trucks and RCVs to wash the vehicles’ wheels before
leaving the site. The facility will comprise a 4X10 m concrete slab, washing equipment, and drainage
system
Figure 3.11: Roll-on-Roll-Off Truck with Container
Control of Wastewater
Drainage at the transfer station will be designed so that uncontaminated run-off from the surrounds will
be separated from water that may have been contaminated by contact with the waste. Potentially
contaminated water will be collected at low points by grated catch pits and channels. It will then be
transferred to a storage vessel from where it will be emptied into septic tanker vehicle and taken to the
landfill, for disposal via the leachate pond (Disposal to public sewer was considered but rejected as
potentially too polluting, particularly since Hebron does not have a municipal wastewater treatment
plant). Wastewater from the social and office facilities will be connected directly to the public sewer.
Infrastructure
It is estimated that the transfer station will employ around 11 staff as follows:
-7-
1 Manager of TS
2 Compactor operator
1 Weigh bridge operator
2 Service employees
1 mechanical/electrical maintenance employee
2 Transfer trucks drivers
2 guards (by night)
2
There will be an office and social facilities occupying around 100 m which will provide accommodation
for workers to change clothing, wash, eat and rest. There will also be office facilities for site supervisors
and support staff, as well as for training and meetings.
Parking lots will be constructed for 6-10 private cars. In addition, 4 overnight parking lots for the transfer
trucks will be provided that can also be used as temporary parking for collection trucks during the day.
A special concrete slab shall be cast for storage of 4-6 containers.
The facility will be secured by fencing and gate control facilities, including a weighbridge. These will
enable monitoring of all incoming and outgoing collection vehicles and outgoing transfer vehicles. The
fence will be a solid 2.5 m high fence will have the additional functions of preventing the escape of wind-
blown waste from the site and minimizing the visual and noise impacts. Around the fence, a buffer zone
belt will be developed. This will comprise a ditch to divert rainwater run-off from the adjacent area away
from the site and vegetation (trees and bushes) to further screen the site and reduce visual intrusion.
Utilities, Accident Prevention and Safety Measures

Water will be obtained from the public supply for use in the offices and for operational uses such as
truck washing, wheel-washing, hosing down hard surfaces and irrigation of green areas and buffer
zones. A fire-fighting water system will be set up comprising a 6" loop with fire hydrants every 50 m or
less as specified by the Hebron Fire Department.
Preliminary estimation is that electricity requirement of the facility will be 150 Amp current at 220 V.
This will also be obtained from the local grid through a main switch board in the office building. In the
same location, a control board for the lightning system will installed. There will be a 50 kVA Stand-by
generator.
-8-
Figure 3.12: Site Layout of Proposed Transfer Station
-9-
٣.٧ Remediation and Closure of Existing Waste Dumps
٣.٧.١ Introduction
Part of SWBSWMP will be the remediation and closure of some of the existing dumping sites. Priority
will be given to the largest and most polluting, particularly the Yatta site, and those operating sites
nearest to the new proposed landfill site. Details of closure scenarios are included in the feasibility
study, the following outlines the principal element of remediation.
٣.٧.٢ Improvement and Continued Operation of the Yatta Site
During the implementation of the proposed project, it is expected that Yatta dump will still receive waste
until the new landfill becomes operational (a period of about 5 years after project initiation). This requires
that the Yatta operational conditions be improved, even though, for the past two years waste burning
has been minimized and the waste is covered daily.
Site conditions will be improved through the following steps:
• Making a list with the waste-pickers entering the site and limiting the waste-picking process to 10
minutes for each truck at the entrance of the filling area. Children will not be allowed.
• Starting to plan for waste filling for next 5 years by identifying 3-5 micro-sites for waste filling based
on the available and suitable spaces in the site.
• Starting to cover with thick soil the areas that have no further capacity to accept waste.
• Monitoring the places with high gas release and trying to extend pipes that collect the gas from
confined spaces to allow gas escape.
• Spraying the site in summer time using insecticide.
• Collecting any plastic bags in the surrounding in order to protect animals from swallowing such
material
• Trying to open the minds and eyes of those interested in waste recycling to organize themselves in
a better way and conducting meetings with them to see what is their best option to be involved in
the proposed new project.
• Selecting an area at the down slope of the filling area that can be used for leachate accumulation.
This area can be excavated to form a pond then can be lined with a 0.5 m compacted clay layer
and plastic lining can be applied. The pond will be fitted with submersible circulating pumps which
will automatically spray the leachate back over the waste bulk to allow further evaporation of the
wastewater and accelerate degradation of the waste.
٣.٧.٣ Remediation and Closure of Dump Sites
The needs at the Yatta site give a good example of what needs to be done to close the existing dump
sites safely and prevent further environmental damage. The site is the largest and encompasses the
upstream portion of the catchment of two important wadis. The current waste-containing area exceeds
14 ha. The site needs re-opening and cleaning of the wadis with sediment removal and transfer to the
top of the waste bulk. A diversion channel for runoff water is also required. Most important is the
construction of retaining walls around the perimeter. The site requires covering with a liner and
placement of a layer of 0.5-1 m of soft earth filling - dividing the whole surface area into smaller
catchments (4 at least) that contain gravitational outlets (such as ditches constructed by shaping the soil
filling under or over the liner).
The liner should be fitted underneath the base of the stone retaining wall to be sure that the wadi flow
does not come into contact with the waste or damage the construction work after some years of
3
operation. After appropriate closure, the surface of the site will allow the collection of about 20,000 m
of water. This could be stored in earthen pools by farmers who own the neighboring land, for use in
- 10 -
irrigation in summer time. This will speed the conversion of the area into agricultural land. Planting the
site with trees should not be allowed because this may allow liner damage by deep roots.
Detailed site remediation plans are available as part of the Feasibility Study documentation.
- 11 -
٤ IDENTIFICATION OF KEY ISSUES (SCOPING)
٤.١ Background
It is good practice to focus the ESIA studies on the particular environmental and social issues which are
most likely to give rise to the most significant impacts or are of great concern to the decision makers and
stakeholders. This allows the available resources to be focused where they are most needed and the
ESIA report to focus on issues relevant to decision making. It also helps ensure that the environmental
information used for decision making provides a complete picture of the important effects of the project,
including issues of particular concern to affected groups and individuals. The result is that the
environmental information provides a balanced view and is not burdened with irrelevant information. The
study can, therefore, focus resources on the important issues for decision-making and avoid wasted
effort on issues of little relevance.
The identification of the new landfill site was the result of an extensive feasibility study and site selection
process. During this process there was a great deal of consultation on the suitability of the 14 sites
investigated, the design of the landfill and the location and design of the transfer station. Moreover, the
context of the project is one in which the unprotected dumping sites scattered over the southern region
of the West Bank have been giving rise to severe environmental and social concerns. These have
included smog and smoke, surface and groundwater contamination plus the social and health problems
associated with unregulated waste picking, which affects the poorest people in the site neighborhood.
The need to address these issues was a large influence in promoting the proposed project. Some of the
key environmental and social issues were therefore at the forefront of the planning and design of the
project.
٤.٢ Identification of Impact Areas
٤.٢.١ Causes of Impacts
Development activities may give rise to environmental and social impacts when physical changes
caused by construction, operation or decommissioning of facilities interact with sensitive aspects of the
receiving, environment, where the receiving environment comprises human beings and human systems
plus biological organisms and biological systems. The currently proposed project includes the
construction of a sanitary landfill site and waste transfer station(s), waste hauling facilities and
improvements to the current SWM system to alleviate short term problems. The potential for impacts
arises primarily from the following physical changes.
• Land taken for siting facilities and infrastructure and for improvement of roads
• Movement of heavy vehicles
• Emissions from the waste (leachate, odor, litter, smoke)
• Control of the sites (restriction of access)
• Activity at the sanitary landfill site
• Remediation of the waste dumps
٤.٢.٢ The Receiving Environment
The changes in the physical environment result in environmental and social impacts depending on the
existing characteristics of the areas affected in terms of the land use, socio-economic status, ecology,
hydrology and hydrogeology etc. The site selection process revealed that the al-Menya site has few
environmental or social drawbacks. The site is mostly bounded by hilly areas and there are few
inhabitants close by. The site topsoil is composed of approximately 40% clay underlain by limestone.
Ideally the site would have a natural impermeable barrier to the movement of leachate; however, none
of the investigated sites in the target area had such a geological barrier (usually consisting of clayey
materials). The groundwater depth at the site is in excess of 200 m.
- 12 -
The land for the landfill site and access roads is mostly barren vacant land used for occasional grazing.
It will be purchased from private vendors. Hebron municipality already owns the land needed for the
proposed transfer station in Wadi Samina (Southern Hebron). This is a vacant lot in an industrial zone.
Other affected sites include the waste dumps that are to be closed and rehabilitated. Waste pickers
operate at some of these, particularly at the Yatta dump site. There are about 40 households that
depend on the income generated from waste picking at the Yatta site. The waste-pickers include
children and are exposed to health and safety risks including respiratory and skin related diseases.
٤.٣ Impacts to be addressed in the study
٤.٣.١ Introduction
Considering the initial overview of the project and the receiving environment outlined above, together
with the opinions and expectations of the stakeholders, the key issues to be addressed by the ESIA
study were identified. Following from this, the objectives and methods used to conduct the baseline
studies and the analysis of impacts would be determined and priorities for mitigation set. Other
potential impacts were also studied, however, and where significant effects were identified, these were
addressed in mitigation proposals and the Environmental and Social Management Plan (ESMP).
٤.٣.٢ Key Impact Areas
This section provides an overview of the key environmental and social impacts and a description of the
analysis of these impacts that was undertaken in this study.
Land use: the increased collection of waste throughout the region will lead to a reduction in land spoiled
by illicit waste dumping and littering. On balance, it is considered that the potential impacts will be
mostly positive. Disposing of waste is however potentially polluting in a variety of ways. This study
examines the effects of the project on land uses and values to ensure that siting has been undertaken
sensitively and pragmatically to protect land owners, land users and neighbors as well as any natural or
cultural value.
Impacts related to potential ground and surface water contamination: The project is within an arid
area with limited surface and groundwater resources. Decomposing waste within the landfill and during
collection and transfer is potentially very polluting if it comes into contact with water resources.
Moreover, the entire area around the project lacks natural barriers to the migration of water into aquifers.
This study pays a great deal of attention to the movement of water above and below the surface and
how the design of the facility addresses these. Attention has also been paid to the predicted quantities
and management of waste water, the protection of water resources, surface drainage and the ultimate
fate of water passing through and around the project sites.
Socio-economic and cultural impacts: Fences will enclose the al-Menya landfill and the transfer
station(s) for safety purposes. Access to the facilities will be restricted to licensed operators. As a result
a large number of individuals who enter the old landfill site in Yatta freely, and collect valuable wastes
for resale, will have their livelihoods affected. The waste-pickers may choose to migrate close to the site
of the proposed new landfill, and residents in those areas worry that their presence, perhaps in informal
housing, may cause social tension and lower property values. Other affected parties are those who
used the proposed new site for grazing. The study has therefore investigated the social issues
surrounding replacement livelihoods, compensation and resettlement for affected people as a key issue
in the ESIA.
Traffic Impacts: The new SWM system entails many more movements of large vehicles, sometimes on
small roads. The absolute volume of additional traffic is not large, but there is potential for traffic
- 13 -
congestion, excessive wear and tear on local roads and safety threats to other road users, especially
children. The routes available to the waste transfer vehicles and the RCVs are thoroughly investigated
in the ESIA to ensure that the chosen routes and the design of the landfill and transfer station accesses
are adequate to minimize adverse effects.
General Environmental Quality: A major purpose of the project proposals will be to improve
environmental quality. There will be effects in terms of odor and air quality impacts (associated with
waste decomposition and waste burning as well as dust from construction and vehicle movements),
noise (traffic and site operations), visual and landscape impacts (the visual impression created during
operations, the appearance after closure, and the potential presence of windblown detritus/litter). There
is also a potential impact from vermin such as flying insects, scavenging birds, rats, etc. if the facilities
are not operated in accordance with good practice. The stakeholders place great importance on the
maintenance of good environmental quality at the new site, and the management procedures to control
these are therefore a key focus of the ESIA.
Potential impact of landfill gas. Landfill gas is a product of the degradation of waste materials under
anaerobic conditions (i. e. in the absence of oxygen). With its high content of methane and toxic and
inflammable gases, the generation of landfill gas poses significant risks to human, animal and plant
health and life. The risk is greatest where gas is allowed to build-up in confined spaces, such as within
buildings or in collapsed void spaces within the deposited waste. Accordingly, the study has investigated
how the design will incorporate measures to minimize these risks, and assessed the residual impact.
٤.٣.٣ Other Impacts
Other potential impacts of the proposed project are not expected to cause significant impacts either
because of the nature of the site or due to the relative ease with which they can be avoided or mitigated.
Such issues have not be treated as key impacts unless they were identified as such by stakeholders.
Nevertheless these have been subject to scrutiny during the ESIA, the impacts assessed against
significance criteria and the necessary design or operational measures included in the ESMP. They
include the following.
Seismic Impacts: The impacts from potential seismic activity cannot be completely mitigated in landfill
development. Nevertheless, the risk of breach in the liner, is not one which is of catastrophic
consequences. Moreover, all practicable engineering and operational mitigation measures have been
incorporated into the landfill design to minimize any potential impact from seismic activity and any
associated fault displacement.
Impacts related to off-site Sourcing of Landfill Earthwork Materials: If site engineering works make
a large demand on the importation of materials sourced from off-site, there could be environmental
damage at such sites. As far as practicable, materials won from the al-Menya site will be stored and
used in landfill construction and as cover material. Use of imported material will be subject to permitting
to ensure that environmental impacts at the borrow sites are kept to a minimum.
Impacts related to Contamination of Water Resources by Fuel Spillage: Potential contamination

exists for fuel/lubricant spillage in the waste reception area from activities associated with vehicle
refueling, repair and maintenance. These are readily controlled by good operational practices.
Potential Health Impacts of MSW Disposal: The operational practices advocated for site management
and operation are designed, inter alia, to minimize any potential health risks from the disposal of MSW.
Impacts related to emission of greenhouse gases. Emission of green house gases under the
proposed project is expected to be considerable less than in comparison with the current solid waste
disposal and dumping practices, due to the proposed landfill gas collection system and the flaring of the
gas
- 14 -
Impacts related to biodiversity and ecological habitats. The proposed landfill site is largely devoid of
natural vegetation, with bedrock outcrops dominating the valley flanks and agriculture on the valley floor.
The transfer station site is already paved and set inside a built-up industrial area. There are no
important ecosystems recorded within or in the immediate vicinity of the sites. Accordingly the
development is likely to have little impact on biodiversity or ecological habitats.
Impacts related to Littering and Cleanliness During Waste Transit. It is envisaged that waste
delivered to the project site will be enclosed either in a RCV or haulage container or will be covered by
tarpaulin, sheet or netting (in the case of open bulk-loaded containers). This practice will ensure that
waste materials do not spill onto public roads.
Impacts on the Cultural Heritage. There are no known places of archaeological, religious or cultural
significance at any of the proposed sites, nor have any artifacts been found or previous land uses been
identified that might suggest that there will be any impacts on cultural sites or property.
- 15 -
٥ PUBLIC CONSULTATION
٥.١ Background
The Palestinian Environmental Assessment Policy prescribes that project proponents consult
stakeholders during the scoping and implementation of ESIA. The scoping and site selection of project
ESIA was conducted in 2008. For the scoping phase the Consultant conducted semi-structured
interviews with representatives of the Joint Service Councils of Hebron Governorate and Bethlehem
City, and with an NGO in Bethlehem city, which is engaged in applied research, training and public
awareness campaigns in natural resources management. Through the scoping study the stakeholders in
a regional solid waste management project were identified, together with their concerns.
The scoping study was used to develop a stakeholder consultation plan for the ESIA. Two types of
public participation were planned. Firstly, the consultation of communities and interest groups that are
directly affected by the proposed project. Secondly, public hearings for stakeholders not directly affected
by but interested in the proposed project. The distinction between public consultation and public hearing
is not only based on the targeted audience, it is also based on objectives and the applied methodology.
For the consultations the project proponent takes an active role in visiting the target audience to explore
their social and environmental concerns about the proposed project, and explores what potential
mitigating measures they request for supporting the proposed project. For public hearing the target
audience is invited to participate in the event and given the opportunity to express their concerns about
environmental and social and financial impacts of the proposed project, and propose adjustment or
alternatives to the proposed plans.
٥.٢ Overview and Methodology
٥.٢.١ Stakeholder Consultation Plan
The Stakeholder Consultation Plan makes a division between three phases: scoping, stakeholder
consultation and public hearings. During the scoping phase the issues and concerns of stakeholders
were explored to prepare the SWBSWMP consultation plan. During the stakeholder consultation phase
stakeholders that will be affected by the proposed project were visited and their concerns and conditions
for support explored. During the public hearings the interested parties in solid waste management were
informed about the project and given the opportunity to explain their concerns and propose
modifications to the proposed plan.
The scoping for the proposed project showed that mainly local government authorities and directly
affected communities and interest groups are the main stakeholders. Solid waste management is a
basic public service and the mandate of local government authorities. Municipalities and local councils
are responsible for the formal SWM systems, and they have organized in Joint Service Councils for
activities that have scale advantages. The local councils of communities that are located near the
existing and proposed locations of the regional solid waste management systems are the main
stakeholders for the proposed project.
The following table shows how stakeholders concerns have been addressed through the design and the
ESMP preparation.
Table 5.1: Planning of the SWBSWMP public consultation
ESIA phases Consulted Stakeholders Objectives of consultation
Scoping • Joint Service Council Hebron • Exploration of issues and concerns
- 16 -
Governorate in SWBSWM
• Joint Service Council Bethlehem • Identification of stakeholders and
City their interests
• Applied Research Institute • Assessment of potential risks to
Jerusalem proposed project components
Stakeholder • Communities near the landfill • Inform the stakeholders about the
consultation and transfer stations affected by proposed SWM project
proposed project components • Explore stakeholders’ concerns and
• Stakeholders involved in formal requests about the proposed project
and informal SWM systems • Assess stakeholders’ needs for
affected by proposed project mitigating measures
components • Explore options for linking mitigation
• Public and voluntary sector measures with existing programs of
organizations with relevant public and voluntary sector
expertise on mitigation measures organizations
Public • Public, private and voluntary • Inform interested parties about the
participation sector organizations in southern proposed project
West Bank interested in SWM • Create opportunity for interested
policies, strategies and projects parties to propose adjustments or
alternatives for the proposed project
Interest groups, currently involved in the formal and informal SWM, have been identified as another
main stakeholder. The refuse workers in the formal SWM systems are not organized in an interest
organization and therefore need to be consulted through the SWM Departments of the Local Authorities.
Few private sector organizations are involved in the formal solid waste systems (management contract
and disposal of hazardous waste). However, private persons play an important role in informal solid
waste management systems as pickers and traders of recyclable waste. These private sector groups
operate on an individual basis, are organized along trading and family clan structures. They have to be
contacted on an individual basis because they have not yet formed any kind of professional association.
Civil society organizations, like the Union of Palestinian Workers and Union of Palestinian Farmers are
still relatively young organizations in the southern West Bank, and currently believe they have more
urgent concerns than SWM projects. Community based organizations are, however, important actors in
education and social activities and increasingly get interested in environmental education. Some non-
governmental organizations have developed expertise in applied research and public awareness
campaigns on environment and natural resources management. These organizations have developed a
keen interest in SWM issues.
The World Bank Supervision Mission conducted meetings with national and regional SWBSWMP
stakeholders that created an opportunity for the Consultant team to explore the social and
environmental concern. On 16 and 17 July 2008 the MDLF organized for the World Bank Supervision
mission meetings with national stakeholders and the regional Project Proponent. These meetings
provided an excellent opportunity for the Consultant team responsible for the stakeholder consultations,
to inform the public sector stakeholders about the proposed plan, to hear their comments and concerns,
and to arrange the public consultations at local and regional level.
Semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions have been used as methodology for the
stakeholder consultations. The SWBSWMP consultation plan contained consultations with the leaders of
communities and interest groups that are directly affected by the proposed project. The consultations
with leaders of communities near the proposed and existing locations of the waste disposal sites and
informal leaders of refuse workers and waste pickers and waste traders were implemented as planned.
Some modifications were made to the plan because some consultations created the need for additional
information that had to be addressed. The Consultants prepared checklists for these dialogues, which
- 17 -
were conducted as semi-structured interviews when there were one or two respondents and as focus
group discussion when there were more.
A scoping and a consultation meeting were conducted for the leaders of the al-Menya and Wadi Samina
communities, where respectively the regional landfill site and the transfer station are proposed. These
communities needed extra attention since they are directly affected and their support is essential for a
successful SWBSWMP.
The Consultation Team had to adjust the consultation plan after the meetings with the waste-pickers
and the leaders of two communities near the existing Yatta landfill. Informal leaders of waste-pickers
from Yatta city and formal leaders of communities near the Yatta landfill site wanted to discuss negative
environmental and social impacts of the site. The site was managed very poorly until 2006 and some of
the complaints needed to be crosschecked with responsible government authorities and with field data.
Therefore the Consultant Team decided to interview a medical expert in Yatta district and a social expert
of the Municipal Social Department. In addition, the Consultant decided to conduct a census of all
waste-pickers working on an average summer day at the landfill site, and to prepare profiles of four
waste-pickers households from Yatta city and four households from El Deirat village. The additional data
was required to deal with conflicting information about number of waste-pickers, health conditions and
the socio-economic backgrounds of the households of waste-picker families that have children and
adults picking waste at the landfill site.
The MDLF and the Joint Service Councils of Bethlehem and Hebron took responsibility for conducting
rd th
the public hearings in Hebron Governorate (3 of August 2008) and in Bethlehem Governorate (4 of
August 2008). The Consultant prepared an agenda proposal and the meetings were advertised in
regional newspapers. Presentations about the proposed plan and environmental and social mitigation
measures were presented . The Joint Service Council representatives chaired the meetings and the
Consultants recorded the questions and comments.
Two additional meetings were conducted specifically to address concerns around the transfer station
nd rd
site. These took place on 2 and 3 March 2009. Present at both were the social specialist and the
environmental engineer from the JSC-H&B and representatives of the businesses and residents
adjacent to the site comprising members of 8 families
٥.٢.٢ Disclosure
All documents produced as part of the ESIA will be fully disclosed to the public. The ESIA, Executive
Summary ESIA, and the Abbreviated Resettlement Action Plans (in English and Arabic), have been
disclosed in draft form (December 2008) and as a draft final version (February 2009) at the World Bank
InfoShop, and on the websites of the Hebron and Bethlehem Municipalities for public information and
consultation. The final versions will be made available through the same outlets.
٥.٣ Outcome of Stakeholder Consultations
٥.٣.١ Introduction
In this section summaries are presented of the main issues and concerns discussed during the
consultation meetings. Minutes of all meetings were kept and are available for inspection.
٥.٣.٢ Concerns of the stakeholders at national level
The MoLG expressed concerns about the protection of the ground water resources. The water
resources are scarce in the proposed area and the soil structure and profile of the preferred site seem to
be unsuitable for a regional landfill site.
- 18 -
The MoPIC requested that the direct and indirect impacts at the preferred sites for infrastructure
development be assessed. The transportation strategies require an assessment of transport
intensification for the various routes leading to and from proposed sites. Mitigation measures are
expected for negative impacts for the infrastructure and communities living along the main waste
transportation routes through investments in the main infrastructure and through transport restrictions on
minor routes.
EQA raised a concern about the weighting factor used in the site selection report. A high weight was
given to the economic and financial criteria while they believed that a higher weight should have been
given to environmental criteria. In addition, they requested clearer information about the types of waste
that will be accepted and the amount of waste that can be separated for reuse. Their concern is that
hazardous waste should not be disposed of in a landfill designed for domestic wastes. Although
SWBSWMP is basically a project for municipal waste, it requires a strategy for dealing with hazardous
waste. Finally EQA considers public awareness raising and waste separation piloting a component of
the project proposal and therefore expected that planning for this component would be included in the
feasibility report.
٥.٣.٣ Concerns of the stakeholders at regional level
Public sector
The leaders of local government authorities are concerned about the tariff setting and fee collection for
the improved SWM system. This concern is most prominent among the municipalities in southern
Hebron, which are closest to the old and will be farthest from the new landfill site. A system of cross-
subsidies was advocated for the tariff setting policy. Regional stakeholders also proposed that piloting of
at-source separation would form a component of SWBSWMP. They consider recycling to be their
mandate and think that they can generate additional income by investing and managing those activities.
The public sector representatives do not yet consider public awareness on sustainable development and
SWM as a responsibility of the public sector.
Private sector
The traders of recyclable solid waste have an individual view on changes in the regional SWM system.
Although the informal system has made progress in at-source separation, the formal and informal
systems need to collaborate in future to improve the performance. Individual traders are interested to
manage the waste separation at the transfer stations and the regional landfill site, and work with their
equipment (tractor with hoe and containers) at the new locations. Individual traders are also interested
to become involved in the pilot project for at-source separation and to manage the collection of the
separated recyclable materials. The traders are willing to invest in these initiatives but they consider that
the public sector should take the leading role.
Voluntary sector
The voluntary sector representatives thought that the improved infrastructure would require an improved
management system. They recommended the prevention of conflicts of interest that might arise due to
the public sector being provider of the service and supervisor of the public interest in these services.
They recommended that the public sector look opportunities to use the expertise of the private and
voluntary sectors through partnerships and that they should involve representatives of the private and
voluntary sectors in the governance structure or advisory committees. The voluntary sector considers it
the task of the public sector to raise public awareness on sustainable development and SWM. They
therefore recommended that public participation in the SWBSWM Project should be a serious
consultation rather than a public information process. With regard to waste pickers, they proposed that
those poor households that lose income should be admitted to the social safety net program or involved
in income generation schemes.
- 19 -
٥.٣.٤ Concerns of the stakeholders at local level
Communities near proposed landfill site and transfer station

The leaders of communities living near to the proposed landfill site and the proposed transfer station
gave their conditional support to the project components. They want their communities to benefit from
improved infrastructure and employment opportunities. Their conditions concern the management of the
facilities in accordance with international environmental and social standards so that they will be
protected from negative impacts in the short, medium and long term. They therefore requested
management plans that meet international standards and transparent and fair complaint management
procedures. The community leaders also expressed a warning: if the SWM facilities are not properly
managed and cause damage to the neighboring communities, these might react by blocking the
operations.
Refuse workers of the local authorities

The project proposals do not create major changes for the staff of the municipal SWM services. The
major change will be that less time will be required for transportation and therefore more time is
available for waste collection. However, the SWM services staff recommended an improvement of at
source separation of all waste, and in particular of hazardous, slaughter, glass and construction waste.
They recommend that producers of medical, slaughter and construction waste deliver it themselves at
the regional landfill site, so that the refuse workers are better protected from accidents and health risks.
They predicted that the landfill site supervisors will face problems in collaborating with waste-pickers,
who arrange waste separation informally at the site.
Waste-pickers at the sites that will be closed

The waste-pickers feel that the changes in the SWM system will put their present source of income at
risk. They would like to be employed by private companies that invest in waste separation. They are
currently organized along kinship and trader networks and have more confidence in organizing
themselves in family rather than cooperative enterprises. The waste-pickers recommended a smaller
transfer station located and managed by the municipalities of southern Hebron and a larger transfer
station located in the north Hebron city that processes the waste of Hebron city and the municipalities of
western Hebron. They expect that Yatta municipality will care better for their interests than Hebron
Municipality. They expect the public sector to invest in equipment (refuse container and sorting belt) for
safe manual waste separation. While traders would like to bring their private equipment to the transfer
station, the waste-pickers asked for on-site sorting and storage facilities that they can rent. The
voluntary sector organizations and the informal waste-picker leaders argue that the management
concept for waste sorting must be clear and the arrangements under which waste-pickers work must be
fair. In their opinion the public sector should focus on employment creation for experienced waste
separators rather than struggling for a share of the waste separation revenues. A sharing arrangement
of 50-50, as is used by the management of other landfill sites, was considered unfair to self-employed
waste pickers
Communities near the sites that will be closed

The leaders of the communities near the Yatta landfill site are happy that the landfill site will be closed
since the benefits are smaller than the costs for the communities. Until two years ago the site was
managed poorly and that caused a lot of harm for the surrounding communities in terms of human and
animal health. The community leaders expect that the landfill site will be closed and rehabilitated in
accordance with international standards. They also suggested that an independent national NGO would
be involved in the monitoring of land and water resources near the closed land because they feared a
conflict of interests if a public sector organization was made responsible for the monitoring.
٥.٣.٥ Concerns of the stakeholders around the Transfer Station Site
At a first meeting the main concerns of the people could be summarized as follows:
• The bad odor which might be as a result of the transfer station
- 20 -
• The spreading of waste by wind from the transfer station
• The leachate problem
• Noise and traffic problems
The consultees were given an opportunity to consider the responses of the specialists and to discuss
with other stakeholders who had not been able to attend. In a subsequent meeting, on the next day,
they expressed the following additional opinions.
• It should be encouraged that persons who have shops for light industry or plastic recycling
activities should set up just beside the Transfer Station so that the economy of the area may
progress.
• All the attendees thought that the overall cleanness of the area would increase since an
important activity in solid waste management would be present.
• The people thought that this will might help in solving the problem of tannery factories which
badly affect the area.
• They also thought that it will create some new job opportunities for local guards or operators or
drivers.
- 21 -
٦ ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL BASELINE DATA
٦.١ Introduction
٦.١.١ Data and Information Presented
This Section presents data on baseline environmental and social conditions with respect to the selected
project sites. The baseline data describe the existing situation in the project area that could be
influenced by the establishment of sanitary landfill, the transfer station, and the associated roads,
accesses and infrastructure.
The data are presented and discussed under the following headings.
• General Environmental Conditions in the Study Area

• Geology and Soils
• Hydrogeology and Hydrology
• Ecology
• Socio-Cultural Factors
٦.١.٢ Sources of Information
Information on baseline environmental conditions has been derived from a variety of sources including:
• Environmental Analysis of the Zaharat Finjan landfill site [. ‫ ]! ا ر ر ا‬and [ !
. ‫] ا ر ر ا‬
• Reports on the Hebron/Yatta landfill site, [. ‫ ]! ا ر ر ا‬and [ ‫! ا ر‬
. ‫] ر ا‬
• SWBSWMP Final Site Selection Report, [. ‫]! ا ر ر ا‬
• SWBSWMP; Feasibility & ESIA Draft Baseline Data Inventory Report [ ‫! ا ر ر‬
. ‫]ا‬
• SWBSWMP Feasibility Report [. ‫]! ا ر ر ا‬
• SWBSWMP; Feasibility & ESIA Basic Design for Transfer Stations and Sanitary Landfill, [ !
. ‫]ا ر ر ا‬
• Primary field surveys and site investigations;
• Secondary published data, maps and reports; and
• Consultations and interviews with relevant agencies and stakeholders.
٦.٢ General Environmental Conditions in the Study Area
٦.٢.١ General Characteristics
The Landfill Site

The proposed landfill is located on approximately 25 ha of undeveloped land which is located nearly 2-3
km south – south east of al-Menya Village in Bethlehem Governorate (between 114300 north and
113600 south and 171950 west and 172600 east referenced to Palestinian grid system). Within the site,
the planned landfill area will be 20.5 ha with approximate dimensions of 750 m by 370 m. The site is
bordered by a gravel ranch road on the north and undeveloped lands from west, east and south.
The site can be accessed from Hebron along road # 60, onto road 3157 and then via regional roads to
the site. The distance from Hebron by this route is around 29 km. Another possible route starts from the
center of Hebron then to Halhoul then through Siir Junction to al-Menya town before reaching the site
itself. This route length is around 23 km. The route from Bethlehem is easier, with a distance of less
than 20 km. See Figure 6.1 below.
- 22 -
o
The area is characterized in being slightly hilly with an average topographic slope ranges between 3 –
o
7 from west to east. No apparent saddles, prominent hills, deep wadis or steep cliffs of any sort were
observed in the vicinity. The site itself is mostly flat and slopes gradually from north to south east,
changing in surface elevation from approximately 690 m to 730 m above mean sea level (see Figure
6.2). It is not visible from the north and western areas because it is bounded by hills.
Figure 6.1 Location map and the different routes to the proposed landfill
The Transfer Station

The Transfer Station will be located in the southern industrial district of Hebron, around 25 km
landfill site. The facility will use around 0.4 ha of a 1.8 ha plot of land that is owned by Hebron
municipality. Thus there is plenty of room for expansion if need be. Access to the site is from
along a 1.3 km local road (see
Figure 3.8 Aerial View of Proposed Transfer Station Site
- 23 -
Figure 3.8). The area is mountainous and part of the plot, to the west, consists of steeply sloping
hillside, but the proposed facility area has been reclaimed by Hebron municipality. It was leveled and
filled then paved and divided into two levels about five meters apart in height.
- 24 -
Figure 6.2 The Main Landfill Area
٦.٢.٢ Climate
Between December and March the average daily temperature in the region is 13.4°C with a minimum
temperature of 7.8°C and a maximum of 19°C. The average daily temperature from June to August is
33.6°C with an average minimum of 19.3°C.
Rainfall in the West Bank is very variable with average ranges from 100-700mm. Because of the
variability the precise rainfall at the proposed landfill site is not known since the nearest meteorological
station is at Hebron (see Figure 8). However, it is known that rainfall decreases from west to east and
from north to south and that on the eastern slopes, nearest the proposed site, the average is 100-300.
Consultations with local inhabitants suggest that rainfall in the vicinity of the site is at the low end of this
range. Further evidence was obtained from visual inspection of the site which revealed areas of small
gravel and sandy substrate but no evidence of channeling which would be caused if heavy rain and
flash flooding were to occur. Nevertheless, an average rainfall of 300 mm per year has been assumed
(the high end of the local range) to provide a large safety margin in calculations (of drainage
requirements, leachate collection and treatment) that require rainfall data.
The average evaporation rate in the south of the proposed landfill site is 55.1 mm/month between
December and February. Between June and August evaporation rates rise to an average of 277.3
mm/month. Annual evaporation rates in this part of the West Bank are up to 1000 mm per year, and
exceed that of rainfall. This means that only during periods of high rainfall and lower evaporation, as
may occur during some winter months is there a potential for water to infiltrate the soil layers.
The estimated average potential water deficit at the site of the landfill is approximately 350 mm to 400
mm per year. There have been no recorded flood events in the landfill site area during the last 100
years.
- 25 -
The climate around the proposed site of the transfer station is better known this can be assumed to be
the same as for Hebron city. Here the rainy season is from December and April with an average daily
temperature of around 14ºC. The dry season extends from May to November with an average daily
temperature of 28ºC reaching a maximum of 35ºC in July and August. Annual rainfall is around 400 mm.
The prevailing wind over the Hebron District comes from the south-west and north-west, being more
northerly and stronger in the summer months. Mean wind speeds are lowest in October (5.4 km/hr and
7.7 km/hr, respectively) and strongest in July (9.7 km/hr and 12.4 km/hr, respectively). The ‘Khamaseen’
winds from the Arabian Desert Area may occur during the period from April to June and these
characteristically cause a rise in temperature and a decrease in humidity. Humidity ranges from
approximately 39 % during the ‘Khamaseen’ period to an average of around 84 % in winter.
Figure 6.3: Climatic data (rainfall and cloudiness)

Source: Atlas of Palestine, 2001
- 26 -
- 27 -
Climate
Mean Annual Temperature and Solar Radiation
Main City Main City

W est Bank and Gaza West Bank and Gaza
Beisan Beisan
Boundary Boundary
Mean Annual Teprerature Jenin Solar Radiation Incident on Jenin
o Horizontal Surface Annual
C
Mean.
24 - 25
Kg-calories/cm2 per year
23 - 24 Tulkarm Tulkarm
> 201
22 - 23
195 - 201
21 - 22
Nablus 189 - 195 Nablus
20 - 21 Qalqiliya Qalqiliya
182 - 189
19 - 20
< 182
18 - 19 Jordan River Jordan River
17 - 18 Tel Aviv 10 0 10 km Tel Aviv
Yafa Yafa
16 - 17
15 - 16
10 0 10 km
Al Lid a Al Lid
Ar Ramlah
Se Ar Ramlah
a
Se Ramallah Ramallah
Ariha Ariha
n
(Jericho) (Jericho)
ea
n Al Quds Al Quds
ea (Jerusalem) an (Jerusalem)
an Bethlehem rr Bethlehem
Sea Site 12 Sea
rr
Site 12 e
it
it
e ISRAEL d ISRAEL
e
d Jabalya Dead M Jabalya Dead
e Al Khalil Al Khalil
Gaza Gaza
M (Hebron) (Hebron)
Deir al Balah Deir al Balah
Khan Yunis Khan Yunis
Rafah Rafah
Mean Avarage Annual Humidity and Meteorological Stations
Main City
Location of Meteorological Stations,
W est Bank and Gaza Agricultural Weather Stations and
Beisan Beisan
Boundary Rain-gauges in the West Bank.
Mean Avarage Annual Jenin Meteorological Station Jenin
Humidity
% Agricultural Weather Station
70 - 75 Rainfall Gauge
65 - 70 Tulkarm Main City Tulkarm
60 - 65 West Bank and
55 - 60 Gaza Boundary
Qalqiliya Nablus Qalqiliya Nablus
50 - 55 10 0 10 km
45 - 50
Jordan River Jordan River
40 - 45 Tel Aviv Tel Aviv
10 0 10 km Yafa
a Yafa
Se
Al Lid an Al Lid
Ar Ramlah Ar Ramlah
ne
Ramallah Ramallah
Ariha Ariha
(Jericho) ra (Jericho)
Al Quds er Al Quds
(Jerusalem) it (Jerusalem)
Bethlehem d Bethlehem
Sea e Sea
Site 12 M
ISRAEL ISRAEL Site 12
Jabalya Dead Jabalya

Al Khalil Al Khalil Dead
Gaza Gaza
(Hebron) (Hebron)
Deir al Balah Deir al Balah
Khan Yunis Khan Yunis
Rafah Rafah
٦.٢.٣ Ambient Environmental Conditions in the Study Area
Air Quality
There are no available monitoring data on air quality but an adequate picture of the situation at affected
sites can be obtained from considering surrounding land uses and potential sources of air pollution.
- 28 -
The proposed landfill site is far from any significant sources of air pollution. The nearest major road
(Highway # 6) is at least 3 km away and there is no nearby industry. The ‘Khamaseen’ winds may bring
dust occasionally but otherwise the air quality is expected to be constantly good.
The proposed transfer station site is within an industrial zone. The adjacent industries (tanneries,
plastics, carpentry) have some potential for pollution, but none was observed on site visits. A
moderately trafficked local road passes beside the site. Air quality is expected to be generally good,
characteristic of a light industrial zone.
At the main existing site, Yatta dump site, there have often been plumes of dense smoke from burning
waste. These can be seen by whole communities and have been the subject of many complaints.
Some fires are caused deliberately by waste pickers as a form of informal recycling, but fires can
generate spontaneously in the conditions found in improperly managed waste dumps. Odors may also
be a problem. It is to be expected therefore that air quality at Yatta and at other dump sites is often
poor.
Noise
Again because of its rural nature, the noise levels at the proposed landfill site are expected to be low.
Similarly, there being no particularly noisy activities at the transfer station site or the existing dump sites,
the noise profiles are expected to be typical for light industrial and residential areas respectively.
Roads and Traffic

The proposed landfill site is located about 3 kilometers south east of al- Menya village and north east of
Kisen village. An agricultural road around 3.5 km long and 2 km local unpaved road site passing
through al-Menya village form the main accesses to the site (see Figure 6.4) . At the moment only local
domestic, farm and small commercial vehicles use these roads. Traffic frequency is very low.
The transfer station site is located beside the main road of the South Hebron industrial zone. The road
is divided into two lanes with a median width of 8.0 m for vehicle movement on each side. Traffic on the
road was counted for two hours 10:30-12:30 on 3/3/2009 and found to be 347 passenger cars, 19
medium trucks and 31 large trucks as an average per each direction of the road. This was well within
the capacity of the road (estimated at 4,000 vehicles per day). Vehicles access the industrial zone road
from the Road # 60, the main intercity highway, which is about 400 m distant from the site.
Visual Amenity
The proposed landfill site is within a rural landscape. The site itself is of limited landscape value but
forms part of an open, undeveloped area surrounded by hills that separate it from the Dead Sea basin.
The site area is visible from the surrounding hilltops and one of these is occupied by residential areas
belonging to Kisan village.
The transfer station side is within a fully developed area. It is overlooked by hills that have some
housing and commercial property on them.
The existing waste sites are in a variety of locations. The appearance of all of them is marred by waste
scattered over the sites, litter and wind-blown detritus, particularly plastics, and often by smoke from
numerous fires.
Land Use around the Landfill Site

The total population in the area around the proposed landfill site is estimated at 12,000-14,000 people.
mostly in three villages: al-Menya (1,200 people), Kisan (500 people) and Tqoue (9,000 people). The
site is at 1,000 m east of al-Menya, 1,200 m south of Kisan, and 2,500 m south east of Tqoue'.
- 29 -
The site itself is uncultivated scrubland, used for occasional grazing. It is abutted by sparsely vegetated
rocky land with some rain fed olives on two side, to the south east and north east, and to the north west
is unused land. There are no residences within a kilometer of the site, although a farmer recently
moved with his about 80 sheep to a farmhouse situated about 1,000 m west of the proposed location.
There are also a few farmhouses that are situated in olive gardens along the road from al-Menya village.
There used to be a few households of the Kisen Community in hamlets close to the proposed landfill
site, but these have been resettled in the Kisen village and in El Rashadyda. There are no residential
areas east of the proposed site.
Agriculture is the major activity for the al-Menya community. The farming systems are dominated by
wheat production systems on the deeper clayey soils in the north-western corner, and olive and sheep
production systems in the south-eastern corner of the village land. In the south-eastern corner, farmers
also used to grow winter wheat, however they stopped because of low yields due to shallow soils and
erratic rainfall. There are some traders in agricultural commodities (wheat and straw) and one stone
quarry industry in the village. Recently some farmers have invested in drip irrigation and green houses
for vegetable production. The irrigation water is purchased from an Israeli company that manages a
pumping station in the Siir Wadi.
Near the proposed landfill site, there has been a previous attempt to open a quarrying enterprise to the
west of the site at some 600 m and there is a current attempt from another land owner who is exploring
the same thing at a distance of 1 km to the north east of the site. However, most quarrying areas
belonging to Sair and Beit Fajjar and are located west (at 3 km distance) and south west.
Land Use around the Transfer Station Site

The proposed transfer station site is surrounded by a factories and workshops, the closest of which are
just a few meters away and include plastics manufacturers, carpentry workshops, aluminum workshops,
leather manufacturers and tanneries. There are some residential buildings around 130 m distant. The
surrounding land is privately owned. In addition to the industrial, commercial and residential buildings
there are a few vacant lots.
The Existing Dump Sites

The existence of the current dumping sites distributed over the areas of the two governorates has
severe social and environmental impacts. Not less than 17 dumping sites are in use and scattered over
the southern West Bank area. The existing main dumping area is close to Yatta and serves most of the
southern West Bank's localities. This has in the past created a severe environmental nuisance with
regard to air pollution due to burning of waste, smog and gas release. In the last two years significant
improvements have taken place. The waste is spread and covered on a daily basis and a weighbridge
has been installed at the entrance. Nevertheless, the dumping at the site for more than 15 years without
lining or proper containment of the leachates has given rise to significant threats to regional surface and
groundwater bodies. Leachates are seen in the adjacent wadis. In the winter time the flood water
3
washes out huge quantities of leachates (estimated at 14,000-20,000 m ). The soils and sediments in
the wadis are polluted by leachates and this is confirmed by the dark color of the sediments.
The problem is magnified by the unsanitary situation including allowing waste-picking on the site. This
has created social as well as severe environmental problems which affect the poorest people in the site
neighborhood.
In summary, the main impacts of the current dumping sites are:

• Air pollution due to waste burning that prevails in most of these sites
• The pollution of an area ranging from 60 to 70 ha of land occupied by these sites
• A lot of these sites are located upstream of the mouths of wadis and thus leachates are easily
moved by gravity and transported by the wadi flow. This has polluted wadi beds for long distances
and threatens the groundwater aquifers. Some springs such as al-Najadeh and al-Maleh at Kharas
and Nuba (Hebron governorates) are located inside a dumping site.
- 30 -
• Some of the sites are located in agricultural areas and negatively affect the surrounding land for up
to 500 to 1000 m. The effects are threatening animal production and polluting cultivated crops and
lands. Some of the crops produced in such areas are not accepted by markets so that the
economic return of such lands affected.
• Many sites are composed of several smaller sites extending over an area that may exceed 600 m,
spoiling a large land area with piles of dumped waste.
• Many sites are located close to residential areas and disturb the social and environmental quality of
people's life.
• The sites are open and this allows contact of people and animals with waste. Waste-picking
especially for metals was observed in several areas.
• Some of the sites receive also the wastewater coming via tankers from cesspits and this magnifies
the pollution problems.
• Some are very far from the centers of served areas and this costs the local authorities a lot for
maintenance because the trucks have to traverse a dirt road with high roughness in the road
surface.
• Some of these sites are not managed well, leaving most of the waste uncovered. This allows
insects breeding and threatens communities' health and allows proliferation of offensive odors.
• Some of these sites cause problems between different landowners and even between local councils
(authorities). Because some communities have the dumping site close or inside the neighboring
communities areas
• The land use national plan has been interrupted by the existence of such sites. Areas that are
intended for housing are rendered unsuitable due to existence of dumping sites.
• Some of them affect or disturb natural wildlife habitats
• Some sites allows industrial enterprises to send hazardous waste
• Many animals has been killed due to eating polluted crops or plastic products near or inside these
sites
• The price of the land close to those areas is getting lower because the areas look less attractive for
any land use.
• Neighboring land owners report that they have abandoned their lands since the establishment of
such dumping sites.
• The ephemeral wadis located close to those dumping sites are with polluted surface water. So that
watershed degradation in such areas is taking place.
- 31 -
Figure 6.4 Road Layout around the Proposed Landfill and Transfer Station Sites
- 32 -
٦.٣ Geology and Soils
٦.٣.١ Site Investigation
Site specific investigations of the geological and geotechnical characteristics of the deposits on the exact
location of the proposed landfill site have been undertaken and included the following:
• the excavation of three trial pits;

• the drilling of three boreholes to a maximum of 15 m;
• geological and geotechnical logging and mapping;
• laboratory geotechnical testing, and analysis and interpretation.
Southern West Bank

Solid Waste Management
Project
Conceptual design drawings
for the proposed Landfill
LEGEND
Description Symbol
contour
ring road
cell border
fence
grid
access road
soil pit s (A,B,C)or boreholes (BH1,2,3)
LF Site Name: al-Meniah' (site # 12)
Scale: 1: 3000
Sheet Name: Soil pits and boreholes locations
Sheet Date:9 July 2008
٦.٣.٢ Regional Bedrock Stratigraphy and Lithology
Geological mapping for the West Bank was first published by Rofe and Raffety (1965) and was revised by
the Geological Survey of Israel (published 1991). Formations throughout the West Bank consist largely of
carbonates, chert, chalk, sandstones, and evaporites that range from late Jurassic to Recent in age.
In general, the outcropping rocks of the southern area of West Bank belong to the Cretaceous – Tertiary
period. The geological columnar section encountered at the proposed site area, from the youngest to the
oldest was as follows.
- 33 -
• Jerusalem Formation (Turonian): Due to erosion of the youngest formations (eg. Abu Dies
Formation), Jerusalem Formation rocks are exposed in the proposed site area. This formation is
composed of dark grey –brown weathered massive limestone, locally cliff forming, finely grained
lithographic pink and buff in the lower part, cream re-crystallized dolomitic and occasionally
silicified in the upper part. The thickness of the Jerusalem formation ranges from 70 to130 m.
• Bethlehem Formation (Upper Cenomanian): Rocks of this formation consists mainly of cream-grey
bedded chalky limestone; frequently completely recrystalized to cream or pink porcellaneous
limestone, with softer marly chalky limestones and marls. The thickness of the Bethlehem
formation ranges from 100 to 150 m.
• Hebron Formation (Upper Cenomanian): Hebron Formation is composed of grey weathered

dolomitic limestones, and dolomite. The rock is hard, massive, and poorly bedded. It shows
sugary texture, a high secondary porosity and well developed karsts in many parts of the
formation. The thickness of the Hebron formation ranges between 160 to 250 meters.
• Yatta Formation (Lower Cenomanian): This formation lies beneath the Hebron formation. The
Yatta formation consists of brown-grey weathered marls and chalky limestone, with some partly
dolomitised, tough, thin bedded, white crystalline shelly limestone. The thickness of the Yatta
formation ranges from 80 to 108 meters.
• The Upper Beit Kahil Formation (Lower Cenomanian): Upper Beit Kahil Formation lithologically
differs from top to bottom. Upper part is composed from hard limestone, somewhat dolomitic,
showing karst weathering. Middle part is formed from thick bedded marly limestone. While the
base of the formation is mainly composed from marly limestone, and marl. The thickness of the
Upper Beit Kahil Formation rocks ranges from 180 to 260 meters.
• The Lower Beit Kahil Formation (Albian-Lower Cenomanian): The upper part of this formation is
mainly composed of cream-grey weathered, thick bedded fine grained dolomitic limestone, karstic
sometimes with chert. Middle part of the formation composed of thick and thin bedded limestone
and marly limestone sometimes with shale. While the lower part is formed from massive, grey-
weathered, thick bedded limestone. The thickness of the Lower Beit Kahil formation ranges from
215 to 260 meters.
Structural Geology
The Hebron anticline forms the main structural feature in the area. This anticline extends from Jerusalem in
the north to Beer Al Sabe'e in the south. This structure has a northeast trend in the southern part and north-
northeast to north-south in the northern part. Related to this main structure, other secondary folded
structures can be noticed in the area such as; Sureif monocline, Bani Naim monocline, Yatta syncline, and
Beit Fajar syncline.
In addition to these major folded structures, other minor structures of faulting, and jointing, can be observed
in the area. The fault pattern shows two indistinct sets of fault trend; north-south and east-west.
Joints distributed in the area mainly originate as a result of dolomitisation, and competency variation of
individual bed within a rock formation. These joints are developed in dolomitic limestone, and crystalline
limestone, while are not well defined in the chalks and marls. Karst pavements usually well developed on
hilltops, due to the solution of calcium carbonate by water that in turn increase the pore space and
permeability.
- 34 -
Figure 6.5 Geological Map of the Southern Part of the West Bank
Proposed Site No. 12
- 35 -
٦.٣.٣ Geology and Stratigraphy of the Project Site
The majority of the site comprises tills and outwash gravels and clay deposits from the surrounding
mountains and hills. There is a large area along the eastern margin of the site where alluvial deposits
associated with the mountains are present
.
Test pits excavated on-site and boreholes revealed alluvial deposits. Most pits comprised mainly silty
and sandy material with little to some gravel. The outcropping lithology consists mainly of hard limestone
strata, hard, white, banded (<0.5- max.1.5m band), massive and fractured, Figure 13 a & b shows the
fracture development vertically and horizontally. The general geological setting of the site and around
suggests that these strata may be economically feasible to quarry for stone and marble.
(a) (b)
Figure 6.6: Developed fractures at the outcropping limestone
Field observations and in situ site investigations show that the outcropping limestone formation
continues its vertical extension within the geological profile to a depth of at least 10m. Nevertheless
changes in hardness, moisture content, permeability and/or porosity are expected due to the probable
occurrence of other rock type/s (e.g. cherts, flints, marls, marlstones, dolomites) within the limestone
formation.
o
The whole rock succession dips east - southeast (approx. 5 ). Slight undulations of the whole
succession towards the south (in the southern areas of the site) or north (in the northern areas) ranging
o o
between 1 and 2 are common to observe.
The structure of the whole rock succession forms the eastern flank of the regional anticline, no faults or
other folding structures were observed in the locality. The existence of a natural cave and the
development of surface dissolution cavities within the outcropping limestone formation indicate karst
activities, so the existence of other subsurface caves or caverns is likely. This was confirmed by the site
investigation (Borehole #1: E172792 / N 113929). A cavity was hit at depth of 5 m below the surface and
continued for 5 meters. The size of such cavities remains unknown.
- 36 -
Figure 6.7: Surface dissolution cavities
٦.٣.٤ Seismic Activities
The Geophysical Institute of Israel estimates that, in the general area of the project, the return frequency
of seismic events of Magnitude 5.0 is once per hundred years and Magnitude 6.0 once per thousand
years. It is estimated that the maximum seismic event associated with this Branch Fault is Magnitude
6.5 which would result in a maximum ground displacement of < 1 m and, probably, of less than 0.5 m.
Experts estimated that land 15 m from the individual fault would not be directly affected by any
displacement along the fault - in all probability land as close as 1 m from the fault plane would also be
unaffected.
٦.٣.٥ Superficial Materials and Top Soil
The majority of the site is mantled by Terra-Rosa soil, which is characterized by a reddish to dark brown
color and high elasticity and plasticity limits. These soils occupy most of the middle part of the plot
especially the lowlands and wadi banks. They show exceptional thickness as test pit excavations
carried out up to approximately 5m deep revealed only Terra-Rosa soils.
On the surface and coming nearer to the hilly areas, these soils show a higher content of limestone -
fragments of gravel and boulder size. The Terra-Rosa cover starts to wedge out as we approach the
hilly areas. Calcareous soil cover, which is hardly to delineate within the site vicinity as it is very thin
and formed mainly of a mixture of cobbled limestone and chert fragments were encountered. These
are the weathering by-products of the prevailing calcareous rocks that totally cover the whole region.
This soil occurs mainly as pile patches and/or thin sheets scattered randomly within the site vicinity. The
color of this soil is earthy white. The Western part of the site has a sparse rocky appearance and, to the
west, becomes a completely rocky area.
The land at the site and extending eastward is of decreasing use and value. The site itself contains
3
significant quantities of clay (estimated at 15,000-20,000 m ) which could be used for lining for the cells
and for bottom and top cover.
٦.٤ Hydrogeology and Hydrology
٦.٤.١ Hydrogeology of Southern West Bank
The hydrogeology of the project area has been developed from a site-specific hydraulic assessment and
from published and unpublished data derived from the following sources:
• Palestinian Water Authority;
• Palestinian Hydrology Group;
- 37 -
• Water and Soil Environmental Research Unit, Bethlehem University;
• Geological Survey of Israel;
• Israeli Hydrology Centre; and
• Israeli Department of Environmental Affairs for the West Bank.
In general, water bearing formations (aquifers) in the West Bank are mainly composed of limestone and
dolomite. Outcropping rocks (recharge area) of the water bearing formations are mainly characterized
by prominent craggy outcrops and well jointed, honeycombed, and karstified pavements features. It is
likely that the weathering of long bedding planes and major joints has resolved into a series of
interconnecting fissures and then to cavern systems that continue underground. These features
increase the secondary permeability of the rock formations that in turn increase the storage capacity and
rate of groundwater flow. Thus, outcropping areas of these water bearing formations are considered
sensitive groundwater recharge areas.
Main aquifers and aquicludes in the area are:
• The Turonian-Upper Cenomanian aquifer system: This aquifer system has a thickness of about
400 meters in some places, while it consists of three water-bearing formations of Jerusalem,
Bethlehem, and Hebron. Outcropping areas of these water bearing formations form the recharge
area of the aquifer system. A groundwater divide on the crest of the mountainous area separates
groundwater draining eastwards to the Eastern Slopes and to the Dead sea, and that draining
westwards to the coastal plain. The groundwater level of this aquifer system is between 300 to 350
meters above sea level. The system feeds several wells and springs in the area and so the
recharge areas are considered sensitive.
• Yatta Formation: As a result of its lithological composition (high marl content), the Yatta formation is
considered to be an aquiclude in the area separating the upper aquifer system from the lower.
Hydrogeologically, outcropping areas of this formation are considered to be non-sensitive.
• The Lower Cenomanian aquifer system: This aquifer system comprises of the upper Beit Kahil, and
the lower Beit Kahil formations. Thickness of aquifer system reaches about 450 meters. Outcrops
of the water bearing formations mostly of limestone and dolomite form a recharge area of the
aquifer system. Hydrogeologically, outcropping areas of this aquifer system are considered
sensitive groundwater recharge areas. The groundwater level of this system is situated between
350 to 400 meters above sea level.
Several wells drilled in the area are fed from this aquifer system. Wells of this aquifer are mostly
characterized by good discharge.
Groundwater in the vicinity of the site, therefore, is sourced from the Upper and Lower Cenomanian
aquifers. However, the Palestinian Water Authority, which is involved in the supply of water and
regulation of water related issues, confirmed that the site area is not a critical groundwater recharge or
supply area. This is because of the low precipitation and high evapotranspiration in the area, and the
considerable depth to potable groundwater (200 – 300 m below the surface). It can be concluded
therefore that this groundwater is not vulnerable to contamination from the proposed landfill site due to
low rainfall and limited infiltration rates.
٦.٤.٢ Groundwater Abstraction and Groundwater Quality
Groundwater abstraction for both domestic and agricultural use is undertaken throughout the Hebron
District. Figure 6.8 records domestic water abstractions in the southern West Bank. There are no
agricultural wells in the area. The Figure shows three domestic wells within a 5 km radius, to the north-
west and south-west, of the proposed landfill site. The proposed site is mostly located within a surface
watershed that drains into a wadi system that does not belong to the same catchment or the flow
- 38 -
direction of any of these wells. As far as is known, the existing wells in the area are located on wadi Sair
hydraulic gradient line, which is not connected with the site's wadi. However, according to available
maps on groundwater level, the site's groundwater is at a depth exceeding 200 m below surface.
Figure 6.8: Domestic water abstraction wells in the southern West Bank
Legend: Jerusalem
Phase 1 Well
Phase 2 Well
World Bank
Reservoir
Booster Station Dohasha IZZ1
Phase 1 Pipeline Reservoir
Bethlehem
Phase 2 Pipeline JWC4
World Bank
USAID Hundaza
120 AFD
City PWA3 IZZ2
Westbank Border
PWA11
Kharas
Reservoir
PWA1
O site 12
110
Halhoul Reservoir
Dead Sea
25000m3 EH2
Hebron
Reservoir
BN3
Hebron BS2
BN2
BS1
Dura
Reservoir Bani Naim
100
Reservoir
East Yatta
Reservoir
Central Yatta
Adh Dahirya Reservoir
90
140 150 160 170 180
٦.٤.٣
٦.٤.٤ Groundwater Quality
A study issued by the Millennium Engineering Group (1999) provides general background information
on the quality of groundwater abstracted from the Upper and Lower Aquifers (Table 6.1).
Table 6.1 Aquifer Water Quality
Parameter Concentration (Parts per million)
Upper Aquifer Lower Aquifer

Chloride (Cl) 25 - 100 25 - 100
Nitrate (NO3) 20 - 45 0 - 20
Sulphate (SO4) 0 - 25 0 - 25
Chloride/Sodium (Cl/Na) Ratio 1.5 - 2.5
Calcium/Magnesium (Ca/Mg) Ratio 2:4
٦.٥ Hydrology
٦.٥.١ Catchment Details
According to figure 6.9, the site follows the catchment of Jerusalem Desert .
- 39 -
Figure 6.9: Surface Catchment Areas and Drainage Systems
Source: Atlas of Palestine, 2001
Surface Catchment Areas and Drainage

Systems
Main City
Safad
Permanent Wadi ‘ Aka
Intermittent Wadi
Catchment Boundary
West Bank and Gaza Boundary
Haifa
L. Tabariyya
SYRIA
Number Name
1 Tabariyya
Auja/Fasayil
2 Lower Jordan
3 Far’ a
4 Wadi El Qilt
5 Jenin An Nasirah
6 Northern Jordan
7 Nablus 5
8 Barta’ a
9 Jerusalem
10 Jerusalem Desert
11 Auja Tamaseeh
8 Beisan
Jenin
2
7
Tulkarm
3 6
Nablus
Qalqiliya
Tel Aviv Jordan River

11
Yafa JORDAN
1
Al Lid
Ar Ramlah Ariha
Ramallah (Jericho)
9
Al Quds
(Jerusalem)
Bethlehem
‘ Asqalan
ISRAEL Dead Sea

Site 12
Jabalya Al Khalil
Gaza (Hebron)
10
Deir al Balah
Khan Yunis
Rafah
Bi’ r As Sabi’
EGYPT
SINAI
10 0 10 km
٦.٥.٢ Surface Water Resources
There is no surface water flow in the vicinity of the proposed landfill site. There are two small wadis that
begin, morphologically, within the vicinity of the plot, and drain in a slight meandering pattern towards
the east. There is potential for occasional storm water flows during the winter/wet season although no
data are available to quantify these. As noted above (Section 6.2.2), anecdotal and physical evidence
suggests that flood events or large storm water flows are extremely rare.
- 40 -
٦.٦ Ecology
٦.٦.١ Sources of Information
A primary source of information on the general project area was the ecological literature search
completed by ERM (references # 8 -11). The proposed landfill site was also checked against different
thematic maps (rainfall, evaporation, cultivation, land suitability for agriculture production, soil salinity,
sodium content, sensitivity to environmental pressures, and nature reserves). In addition, a site survey
was carried out to identify plant species on the site. Due to the unexpectedly long delay to the rains
after the summer, the survey of flora at the site may have missed some species. To supplement the
review, therefore, people familiar with the region (including agricultural engineers, Bedouins and
shepherds) were asked to identify the flora and fauna species in the neighborhood via a check-list.
٦.٦.٢ Flora
According to Zohary (1966) and Feinbrun-Dothan (1978), more than 4,000 species are recorded in Flora
Palaestina, of which approximately 2500 species are expected to exist in the Palestinian Territories
(Shmida, Personal Communication). Danin (1988) stated that Palestine is one of the richest countries in
the region in terms of diversified plant species, due to diversified climatic conditions.
The Hebron area encompasses two different agroclimatic zones (high lands and eastern slopes) and
includes the four geographical zones prevailing in Palestine (Mediterranean, Irano-Turanian, Saharo-
Arabian and Sudani Penetration). This implies a wide diversification within this district in terms of flora
and fauna.
Hebron flora is dominated by Sarcopoterium Spinosum, Salsola vermiculata, Quercus Calliprinos,

Acacia Raddiana Savi, Artemisia Monosperma, Rumex Rothschildianus, Atriplex Halimus, Calycotonie
Villosa, Prosopis Farcta, Cistus Creticus, Suadca asphaltica, Teucrium polium, Retama raetam, and
Tamarix nilotica.
The area of the proposed landfill site is classified as a transitional ecology between that of plant-rich
high lands and rangeland (eastern slopes). Vegetated areas do not exceed 10-15% of the site and the
site is covered mostly with Acacia Iacta, Sarcopoterium Spinosum, Thymelia hirsuta and Ballota
undolata. Sarcopoterium Spinosum and the other observed species are widespread in the Palestinian
Territories, especially in the marginal areas, in areas with low rainfall and in less fertile soils. In addition,
further species of plants of limited numbers and distribution were recorded. These include Carlinia
involcata, Artemisia Monosperma, Criticum glomorata, Salsola vermiculata, Gundelia tournefortii,
Atriplex Halimus, Cistus Creticus, Teucrium polium, Retama raetam and Tamarix nilotica. In spring time
some surviving species belonging to the family/genus: Thistle Luffa, chamomile, and wormwood, can
be seen sparsely distributed and some other herbs and weeds.
The survey assessment confirmed work compiled by the Palestinian Institute for Arid Lands and
Environmental Studies (PIALES) (Combating Desertification in the Palestinian Jordan Valley: An
Approach towards Sustainable Development) who do not consider the area of the proposed landfill
development has specific importance with respect to its ‘biodiversity’ (either flora or fauna) or ‘important
rangeland’. The same PIALES study produced a list of flora defined as ‘protected national assets’. No
flora present at the site is of a protected species. All of the observed flora are common throughout the
region and within other Palestinian territories.
The area suffers from desertification and overgrazing, therefore the flora existence is highly limited and
disturbed. Also the environmental degradation is linked to the drought conditions that are frequently
encountered in this area. Uprooting of plant cover, and sowing of animal feed crops has further
lessened the value of this particular site,
- 41 -
٦.٦.٣ Fauna
Fauna in the West Bank area is very diverse in response to the considerable variation of natural
habitats. Documented fauna in the region includes 67 families of birds of which 45 are local breeds, 33
families of mammals, 93 species and sub-species of reptiles, and 7 different species of amphibians.
Fauna species recorded in the region and have been witnessed by people interviewed as part of the
ERM study include Red Fox (vulpes vulpes palaestina), Badger, Ichneumon, Striped Hyena, Wild Cat,
Caracal Lynx, Mountain Gazalle (Gazalle gazalle), Ibex, Hare (Lepus capensis). Notable bird species
include the Dove (Rock and others), Black Kite, Griffen Vulture, Owl, Chukar, Quail, Lark, Pipit, and
Raven.
People reported that until around 10 years ago many species of birds, deer (gazelle), rabbits, partridge,
other birds (i.e. sparrows such as hedge or sun sparrows) were all present on the site, but that these
have now disappeared. Currently only some sparrows and partridge could be seen for some time of the
year. Even the carnivores such as hyena and foxes have disappeared from the site area. During the site
investigation fewer than 10 birds were actually seen and no animals.
It is likely that the fauna that used to be in the area have been affected by over hunting (using shooting
and traps) and that some have moved inside the nature reserve to find a safer habitat while the
remainder are locally extinct.
As a part of the PIALES study, a list of native fauna species defined as protected national assets was
drawn up. The list includes birds, reptiles and amphibians, and 11 mammals. The proposed landfill site
is not considered of being of specific value with respect to wildlife territories and corridors affecting these
animals.
٦.٧ Socio-economic Factors
٦.٧.١ Demographics
Hebron Governorate
The Hebron Governorate is the most southern governorate of the West Bank. It is situated south of the
Bethlehem Governorate and bounded to the west, south and east by Israel. The Hebron Governorate
2
covers a total area of 1,060 km and is predominantly rural. It has only has one major city: Hebron, plus
around 70 Palestinians towns and villages, 4 refugee camps and a number of Israeli settlements. It also
includes Israeli-designated closed military areas, military bases and nature reserves.
In 2007 the PCBS estimated the total population of Hebron Governorate to be more than a half million
2
persons, who live in around 90,000 households, with a population density of 520 person/km . Of these,
34% lived in the urban areas, 58% in the rural area, and the remaining 8% in the refugee camps. The
sex ratio was 104.1 with males outnumbering females. The population growth was 35.9% between 1997
and 2007, which is high compared to other governorates.
Spatially the population is concentrated in the centre of the Governorate. Hebron city has more than
120,000 inhabitants, and is surrounded by Halhul, Yatta, Dura, Al-Dhahariya, each with more than
20,000 inhabitants. The rural population is spatially concentrated in the hilly area of the central, northern
and western and mid eastern parts of the Governorate. The eastern part, from the eastern hills to the
shores of the Dead Sea is has been declared closed military area and Palestinians are not allowed to
enter there.
- 42 -
Bethlehem Governorate
Bethlehem Governorate is located 8 kilometers south of Jerusalem City, in the southern part of the West
Bank. The Hebron District is to the south and southwest, the Dead Sea to the east and Israel to the
west. The Governorate covers a total area of 575 square km and includes three major municipalities:
Bethlehem, Beit Jela and Beit Sahour. In addition it covers 71 Palestinians towns and villages, 3
refugee camps and 20 Israeli settlements (ARIJ 2006).
In 2005 the total population of Bethlehem Governorate was estimated at around 175,000 persons, who
live in 33,000 households. Of these 34% lived in the urban areas, 58% in the rural area, and 8% in the
three refugee camps. The sex ratio is 103.9 with males outnumbering female inhabitants. The
population grew 28.6% between 1997 and 2007.
2
The population density in the Bethlehem Governorate was close to 4,000 person/km . Spatially the
population is concentrated in urban area in the centre of the Governorate, where the cities of
Bethlehem, Beit Jala and Beit Sahour are situated. The rural population is spatially concentrated in the
hilly area of the western, southern and mid eastern parts of the Governorate. The eastern part, from the
eastern hills to the shores of the Dead Sea is has been declared closed military area and Palestinians
are not allowed to enter there.
٦.٧.٢ Employment
Number of Workers
In the West Bank 55.8% of the population is of working age (15 years or older). In Hebron Governorate
60.7% of those of working age are outside the labor market. These are housewives, students, retired
persons and persons unable to work on various grounds. Of the labor force, 12.4% are unemployed.
These are mainly young persons who are trying to enter the labor market. In 2006, Hebron Governorate
had the highest unemployment rate in the West Bank.
The main sector of employment is the service sector, which engages about 46.6% of the active labor
force. About a quarter of the active labor force is involved in construction (25.2 percent).
In Bethlehem, many persons are engaged in services related to tourism (around 14% in commerce
hotels and restaurants). Tourism, construction and trade are all severely affected by the current political
and economic conditions in the West Bank.
Table 6.2: Employment by Sector in the West Bank
Sector % Employed
Agriculture 7.7
Mining and Industry 20.5
Construction 25.2
Commerce, hotels and restaurants 14.0
Transport and communication 5.5
Public and private services 27.1
(PCBS 2006 Labor force survey)
Of the workers, 51.6 percent are employees, 39.4 percent are self-employed, 5.9 percent are unpaid
workers and only 3.1 percent of them are employers.
Industry
Hebron is renowned for its leather and shoe industries, which counts for about 40% of the industrial
production. More than 450 footwear and leather manufacturing units employ more than 8,000 workers
and their total production is estimated at 60,000 pairs a day. Other important industrial activities are
- 43 -
marble quarrying and processing, construction material production and mining. Hebron District counts
for 66% of the Palestinian marble production, with its 300 quarries and 600 stone cutting companies.
In Bethlehem, factories are primarily small family businesses that are involved in the production of
handicrafts for the tourist sector. Oil woodcarving, textiles and embroidery and marble carving form the
major industries. However, the political and economic conditions have resulted in production below
potential capacities, low profits and high investments risks in the industrial sector.
Agriculture
Agriculture is an important economic sector in the Hebron Governorate. The Governorate is renowned
for its fruits (grapes, plums and peach), its vegetables and its olives. The Central System for Statistics
has shown that in 1996-1997 about 32,000 ha were under cultivation, of which 45 % was planted with
fruits, 47% with arable crops (wheat and barley) and 4% with vegetables. Shepherds can be observed in
the Hebron hills and poultry farms in the outskirts of Hebron city.
The agricultural sector in Bethlehem Governorate has been seriously affected by the Israeli settlement
and security policies. The sector has good potential in Bethlehem given the short distance to Jerusalem
and the favorable climatic conditions, but it is undermined by the political and economic conditions. The
western part of Bethlehem receives a relative high annual rainfall, and this area is planted with arable
crops (wheat and barley), fruit trees (olive, groves and grapes) and irrigated agriculture for vegetables.
The total cultivated area of the Bethlehem district amounts to around 7,000 ha (2005). Livestock forms
the dominant activity in the eastern part of Bethlehem, which is semi-arid. However the Eastern
Segregation Zone has limited the mobility of the shepherds and increased the grazing density.
٦.٧.٣ Key Social Services and Utilities
In general, municipalities are showing increasing interest for managing the services in their areas, as a
result of having encountered emergency conditions and gaining experience in dealing with limited
financial sources. Hebron municipality has responsibility for solid waste and water distribution from its
own managed wells. Smaller municipalities such as Halhoul, Yatta, and al-Smoue' suffer from lack of
equipment and trucks for solid waste, water and wastewater services.
In Hebron, the number of governmental clinics is 42 and there are 7 hospitals. The district hospital is
managed by the public sector, five smaller hospitals by the private sector, and by a charity society; the
other 5 hospitals belong to the private sector. The number of beds available in these hospitals was 369
in 2005, which means 0.64 beds per 1000 inhabitants, which is low.
In Bethlehem, there are nine hospitals. There are 1.2 physicians per 1,000 inhabitants. The number of
beds available in these hospitals was 626 in 2007, which means 3.6 beds per 1000 inhabitants.
٦.٧.٤ Employment/Livelihood at the Existing Waste Sites
Waste-pickers are a common phenomenon on the existing Yatta landfill in Hebron Governorate. Daily
between 30 and 50 persons, and during the school vacations even between 60 and 100 persons, sort
through the solid waste that is deposited by the compactor trucks. The waste-pickers are male and
some young boys, whose number increases during school vacations. Occasionally some Bedouin
women scavenge the site for firewood.
Metal traders have trailers that they park on the landfill site to buy metals from waste-pickers. Some
waste-pickers have pick-up vehicles on which they transport the separated solid waste to nearby
villages and to Yatta city. The poorer households use donkeys as means of transport. Key informants
explained that they did not observe waste-pickers at the Al Ei Zariya landfill site in Eastern Jerusalem
and the three smaller landfill sites in Bethlehem Governorate.
- 44 -
The PCBS estimated that overall15% of the metal waste in the Palestinian territories is separated, but
that the percentage is much higher for southern West Bank. Glass is also widely recycled, since Hebron
City has a glass industry that specializes on handicrafts, and that uses waste glass. Owners of
mechanical workshops explained that they sell metal and old rubber tires to waste-pickers or petty
traders that come to their establishment at regular intervals.
A rapid assessment of the informal solid waste management systems showed that the private sector
becomes involved in solid waste separation and recycling when markets are available to provide income
generating opportunities. Although there is a cultural stigma associated with refuse work, under- and
unemployment makes it socially more acceptable as livelihood strategy for the poorer strata of the urban
and rural populations.
- 45 -
٧ ASSESSMENT AND MITIGATION OF IMPACTS
٧.١ Introduction
٧.١.١ Contents of this Section
Baseline surveys (Section 5) were carried out to ensure that comprehensive information was available
on the nature of the existing environment in the project areas. On the basis of the project proposals
described in Section 3, this Section provides the following:
• Assessment of the potential positive and negative environmental and social impacts resulting from
the development of improved waste collection and transfer services, and the development of the
engineered landfill;
• Description of the adequacy of the mitigation measures included in the Conceptual Designs of
project proposals (Section 3);
• Description of environmental issues to be managed during the construction and implementation of
the project, which are further elaborated in the ESMP
• the potential significance of any residual impacts not mitigated fully by the project design.
٧.١.٢ Identification of Impacts
As described above, (Section 4.2) environmental and social impacts arise during the construction,
operation and decommissioning of facilities. In the currently proposed project the main potential causes
of impacts will be as follows.
The Proposed Landfill Site

• Change of the land use of the site (purchase of land, displacement of users, destruction of
biological habitat, interruption of natural water flows, prevention of other potential economic
activities of the land, appearance of the site)
• Construction activities (movement of vehicles, excavation, storage of construction materials,
access to the site through existing and temporary roads)
• Filling of waste ( movements of heavy vehicles to and from the site, operation of machinery,
pollution from the waste, hazards associated with landfill gas, seismicity, illicit dumping etc)
• Closing and rehabilitation of the site (interruption of natural water flows, creation of biological
habitat, need for monitoring of gas and leachate)
The Proposed Transfer Station Site

• Change of the land use of the site (purchase of land, displacement of users, appearance of the
site, prevention of other potential economic activities of the land)
• Construction activities (movement of operation of machinery, access to the site through
existing and temporary roads)
• Operation of the station (movements of heavy vehicles and RCVs to and from the site,
operation of machinery, pollution from the waste, visual appearance)
Closure of the Existing Waste Dumps

• Change of the land use of the site ( displacement of waste pickers, appearance of the site,
opportunities for other potential economic activities of the land)
• Coverage of waste (prevention of pollution, improved visual appearance
• Operation of the station (movements of heavy vehicles and RCVs to and from the site,
operation of machinery, pollution from the waste, visual appearance)
- 46 -
٧.١.٣ Assessment and Mitigation of Impacts
As described in Section 5, the content and extent of the environmental and social matters which needed
to be addressed in this ESIA were identified through scoping. This helps to ensure that the
environmental information used for decision making provides a comprehensive picture of the effects of
the project, including issues of particular concern to affected groups and individuals. Scoping also helps
to focus the resources on the important environmental and social issues for decision making, and avoids
wasted effort on issues of little relevance.
Meetings, special studies and consultation meetings (Section 5) were carried out to ensure that
comprehensive information was available on the involved stakeholders and their interests in the MSW
planning. Particular attention was paid to the potential risks that the stakeholders’ interests created for
the planning, construction and management of a regional municipal waste management project.
Impacts were evaluated as to their potential significance, and ranked in accordance with the anticipated
degree of importance, as follows:
• significant: The effect on a sensitive receptor is unacceptable (either because it breaches

relevant norms, guidelines or policy, or causes damage to a valuable asset or resource)
• moderate: Some effect on a sensitive receptor may be discernable, the effect is either very
short-lived or within currently accepted norms etc, but will be mitigated unless no cost-effective
measures are available; and,
• slight or none: The effect is temporarily and of negligible concern
The norms and standards of the Palestinian Authority, the World Bank and international good practice
were taken into account in making these assessments. Weight was also given to the concerns of
stakeholders (as summarized in Section 4 of this document). Impacts have also been assessed as to
whether they are of short-term or long-term duration, whether they are reversible or irreversible, and
whether they are positive or negative. Measures to avoid, reduce or compensate for potentially
significant negative impacts have been suggested in every case. Where impacts are predicted to be
moderate and for positive impacts, mitigation and enhancement measures have been suggested where
these are cost-effective and in accordance with good practice.
Table 7.1 summarizes the potential impacts of the project if no mitigation measures are adopted. The
following Sections discuss each of the potential impacts and their causes. They also describe the
mitigation measures that will be included in the ESMP to ensure that all significant negative impacts are
avoided, abated to an acceptable level or compensated for. Any additional mitigation measures
considered necessary beyond those already incorporated in the project design are discussed in Section
9, together with the recommendations for environmental management, environmental monitoring and
associated institutional development and technical capacity building.
- 47 -
Table 7.1 Summary Assessment of Potential Impacts Before Mitigation
Proposed Proposed Existing

Impact Landfill site Transfer Waste
Category and Station Disposal
Potential Impact approaches Site Areas
Odor impacts from site activities -1 -1 +1
Dust generated from on-site vehicle
movements and placement of waste
and cover material 0 0 +1
Vehicle exhaust emissions on-site 0 -1 0
Air Quality Dust and emissions from construction
activities -1 -1 0
Effects from emission of greenhouse
gases 0 0 -1
Improved air quality on cessation of
waste burning +1 0 0
Noise arising from construction of the
landfill and transfer station -1 -1 0
Noise Operational noise 0 0 0
Noise from Vehicle Movement 0 0 0
Effects of site operations upon visual
amenity -1 -1 +2
Change in landscape character from
site construction -1 -1 +2
Aesthetic
Improvement in visual amenity upon
closure of the existing landfill 1 0 +2
Permanent change in landscape upon
site restoration -1 0 0
Increased traffic loading and traffic
congestion -1 -1 0
Air quality impacts from vehicle
Roads and
Traffic emissions -1 -1 0
Traffic noise 0 0 0
Littering and cleanliness during waste
transit -2 0 0
Impacts from seismic activity 0 0 0
Impacts from slope instability -1 0 0
Geology and Risks from cavities in the limestone
Soils underlying the site -2 0 0
Impacts at the off-site sources of
construction materials -1 0 0
Contamination of water resources from
project leachate emissions -2 0 +2
Cessation of contamination of water
Hydrogeology,
Hydrology, resources from existing disposal sites 0 0 +2
and Water Alteration of surface water regime -1 0 0
Quality Increased suspended sediment loading
from site preparation activities
-1 -1 0
Loss of biological habitats 0 0 0
Ecology Severance of wildlife corridors 0 0 0
Extension of habitats (buffer zones) +1 0 0
- 48 -
Creation of new habitats (post-
restoration) +1 0 +1
Domestic animals and livestock 0 0 0
Direct exposure to hazardous material 0 0 +2
Contamination of potable water with
leachate -1 0 0
Public health
and safety Exposure to landfill gas -2 0 -2
Exposure to vermin acting as disease
vectors -1 0 -2
Risk of traffic accidents -2 -1 -1
Impacts of Land Acquisition and on
Land Use -2 0 -2
Loss of Arable and Grazing Land -1 0 +1
Social and
Impacts on Local Social Structure -2 0 +2
socio-
Impacts on Local Employment +1 0 +1
economic
Impacts on Waste Pickers +1 +1 -1
Impacts on Cultural Heritage -2 0 +2
Impacts of Induced Development 0 0 +2
0 = negligible/slight; 1 = moderate; 2 = significant; - negative; + positive
- 49 -
٧.٢ Air Quality
٧.٢.١ Odor
Proposed Landfill Site

Odors at landfill sites are generated from:
• the movement, placement and decomposition of waste;
• landfill gas; and
• collection, storage and treatment of leachate.
Waste transported to the landfill is likely to have already undergone some decomposition and as a
result, may be odorous on arrival at the landfill site. Specified procedures for sanitary landfilling include
a range of measures intended to provide effective control of odors during waste deposition, primarily the
disposal of waste in small well-defined cells, the compaction of waste and the application of cover to
prevent prolonged exposure of vulnerable wastes to the atmosphere. These measures will be
implemented on site as routine operational practice. In addition, any particularly odorous wastes will be
buried immediately within previously deposited waste and covered immediately.
Cover materials at the site will be derived from excavated material from the construction of the landfill
which will be stored on site. If supplementary material is needed, three other sources will be considered
including the following.
• Crushed and sorted inert construction wastes, of which significant volumes are being
generated throughout the region;
• stable, non-odorous, ‘compost’ produced from the composting of organic waste materials;
• inert stabilized waste retrieved from closed dump sites, delivered to site as part of the closure
and clean-up plan for small dump sites; and/or temporary sheeting and covers, made from
plastic or natural fiber.
Landfill gas also has significant potential to generate odor impacts. These can be minimized through the
collection and flaring of landfill gas. Both of these measures are incorporated in the proposed landfill
design.
Treatment of leachate can give rise to strong and persistent odors, particularly since project proposals
advocate, as one of the principal measures for leachate control and management, the re-circulation and
spraying of leachate back to the landfill following aeration. The area mostly receives western winds that
carry odors from the landfill to the eastern (uninhabited area) and the leachate collection pond is located
over 500 m from the sensitive receivers on the east-south-east margin of the site. Nevertheless, re-
circulation of leachate should be undertaken only under appropriate climatic conditions, taking into
account the prevailing wind direction and the distance of the active waste deposition area from the
nearest sensitive receivers.
With effective control, odors can be minimized but can never be eliminated in their entirety. Accordingly,
potential impacts are considered to be negative and of moderate significance.
Transfer Station
The potential for odor impact at the transfer station arises from the odor of the waste arriving in the
RCVs, especially if it was collected after more than 5-6 days in the bin. Other sources of odor could be
leachate retained in the catch pit and channels.
Normal operation at the transfer station is for the waste to be unloaded through a hopper into a closed
container. During this process the waste is exposed to the atmosphere for only a few seconds.
Therefore, the probability of odors from this source being perceptible beyond the premises of the station
is low. Prevention of odor from other sources will be achieved by good site practice and cleanliness,
and by regular maintenance of the drainage and leachate collection systems.
- 50 -
Existing Waste Sites
Many of the current waste collection points do not give rise to noticeable odor impacts since they are
located favorably away from potentially sensitive receivers. The proposed project will introduced more
waste collection points throughout a given town or village and it is inevitable that containers may be
located in closer proximity to sensitive receivers than hitherto. There is a potential therefore that some
people are exposed to an odor nuisance. Accordingly, in locating containers it is essential to consider
the site-specific local circumstances. Sensitive receivers, such as schools, should be avoided wherever
possible. Waste management employees will be trained in choosing such locations and operating
procedures, including a complaints handling procedure, will be put in place to supervise and monitor
their performance. Notwithstanding that there will be more communal containers throughout the
Governorate, it is considered that the overall impact of project proposals will be to reduce potential odor
and air quality impacts associated with waste decomposition and waste burning. Thus, project proposals
are considered to be significantly positive.
٧.٢.٢ Dust from Construction and Operation and Smoke
Emissions from Construction Activities

Dust emissions are likely during all significant construction activities at the landfill site. Dust from site
earthworks, including the construction of peripheral embankments and rockfill dams, road works, site
facility construction and installation of the basal lining system are all likely to impact ambient air quality,
particularly during the initial phases of construction. In the case of the landfill site, there are no nearby
dwellings or occupied buildings likely to be affected. There could, however be some disturbance to road
users and sheep grazing.
At the transfer station site, some dust may arise during construction due action of the wind on stored
construction materials, movements of vehicles around the site and some demolition and construction of
walls, fences, etc. There are nearby buildings that could be affected as could road users.
In both cases, measures to reduce the potential impacts will include:

• covering of stockpiles of friable materials in order to reduce the potential for windblown dust;
• damping down of site roads, supplies of water permitting; and
• early installation of wheel wash facilities and mandatory use for all vehicles leaving the sites.
Dust from Operation

At the landfill it is proposed that dust generated from site operations, including the crushing of stone, will
be minimized and managed through good site practices, as follows:
• filling the landfill in small, well-defined cells;
• compaction of the deposited waste and application of cover material;
• use of temporary wind breaks in the active waste deposition area;
• use of baffles and vegetative screens wherever possible;
• damping down when water is available;
• construction of well-formed and well-maintained site roads throughout the site;
• ensuring that there is no burning of waste on site; and
• ensuring that the wheels and chassis of all vehicles are cleaned prior to departure from the site.
With judicious application of these mitigation measures the quantity of dust emissions can be kept to a
minimum.
At the transfer station, after construction is concluded, almost, no dust is expected to be generated due
the fact that all surfaces will be paved, and waste transfer is enclosed. Minor dust arisings may occur
when waste that contains a high percentage of small particles such as stone dust, sawdust, etc is
unloaded into the hopper. Any impact would be local, several meters around the hopper, and not
beyond the transfer station boundaries.
- 51 -
If this became a nuisance, the compactor operator would be required to spray water around the hopper.
Vehicle Exhaust Emissions from On-Site Vehicle Movements

Vehicle exhaust emissions from landfill plant and refuse collection vehicles have the potential to cause a
deterioration in local baseline air quality. Vehicle emissions from the development and subsequent
operation of the landfill site will, inevitably, have some impact on the ambient air quality at the site,
although such impacts will be so small as to be undetectable, except locally on the site access road and
internal site roads and, only then, during the peak hour(s) of waste deliveries.
Any effects witnessed on a local-scale will be temporary nature and restricted to the immediate point of
exhaust emission. The number of RCVs delivering waste to the landfill in the first year of site operations
is estimated to be approximately 85, equivalent to 170 traffic movements at the site. With the exception
of the hours between 11.00 and 13.00, at which time at least one-third of all deliveries will arrive at the
site, the average number of RCVs per hour is around 4 to 6, resulting in one vehicle movement every 5
to 7.5 minutes on average.
Even at peak hours the number of vehicle movements is considerably less than recorded on the
Bethlehem – Hebron road adjacent to the site. At this location, no significant impacts on ambient air
quality have been observed as a consequence of traffic movements. Overall, the potential impact of
vehicle emissions resulting from landfill-related traffic is considered to be minimal.
Effects from Emission of Greenhouse Gases

There is considerable debate over the sources and impacts of greenhouse gasses. However, methane
gas, one of the major gaseous products from the decomposition of waste in anaerobic conditions, is
widely understood to be a major greenhouse gas. Gas from the decomposition of domestic wastes is a
minor contributor to the overall problem of methane emissions into the atmosphere, with emissions from
animals and natural decomposition of vegetable matter likely to be the main sources of emissions.
Nevertheless, the proper disposal of waste in regulated landfill together with the capture and flaring of
the gas is a step in the overall movement towards control of greenhouse gas emissions and so the
effect is assessed as positive.
Improvement to Overall Air Quality of Closure of the Existing Sites

With the development of the new sanitary landfill facility it is proposed that the existing dump site at
Yatta will be closed. At present, waste burning occurs at many illegal dump sites. Thick smoke, and the
emission of potentially harmful combustion products, are associated with these dump sites. Smoke and
fumes from burning waste have commonly been the subject of complaints by local residents adjacent to
the illegal dump sites.
Upon closure of the illegal dump sites the burning of MSW will cease, alleviating one of the most visible
and potent impacts of open dumping. Burning of waste will not be permitted at the new landfill and
hence, the cessation of burning will result in a positive impact on the overall air quality in the region. This
improvement in air quality is assessed to be of moderate significance.
٧.٢.٣ Summary of Mitigated Impacts
A summary of the significance of the potential air quality impacts from the Project proposals relating to
disposal of MSW is presented in Table 7.2
.
Table 7.2: Summary of Potential Air Quality Impacts
Potential Impact Mitigation/ Positive or Residual

Management Negative Impact
Proposed
Odor impacts from site activities Yes - Slight
- 52 -
Dust generated from on-site vehicle movements and Yes - Slight
placement of waste and cover material
Vehicle exhaust emissions on-site No - Slight
Dust and emissions from construction activities Yes - Slight
Effects from emission of greenhouse gases Yes + Moderate
Improved air quality at existing dump sites Yes + Significant
٧.٢.٤ Summary of Mitigation Measures
Measures to mitigate odor impacts from site activities.

Specified procedures for sanitary landfilling include a range of measures intended to provide effective
control of odor during waste deposition, primarily the disposal of waste in small well-defined cells, the
compaction of waste and the application of odor-prove cover materials to prevent prolonged exposure of
vulnerable wastes to the atmosphere. These measures will be implemented on site as routine
operational practice. In addition, any particularly odorous wastes shall be buried immediately within
previously deposited waste and covered.
Measures to control dust generated from on-site vehicle movements and the placement of waste
and cover materials:
• compaction of the deposited and application of cover material;
Measures to mitigate dust and emissions from construction activities.

A variety of measures to reduce the potential impacts will be employed, including covering of stockpiles
of friable materials in order to reduce the potential for windblown dust; damping down of site roads,
supplies of water permitting; early construction of the wheel wash and mandatory use for all vehicles
leaving the site.
Measures to mitigate air quality impacts from vehicle emissions.

At the start of site construction works, these impacts can be minimized through the use of modern, well-
maintained and regularly serviced vehicles, scheduled to operate, as far as is practicable, outside of
peak traffic periods.
Measures to reduce emission of greenhouse gases

Active degasifying of the landfill to obtain a high landfill gas collection rate. The gas will be directed to a
landfill gas flare where the gas will be incinerated at temperatures of about 1,200° C. The possible use
of the extracted gas for electricity or heat generation.
Measures to improve air quality at existing dump sites

Improved management (to prevent waste burning and fires), daily covering of waste and eventual
closure and sealing of the sites (to prevent odor).
٧.٣ Noise Impacts
٧.٣.١ Construction Noise
The Landfill Site
- 53 -
Construction activities will take place across the whole of the site at some stage during the lifetime of the
project. In general the impact of construction noise will depend on:
• the proximity of construction activities to noise sensitive receivers (NSRs);
• the specific heavy plant and equipment deployed; and
• the length of time over which construction works are undertaken.
The nearest NSRs are houses in al-Menya village.
Typical noise emissions from various construction equipment that may be used at the project site are
summarized in Table 7.3.
Table 7.3: Typical Noise Emissions of Construction Equipment
Equipment Typical Noise Levels in dB(A) at various distances from the source
15 m 30 m 60 m 120 m 240 m
Air Compressor 75-87 69-81 63-75 57-69 51-63
Backhoe 71-92 65-87 59-81 53-75 47-69
Compactor 72 66 60 54 48
Concrete Mixer 75-88 69-82 63-76 57-70 51-64
Front Loader 72-81 66-75 60-69 54-63 48-58
Power Generator 72-82 66-76 60-70 54-64 48-58
Grader 80-93 74-87 68-81 62-75 56-69
Pumps 70-90 64-84 56-78 50-72 44-66
Stone Crusher 85-95 79-89 73-83 67-77 61-74
Tractors, Dozers 78-95 72-89 66-83 60-77 54-74
Trucks 83-93 77-87 71-81 65-75 59-69
Concrete Vibrator 68-81 62-75 56-69 50-63 44-57
The most significant period of construction activity will be during the initial site infrastructure works, to be
undertaken over a period of 6 to 9 months from the start of site construction. Construction works will be
undertaken at the margin of the project site, generally at a minimum distance of >500 m from NSRs,
although the access to the site and the development of the site access road itself, may be only >1000 m
from the closest approach (see Section 3.5 for alternative access road alignments).
Effective noise management protocols to be implemented as part of the project proposals include:
• planting of buffer trees and shrubs where appropriate;
• locating stationary equipment that is noisy as far as possible from the NSRs;
• orienting equipment with high directivity to emit noise away from NSRs;
• use of temporary noise baffles and noise fencing during the construction of the site access road
adjacent if necessary to protect adjacent NSRs;
• switching off unnecessary or idle equipment;
• fitting of noise mufflers to mobile plant and equipment; and
• preventative maintenance of equipment to minimize noise emissions.
Notwithstanding these measures, construction work will be limited to daytime periods, thus avoiding the
night-time which is the most noise-sensitive.
In the light of the prevailing low ambient noise levels in the area surrounding the project site, it is
inevitable that some noise disturbance will be experienced, particularly during the initial construction
phase. However, the noise will not interrupt sleep (because there will be no activity at night), nor is the
level at the NSR sufficient to disrupt normal activity (conversation, listening to radio etc). Moreover the
effect will be short-lived because construction will soon move from the edges of the site to other
locations which may be up to two kilometers away. Such impacts, are, therefore, assessed to be of
minimal significance.
- 54 -
The extent of construction work at the transfer station is relatively minor. Amid the ambient noise of the
industrial zone, no noise impact is expected.
٧.٣.٢ Operational Noise
The Landfill Site

Sources of operational noise from the landfill site will include:
• movement of refuse collection vehicles on the site and along the site access road;
• crushing of construction debris to provide site road and cover materials;
• deposition, leveling and compaction of waste;
• placement of waste and daily cover material; and
• site capping and restoration..
On the whole, operational noise will be at a lower level than construction noise although still above
prevailing baseline conditions. Operational noise will have less impact than construction noise on NSRs
for the following principal reasons:
• mobile plant equipment tends to be used singly, with multiple use of mobile plant equipment is
restricted to short time periods, unlike construction activities;
• landfilling activities are mobile and not fixed in that they move across the landfill footprint.
Therefore, no area is subjected to the operation of the dozer and/or track loader, for example, for
long continuous periods of time; and
• all site screening measures will be in place in advance of the start of site operations.
The increased noise level as a result of operational activities is considered to be negative and of
moderate significance.

The sources of noise when the transfer station is operational are :
• the traffic
• dropping of waste into the hopper
• operation of compactor.
The expected traffic load addition is approximately 50 cycles. Adding the other sources, the highest
level of noise will not exceed 65 dB (A). The NSR is at a distance of around 200 m at which range the
noise will not be perceptible above background and, therefore, no noise impact is expected.
٧.٣.٣ Movement of RCVs
Truck noise and exhaust emissions are noticed by residents or other road users when a collection truck
is temporarily static with the engines till running. During every working day such situations occur
numerous times especially during the collection and emptying of a communal container into the
compactor truck. Specifically, where a number of containers are placed in one spot, the noise, smell and
vehicle exhaust emissions can reach levels that could be irritating for residents. New collection trucks
supplied as part of the project will meet EURO 2 standards with respect to vehicle noise emissions and
exhaust emissions to air. However, it is inevitable that during enhanced levels of collection service
provision that noise levels and vehicle exhaust emissions will increase.
In line with the assessment of traffic impacts below, the overall contribution of the waste collection fleet
to vehicle noise and exhaust emissions is considered to be minor. In a regional context, the impact is
assessed to be negative but of minimal significance. On a local scale, however, it is likely that such
impacts may be regarded as moderate but will transient (temporary) and reversible in nature.
- 55 -
Summary of Noise Impacts
A summary of the significance of the potential noise impacts arising from the project proposals is
presented in Table 7.4.
Table 7.4: Summary of Potential Noise Impacts
Potential Impact Mitigation/ Positive or Residual Impact

Management Negative
Proposed
Noise arising from construction of the landfill Yes - Slight
and transfer station
Noise arising from site operations Yes - Slight
Noise from Vehicle Movement Yes - Slight
٧.٣.٤ Summary of Mitigation Measures
Measures to minimize construction noise

• use of temporary noise baffles and noise fencing during the construction of the site access road
adjacent if necessary to protect adjacent NSRs;
• fitting of noise mufflers to mobile plant and equipment;
Measures to minimize operational noise

• mobile plant equipment will be used singly, with multiple use of mobile plant equipment is restricted
to short time periods, unlike construction activities;
• landfilling activities will be mobile and not fixed in that they move across the landfill footprint.
Therefore, no area is subjected to the operation of the dozer and/or track loader, for example, for
long continuous periods of time; and
Measures to reduce traffic noise

As a matter of routine it is considered good practice to use only modern, well-maintained and regularly
serviced vehicles in order to minimize the potential negative impacts of increased traffic flows.
٧.٤ Potential Aesthetic Impacts
٧.٤.١ Introduction
This section describes the potential aesthetic impacts associated with the proposed landfill, the transfer
station and the closure of the existing waste dumps. These effects arise from the visual and landscape
impacts of the change in appearance of the sites and the presence or absence of litter and wind-blown
detritus.
٧.٤.٢ The Landfill Site
Visual Amenity
The design of the landfill has had to incorporate a balance between the functional requirements of the
infrastructure with the landscape of the neighborhood. Olive plantations form the dominant landscape to
the north and the west of the proposed location. There is even a small olive plantation to the east of the
- 56 -
landfill. The compound of the landfill will have to be fenced to prevent unauthorized persons from
entering the site. To avoid a visually intrusive impact on the surroundings, active landscaping will be
practiced. Shade trees will therefore be planted behind the fence, of similar varieties to those that
farmers in al-Menya have planted on their farmyards and buffer zones, including tree and shrub belts,
will be used to screen operations. In addition, the operational practices proposed for the site incorporate
a number of specific proposals to mitigate visual impacts including:
• compaction and covering of waste following deposition;
• organized waste disposal using cellular methods of filling;
• a complete ban on the burning of waste materials on site;
• installation of site perimeter fencing to control litter blow at the site margin; and
• use of portable litter fences around the active cell to reduce litter blow.
Notwithstanding such measures it is impossible to screen all of the site activities, particularly once the
filling progresses to an elevation above the crest of the rockfill dams. However, direct lines of sight to the
landfill area are few, with only the two dwellings east-south-east of the site being in close proximity to
the landfill footprint. In this location filling will proceed away from the dwellings in order to minimize the
visibility of site operations.
Landscape Character
The project proposals comprise the construction of the following site infrastructure:
• paved access road;
• waste reception area and associated office and maintenance buildings; leachate storage pond; and
• two rockfill dams.
Project proposals incorporate substantial provision to plant tree and shrub belts in the buffer zones on
the margins of the site. Nevertheless the development constitutes a long-term change to the rural
character of the immediate project area, although such elements occupy less than 2 % of the overall
project site area.
The engineered landfill will be filled and restored at a level that is broadly conformable with the elevation
of the surrounding hillsides, although it will be up to 50 m above the floor of the remaining parts of the
northern valley. It is proposed to restore the side slopes of the site at a gradient of I in 4 (vertical to
horizontal) (approximately 140), again conformable with the existing valley side slopes. The final
restoration profile proposed is assessed to be in character with the existing landscape and to give rise to
a landform that is consistent with the prevailing topography. Accordingly, it is assessed that there will be
no impacts in this respect upon restoration of the site.
٧.٤.٣ The Transfer Station
The transfer station appearance is generally in conformity with the surrounding industrial setting. No
visual or landscape impacts are expected as a result of its structure or appearance. These is some
potential however, for visual impact if litter and wind-blown detritus is allowed to accumulate on site and
to be blown onto adjacent premises. It is proposed to construct a 2.5 m high fence made of solid (non-
transparent) material along the boundaries of the transfer station. This will prevent littering and waste
being blown out of the site during strong wind. It will also screen site activities from neighbors and
passers-by and minimize noise. In addition, a buffer zone will be developed around the facility in which
trees and bushes shall be planted.
٧.٤.٤ The Wider Project Area
The existing dump sites, particularly the Yatta Landfill are unsightly, due to waste burning, litter and the
general disorganized distribution of waste around the sites. The closure and restoration of these sites to
their natural conditions is assessed to have a positive impact of high significance.
- 57 -
As noted above there will be more waste collection points across the project area and, in some areas,
increased collection frequencies, both of which will result in more of the existing waste stream being
collected and removed from the community. The siting of the waste collection containers requires some
sensitivity towards the character of the particular locations. Also, street sweeping, litter prevention
initiatives and enforcement of measures to prohibit waste burning will also minimize visual impacts
throughout the Governorates. The visual impacts of the project proposals are considered, therefore, to
be positive and of moderate significance.
Summary of Impacts
A summary of the significance of the potential visual/landscape impacts arising from the project
proposals is presented in Table 7.5.
Table 7.5: Summary of Potential Aesthetic Impacts

Proposed
Effects of site operations upon visual amenity Yes - Minimal
Change in landscape character from site Yes - Minimal
construction
Improvement in visual amenity upon closure of Yes + High
the existing dumps
Permanent change in landscape upon site Yes + None
restoration
٧.٤.٥ Summary of Mitigation Measures
Measures to avoid impacts on visual amenity

Active landscaping will be practiced. Shade trees will be planted behind the boundary fences using
similar tree varieties to those in the surroundings. The operational practices will incorporate measures
to reduce litter, and smoke. There will be organized waste disposal using cellular methods of filling.
Sites will be tidy.
Measures to avoid changes in landscape character from site construction

Perimeter fencing will be put up at all sites to be developed. Buffer zones, including tree and shrub
belts, will be used to screen operations.
Measures to improve visual amenity upon closure of the existing sites

Closure and remediation of sites. New waste management procedures including street sweeping, litter
prevention initiatives and enforcement of measures to prohibit waste burning waste. Training of waste
company staff in sensitive siting of waste collection containers.
Measures to avoid change in the landscape upon site restoration

The final restoration of the landfill site in character with the existing landscape and with a landform that
is consistent with the prevailing topography.
٧.٥ Roads and Traffic Impacts
٧.٥.١ The Landfill Site
Approximate road travel distances between the proposed landfill and Hebron and Bethlehem are 24-29
km and 14-20 km respectively; it is anticipated that RCVs would take 40 minutes to reach the site from
- 58 -
the transfer station in Hebron and 25 minutes from Bethlehem. All waste disposal vehicles will need to
access the site via the Highway 60.
It is anticipated that the peak hours for truck arrivals at the site will be between 11:00 and 13:00 hours
each day, with peak hourly flows between 13 and 16 RCVs per hour (26-32 truck movements per hour).
The waste delivery traffic represents an increase of between 5 % and 10 % compared to existing very
light traffic flows.
As a proportion of the ‘slow-moving’ vehicles, the waste delivery traffic to the site represents an increase
of between c. 30 % and 60 %. Whilst this increase is, numerically, quite large, it is not anticipated that
there will be any significant impact on the speed of road users or the capacity of the road. On the road
from Bethlehem to the landfill, the maximum number of RCVs will be on the road between 10:00-1 3:00.
This will not significantly increase the number or slow down the speed of the road users, as the number
of trucks during these hours was surveyed as 45 to 80.
The potential for impacts on the roads and traffic at the proposed landfill sites arises from the need for
the large waste transfer vehicles to access the site. The projected traffic load for the waste
transportation, is about 70-120 truck of different sizes per day. Assuming optimum conditions, we can
assume 8 trips per day of the hauling trucks (40 ton capacity) from Hebron proposed transfer station to
the proposed landfill and about 40-60 trucks, of different sizes, from other communities of the remaining
project area. Highway # 60 can easily accommodate this load but the movement of such a number of
trucks will cause noise pollution, block local movement and pose a health and safety risk on the local
roads leading to the site through al-Menya.
In order to mitigate the effect on the people of al-Menya, an alternative road section has been included
into the project design. Instead of turning at the al-Menya junction, trucks will be routed to the right
through al-Rashaydeh road. Then, close to the area of demolished housing at al-Rashaydeh, an
alternative road section of 400 meter length will be constructed along the unplanted area, avoiding any
damage to the olive trees. This will reduce any impacts on the residents around the site to slight.
٧.٥.٢ The Transfer Station
The access road running alongside the transfer station has a capacity of around 4,000 vehicles per day.
The recent traffic load is estimated to be around several hundred cycles per hour at peak times. Thus
the road has a lot of spare capacity. Operation of the transfer station will add around 50 cycles per day
(see above) and will constitute a very slight influence on the expected traffic load versus the traffic
capacity of the road.
Some impact could be caused when the vehicles slow to turn into the site. The transfer station design
therefore includes separate entry and exit connections to the main road and a merging lane to allow
vehicles leaving the site to enter the traffic stream more easily.
٧.٥.٣ The Wider Project Area
Traffic Congestion
Collection vehicles serving as waste transfer vehicles to the landfill will stop only at the designated
transfer points, typically located off the main roads, and will not delay normal road traffic. In the urban
areas, the total collection fleet, particularly in the bigger cities like Hebron, Halhul and Bethlehem, will be
reduced since there is currently over capacity. In addition, a waste collection and waste haulage traffic
management plan will be implemented in order to schedule vehicles to the optimum time of the day.
The existing waste collection fleet accounts for an estimated 0.1% to 0.2% of total road traffic
movements. Accordingly, the comparatively small increase in the overall collection fleet is not
considered to be significant when viewed against the overall growth in vehicular traffic, conservatively
- 59 -
estimated at 5% per annum. Overall, it is anticipated that potentially adverse traffic impacts will be of
minimal significance.
Impacts from Vehicle Emissions and Noise

The projected growth of traffic would increase in exhaust emissions and noise from waste delivery
vehicles and trucks conveying material to the transfer station and landfill sites. Since the project
proposals result in only very small increases in total traffic flows, compared to those resulting from other
developments, it may be concluded that the impact of project proposals on air quality, and noise
although negative, is of minimal significance. Any negative impacts will be minimized through the use of
modern, well-maintained and regularly serviced vehicles, scheduled to operate, as far as is practicable,
outside of peak traffic periods. This will be facilitated by the supply of new modern collection equipment
that will conform to EURO 2 performance standards.
The projected increase of traffic noted above would generate additional noise along the principal
haulage routes. On the basis that the project proposals result in only very small increases in total traffic
flows, compared to those resulting from other developments, it may be concluded that the impact of
project proposals on off-site noise, although negative, is of minimal significance. As a matter of routine it
is considered good practice to use only modern, well-maintained and regularly serviced vehicles in order
to minimize the potential negative impacts of increased traffic flows.
Littering and Cleanliness During Waste Transit

Waste delivered to the project site will be enclosed either in a RCV or haulage container or will be
covered by tarpaulin, sheet or netting (in the case of open bulk-loaded containers). This practice will
ensure that waste materials do not spill onto public roads. The site management principles incorporated
in the project proposals endorse this practice and require that it is enforced rigorously, regardless of the
source of the waste delivered to the site. In this respect the project proposals are assessed to have no
impact.
Summary of Impacts
A summary of the significance of the potential off-site traffic impacts arising from the project proposals is
Table 7.6: Summary of Potential Off-site Traffic Impacts

Management Negative
Proposed
Increased traffic loading and traffic Yes - Slight
congestion
Air quality impacts from vehicle No - Slight
emissions
Traffic noise No - Slight
Littering and cleanliness during waste Yes + Slight
transit
٧.٥.٤ Summary of Mitigation Measures
Measures to prevent increased traffic loading and traffic congestion

• A new road section of 400 meter length will be constructed to provide access to the landfill site
whilst ensuring that trucks avoid the al-Menya junction.
• The road connecting El Masara with Arab Er Rashadyda will be rehabilitated and paved
• The transfer station access will include separate entry and exit connections to the main road and a
merging lane
• RCV routes will be controlled to prevent taking shortcuts on unsuitable roads
- 60 -
Measures to prevent littering during waste transit
Waste delivered to the project site will be enclosed either in a RCV or haulage container or will be
covered by tarpaulin, sheet or netting (in the case of open bulk-loaded containers).
٧.٦ Geology and Soils
٧.٦.١ Introduction
Impacts related to geology may arise due to the location of the landfill site in relation to the seismicity of
the area and the design of the landfill and the stability of its construction. There are also risks related to
cavities in the karstic limestone underneath the site. Impacts on soils may arise when construction or
cover material for the landfill is sourced off-site and when the existing waste dump sites are remediated.
No impacts related to geology or soils are expected as a result of transfer station construction or
operation.
٧.٦.٢ Seismicity
The main geologically disturbed zone is the Dead Sea fault zone located some 19 km away from the site
of the proposed landfill. Geological investigations have revealed that at least one fault crosses the
project site, whilst faults are also known to occur within 300 m to the north and to the south of the landfill
footprint. Discussions with leading seismic authorities in Israel revealed that a reasonable estimate of
the seismic activity magnitude at the site would be around 5.0. The Geophysical Institute of Israel
estimates return frequency of seismic events of Magnitude 5.0 is once per hundred years. Major
earthquake activity in the proximity of the site could result in ground shaking and shearing-induced
displacements along pre-existing faults. In such circumstances the potential impacts at the landfill could
include:
• instability in the waste faces;

• rupture of pipe work; and
• breach of containment measures at the landfill or leachate treatment pond.
Of these potential impacts, a breach in leachate containment is the potentially the most significant
environmental risk.
The impacts from potential seismic activity cannot be completely mitigated in the landfill development.
Nevertheless, all practicable engineering and operational mitigation measures have been incorporated
into the landfill design in order to minimize any potential impact from seismic activity and any associated
fault displacement. These include:
• Locating any leachate sumps and the zone of maximum leachate accumulation as far away from a
possible fault plane as possible;
• grading of the landfill bed and basal lining system to drain away from the fault zone, with the lowest
point of the landfill bed away from the fault plane as far as practicable - the highest point of the cell
is designed to be coincident with the location of the fault plane. This and the first measure ensure
that leachate accumulation does not occur in the vicinity of the fault plane;
• as far as practicable the landfill footprint has avoided the inferred position of a possible fault plane.
Where the footprint crosses the inferred alignment of a fault plane, this occurs on the steeply-
sloping southern flank of the eastern valley, at a level significantly above the zone of leachate
accumulation;
• installation of a leachate collection system that is highly permeable and will promote rapid leachate
flow to the collection pond to the north of the landfill footprint. This, allied with strict operational
controls, is designed to limit leachate levels to as low as practicable, generally of the order of 0.5 m;
• capping of the landfill upon completion of filling in order to minimize further leachate production
which, in turn, would reduce the potential impact of any breach in containment should this occur.
- 61 -
Overall, the potential impact of seismic activity in the areas away from the fault zone is considered to be
similar to that in other parts of the Hebron District. The potential impact from seismic activity and fault
plane displacement on the proposed landfill development is negative and considered to be of minimal
significance.
٧.٦.٣ Slope Stability
In terms of cost-effectiveness of landfilling, it is preferable to maximize the available void space (within
geotechnical and geometrical constraints) and minimize the area of the landfill footprint. Steeper slopes
can lead to slope instability and associated risk of loss of containment and visual impacts. The design
of the landfill has considered the stability issues surrounding landfill development, including both landfill
and valley flank slope stability.
Measures incorporated into the project design include:

• maximum landfill bed slopes of lv:3h;
• construction of embankment dams at the north and east boundaries of the landfill footprint which
act as a counterweight to the load imposed by the fill materials;
• use of existing valley side slopes to contain deposited waste elsewhere on the site;
• maximum slope on the restored landfill surface of lv:4h;
• maximum cut slopes in bedrock of 10v:lh;
• maximum fill of embankment slopes of I v:2h;
• a phased and progressive sequence of filling, with individual waste lifts no greater than 2.5 m thick;
• temporary waste slopes no greater than lv:2h and limited to a maximum height of 15 m. Such
slopes are assumed to be benched every 5 m vertical height.
On the basis of the above, potential impacts arising from slope stability are considered to be of minimal
significance only.
٧.٦.٤ Cavities in the Limestone Underlying the Site
There are cavities of various sizes in the karstic limestone underneath the site. If one of the caverns
collapses as result of the load of the waste body there is a risk of damage to the landfill base seal. This
risk depends on both the depth as well as the size of the cavities. If the total height of all cavities
amounts to about 30 cm and the thickness of the overlying (compacted) limestone amounts to more
than 3 m, no damages on the base sealing system will be expected, since limestone has the effect of an
arch. An additional risk is that if cavities fill with landfill gas, there is a danger of explosion.
The risks posed by cavities will be addressed as follows. Additional soil investigations are being
contracted to better define the extent of such cavities and recommend detailed design measures to be
included in the bidding documents and include them in the contract to safeguard the stability of the
landfill foundation. Tests will be undertaken for big cavities on the site to find out how many of them are
present and at what depth. If the geophysical investigations indicate that a cavity may be present, a test
drilling on that location will be required to confirm the presence of a (shallow) cavity. In case the
presence of a large cavity is indeed confirmed by the drilling, then this cavity will be filled with
appropriate materials (clay or bentonite) to prevent future collapse of this cavity. This drilling and
injection can be done later in the construction phase (after reaching the final excavated level). This first
run investigation will help to assess the fate of the risk and will help in producing maps that will help to
avoid high risk areas (if proved to exist). This step is also important to locate the leachate pond in the
safest place inside the site.
If no cavities are identified in the above step, then the preparation work on the site can proceed. In this
case, after excavating the site to the actual working ground level, further steps can be undertaken to
avoid any possible problems due to underground cavities. Again shallow geophysical investigations
- 62 -
(seismic/geo-electrical/electro-magnetic) on the base of the landfill will be undertaken, to identify
potential cavities directly under the surface (up to a depth of about 3 m). If the second round of
geophysical investigations indicates that a cavity might exist, then a test drilling on that location will be
required to confirm the presence of a (shallow) cavity. In case this presence is indeed confirmed by the
drilling, then this cavity needs to be filled up with appropriate materials (clay or bentonite) to prevent
future collapse of this cavity. Next the construction of the landfill can be completed.
٧.٦.٥ Off-site Sourcing of Landfill Earthwork Materials
Site engineering works make a large demand on the importation of materials sourced from off-site. As
far as practicable, materials won from the site will be used in landfill construction (e.g. rockfill dam
construction). However, it may be necessary to import materials in order to construct the capping
layers. In addition, for leachate drainage, there is a requirement to use non-carbonate sources of
granular materials in order to avoid the potential blockage of the leachate collection system from re-
precipitated calcium carbonate.
Wherever practicable and affordable, the landfill design has adopted a pragmatic approach, combining
the use of natural materials that are available locally with the use of geosynthetic components that will
have to be imported from abroad. Even so, it is estimated that there is a requirement to import around
3
312,000 m of clay, sand and gravel throughout the life of the project. Much of the materials required are
available locally, as confirmed through inquiries made of local contractors, although at this stage in
project development it is not yet possible to determine from which precise sources the materials would
be derived.
Assessment of suitability of sites will be undertaken before sourcing construction materials and close
cooperation will be maintained with EQA who are responsible for approval and permitting to ensure
that environmental impacts at the borrow sites are kept to a minimum. Accordingly, the assessed
significance of this potential impact is considered to be minimal to moderate.
Summary of Potential Geological and Geotechnical Impacts

A summary of the potential impacts arising from site geology and geo-technical properties are presented
in Table 7.7.
- 63 -
Table 7.7: Summary of Potential Geological and Geotechnical Impacts

Management Negative
Proposed
Impacts from seismic activity Yes - Slight
Impacts from slope instability No - Slight
Risks from cavities in the limestone Yes - Slight
underlying the site
Impacts at the off-site sources of Yes - Slight
construction materials
٧.٦.٦ Summary of Mitigation Measures
Measures to mitigate risks from seismic activity

• Locating leachate accumulation away from fault planes
• Grading the landfill bed to drain away from the fault zone
Measures to mitigate risks associated with cavities underlying the site

• Shallow geophysical investigations to find out how many cavities and at what depth
• Test drilling to confirm the presence of a (shallow) cavity
• Large cavities filled with appropriate materials to prevent future collapse
• Production of maps that will help to avoid high risk areas
Measures to mitigate impacts at off-site sources of construction materials

• Storing materials won from the site for later used in landfill construction and cover
• Assessment of suitability of sites before sourcing construction materials and compliance with
permitting procedure
٧.٧ Hydrogeology, Hydrology and Water Quality
٧.٧.١ Introduction
This Section discusses the significance of potential hydrogeological, hydrological and water quality
impacts associated with project proposals. There are four potentially significant impact areas
associated with the construction and operation of both the proposed landfill and the transfer station as
follows.
• Contamination of water resources by leachate

• Alteration of Surface Water Regime
• Increased sediment load of surface water
• Surface water contamination by fuel spillage
The potentially beneficial effects of closing the existing waste dumps, particularly the site at Yatta will
also be considered.
٧.٧.٢ Contamination of Water Resources from Leachate Emissions
The Landfill Site

Geological data for the landfill site indicate that it is located above strata of the Upper Aquifer. Marls and
marlstones are recorded immediately beneath the proposed landfill bed in the northern valley. These
deposits form part of the Senonian chalk and chert transition beds which, generally are regarded as an
aquitard on the basis of their comparatively low mass permeability.
- 64 -
As discussed in Section 6.4, the Upper Aquifer supplies water for domestic use in the region, the
lithology and structural properties of the beds forming the Upper Aquifer provide significant potential for
rapid groundwater flow and, at the same time, afford little opportunity for contaminant attenuation. As
such, the Upper Aquifer underlying the landfill site is sensitive although its vulnerability to contamination
is unlikely to be great due to:
• the considerable depth to groundwater from which domestic and potable supplies are extracted;
and
• the low groundwater recharge potential in the immediate vicinity of the site as a consequence of the
outcropping of low permeability Senonian deposits in the immediate vicinity.
Nevertheless, in consideration of the potential sensitivity of the groundwater beneath the site, and in
accordance with international norms and good practice, the design for the landfill has specified several
integral engineering mitigation measures in order to minimize any potential contamination from leachate.
Accordingly, a leachate containment, collection and treatment system is a fundamental component of
the engineering measures proposed, comprising:
• the installation of two basal lining systems in the zone of leachate accumulation, both designed to
meet a maximum permeability specification that is lower than 1 x 10-7 ms;
• the use of a double lining system, comprising two HDPE layers which, in will provide a robust and
well proven barrier layer inhibiting uncontrolled leachate seepage;
• the provision of a high permeability leachate collection and transfer system to facilitate the
collection of leachate percolating through waste materials and to drain leachate from the landfill in
order to prevent a build-up of leachate within the body of the deposited waste;
• the provision of a leachate treatment pond and re-circulation facilities and equipment to promote the
evaporation of any collected leachate, in order to reduce leachate quantities and leachate strength;
• an operational and leachate management policy that is based on not discharging any leachate off-
3
site. Anticipated leachate volumes are 30 m per day or less - these volumes can be managed
easily within the treatment/storage pond provided on site.
• In emergencies temporary storage of leachate can also be provided in tanks or within the landfill;
and
• the adoption of routine operational measures to minimize leachate generation and the volumes of
leachate to be treated, including control of surface water run-on, cellular filling and the adoption of
re-circulation to dry absorptive waste.
When these measures have been adopted, the risk of leachate seepage to groundwater will be
extremely low. In order to ensure that leachate emissions do not occur at any stage, the following
measures will also be implemented as part of the project development:
• the employment of experienced sub-contractors to install the geosynthetic components of the basal
composite lining system;
• high standards of construction quality assurance during installation of the basal lining system and
the leachate collection system, monitored by an experienced expatriate technical advisor to be
employed by the JSC;
• pro-active control over leachate levels within the landfill during site operation;
• regular monitoring of leachate levels within each sub-area of the landfill to ensure no unforeseen
build-up of leachate over the basal lining system; and
• monitoring of any leachate breakthrough between the double liners at the downs lope side of inter-
liner drainage measures.
With the implementation of all of the above protective measures the potential impact of leachate
emissions is considered to be of minimal significance. Recommended monitoring requirements are
discussed further in Section 9.
- 65 -
No waste will be stored at the transfer station for longer than a few days. The potential for groundwater
contamination by leachate, therefore arises only from the possibility that water comes into contact with
waste being unloaded, in temporary storage, or that has been spilled on site. Furthermore, any
contaminated water will be unable to penetrate through the surfaces of the facility, which will be paved
with double layer of asphalt concrete or reinforced concrete. To catch water running off the site the
slope of the surfaces will be 1.5-2% for fast flow to catch points. The distance between catch points will
be 20 m or less. The probability of infiltration through the paved surface, in case of cracks in the
surface, is insignificant. Water from the catch points will be directed to the public sewer. The possibility
of contamination will be minimized by good site management practices (necessary in any case to
minimize odor and litter).
Beside, the transfer station is located in an arid area and the groundwater level is several hundred
meters below the ground surface.
The Wider Project Area

All of the existing waste disposal sites have been operating without lining or proper containment of the
leachate. This presents a large threat to surface water bodies and ground water. At Yatta site, in
particular, leachates are seen in the adjacent wadis and in winter, flood water washes out huge
3
quantities of leachate (estimated at 14,000-20,000 m ). The soils and sediments in the wadis are a dark
color indicating pollution by leachates Impacts of the existing waste disposal sites on water resources is
therefore severely negative. The closure and remediation of such sites will be of significant benefit.
٧.٧.٣ Alteration of Surface Water Regime
The Landfill Site

There are no permanent water courses draining through the landfill site, although it is anticipated that,
during high intensity rainfall events or periods of high cumulative rainfall, there will be storm water flow
along the southeastern valley. The landfill development will constitute a barrier to these flows,
potentially resulting in the backing up of water on the upstream side of the landfill. The landfill design
includes, therefore, a series of engineering measures to prevent the ponding of water and to provide
uninterrupted flow of storm water. These comprise drainage ditches to divert surface water around and
under the proposed landfill, all sized to accommodate the storm water flows anticipated for a 1:100 year
return period rainfall event. The ultimate drainage outfall from the site area and the catchment upstream
of the landfill site will therefore be unaltered, that is the project proposals will not:
• alter the quantities of surface water draining through the northern valley;
• alter the speed at which surface run-off is generated within the site area; nor
• alter the water storage capacity of the soils within the project site.
Accordingly the impact of the landfill development on the surface water regime is assessed to be of no
significance unless maintenance of the surface drainage channels is neglected, at which time the
potential exists for impedance of surface water flows draining the catchment area upstream of the site.

Since the area around the transfer station is developed as part of an industrial zone, there is no potential
to disrupt the natural water regime. There will be a drainage ditch around the perimeter of the facility,
but its main purpose will be to divert run-off from operational areas to reduce the potential for leachate
generation.
٧.٧.٤ Increased Sediment Load of Surface Water
The Landfill Site
- 66 -
Site preparation and construction activities will only take place during the construction phase as the
whole landfill will be engineered at one time. Further operational activities such as winning and applying
of cover materials throughout the lifetime of the landfill can cause emission of suspended sediments.
Although the negative impact of such a dispersion of fine dust is rather limited, it can even be reduced
by the following engineering measures:
• stripping of soil materials in advance of landfill bed preparation;
• placement in, and retrieval of soils from, material stockpiles;
• excavation of rock and grading of landfill bed;
• placement of basal lining systems and leachate drainage layers; and
• placement of landfill cap and cover materials.
Each of these activities has the potential to generate large quantities of loose and potentially erodible
soil that could be transported off-site during storm water flows. The Contractor’s Construction Method
Statements and the Operator’s Site Operational Plan should incorporate a series of routine measures to
prevent the transfer of suspended sediment off-site. Specific measures recommended in the
Environmental Management Plan are set out in Section 9.
In view of the infrequent surface water flows in the project area, this potential impact is assessed to be
of minimal significance.
The Transfer Station Site

In the same way that the transfer station has limited potential to disrupt the water regime (see above), it
will have no potential to increase sediment loading. Sediment trapped in the catch points and drainage
ditch will be removed during routine cleaning and maintenance.
٧.٧.٥ Contamination of Water Resources by Fuel Spillage
Potential exists for fuel/lubricant spillage in any area where activities such as vehicle refueling, repair
and maintenance are undertaken and in any areas where fuels are stored in significant quantities. The
risk is greater at the landfill site, because the transfer station site area will be completely paved. The
measures needed to avoid any such impacts are similar however and include:
• the storm water and all other site drainage systems, including those serving the maintenance repair
bays, refueling areas etc should incorporate oil/water interceptors and traps that are cleaned
regularly.
• all maintenance and refueling areas are covered with hardstanding (concrete or asphalt) and that
refueling of vehicles does not take place anywhere else on site;
• all fuels or chemicals stored on site are placed on a paved surface and surround by a bund of
appropriate height to capture fuel that may be released in case of tank failure.
With such protective measures in place, it is considered unlikely that there would be any significant
uncontrolled releases of fuel oils to the surrounding environment. Accordingly, it is considered that this
potential impact is of minimal significance.
Summary of Impacts
The assessed significance of the potential hydrogeological, hydrological, and water quality impacts is
Table 7.8: Summary of Potential Hydrogeological, Hydrological and Water Quality Impacts
- 67 -
Proposed
Contamination of water resources from project Yes - Slight
leachate emissions
Cessation of contamination of water resources from Yes + Significant
existing disposal sites
Alteration of surface water regime Yes - Slight
Increased suspended sediment loading from site No - Slight
preparation activities
Contamination of water resources by fuel spillage Yes - Slight
٧.٧.٦ Summary of Mitigation Measures
Groundwater quality protection measures

The project design recognizes the potential adverse effects of leachate emissions from the site on
groundwater resources. Accordingly, the development of a leachate containment, collection and
treatment system is a fundamental component of the engineering measures proposed, comprising:
• the installation of two HDPE lining systems in the zone of leachate accumulation, both designed to
meet the maximum permeability specification
• the provision of a high permeability leachate collection and transfer system to facilitate the
collection of leachate percolating through waste materials and to drain leachate from the landfill in
order to prevent a build-up of leachate within the body of the deposited waste;
• the provision of a leachate treatment pond and re-circulation facilities and equipment to promote the
evaporation of any collected leachate, in order to reduce leachate quantities and leachate strength;
• an operational and leachate management policy that is based on not discharging any leachate off-
site.
• the adoption of routine operational measures to minimize leachate generation, including control of
surface water run-on, cellular filling and the adoption of re-circulation to dry absorptive waste.
Measures to stop water pollution from existing sites

Remediation of existing sites which will involve the following:
• re-opening and cleaning of the wadis with sediment removal
• construction of diversion channels for runoff water
• construction of retaining walls around the perimeter
• covering with a liner (fitted underneath the base of the retaining wall)
• dividing the site surface area into smaller catchments that contain gravitational outlets
Mitigation Measures to prevent impacts of surface water flow regimes

The landfill design has incorporated a series of engineering measures in order to prevent the ponding of
water and to provide uninterrupted flow of storm water. The proposed measures comprise drainage
ditches to divert surface water around and under the proposed landfill, all sized to accommodate the
storm water flows anticipated for a 1:100 year return period rainfall event.
Measures to prevent contamination of water resources by fuel spillage

• the storm water and all other site drainage systems, including those serving the maintenance repair
bays, refueling areas etc should incorporate oil/water interceptors and traps that are cleaned
regularly.
• all maintenance and refueling areas are covered with hardstanding (concrete or asphalt)
• refueling of vehicles does not take place anywhere except designated areas;
• all fuels or chemicals stored on site are placed on a paved surface and surround by a bund of
appropriate height to capture fuel that may be released in case of tank failure.
- 68 -
٧.٨ Potential Impacts on Flora and Fauna
٧.٨.١ Introduction
This section describes the range of potential impacts on flora and fauna, both natural wildlife and
domestic and livestock animals, associated with the proposed landfill, the transfer station and the
closure of the existing dumpsites, particularly the site at Yatta.
٧.٨.٢ Biological Habitats
The Landfill Site

The proposed landfill site is devoid of natural vegetation across a large area of the site, with bedrock
outcrops dominating on the valley flanks and agriculture in the valley floor. The review of ecological
conditions at the site revealed no flora or floral assemblages that are unique to the site or are listed as
protected species. Similarly the review revealed no fauna or faunal assemblages that are unique to the
site or are listed as protected species. Nor are there important ecosystems recorded within or in the
immediate vicinity of the project site so there is no potential for severance of wildlife corridors
Birds could be attracted to the landfill and this might impact birds having migratory flight paths passing
through the Southern West Bank area. It has been reported that many species of birds (i.e. sparrows
such as hedge or sun sparrows) used to be observed near the site, but for the last five years only a few
sparrows and partridges could be seen at some times of the year.
Even though there are no rare or endangered species, the noise and daily work of landfill construction
and operation could disturb the area's birds and wild mammals. There might also be direct contact
between birds and animals with waste if they try to feed on it. This could create pollution and
accumulation of contaminants in the food web that forms the terrestrial ecosystem. Daily soil cover and
good operational practice to prevent scattering of waste will prevent these effects.
Project proposals include provision for peripheral shrub and tree belts within the buffer zone around the
landfill footprint, as part of the measures to screen site activities and lessen the potential for significant
environmental impact arising from site operations. The buffer zones will be planted with local native
species of trees and shrubs which will increase substantially the local area occupied by such vegetation.
Habitat will thus be provided for animals particularly birds, reptiles, insects and arachnids.
Also, following completion of infilling activities, the site can be restored for agricultural purposes and/or
for low intensity recreational activities, including parkland. The introduction of an organic loamy soil
(‘topsoil’) will encourage soil organisms to flourish in a site that, currently, is comparatively barren. In
association with the tree and shrubs planted for screening purposes, restoration of the site offers ample
opportunity to create a variety of new habitats which, it is anticipated, will be of ecological benefit to the
local area.

There is no ecological value at or around the transfer station. Planting in the buffer zone will provide
some habitat to urban wildlife, primarily birds but the effect will be negligible.
The Wider Project Area

Project proposals involve the closure of all of the dump sites throughout the service area of the
Governorate. Closure will involve either:
• the complete removal of previously deposited waste;
• the partial removal of large bulky objects;
• the reduction of the area occupied by deposited waste as far as practicable; and/or
• the covering of the residual waste with a layer of debris and soil.
- 69 -
Such measures will not only reduce the polluting potential of the previously deposited waste but also
encourage the return of flora and fauna to areas that are currently barren. Accordingly, project proposals
are considered to be positive.
٧.٨.٣ Domestic Animals and Livestock
The project proposals prohibit domesticated animals from the landfill site and any of the other
associated facilities. However, ample land is available in the immediate vicinity of the site. Until about 5
years ago, the area was intensively used for grazing cattle and feeding sheep and goats. Since then the
area has been too degraded to be used as rangeland point and people who rear animals now have to
provide feed. Among the risks that a landfill could pose on grazing in the neighboring land is the spread
of plastic bags which will kill any livestock and cattle that swallow them.
Proper fencing, good site management and the planting of a green belt buffer zone will help to alleviate
the spreading of the bags by winds. Other risks such as the livestock directly eating waste entering the
landfill, such as vegetables, will be suppressed by making sure the fencing keeps animals out. For this
reason the fence will be set into the ground and fixed on steel pipes of 3 m height and inclined out at the
top by 0.5 m.
- 70 -
Summary of Impacts
A summary of the significance of the potential ecological impacts arising from the project proposals is
Table 7.9: Summary of Potential Ecology Impacts

Management Negative
Proposed
Loss of biological habitats No - Slight
Severance of wildlife corridors No - Slight
Extension of habitats (buffer zones) Yes + Slight
Creation of new habitats (post- Yes + Moderate
restoration)
Domestic animals and livestock Yes + Moderate
٧.٨.٤ Summary of Mitigation Measures
Measures to extend habitats (buffer zones).

Project proposals include provision for peripheral shrub and tree belts within the buffer zone around the
landfill footprint. The buffer zones will be planted with local native species of trees and shrubs. The
additional planting will increase substantially the overall area occupied by trees and shrubs in the
immediate vicinity of the project site.
Measures related to creation of new habitats (post-restoration)

The introduction of an organic loamy soil (‘topsoil’) will encourage soil organisms to flourish in a site that,
currently, is comparatively barren.
Measures to reduce impacts to domestic animals and livestock

• Preventing the spread of plastic bags by proper fencing, good site management and the planting of
a green belt buffer zone
• Preventing the livestock entering the landfill site with a fence that is set into the ground and fixed on
steel pipes of 3 m height and inclined out at the top by 0.5 m.
٧.٩ Health and Safety
٧.٩.١ Introduction
This Section discusses the range of potential health and safety impacts to the public and to the
workforce associated with MSW disposal. Most potential impacts are associated with the disposal sites.
Any impacts that may arise due to transfer and haulage of waste may be controlled by worker health
and safety procedures, which will apply to workers on all aspects of the project. The following therefore
focuses on the waste disposal areas but the management measures apply across all project sites and
activities.
٧.٩.٢ Potential Health Impacts of MSW Disposal
Public health impacts from MSW disposal may include exposure to toxic chemicals through air, water
and soil; exposure to infection and biological contaminants; stress related to odor, noise, vermin and
visual amenity; risk of fires, explosions, subsidence, spills and accidents. In addition increased
incidence of respiratory ailments can be caused by transport emissions and smoke; vermin attracted to
the site (birds, rodents and insects) can act as disease vectors; and, the contamination drinking water by
leachate can cause severe damage in a variety of ways depending on the nature of the contaminant.
- 71 -
Waste pickers face particular risks from direct contact with the waste, especially when, as is usually the
case, they are not wearing protective clothing. The risks to the public and workers are much greater if
hazardous waste is mixed with the MSW. Changes in transport intensities and routes may raise the risk
of accidents and of harm to pedestrians.
In summary, the main impacts on public and worker health and safety associated with the project arise
from the following:
• direct exposure to solid waste, particularly if hazardous waste is present in the MSW
• contamination of potable water with leachate
• exposure to landfill gas
• vermin acting as disease vectors
• risk of traffic accidents caused by increased numbers of vehicle movements.
٧.٩.٣ Assessment and Management of Health and Safety Impacts
Traffic Hazard
The main routes from Bethlehem city and Hebron city to the landfill do not pass through residential
areas. The road is wide and well signed and project vehicles will not significantly increase the volume of
traffic. Movement of vehicles along the main routes to the landfill site will have only minor impacts on
public safety along the route.
A by-pass road will be built to take traffic past al-Menya, so that the refuse trucks will not affect the
safety in the village. A potential short-cut route from Hebron City through the Wadi Siir road to the landfill
site will have negative impacts on safety in Siir city and therefore only compactor trucks from Siir and
Eshuyukih municipality will be allowed to use that route.
Hazardous Waste
The impacts on public health and safety from hazardous waste will be limited by the development and
enforcement of hazardous waste policy. In general hazardous waste from industry will not be accepted
for disposal. Control measures at the transfer station and the landfill will ensure that such waste is not
illicitly dumped. Municipal waste that may have hazardous components and construction waste will
have to be delivered separately to the transfer and landfill sites and glass will be disposed in special
collection containers.
Waste Separation and Handling

Waste separation at the transfer station and landfill potentially has a negative impact on public health
and safety because compacted waste is de-compacted to enable separation. However, the investment
in a disposal container with sorting facilities for semi-manual separation will remove the risks and is
considered to have a positive impact on public health and safety compared to the present situation.
Site Management
Many of the health risks to workers and to the wider public from solid waste disposal can be greatly
reduced or even completely eliminated by good operational practices at the landfill and transfer station
sites. The measures incorporated into project design include:
• strict control over entry and exit to the site;

• measurement documentation and inspection of incoming waste loads;
• defined standard operating procedures for waste discharge and deposition;
• control of vermin, insects and birds by compaction of deposited waste and application of cover
materials in small, clearly-defined operating cells.
Particular attention will be paid to the health and safety of workers at the sites by:
- 72 -
• worker training in safe working methods and good hygiene practices;
• the use of personal protective equipment, as required, when working on-site;
• provision of first aid facilities;
• regular health checks for personnel;
• Emergency Response and Contingency Plans.
Waste Pickers
The health risk to waste pickers from direct contact with wastes is acute due to their lack of protective
gear and prolonged exposure to waste, smoke, dust and vermin. The children and young adults that
frequent the site during school holidays are particularly vulnerable. The project will gradually eliminate
these risks. Waste pickers will not be allowed unsupervised access to project sites. Manual separation
of recyclables will still be allowed in the early phases of the project, but the personnel will have to be
approved by site management and be appropriately equipped and trained. In addition all workers at the
site will benefit from the reduction in smoke, vermin and risk that results from proper operation of SWM
facilities.
Hygiene and Vermin

The adoption of high standards for the disposal of MSW will limit the potential for the development of
resident populations of vermin and pests. However, project proposals are not likely to be able to
eradicate these populations in their entirety, and some will still be attracted to project sites. These pests
will be combated by sanitary measures such as spraying with insecticides, distributing pesticide and rat
poison, and immediate covering of waste fronts with cover materials.
Potential for Exposure to Explosion of Landfill Gas

Landfill gas is a product of the degradation of waste materials under anaerobic conditions (i. e. in the
absence of oxygen). With its high content of methane and toxic and inflammable gases, the generation
of landfill gas poses significant risks to human, animal and plant health and life. The most significant risk
associated with landfill gas arises from its potential to form flammable mixtures with air. If it is allowed to
accumulate in a confined space and there is a source of ignition present, an explosion may result. The
risk is greatest where gas is allowed to build-up in confined spaces, such as within buildings or in
collapsed void spaces within the deposited waste.
In an open area, landfill gas can give rise to ‘flash fires’. The critical concentrations limits within which a
flammable gas will burn (or explode) are known as the ‘Lower Explosive Limit’ (LEL) and ‘Upper
Explosive limit’ (UEL). For methane these are approximately 5% and 15% respectively although they are
modified slightly by the presence of carbon dioxide. Carbon dioxide, the other major constituent of
landfill gas has an adverse effect on respiration and is a hazard to health if it is present in concentrations
in excess of 1.5%. In the open air, for example at the boundary of the landfill, such relatively high levels
of gas normally do not occur because of the effects of dilution and dispersion. Landfill gas may also act
as an asphyxiant (suffocating agent), by displacing air (oxygen), if it accumulates in a confined space.
Lower levels of gas concentration are considered to be indicative of gas migration from the site. For
these situations, it is normal to stipulate two levels of gas concentration that trigger appropriate but
different courses of action. The lower trigger level (threshold level) would identify the occurrence of a
potential landfill gas problem. If concentrations exceed this level more frequent gas monitoring should
be initiated. The higher trigger level (action level) would necessitate appropriate remedial action to
control gas migration. The concentrations proposed for these levels are:
• threshold level - 5% of LEL; and
• action level - 20% of LEL.
In order to minimize the risks to human health from landfill gas, “passive” or “active” landfill gas control
can be used at landfill sites, depending upon the volume of landfill gas generated. An active gas system
is proposed for the project site in view of the relatively large quantities of organic waste that will be
- 73 -
deposited. Vertical gas wells will be installed in the waste progressively as the landfill grows vertically
towards final levels; any gas collected will be flared off using a mobile flare stack. The site containment
measures proposed in the design are designed to minimize the risk of any gas migration off-site.
However, it is essential that a program of landfill gas monitoring is carried out at regular periodic
intervals during and after the working life of the site in order to assess the effectiveness of the gas
control measures in place.
Should landfill gas be detected during routine site surveys, the method of gas control will be reviewed
and, as necessary, the passive gas wells converted to an active gas abstraction system in which gas is
sucked out of the landfill under a vacuum.
Whilst the impacts associated with landfill gas should be minimized by good site operational practices,
there always remains a residual moderate potential for landfill gas impacts, particularly if site
management is not of the highest standard. Accordingly, this impact is considered to be of moderate
significance.
- 74 -
Summary of Impacts
A summary of the significance of the potential health and safety impacts from the MSW disposal
component of the project proposals is presented in Table 7.10.
Table 7.10: Summary of Potential Health and Safety Impacts

Proposed
Direct exposure hazardous material Yes - Slight
Contamination of potable water with No - Slight
leachate (see hydrogeology)
Exposure to landfill gas Yes - Slight
Exposure to vermin acting as disease Yes - Slight
vectors
Risk of traffic accidents Yes - Slight
٧.٩.٤ Summary of Mitigation Measures
Measures to mitigate potential health impacts of MSW disposal:

• strict control over entry and exit to sites;
• control of vermin, insects and birds by compaction of deposited waste and application of cover
materials in small, clearly-defined operating cells;
• training in safe working methods and good hygiene practices;
Measures to mitigate exposure to, or explosion of landfill gas

• Vertical gas wells will be installed and pumped to collection points where it will be flared.
• A program of landfill gas monitoring to assess the effectiveness of the gas control measures
• Installation and maintenance of the gas collection and venting system by adequately trained and
qualified staff
Measures to limit exposure to vermin.

• Controlled access to the sites
• Reduction of vermin by spraying with insecticides, distributing pesticide/raticide, and daily waste
cover.
Measures to reduce risk of traffic accidents

• control of the routes that drivers take
• upgrading and maintenance of access roads
٧.١٠ Social and Socio-economic Impacts
٧.١٠.١ Land Acquisition and Land Use
The Landfill Site

There are three extended families (or family clans) in the Sa’ir municipality, Hebron Governorate, that
own the land resources that are needed for the proposed Al-Menya sanitary landfill (see Figure 7.1).
- 75 -
These owners wish to lease the land needed to the JSC-H&B. The landowners welcome the fact that
the communities near the proposed landfill site will benefit from the landfill site through the creation of
employment opportunities during the construction and operation of the site, and through the attraction of
investors that are interested in the processing and marketing of recyclable waste. They will also put
conditions in the lease contract that the site management is in accordance with international standards,
since they want to prevent a replication of negative impacts that communities near the Yatta site had to
experience until some years ago.
- 76 -
Figure 7.1 Ownership around the Proposed Landfill Site
- 77 -
The landfill site is on marginal agricultural land with no inhabitants. A shepherd from Siir City, recently
moved to a derelict farmhouse about 800 meters from the proposed site. The landowners explained that
they neither rented the land to farmers nor gave grazing rights to the shepherd and therefore there will
be no requirement for resettlement or compensation.
A strip of land is also needed for a new site access road that will by-pass al-Menya village. The
proposed road will connect the tarmac road between Siir road and Kisen village with the road that leads
to the proposed landfill site. The new road will pass about 500 m through a rocky area, avoiding a
nearby olive garden. Four families own land. Again, the landowners are willing to sell the land to the
local government. They support the community leaders who want the by-pass road and acknowledge
that the land value is low. Moreover, they also expect to benefit from the improved accessibility of their
land resources.
All the landowners live in Sa’ir municipality about 10 km away and the land is dry and unproductive.
None of these families actually live on the land and the information is based on a number of site visits
with surveyors as well as about a dozen stakeholder consultations. Nevertheless, there are generally
uncertainties with confirming land titles in the West Bank, especially when Area C is involved because
the scope of land searches is more limited. The project proponent has therefore contracted a legal
counsel to provide assistance in verifying land titles and in the acquisition process. This Counsel will
review other official documentation verify ownership and confirm that no land disputes are associated
with the land in question.

A transfer station will be constructed in the southern industrial zone of Hebron City, a distance of around
25 km to the al-Menya landfill, to serve municipalities in the southern region of Hebron, the southern
neighborhoods of Hebron City and the Southern industrial zone of Hebron City. The land is completely
owned by Hebron municipality with an area of about 1.8 ha. It is about 1,000 meters from the main road
(road 60) which connect all the major cities it the West Bank and runs close by the landfill. The area
needed for the transfer station is about 0.4 ha.
The site is surrounded by factories and workshops. In addition there are some residential buildings
starting at a distance of around 130 m way. The nearest factories, a few meters away from the site,
include lathing workshops, plastic manufacturers, carpentry workshops, aluminum workshops, and
leather manufacturers (tanneries). The surrounding land is privately owned and apart from the
aforementioned industrial, commercial and residential buildings there are small areas that are vacant
lots. No existing land users will be displaced. World Bank OP4.12 will not be relevant.
٧.١٠.٢ Loss of Arable and Grazing Land
The land needed for the landfill is subject to erratic rainfall and has shallow and rocky soils that prevent
mechanization. It is of little use for agriculture. There is a local customary law in the Siir community that
shepherd may graze their sheep on publicly and privately owned land as long no agricultural crops are
damaged. The shepherds cannot claim any rights for compensation if the owner or tenant changes the
land use. The shepherds will lose some grazing land based on customary law but that same customary
law does not give them any compensation rights. Nevertheless any impact will be evaluated by an
independent assessor and compensated for (see Section 7.13.3).
٧.١٠.٣ Impacts on Local Social Structure
The Landfill Site

The leaders of the al-Menya community support the construction of the regional landfill because they
expect positive impacts on the community to outweigh the negative impacts. They expect that the
- 78 -
transport infrastructure will improve in their community and that some unemployed young men will find
employment, directly or indirectly, due to the presence of the landfill.
The village leaders considered uncontrolled scavenging like at the Yatta landfill site as a potential
negative socio-economic impact. The local leaders fear that the waste-pickers will move to the al-Menya
site after the closure of the Yatta site. They do not consider waste picking as a negative impact, but the
unorganized and dangerous manner of waste separation and the involvement of child labor. Waste-
pickers from Yatta, who own motorized means of transport, confirmed that they would attempt to
continue waste picking at the new site. The assessed negative socio-economic impacts will develop if
the leaders of the regional waste management system fail to develop a clear concept, administrative
systems and infrastructure for waste picking at the new site.
The management of the regional landfill will strongly influence the socio-economic and cultural impacts
that the landfill will have on the neighboring communities. If the management is sensitive towards the
concerns of the community, and develops timely solutions for the anticipated concerns of the
communities than minimal negative impacts are expected. Therefore the impact is assessed as neutral.
٧.١٠.٤ Impacts on Local Employment
The Landfill
The contractors of the infrastructure of regional landfill will bring their qualified staff but will also recruit
daily laborers for construction activities. Daily laborers will be recruited on the local market since those
are cheapest.
The operational entity of the site needs technical and administrative staff. The junior staff members are
commonly recruited from communities close to the location since that save on transport costs. Without a
waste separation line the station will have about 10 staff members and therefore the investment has a
positive impact on employment in a remote area. However the staff recruitment policies will determine
whether the local communities will benefit or refuse workers that come from elsewhere.
Therefore the assessment is that the investment in the regional landfill will have a positive impact on
local employment.

The transfer station will employ a few staff members to manage and operate the station and to manage
and operate the hauling trucks. Without a waste separation line the station will have about 5 staff
members and therefore the investment has a very positive impact on employment. However, the staff
recruitment policies will determine whether the local or neighboring communities will benefit or refuse
workers that come from elsewhere. Therefore the assessment is that the investment in the transfer
station will have a positive impact on local employment.
٧.١٠.٥ Impacts on Waste Pickers
The deterioration of economic conditions in Southern Hebron Governorate has pressed unemployed
young men into waste picking at the Yatta landfill site. On an average summer day in July 2008 132
waste-pickers came to the site. 52% live in the neighboring communities and 48% in Yatta city (15 km
from the site). About 32% of the waste-pickers are 21 years or older, 32 % are between 16 and 20
years, and 36% are younger than 16 years, as Table 7.11 shows.
The number of waste-pickers decreases to about 40 when the children and youths have to attend
school. Adult waste-pickers from the neighboring communities and from Yatta city come daily for waste
picking to the site, and during the weekends and school vacations their sons accompany them. Table
7.11 shows that 74% of the growing number of waste pickers are children and young men, who come
from the poorest families in the communities near the landfill site. Therefore, child labor is a key issue.
- 79 -
Table 7.11: Waste-pickers active on Yatta landfill site by age and residential area
Area <16 years 16-20 years 21-30 years >31years Total
Neighboring 35 20 5 9 69
communities (74%) (47%) (21%) (50%) (52%)
Yatta city 12 23 19 9 63
(26%) (53%) (79%) (50%) (48%)
Total 47 (36%) 43 (32%) 24 (18) 18 (14%) 132 (100%)
th
Source: Waste-pickers census conducted on 24 July 2008
The families that depend on waste picking for income will have to find an alternative after closure of the
Yatta landfill site. Many of the adult waste-pickers from Yatta city and few from the neighboring
communities own motorized means of transport and are mobile and it is their intention to go to the new
landfill site or the transfer station. The formalization of waste separation and the introduction of entry
passes will prevent children from entering these facilities.
For the poor and less mobile waste-pickers, employment at the new facilities is a less practicable option.
These households have few resources outside a simple house and a donkey for transporting the picked
waste from the landfill to the home yard. Profiles of such households showed that the young waste-
pickers come from families with many children (5 to 14). Where the father is unable to work and
generate income, elder boys drop out of school to secure the income and enable the younger children to
finish primary education. Fathers engaged in waste picking encourage their sons to assist them so that
they can focus on purchasing metal and plastics from other waste-pickers.
For the poor waste-pickers families that cannot develop alternative sources of income a compensation
scheme has been developed. The municipalities in Yatta district can obtain funding from the social
safety net program for the poorest community members whose subsistence is threatened. The
SWBSWMP will identify the most seriously affected households and arrange that these are admitted to
the program for a period of two years through SWBSWMP funding. It is expected that especially the
families whose children were involved on a permanent basis in waste picking will benefit from the
compensation scheme. The estimated required budget for this social compensation scheme is US$
20.000 (20 families a US$ 900 and US$ 2000 administrative costs).
Some families will, however, not be admitted because they have land or other resources that can be
used for income generation. Others may prefer to receive access to soft loan programs for small
commercial enterprises such as vegetable growing. Therefore both options need to be offered to the
remaining families.
Some highly motivated adult waste separators can become involved in projects that aim for piloting at
source waste separation and separated collection. These waste-pickers receive training in the collection
and recycling of specific types of waste, like electronic equipment, clothes and furniture. After the
training they can obtain soft loans through commercial banks for opening second-hand shops where
recycled goods or spare parts can be sold.
Preferential treatment for employment opportunities is proposed as compensation for the risks the
waste-pickers and communities face from the SWBSWMP. The waste-pickers have already many years
experience in waste separation and recycling and therefore are valuable labor resource for public and
private companies investing in waste separation. Moreover, these groups have been identified as the
most seriously affected by the project. The waste-pickers from Yatta are self-employed and they will
lose their source of income without receiving compensation. The communities near the transfer
station(s) and landfill sites accepted the risks of negative impacts in the expectation of receiving
benefits.
- 80 -
Waste-pickers form a social issue in the large-scale landfill site of Hebron governorate but not in the
small-scale landfill sites in Bethlehem governorate.
Table 7.12: Expected enrollment capacities for waste-pickers households
Activities Compensations Beneficiaries
Adult waste separators from Preferential treatment in selection of waste separators 10 households
Yatta owning transport at transfer station for Southern Hebron and regional
landfill at
Adult waste separators from Preferential treatment in selection of staff for the 4 households
communities near old landfill operational entity and the contractors that will close
site and supervise the Yatta landfill site
Adult waste separators *Training in waste recycling and loan program for 6 households
interested in developing micro-enterprises that participate in the waste
waste recycling micro- separation pilots
enterprises
Families with *Mini grant for baby green house to produce 20 households
children/juveniles that earn vegetables for local market
families living at old landfill *Admission to Social Safety Program for poor families
site that fail to generated minimally required family income
٧.١٠.٦ Impacts on Culturally Significant Sites
Introduction
From the published information the proposed landfill site is not considered to have specific recreational,
historical or cultural significance. The past land uses of the site have been always related to grazing.
Similarly, the transfer station site has been unused until being reclaimed for industrial use.
Survey
In order to fully complete the cultural survey a further literature search was completed.
The following literature was reviewed:
• Endangered Cultural Heritage Sites in the West Bank Governorates, Emergency Natural Resources
Protection Plan, MoPIC (1998);
• Environmental Profile of the West Bank, Hebron District, ARIJ)
• Map Cultural Heritage Sites, MoPIC and Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities (1997); and
• West Bank and Gaza Solid Waste and Environment Management Project (SWEMP): Solid Waste
Management Study, Vol. 3: Environmental Analysis of the Hebron/Yatta landfill site (1998).
Yatta and its neighboring areas were toured in 1998 by ERM and in 2008 by DHV and interviews were
held with residents of Arab Az-Zuweidin and Deirat, and with the JSC-H&B..
The proposed sites were surveyed and interviews were held with waste-pickers at Yatta.
Results
The reviewed literature and interviews confirmed, although there are many archeological sites in the
Hebron area, no archeological materials had ever been found at or near the proposed sites. A survey of
the general lay-out of the landfill area and a careful site search found no evidence of any cultural
heritage. There are no current sites of worship in the immediate vicinity of the landfill or the transfer
station sites. Nevertheless, the construction contractors will be instructed to ensure there are pre-
excavation checks for any cultural or archaeological artifacts. In case of “Chance Find” they will stop all
works and inform the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities and resume only after securing proper
clearances from the authorities.
- 81 -
٧.١٠.٧ Impacts of Induced Development
Because the project will bring infrastructure to the marginal area of the proposed landfill site, some
existing industrial activities may move closer to the landfill from outside while some new industries may
start to be established and this will allow economical growth and create jobs. Stone cutting and shaping
enterprises are suffering from increasing pressure of residents in areas such as Beit Fajjar which is not
far away from the site and this will help in reducing air pollution resulted from this industry inside urban
areas. The landfill area's land price is much lower that urban areas and this may raise the land price,
and attract investors. Recycling industries and traders in recyclable materials may also migrate to sites
around the landfill and transfer station. As long as these are regulated by existing zoning laws the
impacts will be generally moderately beneficial, in terms of jobs and local economy.
Table 7.13: Summary of Social and Socio-economic Impacts
Potential Impacts Mitigation/ Positive Residual

Management or Impact
Proposed Negative
Impacts of Land Acquisition and on Land Use Yes - Slight
Loss of Arable and Grazing Land Yes - Slight
Impacts on Local Social Structure Yes - Slight
Impacts on Local Employment No + Slight
Impacts on Waste Pickers Yes + Significant
Impacts on Cultural Heritage Yes - Slight
Impacts of Induced Development No + Moderate
٧.١٠.٨ Summary of Mitigation Measures
Measures to Mitigate Land Acquisition and Land Use Impacts

There are generally uncertainties with confirming private land titles in the West Bank. In relation to the
land needed for the proposed site of the landfill and the access road, therefore, specialist legal expertise
will be acquired to verify land titles and ownership and to confirm that no land disputes are associated
with the land in question. In addition, an abbreviated Resettlement Plan will be implemented in order to
ensure a fair economic compensation for the affected landowners through a consultative and mutually
agreeable process.
The Abbreviated Resettlement Plan covers the following elements:

• A census survey of affected persons and valuation of assets;
• Description of compensation and other resettlement assistance to be provided;
• Institutional arrangements and consultations with affected people about acceptable alternatives;
• Existing legal and policy framework for land acquisition;
• Institutional responsibility for implementation and procedures for grievance redress;
• Arrangements for monitoring and implementation; and
• A timetable and budget.
Measures to reduce loss of arable and grazing land
Measures to reduce impacts on local social structure

The management of the project sites will be sensitive towards the concerns of surrounding communities
and land users by:
- 82 -
• Enforcing planning controls and implementing the abbreviated Resettlement Plans to ensure that an
unregulated community of waste traders and pickers does not develop around the sites
• Operating an effective complaints management system
Measures to Mitigate Impacts on Waste Pickers and Herdsmen

The main risk arising from shutting the Yatta dump site is the loss of income of the poorest households
in the community. At the new landfill site a few herdsmen may lose access to the free grazing available
on the site. An abbreviated Resettlement Action Plan has been prepared for these groups. Several
mitigation actions are proposed, to be assessed before the new landfill is completed by a consultant and
then implemented by the JSC-H&B. The actions include the following.
• Formalize waste picking/separating through a pilot recycling plant at the landfill

• Give current waste pickers preferential treatment for hiring under the formalized system.
• Provide appropriate training/skills development for both waste pickers and the women in their
households in the pilot recycling scheme
• Include eligible families, especially those with working children, in the DEEP, a national program
that helps the poorest households establish businesses by making small soft loans available.
• Include eligible households in the national Social Safety Net Program, implemented through the
Ministry of Social Affairs.
In addition, a database of the current waste pickers will be developed to ensure that they are included
in the proposed interventions. A Social /Community Outreach specialist will be hired for a period of at
least two years to ensure that the above actions are implemented.
Measures to reduce impacts on cultural heritage

• Ensure pre-excavation check for any cultural or archaeological artifacts
• In case of “Chance Find” stop all works and inform the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities
• Resume only after securing proper clearances from the authorities
- 83 -
٨ NEED FOR AWARENESS RAISING AND CAPACITY DEVELOPMENT
٨.١.١ Introduction
Addressing the major social concerns depends in large part on raising public awareness of the issues
and changing behavior in waste production and separation. The behavior and capacities of the public
sector in managing, supervising and monitoring project activities also needs to be enhanced.
٨.١.٢ Awareness Raising
Waste separation requires a change of attitude of the leaders of households, services and enterprises.
The leaders of households, services and enterprises have to acknowledge that it is their responsibility to
care for sustainable and environment friendly development. This responsibility starts with the production
and separation of solid waste as a public service for reducing the costs for waste collection and disposal
for all stakeholders. The beneficiaries of the municipal waste management system also have to pay at a
level that allows the public sector to recover the cost of providing a modern, well regulated and efficient
service.
٨.١.٣ Gender Issues
Socio-cultural value systems prevent the involvement of female workers in the formal and informal
waste management system and at the landfill site in Yatta, only young boys and young and adult men
were engaged in waste picking. However, in the informal recycling systems female members of the
waste-pickers’ households play a less visible but important role. Any initiative to improve the recycling of
the ‘female’ goods should have these invisible female recyclers as target group.
Women are in the household predominantly responsible for the separation, storage and disposal of the
household waste. Any attempt to introduce at source waste separation requires a change of behavior of
the waste producers and of the waste management system. Behavioral changes at household level
should start with awareness raising activities of sustainable development. These activities should take
children and their mothers as the prime target group since they have a major influence on waste
separation, storage and disposal at household level. The waste management system should organize
collection of the separated waste at household and enterprise level. The concerns of female leaders
regarding the storage and collection of separated waste need to be considered and therefore the
representation of women organizations in a Steering Committee of a pilot project needs to be
considered.
From a gender perspective the following recommendations are given concerning public awareness
campaign:
a. Representatives of community-based women organizations should be involved in the
governance structure of waste separation pilot projects to incorporate women concerns on
storage and disposal at source separated waste
b. Children and their mothers should become the main focus of environmental awareness
activities because of their concerns about a healthy and sustainable living habitat
c. Training initiatives for waste recycling of traditional women goods should take the female
members of the waste-pickers’ households as target group in southern West Bank.
٨.١.٤ Management and Labor Issues
Waste separation needs to take place at the transfer and regional landfill site in the short and medium
term. In the long term it is expected that at-source waste separation will gradually replace waste
separation at the regional SWM facilities. There is recommended to make public investments in facilities
for safe and efficient semi-manual waste separation at the transfer station and the regional landfill site.
The management and labor arrangements for waste separation need to give priority to employment
- 84 -
generation rather than profit maximization. The local authorities and waste-pickers preferred some
smaller transfer stations above one large one in Hebron Municipality. The proposed designs of the
transfer station(s) and landfill site needs to be adjusted to the request for facilities for safe semi-manual
waste separation.
Communities near the proposed SWM facilities and waste-pickers at the Yatta landfill site were
identified as the main risks for the SWBSWMP. The communities because of protest against the
planned and latter operated facility because the costs-benefits relation developed differently than
expected. The self-employed waste-pickers are expected to oppose losing their income source and try
to enter the new facilities through illegal means. Both stakeholders categories need to obtain a
preferential treatment when the public sector or sub-contracted private sector organizations involved in
SWBSWMP recruited staff or waste separators for the facilities.
Child labor in waste separation at the transfer stations and new regional landfill site needs to be
prevented on social grounds. Waste separation needs to be upgraded in a formal profession and the
involved workers need to receive training in dealing with waste, in particular hazardous wastes. Only
adult waste separators that pass the exams will be admitted to the waste separation facilities on the
basis of transparent and fair conditions. This will form an opportunity for adult waste-pickers with
motorized means of transport.
٨.٢ Impacts Associated With Proposed Formal Waste Recycling
٨.٢.١ Introduction
Waste is currently recycled informally at the existing dump site at Yatta by collaboration between small
scale traders who buy plastics, metal etc, for resale to recycling enterprises and waste pickers operating
in loose associations, mainly family groups. This will be terminated when the new landfill becomes
operational. Furthermore, waste separation and recycling at the new site may be transformed by
proposals currently under development. The separation and reuse of recyclable waste as a formal
commercial activity has been proposed as an additional project component by a wide alliance of
stakeholders at national and regional level. Concrete concepts and designs have not been presented in
the project documents, nor therefore in the project description that forms Section 3 of this ESIA report.
Potential impacts and mitigation measures based on a generic understanding of the proposals are
outlined in this Section.
٨.٢.٢ Proposals for Waste Separation and Recycling
The basic ideas are:
• Construction of a simple infrastructure for safe and efficient semi-manual separation of recyclable
waste that compactors trucks deposit at the transfer station and landfill site, and
• Piloting of at source separation in eight purposely selected urban and rural communities.
Both measures require an innovative public-private sector partnership for the design and management
of the project component. The public sector is expected to invest in the required infrastructure for
separation and storage at the proposed sites, and the private sector in the infrastructure for collecting
the separate waste, recycling and marketing. The required technical and organizational concepts still
need to develop in detail through a Steering Committee that has representatives of the public, private
and voluntary sector organizations. However, a preliminary assessment of potential social impacts can
already be made on the basis of the basic concept.
- 85 -
٨.٢.٣ Potential Impacts of Proposed Waste Separation Schemes
Socio-economic Impacts
Reduction of the waste volumes and reuse of recyclable waste at the transfer station (s) will reduce the
transport costs and contribute to sustainable socio-economic development at local and regional level.
The potential socio-economic impact of waste separation and recycling is assessed as positive and
essential for sustainable development.
Impact on local employment

Waste separation and recycling presently currently takes place in the informal waste management
system. The proposed project component will have a positive impact on local employment through the
development of partnership between the formal public and informal private sector waste management
systems. If no centralized organization structures are introduced for waste separation and recycling,
then the project will have a positive impact on local employment.
Impact on public health and safety

Waste separation at source is expected to have no negative impact on public health and safety in the
households if the storage facilities and collection schedules for separated waste consider public health
risks. This means that hazardous and construction waste will have to be delivered separately at the
transfer and landfill site and glass will be disposed in special collection containers. Waste separation at
the transfer and landfill potentially has a negative impact on public health and safety because
compacted waste is de-compacted to enable separation. However, the investment in a disposal
container with sorting facilities for semi manual separation is considered to have a positive impact on
public health and safety compared to the present situation.
Impact on local employment

Waste separation and recycling presently currently takes place in the informal waste management
system. The proposed project component will have a positive impact on local employment through the
development of partnership between the formal public and informal private sector waste management
systems. If no centralized organization structures are introduced for waste separation and recycling,
then the project will have a positive impact on local employment.
Potential aesthetic impacts

The storage of separated waste usually has negative visual impacts because waste traders have
commonly locate their storage and processing facilities close to the source (transfer or landfill). It is
expected that the transfer station and regional landfill site will attract private companies to invest in
storage and recycling facilities. If this investment is designed in accordance with the spatial plans and
construction norms, there will be no aesthetic impacts.
Table 8.1 Summary of Potential Impacts from Separation and Recycling
Potential Impacts Mitigation/ Positive or Residual

Proposed
Potential socio-economic and cultural impacts No + Slight
Impacts on public health and safety Yes - Slight
Impact on local employment No + Slight
Aesthetic impacts No - Slight
- 86 -
٩ THE ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MANAGEMENT PLAN
٩.١ Introduction
The ESMP constitutes a critical link between the management and mitigation measures specified in this
report and the proper implementation and management of the measures during the construction and
operation of the project. It summarizes the anticipated environmental and social impacts and provides
details on the measures responsibilities and scheduling to mitigate these impacts; the costs of
mitigation; and, the ways in which implementation and effectiveness of the measures will be monitored
and supervised.
Mostly, especially in comparison with current conditions, the project will have positive impacts on the
quality of peoples’ lives. Consistent with the scope of the project and the available resources, measures
have been proposed that maximize these benefits. The SWBSWMP is basically an environmental
improvement project. From first planning its design has incorporated a significant number of measures
directed specifically towards environmental protection and the minimization and/or mitigation of potential
environmental impacts. However, there is still potential for some negative impacts due to the nature of
project sites or the risk that design features will not be implemented. These have generally been
addressed in three ways as follows.
• Additional prevention or abatement measures have been incorporated into the design of the
facilities or into the specifications of equipment.
• Operating and management procedures will be enforced that specify how staff will carry out their
duties at project sites.
• Capacity development and administrative measures have been developed to ensure the
responsible institutions have the legal, administrative and human resources necessary to fulfill their
functions.
٩.٢ Structure of the ESMP
The measures required by the ESMP will be incorporated in a series of documents that will be linked
through the ESPM and the associated Monitoring Plan. These documents are as follows.
• Relevant provisions of the ESMP will be incorporated into the Contract Documents prepared for
firms bidding to work on major project construction activities (i.e. the construction of the landfill, the
construction of the transfer station, and the closure of the Yatta site) forming a binding contractual
obligation that specifies not just design features but, where the ESMP so requires, management of
workers, vehicles, machinery, operating times, methods of working, complaints management etc.
• Relevant provisions of the ESMP will also be incorporated into the operational contracts (i.e. the
operation of the landfill, the operation of the transfer station, and the operation of the collection
vehicles). These binding contractual obligations will specify, where the ESMP so requires, site
management and maintenance routines, employment practices, vehicle routes, operating times,
methods of working, complaints management etc.
• Relevant provisions of the ESMP will also be incorporated into the agreement of the JSC-H&B to
manage the project. This will include a monitoring plan for noise, dust, and water. A supervision
plan to check the progress and effectiveness of the environmental and social mitigation measures.
Arrangements to implement the provisions of the Abbreviated Resettlement Action Plans, and
provisions to implement a training program in environmental management, for national and local
government officials.
- 87 -
It will be the responsibility of the project proponent to prepare these documents, based on the provisions
of the ESMP. Accordingly, the EMP contained herein identifies:
• all key mitigation measures required for successful project implementation (whether or not these
are already included in the project design);
• any associated compliance monitoring recommended to ensure successful implementation of the
recommended mitigation measures;
• the environmental monitoring program recommended to assess and evaluate the ongoing
environmental impacts of project development; and
• the institutional arrangements and responsibilities by each party for execution of the mitigation
measures and for compliance and environmental monitoring.
The landfill project proposals are at the conceptual design stage and detailed design of the facility is
required prior to project development. As a consequence the ESMP ‘provided below outlines the key
components of such a plan for the landfill development, rather than dealing specifically with detailed
design of the landfill site.
Once the detailed design has been commissioned and developed it will be necessary for the project
proponent to elaborate the guidance provided here into detailed procedures. They can then prepare the
documents to ensure that the required investments are made and the appropriate controls are in place
throughout project construction, operations and after-care.
Cost Estimate for Implementing the ESMP and ARAP: The cost associated with implementing the
ESMP is as follows:
Unit Cost
N Item description Rate Quantity
(USD) (USD)
o
1. Recruit Specialized Environment Consulting Firm to a) 70,000/y 5 350,000
supervise and report on compliance with the ESMP, ear
b) to monitor and test water and wastewater quality, c)
carryout training programs aimed at building capacity
of EQA, JSC-H&B staff, participating municipalities’
SWM staff, and d) study tours to SWM schemes.
2. Workshops and capacity building for waste pickers on 30,000
issues such as management, separation, recycling
and marketing of waste.
3. Environmental awareness/education programs for 20,000
local communities located within 5 km of the project
area. Preparation of awareness material (videos,
brochures, etc.).
TOTAL 400,000
The cost associated with implementing the ARAPs is as follows:
i) The budget related to this ARAP for Land Owners can be summarized as
follows (in US$):
- 88 -
Al-Menya
Compensation Parameter
Costs (US$)*
Land Acquisition (230 dunums @US$8,500 per dunum**) 1,955,000
Land Lease arrangement (annual lease @$300/dunum) for 20 1,380,000

years
i) The budget related to this ARAP for Waste Pickers and Herdsmen can be summarized as follows (in
US$):
Al-Menya Yatta Total

Compensation Parameter
Costs (US$)* Costs (US$) Costs (US$)
1
Waste pickers livelihood support 0 72,000 72,000
Compensation Herdsmen 2,500 2,500

1
Of this figure, US$30,000 already included in the ESMP above.
A summary of different environmental and social impacts (those reported in the previous chapters) with
their mitigation is introduced in Table 8.1.
- 89 -
- 90 -
Environmental and Social Management Plan
A: Mitigation
Potential Proposed Mitigation Institutional Cost Comments

Environmental Measures Responsibilities Estimates
and Social (see notes for details)
Area Affected Impacts
Construction Phase
Dust and emissions Construction code of Contractor (in Included in
from construction practice accordance with project costs
activities contractual obligation)
Air Quality
(See Notes:1)
JSC-H&B contract
supervisor
Change in landscape Construction code of Contractor (in Included in
character from site accordance with project costs
practice
construction contractual obligation)
Aesthetic
(See Notes:2) JSC-H&B contract
supervisor
Noise arising from Construction code of Contractor (in Included in
construction of the practice accordance with project costs
landfill and transfer contractual obligation)
Noise
station (See Notes:3)
JSC-H&B contract
supervisor
Operation and Maintenance Phase
Odor impacts from site Landfill design Contractor (in Included in
accordance with project costs
activities
Landfill site operations contractual obligation)
manual
Air Quality
Waste collection company
operation manual
Transfer station operation

manual
al-Menya Landfill ESIA ‫! ا ر‬

. ‫ ر ا‬, version 4
- 91 -
(See Notes:4)
Dust generated from Landfill site operations Contractor (in Included in
manual accordance with project costs
on-site vehicle
contractual obligation)
movements and (See Notes:5)
placement of waste and
cover material
Vehicle exhaust Landfill site operations Contractor (in Included in

emissions on-site
(See Notes:6)
Effects from emission of Landfill design Contractor (in Included in
greenhouse gases
(See Notes:7) contractual obligation)
Improved air quality on Project Component 2 JSC-H&B Included in

project costs
cessation of waste design
burning
(See Notes: 8)
Landfill site operations Contractor (in Included in

Operational noise contractual obligation)
(See Notes:9)
Noise Waste collection company Contractor (in Included in
operation manual accordance with project costs
Noise from Vehicle contractual obligation)
Movement (See Notes:10)
Aesthetic Effects of site Landfill design Contractor (in Included in

- 92 -
operations upon visual accordance with project costs
amenity
manual
(See Notes:11)
Improvement in visual Project Component 2 JSC-H&B Included in
project costs
amenity upon closure of design
the existing landfill
(See Notes:12)
Permanent change in Landfill design JSC-H&B Included in

project costs
landscape upon site
(See Notes: 13)
restoration
Increased traffic loading Landfill design Contractor (in Included in

and traffic congestion
manual

operation manual

Roads and Traffic manual
(See Notes:14)
Air quality impacts from Waste collection company Contractor (in Included in
vehicle emissions
(See Notes:10)
Traffic noise Waste collection company Contractor (in Included in

- 93 -
(See Notes:10)
Littering and cleanliness Waste collection company Contractor (in Included in
during waste transit
(See Notes:15)
Impacts from seismic Landfill design JSC-H&B Included in
project costs
activity
(See Notes:16)
Risks from cavities in Landfill construction Contractor (in Included in
contract accordance with project costs
the limestone
Geology and Soils underlying the site (See Notes:17)
Impacts at the off-site Landfill site operations Contractor (in Included in

sources of construction
materials (See Notes:18)
Contamination of water Landfill design JSC-H&B Included in

project costs
resources from project
Landfill site operations Contractor (in
leachate emissions manual accordance with
(See Notes:19)
Hydrogeology, Hydrology, Cessation of Project Component 2 JSC-H&B Included in
and Water Quality design project costs
contamination of water
resources from existing (See Notes:20)
disposal sites
Alteration of surface Landfill design JSC-H&B Included in

project costs
water regime

- 94 -
(See Notes:21)
Contamination of water Landfill design Contractor (in Included in
resources by fuel
spillage manual
(See Notes:22)
Extension of habitats Landfill design JSC-H&B Included in
project costs
(buffer zones)
(See Notes:23)
Creation of new habitats Landfill design JSC-H&B Included in
project costs
(post-restoration)
(See Notes:24)
Domestic animals and Landfill design Contractor (in Included in
livestock
Flora and Fauna manual
(See Notes:25)
Direct exposure to Landfill site operations Contractor (in Included in

Public health and safety hazardous material manual accordance with project costs

- 95 -
manual
(See Notes:26)
Contamination of Landfill design JSC-H&B Included in
potable water with project costs
leachate Landfill site operations Contractor (in
manual accordance with
Project Component 2
design
(See Notes:19 & 20)

Exposure to landfill gas Landfill design Contractor (in Included in
manual
(See Notes:27)
Exposure to vermin Landfill site operations Contractor (in Included in
acting as disease manual accordance with project costs
vectors contractual obligation)
(See Notes:28)
Risk of traffic accidents Landfill design Contractor (in Included in
manual

operation manual

- 96 -
manual
(See Notes:29)
Impacts of Land Abbreviated Resettlement JSC-H&B $2.0 million
Acquisition and on Land Plan (Landowners) has been
Use included in
(See Notes:30) project costs
for land
acquisition
Loss of Grazing Land Abbreviated Resettlement JSC-H&B NIS 10,000 More studies are
Plan (Waste pickers and has been needed to
Herdsmen) allocated for determine the
waste pickers need for
(See Notes: 32) and herdsmen. compensation
This may be
used for feed.
Further studies
to determine
Social and socio-economic
the best use of
funds are
underway.
Impacts on Local Social Covenant with JSC-H&B JSC-H&B $350,000 has
Structure been provided
(See Notes:31) for, inter alia,
training
programs for
EQA, JSC-
H&B and
participating
municipalities’
SWM staff
Impacts on Waste Abbreviated Resettlement JSC-H&B $150,000, has
Plan (Waste pickers and $150,000 for a been set aside for

- 97 -
Pickers Herdsmen) pilot recycling studies on how
and best to achieve
(See Notes: 32) composting this
facility
$30,000 for
workshops and
capacity
building
Impacts on Cultural Construction code of Contractor (in Included in
Heritage practice accordance with project costs
(See Notes:33)
Notes
١. Measures to mitigate dust and emissions from construction activities.
A variety of measures to reduce the potential impacts will be employed, including covering of stockpiles of friable materials in order to reduce the potential
for windblown dust; damping down of site roads, supplies of water permitting; early construction of the wheel wash and mandatory use for all vehicles
leaving the site.
٢. Measures to avoid changes in landscape character from site construction
Perimeter fencing will be put up at all sites to be developed. Buffer zones, including tree and shrub belts, will be used to screen operations.
٣. Measures to minimize construction noise

- 98 -
• use of temporary noise baffles and noise fencing during the construction of the site access road adjacent if necessary to protect adjacent NSRs;
• fitting of noise mufflers to mobile plant and equipment;
٤. Measures to mitigate odor impacts from site activities.
Specified procedures for sanitary landfilling include a range of measures intended to provide effective control of odor during waste deposition, primarily the
disposal of waste in small well-defined cells, the compaction of waste and the application of odor-prove cover materials to prevent prolonged exposure of
vulnerable wastes to the atmosphere. These measures will be implemented on site as routine operational practice. In addition, any particularly odorous
wastes shall be buried immediately within previously deposited waste and covered.
٥. Measures to control dust generated from on-site vehicle movements and the placement of waste and cover materials:
• compaction of the deposited and application of cover material;

- 99 -
٦. Measures to mitigate air quality impacts from vehicle emissions.
At the start of site construction works, these impacts can be minimized through the use of modern, well-maintained and regularly serviced vehicles,
scheduled to operate, as far as is practicable, outside of peak traffic periods.
٧. Measures to reduce emission of greenhouse gases
Active degasifying of the landfill to obtain a high landfill gas collection rate. The gas will be directed to a landfill gas flare where the gas will be incinerated at
temperatures of about 1,200° C. The possible use of the extracted gas for electricity or heat generation.
٨. Measures to improve air quality at existing dump sites
Improved management (to prevent waste burning and fires), daily covering of waste and eventual closure and sealing of the sites (to prevent odor).
٩. Measures to minimize operational noise
• mobile plant equipment will be used singly, with multiple use of mobile plant equipment is restricted to short time periods, unlike construction
activities;
• landfilling activities will be mobile and not fixed in that they move across the landfill footprint. Therefore, no area is subjected to the operation of the
dozer and/or track loader, for example, for long continuous periods of time; and

- 100 -
١٠. Measures to reduce traffic noise
As a matter of routine it is considered good practice to use only modern, well-maintained and regularly serviced vehicles in order to minimize the potential
negative impacts of increased traffic flows.
١١. Measures to avoid impacts on visual amenity
Active landscaping will be practiced. Shade trees will be planted behind the boundary fences using similar tree varieties to those in the surroundings. The
operational practices will incorporate measures to reduce litter, and smoke. There will be organized waste disposal using cellular methods of filling. Sites
will be tidy.
١٢. Measures to improve visual amenity upon closure of the existing sites
Closure and remediation of sites. New waste management procedures including street sweeping, litter prevention initiatives and enforcement of measures
to prohibit waste burning waste. Training of waste company staff in sensitive siting of waste collection containers.
١٣. Measures to avoid change in the landscape upon site restoration
The final restoration of the landfill site in character with the existing landscape and with a landform that is consistent with the prevailing topography.
١٤. Measures to prevent increased traffic loading and traffic congestion
• A new road section of 400 meter length will be constructed to provide access to the landfill site whilst ensuring that trucks avoid the al-Menya junction.
• The road connecting El Masara with Arab Er Rashadyda will be rehabilitated and paved
• The transfer station access will include separate entry and exit connections to the main road and a merging lane
• RCV routes will be controlled to prevent taking shortcuts on unsuitable roads
١٥. Measures to prevent littering during waste transit

- 101 -
Waste delivered to the project site will be enclosed either in a RCV or haulage container or will be covered by tarpaulin, sheet or netting (in the case of
open bulk-loaded containers).
١٦. Measures to mitigate risks from seismic activity
• Locating leachate accumulation away from fault planes
• Grading the landfill bed to drain away from the fault zone
١٧. Measures to mitigate risks associated with cavities underlying the site
• Shallow geophysical investigations to find out how many cavities and at what depth
• Test drilling to confirm the presence of a (shallow) cavity
• Large cavities filled with appropriate materials to prevent future collapse
• Production of maps that will help to avoid high risk areas
١٨. Measures to mitigate impacts at off-site sources of construction materials
• Storing materials won from the site for later used in landfill construction and cover
• Assessment of suitability of sites before sourcing construction materials and compliance with permitting procedure
١٩. Groundwater quality protection measures
The project design recognizes the potential adverse effects of leachate emissions from the site on groundwater resources. Accordingly, the development of
a leachate containment, collection and treatment system is a fundamental component of the engineering measures proposed, comprising:

- 102 -
• the installation of two HDPE lining systems in the zone of leachate accumulation, both designed to meet the maximum permeability specification
• the provision of a high permeability leachate collection and transfer system to facilitate the collection of leachate percolating through waste materials
and to drain leachate from the landfill in order to prevent a build-up of leachate within the body of the deposited waste;
• the provision of a leachate treatment pond and re-circulation facilities and equipment to promote the evaporation of any collected leachate, in order to
reduce leachate quantities and leachate strength;
• an operational and leachate management policy that is based on not discharging any leachate off-site.
• the adoption of routine operational measures to minimize leachate generation, including control of surface water run-on, cellular filling and the
adoption of re-circulation to dry absorptive waste.
٢٠. Measures to stop water pollution from existing sites
Remediation of existing sites which will involve the following:

• re-opening and cleaning of the wadis with sediment removal
• construction of diversion channels for runoff water
• construction of retaining walls around the perimeter
• covering with a liner (fitted underneath the base of the retaining wall)
• dividing the site surface area into smaller catchments that contain gravitational outlets
٢١. Mitigation Measures to prevent impacts of surface water flow regimes

- 103 -
The landfill design has incorporated a series of engineering measures in order to prevent the ponding of water and to provide uninterrupted flow of storm
water. The proposed measures comprise drainage ditches to divert surface water around and under the proposed landfill, all sized to accommodate the
storm water flows anticipated for a 1:100 year return period rainfall event.
٢٢. Measures to prevent contamination of water resources by fuel spillage
• the storm water and all other site drainage systems, including those serving the maintenance repair bays, refueling areas etc should incorporate
oil/water interceptors and traps that are cleaned regularly.
• all maintenance and refueling areas are covered with hardstanding (concrete or asphalt)
• refueling of vehicles does not take place anywhere except designated areas;
• all fuels or chemicals stored on site are placed on a paved surface and surround by a bund of appropriate height to capture fuel that may be released in
case of tank failure.
٢٣. Measures to extend habitats (buffer zones).

Project proposals include provision for peripheral shrub and tree belts within the buffer zone around the landfill footprint. The buffer zones will be planted
with local native species of trees and shrubs. The additional planting will increase substantially the overall area occupied by trees and shrubs in the
immediate vicinity of the project site.
٢٤. Measures related to creation of new habitats (post-restoration)

The introduction of an organic loamy soil (‘topsoil’) will encourage soil organisms to flourish in a site that, currently, is comparatively barren.
٢٥. Measures to reduce impacts to domestic animals and livestock

• Preventing the spread of plastic bags by proper fencing, good site management and the planting of a green belt buffer zone
• Preventing the livestock entering the landfill site with a fence that is set into the ground and fixed on steel pipes of 3 m height and inclined out at the
top by 0.5 m.

- 104 -
٢٦. Measures to mitigate potential health impacts of MSW disposal:
• strict control over entry and exit to sites;

• control of vermin, insects and birds by compaction of deposited waste and application of cover materials in small, clearly-defined operating cells;
• training in safe working methods and good hygiene practices;

٢٧. Measures to mitigate exposure to, or explosion of landfill gas

• Vertical gas wells will be installed and pumped to collection points where it will be flared.
• A program of landfill gas monitoring to assess the effectiveness of the gas control measures
• Installation and maintenance of the gas collection and venting system by adequately trained and qualified staff
٢٨. Measures to limit exposure to vermin.
• Controlled access to the sites

• Reduction of vermin by spraying with insecticides, distributing pesticide/raticide, and daily waste cover.

- 105 -
٢٩. Measures to reduce risk of traffic accidents
• control of the routes that drivers take
• upgrading and maintenance of access roads
٣٠. Measures to Mitigate Land Acquisition and Land Use Impacts

There are generally uncertainties with confirming private land titles in the West Bank. In relation to the land needed for the proposed site of the landfill and
the access road, therefore, specialist legal expertise will be acquired to verify land titles and ownership and to confirm that no land disputes are associated
with the land in question. In addition, an abbreviated Resettlement Plan will be implemented in order to ensure a fair economic compensation for the
affected landowners through a consultative and mutually agreeable process.
The Abbreviated Resettlement Plan covers the following elements:

• A census survey of affected persons and valuation of assets;
• Description of compensation and other resettlement assistance to be provided;
• Institutional arrangements and consultations with affected people about acceptable alternatives;
• Existing legal and policy framework for land acquisition;
• Institutional responsibility for implementation and procedures for grievance redress;
• Arrangements for monitoring and implementation; and
• A timetable and budget.
٣١. Measures to reduce impacts on local social structure

The management of the project sites will be sensitive towards the concerns of surrounding communities and land users by:

- 106 -
• Enforcing planning controls and implementing the abbreviated Resettlement Plans to ensure that an unregulated community of waste traders and
pickers does not develop around the sites
• Operating an effective complaints management system
٣٢. Measures to Mitigate Impacts on Waste Pickers and Herdsmen

The main risk arising from shutting the Yatta dump site is the loss of income of the poorest households in the community. At the new landfill site a few
herdsmen may lose access to the free grazing available on the site. An abbreviated Resettlement Action Plan has been prepared for these groups. Several
mitigation actions are proposed, to be assessed before the new landfill is completed by a consultant and then implemented by the JSC-H&B. The actions
include the following.
• Formalize waste picking/separating through a pilot recycling plant at the landfill

• Give current waste pickers preferential treatment for hiring under the formalized system.
• Provide appropriate training/skills development for both waste pickers and the women in their households in the pilot recycling scheme
• Include eligible families, especially those with working children, in the DEEP, a national program that helps the poorest households establish businesses
by making small soft loans available.
• Include eligible households in the national Social Safety Net Program, implemented through the Ministry of Social Affairs.
In addition, a database of the current waste pickers will be developed to ensure that they are included in the proposed interventions. A Social
/Community Outreach specialist will be hired for a period of at least two years to ensure that the above actions are implemented.
٣٣. Measures to reduce impacts on cultural heritage

• Ensure pre-excavation check for any cultural or archaeological artifacts
• In case of “Chance Find” stop all works and inform the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities
• Resume only after securing proper clearances from the authorities

- 107 -
- 108 -
B: Monitoring
Proposed Parameters Location Measurements Frequency Responsibilities Cost

Mitigation To be (incl. methods & of (incl. review and (equipment
Measure Monitored equipment) Measurement reporting) &
individuals)
Construction Phase
Construction code Dust Landfill site Visual inspection Site operator Included in
of practice operating
contract
Operation and Maintenance Phase
Landfill design Leachate levels Landfill site Depth Site operator Included in
within each sub- operating
area of the landfill contract
Landfill design Landfill Gas Landfill site Methane gas analysis once a year Site operator Included in
operating
contract
Landfill design Leachate analysis Landfill site Water quality parameters once a year Site operator Included in
(SS, COD) operating
contract
Landfill site Inspection of all Landfill site Visual inspection daily Site operator Included in
operations manual roads in the operating
landfill area and of contract
the fence during
filling process
Landfill site Inspection of all Landfill site Visual inspection weekly Site operator Included in
operations manual roads in the operating
landfill area, the contract
fence and the

- 109 -
recultivated areas
after closing time
Closure and Aftercare Phase

Landfill design landfill gas Landfill site Methane gas analysis Once a year Site operator Included in
operating
contract
Landfill design Leakage from any Landfill Visual inspection of Once a year Site operator Included in
of the containment site leachate monitoring operating
barriers manholes contract
Total Cost for Included in
All Phases operating
contract

- 110 -
C: Institutional Strengthening and Training for Implementation
Institutional Position(s) Scheduling Responsibilities Cost

Strengthening Activity (Institutions, PIUs, Estimates
contractors, construction
supervision consultants)
Mitigation
Development and Consultant Immediately JSC-H&B Provided in

implementation of the project budget
Abbreviated Resettlement
Action Plans
st
$35,000 ( 50 % of the 1
Preparation of manuals and year of the TA
guidelines consultancy
contract)
nd
Monitoring During JSC-H&B $35,000 ( 50 % of the 2
Landfill operator construction of the year of the TA
first cell consultancy
JSC-H&B contract)
Participating municipalities’
SWM staff
II Training Activity Participants Types of Content (modules, Scheduling Cost
Training etc.) Estimates
EMP Implementation, Learning-by-doing Operating a sanitary During $20,000
Re-design, Conflict EQA, JSC-H&B and Workshops landfill construction of
participating municipalities’ the first cell
Resolution, etc.
SWM staff
Environmental Contractors Learning-by-doing Environmental and During $20,000
Processes, Methods social management construction of
the first cell
& Equipment

- 111 -
Environmental EQA, JSC-H&B and Learning-by-doing Preparing First 2 years of $20,000
Policies & Programs participating municipalities’ environmental bylaws construction
SWM staff
Visits to
demonstration sites

- 112 -
Environmental Management Plan
D Scheduling and Reporting

- 113 -
Year 1 Year 2 Year 3 Subsequent years
(until year 25)
Activity Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4
Mitigation Measures
a. - Landfill design
b. Landfill site operations
manual
c. Project Component 2
design
d. Waste collection
company operation
manual
e. Transfer station
operation manual
f. Abbreviated
Resettlement Plan
(Landowners)
g. Abbreviated
Resettlement Plan
(Waste pickers and
Herdsmen)
Monitoring
a. Dust

- 114 -
(until year 25)
b. Leachate levels within
each sub-area of the
landfill
c. Landfill Gas
d. Leachate analysis
e. Inspection of roads and
fence during filling
f. Inspection of roads and
fence during after
closing time
g. Landfill gas during
closure and aftercare
phase
h. Leakage from
containment barriers
during closure and
aftercare phase
Institutional Strengthening
a. Development and
implementation of the
Abbreviated

- 115 -
(until year 25)
Resettlement Action
Plans
b. Preparation of manuals
and guidelines
Training
a. Operating a sanitary
landfill
b. Environmental and
social management
c. Preparing
environmental bylaws

- 116 -
٩.٣ Implementation arrangements
The implementation responsibility of this Project will be with the JSC-H&B with close cooperation and
coordination with MoLG and the EQA.
A Technical Operations Unit (TOU) acting as the executive arm of the JSC-H&B will be responsible for
all contracting, monitoring, reporting and supervision of works throughout project life. The TOU will be
aided by specialized individual and consulting firms to carry out the various activities including the
implementation of relevant items in the EMP. Similarly, the EQA will carry out its responsibilities as
delineated by the Palestinian Environmental Law.
This Project would further develop such capacity by financing (a) additional training to specific
operational staff at the JSC-H&B-TOU, EQA and participating municipalities, (b) the recruitment of a
specialized environment consulting firm who would work closely with the JSC-H&B-TOU team and
would be responsible for reviewing, advising and reporting on environmental issues throughout the
project life. The environmental firm will also assist the project municipalities to develop their capacities
for better solid waste management service delivery.
- 117 -
١٠ CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
١٠.١ Conclusions
It is concluded that the key-negative impacts of the proposed landfill development are considered to be
of 'moderate' significance.
It is concluded that the key potential negative impacts identified in this environmental analysis can be
minimized in the sanitary landfill design and through good operational practice and all of the risks
identified above can be reduced to acceptable levels. For example:
The conceptual site design takes into account the potential impact of contamination of water
resources as a result of leachate emissions. A high standard of leachate containment and
management is a fundamental aspect of the proposed site design;
the risk of exposure to/explosion of landfill gas is minimized through site design which should
include passive venting and landfill gas monitoring.
the potential impact from noise, dust and odor at the site can be minimized through site design
and good operational practice which should be strictly enforced;
litter impacts can be greatly minimized by mitigation measures which include the operation of
small waste cells and litter screens, as necessary.
As most of the potential impacts are such that they will be felt by the local community in the vicinity of
the site it is considered necessary that further public consultation and discussion be carried out to
involve them in the project implementation process. The benefits of this include:
To further explain the operational aspects of sanitary landfilling and the advantages this
method of waste disposal will have on environment. This should focus on the improvements to
waste disposal that will be introduced (such as the elimination of burning, covering of waste,
use of litter screens etc.);
to help determine the community's perspective on possible mitigation measures; and
to explain to the residents the likely method of on-going liaison between themselves and the
authority responsible for waste disposal at the new landfill site.
The need for good environmental management throughout the operational and 'after-care' period is
essential, and assuming this can be achieved and the local community are further consulted with
respect to the site construction and operation, these issues are not considered to be prohibitive to the
proposed development.
A main advantageous impact of the MSWM project is the closure of the randomly distributed unsanitary
LF's that created environmental and social nuisance for a long time. The closure of Yatta LF is an
environmental solution of a pollution problem that is first priority. The alternative sanitary proposed LF is
carefully selected and analyzed that is: Which is the most appropriate site to be used as a LF from
environmental and socioeconomic points of view? Centralization of the waste disposal is better from
environmental and risks points of view to deal with. This means that it's easier to handle and treat waste
in one site rather than dealing with several micro-sites.
The investigation of al-Menya site revealed that the site is with minimal social drawbacks and the
affected sector of the population is minor. The site is mostly bounded by hilly areas from two directions
with no inhabitants existing in its wind blowing direction. The site's geological and hydrological features
were tested and this is revealed by making boreholes drilling. The site topsoil is composed of
approximately 40% clay while the remained part is composed of a rocky area composed mostly of
massive and bedded limestone. The groundwater depth in the site is exceeding 200 m.
- 118 -
١٠.٢ Recommendations
There is a variety of ownership and organizational structures that is compatible with regionalizing waste
management around a central/regional landfill. However all institutional / organizational models require a
strong will for cooperation among municipalities participating in the regional system which is to be legally
set out, determination to reform or close down own municipal dump sites, as well as capabilities to
negotiate and contract out WM services to the private sector.
In order to stimulate the regionalization of waste management services, the following issues will have to
be addressed at both national and local levels:
o To define proper WM standards (for disposal – at national and for collection at local level);
o To ensure closure of incompliant municipal landfills;
o To set proper contracting and permitting rules (at national level) and to create a competitive
market for WM services (at local/regional level);
o To set appropriate cost recovery mechanisms and introduce financial economic instruments
(at national/municipal level);
o To improve efficiency and cost recovery rate (at local level); and
o To initiate and/or improve enforcement (at national and local levels).
It can be remarked that a ‘regional’ waste management entity, or an operational “Inter Municipal Public
Enterprise”, in this case the High Hebron-Bethlehem JSC, supported by all participating municipalities
on the long run may be in charge of the following activities:
o Preparing / updating of waste management plans at regional and municipal levels.
o Preparing amendments to existing municipal waste management regulations, as necessary for
the development of a regional waste management system.
o Owning all regional waste management assets, including old dump sites.
o Obtaining required permits for waste management facilities.
o Establishing tariffs and collecting the fees for the waste management services.
o Preparing competitive tender documentation for the provision of waste management facilities
and services (including, eventually, municipal waste collection).
o Awarding contracts / franchises to appropriately experienced private sector companies for the
provision of waste management facilities and services.
o Monitoring and controlling the performance of contractors / franchisees to ensure that the
services are provided to the appropriate quality and in accordance with contract / franchise
conditions.
o Developing and implementing a public awareness and communications campaign.
Initially the regional SWM entity would have responsibility for ensuring the provision and operation of all
regional waste management facilities, including landfill sites and transfer stations. These tasks could be
executed by own staff / operators, or (partially) to be contracted out to private sector organizations by
competitive tender.
Several possible organizational structures of the operation company are available. The most desired
option for each region may be decided by the municipalities – founders and the international donors.
Basic precondition to have such institutional arrangements in place will be the setting of rules for
contracting and permitting of WM operators.
- 119 -

Revised ESIA April, 2 2009

Uploaded by

Document Information

Original Description:

Copyright

Available Formats

Share this document

Share or Embed Document

Sharing Options

Did you find this document useful?

Is this content inappropriate?

Copyright:

Available Formats

Revised ESIA April, 2 2009

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

Environmental & Social

Impact Assessment Report

Southern West Bank Solid Waste

Southern West Bank Joint Service

Municipal Development and Lending Fund

Southern West Bank Solid Waste

Southern West Bank Joint Service

١. To improve solid waste management in Hebron and Bethlehem Governorates

• Traffic Impacts: The movements of large vehicles, sometimes on small roads

PART A –- FEASIBILITY STUDY

The Terms of Reference are attached at Annex A.

١.٢ Project Objectives

١.٣.١ The Project Planning Cycle

١.٣.٢ Status of the Design Proposals

١.٣.٣ Assessment and Mitigation of Significant Impacts

• Existing baseline conditions within the receiving environment;

١.٣.٤ Approach of the ESIA

Sources of Data and Information

• current institutional framework for SWM in the West Bank;

And identifies, defines and evaluates:

• the suitability of the project proposals from an environmental perspective;

The ESIA report contributes to these goals by:

٢.٢ Institutional Framework

٢.٢.٢ Environmental Oversight of Solid Waste Management

٢.٣ Institutional Responsibilities

٢.٣.١ Local Authorities

Ministry of Environmental Affairs now Environment Quality Authority

Ministry of Local Government

Ministry of Health (MoH)

Ministry of National Economy (MoNE)

Ministry of Planning and International Co-operation (MoPIC)

Ministry of Civil Affairs

٢.٣.٣ Palestinian Water Authority (PWA)

٢.٣.٥ Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs)

٢.٤ Legislation and Policy

٢.٤.١ Environmental Legislation

• Jordanian Public Health Law, 1966;

Articles I, 12 and 13 deal with hazardous materials and wastes, viz.:

٢.٤.٢ Enforcement of Regulations

٢.٤.٣ Palestinian Environmental Policy and Planning

٢.٤.٤ Environmental Impact Assessment

٢.٤.٥ International Environmental Assessment Guidelines

• Existing baseline environmental conditions;

٢.٥ Project Approval Requirements

٢.٥.١ Project Proponent

٢.٥.٢ Project Approving Agencies (West Bank and Israeli)

Compensation Measures for Loss of Land in Productive Use

• landfill sites, including all aspects of site engineering;

Figure 3.1: Map showing location of Potential Landfill Sites

Location of the preferred landfill (nr. 12)

٣.٢.١ Sources of Municipal Solid Waste

Table 3.1: Solid Waste Generation per capita in Hebron Governorate

Population size based on earlier published projected values by PCBS

* Population size based on earlier published projected values by PCBS

٣.٢.٢ Characteristics of Municipal Solid Waste

The staffing at the site comprises:

٣.٢.٤ Anticipated Future Needs

Table 3.4: Summary of Assumptions used in Waste Generation Forecast

Table 3.6: Total waste generation Hebron-Bethlehem governorates (2010-2030)

٣.٣ Alternative Waste Collection and Transfer Options

٣.٣.١ Introduction and Background

١. the ‘zero’ option - continuation of existing collection and disposal practices;

٣.٣.٢ The “Zero Option”