Surname & Initials: Bobie BA

Student No.: 240693078

Module: Environmental Studies (ECENS4A)
Lecturer: Mrs M Beer
Assignment 1
Submition Date: 22 March 2024

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Table of Contents
1. Background and scope of the project. ................................................................................................. 3
Interested and affected parties ............................................................................................................... 4
2. Anticipated environmental impacts ........................................................................................... 5

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 1. Background and scope of the project.

The project discussed in the provided text encompasses the construction and operation of two controversial
dam projects: the Three Gorges Dam in China and the Gibe III Dam in Ethiopia. Both projects are large-
scale hydroelectric developments aimed at addressing energy needs and stimulating economic growth in
their respective countries. However, they have been subject to significant controversy due to their potential
adverse impacts on the environment, wildlife, and local communities.

1.1. Three Gorges Dam (China)

- Construction of the Three Gorges Dam commenced in 1992 on the Yangtze River in China. The dam,
stretching over two kilometers across the river, aims primarily to provide flood control and hydroelectric
power generation.
- Once completed, it will be the largest hydropower plant in the world, with a total capacity of 22,500
megawatts. The reservoir created by the dam is over 660 kilometers in length.
- Despite its intended benefits, the project has faced significant criticism for its adverse environmental and
social impacts, including habitat destruction, displacement of communities, and ecological disruption.

1.2. Gibe III Dam (Ethiopia)

- The Gibe III Dam is part of Ethiopia's strategy to provide electricity to its population and drive economic
growth. Located on the Omo River, it is the third in a series of hydroelectric projects in the region.
- The dam, with a planned capacity of 1,800 megawatts, aims to regulate the Omo River's flow, provide
year-round navigation, and generate electricity.
- Similar to the Three Gorges Dam, the Gibe III project has been met with criticism, particularly regarding
its potential impacts on local communities, biodiversity, and downstream ecosystems, such as Lake
Turkana.

Background and Scope of the Projects:

- Both projects reflect broader national development strategies aimed at addressing energy needs and
promoting economic growth.
- The construction and operation of large dams involve complex decision-making processes that weigh
economic benefits against environmental and social costs.
- The controversies surrounding these projects highlight the importance of conducting comprehensive
Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs) and involving stakeholders in decision-making processes.

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 - Despite efforts to mitigate negative impacts, concerns persist regarding habitat destruction,
displacement of communities, alteration of river dynamics, and loss of biodiversity.
- The scope of these projects extends beyond national borders, as they can impact downstream
ecosystems and communities, as well as international relations, especially concerning energy exports.
- The case studies of the Three Gorges and Gibe III dams underscore the need for transparent decision-
making, inclusive public participation, and thorough assessment of alternatives to minimize adverse
impacts and ensure sustainable development.

Interested and affected parties

It is evident that the construction and operation of large dams such as the Three Gorges Dam in China and
the Gibe III Dam in Ethiopia pose significant challenges and controversies. These challenges span
economic, environmental, and social dimensions, and they underscore the importance of comprehensive
assessment and decision-making processes.

One of the key issues highlighted is the inadequacy of environmental impact assessments (EIAs) in fully
capturing the potential impacts of these dam projects. The EIAs conducted for both the Three Gorges and
Gibe III dams have been criticized for their limited consideration of alternative options, insufficient scientific
analysis, and unrealistic mitigation measures. Moreover, the lack of public consultation and participation
further exacerbates these shortcomings, particularly in the case of the Three Gorges Dam, where public
debate was suppressed by the Chinese government.

The impacts of these dams extend beyond their immediate physical environments, affecting biodiversity,
water quality, and the livelihoods of local communities. The disruption of natural river dynamics and the
alteration of ecosystems have led to the decline of species such as the Yangtze River dolphin and the
Chinese Sturgeon, while also threatening the food security and well-being of indigenous peoples living in
the affected regions.

Furthermore, the economic rationale behind these dam projects, particularly their role in energy production
and export, raises questions about their true benefits to local populations. In both cases, significant
numbers of people have been displaced without adequate compensation or resettlement assistance,
leading to social upheaval and loss of livelihoods.

In light of these challenges, it is imperative for decision-makers to adopt a more inclusive and transparent
approach to dam planning and implementation. This includes meaningful engagement with all stakeholders,
rigorous assessment of alternative options, and proactive measures to mitigate adverse impacts on the
environment and local communities. Only through such comprehensive and participatory processes can the

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sustainable development potential of large dam projects be realized while minimizing their negative
consequences.

2. Anticipated environmental impacts

The anticipated environmental impacts of large dam projects such as the Three Gorges and the Gibe III
dams are considerable and multifaceted. These impacts span across various dimensions, including but
not limited to:

2.1 Alteration of Natural Flood Cycles: Large dams disrupt natural flood cycles, leading to
downstream effects such as loss of vegetation cover, increased sedimentation, and changes in water
quality. This alteration affects ecosystems and can have long-term consequences on the health of river
systems.

2.2 Water Quality Degradation: Dams like the Three Gorges and Gibe III can lead to water quality
degradation. In the case of the Three Gorges Dam, it traps silt and pollutants, impacting water quality in
the Yangtze River. Similarly, the Gibe III Dam is expected to reduce downstream flow, potentially
increasing water salinity in Lake Turkana.

2.3 Loss of Biodiversity: The construction of large dams results in the flooding of habitats, threatening
biodiversity. Species such as the Yangtze River dolphin and various fish species have been adversely
affected by the Three Gorges Dam. Similarly, the Gibe III Dam poses a threat to the biodiversity of
Lake Turkana and the Omo Basin.

2.4 Displacement of Communities: Large dam projects often entail the displacement of communities
residing in the project area. The Three Gorges Dam, for instance, displaced over a million people,
leading to significant social upheaval and challenges in resettlement. Similarly, communities in the
Lower Omo Valley face threats to their livelihoods due to the Gibe III Dam.

2.5 Impact on Agriculture and Livelihoods: The inundation of land and alteration of riverine
ecosystems can significantly impact agriculture and livelihoods dependent on river resources. Both the
Three Gorges and Gibe III dams have implications for food security and the sustainability of local
livelihoods.

2.6 Greenhouse Gas Emissions: Contrary to expectations, large dams like the Three Gorges Dam
can be sources of greenhouse gas emissions. Methane emissions from vegetation submerged by dam
reservoirs contribute to climate change, challenging the notion of hydropower as a clean energy
source.

2.7 Limited Assessment of Alternatives: Critically, both projects have been criticized for
inadequately assessing alternatives. The failure to consider a comprehensive range of options
undermines the decision-making process and can result in the neglect of potentially more sustainable
alternatives.

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 Overall, the environmental impacts of large dam projects are complex and far-reaching, affecting
ecosystems, biodiversity, and human communities. Adequate assessment and consideration of
alternatives are essential to mitigate these impacts and ensure the sustainability of such projects.

3. Specialists required or appointed for the EIA

Specialists required or appointed for the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) would likely include
experts in various fields relevant to the assessment of the dam projects. These may include:

3.1 Environmental Scientists/Biologists: To assess the impact on biodiversity, water quality, and
ecosystems, as well as to study the potential effects on endangered species and habitats.

3.2. Hydrologists: To analyze the changes in water flow, sediment transport, and flood patterns
caused by the dams, and to evaluate the potential risks of landslides and erosion.

3.3. Engineers: To evaluate the structural integrity of the dams, assess the potential for construction-
related impacts such as habitat destruction or water pollution, and to propose mitigation measures for
these impacts.

3.4. Social Scientists: To study the socio-economic impacts on local communities, including
displacement, loss of livelihoods, and changes in cultural practices, as well as to assess the adequacy
of resettlement plans and the potential for social conflict.

3.5. Economists: To evaluate the economic costs and benefits of the dam projects, including the
potential for revenue generation, energy production, and the long-term sustainability of the projects.

3.6. Legal Experts: To ensure compliance with national and international regulations, assess the legal
rights of affected communities, and provide guidance on legal frameworks for environmental protection
and community participation.

3.7. Risk Assessment Specialists: To identify and assess potential risks associated with dam
construction and operation, including the risk of dam failure, environmental disasters, and the impacts
of climate change.

3.8. Public Health Experts:To assess the potential health impacts of the dams, including changes in
water quality, the spread of waterborne diseases, and the availability of healthcare services for affected
communities.

3.9. Ethnographers/Anthropologists: To study the cultural significance of the affected areas, assess
the impacts on indigenous communities and traditional lifestyles, and provide insights into community
perspectives and values.

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 3.10. Stakeholder Engagement Specialists: To facilitate meaningful participation of all stakeholders
in the decision-making process, ensure transparency and accountability, and promote dialogue
between project developers, government agencies, and affected communities.

These specialists would work together to conduct comprehensive assessments of the environmental,
social, economic, and cultural impacts of the dam projects, and to develop appropriate strategies for
mitigating negative effects and maximizing benefits. Their expertise and insights would be crucial for
informing decision-makers and the public about the potential consequences of the projects and for
guiding the development of sustainable and socially responsible policies and practices.

4. Feedback from the specialists

It is evident that the construction and operation of large dam projects, such as the Three Gorges Dam
in China and the Gibe III Dam in Ethiopia, present complex challenges with far-reaching implications for
the environment, society, and economy. The information provided below by specialists highlights
several key issues that need to be addressed:

4.1. Environmental Impacts: Both dams have significant environmental consequences, including
habitat destruction, alteration of water flow dynamics, and threats to biodiversity. The Three Gorges
Dam has already led to the functional extinction of certain species in the Yangtze River, while the Gibe
III Dam is expected to affect the biodiversity of Lake Turkana and the Lower Omo Basin.

4.2. Social Impacts: The displacement of communities and loss of livelihoods are major concerns
associated with large dam projects. Both the Three Gorges and Gibe III dams have resulted in the
forced relocation of thousands of people, with potential long-term implications for food security, health,
and cultural heritage.

4.3. Economic Considerations: While dams can provide economic benefits such as electricity
generation and flood control, the distribution of these benefits is often uneven. In both cases, there are
questions about who ultimately benefits from the projects, particularly in terms of electricity exports and
revenue generation.

4.4. Decision-making Processes: The lack of comprehensive assessment and public consultation in
the planning and implementation of these dam projects is concerning. Decisions should be based on
transparent processes that consider the needs and rights of all stakeholders, as outlined by the World
Commission on Dams.

4.5. Environmental Assessment: There are shortcomings in the environmental impact assessment
(EIA) processes for both dams, including the inadequate consideration of alternative options and
cumulative impacts. This raises questions about the reliability of the assessments and the effectiveness
of mitigation measures.

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 In conclusion, the case studies of the Three Gorges and Gibe III dams underscore the importance of
adopting a holistic approach to dam development that integrates environmental, social, and economic
considerations. It is crucial to involve all stakeholders in decision-making processes and to conduct
thorough and transparent assessments to minimize adverse impacts and maximize benefits for both
present and future generations.

5. Problems or issues involving the project

Several problems and issues involving the dam projects emerge:

5.1. Lack of comprehensive environmental impact assessment (EIA): Both the Three Gorges Dam
and the Gibe III Dam projects faced criticism for inadequate assessment of their environmental
impacts. In the case of the Three Gorges Dam, alternatives were not thoroughly considered, and the
full range of relevant social, environmental, and economic issues was not adequately addressed.
Similarly, the Gibe III ESIA was criticized for poor preparation, insufficient scientific analysis, and
unrealistic mitigation measures.

5.2. Disregard for public participation: Despite the emphasis by the WCD report on involving all
stakeholders in decision-making processes regarding major dam projects, public participation was
often ignored or limited. In the case of the Three Gorges Dam, the Chinese government forbade public
debate and imprisoned critics, while the consultation for the Gibe III Dam was neither inclusive nor
open, particularly for affected indigenous communities.

5.3. Negative impacts on biodiversity and ecosystems: Both dam projects resulted in significant
alterations to river ecosystems, leading to threats to biodiversity. The Three Gorges Dam contributed to
the functional extinction of the Yangtze River dolphin and endangered other species, while the Gibe III
Dam is expected to affect biodiversity in Lake Turkana and the lower Omo Basin.

5.4. Adverse effects on local communities: The construction and operation of both dams have led to
the displacement of thousands of people and the loss of land and livelihoods. The impacted
communities, particularly indigenous groups, have faced food insecurity, loss of access to resources,
and inadequate resettlement assistance.

5.5. Lack of consideration for cumulative impacts: The planning processes for both dam projects
failed to adequately consider the cumulative impacts of existing and planned developments
downstream and upstream of the dams. This lack of comprehensive assessment hampers the
evaluation of the full extent of the projects' impacts on the environment and local communities.

Overall, the dam projects highlighted in the case studies underscore the complexities and challenges
associated with large-scale infrastructure development, particularly in balancing economic development
with environmental conservation and social equity.

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 6. Mistakes made and lessons learnt from the project
The case studies of the Three Gorges Dam in China and the Gibe III Dam in Ethiopia illustrate several
mistakes and lessons learned in large dam projects:

6.1. Lack of Comprehensive Alternatives Assessment: One of the critical errors made in both
projects was the insufficient consideration of alternative options. In the case of the Three Gorges Dam,
no alternatives were seriously evaluated, and in the Gibe III Dam project, alternatives were limited and
dismissed without thorough consideration. This oversight deprived decision-makers of crucial
information regarding the potential impacts and benefits of different approaches, leading to suboptimal
outcomes.

6.2. Inadequate Public Participation: Both projects suffered from a lack of meaningful public
engagement. In the case of the Three Gorges Dam, the Chinese government suppressed public
debate and imprisoned critics, while in the Gibe III project, consultation was limited and conducted after
construction had already commenced. Meaningful public participation is essential for ensuring that
diverse perspectives and concerns are considered in decision-making processes, ultimately leading to
more informed and legitimate outcomes.

6.3. Insufficient Environmental and Social Impact Assessment: The environmental and social
impact assessments conducted for both projects were criticized for being inadequate and lacking
scientific rigor. These assessments failed to fully evaluate the potential risks and impacts on
ecosystems, biodiversity, and local communities. Additionally, mitigation measures were deemed
unrealistic and ineffective, further exacerbating negative consequences.

6.4. Disregard for Cumulative Impacts: Both projects neglected to adequately consider the
cumulative impacts of existing and planned developments on the surrounding environment and
communities. This oversight resulted in uncertainty regarding the additive and synergistic effects of
multiple projects, hindering the ability to accurately assess and mitigate potential harms.

6.5. Lack of Adaptation to Changing Contexts: Despite recognition of the importance of adapting to
changing contexts in the decision-making process, both projects demonstrated inflexibility in
responding to evolving circumstances. This rigidity limited the ability to address emerging challenges
and opportunities effectively.

From these mistakes, several key lessons can be learned for future dam projects:

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 - Prioritize Comprehensive Alternatives Assessment: Decision-makers should thoroughly evaluate
a wide range of alternative options, considering environmental, social, and economic factors, to identify
the most sustainable and socially equitable approach.

- Ensure Meaningful Public Participation: Meaningful engagement with stakeholders, including

affected communities, environmental organizations, and indigenous groups, is essential for fostering
transparency, accountability, and legitimacy in decision-making processes.

- Conduct Rigorous Environmental and Social Impact Assessment: Environmental and social
impact assessments should be conducted with scientific rigor and incorporate the latest data and
methodologies to accurately evaluate potential risks and impacts.

- Consider Cumulative Impacts: Decision-makers must consider the cumulative impacts of multiple
projects on the environment and communities to avoid underestimating potential harms and ensure
more holistic decision-making.

- Foster Adaptation and Flexibility: Decision-making processes should be adaptive and flexible,
allowing for adjustments in response to changing contexts, new information, and emerging challenges.

Overall, the mistakes made in the Three Gorges and Gibe III dam projects underscore the importance
of robust, inclusive, and evidence-based decision-making processes in large infrastructure projects,
particularly those with significant environmental and social implications.

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