Environmental Baseline Studies

Accurate baseline data of current environmental conditions is needed to track the long-term performance of the project’s Environmental Management System. The project’s environmental baseline studies were re-established in 2007 to include water quality, meteorological and aquatic biota monitoring. The studies have been extended to encompass both the project area and surrounding areas, where project infrastructure may potentially be located, and to ensure that high quality data is routinely collected. Additional baseline monitoring programs will be introduced in 2008.

Community Based Monitoring Program

The Community-Based Environmental Monitoring Program (CBEMP) is a multi-sector partnership in which members of the Tampakan and Columbio communities monitor and report on water quality and meteorological conditions. In 2007, we provided extensive training to CBEMP members to increase their capacity to undertake monitoring programs.
In addition, CBEMP members play an advocacy role through their environmental awareness campaigns and reforestation activities. They also work closely with local government and environmental agencies in the implementation of their environmental programs. A CBEMP will be established with the Kiblawan community in 2008.