Environmental and Social Management

Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) is a fundamental component of today's investment projects. This process aims to examine and evaluate the potential impacts of a project on the environment and society using scientific approaches, minimize the negative consequences of these impacts, and maximize the positive ones. It also aims to ensure that the project takes appropriate measures to generate as many positive outcomes as possible.

The EIA process for the Mersin Çeşmeli-Kızkalesi Highway Project began in February 2022 with field studies conducted by experts. During this process, key reference points were determined in terms of both the physical and biological environment, and the social structure of the region was examined in detail. In the initial phase, sensitive groups that would be affected by the project were taken into consideration, and fundamental findings reflecting the current situation were obtained. Subsequently, measurements and field studies continued on a regular basis.

Within the scope of EIA studies, factors such as climate, air quality, geology, soil structure, natural resources and waste management, water resources, noise, vibration, landscape and visual impact, and biodiversity are considered in the project's area of influence. From a social impact assessment perspective, issues such as human rights, working conditions, gender equality, demographic structure, land use, economy, employment, livelihoods of local communities, education, public health, security, and cultural heritage are examined. All individuals, communities, and institutions that may be affected by the project have been contacted, and an effective consultation process with the public has been carried out and continues to be carried out. As a result of these processes, improvements and revisions have been made to the project, taking into account the physical and biological environment, cultural heritage, livelihoods, and social benefits in the project's area of impact. These revisions have also been reflected in the EIA Report.

Mersin Highway Investment and Operation Inc. (MOI) developed the project design and implementation by taking into account the findings of the EIA studies and the best practices in accordance with international environmental and social standards. To date, the EIA Report, the non-technical summary of the EIA Report integrated with this report, the Environmental and Social Action Plan, the Stakeholder Participation Plan, the Resettlement Action Plan, and the Livelihood Improvement Plan, obtained as a result of studies conducted by independent experts, have been submitted for public review.