An Appraisal of Environmental and Social Impact Assessment in Ethiopia: The Case of Meta Abo Brewery

Lemesa Hirpe,Seung Beom Seo

doi:10.3390/su14010133

Abstract

This study investigates the implementation and follow-up of the environmental and social impact assessment (ESIA) in Meta Abo Brewery in Ethiopia. Specifically, it aims to assess the implementation mechanism and status of ESIA monitoring and evaluation, the adequacy of the legal and administrative framework for ESIA implementation and follow-up, and the perception of residents towards the ESIA implementation and follow-up by the proponent. A mixed research approach was employed to collect and analyze both qualitative and quantitative data. Thematic and descriptive data analysis was used to analyze data collected through key informant interviews (KII), focus group discussion (FGD), closed-ended questions, and document review. Data were obtained from 11 purposely selected interviewees and 6 FGD participants, as well as 175 randomly selected respondents. This study found the practical implementation mechanism of ESIA monitoring and evaluation as well as weak ESIA monitoring and evaluation status through the case study. The main causes of this weak ESIA system are weak implementation of ESIA monitoring and evaluation by the regulatory body and proponent, weak cooperation among regulatory body and proponent, weak institutional capacity, and weak managerial commitments. The study also indicated a lack of adequate legal and administrative frameworks and the absence of regular revision of relevant legislation. Additionally, the study identified that the proponent has some weaknesses in the ESIA implementation and follow-up. The findings regarding the legal and administrative framework can be developed to guide the formulation and amendment of the ESIA legal and administrative framework not only for Ethiopia, but other developing countries as well. Moreover, the findings of this study can be a groundwork for future studies to fill the gap by understanding the social-cultural barrier and finding appropriate strategies to enhance the ESIA system in developing countries.

Highlights

The brewery industry contributes significantly to economic development [1].The brewery industry has a vital role in ensuring the sustainability of the local economy and connection, social interaction, health, and wellbeing of society [2]
The implementation mechanism of environmental and social impact assessment (ESIA) monitoring and evaluation indicates the practical operation of monitoring and evaluation processes by regulatory bodies and Sustainability 2021, 13, x FOR PEER REVIEW
The implementation mechanism of ESIA monitoring and evaluation indicates the practical operation of monitoring and evaluation processes by regulatory bodies and proponents to control the environmental and and social impacts of the project

Summary

Introduction

The brewery industry has a vital role in ensuring the sustainability of the local economy and connection, social interaction, health, and wellbeing of society [2]. It plays a basic role in promoting economic growth, in developing countries. Many breweries in Africa have adopted the ISO 14000 Environmental Management System Standards for the sake of international market interests [4]. This indicates that the environmental and social impacts resulting from the brewery industry have been a concern for many societies.

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Conclusion