Implementing the Social Dimension of ESHIA at Chevron

Abstract

Abstract Expectations for corporate responsibility are growing. In response to these and other trends, Chevron has developed a standardized process for Environmental Social and Health Impact Assessment (ESHIA). The objective of ESHIA is to identify and mitigate the impacts of new projects on the environment and local communities. The process includes a set of basic requirements to foster industry-leading ESHIA performance, including (1) integrating environmental impact assessment (EIA), social impact assessment (SIA) and health impact assessment (HIA) into a single process; (2) initiating ESHIA early in the project development cycle so that environmental, social and health factors can be appropriately considered in business decision-making and engineering design; (3) proactively engaging community and other stakeholders to better understand potential impacts and identify effective mitigation; and (4) developing management plans to ensure effective implementation of mitigation measures during project construction and operations. This paper describes issues Chevron has encountered and solutions it has developed in implementing the social dimension of ESHIA and solutions developed to overcome them. Issues have included: (1) increasing awareness of the business value of SIA and stakeholder engagement; (2) limited experience with SIA principles, procedures and application; and (3) the need for effective integration between functional groups. Solutions have included: (1) compilation of real-world case studies to demonstrate the business value of SIA; (2) delivery of fit-for-purpose SIA training; and (3) development of internal and external networks of ESHIA practitioners to support SIA application. Preliminary results have been promising. SIA training participants have demonstrated improved understanding of SIA principles and procedures. Major capital projects have started to apply SIA. Nevertheless, Chevron is still in the early phases of SIA implementation. Next steps in building SIA organizational capability will include follow-up training with individual business units, project-level support, and formation of a SIA practitioner network to identify common issues and share best practices. Successful implementation of SIA will improve project decision-making; help build long-term, harmonious relationships with community and other key stakeholders; and strengthen overall social performance.