Planning and Executing EIA Baseline Studies in Remote and Socio Economically Complex Regions With Potential for Uncontacted People: Practical Guidelines From Working in Northern Peru

Abstract

Abstract Environmental Resources Management (ERM) and HSE International, LLC (HSE LLC) are supporting energy companies developing hydrocarbon reserves in northern Peru. Concessions in this region are in various stages of exploration and require completion of an Environmental and Social Impact Assessment process to comply with Peruvian regulations. Baseline studies needed for this process include sampling of environmental, physical, and socioeconomic parameters. The region is remote and undeveloped; over 90% is covered by primary rainforest and inhabited by indigenous communities. The region also has some potential for the presence of uncontacted people or communities in voluntary isolation. This paper will highlight the steps taken by ERM, with the support from Dr. Martha Rodriguez (who is also a Profesor at Pontificia Universidad Catolica del Peru) and HSE LLC to prepare field teams for the responsibility of interacting with indigenous communities in remote jungle environments, as well as the eventuality of encountering uncontacted people. To date, we developed preventive measures and guidelines, a sociocultural contingency response plan for uncontacted communities or communities in voluntary isolation, and a communication protocol. These innovative and unique tools provide practical guidelines to minimize the risk for encounters with uncontacted people and outline steps in the event that such a contingency should occur. A process of due diligence was also undertaken to summarize publications, research, accounts, and hypotheses on the potential presence or transit of uncontacted people through particular areas. An evaluation of our clients' practices was completed to ensure consistency with policies, procedures, and reporting requirements. Contractors and employees were engaged via workshops and training. Finally, ERM Peru adopted a policy on working in areas potentially used by uncontacted peoples. The process, tools, and plans developed can serve as models for others working in the region or similar remote areas with the potential presence of uncontacted people or communities in voluntary isolation.