CENTRAL MANGROVE WETLAND
Statement on the final Terms of Reference for the EIA for the East-West Arterial
May 6, 2023
The final terms of reference (ToR) forming the basis of the EIA for the East-West Arterial extension have been published. Sustainable Cayman’s consultation response to the draft ToR addressed four critical considerations which we believe the ToR must include to enable the EIA to achieve its objectives. It also included further important considerations which we believe should be incorporated into the ToR.
We are extremely pleased to see that our suggestion of increasing the induced growth study area to 1.5 miles has been included in the updated ToR. This will enable a better evaluation of the potential future development along the proposed road corridor, showing the knock on effects of such a development. This acknowledges the potential threat that this route poses to the future existence of the Central Mangrove Wetland as we know it today and the critical services it provides Caymanians.
However, our other critical considerations relating to a commitment of critical habitat re-establishment at a ratio of 1:30 and demonstration of Biodiversity Net Gain in accordance with the IFC Standards, and the inclusion of Marine ecology as a stand-alone receptor have not been taken on board.
We are disappointed to see that there is still no mention of the impacts of artificial lighting or embedded Greenhouse Gas emissions in relation to the impact assessment. We would also like to see a more in-depth Alternative Alignments Evaluation. Not just for the assessment to look into alternatives within the chosen ‘corridor’.
Sustainable Cayman hopes that the National Roads Authority uses these updated ToR as a strong starting point to produce a robust and responsible Environmental Impact Assessment of the proposed East West Arterial extension.