MONITORING RESULTS

The Environmental Management Plan (EMP) is implemented by a specialist team of environmental personnel based at the desalination plant and along the pipeline and power alignment.

These teams form an important part of the construction team, helping to ensure environmental impacts are minimised during day-to-day construction activities.

AquaSure has also appointed an environmental management representative who serves as the environmental leader for the project and ensures that all work is carried out in compliance with the Environmental Management System and EMP.

Additionally, an Independent Reviewer and Environmental Auditor has been appointed to review and report on the project’s environmental performance. This role will continue throughout the construction and operational phases of the project.

The project team is also working closely with a range of government stakeholders to ensure that environmental management controls and the EMP are implemented in an effective manner.

These stakeholders include the Department of Environment and Sustainability (DSE), the Environment Protection Authority (EPA), the Department of Primary Industries (DPI), Melbourne Water, South Gippsland Water, South East Water, local councils and catchment management authorities.

Marine monitoring

Extensive marine surveys were carried out as part of the Environment Effects Statement.

Marine monitoring is being undertaken, including habitat and ecosystem mapping, flora and fauna surveys and water quality monitoring. The marine monitoring will help confirm the location of the intake and outlet structures.

A marine monitoring program for the operational phase of the project is also being developed.