Stakeholder engagement process in the EIA of an aluminium smelter

Pechiney is planning to build a new aluminium smelter, known as PAS 2005, and has identified the Coega Industrial Development Zone (IDZ) in South Africa as its preferred location. In investigating the environmental feasibility of the proposed smelter, Pechiney has commissioned CSIR, a South African science council, to conduct an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA). The objective of the EIA is to provide decision-makers with relevant and objective information that enables them to evaluate the extent to which the proposal will support sustainable development. The paper begins by sketching the aspects of the South African and local context that influenced the design of the stakeholder engagement process for this EIA. The objectives of the stakeholder engagement process are then presented. Thereafter, an over-view is provided of the key activities undertaken in order to achieve these objectives, drawing attention to the approach adopted to tailor information requirements to meet the needs of a wide range of stakeholders. The key learning points for Aluminium Pechiney are extrapolated and offered as a reference for proponents embarking on EIAs for similar projects. In conclusion, the design of a comprehensive and innovative stakeholder engagement process, adapted to the specific context for this proposed project, is considered to illustrate best practice in stakeholder engagement processes for a project of this nature.