Environmental Assessment
Volume C-3.4
Slurry Pipeline
Noise
Ambatovy Project
35
January 2006
3.4
NOISE
3.4.1
Introduction
The noise assessment provides an impact analysis of the proposed Ambatovy
Project (the project) and identifies the potential effects of sound emissions
associated with the proposed project activities. In this volume of the
Environmental Assessment (EA), project activities associated with the slurry
pipeline are assessed. Information is provided on existing noise levels in the
area, potential sources of sound emissions associated with the project and the
potential for changes in noise levels that may to result from the pipeline.
The potential noise issue identified in the EA due to the slurry pipeline is due to
construction activity.
The focus of the pipeline noise assessment is on determining the potential for
changes to the existing ambient noise levels due to project construction and
comparing the results with noise guidelines from the World Bank. The
assessment is conducted from the point of view of human response. The effects
of noise on wildlife are assessed in Volume C, Section 4.2. Noise is also an input
to the analysis of social effects in Volume C, Section 5.1 (Socioeconomics).
An introduction to the key outdoor acoustics concepts used in the assessment is
provided in Volume B, Section 3.5.1.
3.4.2
Study Areas
The noise assessment is a qualitative assessment of the area occupied by the
slurry pipeline. Sound emitted from construction activities will be localized to
the active construction area and there will not be any noise during the operations
phase that will affect receptors near the route.
3.4.3
Baseline Summary
3.4.3.1 Introduction
A baseline noise study was conducted for the Ambatovy Project to establish
existing noise levels at the proposed development areas as well as to provide
information for the noise impact assessment. Establishing existing noise levels
was also necessary in order to use the World Bank noise criteria.
