2 Description of the environment

Give a brief description of the natural and man-made surroundings in which the project is to be located. Where appropriate the information should be presented as topical charts and illustrations. Sources as well as the reliability of the presented information should be indicated briefly.

The description should contain an account of:

• The climatic, geological and soil conditions in the area.

• The hydrological conditions in the area. The characteristics of the water sources affected.

• Vulnerable and/or conservation-worthy animal species, plant species and ecosystems in the affected area.

• Unique natural or cultural areas, or objects of historic, archeological, cultural, aesthetic or scientific value.

• Main aspects of the existing utilization of areas and natural resources in the affected regions, including extensive utilization of natural areas.

• Demographic aspects, such as size and composition of affected population groups and any existing ethnic diversity etc.

• The settlement pattern and means of production, specified for each ethnic group, class, and caste where relevant. Division of labour organized on the basis of gender and age within these groups.

• The health situation with emphasis on environmentally related diseases.

• Any existing or planned activities that may hold consequences for aquaculture.