Wetlands and Endangered Species Management

摘要

The requirements associated with identifying and managing wetlands and endangered species have expanded globally in the past ten years. The development of a system which enables companies to meet compliance requirements when selecting new facility locations is a necessary component of the due diligence process. Oftentimes, it is necessary to develop property that is adjacent to or includes areas of protected wetlands, endangered species and sensitive environments. The development can be achieved in a manner that meets the business operational needs and supports sensitive ecosystems. This paper compares and outlines the emerging trends in regulatory approaches to wetlands and endangered species globally and describes methodologies that companies can utilize to identify sensitive areas and develop appropriate protection plans. Specific case studies are reviewed for environmental impact assessments conducted in Iraq, Egypt along with a review of endangered species identification requirements for a facility in Colombia. The management plans are discussed with regard to components and integration into facility management. Wetlands identification in the United States is highlighted with case studies in Louisiana, Massachusetts and Ohio which are reviewed to demonstrate processes for identifying wetlands and developing wetlands maintenance and management plans. The paper also discusses alternatives to wetlands management plans where business development necessitates the “taking” of wetlands and the implications for jurisdictional wetlands, wetlands offsets, and wetlands banks. The paper’s discussion of wetlands is expanded from just the United States to compare the developing trends in global regulatory approaches and requirements. The paper outlines the methodology for identifying sensitive environments and the necessity for corporations to adopt a comprehensive and systematic process for validating cost and impact while also meeting business needs that enhance and protect a corporation’s reputation and social responsibility. To maintain their status as responsible corporate citizens, companies must continue to monitor global trends in this area, identify critical requirements and establish comprehensive and systematic management strategies. By employing effective management strategies for wetlands and endangered species as outlined in this paper, companies can protect sensitive environments while meeting their business needs in sustainable manner.