Sustainability assessment in transboundary context: Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam

Abstract

Sustainability assessment of Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam is assessed in transboundary context, using Rapid Impact Assessment Matrix (RIAM) technique. RIAM indicates that in both Physical and Chemical category and Biological and Ecological category, there are major negative impacts for both upstream and downstream countries. On the other hand, the RIAM indicates that in Sociological and Cultural category and Economic and Operational category will have a positive impact in upstream countries and negative impacts in downstream countries. The result is not intended to substitute for a full assessment of impacts, only to help shed light on some of the issues that deserve greater attention. The study concludes RIAM is a useful tool for decision makers as it is able to display the results of different development scenarios and produce transparent environmental solutions, even with very complex options. RIAM is an effective technique in environmental impact assessment, in particular with very complicated transboundary context as verified in this study. It is hoped that the realistic ability of RIAM in dealing with transboundary context is paved the way to full approval of both upstream and downstream countries in achieving sustainable development for shared water resources.