The effectiveness of the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) follow-up with regard to biodiversity conservation in Azerbaijan

Purpose - The paper aims to investigate the effectiveness of the EIA adopted by the construction industry during the construction of the BTC Oil Pipeline Project in Azerbaijan from 2003-2005. The focus of the study is to examine the performance of the Biodiversity conservation measures on the Territory of Gobustan Area. The area is considered as bad land and environmentally sensitive. The environmental impacts and the corresponding mitigation measures are to be highlighted. Design/methodology/approach - The paper uses a pre-entry survey as a bench mark against which mitigation measures, for restoring biodiversity to project pre-construction conditions. The Pre-entry survey identifies the biodiversity inventory of the study area. The implementation of mitigation measures with respect to biodiversity is used to examine the extent of compliance with environmental requirements. The extent of compliance is based on field observations, specialist interviews and reviewing reports published by independent bodies. Findings - The paper finds that the reasons behind compliance or non-compliance with environmental requirements as outlined in the Environmental Impact Statement are explored. In other words, the factors that shape the EIA follow-up process are highlighted. Practical implications - The paper shows that the establishment of an integrated environmental monitoring system is central to the success of the EIA follow-up. Environmental best practices can be adopted successfully despite the fact that the national environmental system is not yet well established. Originality/value - The studied case in the paper, which is based on observation and thorough analysis of the practical work, can serve as an example for emerging environmental governance system.