Insufficient resources and capacity – In one instances, the Contractor would complain that they did not have sufficient funds/ resources and capacity to comply with the Environmental Safeguards Requirements. An example that I encountered was when the Contractor was discharging silt contaminated washing-water to the environment. I clearly explained that washing-water can be clarified in a siltation pond and even reused for their operations – thus, minimizing impacts to the environment and effecting some resource re-use. In this instance, it was more of lack of resourcefulness (not lack of resources) that was the problem. Part of my tasks in Environmental Safeguards was to seek solution and present them for mutual agreement. My work experience dealing with actual construction problems provided ample opportunities to try innovative solutions which worked in other projects.
Overall, I can mention that my work experiences in Environmental Safeguard provided me opportunities to see what works and what does not. In addition, certain policy gaps were also discovered in the concerned agencies through my discussions with Clients which can serve as opportunities for further enhancements.
