Modeling of Environmental Impact Assessment Based on RIAM and TOPSIS for Desalination and Operating Units

An environmental impact assessment is an assessment of the possible positive or negative impact that a proposed project may have on the environment, together consisting of the natural, social and economic aspects.  Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) of Masjid-I-Sulaiman desalination and operating unit’s project in the southern of Iran using Rapid Impact Assessment Matrix (RIAM) method is presented. The field is located between 32° 06' 53.60'' North and 40° 10' 54.18'' East, in the Masjid-I-Sulaiman area. It is planned to produce rate of 55,000 oil barrels per day. In this study, an attempt was made to identify and assess the likely key impacts of desalination and operating units in two phases: Construction and Operation. In the evaluation process, positive and negative environmental impacts of Masjid-I-Sulaiman desalination and operating units were assessed based on the results of multi-disciplinary team approach and the field survey data using RIAM method. In this regard, given that in today’s world for a closer look at the environmental impact of development projects and achieve a safer reply, using new implementation methods such as MCDM can be appropriate. The results of assessment reveal that the percent volumetric positive effects in alternative 1is more than percent volumetric negative impact on the second alternative, therefore the implementation of the project with some mitigation plans and monitoring program for the alternative 1 was chosen as a best option is accepted. Then on the basis of current evaluation suggest monitoring program and mitigation plans.