Protecting Biodiversity
Ambatovy is conducting targeted conservation management activities (biodiversity offsets), whose
outcome is expected to result in no net loss to biodiversity and preferably a net gain.
The following key objectives are the foundation of Ambatovy’s biodiversity management program:
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No net loss of biodiversity, and preferably a net gain.
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No loss of species and no reduction in the viability of populations of endangered species.
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Minimized impacts on flora, fauna, and aquatic resources.
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Increased conservation of rare habitats.
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Priority habitat viability assured by maintaining or increasing ecosystem connectivity.
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Ambatovy’s biodiversity actions linked with regional initiatives.
To meet and surpass its requirements and commitments, Ambatovy is partnering with major
conservation institutions and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) as well as local communities
to implement all activities, thus contributing to environmental awareness, enhanced conservation
efforts as well as scientific knowledge.
A Pioneering Biodiversity Offsets Program
Ambatovy’s biodiversity offsets program is being designed and implemented as a pilot project
within the framework of the Business and Biodiversity Offsets Program, a voluntary partnership
between companies and conservation experts that seeks to develop an international framework
for the design and implementation of biodiversity offsets, particularly for use in developing
countries lacking their own offsets policies and legislation. Other BBOP pilot projects are
underway in Africa, Latin America, the Middle East, the U.S., and Asia covering a range of sectors
including oil and gas, mining, tourism, and real estate.
Ambatovy’s offsets activities are designed to adhere to the BBOP principles and guidelines and
produce quantifiable biodiversity and socioeconomic benefits. Sophisticated calculations are used
to determine residual losses in biodiversity due to Ambatovy’s activities and the gains achieved
by the offsets. Socioeconomic assessments are also made to determine the impact of offsetting
on local populations and the scale of compensatory measures that may be required. Ambatovy’s
offsets program is monitored in consultation with BBOP through the annual assurance framework
meetings and with the support and guidance of experts associated with the program.
Scientific Consultative Committee
A Scientific Consultative Committee on biodiversity was established in 2009 and reflects
Ambatovy’s commitment to environmental management and transparency. The Committee is
made up of fourteen national and international, independent scientists renowned for their expertise
in biodiversity, conservation, and environmental management.
The Scientific Consultative Committee convenes every six to twelve months to facilitate an
external evaluation of Ambatovy’s implementation of the biodiversity management program and to
make recommendations for the conservation of Madagascar’s unique biodiversity.
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AMBATOVY – SUPPORTING GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT
