Yemen crisis - health and protection - Islamic Relief Canada 2024
April 1st, 2026 – Global Affairs Canada issued its Notice of Determination and determined that the project is not likely to cause significant adverse environmental effects.
This determination was based on a consideration of the following factors:
- community knowledge;
- technically and economically feasible mitigation measures.
Mitigation measures taken into account for this determination are:
- Soils and land stability are protected from erosion by restricting site clearing to strictly required areas, avoiding the stockpiling of materials on slopes or near drainage channels, and applying temporary erosion control measures such as protection nets, stakes, soil rehabilitation, and revegetation of disturbed areas.
- Soil quality and contamination prevention are ensured through the storage of construction materials on lined and covered surfaces, controlled disposal of waste in accordance with local authority requirements, and reuse of excavated soils to restore degraded areas.
- Surface and groundwater resources are protected from pollution by prohibiting cement mixing near natural drainage systems, safely storing fuels, paints, and oils away from water bodies, using spill kits, and constructing properly lined pit latrines located more than 30 metres from water sources.
- Natural water flows and local environmental health are safeguarded by keeping drains and waterways free of silt and debris in order to prevent stagnant water, localized flooding, and vector‑borne disease risks.
- Air quality and the health of workers and facility users are protected through regular maintenance of machinery, the use of low‑emission and low‑noise equipment, enclosure of dust‑generating work areas, and mandatory use of personal protective equipment (respiratory masks and hearing protection).
- The safety of patients, healthcare staff, and the public is ensured by fencing and clearly marking construction areas, installing warning signage, providing clearly signposted alternative access routes, and enforcing strict site safety procedures.
- Human health, soils, and water resources are protected through robust biomedical waste management, including waste segregation at source, use of incinerators compliant with WHO, ICRC and Ministry of Health standards, staff training, and safe disposal of residues in controlled pits.
- Air quality and climate protection are strengthened by the gradual transition from diesel generators to solar energy systems, combined with strict fuel handling procedures and regular equipment maintenance to reduce emissions, spill risks, and overall carbon footprint.
Global Affairs Canada is satisfied that that the carrying out of the project is not likely to cause significant adverse environmental effects.
Therefore, Islamic Relief may carry out the project, exercise any power, perform any duty or function, or provide financial assistance to enable the project to be carried out in whole or in part.
Document reference number: 2