Guidelines for Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) for Kuwait Oil Company (KOC) Projects, Kuwait

Author : Fatema Owayed

Abstract : This guideline outlines the process for conducting Environmental and Social Impact Assessments (ESIA) for projects undertaken by Kuwait Oil Company (KOC). The ESIA process includes screening, scoping, assessing, documenting, and communicating the potential environmental and social impacts of projects, as well as proposing mitigation measures. The primary objectives of this process are to ensure compliance with regulatory requirements set by Kuwait's Environmental Public Authority (KEPA), the Ministry of Oil, and KOC’s Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE) procedures. The procedure aims to protect the natural environment while facilitating responsible project development and resource use. It also ensures that potential environmental and social impacts are identified early in the design phase to minimize costs and disruptions. Key elements of this procedure include categorizing projects based on their impact potential, providing clear communication responsibilities, and involving external stakeholders in the evaluation process when necessary. Additionally, it specifies the types of Environmental and Social Assessments required for different projects, including the contents of the Environmental and Social Impact Assessment Study (ESIAS), Environmental and Social Assessment Report (ESAR), and the Environmental Assessment Form (EAF).

Keywords : Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA), Environmental Screening, Regulatory Compliance Kuwait Environmental Public Authority (KEPA), Environmental Permit, Health, Safety and Environment Measurement System (HSEMS) and Stakeholder Involvement

Conference Name : International Conference on Environmental Policy, Governance and Biodiversity Protection (ICEPGBP - 26)

Conference Place : Vienna, Austria

Conference Date : 17th Feb 2026