At its meeting on Thursday, March 21, 2024, the Environmental Authority (Ae) issued its opinions on several projects subject to environmental assessment. Among these, Operation of National Interest (OIN) No. 2—Tigre-Maringouins, first operational phase: ZAC 1 in Cayenne (973)—was subject to a thorough review. This project, part of the broader OIN encompassing 24 sites around French Guiana’s major urban centers, has prompted significant recommendations from the Ae. In this article, we will review the Authority’s main observations and the implications for this major development project in Cayenne.
Ae's Opinion on the Tigre-Maringouins ISO Project:
The project presented concerns an application for an environmental permit and a declaration of public utility for a coordinated development zone in the municipality of Cayenne, French Guiana, as part of the Tigre-Maringouins OIN. This development zone, designated ZAC 1, aims to build an eco-neighborhood comprising 1,234 housing units as well as various facilities and services, such as a school, a theater, a library, and a community center.
Ae Recommendations:
The environmental impact study submitted for this project was praised for its sound methodology and in-depth analyses. However, the Authority issued several recommendations aimed at improving consideration of the environment and strengthening environmental protection measures.
First, the Ae recommends updating the file by including the most recent plans and programs, as well as information on the future of the Maringouins landfill and the Cabassou quarry. Furthermore, it emphasizes the need to clarify the reasons why the backfilling and development of a wetland and flood-prone area could not be avoided, particularly with regard to the consequences for flooding and the connection to the ongoing revision of the Flood Risk Prevention Plan (PPRI) currently underway.
Furthermore, the Authority recommends ensuring the integrity of sensitive natural environments throughout the project by providing a more thorough justification for the prioritization of impacts on these environments and by increasing the proportion of «compensation» measures. It also suggests making the delivery of housing units contingent on the closure of the landfill, as well as on the reduction of traffic noise and vibrations, in order to ensure peace and quiet for future residents and users of sensitive facilities.
In conclusion, the Environmental Authority’s opinion highlights the crucial importance of rigorously taking the environment into account in urban development projects. While the OIN Tigre-Maringouins project in Cayenne has positive aspects, additional measures are needed to minimize its ecological impact and ensure the protection of sensitive natural habitats. It is now up to the relevant authorities and project developers to take these recommendations into account to ensure sustainable and environmentally responsible development in French Guiana.