Based on scientific criteria and best practices with regard to the conservation of biodiversity, the mapping allows for a wide enough area surrounding the sites to include the primary, secondary and cumulative impacts potentially associated with the company’s operations. 17% of the operational sites have been identified as priority sites owing to their proximity to areas rich in biodiversity. The goal is to increase the number of these sites owning an ad hoc biodiversity action plan. To map sites in areas prone to water shortages, eni continues to use the Global Water Tool for Oil&Gas developed by the World Business Council for Sustainable Development and the IPIECA, contributing to the identification of sites requiring more detailed analysis and the development of a water management plan. Similarly, eni promotes the effective management of water resources, particularly in areas prone to water shortages, as well as the maintenance and improvement of aquatic ecosystems, by minimizing the impact of its operations in qualitative and quantitative terms and by setting reduction targets for high consumption sites. In particular, eni expects to reach its target of reducing consumption of fresh water by 3% in areas prone to water shortages at three sites: Bir Rebaa Nord and Menzel Lejmet Est in Algeria and Abu Rudeis in Egypt.

Currently fewer than 20% of the hydrocarbon production plants are situated in areas particularly prone to water shortages. The mitigation actions taken for the sustainable management of water include protecting ecosystems, cooperation with other public and private entities, risk management in relation to potential floods or drought, minimal use of drinking water based also on the needs of local communities and the effective management of wastewater. Furthermore, materials, processes and suppliers or commodity classes with a high water consumption level have been identified and replaced.