Methodological approach to EIA due to gas pipeline failure after an earthquake. The case study of the Trans Adriatic Pipeline

In order to assess the environmental impact due to the failure of the gas pipeline after a large earthquake, a methodological approach based on the exposed elements at risk is developed. The peculiarity of the situation, that one of the components, the pipeline, is at risk of earthquake and subsequent geological phenomena, and the risk factor of another element - the environment, determines the specificity of the approach. Proposed design of downside scenarios of faults activation intersecting with the pipeline, with the greatest possible earthquakes according to the potential of the fault, which includes assessment of potential ground deformations, corresponds to subsequent failures of pipeline and induced environmental impacts. Applying the methodology missing so far from the international literature - high environmental impact areas on fire and possible contamination of the air along the pipeline route were delineated. It is estimated that the activation, with design earthquakes of level 2 SSE (Safe Shutdown Earthquake) of the three major active faults that intersect the TAP pipeline can lead to severe environmental impacts, nearly 50% of the pipeline length, from fires and air pollution, in terms of flora, fauna, land use, cultural heritage and settlements. (C) 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.