Environmental quantitative assessment of two alternative routes for a gas pipeline in Campeche, Mexico

We describe the evaluation of two alternative routes (ARs) for a gas pipeline in the State of Campeche, Mexico. For the ecological assessment of the ARs, we modified the method of Yapp to determine the extent of damage along the proposed paths. For risk assessment, we developed an original index considering the possibilities of pipeline damage by local people, the amount of agricultural activities, inflexion points, and topography along the route. Cost of construction was also considered. Our analysis indicates that ecological impact and risk probability and cost are lower if the pipeline is constructed along the recommended route. The results of our analysis were submitted to the Mexican Environmental Ministry and the pipeline project was approved in 1997.