Communities and Suppliers

We recognise that understanding these effects is important if we are to sustain our activities and operate effectively, so one of our main priorities is maintaining positive relations with the local communities in which we operate.

Our business activities contribute to community and social development through providing energy, infrastructure, employment and trade with local enterprises. We also aim to add value to these benefits through focused social investment. Our community development strategies in all areas are developed and implemented through consultation and partnership with local authorities, NGOs and other organisations.

Our consultation programmes are guided by Group and site-specific PCDPs, which require transparent mechanisms for recording grievances and giving feedback.

To assess the potential social impacts associated with an operation, respect the human rights of our employees, contractors, suppliers and those who live in the communities in which we operate, and develop mutually beneficial relationships with our stakeholders, we utilise tools such as SIAs and social baseline studies.

Our 2009 Highlights:

• The successful completion of the acquisition of permanent and 'right of use' land in Rajasthan for our pipeline, and the handling of local communities impacted by its construction.
• The rural dairy development project, mobile health van, and child and maternal health awareness initiatives provided through the Enterprise Centre in Barmer, funded in partnership with the IFC and the Government of Rajasthan.
• Survey activities in Greenland that will provide vital input to the planning of the 2010 drilling programme and the associated Social Impact Assessments.