Environmental and Social Impact Assessment of Soya Bean processing factory, Kabul, Afghanistan

| ESIA of Soya Bean Processing Factory |
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ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL IMPACT
ASSESSMENT OF SOYA BEAN PROCESSING FACTORY
SO HEALTHY FOOD PRODUCTION
LTD COMPANY

Prepared by: MgtWell Consulting Services
Yaftali Watt, Ansari Square, Shahr-E-Naw,
Email: mgtwell@aim.com

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THE PROJECT PROPONENT / APPLICANT
For the production of Soya milk, So Healthy Food Production LTD Company was established by
Dr. Abdullah Faizi, and Mr. Nazib Ullah. Dr. Abdullah Faizi, President holds the license to operate
the company, vide License No. D-08-67 dated 25/09/2016 (1395/07/04) with valid date
21/05/2016 to 20/05/2017 issued by Afghanistan Investment Support Agency. The company is
address and contact details are: So Healthy Food Production LTD Company; Pol-e-Charkhi
Industrial Park, Block A, Street 5, Unit Last (North), on the Jalalabad Road, Kabul, Afghanistan
(Latitude: 34.558028 Longitude: 69.243972). Contact details: Dr. Abdullah Faizi, Email:
ceo@faizimcc.com and Office Telephone Number: (+93)-793-557700).
The Soya Bean Processing Factory has a tie up with Nutrition and Education International (NEI), a
non-profit organization known internationally for popularizing soya bean cultivation and
processing. The NEI is registered with Ministry of Economy in Afghanistan (Registration Number
275) having its registered office at Wakil Samad Alley, Karta-e-char, District # 3, Kabul,
Afghanistan. The contact person is Mr. Hamid Ahmadi, Soy Market Development Manager,
Nutrition & Education International, Office Telephone Number: +93 (0) 20 250 43 37, +93 (0) 70
555 1000 e-mail: hamid.ahmadi@neifoundation.org, website: www.neifoundation.org

Environmental and Social Impact Assessment Report Preparation:
MgtWell Consulting Services, Kabul has conducted the Environmental and Social Impact
Assessment for the proposed So Healthy Food Production LTD Company. A team of MgtWell
experts have visited the proposed site area, interacted with the project proponents; management
staff; engineers and consultants relevant to the Soy bean factory. Also interacted with the Soy
bean farmers. As per the guidelines of NEPA prepared the ESIA report. The expert team members
are: 1. Dr. N. Sai Bhaskar Reddy, is an EIA expert and Team Leader for this study. He has done
Ph.D. on Environmental Impact Assessment (See Annexure - 4) and has more than two decades'
experience on Environment, Agriculture and Development aspects. 2. Mr. M. Bharath Bhushan is
a social and environmental specialist with 25 year's experience. 3. Mr. Hedayatullah Omarkhel is
an agriculture specialist with 20 years experience 4. Mr. Mohammad Fawad is Business
Development expert and 5. Nadia Rahimi is an environmentalist.

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ABBREVIATIONS AND ACRONYMS 
ANDS  Afghanistan National Development Strategy
CSO Central Statistics Organisation
DAIL Directorate of Agriculture, Irrigation and Livestock
EA Environmental Assessment
EHD Environmental Health Directorate
EIA Environmental Impact Assessment 
EIS Environmental Impact Statement
ESIA Environmental and Social Impact Assessment
EL Environment Law
EMP Environmental Management Plan  
EMMP Environmental Management and Monitoring Plan
EMU Environmental Management Unit
GRDP Gross Regional Domestic Product
HACCP Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point
IEE Initial Environmental Examination
KMA Kabul Metropolitan Area 
KMAMP Kabul Metropolitan Area Master Plan
KMAUD Kabul Metropolitan Area Urban Development
MAIL Ministry of Agriculture, Irrigation and Livestock

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MDGs Millennium Development Goals
MoPH Ministry of Public Health
MoUDA Ministry of Urban Development and Affairs
NEI Nutrition and Education International
NAPA National Adaptation Programme of Action for Climate Change
NCSA National Capacity Needs Self-Assessment for Global Environmental Management
NEPA National Environmental Protection Agency
NRVA National Risk and Vulnerability Assessment
PEM Protein energy malnutrition
PMO Project Management Office
SFA Soybean Farmers Association
SMPB Soy Market Promotion Board
SPMA Soy Products Manufacturing Association
SSM Sterilized Soy Milk
SSPPO Soybean Seed Production Partnership Organization
UNEP United Nations Environment Programme

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Table of Contents
1 INTRODUCTION ................................................................................................................ 10
1.1 General ................................................................................................................................. 10
1.2 Project Activity ..................................................................................................................... 12
1.3 Project Location .................................................................................................................... 12
1.4 Objectives and methodology ................................................................................................. 14
1.5 Study Area ............................................................................................................................ 16
2 INSTITUTIONAL FRAMEWORK ........................................................................................... 19
2.1 Environmental laws in Afghanistan ....................................................................................... 21
2.2 EIA Procedures ...................................................................................................................... 23
2.2.1 Environmental Law .................................................................................................................. 23
2.2.2 Regulations and Guidelines for EIA .......................................................................................... 24
2.3 Roles of Relevant Organisations ............................................................................................ 27
3 PROJECT DESCRIPTION ...................................................................................................... 28
3.1 Introduction .......................................................................................................................... 28
3.1.1 Outline plans or drawings ........................................................................................................ 30
3.1.2 Cost of the proposed project ................................................................................................... 31
3.1.3 Equipment ............................................................................................................................... 31
3.1.4 Raw material ............................................................................................................................ 32
3.1.5 Duration ................................................................................................................................... 32
3.1.6 Project Decommissioning ........................................................................................................ 32
3.2 Rules and regulations and approvals for the project .............................................................. 33
3.3 Procurement of raw material, assistance to Farmers and Livelihoods .................................... 34
3.3.1 Source of raw material procured ............................................................................................. 34
3.3.2 Value chain strategies for farmer's welfare ............................................................................. 36
3.3.3 NEI support to farmers ............................................................................................................ 37
3.3.4 Preprocessing of the soybean by the farmers ......................................................................... 38
3.3.5 Soya bean farming – economics .............................................................................................. 39
3.3.6 Sustainability of soya bean cultivation and marketing mechanisms ....................................... 39
3.3.7 Anticipated growth of the soybean production in Afghanistan .............................................. 41

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3.4 Measures with regard to Natural Disasters ........................................................................... 42
3.5 Soya Bean Processing Factory and products .......................................................................... 42
3.6 The Manufacturing Process ................................................................................................... 42
3.6.1 Procuring the raw materials .................................................................................................... 43
3.6.2 De-hulling ................................................................................................................................ 44
3.6.3 Invalidating the indigestible enzyme ....................................................................................... 44
3.6.4 Grinding ................................................................................................................................... 44
3.6.5 Extracting ................................................................................................................................. 44
3.6.6 Blending ................................................................................................................................... 45
3.6.7 Aseptic sterilization ................................................................................................................. 45
3.6.8 Homogenizing .......................................................................................................................... 45
3.6.9 Cooling ..................................................................................................................................... 46
3.6.10 Storing ................................................................................................................................. 46
3.6.11 Packaging ............................................................................................................................. 46
3.6.12 Quality Control .................................................................................................................... 47
3.7 Statutory Equipment ............................................................................................................. 47
3.8 Byproducts/ Waste ............................................................................................................... 47
3.9 Soy Milk Products ................................................................................................................. 47
3.10 Project Scale ......................................................................................................................... 48
3.11 Proposed staff ....................................................................................................................... 49
3.12 Supply and Installation of Equipment for the factory ............................................................ 49
4 THE PROJECT AREA ........................................................................................................... 50
4.1 Physical environment ............................................................................................................ 50
4.1.1 Project area ............................................................................................................................. 50
4.1.2 Geology .................................................................................................................................... 50
4.1.3 Water resources ...................................................................................................................... 52
4.1.4 Flora and fauna ........................................................................................................................ 52
4.1.5 Climate ..................................................................................................................................... 53
4.2 Social environment ............................................................................................................... 54
4.2.1 Population ............................................................................................................................... 54
4.2.2 Infrastructure ........................................................................................................................... 59

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4.2.3 Economic situation .................................................................................................................. 60
4.2.4 Health and hygienic situation .................................................................................................. 61
4.2.5 Education ................................................................................................................................. 63
4.2.6 Public Consultation .................................................................................................................. 64
5 IMPACT ASSESSMENT AND RECOMMENDATION OF MITIGATION MEASURES ................... 68
5.1 Potential impacts during construction ................................................................................... 68
5.1.1 Changes of landscape and visual impact ................................................................................. 68
5.1.2 Contamination of water and soil ............................................................................................. 68
5.1.3 Soil erosion and compaction ................................................................................................... 68
5.1.4 Noise and vibration emissions ................................................................................................. 69
5.1.5 Dust and gaseous emissions .................................................................................................... 70
5.1.6 Impacts on fauna and flora ...................................................................................................... 71
5.1.7 Waste generation .................................................................................................................... 71
5.1.8 Traffic disturbance ................................................................................................................... 71
5.1.9 Employment and impact on local economy ............................................................................ 72
5.1.10 Alteration of cultural, historical or archaeological sites ...................................................... 72
5.1.11 Resettlement ....................................................................................................................... 72
5.1.12 Occupational health and safety ........................................................................................... 72
5.1.13 Standards of the product .................................................................................................... 73
5.1.14 Gender ................................................................................................................................. 75
5.2 Food safety regulations ......................................................................................................... 75
5.2.1 Food regulatory functions of the agencies or departments .................................................... 76
5.3 Potential impacts during operation ....................................................................................... 77
5.3.1 Beneficial impacts .................................................................................................................... 77
5.3.2 Cleaning in place (CIP) ............................................................................................................. 78
5.3.3 Wastewater Management ....................................................................................................... 79
5.3.4 Impact on Groundwater resources of Project Site .................................................................. 84
5.3.5 Water Quality .......................................................................................................................... 88
5.4 Financial Aspects ................................................................................................................... 93
6 INSTITUTIONAL REQUIREMENT FOR ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT ............................ 94

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6.1 Institutional Framework ........................................................................................................ 94
6.2 Environmental Management and Monitoring Plan ................................................................ 95
6.2.1 Environmental Management ................................................................................................... 95
6.2.2 Environmental Monitoring Program ........................................................................................ 95
6.2.3 Environmental and Social Management Training .................................................................... 95
6.3 Other information ................................................................................................................. 96
6.3.1 Identification of other permits required for the project ......................................................... 96
6.3.2 Relationship of the project to other existing or planned activities ......................................... 96
6.3.3 Other activities which may be required or may occur as a consequence of the project ........ 96
6.3.4 Planned future developments on or around the site .............................................................. 96
7 REFERENCES ...................................................................................................................... 99
8 ANNEXES ........................................................................................................................ 100
Annexure 1 AISA License of So Healthy Food Production LTD Company ........................................... 100
Annexure 2 Ownership of land Deed or Qabala. .............................................................................. 101
Annexure 3 Electricity permission for the Soy Milk Factory. ............................................................ 103
Annexure 4 EIA Doctor of Philosophy certificate of Team Leader ..................................................... 104

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1 INTRODUCTION
1.1 GENERAL
Soya milk factory is an initiative of So Healthy Food Production LTD Company in partnership and
collaboration with Nutrition and Education International (NEI). It aims to address the urgent
challenge of rampant malnutrition among children and women through production and
facilitation of Soya Milk. It also addresses the sustainable livelihoods of some of the soya bean
producing farmers in conflict ravaged Afghanistan.
Afghanistan has experienced more than three decades of conflict. Chronic insecurity, internal
displacement and widespread poverty have subjected its population to ongoing hardship. Natural
disasters also affect tens of thousands of people every year, including earthquakes, frequent
floods and drought. Afghan children suffer from one of the highest levels of chronic malnutrition
in the world and over a third are underweight. There is rampant malnutrition among Afghan
women too.
In this context there is a need to address the malnutrition, especially among women and children.
soybean milk products are one of the promising supplements considering its nutritional value and
the cost of delivery. It is an excellent food for babies, children, elderly people and pregnant and
lactating women. It contains vegetable protein which is very nutritious and easy to digest. Soya
milk and its derivatives are the cheapest source of protein, its derivatives also make tasty dishes,
snacks and also used in desserts.

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Soya beans contain all the essential amino acids making it a valuable protein source in human
nutrition. Soya beans have approximately 40% protein, 35% carbohydrates and 20% oil calculated
on the dry matter. Further, it is rich in vitamins and minerals.
Soya milk is a water extract from whole soybeans. It is an emulsion containing water soluble
proteins, carbohydrate and oil droplets. Soya Milk is an inexpensive and remarkably versatile high
protein food made from soybeans. Unlike most other protein foods, milk is entirely free from
cholesterol and low in fat (especially saturated fats).
Global soybean Production

The soybean (Glycine max) is the world's foremost provider of protein and oil. The Chinese have
been cultivating soybeans for thousands of years and many believe that they also have been
making soy milk for centuries. The first written record of Chinese cultivation dates to the third
century B.C. Many believe that the Chinese have been making soy milk for centuries—it has
been sold in cafes and from street vendors for generations. So important to the Chinese are
soybeans for the production of soy milk and tofu that soybeans are considered one of the five
sacred grains along with rice, wheat, barley, and millet. Soybeans made their way to Japan by
the sixth century and to Europe by the seventeenth century.
The beans came to the United States on ships from Asia and were used as ballast and often
discarded once the ships docked. But soldiers during the Civil War substituted soybeans for
coffee beans and were thus making their own form of soy beverage. By the nineteenth century,
soy beverages were available in Europe as well.
However, the popularity of soybean products, including soy milk, came slowly to the United
States. African-American agriculturist George Washington Carver began studying the soybean
and touting its nutritive value in the early twentieth century. Shortly thereafter, doctors
became intrigued with their use for its nutritional value, particularly for children unable to drink
cow's milk. Soybean production has increased in the United States throughout the twentieth
century and is a staple crop for many Midwestern farmers, allowing soy milk producers a steady
supply of the main ingredient. Soybeans are grown in 29 states and is second largest cash crop.
The second largest producer of soybeans in the world is Brazil and stood for over 25% of the
world’s total production in 2007.
Much of the technology now used in the production of soy milk was developed by the Japanese
who use soy beverages (and other soy products) in tremendous quantities. In the 1970s, when
interest in soy and other non-dairy products soared, manufacturers began adding flavors to the
bland soy milk. Shortly thereafter, the development of aseptic packaging (in which the milk is
packaged in such a way that no air is introduced which can contain harmful bacteria) brought
the beverage into the modern era.

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1.2 PROJECT ACTIVITY
Considering the value of soya bean as a food supplement in addressing the malnutrition of
especially children and women and also to support the farmers cultivating soya bean, Nutrition
and Education International (NEI) is now supporting So Healthy Food Production LTD Company
(SHFPL Company) in the establishment of a sterilized soya milk factory in Pul-e-Charkhi Industrial
Park on the Jalalabad Road in Kabul.
NEI is an international NGO based in Pasadena, CA, USA focused on providing nutrition to the
malnourished people through collaboration with many Afghan ministries and international food
security organizations. The NEI, a pioneer in soya bean industry and nutrition promotion mission,
has already established six soy flour factories and one soy oil factory with local Afghan business
partners in seven provinces.
NEI has been developing a sustainable soya industry in Afghanistan since 2003. The focus is to
create a self-sustainable soya value chain, including seed production, soybean cultivation, soy
processing, and market development. This factory creates the demand and supports all the above
initiatives taken up by the NEI for promoting soybean in Afghanistan.
The proposed sterilized soy milk factory plans to produce soy milk around 40,000 pouches (@ 190
ml each) per day. Or 7600 liters' production capacity for an eight hours shift in a day. The soy milk
would address the gaps in combating the problem of malnutrition among women and children in
Afghanistan.
1.3 PROJECT LOCATION
So Healthy Food Production LTD Company (SHFPL Company) is being established at Pul-e-Charkhi
Industrial Park on the Jalalabad Road in Kabul (Latitude: 34.558028 Longitude: 69.243972).

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Fig. 1 The location of the SHFPL Company, Kabul city.

Fig. 2 The location of the SHFPL Company, Kabul city. (Perspective view)

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Fig 3 Site of proposed sterilized soya milk
factory and surrounding area
Fig. 4 Site (area marked) of sterilized soya milk
factory
The Soya Bean processing factory site is surrounded by agricultural fields in the North, airport in
the west, industrial area in south. The pictures above provide details of site location and land use
in surrounding area.
1.4 OBJECTIVES AND METHODOLOGY
This is an Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) report which has been conducted
to document the potential effects of the Project and recommend measures to manage (maximize
positive and minimize negative) and monitor those effects.
NEPA requires Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) for approval of the project. In the
environmental assessment study, it is imperative to study the existing environmental conditions
not only to establish the present physical, biological and socio-economic scenario but also to
predict future impacts owing to construction, operation and maintenance of the project. As such,
particular emphasis has been laid in collection of data for land resources, air quality, noise,

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hydrology, flora and fauna in the present study.
However, considering the requirements of World Bank and other international agencies, this
report also includes social impact assessment, therefore it is an Environmental and Social Impact
Assessment (ESIA) Report. It may be considered primarily as EIA for meeting all requirements of
the government of Afghanistan and NEPA regulations, which is comprehensive with inclusion of
social impact assessment issues such as livelihoods, gender, health, etc.
The main purpose of this Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) is to improve
project planning by ensuring environmental considerations, which are taken into account in all
aspects of the project implementation from preparation to decommissioning phase.
The process of conducting the ESIA study is to ensure:
a) Inclusion of all environmental and social considerations affecting the project from the
planning stage.
b) Identification of all potential negative effects of the project and prescribing mitigation
measures.
c) Enhancement of positive project impacts to the benefits of all stakeholders and the
environment.
d) Provision of a guide for carrying out mitigation and monitoring measures.
e) Engage all interested and affected parties in decision-making concerning the project.
Methodology adopted for the ESIA comprised a blend of collecting and analyzing information
from secondary and primary sources pertaining to all important parameters of ESIA.
A multi disciplinary team has been engaged in the preparation of ESIA of the proposed project.
Specifically, the following aspects include the methodology of the ESIA:
a) Collection and analysis of Secondary data -Quantitative and Qualitative Data on Existing
State of the Environment;
b) Study of the technical details of the project and process of the proposed sterilized soya
milk factory;

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c) Study of the existing site environment covering all relevant environmental issues including
Atmospheric and terrestrial environment; geology; ground water conditions, flora and
fauna; Land use, existing physical resources in the project area;
d) Primary and secondary details from project site area, stakeholders and literature on
aspects related to Pollution, Noise, Effluent discharge, Solid waste, Health & safety,
Resource use;
e) Social and economic impact on the livelihoods of the farmers;
f) Regulatory framework and policies/ government policies, laws and regulations;
g) Environmental Impact assessment analysis and measures as well as Environmental
Management Plan (EMP) for construction, operation and decommissioning of the project;
h) Consultation with the stakeholders through meetings and interviews with knowledgeable
stakeholders for information disclosure.
1.5 STUDY AREA
The proposed sterilized soya milk factory is in Pul-e-Charkhi Industrial Park on the Jalalabad Road
in Kabul. The project site is part of Kabul, capital city of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan.
Kabul city has been experiencing rapid population growth with an annual rate of 4.0% and over
since 1990, due to the inflow of people from rural areas and refugees from neighboring
countries.

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Fig 5. Kabul city and Kabul Metropolitan Area
The Government of Afghanistan has planned to construct a new city at the Dehsabz area north of
Kabul. And requested the Government of Japan to prepare a master plan for the development of
Kabul Metropolitan Area in 2006. A part of the master plan referring to the new city was
subsequently approved by the Government of Afghanistan in March 2009.
Population of Kabul Metropolitan Area (KMA) is projected to be 6.74 million by 2025 with 1.5

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million in the new city (consisting of Dehsabz and Barikab, including most parts of Districts 18 and
19 of Kabul City).
Table 1: Population Projections by Kabul Metropolitan Area Master Plan (KMAMP)
Classification Barikab Dehsabz N Dehsabz S Paymonar Total
Development Area 140,000 320,000 382,00 271,000 1,111,300
Ongoing Public Projects 45,000 150,000 51,721 0 246,721
Villages 9,841 31,376 27,112 71,671 140,000
Total Population 194,841 501,376 460,833 342,671 1,498,021
Source: Kabul Metropolitan Area Master Plan

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2 INSTITUTIONAL FRAMEWORK
National Environmental Protection Agency (NEPA) as an independent institution is responsible for
coordinating and monitoring conservation and rehabilitation of the environment, and for
implementing the government’s policy on environment under the Environment Law (2006). The
Law clarifies administrative roles at the national level and specifies the coordination required with
provincial authorities. It spells out framework for managing natural resource conservation and
biodiversity, drinking water, pollution control, and environmental education. Equally important,
the Law provides tools for enforcement.
Afghanistan's first Environmental Law was drafted and signed by President Hamid Karzai in 2005.
It was promulgated in early 2007 with amendments by the National Assembly. The law defines
the agency's function as well as its powers. NEPA serves as Afghanistan's environmental policy-
making and regulatory institution. Its role is to regulate, coordinate, monitor and enforce
environmental laws. The agency is expected to play a major role in environmental protection, as
well as to be the central point in dealing with the management of Afghanistan's environment so
that it benefits all the citizens of Afghanistan.
The regulations on environmental impact assessment are based on the Environmental Act of
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan (Gazette No.873), dated 29 Jadi, 1384 (19 January, 2006). The
National Environmental Protection Agency (NEPA), as an independent institutional entity, is
responsible for coordinating and monitoring conservation and rehabilitation of the environment,

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and for implementing this Act. Article 16 and 17 of Chapter 3 of Environmental Act describes the
process of preparing a preliminary assessment, an environmental impact statement and a
comprehensive mitigation plan to be conducted by the proponent of each project. Article 21
mentions public consultation is required for all the projects.
Article 18 describes the approval procedure of environmental impact assessment. The NEPA shall
appoint an EIA Board of Experts to review, assess and consider applications and documents
submitted by the proponent. Acting on the advice of the EIA Board of Experts, NEPA shall either
grant or refuse to a grant permit in respect of the project. A permit granted will lapse in the event
that the proponent fails to implement the project within three years of the date of which the
permit was granted. Article 19 describes the appeal procedure. Any person may within thirty days
of the granting or refusal of a permit, appeal the decision to the Director-General of the NEPA.
The Director-General shall review the appeal application and thereafter make an appropriate
decision. Should the appellant wish to appeal the Director-General’s final decision, the matter
shall be referred to the relevant court.
The potential to pollute has been classified based on two main categories; the Category I (Red) or
Category II (Orange) list (see Annex 2 – Industry/ Facility Classification, NEPA - An Integrated
Approach to Environmental Impact Assessment in Afghanistan (2007).
A project is classified as Category 2 if its potential adverse environmental impacts on human
populations or environmentally sensitive areas (e.g. wetlands, forests, grasslands and other
natural habitats) are less adverse than those of Category 1 projects. These impacts are site
specific, and few are irreversible (Annexure 2 of NEPA 2007).
The proposed sterilized soya milk factory falls under category 2 viz., “Food products industry” and
it is also part of Orange category according EIA Policy which includes “Food processing (vegetable
oils, beverages, maize/corn starch, rice bran oil, dhal mills, integrated milk plants, steeping and
processing of grain, rice hullers/shellers, wheat threshing, etc.)”

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2.1 ENVIRONMENTAL LAWS IN AFGHANISTAN
In Afghanistan, there have been several important achievements in the field of environmental
governance during the past five years. National Environmental Protection Agency (NEPA) was
established as Afghanistan’s environmental policy-making institution. NEPA was tasked with
environmental regulations, coordination and monitoring of environmental activities, and
enforcement of environmental laws.
Environmental Law for Afghanistan was first drafted further to a consultative process with
technical assistance from the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and it was signed
by the Afghan President in late 2005. The Environmental Law was then reviewed and amended by
the National Assembly. Besides, several projects on environmental capacity building for impact
assessment, natural resources preservation, enhancement, etc., have been implemented, as well
as some important international environmental agreements signed. Adoption of Afghanistan
National Development Strategy (ANDS) in 2008 is one of the significant achievements in the field
of environment. The ANDS, is among priority issues and sectors, lists environmental management
and conservation.
The strategic vision of ANDS is to improve the quality of life of the people of Afghanistan and
protection of the natural environment. The goals of ANDS include: secure a clean and healthy
environment;  attain sustainable economic and social development while protecting the  natural
resource base and the environment of the country; and ensure effective management of the
country’s environment through  participation of all stakeholders.  The Environmental Law
defines the functions and powers of NEPA and reflects the role of the agency as the apex body for
the formulation, implementation, regulation and monitoring of Afghanistan’s environmental
policies and also as the coordinator for international environmental cooperation.
The Environment Law has established Afghanistan’s Committee for Environmental Coordination
and the National Environmental Advisory Council for further integration and coordination of
environmental matters with other government agencies. The National Capacity Needs Self-
Assessment for Global Environmental Management (NCSA) and National Adaptation Programme

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of Action for Climate Change (NAPA) projects, completed in February 2008, provide an excellent
overview of Afghanistan’s progress towards implementing The United Nations Framework
Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), UNCBD (The United Nations Convention on Biological
Diversity), and United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD), and its overall
position in the international environmental arena. The National Environmental Strategy of
Afghanistan, developed by NEPA in 2007 as part of the ANDS process, clearly demonstrates the
cross-sectoral perspective of environmental management.
It also proposes specific activities and considerations to meet national targets for the Millennium
Development Goals (MDGs). Following formation of NEPA, the Afghan Cabinet approved
Environment Law in December, 2005, which came into force in January, 2006 through an official
gazette (Issue # 873, 19th January, 2006). The ANDS has also been approved in 2008 for security,
governance, economic growth and poverty reduction.
The administrative process for EIA is described under the Environment Act. It also narrates
prohibited activities which entail the following:
● No person may undertake an activity or implement a project, plan or policy that is likely to
have a significant adverse impact on the environment unless the provisions law have been
complied with.
● No ministry or national authority may grant an authorization for the execution of an
activity or implementation of a project, plan or policy that is likely to have a significant
adverse effect on the environment unless the provisions of this Act have been complied.
This will require the proponent to apply to NEPA for a permit to undertake the activity
under the following conditions.  
● If the NEPA, acting on the advice of the EIA Board of Experts, considers that all the
environmental impacts and concerns are adequately addressed by the environmental
impact statement, the final record of opinion or the comprehensive mitigation plan, it
shall grant a permit for the project, plan, policy or activity subject to whatever terms and
conditions the NEPA, acting on the advice of the EIA Boards of Experts, considers
appropriate to ensure that the significant adverse effects of the project, plan, policy or

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activity are effectively avoided, mitigated and remedied.
● The NEPA shall refuse to grant a permit in respect of a project, plan, policy or activity if the
National Environmental Protection Agency, acting on the advice of the EIA Board of
Experts, considers that the implementation of the project would bring about unacceptable
significant adverse effects or that the mitigation measures may be inadequate to
satisfactorily mitigate the significant adverse effects of the proposed project, plan, policy
or activity, provided that the NEPA must provide written reasons for the refusal. The NEPA
may withdraw a permit granted if the proponent fails to comply with any of the terms and
conditions to which the permit is subject. A permit will lapse in the event that the
proponent fails to undertake the activity or implement the project, plan or policy for
which the permit was granted within three years of the date of which the permit was
granted
NEPA classifies development projects in Afghanistan into two categories as following:
According to NEPA, project proponent is to submit first EIA Screening Report providing
information about: i. Applicant; ii. Project activity; iii. Project location; iv. Potential sources of
impact; v. Adverse impact mitigation possibilities; and vi. Public consultation programs.
Upon reviewing the screening report, NEPA will determine extent of environmental assessment
requirement, either in the form of IEE or EIA, for the proposed project. Finally, the project
proponent is to collect environmental clearance certificate from NEPA based on acceptance of
the IEE/EIA document.
2.2 EIA PROCEDURES
The legal framework of environmental and social considerations in Afghanistan is presented
below.
2.2.1 ENVIRONMENTAL LAW
The Environmental Law (Official Gazette No. 912, 25 January 2007) is the fundamental law on

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environmental considerations in Afghanistan. It stipulates basic policies and procedures of
activities for environmental considerations such as environmental impact assessment, pollution
control, conservation and management of water resources, protected area, biodiversity,
environmental information and education. The law also defines the National Environmental
Protection Agency (NEPA) as the agency responsible for environmental activities.
2.2.2 REGULATIONS AND GUIDELINES FOR EIA
The following documents on EIA have been issued based on the Environmental Law:
1. The Environment Law, 1385 (Official Gazette No. 912, dated 25 January 2007)  
2. Environmental Impact Assessment Regulations (Official Gazette No. 939, dated 10
March 2008)
3. Administrative Guidelines for the Preparation of Environmental Impact Assessment
(Issued by the Director General of NEPA based on Executive Order No. 1/87, dated 3
June 2008)
4. National Environmental Impact Assessment Policy (Issued by the Director General of
NEPA based on Executive Order No. 1/86, dated 25 November 2007)
Each of the documents describes the EIA procedure. Out of the three, document a) is legal
binding and stipulates specific procedures of EIA such as screening criteria and application forms.
Document b) is the procedural guideline and gives supplemental explanations such as
methodology of public disclosures. Document c) is the overall guideline on the framework of EIA
including an explanation on the purpose and requirements of EIA and a recommendation on the
institutional capacity development of NEPA.
The EIA procedure described in the above mentioned documents is shown in Fig. 6.
The legal procedure of EIA starts with the submission of application to NEPA by the project
proponent. The purpose of the application is to screen the projects which require EIA. A
screening report needs to be attached to the report, giving a brief description of the project
activities, site conditions, potential impacts and mitigations on the Initial Environmental
Examination (IEE) level. It is also required to describe the results of public consultation with
affected people, if applicable. As the screening criteria, project scales of Category 1 and Category

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2 are defined for each type of activity. Category 1 is for activities likely to have significant
adverse impacts while Category 2 is for those with less adverse impacts than Category 1.
According to NEPA, both Category 1 and Category 2 require EIA.
The proposed sterilized soya milk factory is a Food processing unit which comes under the
Orange Category. These categories are provided for the purpose of identifying the potential of
an industry to give rise to pollution. The highest potential polluters are red category industry
followed by orange category followed by green. (Ref: Environmental Impact Assessment, Annex
2 – Industry/Facility Classification).

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Fig. 6 Screening process for EIA approval

- 27 -
NEPA reviews the submitted screening report and finalizes the requirement of EIA considering
the results of the public disclosure after submission of the screening report. Public disclosure is
conducted by the proponent under the responsibility of NEPA.
In cases where NEPA decides that the activity does not require EIA, certificate for compliance is
issued without EIA to approve the activity. In cases where EIA is decided to be required, the
project proponent has to complete the EIA and submit an EIA report to NEPA. Within 45 days
after submission, NEPA reviews the report and approve the activity if it is sufficient. According to
NEPA, a board of experts would be established, comprising experts and ministries for reviewing
the EIA.
2.3 ROLES OF RELEVANT ORGANISATIONS
Roles of relevant organizations in the EIA process is presented below:
NEPA: Reviewing screening report and EIA Report, screening, responsible on public disclosure
and approval of EIA.
Project proponent: Prepares and submits screening report and EIA report, public disclosure,
conducts consultations with stakeholders, and affected people, and cooperating with monitoring
agencies and local government agencies.

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3 PROJECT DESCRIPTION
3.1 INTRODUCTION
So Healthy Food Production LTD Company (is duly organized and incorporated under the
applicable laws of Afghanistan and has its principal office at Pol-e-Charkhi Industrial Park, Block A,
Street 5, Unit Last (North), Kabul - Afghanistan, is the project proponent of sterilized soya milk
factory.
Dr. Abdullah Faizi, President, and Mr. Nazib Ullah, Vice President of So Healthy Food Production
LTD Company are owners of the Company. Dr. Abdullah Faizi holds the license to operate the
company, vide License No. D-08-67 dated 25/09/2016 (1395/07/04) with valid date 21/05/2016
to 20/05/2017 issued by Afghanistan Investment Support Agency (see Annexure).
The Soya Bean Processing Factory has tied up with Nutrition and Education International (NEI), a
non-profit organization known internationally for popularizing soya bean cultivation and
processing. The NEI is registered with Ministry of Economy in Afghanistan (Registration Number
275) having its registered office at Wakil Samad Alley, Karta-e-char, District # 3, Kabul,
Afghanistan.

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The NEI provides project development and management services, including Business plan
development, Capital equipment sourcing of sterilized soy milk processing plant, and Factory and
equipment layout drawings. NEI also provides technical support for installation of equipment and
complete commissioning of the sterilized soy milk plant. Technical expertise provided by the NEI
with regard to processing of sterilized soy milk includes technical support on equipment running
and maintenance, process enhancement and quality assurance as well as new products research
and development.
Collaboration with NEI also includes
● On-site training of So Healthy Food Production LTD company staff at the newly established
sterilized soy milk facility;
● Supports So Healthy Food Production LTD company management in establishing a link
with suppliers of raw materials for the sterilized soy milk products including but not
limited to soybean;
● NEI will act as a liaison between So Healthy Food Production LTD company, World Food
Programme (WFP), and the Ministry of Agriculture, Irrigation and Livestock (MAIL) in
Afghanistan;
● Monitor use of equipment and production process to ensure good manufacturing
practices and to ensure quality of all food products produced by So Healthy Food
Production LTD company; and
● Market assessment and Market development activities, including but not limited to:
a. Market assessment research
b. Advertisement production and placement, and product promotional activities
c. Establishment of distribution network in coordination FMC
d. Product extension including flavor development and packaging
All operation works and the cost associated with operations is the responsibility of So Healthy
Food Production LTD Company’s. NEI will monitor the major areas such as HR, Marketing and
Operations such as procurement, logistics, production, new product research and development,
and expansion. So Healthy Food Production LTD Company is responsible for any and all routine

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maintenance of the equipment. The required maintenance shall be performed under the
direction and supervision of technical experts employed with NEI. The land ownership of factory
is under the President with valid and attested Deed (Qabala). See Annexure - 2.
3.1.1 OUTLINE PLANS OR DRAWINGS
The proposed company has the following facilities, the details are given below with the area
covered by each area.
1. Building area 2482 Square Meters
2. Sidewalks 252 Square Meters
3. Green Area 435 Square Meters
4. Wastewater Treatment Plant Area 1404 Square Meters
5. Solid Waste collecting area 1040 Square Meters
6. Parking Area 200 Square Meters
7. Roads 422 Linear Meters
8. Rain Water Drainage 292 Linear Meters

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Fig 7. Soya Bean Processing Factory - outline of facilities.
3.1.2 COST OF THE PROPOSED PROJECT
Total cost of the project is over 5 million USD (3 million equipment plus 2 million land and
construction).
3.1.3 EQUIPMENT
The leased equipment shall be owned by and title shall be held in the name of the NEI team. So
Healthy Food Production LTD Company shall use the Leased Equipment during the term of this

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Agreement, at locations agreed upon by both parties and within a layout as directed by the NEI
technical team.
3.1.4 RAW MATERIAL
Products in four flavors are proposed viz., Strawberry flavor, Banana flavor, Chocolate flavor, and
Sweetened plan (no flavor). Filtered water, Soybeans, sugar and glycerin mono fatty acid ester are
required for all types of flavors. Other ingredients used in different flavor include artificial red
coloring Allura Red AC (E129), banana concentrate, banana flavor, carrageenan, cereal flavor,
chocolate flavor, cocoa powder, corn oil, high fructose corn syrup, salt, soybean oil, strawberry
concentrate, strawberry flavor, xanthan gum.
3.1.5 DURATION
The time period for sterilized soya milk factory construction and bringing into operation would be
about one-year.
3.1.6 PROJECT DECOMMISSIONING
However, the factory would continue to operate over a long period i.e., at least 25 years. Still due
to unforeseen circumstances hindering the production of the soya bean, such as lack of access to
raw materials from farmers, cost of production becoming non-viable due to change fluctuations,
natural disasters (unforeseen), the decommissioning procedure would be taken up. The materials
used in the construction of this factory are non hazardous. Material such as steel used to build
the factory and the pre-coated iron sheets would be disposed for recycling or reuse. The roof
materials based on the condition would be reused or disposed as scrap material. The running
equipment such as motors and pumps would be reused. The factory materials such as boilers
containers etc., which are made up of steel, would be disposed as scrap material. If they are still
in a usable condition, they would be sold to any other food processing industry elsewhere for
reuse. The bricks and cement material would be safely disposed in the designated municipal
dumping yard facility as per the norms of municipal authorities. Therefore, the decommission

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process is not a concern for this non-hazardous food processing plant. Some of the money
received through disposal of the materials would be used for the decommissioning of the factory.
3.2 RULES AND REGULATIONS AND APPROVALS FOR THE PROJECT
The proposed project has approvals of the local government. The site allotment is in the industrial
park. Status of the proponent with regard to approvals of authorities of varied departments for
establishment of the soya bean processing factory and permissions are presented below:
a. Initial approval has been obtained from NEPA for ESIA report.
b. Airport authority - The project, So Healthy Food Production LTD company, is located in
government approved designated industrial area by the Government of the Islamic
Republic of Afghanistan viz., Pol-e-Charkhi Industrial Park which is adjoining the airport. As
the project is a food processing unit in the Orange Category requires no special approval
since it situated in the designated Pol-e-Charkhi Industrial Park approved by the
government.
c. Local permissions: - The project, So Healthy Food Production LTD company, is located in
government approved designated industrial area viz., Pol-e-Charkhi Industrial Park. There
is no need for additional permission from municipality or local industrial area
development authority which has necessary approval/ document from Ministry of Urban
Development Affairs & Housing.
d. Electricity department - So Healthy Food Production LTD company is based on clean
energy using electricity provided by the government and has no emissions. Approval of
Electricity Department is obtained and the power supply to the unit will be under
industrial category. See Annexure -3.
e. Brand for marketing - Brand for So Healthy Food Production LTD Company is (So Healthy)
the logo is shown below.

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3.3 PROCUREMENT OF RAW MATERIAL, ASSISTANCE TO FARMERS AND LIVELIHOODS
3.3.1 SOURCE OF RAW MATERIAL PROCURED
Soybean is considered a wonder crop because one ton of soybean seeds can yield up to forty tons
of consumable soy. The harvest from one ton of soy can provide 10,000 families of about six
members in each family with enough protein for three months. It has enormous potential in
eradicating protein-energy malnutrition (PEM) among women and children, particularly in rural
areas of Afghanistan.
Farmers earn income and become aware of soy nutrition which is high in protein and essential
amino acids. The Afghan market demand for NEI’s soya flour is 300 MT used for soy naan, soy
cookies, and other products. Soy can easily be incorporated into traditional Afghan meals as
well. Soybean cultivation also meets domestic needs and nutrition of the farmers as well. Farmers
typically keep half of their harvest for home consumption. These farmers sell the remaining
harvest to NEI or to one of the seven soy processing factories built by NEI with local partners. The
factories are producing soy flour, soy cookies, soy nuts, soy milk for humanitarian aid, Tofu and
other products.
Soybean is a legume crop and it is good in terms of fixation of nitrogen in the soil and its positive
role in soil fertility. Soybean farming also enriches the soil and helps with wheat farming, the first

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crop of the year. Farmers are happy based on experiential knowledge of soybean as a good
method in crop rotation. There is no scientific research conducted to find out adverse impact on
soil fertility.
The raw soybean will be procured for the company from four Provinces viz., Kabul, Logar,
Wardak, and Laghman (see Table 2). See details of the number of farmers and villages from four
provinces below. In the cultivation of the soya beans no pesticides are used. It is also ensured that
soybeans are procured from farmers where no pesticides are used.
Table 2 Details of potential suppliers of soya bean by districts and provinces
Province District # of Villages # of Farmers
Kabul

Char asiab 8 55
Char Dehi 8 77
Paghman 14 70
Istalif 9 60
Guldara 11 36
Sorobi 13 60
Shakardara 6 63
MirbachaKot 15 50
Kalakan 20 67
Khake Jabar 17 124
Bagrami 12 60
Dehsabz 11 59
Qarabagh 14 51
Farza 11 44
Sub total 169 876
Logar

Pol-e Alam 23 75
Khushi 10 53
Mohammad Agha 18 43
Sub total 51 171
Wardak

Maidan Shahr 15 37
Narkh 11 32
Sayed Abad 19 60
Chak 12 38
Sub total 57 167
Laghman Mihtarlam 22 202

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Qarghae 17 100
Alishag 26 212
Alingar 39 340
Sub total 104 854
TOTAL 381 2068

3.3.2 VALUE CHAIN STRATEGIES FOR FARMER'S WELFARE
Soybean Farmers Association (SFA) has been formed with 80 members from 11 districts in Kabul.
SFA in Laghman province with 200 members from 4 districts towards is for ensuring better
negotiating space and collective action of the farmers. SFA in Wardak is also planned and is in the
process of formation. The SFA improves the opportunities of the farmers to negotiate with
challenges of the market.
So Healthy Food Production LTD Company procures soybean directly from the farmers and from
district centers or farmers’ associations. Besides, soybean processing factories by NEI in
Afghanistan also supply soybean, if required.
Three methods of marketing of farmer's produce are as follows:
a. Direct marketing soybean by farmers to NEI and NEI’s Processing Factories (SSM,
Soy Oil/ Texturized Soy Protein (TSP), Nutriana).
b. There are soy processing factories established by NEI in Parwan, Kapisa, Kunduz,
Takhar, Jawzjan, Herat, Nangarhar and one in Kabul for processing raw material.
c. Farmers gather their soybean in one central location in the district, or SPCs, or DAIL
Extension Offices or farmers’ association from where NEI or agents of Soybean
Processing Factories procure the material (See Fig 8 Soybean Procurement
Coordination Process).

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Fig 8 Soybean Procurement Coordination Process
3.3.3 NEI SUPPORT TO FARMERS
NEI provides good quality soybean seed as loan to the farmers, which is returned when soybean is
harvested. In preparation for the soybean growing season, NEI conducts farmer training
throughout Afghanistan. NEI’s training program in 2016 reached 17,386 farmers in 2,445 villages.
One of the goals of training is to help soy farmers become self-sufficient, and farmers receive
hands on training where they gain first-hand knowledge of soy farming processes and techniques.
Farmers also receive inputs during training. In 2016 soy farmers received 200 MT of non-GMO
seeds, as well as fertilizers to ensure high yields.
Subsidies from local institutions or NEI
a) NEI provides chemical Diammonium Phosphate (DAP) fertilizer, Urea, and rhizobium
bacteria to farmers as support to farmers.
b) NEI provides technical training for farmers on:
● Soybean Health benefits
● Soybean Nutritional benefits

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● Agro practice of soybean farms and farm management
Inputs from local institutions or NEI include the following:
● Fertilizers, Diammonium Phosphate and Urea
● Pesticides, Fungicides and Insecticides
● Machinery: Tractor, Threshers and Planters

NEI’s training programs cater to farmers as well as staff of soy processing plants and policy
makers. While farmers training programs are hand –on programs in Afghanistan, other programs
on processing matters are held in Korea. Above picture is one of such training programs.
3.3.4 PREPROCESSING OF THE SOYBEAN BY THE FARMERS
Before reaching the processing in the factory, there are three activities-
● Farmers just clean the soybean commonly. The soybean supplied by the farmers is given

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grading by agents of the NEI and processing factories based on purity of soybean.
● The soybean will be transported by trucks to factories. About 40 truckloads of the soybean
is transported to the factory per annum.
● The soybean has standard moisture, and it is further processed through a color sorter
machine. There is no pesticide residue in soybean that would be procured and used in the
factory.
3.3.5 SOYA BEAN FARMING – ECONOMICS
Soya bean cultivation is attracting attention of increasing number of farmers in Afghanistan.
Extent under cultivation and the number of farmers cultivating soybean has increased
significantly in the recent years because of the profit margins and assured market for their
produce. Soybean price is flexible and keeps fluctuating. Current marketing price of soybean is
$680 Metric Tonne (MT).
Economics of soya bean cultivation
Average price of soybean $680 MT
Average production of soybean (tonnes per hectare) 2.0 MT/ha
Net benefit on an average per tonne of soybean produced $600 per MT
3.3.6 SUSTAINABILITY OF SOYA BEAN CULTIVATION AND MARKETING MECHANISMS
Afghanistan has attained successfully sustainable supply of soybean, and promises manifold
growth in near future. NEI initiated several steps to facilitate this sustainability by assistance to
the farmers through farm inputs and also in marketing. Formation of SFAs envisages to produce
commercial products and connecting farmers with processing factories. Farmers and factories are
connected and the farmers produce with little external support. Soya bean processing factory by
So Healthy Food Production LTD Company plays vital role in reducing malnutrition through better
soy value chain and soy food culture, which ensures sustainability of soybean production and

- 40 -
marketing in the long run.

Fig. 9 Sustainability of soybean production and marketing
Seed supply to Afghan soy farmers has been self-sustainable since 2011, and seed import from
the U.S. is no longer needed. Seven seed companies from each agricultural zone are partnering
with NEI to produce certified soybean seeds, thus a local supply has been developed for Afghan
farmers.
Growth of soybean in Afghanistan is highly promising. It started in 2006 with two U.S. varieties
(Stine 3300 and 3870) approved by the National Seed Commission. These seeds were approved
following successful adaptation trials of six US soybean varieties tested by Ministry of Agriculture,
Irrigation & Livestock (MAIL) and Nutrition and Education International (NEI) in 2004 and 2005.
By 2010, over 2000 farmers were cultivating soybean spread across 34 provinces. Farmers use
harvested soybeans to nourish their families and sell the surplus to soy flour factories. By 2015,
soybean consumption has become popular. In 2015 the Afghan farmers produced the high
amount of soybeans in the history of the country. Around 13,000 Afghan farmers are cultivating
soybean by 2015.

- 41 -
In 2014, 2,000 MT soybeans were produced by the NEI farmers. That figure increased
dramatically to an estimated 4000 MT by 2015.
Since 2008, NEI and ARIA have tested new, high performance varieties from the United States and
the Republic of Korea to develop new and improved seed varieties for each of seven ecological
zones of Afghanistan to ensure production of high yield soybeans.
The first trial was of 9 varieties tested at nine agriculture research stations in 7 ecological zones
over a period of 3 years. Consequently, 3 new varieties were identified as having the capacity to
surpass international average yield standards.
Soya bean seeds approved by the government in 2012 include Hwangkeum of Korea, Stine 3300-2
and Gateway 9876 both of the U.S. Besides, ongoing new trials include twenty-five varieties from
the US and Republic of Korea are being tested currently.
Sustainable supply of soya bean seed is also ensured through training of farmers and supply of
farm. NEI is working with local farmers to develop a soy seed market in Afghanistan, to ensure the
access to a reliable domestic source of protein. The farmers received training on soybean
cultivation and home use of harvested soybeans. By 2010, NEI was able to reach 6,000 new
farmers in all 34 provinces in cooperation with 600 MAIL extension agronomists who were
initially trained by NEI. To date, NEI has trained 70,000 farmers including female farmers and
school teachers. After agriculture training, the farmers also received soybean seeds, fertilizers,
and nitrogen-fixing bacteria inoculants.
Sustainable supply of soybean is not affected by drought or snowfall, since it is grown throughout
the country. In case of drought in one province, the industry is not affected because of
commercial soybean is also being produced in other provinces where there is no drought. If in
case of country wide drought, then the soybean industry could import raw soybean from Ukraine,
Tajikistan or several other neighbouring countries.
3.3.7 ANTICIPATED GROWTH OF THE SOYBEAN PRODUCTION IN AFGHANISTAN
Soybean production in Afghanistan has witnessed significant growth over the years and is

- 42 -
anticipated to grow consistently in coming years. Soybean production was 4,000 MT in 2015. It is
projected to increase to 50,000 MT by 2021 and 300,000 MT by 2030.
3.4 MEASURES WITH REGARD TO NATURAL DISASTERS
Earthquake: The earthquake factor is considered in design of the factory building. An assembly
area is provided in front of the factory. In case of any earthquake the workers will go and
assemble in this area for safety from earthquake.
Fire: There is an assembly area provided in front of the factory and in case of any fire all the
workers will assemble here for safety from fire. The proponent would ensure that all the fire
safety requirements are accomplished. Fire alarm would be installed for alerting. Fire
extinguishers would be installed at the strategic locations in the factory. All the staff would be
trained on fire safety. However this is a very less fire risk industry.
Blasting/Firing: Factory has a place for safety from blasting/ firing. Bunkers are provided in front
of the factory for workers to take shelter.
Floods: The factory is situated in a safe area where there is no chance of floods.
3.5 SOYA BEAN PROCESSING FACTORY AND PRODUCTS
Soy milk is a high protein, iron-rich milk-like product produced from soya beans. It resembles
regular milk in appearance but is higher in protein and iron content and is cholesterol-free, low
fat and low sodium. Soy milk is a popular alternative to regular milk among lactose intolerant,
milk-allergic and vegans.
3.6 THE MANUFACTURING PROCESS
Soybeans and water are the main ingredients necessary for production of soy milk. The
manufacturing process for soy milk is shown in Figure 10.

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Fig. 10 Protein recovery from soybean
The soybean is a low acid food and as such, is a good host for the breeding of harmful bacteria.
Thus, the manufacturing process is "aseptic," meaning that at a certain point in its production, the
soy milk is sealed off from any air because it might introduce dangerous bacteria into the product.
The development of successful, affordable aseptic production of soy milk has been of tremendous
importance in the mass production of this beverage. The initial phases of the production of soy
milk do not have to be sealed off to air; only later does this happen.
3.6.1 PROCURING THE RAW MATERIALS
The factory established the contact directly with farmers through NEIs farmers associations
and cooperatives, so that the kind of soybean cultivated is one that produces good soy milk.
Once the soybeans are harvested and brought to the plant, the beans are cleaned in a grain

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elevator or bin on or off premises.
3.6.2 DE-HULLING
The soybeans are steamed and split in half. This loosens the hull on the bean. A fan separates
the hulls. Soya bean hulls are collected @ 20 to 30 kilograms per metric tonne of soybean
processing. This byproduct is sold as fuel to those interested to buy.
3.6.3 INVALIDATING THE INDIGESTIBLE ENZYME
Next, soybeans are cooked in order to invalidate, or counteract, a specific enzyme which
makes them indigestible to humans. This cooking occurs in the Enzyme Invalidator, in which
the de-hulled soybeans are cooked using high pressure, water, and high temperature
(creating very hot live steam) to invalidate that enzyme. The bean cooker has a safety valve
for pressure release and it is operated safely.
3.6.4 GRINDING
The cooked soybeans then sent into the grinder or mill. Water is added to the machine and
the bean pieces are grounded in this milling.
The grinder further pulverizes the bean pellets into small particles. The hot slurry is white in
color with minuscule particles of insoluble soybean particles.
3.6.5 EXTRACTING
A large centrifuge is then used to extract the tiny bits of soybean that are insoluble and
cannot be included in the finished product. These particles are separated from the soy milk
slurry. A rubber roller presses the soy milk slurry against the surface of a drum within the
centrifuge, forcing the liquid inside the drum while the fibers remain on the outside of the
drum. The drum is then scraped of these fibers.
These soybean fibers are physically removed from the production process at this time. This
waste soy fiber is called okara and it resembles mashed potatoes. A separate process dries the

- 45 -
okara for use other than human consumption. Per metric tonne of soybean processed, about
300 kilograms of Okara is collected. It is disposed to the chicken feed factory in Kabul. As
chicken feed, it has a high nutritional value. Everyday a small truck would collect this material
and transport it to the chicken feed factory in Kabul.
The fiber-less soy liquid is raw soy milk at this point and is referred to in the industry as jun.
3.6.6 BLENDING
The jun is injected into large tanks and flavorings, sugar, and vitamins are mixed separately in
tanks. Ingredients of the smaller tank are infused into the larger tanks, thus blending the
flavors with the raw milk.
3.6.7 ASEPTIC STERILIZATION
At this point, it is essential that the jun be sealed within the equipment until the end of the
manufacturing process (including packaging) in order to keep out air and ambient bacteria
and germs that can grow in low-acid soy milk. Sterilization occurs with pressure and very hot
temperatures within a vacuum for a short period of time.
3.6.8 HOMOGENIZING
From the sterilizer, the hot milk is sent to the homogenizer. This breaks down the fat particles
and prevents them from separating from the rest of the mixture. In the homogenizer, which is
essentially a high-pressure piston pump, it is blended as it is drawn into the pump cylinder
and then forced back out in a repetitive motion.

- 46 -

3.6.9 COOLING
Next, the hot milk is piped to the cooling tank. Here, the hot milk passes next to cold plates
that lower the temperature of the soy milk to room temperature.
3.6.10 STORING
The cooled milk is sent to the aseptic (sealed) tanks and held here in preparation for
packaging. Here, the soy milk is refrigerated, pressurized, and sealed to ensure no bacteria
thrives in the milk.
3.6.11 PACKAGING
A very important part of the production is the aseptic packaging of the product. Packaging
machines have been developed for this product that are able to mechanically package the
product without exposing it to air. The cooled milk is sent to this packaging machine for
packing in pouches.

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3.6.12 QUALITY CONTROL
Quality control begins with acquiring high quality soybean for the production of soy milk. The
beans considered most desirable for the process are called clear hylem, with a white (or colorless)
hylem on the body of the bean. The clear hylem variety is considered more flavorful.
The production of soy milk is meticulously monitored to ensure that no bacteria grows in the low
acid medium. Thus, quality control checkpoints are established in the production. Temperatures
of water, steam, and the monitoring of pressure is essential in this process. In addition, the
product is constantly analyzed as a sample of the product is taken off the line very frequently
checked for pH, temperature, and bacterial growth (many samples are cultured). Because the
product is sealed off from the workers for much of the production, visual checks occur primarily
as the product comes off the line. Here, workers check to ensure packages are properly sealed.
3.7 STATUTORY EQUIPMENT
In compliance with EIA and line departments requirements the the statutory equipment and
systems would be in place. Such as: Boilers, compressors, transformers, electricity supply system,
acid storage facility, effluent storage and disposal, laboratory, mechanical equipment, vehicles,
and sanitary conditions.
3.8 BYPRODUCTS/ WASTE
Okara is the insoluble fiber that is removed from the raw soybean. The okara is dried and
transformed into a high-fiber, high-protein animal feed. The dried okara is now sold to farmers
for feed, thus eliminating a storage and waste problem at most soy milk plants. It has proven to
be invaluable to farmers who raise organically fed animals because many soy milk producers only
take in organically grown soybeans. Thus, the dried okara feed produced from these beans is
considered organic and acceptable for feed.
3.9 SOY MILK PRODUCTS
Products of the project include four types with flavors and each one requires different raw
materials. Details of raw materials used for each flavor are given below:

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Strawberry Flavor
Soybeans, filtered water, sugar, soybean oil, high fructose corn syrup, strawberry concentrate,
salt, glycerin mono fatty acid ester, strawberry flavor, xanthan gum and artificial red coloring
Allura Red AC (E129).
Banana Flavor
Soybeans, filtered water, soybean oil, sugar, banana concentrate, salt, banana flavor, glycerin
mono fatty acid ester, and xanthan gum.
Chocolate Flavor
Soybeans, filtered water, sugar, corn oil, high fructose corn syrup, cocoa powder, glycerin mono
fatty acid ester, chocolate flavor, and carrageenan.
Sweetened Plain (no flavor)
Soybeans, filtered water, corn oil, sugar, high fructose corn syrup, salt, cereal flavor, xanthan
gum, and glycerin mono fatty acid ester.
Note: The final products that is, 40,000 pouches (@ 190 ml per pouch) produced per day can be
any one or some or all the flavors mentioned above, based on the demand from users.
3.10 PROJECT SCALE
The project aims at producing commercial soy milk for the large scale Afghan market. The soy
milk factory will produce daily 40,000 single serving size pouches (@190 ml per pouch) or
2,050,000 liters per year. The soy milk pouches will have a 10-month shelf-life without
refrigeration. Another of NEI’s factory in Kapisa processes 600 MT of soybeans annually and
produces 60 MT of crude soy oil. NEI’s mission and vision is to produce 300,000 metric tons of
soybeans for domestic consumption, which is equivalent to 100,000 metric tons of absorbable
proteins which will be sufficient to eradicate protein-energy malnutrition (PEM) among women
and children, particularly in rural areas of Afghanistan.

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3.11 PROPOSED STAFF
About 35 people would be required in the factory for a shift. Rules and regulations for recruiting
the people would be followed. A human resources manual would be developed for the factory.
About 20 percent of women would be employed in the factory. Experienced people would be
taken, however, before assigning the job responsibilities, trainings would be imparted in all the
respective disciplines and job responsibilities.
The soya bean processing factory comprises the following staff:

# Staff Qualifications Numbers
1 Management and supervision staff:
a Plant manager At least Graduate 1
b Sir automation Eng. At least Graduate 1
c QA Executive At least Graduate 1
d Production executive At least Graduate 1
2 Technical staff:
a Automation Background electronic technician Technical
diploma
2
b Electrical technical Technical
diploma
1

3 Non-technical staff:
a Operation 12th
grade 7
b Logistics 12th
grade 2
c Transportation 12th
grade 3
4 Other personnel (hired as per the requirement
from time to time):

a Guards, Cleaners and Generators 12th
grade 6

3.12 SUPPLY AND INSTALLATION OF EQUIPMENT FOR THE FACTORY
The leased equipment shall be owned by and title shall be held in the name of the NEI team. So
Healthy Food Production LTD Company shall use the Leased Equipment during the term of this
Agreement, at locations agreed upon by both parties and within a layout as directed by the NEI
technical team.

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4 THE PROJECT AREA
4.1 PHYSICAL ENVIRONMENT
4.1.1 PROJECT AREA
So Healthy Food Production LTD Company is situated in Pol-e-Charkhi Industrial Park, Block A,
Street 5, Unit Last (North), on the Jalalabad Road, Kabul. (Latitude: 34.558028 Longitude:
69.243972).
4.1.2 GEOLOGY
Afghanistan, from a geologic perspective, is a complex amalgamation of small tectono-
stratigraphic terranes, each with its own unique geologic history. None of these terranes, save
may be the northwestern one, can be said to presently be in the place that it originated. Instead,
most of Afghanistan was assembled bit-by-bit out of pieces that came from someplace else.

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Fig. 11 Kabul Basin Strata Profile illustration

Fig. 12 Kabul Basin

- 52 -
Most of the area in the city consists of reworked loess characterized as highly erosive. The
Paghman fault is located along the foot of Paghman Mountains in the west side of the city. The
fault is a part of the Chaman fault system, which is considered to be the most major tectonic line
in Afghanistan and to be a probable active fault.
4.1.3 WATER RESOURCES
Afghanistan’s water resources are divided into five major river basins, which comprise 41
watersheds. In general, shortage of water constrains agricultural development to a larger area in
the country.
Kabul is surrounded by Koh-e-Paghman Mountain from the east, Koh-e Qrough Mountain from
the south-west and Koh-e-Shirdarwaza Mountain from the north-east. Kabul has only one river
which is Kabul River. Kabul River rises at the Paghman Mountain toward South Pass about 70 km
(43 mi) west of Kabul. The Kabul Municipality is located in the northern part of the Kabul (Indus)
River Basin, which is generally called as the Kabul River Basin. The proposed project being part of
the government approved Pol-e-Charkhi industrial park is assured of required water requirement
of the unit.
4.1.4 FLORA AND FAUNA
There used to be a green belt around the city center with a total area of around 10,000 ha. Most
part, however, has been lost and there are only nine green areas exist, which are administered by
the Section of Environment, MAIL. Main trees planted are: oleaster (Russian olive), elm, plane
tree, pine, and willow.
As the proposed factory is located in the heart of Kabul city and in the designate industrial area,
there is not much fauna except for the local birds which are adapted to living in Kabul city, such
as sparrows and pigeons. With the presence of the airport in the neighborhood, even these birds
are very rare to be found.

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4.1.5 CLIMATE
The Kabul city is located between latitude 34.53 N, and longitude 69.17 E, having an average
elevation 1805 m. The Project area has a cold semi-arid climate (Köppen climate
classification BSk) with precipitation concentrated in the winter (almost exclusively falling as
snow) and spring months. Total annual precipitation averages 312 mm (12.3 inches) which is
equivalent to 312 Liters/m² (7.65 Gallons/ft²).
According to the Holdridge life zones system of bioclimatic classification Kabul is situated in or
near the cool temperate steppe biome. Temperatures are relatively cool, mainly due to the high
elevation of the city. Summer has very low humidity, providing relief from the heat. Autumn
features warm afternoons and sharply cooler evenings. Winters are cold, with a January daily
average of −2.3 °C (27.9 °F). Spring is the wettest time of the year, though temperatures are
generally amiable. Sunny conditions dominate year-round. The average temperature is 12
degrees Celsius (53.6 degrees Fahrenheit).
The area within 40 km of Kabul International Airport has a cold desert climate and covered by
Shrublands (50%), Grasslands (41%), and Croplands (8%).

- 54 -
Fig. 13 Daily High and Low Temperature
The daily average low (blue) and high (red) temperature with percentile bands (inner band from
25th to 75th percentile, outer band from 10th to 90th percentile).
4.2 SOCIAL ENVIRONMENT
4.2.1 POPULATION
Kabul, the capital of Afghanistan, is the largest city of the country, with a population of about 3
million. Kabul is home to 10.5 percent of the total population of Afghanistan; with its 2,425,067
inhabitants, it is the most populous province in the country. “Central Statistical Organization of
the Government of Islamic Republic of Afghanistan has recently published the estimated national
population for the year 2015-2016. According to this estimation, the settled population of the
country for the year 2015-2016 is 27.1 million of which 20.4 million people live in rural

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Afghanistan and only 6.7 million people live in 66 cities of Afghanistan. The annual growth rate of
urban population of Afghanistan is amongst the highest in the world with 3.97% (2010-2015
estimate)”.
The city of Kabul is one of the 15 districts of Kabul Province which is further divided into 18 city
districts or sectors. Each city district covers several neighborhoods. The number of districts or
sectors in Kabul increased from 11 to 18 in 2005.
As is generally found in most developing countries, the largest share of the population—close to
four persons out of five—lives in the provincial center, Kabul. Among the remaining 14 districts,
Paghman comes second with 3.4 percent of the total population, Bagrami third with 2.8 percent,
Shakar Dara fourth with 2.4, Qara Bagh fifth with 2.1percent, and Dih Sabz sixth with two percent.
In the rest of the provinces, the proportions vary between 1.9 percent in Surubi, and 0.3 percent
in Khaki Jabbar.
Kabul is the only province in the country where the majority of the population lives in urban areas
i.e., four persons out of every five. However, almost the totality of such urban population lives in
the district of Kabul.

- 56 -

Fig. 14 Land use map of Kabul province

Fig. 15 Land use of Kabul city

- 57 -
Kabul is situated about 1,800 m above mean sea level in a valley, wedged between the Hindu
Kush Mountains. The built up area of Kabul is 140 km2
and the city has grown in two adjacent
valleys separated by north-south running mountain range. For administrative purposes, the city is
divided into 16 districts, of which three districts are peri-urban and sparsely populated.
Kabul’s average population density is about 215 persons per hectare (p/Ha). Kabul’s population
density, contrary to many Asian cities, is more dispersed and is higher in the periphery than in the
city center. Demography of Kabul city reflects the impact of massive influx of refugees and
migration from rural areas during two decades of civil strife, and political conflicts. Civic amenities
like water, electricity, hospitals and schools in cities, relative sense of security from violence and
job opportunities attract influx of Afghan refugees and rural population into Kabul.
Besides contributing to high influx from 2000, the war has also affected city’s infrastructure. Poor
city infrastructure, high population density, either deprives the city residents of the access to
urban services or forces to rely on costly alternatives.

- 58 -

Fig. 16 Population of Kabul city (1950 to 2015)
The population of the city reflects the general multi-ethnic and multi-lingual characteristics of
Afghanistan. Nearly all the people of Kabul are Muslims, which includes the majority Sunnis and
minority Shias. A small number of Sikhs, Hindus, and Christians are also found in the city. There is
no official government data on population by ethnicity. The population of the city comprises 45%
Tajiks, 25% Hazaras, 25% Pashtuns, 2% Uzbeks, 1% Baloch, 1% Turkmen, and 1% Hindu. Dari
(Afghan Persian) and Pashto are the most widely used languages in the city, although Dari serves
as the lingua franca.

- 59 -
Kabul, as the capital city, accommodates almost all ethnic groups. The central area of the City is
more ethnically mixed while the outskirts show more dominance of different ethnic groups.
4.2.2 INFRASTRUCTURE
A total of 556,876 building were recorded in the whole province of Kabul, 71 percent of which
(51.686 buildings) were housing units. The remaining 29 percent (79,496 building) represent the
rest of the various types of buildings.
Kabul is located at crossroads to the North through Salang, the South and West (Herat via
Kandahar) and the East to Jalalabad. The city has the country’s principal international airport-
Kabul International Airport. Kabul is the country’s capital and therefore holds all central
governmental agencies. Its infrastructure has been improved continuously in the last decades,
though the standard is still considered as low.
Kabul city had three Master plans formulated in 1962, 1970 and 1978. The third Master Plan
proposed the following land use for Kabul City. Around one third of the city comprises individual
houses and commercial buildings. While roads and streets occupy 8.90%, parks and open spaces
constitute 11.00% and a major component of city land use is by mountains and rivers. Details of
the city land use is furnished below:
Table. 3 Land use of Kabul city
Land use Area in (ha) Share %
Roads and Streets 2,878 8.90%
Public Structures 679 2.10%
Parks and open space 3,557 11.00%
Individual houses 4,222 13.06%
Commercial & Residential Buildings 4,574 14.14%
Mountains & Rivers 16,428 50.80%
Total 32,338 100.00%

Residential areas are densely populated and constitute large number of informal settlements.
The informal settlements occupy 76% of residential area in 2008. Around 74% of the population

- 60 -
is estimated to be residents of these informal settlement area in 2008.
4.2.3 ECONOMIC SITUATION
There is no data available on the gross regional domestic product (GRDP) even at the provincial
level. Rough data on employment by sector have been derived from the Strategic Development
Plan for National Capital Region of Kabul (2005-2030), 2007) formulated by the then Ministry of
Urban Development (now the Ministry of Urban Development and Affairs: MoUDA). The Kabul
Metropolitan Area Urban Development (KMAUD) Master Plan Study made an attempt to
estimate the GRDP by sector of Kabul Province by applying the macro national statistics with
modifications.
The data on employment by sector are combined with the GDP in 2006/07 to calculate the value
added per employment by sector. There exists significant variance between different sectors. The
value added per employment is significantly higher in Kabul Province than the national averages
for the industry and the services sectors as it contains the capital region. The value added per
employment in agriculture is also higher in Kabul Province than the national average as the
province produces comparatively larger amount of fruits rather than grains. The value added per
employment is assumed by sector for Kabul Province, and the GRDP by sector is calculated.
The estimated GRDP in the province is US$ 1,166 million, corresponding to 16.2% of the GDP of
Afghanistan. This share is slightly larger than the employment share (15.4%) of the province to
the national total employment. The employment structure of Kabul Province is 79.4% agriculture,
5.7% industry, and 14.9% services, while the GRDP structure of the province is 37.6% agriculture,
27.0% industry, and 35.4% services.
Although the population in Kabul Province is 80% urban, the majority of people still depend on
agriculture. The sizeable agricultural land, 143.2km2 or 14.0% of the city land, exists even within
the city territory. It should be noted, however, that the agricultural employment includes sizable
employment in agricultural services. For instance, if farm product is marketed in urban areas by
farmers themselves, this activity represents the services employment, while the farmers are

- 61 -
counted in the agricultural employment. This results in considerable underestimation of the
services employment as shown above.
According to a study in nine different livelihood areas in Kabul city (Action Centre La Faim, Kabul
Vulnerability Mapping, Jan. 2004), many households rely on the daily work. In seven out of nine
survey zones, over 30% of the household’s primary income earners rely on daily wage labor. On
average 33.6% of households rely on daily work for their primary income.
Another survey (AREU, Urban livelihood in Afghanistan, Aug. 2006) shows the conditions of
employment in Kabul city as follows:
• Regular employment: 5%
• Self-employed: 19%
• Casual wage labor: 38%
• Home-based work: 36%
The survey results also indicated that the median number of days of work per year in the city was
131 days and the median monthly per capita income was Afg 446. Poverty is one of the most
serious issues in Afghanistan. The National Risk and Vulnerability Assessment (NRVA) indicated
the poverty incidence at 42% or 12 million people were living below the poverty line, with the
average income of US$14/month/capita (2007). Moreover, additional 20% of people were only
slightly above the poverty line under highly vulnerable conditions. Recent researches indicated
that urban poverty increased and positively correlated with the growing urban population.
4.2.4 HEALTH AND HYGIENIC SITUATION
Rapid urbanization in Kabul has been a major concern for deteriorating health and hygiene
conditions of the city. Major sources of air pollution in Kabul is vehicular traffic, and construction
activity. One of the key indicators is the growth of vehicle numbers which is directly related with
growth in fuel combustion, more movement, and traffic congestion which lead to more emissions
and more re-suspension of dust from dusty roads. Another major source for particulate pollutants
is construction activities that demands bricks, gravels, sand, and cement. Industries producing

- 62 -
bricks and gravels are concentrated in Kabul and are amongst the major contributors to
particulate pollutants. Other sources of air pollution are industrial activities using fossil fuel,
generators to back up the electricity shortages, refuse burning, and use of wood and other fuels
for heating purposes.
The discharges of untreated industrial, commercial and domestic wastewater into drains and
water bodies and also the dumping of hazardous and toxic wastes into land and open spaces
must have resulted in contamination of the groundwater resources with toxic pollutants, and no
studies on such pollution issues are available for Kabul, neither the impact on human health. No
efforts are being made so far to monitor the noise quality in Kabul nor to assess its impact on the
health of citizen.
“The pace of rapid urbanization in Afghan cities particularly in Kabul has led to increased pressure
on the environment in terms of air pollution linked to increased transportation, an increase in
solid waste, the depletion and degradation of the fresh water supplies, soil degradation, and
noisy environment. Afghanistan lacks reliable data on environmental quality and only scattered
information are available. Efforts are made to provide status on these key environmental
problems in Kabul and how it is impacting the life of millions of people living in this capital city.
The severity of the air pollution problems in Kabul and other major cities continue to pose a
significant threat to human health, the environment and the quality of life of millions of people
living here”, observed Ghulam Mohammad Malikyar, DDG/NEPA at the First Forum of Ministers
and Environment Authorities Of Asia and Pacific 19-20 May 2015 Bangkok-Thailand1
.
Water resources are being polluted due to disposal of untreated industrial and domestic effluent,
and the discharge of household and street waste directly into streams. In urban areas, most of
the demand of water is supplied from groundwater sources; cross-contamination is a significant
issue. Assessment has found that urban drinking water supplies are often being cross-

1
http://www.unep.org/roap/Portals/96/Ministerial%20Forum%20Prep%20Meeting%20Agenda/Afghanistan%20statement%20in
%201st%20Forum%20UNEA.pdf

Environmental and Social Impact Assessment of Soya Bean processing factory, Kabul, Afghanistan

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