As with all our projects, the design phases of the GranMorgu project have been conducted with a view to taking into account the impacts that will result from its implementation. An environmental baseline, a specific biodiversity study and a stakeholder mapping were carried out in 2021, followed by an environmental and social impact assessment launched in 2023, applying the IFC’s demanding performance standards 3 and including a focus on human rights, then an industrial baseline in 2024.

Dialogue with stakeholders

As soon as Block 58 was awarded, information and consultation meetings were held with stakeholders in Paramaribo and all the coastal districts, including the indigenous communities of Galibi and Kalebaskreek.

Quarterly meetings have been held since June 2023 as part of a dialogue plan dedicated to the development project. A grievance mechanism has been in place since 2023. The FID announcement was followed by a day of meetings and workshops to exchange views with civil society and professional organizations on the stages of the project and to gather their views.

Maximizing local content

A significant part of the investment will be made locally, contributing to local employment and the economic development of Suriname. Paramaribo will serve as the primary hub for administrative, support and logistics activities. Local companies will be involved in logistics, well services, as well as operations. Overall, local content is estimated to be more than 1 B$ over the duration of the project, and more than 6,000 jobs (direct, indirect and induced) are expected to be created in Suriname.

Acting for people and their environment

Alongside the FID announcement, TotalEnergies and its partner APA signed a memorandum of understanding with the Health Ministry to support the rehabilitation of Paramaribo’s two main mother and child hospitals at a cost of around 13 M$.

A voluntary biodiversity action plan supporting the country’s biodiversity strategy has been in place since January 2024 for a 2-year pilot period, targeting marine, terrestrial and coastal (mangrove) ecosystems.

Actions in favor of education, road safety and health are gradually being implemented as part of a voluntary societal investment plan.