Project Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Process
Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) process for an implemented or proposed project follows the following process.
- Screening
This initial step determines whether the proposed project is likely to cause significant environmental impacts. If so, a full Environmental Impact Assessment is initiated. If not, the project may be exempted from further review.
- Scoping
Scoping identifies the key environmental issues to be addressed in the assessment. It defines the study’s scope and focus, emphasizing the most significant potential impacts.
- Baseline Study
Comprehensive data is collected on current environmental conditions, including air and water quality, biodiversity, soil and noise levels. This baseline serves as a reference point for assessing future changes resulting from the project.
- Impact Assessment
This key step analyses the potential environmental impacts of the project – both positive and negative, short-term and long-term. It uses scientific data, models, and expert judgment to assess the significance and likelihood of each impact.
- Mitigation
Mitigation strategies are developed to avoid, reduce, or compensate for adverse environmental impacts. This may include changes to project design, pollution control technologies, or environmental restoration efforts.
- Reporting
The Environmental Impact Statement includes the predicted impacts, proposed mitigation measures, and stakeholder consultation results. This document is submitted to the relevant authorities for assessment.
- Review and Decision
Regulatory agencies and stakeholders review the EIS to assess the adequacy of the analysis and mitigation plan. Based on this review, a decision is made: project approval, conditional approval, or rejection.
- Monitoring
If approved, ongoing monitoring ensures that environmental commitments are being met and mitigation measures are being effectively implemented. It also allows for corrective action if unanticipated impacts arise.
