Elements of environmental impact assessment.
Answers
Key stages in the Environmental Assessment process include: screening, alternatives, preliminary assessment, scoping, mitigation, main EIA study and environmental impact statement, review and monitoring
Answer:
The use of an environmental impact assessment as an effective tool for achieving goals of sustainable development was discussed. The purpose of an environmental impact assessment (EIA) was defined as predicting the degradation of environmental quality and suggesting measures to prevent any negative consequences. Some of the benefits of applying EIA to economic developments were outlined: (1) more efficient and productive use of natural resources, (2) lower project costs in the long term, and (3) avoidance or remedial measures planned and implemented in time to minimize adverse impacts on the environment. Key elements for conducting an EIA, tools and techniques, prediction of impacts and evaluation of impact significance were reviewed. A set of exercises for teaching purposes was included. Case studies dealing with fictional situations were presented in which a student is asked to apply the lessons learned by using this manual. The status of EIA training and practice in developing countries was also reviewed. refs., tabs., figs.