Lecture Marine environmental studies - Topic: Environmental impact assessment. In this chapter, the following content will be discussed: EIA, what is EIA? Data used in EIA, secondary data analysis, the steps in an EIA, which projects require EIA?. | ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT EIA EIA is one of the proven management tools for incorporating environmental concerns in development process and also in improved decision making. The growing awareness, over the years, on environmental protection and sustainable development has further given emphasis on sound environmental management practices through preparation of Environmental Management Plan (EMPs) for minimizing the impacts from developmental activities. EIA cont’d It has been recognized that preventive, rather than “react and cure” approaches are more efficient and effective means of managing environmental problems. What is EIA?? The EIA concept is a very simple one. It requires a careful assessment of the environmental implications (ecological, social, cultural and economic) of development policies, programmes and projects before irrevocable decisions are made. EIA is the measurement of the likely environmental impacts of a development and how to mitigate these | ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT EIA EIA is one of the proven management tools for incorporating environmental concerns in development process and also in improved decision making. The growing awareness, over the years, on environmental protection and sustainable development has further given emphasis on sound environmental management practices through preparation of Environmental Management Plan (EMPs) for minimizing the impacts from developmental activities. EIA cont’d It has been recognized that preventive, rather than “react and cure” approaches are more efficient and effective means of managing environmental problems. What is EIA?? The EIA concept is a very simple one. It requires a careful assessment of the environmental implications (ecological, social, cultural and economic) of development policies, programmes and projects before irrevocable decisions are made. EIA is the measurement of the likely environmental impacts of a development and how to mitigate these Data used in EIA Primary data Secondary data Secondary Data Analysis They attempt to organize and simplify available information and the potential effects on the environment of the proposed project. They usually involve expert opinion and value judgments rather than factual information and analysis of data. Almost all simple EIA methodologies focus on direct environmental impacts. They are not suitable for assessing indirect impacts. Secondary Data Analysis – cont’d Most of the simple EIA procedures do not set time and space boundaries for the assessment, and they seldom encourage the use of monitoring to measure the effects of the project after conservation. THE STEPS IN AN EIA Preliminary activities – understand what is being proposed and why. Impact identification (scoping) - time and spatial boundaries, conceptual boundary Baseline study – what is the current situation to be measured against impacts? Impact evaluation (qualification) Mitigation measures – measures to .
