Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) is a process of evaluating the likely environmental impacts of a proposed project or development, taking into account inter-related socio-economic, cultural and human-health impacts, both beneficial and adverse.

During the assessment of these applications, the Authority takes into consideration foreseeable impacts which may arise out of any new or significantly modified construction, process, works or other activity as outlined by the Order. At the preliminary phase of the assessment of the proposed project, if potential significant environmental and human health impacts have been identified, the applicant may be asked to conduct an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA).

The EIA is a study which identifies the likely effects the project as whole may have on the environment and society Rule 10 (e) of the Certificate of Environmental Clearance Rules, 2001. An Environmental Impact Assessment is a tool which assists in the decision making process.

The EIA process involves a systematic, reproducible, and interdisciplinary evaluation of the potential physical, biological, cultural, and socioeconomic effects of a proposed action and its practical alternatives. Proposed actions may include projects, programs, policies, or plans. As a decision making tool, EIA provides a means for decision makers to better integrate environmental, human health and socio-economic concerns as it relates to the environment. It provides the opportunity for all stakeholders involved in a proposed action, including the public, to participate in the identification of issues of concern, practical alternatives, and to identify opportunities to avoid or mitigate adverse impacts.

The process begins with a decision to proceed with EIA and involves:

• The implementation of plans for public participation and stakeholder involvement,
• Documentation of purpose and need,
• Scoping of important issues and interests in the proposed action as well as its alternatives,
• Development of baseline information on the natural and human environments,
• Assessment of impacts and development of a decision making document,
• A plan for the mitigation of impacts

The information contained in the EIA report will be used in the decision-making process to determine whether or not a CEC will be granted for the proposed project. If a CEC is granted, a Certificate will be issued which will contain appropriate mitigation and monitoring measures to ensure compliance.