UNIT II
ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT
2.1 EIA PROCESS:
1. Screening:
Screening process divides the project proposals within the following three
categories
Project clearly requiring an EIA.
Project not requiring an EIA.
Project require Initial Environmental Examination (IEE)
IEE is the environmental concern tool; it can assure that the project will be
environmentally feasible.
Screening Criteria are based upon:
Scales of investment
Type of development and
Location of development.
2. Scoping :
Scoping is a process of detailing the terms of reference of EIA. It has to be done
by the consultant in consultation with the project proponent and guidance, if need be,
from Impact Assessment Agency.
Objectives of Scoping:
To identify issues and ensure a relevant EIA methodology
To determine the assessment methods to be used
To provide an opportunity for public involvement.
To save money and time.
To establish Terms of reference for EIA.
Types of Scoping:
Closed scoping – It is predetermined by laws and modified through closed
consultants between a developer and the competent authority.
Open Scoping – A transparent process based on public consultations.
3. Baseline data collection:
Baseline data describes the existing environmental status of the identified study
area.
The site-specific primary data should be monitored for the identified parameters and
supplemented by secondary data if available.
4. Impact prediction:
Impact prediction is a way of mapping the environmental consequences of the
significant aspects of the project and its alternatives.
Environmental impact can never be predicted with absolute certainty and this is
all the more reason to consider all possible factors and take all precautions for reducing
the degree of uncertainty.
5. Environmental Management Plan (EMP):
The EMP is a crucial input to monitoring the clearance conditions and therefore
details of monitoring should be included in the EMP.
An EIA report should provide clear information to the decision-maker on the
different environmental scenarios without the project, with the project and with project
alternatives.
The Environment Management Plan (EMP) is prepared by the Impact
assessment authority after all the above provisions have been complied with.
6. Public Hearing:
Public hearing Law requires that the public must be informed and consulted on a
proposed development after the completion of EIA report.
Any one likely to be affected by the proposed project is entitled to have access to
the Executive Summary of the EIA.
The affected persons may include: bonafide local residents; local associations;
environmental groups: active in area any other person located at the project site / sites
of displacement.
They are to be given an opportunity to make oral/written suggestions to the State
Pollution Control Board.
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7. Decision making:
Decision making process involve consultation between the project proponent
(assisted by a consultant) and the impact assessment authority.
The decision on environmental clearance is arrived at through a number of steps
including evaluation of EIA and EMP.