Definition
Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) can be defined as: The process of identifying, predicting, evaluating and mitigating the biophysical, social, and other relevant effects of development proposals prior to major decisions being taken and commitments made. For more information Click Here to download the full document in pdf format
Our Approach
Today, EIA is a legal requirement for most countries. Our EIA incorporates modern methodology in which a more holistic approach to assessments (often referred to as Integrated Impact Assessments or IIA) is adopted. Whenever appropriate; socioeconomic, cultural and health effects are considered as an integral part of EIA. Particular attention is given in EIA practice to preventing, mitigating and offsetting the significant adverse effects of proposed undertakings.
Regardless of the nature of the project or enterprise (public or private), our EIA services provide essential benefits to all stakeholders involved:
- Improve the environmental design of the proposal;
- Ensure that resources are used appropriately and efficiently;
- Identify appropriate measures for mitigating the potential impacts of the proposal; and
- facilitate informed decision making, including setting the environmental terms and conditions for implementing the proposal.
Long term benefits of EIA are to:
- Protect human health and safety;
- Avoid irreversible changes and serious damage to the environment;
- Safeguard valued resources, natural areas and ecosystem components; and
- Enhance the social aspects of the proposal.
GAIA's expertise with its special emphasis on Environmental Impact Assessments can guide, coordinate, evaluate, monitor and review the EIA for both private and public sector projects
Environmental & Social Impact Assessment