ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT

Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) serves to deliver projects that have considered the potential environmental impacts associated with a large development. The EIA process should identify potential environmental issues so that solutions may be implemented to minimize the potential impact. There are various stages to undertaking an EIA, the first of which is to determine whether or not the project actually requires a full EIA to be undertaken. This is known as “Screening”. If a full EIA is not required, it has often proved prudent to undertake a limited number of environmental assessments in relation to specific topics, such as air quality or noise, etc. Should it be determined that an EIA is required, a detailed report will be created detailing: the project and its location (including existing environmental situation); the assessments that will be undertaken; justification for why these assessments are considered necessary; and, the assessment methodology that will be followed.

This process, referred to as “Scoping” is not a legal requirement, but experience has shown that this approach sets the project off on the right foot from the start •The end product of an EIA is a series of documents to be submitted to the Appropriate Authority. This will include:
• a non-technical summary (NTS)
•an Environmental Statement – describing the project and presenting the various assessments
undertaken
• technical appendices
The EIA process considers alternatives to the proposed development, such as geographical location, layout, infrastructure, technology or indeed whether there is a need for the project at all – the “do nothing” alternative. EIA projects are considered in light of international and national legislation, policies at all levels of Government and are assessed in line with best practice.

The EIA may include assessment of one or more of the following broad headings:
Air Quality;
Cultural and Natural Heritage;
Human Health Effects;
Landscape and Visual Effects;
Noise and Vibration;
Soils and Geology;
Solid Residues;
Traffic;
Water; and,
The cumulative effect of any of the above. We have the expertise to undertake all of the assessments mentioned above. We also have a close network of teaming partners who provide complementary knowledge and expertise so that all issues can be addressed.