MEV 016: Unit 01 - Fundamentals of EIA

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 UNIT 1: FUNDAMENTALS OF EIA

1.1 Introduction

Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) is a vital tool used to assess the possible environmental effects—both positive and negative—of a proposed project or development before it is carried out. EIA helps decision-makers consider environmental impacts while planning major projects such as dams, roads, industries, mining operations, or urban infrastructure.

It ensures that potential environmental problems are predicted and addressed at an early stage, allowing for the design of environmentally sound and sustainable projects.

1.2 Objectives

After reading this unit, you will be able to:

  • Understand the concept and need for EIA.
  • Define EIA and explain its key components.
  • Explore the historical background and global evolution of EIA.
  • Describe the scope and objectives of EIA in project planning.
  • Understand the principles that guide effective EIA practices.
  • Analyze the development and legal framework of EIA in India.

1.3 Definition and Concepts

Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) is a process of evaluating the likely environmental impacts of a proposed activity, including both beneficial and adverse effects.

According to the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP),

"EIA is a tool used to identify the environmental, social, and economic impacts of a project prior to decision-making."

Key Concepts:

  • Environment: Includes air, water, land, natural resources, flora, fauna, and humans.
  • Impact: Any change (positive or negative) in the environment caused by human activities.
  • Assessment: Systematic analysis and prediction of potential impacts.

EIA helps in identifying possible mitigation measures to reduce the negative effects of development on the environment.

1.4 Concept of EIA

EIA is based on the concept of preventive environmental management. Rather than reacting to environmental damage after it occurs, EIA seeks to anticipate and avoid it.

Key Features:

  • Predicts environmental consequences before projects are implemented.
  • Identifies alternatives to the proposed project.
  • Suggests ways to mitigate negative impacts.
  • Ensures public participation in environmental decisions.
  • Helps in sustainable development by balancing economic growth and environmental protection.

Stages of EIA:

  1. Screening – Decides if a project requires EIA.
  2. Scoping – Identifies which impacts need detailed study.
  3. Impact Assessment – Predicts and evaluates impacts.
  4. Mitigation – Suggests measures to reduce adverse impacts.
  5. Reporting (EIA Report/Environmental Statement) – Summarizes findings.
  6. Public Consultation – Involves the local community.
  7. Decision-Making – Approves, modifies, or rejects the project.
  8. Monitoring – Ensures compliance during implementation.

1.5 History and Origin of EIA

The concept of EIA originated in the United States through the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) of 1969, which became a model for other countries.

Global Development:

  • 1970s: Spread to Canada, Australia, and Europe.
  • 1980s–90s: Formal adoption by many developing nations.
  • International institutions like the World Bank and Asian Development Bank began requiring EIAs for funded projects.

EIA has evolved from being a technical report to a participatory and policy-driven process.

1.6 Scope and Objectives of EIA

The scope of EIA includes any human activity that may cause environmental degradation. Projects requiring EIA can be:

  • Industrial projects (chemical plants, cement factories)
  • Infrastructure (highways, airports, power plants)
  • Natural resource extraction (mining, oil drilling, logging)
  • Urban development (housing projects, SEZs)

Objectives:

  • To identify, predict, and evaluate the potential environmental impacts.
  • To propose preventive or corrective actions (mitigation measures).
  • To inform project design and planning.
  • To ensure legal compliance with environmental regulations.
  • To provide a platform for public participation.
  • To help policymakers make informed decisions.

1.7 Principles of EIA

Effective EIA processes are based on certain fundamental principles:

  1. Sustainability – Promotes development that meets present needs without compromising the future.
  2. Integrity – The assessment should be fair, objective, and accurate.
  3. Flexibility – Should adapt to different project types and environmental contexts.
  4. Accountability – Developers and authorities must take responsibility.
  5. Participation – Encourages involvement of stakeholders and affected communities.
  6. Transparency – All steps of the process should be open and accessible.

1.8 Development of EIA in India

India formally introduced EIA in 1994 through the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 under the EIA Notification issued by the Ministry of Environment and Forests (MoEF).

Timeline:

  • 1994: EIA made mandatory for 30 categories of projects.
  • 2006: Revised EIA Notification – introduced categorization of projects (Category A & B), public hearing, scoping, etc.
  • 2020 (Draft EIA Notification): Proposed changes sparked public debate due to concerns over dilution of public participation and environmental safeguards.

Institutions Involved:

  • Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC)
  • State Environmental Impact Assessment Authorities (SEIAAs)
  • Expert Appraisal Committees (EACs)
  • Pollution Control Boards

1.9 Let Us Sum Up

  • EIA is an essential planning tool to anticipate and mitigate environmental impacts of development projects.
  • It supports sustainable development and environmental protection.
  • EIA is a legal requirement in India under the Environment (Protection) Act.
  • The process of EIA involves screening, scoping, assessment, reporting, public consultation, and decision-making.
  • Effective EIA relies on public participation, transparency, and scientific analysis.
  • India’s EIA mechanism has evolved significantly and continues to play a key role in project approvals and environmental governance.

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