MEV 016: Unit 09 - Description of the Environmental Setting

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 UNIT 9: DESCRIPTION OF THE ENVIRONMENTAL SETTING

9.0 Introduction

Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) relies heavily on a well-documented understanding of the existing environmental conditions of a project site. This is known as the Environmental Setting or Baseline Environment. It provides a reference point to assess the significance of future environmental impacts that may arise due to proposed projects.

The description of the environmental setting forms a foundational part of the EIA report. It ensures that stakeholders, decision-makers, and regulators are aware of the current status of air, water, soil, ecology, socio-economic conditions, and other environmental factors that might be affected.

9.1 Objectives

After reading this unit, you should be able to:

  • Understand the significance of describing the environmental setting in EIA.
  • Identify which environmental components should be included or excluded.
  • Learn various approaches to selecting environmental factors.
  • Recognize key sources of environmental information.
  • Understand the purpose of collecting baseline environmental data.
  • Explore methods used for information collection.

9.2 Inclusion and Exclusion of Environmental Items

Not all environmental parameters are relevant for every project. The inclusion or exclusion of environmental items depends on the nature, scale, and location of the proposed development.

Inclusion Criteria:

  • Environmental aspects likely to be significantly impacted by the project.
  • Elements regulated by environmental laws or standards.
  • Features of public concern (e.g., air quality, water resources, biodiversity).
  • Parameters critical to ecosystem services or livelihoods.

Commonly Included Items:

  • Air quality
  • Water quality and hydrology
  • Soil characteristics
  • Noise levels
  • Land use and topography
  • Flora and fauna
  • Socio-economic conditions
  • Cultural and archaeological heritage

Exclusion Criteria:

  • Environmental components that are irrelevant to the type of project.
  • Parameters with minimal or no anticipated impact.
  • Factors with limited data availability, if scientifically justified.

However, the rationale for any exclusions must be clearly explained in the EIA documentation.

9.3 Approaches for Developing a List of Environmental Factors

There are several approaches to develop a comprehensive and context-sensitive list of environmental factors for baseline studies:

1. Project-Specific Approach:

Based on the type, size, and expected impacts of the project. For example, a thermal power plant would focus on air emissions, whereas a dam project would focus on water flow and biodiversity.

2. Ecosystem-Based Approach:

Considers the sensitivity and characteristics of the local ecosystem—forests, wetlands, coastal areas, etc.

3. Regulatory Approach:

Based on legal or institutional requirements—such as those under the Environmental Protection Act, EIA Notification, Wildlife Protection Act, or Forest Conservation Act.

4. Stakeholder-Based Approach:

Involves identifying concerns raised by local communities, NGOs, and other stakeholders. For example, a tribal population might prioritize forest access and water availability.

5. Expert Judgment:

Relies on expert consultations, drawing on experience from similar projects and local knowledge.

Often, a combination of these approaches is used to ensure a robust and inclusive list of environmental factors.

9.4 Informational Sources for Environmental Factors

Reliable and credible data sources are essential for describing the environmental setting. These sources may include:

Primary Data Sources:

  • Field surveys (e.g., flora/fauna, air/water sampling)
  • On-site measurements using instruments
  • Interviews with local residents
  • Soil and noise testing

Secondary Data Sources:

  • Government reports (e.g., Central Pollution Control Board, Forest Survey of India)
  • Environmental research journals and case studies
  • Satellite imagery and GIS maps
  • Data from environmental NGOs or academic institutions
  • Census and socio-economic data
  • Meteorological data from IMD (India Meteorological Department)

Using both primary and secondary data sources enhances the accuracy and credibility of the environmental baseline.

9.5 Purpose of Information

The environmental setting serves several key purposes in the EIA process:

  • Establishing Baseline Conditions: Provides a snapshot of the existing environment prior to project initiation.
  • Impact Prediction and Evaluation: Allows for comparison between current and post-project environmental conditions.
  • Legal Compliance: Helps meet regulatory requirements under environmental laws.
  • Public Participation: Ensures transparency and helps address stakeholder concerns with factual data.
  • Decision Support: Enables authorities to make informed decisions about project approvals or modifications.

Without a proper description of the baseline environment, it is impossible to assess the magnitude or significance of project impacts.

9.6 Methods of Information Collection

Several methodologies are used to collect environmental information. The choice of method depends on the parameter being studied, the project location, and available resources.

Common Methods Include:

  • Field Surveys: Direct observation and data collection for flora, fauna, water sources, etc.
  • Sampling and Laboratory Analysis: Air, water, and soil samples are collected and analyzed to determine quality.
  • Remote Sensing and GIS: Used for land use mapping, forest cover, terrain analysis.
  • Questionnaires and Interviews: Socio-economic and cultural data gathered from residents and local authorities.
  • Monitoring Equipment: Instruments to record noise, temperature, wind direction, and pollutant levels.
  • Seasonal Monitoring: Environmental data collected across seasons (pre-monsoon, monsoon, post-monsoon, winter) to capture variations.

To ensure validity, standardized protocols (e.g., CPCB guidelines, ISO standards) are often followed in the data collection process.

9.7 Summary

A thorough description of the environmental setting is a crucial foundation for any EIA. It informs impact prediction, mitigation strategies, and policy decisions. Selecting relevant environmental factors through multiple approaches ensures a well-rounded assessment. Data collected from reliable sources using standardized methods builds confidence in the EIA process and improves decision-making.

The next step in EIA involves analyzing how a project may affect the described environmental components, which is covered in subsequent units focused on impact prediction and mitigation.

 

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