Description: Environmental impact assessment (EIA) is a systematic process aimed at identifying, predicting, and evaluating the potential effects of a project or activity on the environment before it is carried out. This process involves gathering information about the natural and human environment, as well as considering alternatives to the proposed project. EIA seeks to ensure that development decisions are sustainable and that negative impacts on the environment are minimized. Additionally, it promotes public participation, allowing affected communities to express their concerns and contribute to the decision-making process. EIA is based on scientific and technical principles, and its implementation may include field studies, data analysis, and the preparation of reports summarizing findings and recommendations. This process is essential for environmental planning and management, as it helps decision-makers better understand the environmental implications of their actions and adopt appropriate measures to mitigate adverse impacts.
History: Environmental impact assessment began to take shape in the 1960s, particularly in the United States, with the enactment of the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) in 1969. This law required federal projects to assess their environmental impacts before approval. Following this, other countries began to adopt similar legislation, and EIA became an international standard in project planning. In 1992, the United Nations Conference on Environment and Development in Rio de Janeiro promoted EIA as a key tool for sustainable development, leading to its inclusion in environmental policies worldwide.
Uses: Environmental impact assessment is used in various contexts, including infrastructure planning, urban development projects, industrial activities, and natural resource management. It is commonly required for projects that may have a significant impact on the environment, such as the construction of dams, roads, airports, and mining projects. Additionally, EIA is applied in the evaluation of policies and programs, helping to identify and mitigate environmental impacts at early stages.
Examples: An example of environmental impact assessment is the study conducted for the construction of a new airport, where the effects on local wildlife, air quality, and noise are analyzed. Another case is the EIA carried out for a mining project, which assesses the impact on groundwater and local biodiversity. In both cases, the resulting reports help decision-makers implement appropriate mitigation measures.
