Miljökonsekvensanalys

Miljökonsekvensanalys, often abbreviated as MKB, is a systematic process used to identify, describe, and evaluate the potential environmental impacts of proposed projects or activities. The primary goal of an MKB is to provide decision-makers with comprehensive information to help them determine whether a project should be approved and, if so, under what conditions. This analysis considers direct, indirect, cumulative, short-term, and long-term effects on various environmental components, including air, water, soil, biodiversity, landscape, and human health. It also examines socio-economic and cultural impacts.

The MKB process typically involves several stages. Initially, a screening phase determines if an MKB is required for a specific project based on its potential for significant environmental effects. If an MKB is deemed necessary, a scoping phase follows to define the key issues and impacts to be studied. Then, a detailed analysis is conducted, gathering data and predicting the environmental consequences. Mitigation measures are proposed to avoid, reduce, or compensate for adverse impacts. Finally, the results are documented in an MKB report, which is made public and subject to consultation with authorities and the public before a final decision is made. MKB is a crucial tool for promoting sustainable development and ensuring that environmental considerations are integrated into planning and decision-making processes.