Umweltverträglichkeitsfolgen

Umweltverträglichkeit is a German term that translates to "environmental compatibility" or "environmental sustainability." It refers to the assessment and consideration of the potential environmental impacts of a project, plan, or policy before its implementation. This concept is central to environmental protection efforts, aiming to minimize or avoid negative consequences on ecosystems, natural resources, and human health.

The process of assessing environmental compatibility often involves an Umweltverträglichkeitsprüfung (UVP), which is the German equivalent of an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA). The UVP is a systematic procedure that identifies, predicts, evaluates, and mitigates the environmental effects of proposed actions. This typically includes analyzing aspects like air and water quality, biodiversity, soil, noise pollution, landscape, and cultural heritage. The findings of the UVP are used by decision-makers to inform their choices and to integrate environmental considerations into the planning and approval stages.

The principle of Umweltverträglichkeit underscores the importance of sustainable development, seeking to balance economic and social needs with the imperative to protect the environment for present and future generations. It is a proactive approach to environmental management, encouraging stakeholders to anticipate and address potential environmental challenges early in the development process. The application of Umweltverträglichkeit extends across various sectors, including infrastructure projects, industrial activities, land-use planning, and legislative proposals.