Ympäristöarvioinneille

Ympäristöarvioinneille, often translated as Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) in English, is a process used to predict and evaluate the environmental consequences of proposed projects, plans, or policies before decisions are made about their implementation. The primary goal of EIA is to ensure that environmental considerations are integrated into the decision-making process, thereby promoting sustainable development.

The process typically begins with an initial screening to determine if an EIA is required for a particular project. If an EIA is deemed necessary, the next step is scoping, where the key environmental issues and alternatives to be studied are identified. This is often done in consultation with relevant authorities and stakeholders. Following scoping, an environmental impact statement (EIS) is prepared, which details the potential environmental effects, mitigation measures to reduce negative impacts, and any unavoidable residual effects. This statement is then made available for public review and comment. Finally, a decision is made on the project, taking into account the EIA findings, public feedback, and other relevant factors. EIA aims to prevent, minimize, or offset adverse environmental effects and enhance positive ones. It is a crucial tool for proactive environmental management and for ensuring that development projects are environmentally sound and sustainable.