miljøvurdering

Miljøvurdering, often translated as Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA), is a systematic process used to identify, predict, and evaluate the potential environmental consequences of a proposed project or development. This process is typically undertaken before a decision is made to proceed with the project. The primary goal of miljøvurdering is to ensure that potential environmental impacts are considered and mitigated during the planning and decision-making stages.

The process generally involves several key steps. It begins with a screening phase to determine if a full miljøvurdering is necessary. If it is, a scoping phase follows to define the key issues and impacts to be studied. Then, an assessment is conducted to gather baseline environmental data and predict the potential effects of the project on various environmental components such as air, water, soil, biodiversity, and human health. Mitigation measures are then proposed to avoid, reduce, or compensate for these adverse impacts. Finally, the results of the miljøvurdering are documented in a report, which is made available for public consultation and used by decision-makers.

Miljøvurdering aims to promote sustainable development by integrating environmental considerations into economic and social planning. It helps to avoid costly environmental damage, improve project design, and foster public participation and transparency in development decisions. International conventions and national legislation often mandate miljøvurdering for a wide range of projects, including infrastructure development, industrial activities, and land-use changes. The effectiveness of miljøvurdering relies on accurate data, thorough analysis, and genuine consideration of its findings in the final decision.