Environmental Impact Assessment Explained

Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) is the measurement of the anticipated effects of a proposed project or development on the environment.

The purpose of the EIA process is to ensure that:

  • All projects that are likely to have a significant impact on the environment are assessed. Environmental Impact Assessment Explained
  • People are fully aware of the likely effects of the project.

A full list of projects and threshold limits are set out in the Planning and Development Regulations. 

  • There are certain areas in which it is compulsory for an EIA, e.g. large scale developments in agriculture, chemical industry, infrastructure, motorways and urban developments.
  • The Environmental Impact Assessment must be submitted with a planning application for such a development. 

A local authority may decide that a Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) must be submitted even if the development is below the threshold for a mandatory EIA, where they consider that the development may still have a significant impact on the environment. 

  • The EIS must contain an analysis of the likely effects, both good and bad of the development.
  • The EIS will address a range of areas of interest including the likely impacts on people, fauna, soil, water, landscape, flora and cultural heritage.
  • The statement must include a non technical summary setting out how the developer plans to deal with any negative effects. 

If you would like more information about Environmental Impact Assessments or Environmental Impact Statements please contact us.

We will be pleased to discuss your requirements.

T:  +353 (0) 61 633644

E:  info@ecos.ie

W: www.ecos.ie