When should EIA be applied?

The EIA process should be applied:

– To all proposals that are likely to cause potentially significant adverse impacts to the environment.

– To all proposals that are likely to add to actual or potential foreseeable cumulative

impacts on the environment.

– As a primary instrument to ensure that the potential impacts of a proposal are avoided, minimized and/or rehabilitated.

– To ensure that the scope of review is consistent with the nature of the proposal and commensurate with the likely causes and impacts.

When should EIA Process be undertaken?

a) Throughout the project cycle, beginning as early as possible in the concept design phase.

b) With clear reference to the requirements for project authorization and follow up, including impact avoidable, minimization and/or rehabilitation.

c) Consistent with the application of ‘best practicable’ knowledge and (mitigation) technologies.

d) In accordance with established procedures and project specific terms of reference, including agreed timelines.

e) To provide meaningful public consultation with communities, groups and parties directly affected by, or with interest in, the project and/ or its environmental and social impacts.

What should EIA address?

a) All related relevant factors, including environmental, social and health risks and impacts.

b) Cumulative and long term, large scale effects.

c) Design, location and technological alternatives of the proposal being addressed.

d)Sustainability considerations including materials use, by-product generation and there social and environmental implications.

e) The impacts (positive and negative) of the proposal not going ahead