Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA): A Pillar For Sustainable Development
- IJLLR Journal
- Jan 13, 2025
- 1 min read
Meenu. M.B, Guest lecturer, Government Law College, Kozhikode
ABSTRACT
Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) serves as a critical mechanism to integrate environmental considerations into developmental planning. By evaluating potential ecological, social, and economic impacts of projects, EIA ensures informed decision-making that aligns with sustainability. Introduced globally in the 1970s, EIA has become an essential tool for balancing development with environmental protection.
In India, the EIA process began in 1978-79, focusing on river valley projects. The Environmental (Protection) Act, 1986, significantly expanded its scope, making EIA mandatory for 29 categories of developmental activities exceeding ₹50 crores. Subsequent notifications, including the landmark 1994 and 2006 amendments, streamlined procedures, introduced public participation, and strengthened compliance mechanisms. Projects are categorized into Category A (evaluated at the central level) and Category B (handled by state authorities), ensuring proportional scrutiny based on environmental impact.
The EIA process involves several stages: screening, scoping, baseline data collection, impact assessment, mitigation measures, public consultation, and decision-making. Screening identifies projects requiring EIA, while scoping defines key environmental issues. Baseline data collection establishes existing conditions, and impact assessment evaluates potential changes. Mitigation measures address adverse impacts, and public consultation incorporates community concerns. Decisions are made by expert committees, followed by post-clearance monitoring to ensure compliance.
EIA extends to specialized areas like coastal zone management and carrying capacity studies. Coastal Zone Management Plans (CZMPs) regulate coastal activities, safeguarding sensitive ecosystems. Carrying capacity studies evaluate a region’s ability to support development without resource depletion or ecological harm, guiding sustainable planning.
