What is an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA)?

Answer: EIA is a legislative procedure that systematically examines the possible environmental
consequences of implementing projects, programs and policies. It can also provide information to
decision makers and the public about the environmental implications of proposed investment
actions before the investment decisions are made.

What are Environmental standards and why are they important in the context of EIA?

Answer: Environmental standards are benchmarks against which the environmental changes
(positive or negative) may be measured. The EIA process is more objective when assessment of
the significance of changes in environmental parameters is measured against desired
environmental quality standards.

What is a Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA)?

Answer: SEA is an approach that involves reviewing of policies, plans and programs for the
purpose of ensuring that the environmental effects of an initiative are considered and the final
initiative contains sufficient attention to environmental sustainability.

Identify at least 3 objectives of public participation and stakeholder involvement in environmental

management? Answer: The objectives of public involvement and participation in environmental
management include:

Informing stakeholders;

Presentation of views, concerns and values;

Maximizing benefits;

Influencing project design;

Obtaining local knowledge;

Increasing public confidence;

Better transparency and accountability in decision-making; and

Reducing conflict.
Explain the importance of information and knowledge for environmental management.

Answer: Citizens need to be empowered with environmental information and knowledge before
they can be expected to voice opinions, make informed choices, and develop preferences and
values.