Environmental Impact Assessment

Applications for many types of development projects are required by law to be accompanied by a systematic appraisal of likely effects on the environment.

Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) is a process that involves the preparation of an Environmental impact Statement (EIS), by the applicant, combining the expertise of a range of specialists into a comprehensive assessment.

We have pioneered best practice techniques in this sector so through the EIA process, we guide clients and designers to avoid or reduce impacts, while also providing  evidence-based assurance about the project to the public and consenting agencies.  We continue to refine and develop our approach in response to emerging issues and regulations, such as the 2014 amendment of the EIA Directive.

We are currently working on review of the EPA’s guidance on EIA through our holding company CAAS Ltd (started in September 2014).

We provide full or partial advice and support for all aspects of EIA

• Strategic Guidance on Impact Avoidance – through early involvement in site selection and project conception
• Screening of projects to ascertain whether EIA is required or not
• Scoping to determine the range of issues to be assessed in an EIS, usually involving consultation with stakeholders including statutory agencies.
• Preparation of full EISs – including commissioning, management and editing of all specialist inputs
• Supervision of EISs and co-ordination with design and planning teams
• Specialist Reports on individual EIS topics, such as Human Beings, Flora & Fauna, Material Assets, Landscape and Interaction of Effects