Guidelines for Ecological Impact Assessment of UK.ppt

Guidelines for Ecological Impact Assessment in the United KingdomDr. Edward Bodsworth MIEEM Background Definition of Ecological Impact Assessment Ecological Impact Assessment (EcIA) is defined as ‘the process of identifying, quantifying and evaluating the potential impacts of defined actions on ecosystems or their components.’ Background What triggers an EcIA in the UK? EcIA is a key component of Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) as required by the EIA Regulations in the UK. EIA is required when they meet certain criteria listed in Schedules 1 and 2 of the EIA Regulations. Local Planning Authorities must take ecology into account when deciding any planning application, no matter how small Background Even if proposed developments do not meet the criteria for EIA, an EIA may be required if the development is proposed in a ‘sensitive area’. Sites of Special Scientific Interest (legally protected wildlife sites) National Parks Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty World Heritage Sites Scheduled Ancient Monuments EIA Framework Proponent employs independent experts to undertake the different elements of the EIA (ecology, hydrology, air, landscape etc.) and to draw it together for submission as an Environmental Statement. Local Planning Authority receives the submission of an Environmental Statement for their consideration under the EIA Regulations, Local and National Planning Policy and other relevant legislation (e.g. protected species legislation). Local Planning Authority can request further information if it deems that there is insufficient information within the initial submission. Public consultation is undertaken and support/comments/objections considered with reference to policy/legislation If the proposal is deemed to be in accordance with policy and legislation, the scheme will receive consent (usually with conditions), if it is not, the scheme will be refused. The EcIA Process The purpose of EcIA is to provide decision-makers with clear and co