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| SERVICES - ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT (EIA) |
ILA performs all aspects of Environmental impact assessment (EIA), as required by the National Environmental Management Act (NEMA). EIA is a key support tool for sustainable development.
At the same time ILA considers Clients' budget requirements throughout to ensure that projects are also economically viable.
The services offered by ILA include the following:
- Due diligence/screening, a desktop assessment containing baseline information which highlights any possible fatal flaws. This is recommended when there is uncertainty regarding feasibility of a potential development site, land use or the level of assessment required. The outcome provides recommendations on the way forward and developable areas, i.e. feasibility of a site, and which environmental application process is to be followed (Basic Assessment or full Environmental Impact Assessment or EIA).
- Basic Assessment
The BA Process investigates both biophysical and social impacts associated with the activities. Mitigation measures are determined in order to limit and prevent detrimental impacts. A Basic Assessment Report is compiled in a standard format provided by the deciding authority and a public participation process is conducted. The BA Process is a condensed process which can be finalised depending on project complexities within between 4 - 8 months.
- Scoping
Scoping is the first stage of a full EIA and determines the nature and extent of the required impact assessment. Key issues for investigation which are likely to be important during the EIA are identified. Scoping entails refining of the project scope and identification of feasible alternatives, public participation and preliminary site investigation. The scoping report forms the basis of the terms of reference for the EIA stage.
- Impact assessment
During this stage identified activities associated with the proposed development are assessed in depth to determine significance and extent of impacts on the various components of the environment. Both adverse and beneficial impacts are assessed. An Environmental Impact Statement is compiled which concludes whether activities can proceed and under which specific conditions.
- Mitigation/ Environmental Management Programme (EMPr)
This stage entails the development of mitigation measures which will ensure that adverse impacts are avoided or minimised and beneficial impacts are enhanced to result in maximum benefits. The EMPr is the tool used to ensure that mitigation actions and monitoring requirements are methodically implemented throughout the construction, operational and in some cases, the decommissioning phases of a development.
- Environmental Monitoring and compliance
During the construction phase of an approved development Authorities require environmental audits which audit whether measures provided in the approved EMPr are being implemented. Auditing is conducted by an Environmental Control Officer (ECO) and entails monitoring of construction activity, auditing as well as provisions for closure, as required in the Record of Decision and EMPr.
ILA has a highly reputable team of scientific specialists which we involve as and when required during an EIA Process. |
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