Environmental assessment

Environmental Assessments are a way of determining the potential impact of any new development on the natural world. Using a variety of techniques and processes, the assessment recommends ways to avoid, minimise or compensate for any negative impacts a development may have, to help planners make informed decisions.

An EIA is used to create an Environmental Statement which is needed for some large developments or one located near sensitive places. The statement predicts possible environmental damage and sets out how it could be reduced. This evidence must be considered by the planning authority when it decides whether the proposed development can go ahead.

Download our Biodiversity and Environmental Impact Assessment: A good practice guide for road schemes (4.7Mb) for more information.

An SEA is similar to an EIA but applies to major plans and programmes, rather than individual development projects. It is undertaken at a high level to identify how to protect the environment during the early stages of planning. Crucially it includes public consultation as part of the process.

SEAs were introduced in 2004 by the European Directive and they apply to a range of programmes prepared by statutory bodies, local authorities and others.

The Westminster Government wants to reform the current assessment processes to make them quicker and easier for developers to use, while retaining protection for nature. The RSPB is part of these discussions and has suggested new ideas and proposals to ensure any new legislation includes stronger protection for wildlife and nature. It is likely the reforms will be part of new Levelling-Up Bill, which is expected to take priority in the coming months.

Our Proposition