EIA; environmental problems in Nepal

EIA

Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) is a systematic study to identify, predict, evaluate and mitigate the positive and negative effects of a proposed project on the physical, biological, social and cultural environment before decisions are taken. In Nepal, it is required by the Environment Protection Act, 2019 and Environment Protection Rules, 2020: IEE for smaller projects and full EIA for larger ones (for example hydropower above 50 MW, roads in sensitive areas).

Steps

1. Screening: decide whether IEE or EIA is needed.
2. Scoping: identify key issues and prepare the terms of reference.
3. Baseline study of existing environment.
4. Impact identification and prediction (checklist, matrix, network, overlay).
5. Evaluation of significance and comparison of alternatives.
6. Mitigation measures and Environmental Management Plan.
7. Report preparation, public hearing and review.
8. Approval, monitoring and auditing.

Environmental problems in Nepal

• Deforestation and loss of biodiversity.
• Soil erosion, landslides and flood in the hills and Terai.
• Air pollution in Kathmandu valley (vehicles, brick kilns, dust).
• Water pollution of rivers (Bagmati) from sewage and industry.
• Solid waste and poor disposal.
• Glacier retreat and climate change effects.
• Unplanned urbanisation and loss of farmland.
• Noise pollution and haphazard resource extraction (sand, boulders).

Types of impacts

Improvement measures

Strict EIA and monitoring, afforestation, slope stabilisation, treatment plants, clean transport and emission standards, waste management, community forestry, public awareness and law enforcement.