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Short note: EIA

Short answer

EIA is a systematic process to assess the environmental consequences of a proposed project before decisions are made. Steps include screening, scoping, baseline study, impact prediction, evaluation, mitigation, public hearing, and monitoring. Benefits include avoiding costly mistakes, protecting resources, improving design, and supporting sustainable development.

Write a short note on EIA (Environmental Impact Assessment).

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.

Benefits: avoids costly mistakes, protects resources and people, improves design, gives public participation, and supports sustainable development.

✓ Answer checked by Claude Opus 5.5 (high effort)

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