How can you ensure that an environmental impact assessment is respectful of local traditions?

To my mind comes immediatly the hospitality sector: I have been active in this sector for a large number of years, as a paramount issue, it is crucial to focus on the LOCALS, the gardener, locally grown vegetables, herbs, flowers, the housekeeper, the waiter, the receptionist, the driver the musician, the artist, the novelist, who all make the venue outstanding, because they create the local connection to the place, the uniform designer, the Chef, or Sous Chef who accentuates typical kind local dishes, that make your regular F&B venues outstanding! Here your USP starts, because YOU CARE about home grown VEGGIES and MOST essentially "home grown staff & leaders" with respect,& tuition, growing together on a path to success & hapiness!

Is important to always take into account the local perspective. Identify key stakeholders and integrate them into the design process. Learn and share ideas, perspectives, expectations, concerns, and aspirations regarding the project and its potential impacts. Is important to create a project where everyone involved is happy and identify, but most of all, where all the ideas are taken into consideration.

When developing ESIA, social cosideration is very crucial for a successful project or activity. This is done during the gathering of different opinions from diverse social groups in the stage of stakeholders engagement.

The agency carrying out the EIA should be mindful of the following to make sure local traditions are not bypassed, missed, or disrespected. (Based on my field work knowledge)? 1. Research about the communities, their practices, festivals, worshipping places or structures around the location of project boundary. Sometimes their traditions are linked with particular seasons, agriculture harvests or produce, weather change. It could be anything given the diversity of people live in and around rural areas or semi-urban or agriculture landscapes where development projects are generally located. Be mindful of their sensitivities in advance.

Understanding how cultural, traditional, and religious values influence corporate social responsibility (CSR) practices is crucial. In Saudi Arabia, for example, CSR initiatives like preserving natural resources align with religious teachings and national values. Thus, when companies match CSR activities with employees' values, it may help boost their organizational identification, commitment, and organizational pride.

Is crucial to understand local practices but more than understanding, for me is key to involve local people and stakeholders who can bring to the table more perspectives and knowledge. The Principle of free, prior, and informed consent is ensuring respect for local traditions and in my perspective the best way to do that is to involve the community. Furthermore, is relevant to know the specific rights and interests recognized by international law and standards for the people in the community.

2. Engage (through their representatives) to cross-check your research and listen from them about their traditions, cultural practices, religious, cultural or heritage sites, socio-ecological practices, values etc. Ensure their continued participation to make sure their opinions and perspectives are integrated in the report throughout the EIA process (especially if you come across any traditions or site sensitivity) Do not bypass.? 3. Inform them why the EIA is being conducted, its purpose ( including why the government made it mandatory for development projects), about NGT and its successful verdicts over the years for non-compliance (in case of India). It infuses confidence in them about the process and works as the ice-breaker.

4. Develop mitigation measures in consultation with the local people around the project area and not on the basis of available literature. Integrate, take comments and maintain transparency. Read about the FPIC (Free, Prior and Informed Consent) process. It would be very helpful in dealing with such issues.

Assessing the impact of development projects or changes in a local environment on traditional practices and cultures is crucial for maintaining a respectful and sustainable relationship with the community. Preservation of Cultural Heritage: It ensures that the rich cultural heritage and traditions of the local community are preserved and respected. Community Engagement: It fosters meaningful engagement with community members, promoting transparency and collaboration. Sustainable Development: By understanding and mitigating potential negative impacts, it supports sustainable development that aligns. Social Cohesion: It contributes to maintaining social cohesion within the community by acknowledging and valuing local traditions.