How can you use EIA to identify the most effective areas for green infrastructure?

1 How EIA works

Environmental Impact Assessments (EIA) typically involve several steps, such as screening, scoping, baseline study, impact analysis, mitigation and enhancement, reporting, review, decision-making and monitoring. Each step has its own methods and tools which vary depending on the context and objectives of the assessment. Some of the common methods and tools used in EIA are Geographic Information Systems (GIS), Multi-Criteria Analysis (MCA), Cost-Benefit Analysis (CBA) and Life Cycle Assessment (LCA). GIS can help visualize, analyze and integrate spatial data related to the environment and society. MCA can compare and rank different alternatives based on multiple criteria such as environmental, social, economic and technical aspects. CBA can estimate and compare the monetary costs and benefits of different alternatives. LCA can measure and compare the environmental impacts of different alternatives throughout their life cycle. It can also include social and economic impacts such as human health, employment and resource efficiency.

2 How EIA can help identify the most effective areas for green infrastructure

Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) can help identify the most effective areas for green infrastructure by assessing the current and future environmental and social conditions of an urban area. This includes analyzing climate, water, soil, air, noise, landscape, biodiversity, health, well-being, culture and equity. It also involves identifying the opportunities and constraints for green infrastructure development, such as regulations, policies and public support. Furthermore, EIA can evaluate the potential impacts of different green infrastructure scenarios on the environment and society. This includes assessing changes in flood risk, air quality, biodiversity, health, well-being, culture and equity. Additionally, it can propose and prioritize optimal locations, types and designs of green infrastructure that maximize benefits and minimize costs for the environment and society. Finally, it can monitor and evaluate the performance of implemented green infrastructure to adjust plans and actions accordingly.

3 How EIA can help engage stakeholders in green infrastructure planning

Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) is a valuable tool for urban planners looking to identify the most effective areas for green infrastructure and engage stakeholders in the planning process. By providing a transparent and participatory process that involves the public, the authorities, the experts, and the developers in the assessment and decision-making stages, EIA can help create a sense of ownership and responsibility for green infrastructure. Additionally, EIA can communicate results and recommendations of the assessment in a clear and accessible way using maps, charts, graphs, tables, and narratives. It is important to solicit and incorporate feedback and suggestions of stakeholders while addressing their concerns and expectations. Through EIA, urban planners can enhance environmental, social, and economic sustainability of their cities, as well as create more livable and resilient urban spaces.

4 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?