# abstract_info

abstract_title:
Does the EIA function properly for geothermal projects?

abstract:
There are some fundamental differences between energy projects in Iceland which have consequences for the efficiency and function of the EIA process.  Most of the hydropower projects are well defined projects, i.e. the design, size and magnitude of the project is known when assessing the impact of the project.  The characteristics of geothermal utilization can be very different.  The utilization of geothermal energy is dynamic in nature, were the information is being gathered and processed continuously during the time of utilization.  
The paper is discussing whether the EIA Act and process in Iceland does function for geothermal projects and if it should be more flexible for such dynamic projects. The paper reviews three geothermal projects currently in process, describing the main benefits and problems relating to the EIA process as well as the process of applying for consents and permits under various acts.  The experience of these projects are different.  The paper discusses possible solutions to the problems accounted for example the new SEA Act, using tools of planning, allowing more flexibility in the EIA, implementing more consultation among interest parties and agencies, and using area approach instead of structural approach.

a2_org:
Hitaveita Sudurnesja (Sudurnes Regional Heating Corporaton)


abstract_title:
Review of the Status of the Marrakech Declaration and Action Plan

abstract:
Presentation of the results of the IAIA'05 sessions and status of the Marrakech Declaration and Action Plan for capacity development followed by an extensive discussion period to complete and reach agreement on the Action Plan's revised and updated outputs, ranking,lead and collaborators by activities, their summary content and time frame.


abstract_title:
Development of Forest Resource Management and National Forest Protection Program (NFPP) and its Influences

abstract:
China’s forest sector began with the devolution of forest tenures in rural areas, but led to reform of state-owned forest enterprises. From the early 1990s to 1998, while China increasingly embraced the market economy, the nation’s natural forests continued to be depleted despite repeated emphasis on sustainable development. Then, in the wake of the 1998 floods in the Yangtze River basin, there was a shift in focus from timber production to environmental protection, with policy redirected toward the rehabilitation of damaged forest ecosystems, afforestation in desertified and degraded areas, and a ban on logging in natural forests. We provide an overview of the central themes of reform in China’s forestry sector, identify the major factors that influenced policy formulation, and show that the outcomes of China’s forest policy changes in the aggregate represent a paradigm shift. This paper examines the major changes in China’s forest policy and National Forest Protection Program (NFPP). The policies have shaped institutional restructuring in forestry are highlighted, and the waxing and waning of the major forestry programmes are examined. It concludes with some observations about how the changes will affect the future of the Chinese forest sector.


abstract_title:
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT OF CORTNA D’AMPEZZO PROJECT: MOBILITY ALTERNATIVES TO RESOLVE URBAN PROBLEMS

abstract:
This project concern with critical analysis of the Environmental Impact Assessment Study of ANAS project, named “variante all'abitato di Cortina, lotto I e completamento. Progetto preliminare e studio di impatto ambientale”. The purpose of this task was:
-	the evaluation of the project and of mobility solutions for the urban centre of Cortina d’Ampezzo.
-	 to investigate city congestion, pollution and environmental problems. 
We assessed the methodological lacks of the Impact Assessment Study and of the dates as well as analysis models. Moreover we assessed the urban and large scale planning lakes of the project and we implemented a participatory policy (meeting and conferences, articles on local and national newspapers, virtual simulation of the project).
The evaluation elements were: atmosphere, soil, underground soil, water and groundwater, landscape, ecosystems, flora and fauna, noise, magnetic radiations.
TERRA Ltd. Co. worked together with Ceruti legal office and Venice University of Architecture (with prof. Virginio Bettini). The working team has elaborated an alternative project proposal according to an integrate evaluation methodology which consider together environment, mobility, economy and social-cultural aspects.


abstract_title:
Modern biotechnologies and policy issues for designing biodiversity assessment-inclusive impact assessment models for developing countries: The case of Guyana

job:
Senior Lecturer & former Director of Environmental Studies

add_contd:
Department of Biology, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Box 10-1110 GPO

abstract:
In the emerging global bioeconomy paradigm, biotechnology provides an important means by which biological diversity can be sustainably used. Developing countries like Guyana can ill-afford the non-leveraging of biotechnology as a developmental tool for economic enhancement, improved health, poverty alleviation and food security, among others. However, the techniques employed and/or the products derived therefrom may potentially pose risks to biological diversity.. Admittedly, the risks posed by biotechnology to biodiversity are best analysed on a case-by-case basis. However, the precautionary approach has been widely accepted as a plausible means for averting potentially unknown risks when there is lack of scientific certainty. Guyana, is predominantly an agrarian economy with sugar and rice as the bedrock. A policy framework for leveraging safe biotechnologies as a developmental strategy,  through the integration of basic elements of biotechnology impact and risk with biodiversity assessment in EIA is suggested. As a small economy, with a paucity of required skills in biosafety and environmental management, a strategic approach within the scope of re-engineering existing impact assessments and risk analysis for genetically modified organisms and other products of biotechnology, may be more meaningful vis-à-vis the nations’ biotechnology assimilation and exploitation capacity.


abstract_title:
Health Impact Assessment in the international oil and gas sector

abstract:
Local communities that host very large industrial projects that must inevitably receive major environmental, social, and health impacts, unless these are very skilfully managed. Some of the more enlightened multinational oil and gas producers now recognise that their future business success depends on integrated impact assessments and managed impacts. A similar view is taken by some of the lending banks and is enshrined in the Equator Principles and the safeguard standards and policies of the International Finance Corporation.

Multinational corporations may not undertake environmental, social and health impact assessment in-house, as they may not have the necessary skills. Instead, they use preferred environmental contractors. The contractors usually do not have the competence to undertake health impact assessment and must subcontract. The subcontractors may be nationals of the host country.

Challenges to achieving a good integrated impact assessment include: writing good Terms of Reference, using competent contractors and subcontractors, communicating with stakeholders, understanding stakeholder concerns, good communication between the environmental, social, and health teams, and acceptance of a similar principled approach by all the project owners. Some of these challenges will be illustrated based on recent field experience.


abstract_title:
WITHDRAWN   Use of a Rapid Impact Assessment Matrix for assessing differential impacts upon stakeholder groups – Case study of the EIA of Tsetse Eradication in the Okavango Delta, Botswana

abstract:
WITHDRAWN   The RIAM, Rapid Impact Assessment Matrix, is a tool for identifying and quantifying different types of impacts according to criteria of  Importance, Magnitude of change or impact, Permanence, Reversibility and Cumulative impact.  Its use can be applied to assessing and comparing the impacts on different stakeholder groups – government (national and local), sectoral interests (livestock and tourism industries), local communities, environmental NGOs etc. The paper describes the application of a RIAM in the case of the EIA conducted for the scheme to eradicate Tsetse fly in the Okavango Delta, Botswana.

suggested_topic:
Success Stories in the Application of EIA to Ag, Forestry & Fisheries


abstract_title:
Towards a framework for ex post SEA:  a theoretical exploration

abstract:
Most SEA practice and research has focused on the pre-decision stages, whereas post-decision stages (usually monitoring, evaluation, and management) have been given far less attention. These stages, also referred to as SEA follow-up or ex post SEA, are an integral part of any effective and learning-oriented SEA. This paper takes the first step towards a framework to guide further efforts, by analysing the requirements for ex post SEA according to the European SEA Directive, reviewing existing experiences and literature on how to perform ex post SEA, and exploring lessons from the adjacent fields of EIA follow up and policy/programme evalutation. The paper argues that the SEA Directive is seriously constrained and that a more ambitious interpretation of ex post SEA is necessary to enable a strategic decision making and learning cycle. Learning from the policy/programme evaluation literature could strengthen ex post SEA by giving it analytical rigour in relation to establishing causality and providing insights into the use and acceptance of ex post SEA among decision makers and stakeholders. Further explorations into policy evaluation toolkits and practical applications are needed to enhance the potential of ex post SEA in supporting strategic decision making.


abstract_title:
Beyond Hurdle Jumping: Managing the Impact Assessment Process for Environmental Performance

organization:
Ministry of Transport, Public Works & Water Management

abstract:
The IA toolbox contains an array of instruments: from sustainability appraisal and SEA at the strategic end of decisionmaking to ‘traditional’ projectbased EIA and operational level environmental management systems (EMS). Development of new instruments has been accompanied by regulation to guide their application. For practitioners, however, it is not obvious which IA instrument should be applied in a particular situation or when and how these might interrelate with other environmental management tools. Mostly this depends on ad hoc choices and too often these instruments are treated just as hurdles to jump. How might IA instruments be applied in a sensible way to make better decisions and improve environmental performance (the underlying objective of all these instruments) as well as to enable learning? We contemplate a framework in which more explicit design of IA occurs throughout the planning process to optimise environmental management outcomes. This requires consideration of both content and process dimensions. The framework includes choice of instruments and IA techniques, management of risks, division of roles and responsibilities for IA undertakings, engagement of stakeholders and information as well as learning and capacity building. Managing the IA process not only guides practice, but is essential for maximising environmental management performance.

add_info:
Key words: environmental performance, outcomes, risk management, process management, environmental management, SEA, EIA, EMS

a2_org:
Murdoch University, School of Environmental Science


abstract_title:
Very early contracting in EIA: Dutch experiences with parallel procedures for procurement and EIA

abstract:
The role of market parties in Dutch road development is usually limited to consultancy in plan preparation (EIA studies, engineering) and subsequently to construction and maintenance. Usually different market parties (consultants, contractors) are involved in these various stages. 
Recently, Dutch Government strives for earlier involvement of market parties (contractors) in infrastructure planning. Reasons are: innovation; integrated planning including construction and maintenance; better price/quality ratio by competition, etc.
This paper discusses a new framework in which the procedures for EIA and procurement/contracting are combined very early. The essential difference with the ‘traditional’ approach is that market parties that will construct the road are involved before the consent decision. The idea is that they prepare alternatives in competition, which are integrated in the EIA report! (‘seems a small step, but means giant leap’). The new EU procurement procedure of ‘competitive dialogue’ is combined with the EIA procedure, maintaining their specific nature (confidentiality vs. openness to public). In a stepwise process the project’s scope and alternatives are elaborated. Finally, the winning party’s bid and the consent decision are combined in a contract (eg. DBFM). The paper discusses: legal challenges; conditions; roles of government, market,other stakeholders; pros and cons.

add_info:
The abstract best fits within a stream relating to either (road/transport) infraplanning or a session on involvement of market parties. The only session stream a bit related seems to be: Land use planning, transporation and coaatal zone management (Lars Emmelin)
Key words: EIA, procurement procedures, early contractor involvement, infrastructure planning, scoping, risk management, process innovation, competitive dialogue, DBFM contracting.

a2_org:
Ministry of Transport, Public Works & Water Management


abstract_title:
Universal Design and Disability: Fundamental Physical and Social Impact Assessment

abstract:
“Disability is the result of the interaction between people with different levels of functioning and an environment that does not take these differences into account.  In other words, people with physical, sensory or mental limitations are often disabled not because of a diagnosable condition, but because they are denied access to education, labor markets, and public services. This exclusion leads to poverty and, in a vicious circle, poverty leads to more disability by increasing people’s vulnerability to malnutrition, disease, and unsafe living and working conditions.” 
(Latin America & Caribbean Region, World Bank, December 2, 2004)

Many persons presently characterized as “disabled” have the potential to participate socially, politically and economically; but they are physically excluded.  However, a significant number of people with disabilities can become a productive and contributing member of society if appropriate impact assessment and mitigation are utilized.  The cycle of impairment, disability, and poverty is made up of both physical and social barriers for disabled persons.  Universal design techniques can remove many physical infrastructure impairments and allow people otherwise considered disabled into society, reducing social costs from unnecessary pensions or welfare and making them contributors to the economic GDP of the country.

a2_job:
Environmental Policy and Program Manager


abstract_title:
WITHDRAWN  Application of Impact Assessment approaches for Ecosystem Management – Experience of the Mekong Wetlands Biodiversity Programme

abstract:
WITHDRAWN    The Mekong Wetlands Biodiversity Programme is a regional programme working in the four countries of the Lower Mekong Basin – Cambodia, Lao PDR, Thailand and Vietnam. It was designed based upon the principles of ecosystem management, and is aimed at developing capacity in these four countries for the conservation and sustainable use of the wetland biodiversity resources. In implementing ecosystem management, various uses are made of impact assessment approaches. This paper describes some of these approaches which range from training in EIA processes using local environmental and wetland issues as study topics, development of a fire and water management strategy for a national park in the Mekong Delta, environmental flow studies both in mainstream Mekong and tributaries, and strategic environmental assessment of the impacts of sectoral policies on wetlands.


abstract_title:
DUPLICATE of 308  THE CASE OF HYDROPOWER PROJECTS – PROPOSED BUJAGALI DAM IN UGANDA

organization:
National Environment Management Authority (NEMA)

abstract:
DUPLICATE of 308  Power (energy, governance) plays a big role in influencing socio-economic development worldwide. Hydro-power development in the 20th century became a potent global symbol of development.  Dams account for 19% of electricity generated, 14% food production, and constitute the highest expenditure item in aid-budgets worldwide. The World Commission on Dams (WDC) recently issued a report criticising dams for exacerbating ecological havoc, and failing to deliver promised prosperity. This implies a dramatic fall from grace of large dam projects.  

Little has been done to scrutinise dams to ascertain whether the benefits outweigh the costs; and no meaningful community participation has taken place.  Projects including the China's Three Gorges dam, dams on India's Narmada river, and Bujagali dam in Uganda, are ''clearly in breach'' of the WCD guidelines. The Bujagali project was approved by Parliament in 1999.  The  project objectives include: alleviate poverty; expand electricity grid and ensure low-cost electricity. To-date, the project has not been implemented due to unresolved issues (e.g., displaced families; benefits package; tourism; dam safety; river/lake hydrology; cumulative impacts; project alternatives) relating to environmental impact assessment for the project. Despite this scenario, the current Government desires to implement the project

add_info:
Key Words:	Power (energy, governance), poverty, environmental impact assessment, sustainable development.


abstract_title:
Capacity building for biodiversity inclusive impact assessment: The findings of the needs assessment survey in India

abstract:
The Asia component of the IAIA-CBBIA project aims to build capacity in the region for promoting good practices to conduct biodiversity inclusive EIA through initiatives of knowledge transfer and development of guidance tools. The specific guidance tools to be generated under the project are the Practitioner’s and Reviewers’ Guide to facilitate environmental decision-making based on biodiversity considerations linked to development proposals in key sectors.
	The Needs Assessment Survey of the relevant departments was conducted in five south Asian countries to (i) review how biodiversity is taken into account in impact assessment and decision-making, (ii) assess existing capacity of relevant departments for conducting biodiversity inclusive EIAs and their reviews and (iv) build consensus for identification of appropriate guidance tools.
	 The results of the survey in India indicate that EIA is gradually maturing to positively influence biodiversity conservation. While the professional skills of the EIA community are improving both by experience and training in EIA, most respondents highlighted the importance of SEA as a thematic area for developing guidance tools under the CBBIA-Asia project. The responses also reflected the critical need to incorporate ecosystem approach and economic considerations in impact assessment for more credible decision making.


abstract_title:
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESMENT OF 64 MW OLKARIA GEOTHERMAL POWER PROJECT - KENYA

organization:
Kenya Electricity Generatig Company, Olkaria Geothermal Project

abstract:
Kenya Electricity Generating Company (KenGen) has developed a 64 MWe power station to extract geothermal energy available in the North East Olkaria geothermal area. The EIA was conducted following World Bank guidelines for the preparations of EIAs. It provides information on; local setting, review of regulatory and legal requirements, description of the existing environment under the categories of flora, soils, fauna plus climate and meteorology among others.
	
An important factor in the environmental studies has been the existence of Hells Gate National Park.  The Park encloses this power station.  This imposes constraints on the management of the park and the power station. Another important factor in the environmental studies is the issue of Lake Naivasha, located five kilometers from the station.  The potential for adverse effects due to air emissions on the neighbouring flower farms located adjacent to the station and the impact that the power station workforce will have on the community infrastructure in Naivasha area was considered in the study.  

The study concluded that the Company could satisfactorily manage all these environmental concerns.

a2_org:
Kenya Electricity Generatig Company, Olkaria Geothermal Project


abstract_title:
Wind Energy and the Natural Heritage in Scotland

abstract:
There has been an enormous push for the development of renewable energy in Scotland with the help of government incentives. These developments are located in areas which are sensitive to impacts on landscape and biodiversity. Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH), a statutory wildlife and countryside agency, has sought to advise decision-makers on how to accommodate this development whilst avoiding damage to the natural heritage.

SNH has sought to influence the process at strategic and local levels, with varying degrees of success. The paper will explain how SNH has issued Strategic Locational Guidance, undertaken landscape capacity studies, and input to development plans and EIAs in order to guide such development.

This programme has been resource intensive for SNH. It has succeeded in discouraging development in more sensitive areas, and in reducing impacts of major projects, although some controversial projects have proceeded. 

The degree of success that this programme has actually had in influencing wind energy projects in reality will be illustrated using information gathered over the whole of Scotland, as well as regional and local case studies.


abstract_title:
Mixed Use Outline Planning Applications – What Constitutes Good Practice in the UK?

organization:
Institute of Environmental Management & Assessment

abstract:
Social demand for housing and house price rises have led to an increased level of house building within the UK. This coupled with an increased understanding of the need for housing developments to be sustainable communities has led to an increase in the number of housing proposals incorporating other social and economic uses – the sustainable mixed use development.  

Given uncertainties in the market and the planning regime many of these applications are in outline.  Whilst this approach maintains the flexibility needed to respond to market conditions over a lengthy timescale it can result in insufficient detail to undertake an adequate assessment of the environmental effects.

EIAs for outline planning applications have been challenged in the UK courts.  The resulting judgements confirm that the level of detail within the planning application, and commitment to delivering proposals within set parameters, is important in meeting the requirements of the EIA Directive.  

Whilst lessons from court judgements have largely been taken on board by applicants a number of approaches to the assessment of effects have been taken.  Some are more effective than others at describing the proposals and demonstrating a commitment to delivering a development that will meet the requirements of a ‘sustainable development’.


abstract_title:
NEPA IMPROVEMENT OR DISMEMBERMENT?  AN ANALYSIS OF THE REPORT OF THE TASK FORCE ON IMPROVING AND UPDATING THE US NATIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY ACT

abstract:
In December 2005, the US Congress’ Federal Task Force on Improving and Updating the National Environmental Policy Act released its Initial Findings and Draft Recommendations.  Interspersed amongst a number of tweaks to improved NEPA’s processes and documents are a number of “silver bullets” that could functionally disable and render irrelevant Federal EIA in the US.  This paper will summarize the good, the bad, and the ugly from that report.


abstract_title:
Regional Environmental Assessment for Sanitation and Sewerage

abstract:
The objectives of this Regional Environmental Assessment is to promote an integrated assessment of the environment effects of the proposed investments on sanitation and sewerage in Metro Manila considering the concession agreements specifying sewerage and sanitation targets, the paucity of wastewater management systems and the disjointed regional planning and socio-economic pressures.      

The major waterways in the metropolis consisting of the Pasig River, Marikina River and the Laguna Lake are polluted because of continuous dumping of wastes to these water bodies. Pasig River, the main watercourse of the metropolis receives 70% of pollution from untreated or inadequately treated domestic wastewater. Metro Manila, home to 10 million people, is composed of 17 cities and 5 municipalities and receives 168 MT of BOD per day from domestic sources, to double as the population increases in ten years.

Among the pressing concerns of the metropolis are housing, employment, health, solid waste,  wastewater management, traffic, air and water pollution. Presently, less than 8% of the Metro Manila is sewered. 85% of the population relies on ISTs, most of which are improperly designed and ill maintained. The remainder of the population resorts to pits and latrines while the rest have no access to basicsanitation facilities.

add_info:
Accepted per Elvis Au prior to online submission.


abstract_title:
Criteria for indicator selection for use in SEA

organization:
Centre for the Environment and Department of Botany

street_add:
School of Natural Sciences, Trinity College Dublin

more_authors:
Mike Jones
Department of Botany and Centre for the Environment, University of Dublin, Trinity College, Dublin 2, Ireland

Tadhg O'Mahony, Gerry Byrne
Environmental Protection Agency, Ireland

abstract:
The primary aim of Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) is to provide for a high level of environmental protection and to integrate environmental considerations into the planning process.  The SEA Directive recommends environmental monitoring to determine the impact of the implementation of plans and programmes.  Environmental indicators are a useful tool through which this impact may be assessed.  However, careful consideration must be given to choosing a set of indicators specific to a particular plan or programme.  In this presentation, we demonstrate the effectiveness of a workshop based approach to develop suitable criteria for indicator selection.  A multi-disciplinary team was used in the approach which consisted of representatives from each of four environmental fields, i.e., biodiversity, water, air and climatic factors, together with SEA experts, planning experts, academics and consultants.  The team reviewed sets of criteria, already in existence, for indicator development but not specifically for SEA indicators.  The results of this review together with original criteria were applied to the final list of criteria agreed upon.  Some criteria developed included, relevance to plan, ability to prioritise and limit conflict with other plan or SEA objectives.  The following is a comprehensive account of the outcomes and conclusions ofthe workshop.


abstract_title:
Impact Assessments in the European Commission: towards more Cost Benefit Analysis?

abstract:
A number of evaluations pointed out that the European Commission Impact Assessments (IAs) have yet to achieve acceptable quality standards. Scarce performance of the EU economy and frequent stakeholder blame on the rigidity of EU regulations, is likely to move the focus of the EU ‘better regulation’ agenda, to where IAs may be employed as justifications for non-regulation and de-regulation measures. The paper offers an overview of different disciplinary approaches for looking at IAs. It provides empirical evidence through the analysis of 60 early days preliminary IAs and a case study based on DG SANCO Unfair Commercial Practice IA. The methodology for examining the IAs is based on both content analysis and in depth interviews with both EC officials and stakeholders affected by the directive. On a theoretical level, the paper concludes that risk regulation encompasses the contextual basis to help understand the nuances between ‘better regulation’, non regulation and de-regulation. On a practical level, it is suggested that the European Commission’s shift in the ‘better regulation’ agenda may bring about a more constant employment of economic analytical instruments, e.g. Cost-Benefit Analysis.

add_info:
The author is member of the Strategic Measurement Monitoring Group at the Better Regulation Executive (UK Cabinet Office). The opinions in the paper are that of the author only.


abstract_title:
Capacity Building for SEA in Brazil: Initial considerations for effective SEA implementation

abstract:
Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) has a prominent position in the ongoing search for instruments that can help governments and other organizations to pursue the goal of sustainability. However, SEA faces challenges and barriers to its effective implementation, such as lack of political will, institutional resistance, lack of clear accountability and responsibility, lack of resources (information, expertise…), limited public involvement and lack of requirements for taking the results of SEA into account. These difficulties have implications for the effectiveness of SEA. This is particularly important in a developing country context, where SEA experience remains recent and limited. 
This research is concerned about describing and critically assessing the understanding of what constitutes effective SEA, identifying the most likely barriers to effective SEA implementation in Brazil, and identifying capacity gaps and associated capacity building needs for SEA considering the Brazilian context. A systemic capacity building approach will be used to address the barriers to implementing SEA. It is expected that the use of this framework to analyse past and present capacities of the EIA/SEA system will reveal the systemic gaps to be plugged by SEA capacity building initiatives in order to promote effective SEA implementation.


abstract_title:
NAFTA ex post assessment of trade liberalization and policy integration: reviewing the evidence

organization:
The Commission for Environmental Cooperation

abstract:
The relationship between international trade and environmental protection exploded into public debate in the early 1990s. As a result, the governments of the United States, Canada and Mexico acted in response to this debate by including a side agreement on environment (the North American Agreement on Environmental Cooperation (NAAEC)to NAFTA. The Commission for Environmental Cooperation (CEC), created by the NAAEC, thus received the mandate to monitor NAFTA’s environmental effects on an ongoing basis – a trade-related environmental assessment that remains unique among all trade agreements in effect today. Keeping with the public participation and transparency focus of the NAAEC, this mandate is fulfilled by regularly issuing calls for papers to the North American public (academics, NGOs, governments, industry) who must refer to the CEC analytical framework (developed in the CEC’s first years) to conduct ex-post assessment of the environmental impacts of NAFTA. Resulting papers are discussed in public symposia, published and widely distributed. This paper reviews the possible policy impacts these ex post assessments may have had and whether we can document cases where they have led to better coordinated environment, economy, and trade policies.

add_info:
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this report reflect those of the author and are not intended to reflect those of the Commission for Environmental Cooperation or the governments of Canada, Mexico or the United States.


abstract_title:
DEVELOPING STANDARD MITIGATION THROUGH SMALL-PROJECT MONITORING AND FOLLOW-UP IN THE CANADIAN COAST GUARD

abstract:
This study explores the Canadian Coast Guard’s application of EIA monitoring and follow-up concepts to multiple small projects to support standard mitigation for aids to navigation structures.  Attention is paid to the lessons learned throughout the EIA process as well as the corporate, legislative, and biophysical environments in which the Coast Guard operates.

Responsible for 27,000 km of coastline on Canada’s west coast, the Pacific Region of the Canadian Coast Guard completes over 25 projects per year that involve the construction of aids to navigation.  In recent years the design and construction of aids have become standardized to reduce costs and promote ease of installation, thereby increasing pressure to have EIA studies completed in shorter time frames.  To keep the process from becoming a pro-forma exercise, the Coast Guard undertook a two-year monitoring and follow-up program to evaluate actual environmental impacts of projects.  At the end of the program, a defensible set of mitigation measures had been identified that address real effects rather than effects predicted by environmental regulators.


abstract_title:
Developing Air Quality Impact Assessment Capacity in Africa through Institutional Building.

abstract:
Poor air quality in African cities is emerging as a key threat to health, environment and quality of life of millions of Africans as the levels of urbanisation, motorisation and economic activity increase. The ability to perform impact assessment as a part of the planning process is important in order to make the right decisions.

Applying such methodologies requires considerable skills and it has become apparent that training, capacity building and strengthening in EIA and SEA methodologies are required.

Several training courses have been conducted by NILU in order to promote air quality monitoring and management in several African countries aimed at building capacity for impact assessment and planning for improving the air quality in large urban areas. Seminars given in Nigeria also aimed at fostering national cooperation and collaboration through a forum of discussions and exchange of experiences as well as strengthening of national air quality assessment capabilities.

The experience from institutional building in Africa will be presented and practical examples including experience and some outcome of training and institutional building will be presented.


abstract_title:
Development of public participation in Environmental Impact Assessment in Thailand

organization:
Office of Natural Resources and Environmental Policy and Planning

abstract:
Environmental Impact Assessment  has been applied in Thailand for environmental planning and management on the development projects screening approach since 1981. Then new Constitution  called the Green Constitution was enacted in 1997.It was drafted by the fundamental of people’s rights and  participation . EIA has also been stated in the Constitution that  projects which may have serious impacts to environmental quality can not be implemented without  EIA and public have their rights to access information from the government agencies before  permission of the projects.  While there is high demand in public participation, the fundamental of public participation  has not been completely applied since it requires the following Act which is in the drafting process.
With  attempt to fulfill the fundamental, Office of the Prime Minister has just issued The Public Hearing Regulation in 2005.Office of Natural Resources and Environmental Policy and Planning also prepares and distributes Guideline for Public Participation and Social Impact Assessment in Environmental Impact Assessment  to strengthen the mechanism of public participation.  This paper presents key elements in new Public Hearing Regulation  and Guideline . Discussion of  main constraints in public participation implementation and recommendations for the future  are also included.


abstract_title:
WITHDRAWN          THE CASE OF HYDROPOWER PROJECTS – PROPOSED BUJAGALI DAM IN UGANDA

abstract:
WITHDRAWN         Power (energy, governance) plays a big role in influencing socio-economic development worldwide. Hydro-power development in the 20th century became a potent global symbol of development.  Dams account for 19% of electricity generated, 14% food production, and constitute the highest expenditure item in aid-budgets worldwide. The World Commission on Dams (WDC) recently issued a report criticising dams for exacerbating ecological havoc, and failing to deliver promised prosperity. This implies a dramatic fall from grace of large dam projects.  
Little has been done to scrutinise dams to ascertain whether the benefits outweigh the costs; and no meaningful community participation has taken place.  Projects including the China's Three Gorges dam, dams on India's Narmada river, and Bujagali dam in Uganda, are ''clearly in breach'' of the WCD guidelines. The Bujagali project was approved by Parliament in 1999.  The  project objectives include: alleviate poverty; expand electricity grid and ensure low-cost electricity. To-date, the project has not been implemented due to unresolved issues (e.g., displaced families; benefits package; tourism; dam safety; river/lake hydrology; cumulative impacts; project alternatives) relating to environmental impact assessment for the project. Despite this scenario, the current Government desires to implement theproject.


abstract_title:
Relocation of 1.778 MW Diesel Lamu Power Station from Lamu Island to Lamu Mainland at Mokowe, Kenya – Impact Assessment

abstract:
Kenya's National Electric grid does not extend to Lamu District. Provision of electricity to the District is by 1.778 MW Diesel Power Station situated on Lamu island operated by Kenya Electricity Generating Company (KenGen). KenGen plans to relocate the Station from the island to the mainland. This is necessary due to safety, environmental, operational and generation expansion requirements. The station only serves the Island which is the main load center of the District due to Tourism Industry and District Headquarters. There is unserved power of 1.5 MW on the mainland due to lack of connectivity to the mainland and lack of generation capacity expansion space. The station is a potential occupational hazard. Should fire occur in the station, this UNESCO World Heritage Site could be decimated. There are also limited fire fighting and evacuation facilities. The study identified by products of the project as wastewater, used lubrication oil,scrap metals and gaseous emissions. Positive impacts include availability of space for expansion, job creation, reduced environmental and safety risk. Potential negative impacts include population increase, disturbance of terrestrial ecology,increased soil erosion and health risks during construction phase. This will be mitigated as per the Environmental Management Plan.


abstract_title:
THE CASE OF HYDROPOWER PROJECTS – PROPOSED BUJAGALI DAM IN UGANDA

abstract:
Power (energy, governance) plays a big role in influencing socio-economic development worldwide. Hydro-power development in the 20th century became a potent global symbol of development.  Dams account for 19% of electricity generated, 14% food production, and constitute the highest expenditure item in aid-budgets worldwide. The World Commission on Dams (WDC) recently issued a report criticising dams for exacerbating ecological havoc, and failing to deliver promised prosperity. This implies a dramatic fall from grace of large dam projects.  

Little has been done to scrutinise dams to ascertain whether the benefits outweigh the costs; and no meaningful community participation has taken place.  Projects including the China's Three Gorges dam, dams on India's Narmada river, and Bujagali dam in Uganda, are ''clearly in breach'' of the WCD guidelines. The Bujagali project was approved by Parliament in 1999.  The  project objectives include: alleviate poverty; expand electricity grid and ensure low-cost electricity. To-date, the project has not been implemented due to unresolved issues (e.g., displaced families; benefits package; tourism; dam safety; river/lake hydrology; cumulative impacts; project alternatives) relating to environmental impact assessment for the project. Despite this scenario, the current Government desires to implement the project


abstract_title:
Preliminary SEA of Great Western Development Strategy in China

organization:
School of Environment, Beijing Normal University

abstract:
The procedure of this SEA was to analyze Great Western Development Strategy (GWDS)development plans, at central and provincial levels and establish the Critical Decision Components (CDCs), e.g. planned objectives and key activities. Once the CDCs were identified they were grouped in accordance with the five Key Developmental Domains (KDDs), including water, land, energy, biodiversity and tourism, and used to form the basis of the analysis. Two methodologies were used to assess the likely environmental impacts: i) Scenario Analysis, and ii) Assessment Matrix. Throughout the assessment process the findings were subject to expert consultations. Findings and predictions for the consequences of the GWDS, for each KDD, are summarized at the province level. Meanwhile, a selection of the countermeasures for critical issues that have emerged is raised as key recommendations for each province. While this assessment was prepared after the initial launch of the GWDS, it is hoped that the extremely long-term perspective of the GWDS will mean that appropriate design modifications can be incorporated as new findings and guidance are developed. It is also hoped that this initiative will provide a template and a baseline against which future assessments in Western China can be implemented.

add_info:
Special thanks to international experts Arend Kolhoff, Rob Verheem, from the Netherlands Commission for Environmental Impact Assessments, Haakon Vennemo from ECON, Norway, Jostein Nygard, Senior Environment Specialist, and Madga Lovei, Sector Manager, Environment and Social Development Unit of the East Asia and Pacific Region (EASES) of the World Bank. Technical assistance and project support was provided by Andrew Murray (Junior Professional Associate).

Funding for this work was generously provided by the Norwegian and Finnish governments through the Trust Fund for Environmentally and Socially Sustainable Development (TFESSD).

a3_org:
The Netherlands Commission for Environmental Impact Assessment


abstract:
“The Nordic Connection” is yet another in the “Connections” series begun at Cartagena in 2001. As before, it consist of three parts: the impact history of the peoples and places and their wider implications; the application of impact assessment theory and methods to the understanding of these trends and events, and their  contribution to field development in impact assessment; and a Nordic Impact Tour that undertakes to recreate this experience in personal terms. In the Nordic case, which generally merges with the Scandinavian, the Viking influence on sea and land has left a deep impression from Eastern Europe to the North Atlantic. No less important is the influence of migrant populations, mostly concentrated in North America. Perhaps the most consequental modern development has been that of North Sea Oil and Gas. It is distinctive of that situation that such development has taken place without the large-scale displacements and distortions elsewhere so evident. In recent years Nordic culture has fostered a peace culture, which has taken expression in their prominent role in international development.


abstract_title:
Environmental and Social Risk Assessment of Lake Chad Basin Ecosystem

abstract:
This is the report of an environmental and social risk assessment (ESRA) of Lake Chad Basin Ecosystem carried out under contract with the Lake Chad Basin Commission and the Global Environment Facility. The assessment encompasses a wide range of substantive and methodological issues, and raises fundamental questions of development policy and practice, such as dependent development and sustainable development, and participant assessment at the policy level. The approach of the study is integrated impact assessment, coupled with a social learning process.


abstract_title:
DEVELOPMENTS ON SEA IN TURKEY. A CASE STUDY: OYMAPINAR TOURISM DEVELOPMENT PLAN

job:
Assistant Professor of International Law

abstract:
Sustainable Development principle was started to be incorporated in
Turkish environmental policies  through  impact assesment practices
since 1990s. EIA was the first tool which Turkey have been
experiencing since 1993. Turkey is now in the process of preparing SEA
legislation. A Draft SEA Regulation was prepared to catch up with the
27. 06. 2001 (2001/42/EC) SEA Directive of the European Union and two
pilot projects were completed for Canakkale and Oymapınar/Antalya
regions. The SEA process for Oymapınar was conducted under the
supervision of the Ministry of Environment and Forestry with the close
collaboration of the Ministry of Tourism.  It was a sensible idea to
make a SEA for
Oymapınar region which is renowned as a unique natural habitat and a
vital water resource for the region.  The ultimate goal was to find an
optimum balance in between environmental priorities and development
pressures.  The performance recorded during the whole SEA process was
qualified as successful but the final decision was not immune from
critisms. The purpose of this presentation is to provide an insight
into Turkish SEA legislation and an overall assesment of SEA practice
for Oymapınar/Antalya.


abstract_title:
Building on Success Factors: A Capacity Development Model for Environmental Management in Viet Nam

abstract:
The Viet Nam Canada Environment Project (VCEP) successfully developed environmental management capacity at the national level and in seven provincial Departments of Natural Resources and Environment (DoNREs) over a 10-year period. A Stakeholder and Beneficiary Analysis determined the benefits of VCEP were far reaching and significant in assisting VCEP’s counterpart provinces to fulfill their environmental management mandates. To sustain these benefits and build on VCEP’s success, our counterparts requested an “Institutional Model for DoNRE Development” based on VCEP’s approach and experience. This paper provides an overview of this model, which has been used to build capacity for EA, environmental monitoring, industrial pollution management, and awareness raising. Model development began with identification of key VCEP “success factors,” which were then used to define essential capacity building components (Core Building Blocks). The building blocks − the project’s management systems, resources, project specific “ways of working”, and the learning environment − combined to create a unique empowering environment within which environmental management agencies/staff have grown in confidence and competence. When replicated, these core building blocks form the “model”; a legacy that will guide future efforts to equalize environmental management capacity throughout Vietnam, and which has broader external applicability.


abstract_title:
Universal Design and Tourism: A Missing Link In Impact Assessment

job:
Environmental Policy and Program Manager

abstract:
Current estimates of disabled people are over 600 million worldwide.  The number of disabled persons is steadily increasing as medical advances create healthier and longer life.  The population over sixty years old currently numbers in the hundreds of millions worldwide and is expected to quadruple in the next few decades.  Of this expanding group, 50-60% are likely to have some form of disability.  Studies indicate disabled persons travel at a rate comparable to non-disabled persons, especially from more developed countries; however, the accessibility of destinations is deemed crucial by these prospective tourists.  

Universal design improves accessibility for all persons encountering mobility/activity difficulties including everyday situations (e.g., temporary disability from accidents, parents with baby carriages, small children or older persons).

Plus, real accessibility has a substantial economic dimension.  A recent Australian study, estimated 3.7 million trips by physically disabled people with an average travel group of 4.1 people. The total amount spent by people with disabilities on their last holiday adds to approximately $472 million Australia wide.  When translated internationally, the impact of people with disabilities tourism market is far too significant to ignore and countries that aggressively encourage the disabled tourist will benefit enormously.


abstract_title:
Policy-Level Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA): Completing the Cycle

abstract:
For the past several years the International Association for Impact Assessment has explored opportunities to maximize the capabilities of the policy-level SEA.  A vital need toward insuring real and legitimate decision-making both for the immediate policy/project and future actions is monitoring.  How can a policy-level SEA be monitored and appraised?  Can it be used as a dynamic process?  Can it expedite project-specific planning and implementation? 

Through the use of a case study from one of the US Department of Energy’s Power Marketing Agencies, Charles Alton and Ben Underwood will demonstrate how policy-level SEA can integrate efficient and effective monitoring tools to complete the cycle of policy/project development and implementation.  As will be demonstrated, a well managed SEA process is an extremely valuable tool for the practitioner and has proven to be scientifically sound, politically and institutionally feasible, and legally defensible.


abstract_title:
Planning hydroelectric power plants with the public: a case of organizational and social learning in Mexico

abstract:
For different reasons the need to bring public participation to the planning process of hydroelectric power plants has increased around the world. This represents a challenge for the public and the utility companies.  The incorporation of public participation in an environmental impact assessment requires a social and organizational learning process. 
This paper presents findings of an experience of participatory assessment conducted in five municipalities of two states in western Mexico.  In this experience, public participation was conceived as a long term process that starts in the early stages of the assessment and continues during the construction and operation of the power plant. Methods and strategies used emphasized the need to blend technical knowledge and popular beliefs about environmental change and to create opportunities for social interaction based on trust. Stakeholders worked together to develop strategies for impact mitigation that would be socially acceptable. 
The paper explains the process highlighting the strategies used to overcome challenges and findings regarding the connection between progress in the social and organizational learning process and the willingness of stakeholders to participate in a consensus building effort that contributes to identify mitigation measures and areas of opportunity for regional development and environmental sustainability.


abstract_title:
EIA as a Tourism Planning Tool: Case Study in Oman

abstract:
Omani Tourism witnessed a rapid growth in the last five years. This was reflected in the rapid development of the remote desert areas in Oman as a respond to the increasing demand of tourist to virgin tourist attractions. One of the major examples representing this trend can be identified in the case of tourism development of Dhofar governorate in Oman. With its location and its wealth of natural and heritage resources represented an attraction to tourists coming from other Arabian Gulf countries and from Europe. 

Several types of environmental impacts were identified as a result of tourism development in Dhofar. Negative impacts that could occur if tourism development is poorly planned, designed and managed in the province, include; Air pollution from vehicular exhausts of increased tourist vehicles; water pollution from untreated waste water generated by tourist facilities; noise pollution from tourist vehicles and gatherings of tourists; congestion at popular tourist sites by visitors; Inappropriate grading of the landscape; littering of tourism sites and improper disposal of solid waste; marring of tourist attractions and facilities by graffiti and vandalism; and excessive removal of flora and fauna and disruption of natural ecosystems by inappropriate tourism development or tourist use of the area.

add_info:
A recommended approach for the management of tourist resources is the use of the environmental planning approach to plan all forms of tourism projects. An essential aspect of good environmental planning is establishing sustainable carrying capacities and staying within acceptable levels of change to the environment. Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) was an important procedure and tool for giving greater assurance that new tourism projects are environmentally integrated and compatible. The EIA procedure is mandatory for all new nature-based and cultural heritage tourism developments, and EIA’s should be reviewed by the Ministry of Environment in collaboration with the Ministry of Tourism.

This paper presents the Omani experience to integrate tourism facilities and infrastructure into, and be compatible with, the natural environment and reflect the local cultural along with its architectural traditions. Sustainable tourism development requires regulated growth and improvement of facilities which meet pre-defined design standards and criteria.  A ‘Manual for Development of Tourist Projects’ and a ‘Guidance Booklet for Development of Tourism Projects’ including parameters for preparing an EIA and detailed guidelines for the architectural design of tourist facilities, and appropriate design standards of eco-tourism facilities will facilitate the adoption of such an approach.


abstract_title:
Development of a guidance tool for professionalizing biodiversity inclusive EIA

abstract:
The Asia component of the Capacity Building in Biodiversity and Impact Assessment project aims to build capacity through transfer of knowledge, institution-building and networking in five South Asian countries. . As part of this project, a ‘Needs Assessment Survey’ was carried out in Bangladesh, India, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka, based on which it was decided to develop a guidance tool in form of “Practitioners’ and Reviewers’ Guide (PRG)” to effectively review and address biodiversity concerns in impact assessment. Incorporating the cross-cutting sector priorities and the proposed foreign direct investments, it was agreed to focus the PRG on three key sectors viz. mining, roads and oil & gas.
	Guidance for economic valuation and assessment of biodiversity goods and services and integration of socio-cultural attributes in all stages of EIA process will be the salient feature of the PRG. Country-specific case examples and lessons learnt would be included in the PRG to sensitize the project proponents and the decision makers on the need as well as the ways and means to integrate biodiversity in impact assessment. The paper discusses the road map for development of this guidance tool and seeks inputs from the global EIA community.


abstract_title:
Time for a new approach to environmental assessments: Promoting cooperation and consensus for sustainability

abstract:
One of the fundamental challenges of project based environmental assessments (EA) has been to deliver on the promise of meaningful public participation leading to decisions that put affected societies on the path to sustainability.  The record to date has been less than promising, leading the authors to propose that it is time to consider a different approach to legislating public participation in project assessments, one that starts with the ultimate objective of cooperation and consensus building.  The authors work back from this objective and propose an EA process specifically designed to encourage all participants to participate constructively.  In the process, the authors identify how the proposed process will address various criticisms made of the traditional approach to EA by proponents, government officials and members of the public alike.  Through a fundamental shift from process requirements to a focus on the outcomes of EA, the authors propose a way forward for project based EA to deliver on the promise of becoming a central tool on the path to sustainability.

a2_org:
Marine and Environmental Law and Policy (MELP) Institute


abstract_title:
WITHDRAWN         STRATEGIC ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT (SEA) AS AN EMERGING TREND IN THE PHILIPPINES EIS S

street_add:
5th Flr. Environmental and Social Services Office (ESSO)

abstract:
WITHDRAWN       Present country system implements the EIS System to assess the direct and indirect impacts of a project on the biophysical and human environment, and to ensure that these impacts are addressed by appropriate environmental protection and enhancement measures. The EIS System covers in general only projects that pose potential significant impact to the environment and shall be required to secure Environmental Compliance Certificate (ECCs).
 
A most recent development in the Philippine EIS System is the Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) which is soon to become an Act to strengthen and streamline the EIA System. SEA has several features that will enhance the implementation of a policy, plan or
It is now an emerging trend in the implementation of a strategic proposal such as policy, plan, or program of a proponent that is likely to have significant environmental effect. The factor to consider in conducting SEA are:
a. the relevance of the plan or program to the integration of environmental, social and health considerations and promoting sustainable development. 
b. the degree to which the plan or program will effect valuable or vulnerable areas and groups, or environmentally critical areas. 
c. the nature of the environmental, social and health effects and risks.


abstract:
The CBBIA Asia Project seeks to build capacity in the South / South East Asian regions through training, knowledge transfer, institution building and networking. It is a joint initiative of IUCN Asia, in collaboration with WII and MWBP. The involved partner countries are Bangladesh, India, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka. The major activities of the project are highlighted below.

A Needs Assessment Survey (NAS) was conducted to identify the understanding and role of biodiversity and EIA and training needs of the identified institutions in the five countries. It helped identify EIA as the sector to focus on and recognized SEA as a more effective tool to protect biodiversity in the region.

An inception workshop helped in the project prioritization process and in developing synergy between the project partners, to ease future collaborative work. Additionally, a contacts consultative workshop to be held in Islamabad, Pakistan, from 16th-19th February 2006, will involve participants from the three sectors- mining, roads and oil and gas- in the process and gain from their contribution. Other project outputs include development of contacts database and EIA Practitioners and Reviewers Guides.

The project will incorporate economic concerns in impact assessment, with relation to biodiversity goods, services and values.


abstract_title:
COMPENSATORY MEASURES FOR HABITAT LOSS. SPANISH EXAMPLES

job:
Lecturer . E.T.S Ingenieros Caminos, Canales y Puertos. Universidad Politécnica

abstract:
The implementation of compensatory measures required by the Habitat Directive is controversial. Nowadays, professionals haven’t enough criteria to applicate them. The great number of different habitats under the Natura Network make it more difficult. The good experiences can be the reference for new cases, although the real effectiveness is an unresolved matter. In this paper we analyze three Spanish practical examples:
The Melonares Dam. It’s the first dam in Spain in which compensatory measures have been implemented, primarily, the establishment of a compensation Area. The cost of mitigation and compensatory measures was the 52% of the project budget.
The A-381, The Ecological Highway. This highway runs through a protected area containing the most relevant landscapes and ecological richness in Andalucia. For the first time, an integrated Project of Compensatory Measures has been developed, tackling the indirect or diffuse impact the road may cause to the ecosystems. In this case, the cost of the measures was the 30% of the total project.
The M-50 Highway. Important measures were implemented for lost habitat of the Falco naumanni compensation. Examples of correct compensatory measures were acquiring lands and the construction of a specific building for this bird

a2_job:
Doctorate student.E.T.S Ingenieros Caminos, Canales y Puertos. Universidad Politécnica


abstract_title:
Addressing socio-economic determinants in HIA

abstract:
Socio-economic factors are among the strongest determinants of health. When evaluating the health implications of plans or policies, especially at the strategic level, the role of socio-economic factors is almost invariably important, but difficult to assess. There is, however, a large body of literature on various aspects of socio-economic fators, including absolute and relative deprivation, income and its distribution, education, employment, housing quality, social cohesion: all are strong predictors of health in different contexts and at different levels of aggregation. There are many difficulties in turning such evidence into valid and useful HIA, mainly due to the complex multifactorial nature of the association between health and socio-economic factors. These difficulties may appear insurmountable, yet even small progress in the methodology might substantially improve the quality of HIAs, especially those where the available information is limited and tends to draw the attention to relatively weak health determinants. Also, a more thorough analysis of socio-economic factors may be valuable on HIAs done in settings such as economies in transition or developing countries. For these reasons, this question is currently being addressed in the HIA-NMAC collaborative project (HIA in new EU member states and accession countries).


abstract_title:
CBBIA: Getting the Process Started in Asia


abstract_title:
Concepts Used for a Reader Friendly EIS on A Large Transportation Project in Seattle, Washington

abstract:
The Alaskan Way Viaduct is one of only two north-south highway routes through Seattle, Washington, USA. The viaduct and its seawall support structure are in need of replacement due to deterioration and are at risk of falling in an earthquake event.  Replacement of the viaduct and seawall is a $4 billion project that will shape the region for the next 100 years.  To best inform the public, stakeholders, and the decision makers about the alternatives and project trade-offs, the project team developed a unique reader friendly EIS following 4 basic concepts: 
•	tell a story, 
•	make it brief, 
•	engage the reader, and 
•	make it visual.  
Provided in this presentation is the approach and examples that the team used to develop this EIS.  The project approach has won several international, national, state, and local environmental excellence awards and has served as a catalyst for the state department of transportation to develop a new environmental impact assessment methodology for all future state transportation projects requiring environmental review. This presentation will highlight the approaches used under each of the four concepts.


abstract_title:
Recasting the “Environment” in SEA to Explicitly Encompass Natural Hazards

abstract:
While not always recognized or acted upon, SEA provides for systematically considering the dynamic (including natural events such as floods, hurricanes, and earthquakes) and stationary dimensions of the environment.  The central question of this research is: are natural hazards being adequately considered in SEA generally and in Latin America in particular?  This research will investigate the way academics and practitioners perceive natural hazards in the context of SEAs, examine how development bank-supported SEAs in Latin America are addressing natural hazards, and propose solutions for shortcomings associated with natural hazards in SEA as well as elucidate additional contextual factors in Latin America that impact SEA’s effectiveness.  Of particular relevance to this year’s conference theme, a large part of the preliminary literature review has been devoted to issues of power and participation within the natural hazards context.  As well, poverty and sustainability issues are intimately bound up with addressing natural hazards and environmental measures for their reduction.  These areas will be highlighted.  Methodologically, this research will develop an analytical framework and evaluation criteria for assessing natural hazards in SEA, honed and contextualized by a survey to be administered to willing participants at the 2006 IAIA Conference in Norway.


abstract_title:
Strategic Environmental Assessment in China: Status and Challenge

add_contd:
college of environmental science and Engineering

abstract:
The implementation of environmental impact assessment (EIA) in China started in the in the late 1970s.In the past two decades, the practice focused mainly on construction projects. The Law of People’s Republic of China on Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA Law) was approved by the top legislature on October 28, 2002. In this new law, strategic environmental assessment (SEA) was introduced and regulated for the first time. To date, only a small number of countries and international organizations have made official provisions for SEA. The substantial variation of their frameworks indicates the flexible adaptation of SEA to different levels and types of decision-making processes. Through this new EIA Law, EIA for plans or programs is a type of strategic environmental assessment (SEA) where the concept of SEA is for the first time being advocated by the Nation at this level. We review the development of SEA in China and related regulations on plan/program environmental impact assessment (PEIA). We also identify and analyze the key issues and challenges in the current pactice of PEIA and propose suggestions for the effective implementation of SEA in China.

a2_addcontd:
college of environmental science and Engineering


abstract_title:
Cumulative effects, is that an issue in Swedish EIA/SEA?

abstract:
This contribution will present results from an interview study made with different EIA/SEA actors regarding their understanding and view on cumulative impacts. The main aim of the study was to investigate hindrances and opportunities to investigate cumulative effects in EIA/SEA in Sweden.

The outcome deals with actors’ definition and opinion of cumulative effects in relation to their wish to work with cumulative effects, their actual possibilities to work with, and how they concretely work with these effects. These aspects are in some cases unanimous but the analysis showed several statements that were in opposition towards each other.

The method used is half structured explorative interviews. The actors’ approach, definition and understanding of cumulative effects were mapped out in the interview analysis by categorising statements in purpose to find hindrances and opportunities to work with this issue.  

The background of the study is that Sweden are demanded to investigate cumulative impacts due to the European “EIA directive” and “SEA directive”. Previous studies have however showed that cumulative impacts are more or less always missing in environmental impact assessments in Sweden.


abstract_title:
Biodiversity Management in the Niger Delta Area of Nigeria

abstract:
Environmental pollution arising from Oil prospecting and exploration in Nigeria has impacted negatively on the biodiversity of the affected areas. The main stresses arise from leakages of crude oil pipelines, gas flaring and other associated chemicals used in the production processes. The effects have been noticed on the flora and fauna of the freshwater ecosystems in this part of Nigeria. This paper would discuss the various impacts oil production have had so far on the biodiversity of this unique part of Nigeria, efforts made so far by government, the oil companies and NGOs to remedy the situation and the way forward.


abstract_title:
Facilitating Practitioner Networks: Do weblogs have a role in HIA collaborative learning?

abstract:
The New South Wales HIA Project seeks to build capacity across government to undertake HIA.  Though a HIA website and e-newsletter were developed ealy in the project, a need was identified for an additional mechanism to enable communication and discussion between the growing body HIA practitioners.

A weblog was established to facilitate dialog between HIA practitioners:
http://healthimpactassessment.blogspot.com

Blogs are distinct from traditional websites in that they facilitate regular updating, allowing any reader to comment on posts and can accommodate a large number of contributing authors.

In addition to providing details of the HIA blog and sample posts, this poster will detail some of the challenges, opportunities and insights that arise from using blogs in this way.

There are a range of potential HIA-related applications for blogs:
* Individuals using blogs to document and share their personal experience of undertaking HIA;
* Organisations using blogs to share information within organisations whilst showcasing their HIA experience to a wider audience, and
* Practitioner networks using blogs to share tips and tacit knowledge.

The use of blogs may provide a mechanism for exchanging knowledge and experience between members of the disparate (and far-flung) community of HIA practitioners around the world.


abstract_title:
Planning and Zoning: The Forgotten Aspect of Project Development

abstract:
Project development routinely begins with the question of “what permits do we need?” Fortunately it is generally recognized that a project must address the potential impacts that it will have on the environment and responsibly develop means to mitigating these during project construction and operation. Often forgotten is the issue of whether the proposed development will actually be allowed at the site that has been selected. Under the title zoning, master planning or land allocation local and/or federal governments exercise control over site development. The process of site development approval typically runs parallel to project environmental review. Documents prepared and used for the one process quite often are required for the second process. Because of the overlap in the agencies that participate in these parallel processes, project proponents often see this as duplicative and unnecessary. Rather the processes are complementary and if identified at the start of development the studies and analyses needed to support both can and should be coordinated in order to meet project cost and schedule objectives. This discussion will explore these parallel processes as they are implemented in several countries, identify the common elements and provide examples of how both can be effectively pursued simultaneously.


abstract_title:
Making Decisions on Biodiversity: the Challenges Faced in Southern Africa

organization:
Southern African Institute for Environmental Assessment

abstract:
In recognition of the need to improve the consideration of biodiversity in impact assessments, IAIA initiated a three-year global project with funding from the Dutch government.  The project in southern Africa focuses on building capacity within decision-making authorities on biodiversity issues.  The first phase of the project was a Situation Assessment to determine the levels of understanding of biodiversity issues and sustainable development principles, the importance attached to biodiversity, how decisions are made, and the criteria used to make trade-offs between biodiversity and socio-economic issues.

The findings of the study showed that biodiversity issues are often compromised in the pursuit of short-term development objectives, due to:

•	The way in which biodiversity information is provided to decision-makers in the EIA reports;
•	The levels of understanding of the links between poverty reduction, rural livelihoods, sustainable economic development and the value of ecosystem services;
•	The criteria used to make decisions;
•	The lack of follow-up, auditing and enforcement of EMPs and RODs.

This paper examines some of the main findings and sets out how some of the issues can be addressed through the development of capacity building materials such as a guidance document and training materials.

a3_org:
Southern African Institute for Environmental Assessment


abstract_title:
Adding Credibility to the EIA Process: the Value of Guide and Review

abstract:
The EIA process, from screening to the RoD and beyond, is often criticised for being less than credible by a range of dissatisfied people.  The reasons mostly relate to inadequacies in the legal process, the content of the reports, the cognisance of I&AP issues, the scope and scale of the study, the basis for the decision, together with misplaced perceptions about the "value" of the EIA in a country where development is a priority.

There is therefore a growing need for quality assurance and this can be achieved through external guide and review processes.  There are numerous advantages for all parties concerned, because it ensures that: the tender process is robust, ToRs are comprehensive, the legal process is followed, appropriate timetables and budgets are allocated, that there is meaningful dialogue between the proponent and the EIA consultant, and it helps to build capacity all round.  Perhaps the greatest advantage is that it reduces the risk of project delays by ensuring that the EIA process is done correctly first time round.  The use of peer review has also contributed to more informed decision-making.

This paper examines the success of guide and review in the southern African context.


abstract_title:
Governance and public participation in China - towards a sustainable urbanization strategy

abstract:
China is facing a big urbanization challenge as a registered 18 million rural people annually migrate from the countryside to its cities. Uncontrolled migration, rapid economic growth and inefficient use of natural resources lead to excessive pollution and rapid depletion of China’s natural resources. The Chinese government is well aware of these environmental challenges and formulated policies and legislation to protect the environment and have a more sustainable growth. The same it did with respect to migration; it expressed its intention to have a sustainable urbanization strategy. Moreover, rapid modernization of Chinese society also led to first experiments with the organization of public hearings on environmental issues. Hopeful initiatives in themselves but till now the pace of economic growth, urban sprawl, congestion and environmental degradation seemed uncontrollable and the success of environmental policies very limited. 
In this paper we focus on the governance aspects of China’s environmental policy making. We will discuss how public involvement and environmental governance relate and how public participation might support the implementation of a sustainable urbanization strategy as was proposed to the Chinese government by the China Council for International Cooperation on Environment and Development.


abstract_title:
Mediated representativity in agenda setting and policy analysis: the VPA AIDS & Rural Development

organization:
Larenstein University of Professional Ecucation

abstract:
The AIDS epidemic destructs the social fabric and generates new demands on infrastructure, technology and the communication information system that goes far beyond health issues and conflicts with the slow pace of mainstreaming HIV/AIDS issues in rural development organisations. This justifies elaborating innovative interventions on short notice, which are sufficiently grounded in empirical knowledge and consented with direct stakeholders. 
Filmed interviews can be used for problem framing, agenda setting and policy analysis. This has been exploited in the Visual Problem Appraisal (VPA) where users ‘meet’ stakeholders through filmed interviews. By bringing ‘distanced’ or otherwise ‘overlooked’ stakeholders in a mediated way to the doorstep of decision makers we have the ambition to facilitate the consideration of their stories, concerns and proposals.  This form of “mediated representativity” creates new spaces of governance as it allows indirect stakeholders and policy makers to ‘learn’ in semi-interaction with direct stakeholders. 
Advantages for interviewees in rural communities are the local setting, its sole interference and extended reach. Mediated representativity has disadvantages too, but is preferred over the absence of direct stakeholders due to transport constraints and impairments due to HIV/AIDS and stigmatization.
This paper shares our experiences with the VPA AIDS & Rural Development.


abstract:
The Visual Problem Appraisal (VPA) Kerala's Coast is a film-based simulated consultancy mission to India. 

Students participating in the VPA 'meet' real stakeholders: fishermen telling the story of their live, environmentalists promoting mangrove reforestation and the policy maker who explains the coastal zone regulation act. Participants are confronted with the social complexity and conflicting agendas of these stakeholders.

VPA Kerala's Coast consists of 2 documentaries, 23 filmed interviews, a student's workbook and a facilitator's guide.

a2_org:
Larenstein University of Professional Education


abstract_title:
DUPLICATE of 247, 349 Visual Problem Appraisal Kerala's Coast


abstract_title:
DUPLICATE of 347, 348  Visual Problem Appraisal Kerala's Coast


abstract_title:
Poverty and sustainability associated to hydro power schemes in Mexico

abstract:
Poverty and sustainability associated to hydro power schemes in Mexico 

Gomez B. A., Lecanda T. C., Zurutuza V. E., Saldaña F. P.

The social impacts for dams’ construction, such as losses of agricultural lands, crops and private houses have been solved based on agreements with government agencies, States and Municipalities. These agreements are facing   rejection by affected population. In general, the main benefits are highlighted like jobs offer and potential low scale fishing and tourism in reservoirs, rather than a long term regional development strategy. The current condition of people associated to  dams is of poverty and lack of jobs; apart of being disappointed at the compensatory process. Scarce long term environmental management and monitoring, have increased poverty, since water and land uses upstream and in the reservoir are deteriorating water quality and landscape. Therefore, for improving the EIA energy sector performance and promote more tangible benefits, a review and classification of impacts is carried out to internalize them. Strategic Impact Assessment at sector level is  encouraged to deal with synergistic and cumulative impacts. Strengthening early public involvement and agreements among different agencies is seen as an urgent measure to reduce social conflicts and impacts management for meeting sustainability.

a2_job:
Head of Ressetlement, Compensations and Ecology Discipline

a3_job:
Head of the South Pacific Regional Center for  Hydro Planning

a4_job:
Head of Department of  Hydrobiology and Environmental Assessment


abstract_title:
Building a Sustainable Economy from Upstream Petroleum Activity: Lessons from Atlantic Canada

abstract:
There is increasing interest in creating sustainable economic and social development. This has led governments, NGOs and some corporations to placing a growing emphasis on the use of renewable resources, the development and use of local capacities, and small-scale and ‘bottom-up’ economic development. 

Upstream petroleum activity presents significant challenges in this regard. Indeed, it is commonly seen as incompatible with sustainable economic development because: it involves large industrial projects; these are capital intensive and use specialized equipment and personnel that are unlikely to available locally; construction activity may have ‘boom and bust’ effects; and, the resource depletion or market factors eventually leads to the cessation of activity. Upstream petroleum industry activity is also commonly expected to have negative effects on more sustainable industries, such as agriculture, fishing and tourism.

However, notwithstanding these apparent incompatibilities, upstream petroleum activity has created significant and sustainable economic development in Atlantic Canada. It has resulted in: a new sector of the economy; the export of petroleum expertise, goods and services; the sale of these, or developments thereof, to other industries; and an increasingly entrepreneurial and ambitious business sector. This paper describes this experience and some of the approaches and initiatives that underlie it.


abstract_title:
The challenges to growth, peace and unity in Africa

more_authors:
I'm young person with a passion for community development initiatives.I am the second in the family of five, I acquired the basic Education required in Nigeria.
I like advocating for the voiceless, especially the less-privileged ones. I also believe that we all can live lives worthy of emulation (by generations to come) if we contribute positively - by putting in our best in whatever we are involved in.
Am studying Economics at the Federal University of Ilorin,Nigeria and also a professional study on  Humanitarian & Refugee Research at the British Council . I'm interested in issues relating to children, youth and women empowerment, especially in developing countries like Nigeria.
At my early stage in life, I was able to organize different dialogue or deliberations on how to better an average person living in the rural areas.
I am a facilitator, trainer and a member of the All-Africa Students'Union.
My goal is to contribute to socio-political and economic development through skills transfer, knowledge sharing, networking and policy advocacy.
I have  attended various conferences and workshops in Nigeria and around the world towards empowering the youth One of such conferences I attended was at Switzerland. ISC SYMPOSIUM conference was held annually at the University of St. Gallen, Switzerland, is the world’s leading neutral platform for critical and constructive debate on issues of global concern. It seeks 
to promote dialogue crossing the boundaries of cultures, generations and interest groups and the ISC-SYMPOSIUM is no doubt a better avenue for every young mind who would want to be heard to ventilate his/her views as concerned political and economic matters both nationally and Globally. 
For information about the event, their website is www.isc-symposium.org

abstract:
The challenges to growth and prosperity in Africa are said to be of minimal standard, due to the problems. The problems of Africa can be said to be broadly divided in two: internal aggression and external dominance. Africa is presently suffering from poverty and bad leadership. There will be no peace as long as African youth remain ignorant, half-educated or badly educated. Any child that suffers from this mis-education syndrome will be an easy prey in the hands of an ambitious and greedy leader. He will be unemployed because he is not properly educated; he'll look for job with is ill-equipped certificate. He'll find no job but whenever conflicts break out among these greedy, selfish and ambitious leaders the unemployed African youth are the target.........
There must be adequate cultural integration among African States. This will be new direction for Black common wealth, Bangada begin to borrow culturally from Acholic and Langi, the Kiknuyu to borrow from the Luo, perhaps one day the Zanzibars from South Africa will borrow culturally across thousands of miles from the Yoruba in West Africa only a relatively positive approach to this could move the continent towards genuine self discovery....


abstract_title:
Trategic Environmental Evaluation  of the plan of installation of bay of Sangareya: Problems of the exploitation of the natural resources

organization:
Center of searcher scientific  Rogbanè of Conakry(CERESCOR

more_authors:
Strategic Environmental evaluation of the plan of installation of bay of Sangaréya: Problems of the exploitation of the natural resources 
 
Presented by Dr. Sény Chef of Laboratory Geophysical Department of Géologie/Environnement CERESCOR LP TELLS: 1615 Conakry Republic of Guinea West Africa Such: (224) 33 14 95 e-mail: hawacamara2@yahoo.fr

abstract:
Strategic Environmental evaluation of the plan of installation of bay of Sangaréya: Problems of the exploitation of the natural resources 
 
                   Abstract:
 
Formerly, the ecosystems of mangrove in coastal zone were in margin of the policies of development, the texts of laws and the planned achievements which govern the protection of its environment.  
The creation of the forest code in 1989 and the master development plan of mangrove (SDAM) in 1990, to cause concrete measures of protection and durable exploitation of the resources of the mangrove. Thus the pilot project of installation of the mangrove of Dubreka; with a plan of forest installation for bay of SANGAREYA. 
 In 1992, the plan of founded installation, held account the promotion of the socio-ecomic activities for the balance of the ecosystem: The contents relate to: 
- the knowledge of the medium in particular the forest capital and the systems ` exploitation of the resources. 
- principal constraints and principles of installation suggested 
- the environmental diagnosis carried out shows a strong tendency to the environmental pollution of the bay . 
-Responsibilisation of the local population in the forest stock management which can support the durable exploitation of the resources and the conservation of the ecosystem


abstract_title:
Sida EIA Helpdesk at the Swedish EIA Centre

abstract:
Sida EIA Helpdesk at the Swedish EIA Centre

Sustainable development shall permeate all activities supported by the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (Sida/Asdi). Making EIAs is believed to be an important method for reviewing environmental aspects of development projects and thereby determining whether proposed projects contribute to or counteract sustainable development. According to Sida’s regulations, an EIA shall be made for all contributions financed by Sida. However, the scope of the assessment can vary between different types of contributions, i.e. the EIA shall be adapted to the contribution. Sida does not make the EIA – this is the responsibility of the partner in cooperation. Sida´s role is to review the EIA and to provide support. 

The Swedish EIA Centre provides an EIA Helpdesk for Sida. The helpdesk provides for example: 

• Environmental guidance to Sida employees at all levels including field offices as well as Sida partners,
• Reviews and advice regarding Sida-supported projects and programmes, EIA and SEA documents and policy documents,
• Advice on terms of reference for EIA and SEA,
• Support in the area of capacity building to regional EIA centres in Sida partner
countries,
• EIA and SEA training for Sida staff and cooperating partners.

add_info:
The poster will present the Sida EIA helpdesk and our work. We could not find a suitable topical stream above for this subject.


abstract:
Overweight and obesity pose an increasingly important public health problem, contributing to a number of serious diseases such as diabetes, coronary heart disease, musculoskeletal disorders and cancer.

The main determinants of overweight are an unhealthy diet and a lack of physical activity. A range of policy sectors influence these factors, including housing and spatial planning, transport, leisure, agriculture, and trade.

Assessing policies, programmes and project in such sectors for impacts on overweight determinants contributes to healthy public policies. We could call this ‘obesity-focused HIA’. Since obesity is not equally distributed in populations, special attention should be paid to vulnerable groups such as children and young people, ethnic minorities and those with poor socioeconomic status.

A model for such obesity-focused HIA will be presented, offering an overview of the impacts to be assessed as well as a guide through all HIA stages (screening, scoping, assessment, appraisal, policy influencing). In the model HIA methodology is combined with insights from the prevention field.

add_info:
This paper builds further on a workshop carried out at IAIA '05:
HIA as an Instrument for Health Promotion: The Case of Obesity


abstract_title:
Good practices in SEA of spatial plans in Sweden and the Netherlands

abstract:
The EU SEA Directive requires among others the performance of strategic environmental assessment (SEA) for spatial plans. Two EU countries, Sweden and the Netherlands, have already long experience in carrying out environmental impact assessments (EIAs) for certain types of spatial plans.

Nonetheless (or perhaps due to this experience), these countries encounter problems in performing SEAs according to the requirements of the Directive. This paper focuses on these problems and good approaches to them. 

Firstly, the Swedish and Dutch SEA systems are discussed. Interesting to notice is that both countries (with long tradition in EIA for spatial plans) only implemented the minimum requirements of the SEA Directive. 
 
Secondly, the encountered problems in applying SEA for spatial plans are discussed. These are e.g. lack of knowledge and experience of competent authorities with the SEA procedure in general and regarding alternative development and impact prediction in particular, and their lack of motivation for performing SEAs. 

Thirdly and last, good practices to address these problems are presented and discussed.  

The IAIA participants at the conference are invited to discuss if the problems are unique for these two countries and if previous EIA experience has advantages or disadvantages for implementation of the SEA Directive.


abstract_title:
"Auroville - The City the Earth Needs" : A Successful Case of an Innovative and Integrated Sustainable Development

organization:
Auroville's Town Planning Service & Centre for Urban Research

abstract:
It is about developing a new mind set towards the harmonious co-existence of all. The conference theme relate to the Consciousness of people which determines the life style which in turn requires power in its various forms. Consciousness is the greatest human power. Auroville’s case is a ray of hope in this direction – an inspiring, human aspiration powered integrated vision & transforming development on ground.  

Auroville, established in 1968, is a Universal Township near Pondicherry, South India, today, has 2,000 Aurovilian residents representing over 40 nationalities. Auroville’s ideals, innovative approaches & experiments in various fields of life have earned it a name synonymous to sustainable community living. It was completely barren land that has been transformed into a lush green forest within a small period of 20 years thus recharging the ground water table and creating a habitable environment for all & thus also bringing unique social integration & experiments and acceptance to various alternative forms of Power in different fields & emerging as a role model esp. for developing world where there is ‘poverty’ & huge ‘power’ requirement.  A living example of a vision driven society positively impacting its environment while making an urban area and vice versa. 

www.auroville.org


abstract_title:
Alternatives, Options and Scenarios in Stategic Environmental Assesment

abstract:
While environmental assessment is already established practice for many types of projects, the Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) Directive (2001/42/EC) requires environmental protection at a higher level of planning through the assessment of significant potential environmental effects of plans or programmes.  Assessment is further required of different or alternative options which may also fulfill the goals of the plan or programme. 

Alternatives can be described as the range of rational choices or options open to decision makers in response to specific problems.  However, alternatives can also be used as ways of achieving a future vision or scenario such as the objective(s) of the plan/programme.  Thus, in SEA, a set of alternatives can lead towards a predefined plan or programme goal or they can be placed within a set of future scenarios. 

In this research paper, a pilot SEA of a proposed regional waste management plan in Ireland is used to: 1) access how alternatives and scenarios are identified, described and evaluated such that likely environmental impacts may be considered early in decision making; 2) access how the ‘best’ option was chosen to fulfil the objectives of the plan.


abstract_title:
Establishment and Application of Eco-environmental Risk Assessment System of Highway: A Case Study from G315 Yitunbulake-Qiemo Section of Xinjiang

organization:
Xinjiang Institute of Ecology and Geography, CAS

abstract:
The ecoenvironmental risk assessment system of highway, based on the Analytic Hierarchy Process and specialists’ ideas, is set up. To give prominence to the spatial attribute of each assessment index the weight values were determined by the magnitude of special range that was influenced by assessment index. By translating relative maps using GIS the influenced range of environmental factors, the area occupied, was gotten. The lengths impacted by disaster factors were measured by the route reconnaissance and design. The results of applying the assessment system to evaluate the ecoenvironmental risk assessment of G315 Yitunbulake-Qiemo section of Xinjiang shows that the ecoenvironmental risk indices of the road region, ERA are between 1.55~3.23. According to the heterogeneity of the ecoenvironmental vulnerability indices (Σxiwi) and disasters indices (Σyiwj) included in ERA, we used 4 risk ranks to assess the eight units of landscape ecology in the Yitunbulake-Qiemo section of G315 highway, which factually reflects the characteristics of the ecoenvironmental risk for the highway.

a2_org:
Xinjiang Institute of Ecology and Geography, CAS


abstract:
DUPLICATE of 359 The ecoenvironmental risk assessment system of highway, based on the Analytic Hierarchy Process and specialists’ ideas, is set up. To give prominence to the spatial attribute of each assessment index the weight values were determined by the magnitude of special range that was influenced by assessment index. By translating relative maps using GIS the influenced range of environmental factors, the area occupied, was gotten. The lengths impacted by disaster factors were measured by the route reconnaissance and design. The results of applying the assessment system to evaluate the ecoenvironmental risk assessment of G315 Yitunbulake-Qiemo section of Xinjiang shows that the ecoenvironmental risk indices of the road region, ERA are between 1.55~3.23. According to the heterogeneity of the ecoenvironmental vulnerability indices (Σxiwi) and disasters indices (Σyiwj) included in ERA, we used 4 risk ranks to assess the eight units of landscape ecology in the Yitunbulake-Qiemo section of G315 highway, which factually reflects the characteristics of the ecoenvironmental risk for the highway.


abstract_title:
Good Legislation does not ensure good Decision-Making – the case for formalized independent review of decisions

abstract:
The Endangered Wildlife Trust, a South African NGO, actively participates in EIA public processes regarding major developments in the region. However, the organization is increasingly disillusioned by the responses received from decision-makers, both during the IA processes as well as subsequent interactions following issuing of a Record of Decision (RoD). Citing a number of recent cases participated in, this presentation will look at examples of where the authorities have:
•	Accepted inadequate IA scoping reports and EIRs;
•	Ignored significant information presented or appeared unable to understand its implications;
•	Ignored legal requirements;
•	Undermined and negated the role and input of I&APs;
•	Sided with the proponent in both biased rationale for the proposed development and in responding to concerns raised by I&APs.

Together, the above have undermined public confidence in the ability and willingness of the relevant authorities to implement the very sound environmental legislation in South Africa, and are resulting in I&APs having to resort to litigation, including judicial review of decision-making processes.  A dire need exists for an independent authority to review decisions and improve the process of decision-making to provide optimal solutions for sustainable development.


abstract_title:
Pre-Screening?  Developing realistic approaches to the system-wide use of HIA

abstract:
The New South Wales HIA Project has progressively built capacity to undertake HIA across the state's health system and within government more broadly.   A major aspect of the current capacity building work involves “learning by doing” through supporting 19 sites to do HIAs.

These HIAs have highlighted the issue of when HIAs should be routinely undertaken by government agencies.  If HIA is to be successfully incorporated into government policy development and planning processes it is crucial that it involves a resource commitment commensurate to its perceived benefits.  The process of “learning by doing” has highlighted that even formal screening exercises that don't progress to HIAs require substantial amounts of time and resources.  If screening was  required on all government proposals it would quickly become unsustainable.  This has highlighted the need for a practical pre-screening process or tool that could be used across government to determine if a formal HIA screening exercise is required.

This presentation will:
* canvass the challenges governments face in institutionalising HIA, drawing on Australian and international experiences;
* put forward preliminary work on a pre-screening process, and
* highlight the possibilities a pre-screening step provides for HIA to complement other forms of impact assessment.


abstract_title:
EIA and SEA for off shore wind farms in the North Sea

abstract:
In the Netherlands about 1500 MW wind generation capacity has been established in the last 15 years. The opportunities for further expansion of the capacity on land are limited. The most suitable locations are already used and a growing number of inhabitants and NGOs oppose towards more sites on land because of negative landscape effects, noise and shade hindrance. Therefore ,the governmental policy goal is to establish 6000 MW off shore generation capacity before 2020 Currently several EIA procedures for individual offshore wind farms are into progress.

One of the problems encountered for the competent authority is that a sufficient framework for granting permits is lacking. For example, no information is available on the locations best suitable for establishing off shore wind farms. Moreover, information is lacking on cumulative effects of wind farms, for example for migrating birds. This becomes even more relevant as the Netherlands is not the only country along the North Sea which is planning to develop off shore wind farms. Belgium, England, Scotland, Germany, Denmark and Norway all have comparable plans. We feel it is important to perform an SEA on these cumulative effects and invite representatives from the North Sea countries to join the presentation.


abstract_title:
“Working Towards Quality Assurance in Impact Assessment : From a Voluntary to a Statutory Certification System for Environmental Assessment Practitioners in South Africa

abstract:
The environmental assessment field has grown rapidly in South Africa since impact assessment became a legal requirement in 1997.  Responding to the need for quality assurance in impact assessment, a voluntary system of certification of environmental assessment practitioners was established in 2001, endorsed by seventeen organizations.  To date, over seventy environmental assessment practitioners have been certified by an Interim Certification Board.

Amendment of the National Environmental Management Act in 2004 provided for the appointment of ‘registration authorities’ for environmental assessment practitioners, effectively enabling the establishment of a statutory certification system.  

In 2005, the national environmental department appointed the Interim Certification Board to run a country-wide consultative process on the establishment of a statutory registration authority.  This process, to be carried out in early 2006, is to reach broad consensus on:

•	The structure and characteristics of the registration authority;
•	The criteria and process used to evaluate applicants;
•	The code of conduct and ethics of certified environmental assessment practitioners.

The paper presents the outcome of the consultative process and summarises the way forward.  It also discusses the key legal and regulatory, ethical and competence issues associated with the establishment of a statutory registration authority for environmental assessment practitioners in South Africa.

a2_org:
Institute of Marine and Environmental Law, University of Cape Town

a4_org:
Centre for Environmental Management, University of  the Free State


add_info:
Withdrawn by author 14 February 2006. -jh


abstract_title:
Assessing the impact of trade impact assessments

abstract:
There are many challenges in integrating the results of impact assessments into trade policy making.  The paper examines the difficulties of trying to match a consultative and technical exercise conducted over time with sometimes fast moving trade negotiations, and the challenge of mainstreaming a sustainability mindset into trade ministries and policy makers.  On the basis of the experience accumulated from the European Union's sustainability impact assessment programme for WTO and regional trade agreements, the paper reviews the extent to which these difficulties have been overcome, and draws lessons for the further development of trade impact assessment
methodologies.


abstract_title:
Developing a policy-relevant framework to assess the social consequences of technological developments in agriculture

organization:
Tasmanian Institute of Agricultural Research

abstract:
The social consequences of new technologies need to be considered in policy decisions about technology development and governance. This requires a comprehensive approach to assessing technologies which is positioned to inform policy-making. By combining useful approaches from the related but independent fields of Social Impact Assessment, Technology Assessment and Policy Analysis, this early work-in-progress paper will consider whether an assessment framework and methodological approach for assessing the social consequences of new technologies is feasible.


abstract_title:
The Stakeholders involvement in the environmental Assessment of biodiversity resources: A focus on public participation in East Africa

abstract:
The Stakeholders involvement in the environmental Assessment of biodiversity resources: A focus on public participation in East Africa 

 J. J. Kitetu, Ph.D
Egerton University, P.O. Box 536, EGERTON, KENYA.
Tel. +2540721737 
jokitu@yahoo.com 



Key words- Stakeholder, environment, assessment, public, participation, biodiversity, sustainability

Abstract 
A skakeholder is an interested person or party of people  in EA of a development or environment. In this paper environmental assessment covers EIA, EA and SEA processes of biodiversity resources and or developments only. Public participation (PP) is process in which environmental impact assessor seeks the views of public when doing an EA of given development or environment. This paper focuses on Stakeholders in the EA process on biodiversity conservation and sustainability in East African with transboundary shared biodiversity. Biodiversity provide live, goods, services, and values to earth. The roles of stakeholders and the quantity and quality of PP in the EA process of biodiversity in conservation and sustainability are discussed. Illustrations are drawn from case studies of EIA, EA and SEA literature within East Africa. The output of this paper creates awareness, & educate stakeholders of EA to take active individual and public participatory approach in impact assessment of biodiversity and development.


abstract_title:
The impact of a non-legislative framework of SIA

abstract:
In Europe – and more specific Belgium - the environmental impact assessment (EIA) is getting more and more implemented for big and small (infrastructure) projects. There are sufficient guidelines and legislation. Next to that, the disciplines that are integrated in an EIA are getting more and more extensive: not only soil, air, vibrations, fauna & flora, etcetera are included, also disciplines such as spatial planning, transport and mobility, monuments & landscapes and health are included. This list may sound exhaustive, still often one theme stays unpronounciated and assessed, i.e. the social/sociological aspect that is connected with every project.

For the first time in Belgium, a SIA has been conducted next to an EIA: i.e. for the infrastructure project of the Masterplan of Mobility in Antwerp. In this paper the role and position of a non-legally based SIA next to an EIA will be discussed in the light of the experiences from this project. It is argued that there is need for a kind of really integrated Societal Impact Assessment where the environmental and social aspects are combined in order to achieve a high-quality impact assessment.


abstract_title:
IMPORTANCE OF SEA FOR MINING REGIONS – THE SERBIAN EXAMPLE

organization:
IAUS - Institute of Architecture and Urban&Spatial Planning of Serbia

abstract:
Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) represents a significant tool for environmental evaluation of plans and programmes. Inclusion of mandatory SEA in Serbian national legislation is at the same time important prerequisite for sinchronisation with European Union legislation.
The first part of the paper will concentrate on representing the system of SEA in Serbia, arrised as reflection of current geopolitical and environmental trends. It is based on newly adopted Law on SEA, whose main characteristics, adventages and lackages will be described.
Considering the economical importance of the mining regions, but also the damage to the surrounding environment, in the second part of this paper author will try to review the significance of implementing SEA in spatial planning of development of mining regions. Lignite basins in Serbia are extremely important from economical point of view, but at the same time they generate pollution and damage in all aspects of natural environment. The main question on which author will try to give an appropriate answer is: with new regulation on SEA – will it be possible to improve the environment and provide better quality of life for people living in mining regions?

add_info:
This work is supported by the Ministry of Science and Environmental portection of Serbia in the framework of research project TP-6501 "Methods for SEA in spatial planning of development of lignite basins"

a2_org:
IAUS - Institute of Architecture and Urban&Spatial Planning of Serbia


abstract_title:
Role of SEA in transitional countries: return of planning?

organization:
Kharkiv National Academy of Municipal economy

abstract:
The former Soviet Union Countries in Eastern Europe, Caucasus and Central Asia  are going through transition from centrally planned to open market-based economies. During this process they mainly abolished existed highly sectoralized and standardized system of economic planning but the alternative has not been sufficiently developed yet. Experience of Ukraine that in 2003 joined the Protocol on Strategic Environmental Assessment to the Espoo Convention shows that SEA may become a tool of planning system ‘rehabilitation’. Although SEA practice in the country is limited, evidences have been obtained, in the process of development of the  National Strategy for Introduction of SEA and Implementation of the UNECE SEA Protocol requirements under the workplan of the Third Meeting of the Parties to the Espoo Convention, that SEA process may by itself become a learning instrument to the participating organizations. If national expertise in planning is transformed and updated in order to meet the requirements of SEA Protocol by SEA capacity building process, not only SEA is started to be implemented, but also the concepts of ‘environmental planning’ and ‘planning for sustainability’ are introduced into national planning and prognosis system. Lessons leant may be applicable to other transitional countries implementing SEA Protocol requirements.


abstract_title:
Future strategies for addressing health in SEA

job:
Senior Lecturer in Environmental Management

organization:
InteREAM, School of Environmental Sciences

abstract:
IAIA held a special meeting on SEA in Prague in September 2005. At that meeting, the health section sought consensus on ways to address the consideration of health at strategic levels, whether this be through a focus on Health Impact Assessment or through other means.
There was consensus on the need to address human health within SEA and to build capacity: 
•	of the community in terms of land use/sectoral, environmental and health issues so that members of the public can better engage in the SEA process; 
•	in terms of the methods/knowledge used in the consideration of health and well-being within SEA; 
•	in terms of structural incompatibilities, ie state institutions may deliver heath protection and not promotion; and 
•	generally in all sectors to consider health, including within university curricula.
Short- medium- and long-term strategies were identified as priorities for future focus. These include more radical rethinking of institutional structures within the health sector, and are presented as the basis for stimulating wider discussion and developing agreed actions. The aim is to achieve the desired integration of human health into, and throughout, SEA and improve cross-sectoral understanding between health professionals, policy-makers, and other, IA practitioners.


abstract_title:
A national policy on health impact assessment in Lao PDR – a contribution towards sustainable development and poverty reduction

organization:
DBL-Institute for Health Research and Development

abstract:
Early 2003, Health Impact Assessment was introduced in the Lao People's Democratic Republic through the initiation of a comprehensive, intersectoral capacity building programme. Subsequent to specific training activities targeted at professional staff of the health, environment and other development sectors, an HIA taskforce was established within the Ministry of Health and HIA focal points were designated in the other relevant ministries. 

Following a national policy seminar in December 2004, line ministers endorsed a National Action Plan for the establishment of an HIA Policy Framework, initiating a review process of the contents of existing sectoral policies, legislation, decrees and regulations of relevance, harmonizing references to health in different policies and formulating new policy when necessary. 

A year later the process was completed and a National HIA Policy was approved by the Government, establishing that any major future development activity should undergo a proper HIA either as an independent pre-project activity or as an integrated element of already existing practices for EIA. This HIA Policy initiative will significantly reduce the transfer of hidden costs of development to the health sector and contribute considerably to disease prevention and health promotion, prerequisites for long-term sustainable development and poverty reduction in Laos.


organization:
Norwegian Institute for urban and regional research

abstract:
Increasingly we are in situations characterised by uncertainty and risk, indeed we live in what Ulrich Beck has called “risk society”. It is just as important to consider the unintended as well as the intended effects. Impact assessment and risk analyses are different ex ante techniques for assessing the consequences of today’s decisions on future development. The fundamental assumption is that increased knowledge leads to better, more informed and rational decisions.  This is linked to a positivistic view on knowledge and a technical – rational model for planning and decision making. However, this model has been heavily criticised, including the discrepancy between the result of such procedures and its effect on decision – making. 
This leads to a paradox, on the one hand there in an increasing awareness of the limitations of the model, and on the other hand there is an increasing need for such appraisals. In this paper the question of uncertainty in predictions and the effect on decision making is investigated in a case study of the first Norwegian wind mill park and its effect on white-tailed sea-eagle, a species for which Norway has a particular responsibility according to the Bern Convention.


abstract_title:
The Case for Making Environmental Impact Assessment Social Impact Assessment

organization:
Department of Geography, The University of Alabama

abstract:
Environmental impact assessment (EIA) as traditionally conceived tends to be cumbersome, expensive, and ineffective.  This is largely because impact assessors and the mandates under which they operate traditionally treat social impact assessment as a subset of EIA.  Results include inadequate coverage of social effects, a segmented assessment process in which disciplinary specialists work in isolation from one another to write unintelligible, disconnected documents, and hostile stakeholders who perceive that officials are ignoring their interests.  The author makes the case that all significant environmental impacts are ultimately social impacts and failure to recognize fully this fact continues to have a crippling effect not only on the effectiveness of the assessment process but also on environmental advocacy in general.  Adherence to the value that the environment has standing in its own right (an ethical stance held by this writer and most members of the environmental community) and broader worldviews of humans’ relationship to their environment are at the core of the problem.  Historical examples to illustrate this position include the conservation vs. preservation debate and contemporary issues surrounding biodiversity arguments.  The paper concludes with delineation of an integrated assessment model that translates biophysical outcomes of environmental alteration into human effects.


abstract_title:
Regulations and Guidelines for the Environmental Assessment of Road Projects in Lao PDR

organization:
Ministry of Communication Transport Post and Construction/DoR/Environmental and Social Division

more_authors:
1. Key Areas of Qualification
- Engineering in Civil and Environment.
- Planning, implementation and management of Environment 
  programs in connection with infrastructure   
  development.   
- Training and advocacy on environmental safeguards 
  programme to Provincial authorities’ government 
  administrative, management and technical staff.
- Planning, implementation and management of Access 
  Roads and Rural Development, community based Natural   
  Resource Management, and Integrated Conservation and 
  Development projects. 
2. Deegree
Master degree of engineering
Institution	:	Ehime University
Location	: 	Matsuyama, Japan
Major	Subject : 	Civil and Environmental Engineering

abstract:
Regulations and Guidelines for the Environmental Assessment of Road Projects in Laos. 
Laos is under developing country in 2020 synonymous with eradication of mass poverty. Therefore the National Development Objective could be formulated on infrastructures development. Activities of projects construction such as: Road or Dam operations may potentially affect the environment in a number of ways.  For example, environmental concerns can stem initially from poor design and planning, mobilization of construction crews, construction camp maintenance, storage, reservoir and handling of wastes and hazardous materials, location of borrow pits and quarry sites, associated earthworks, and drainage design etc. 
Norway is a developed country, leading the world in technology and sustainable environmental management and also natural resources preservation.  The standard of qualification of Stavanger Forum is very high to train researchers and engineers to play a leading role of impact assessment in the formulation long-terms/short terms core projects program such as environmental engineering, national development plan these would be applied for Laos. It should be noted that many of the developing a Role of Impact Assessment is normal sound engineering practice for the preservation and restoration of environment.


abstract_title:
Challenges of Environmental Impact Assessments in Developing Countries

abstract:
Topic; Environmental Impact Assessment Capacity building Needs and Challenges of further EIA Development in Uganda.

The purpose is to share experiences from a developing country with the hope other participants will provide their own experiences that would provide lessons for improvement.

Abstract: The implementation of EIA requirements started in Uganda in 1995. However, one of the major areas of weaknesses of the use and application of EIA still remains the fact that most developers have not yet internalized the real value of EIA as a planning tool and only do it to fulfill legal requirements. Furthermore, there is need for more training and EIA capacity building programs for staff of Central Government Ministries and Departments and also for the staff of the decentralized District local Governments and local councillors who are key decision makers at various levels.

It has also been recognized that EIA Practitioners involved in carrying out Environmental Impact Assessments have not received significant training in environmental assessments. This is evident in the quality of EIA produced by some of the Practitioners clearly pointing to a need for training. 

Participants are mainly practitioners and individuals working with environmental protection agencies.


abstract_title:
Application of Linear Programming in regional sustainability development assessment

organization:
Sino-Japan friendship environmental prection center,SEPA of China

abstract:
This paper introduces the application of a linear programming in a sustainable developing scheme for an industry zone. As for this linear programming, the maximal profit is the objective, while the resource, power and environmental purification capacity are constraint conditions. Suppose the relationships among industrial production capacity, which are linear that raw material requirement and the pollutants discharged . According to the linear programming method, 5 industriral procution chains are evaluated. As the result, one of them is cancelled , and the production capacity of others are limited. Therefore, an optimization scheme for the zone is acquired . This scheme can produce the  maxmal profit with the limited of resource, power and environmental purification capacity,

add_info:
The method is applied in a plan EIA of an industrial zone. Based on the sustainablity assessment of the industrial production chains, an optimized planning scheme with the products and capacity is put forward. Moreover, the water consumption, power usage, economical profit of per unit, and the maximum profict can be acquired, which can provide the basis for further analysis in the EIA report.


abstract_title:
EMP Implementation Issues, mainly in Water Supply & Sanitation (Yemen as Case Study)

organization:
Al-Ajyaal for Engineering and Consultancy Service

abstract:
Issues for implementing the proposed EMP of Water Utilities Programs in 

YEMEN       

(ABSTRACT):- 

Purpose:- enforcing practical implementation of the EMPs by both Governments & Donors in a systematic sustainable manner;

OUTCOMES:_  Relevant implementable EMP implementation, mainly in Developing Countries, such as Yemen.

CALL FOR Purpose:- I call for all EIA Practioners & Professionals to contribute in this Workshop with their concrete Case Studies & Recommendations



1.	Preamble  :-

The Government of Yemen, represented, by the Ministry of Water and Environment, adopted since 1997 a  water sub-sector Program( APL), and in in 2003 a  "Water Strategy and Investment Program"(2005-2009) were adopted. . 



-  the essence of  the EIA/EMP implementation(Follow-up Approach)of the Water sub-sector  in  to obtaining a sustainable water resources are:- 
  
 the relevant preferable option ( information ) is set. Out in a public document (the [ EMP] or the environmental management plan ) in form of statement ( EIS )


- Why in the ministry we need to enhance practically the SEA /EIA –UNIT. 


 -  Existing problems of Environmental issues and damages and relevant socio – economic & economic costs resulted 

-  Focusing or poverty – Enhance Linkages between environment & poverty for reaching to more realistic and implementable sustainable development partnership


abstract_title:
Seismic EIA in the Douala Estuary-Limbe Marine areas – a  tool  in  enhancing Environmental Management and planning

job:
Coordinator and Team Leader forr Douala Estuary and Lake Ossa wetland project

more_authors:
Suggested Speakers or organisers:
 Seismic EIA Experts or Petroleum Engineers involved in oil/gas exploration or production, Experts in environmental planning and management in coastal/marine areas, GIS experts with focus on Integrated Coastal Zone Management (ICZM) frameworks.

abstract:
Purpose:
To share the experiences and challenges of EIA for Marine Seismic Survey of Parcel MLHP5 and 6, phase 2-3,off Cameroon Coast. 

Desccription:
Execution of seismic study to identify geological formations below  the sea bed that could contain important reservoirs of natural gas and petroleum.
 
Issues:
In a recent Study entitled ‘the emergence of the Golf of Guinea in the global economy: perspectives and challenges’ the executive director of IMF in charge of African affairs, reveals that the geo-strategic interest of the region will receive more attention as concerns the energy strategies of the USA, Europe and Asia

  The mass death of stranded whales on the beaches in shallow water off the coast of Cameroon/Africa, confused by unfamiliar sounds, with their sense of hearing perhaps damaged is one example of the adverse environmental impact of military sonar or seismic surveys on marine life.

Structure:
Legislative challenges, effects on seismic sounds on marine animals and proposed mitigating measures.
 
Intended outcome:
panel  to propose recommendations for seismic EIA in the context of   environmental management and planning for coastal and marine areas experiencing   or still to experience gas or oil exploration and production in Africa.

add_info:
I am extending a call for speakers to discuss this topic


abstract_title:
Saving biodiversity in pastoral land: Earthwatch Institute’s Samburu Conservation Research Initiative, Kenya.

abstract:
In Kenya, dry lands constitute two-thirds of landmass.  One such area, the Samburu-Laikipia landscape is rich in cultural, wildlife and habitat diversities.  Biodiversity underpins two important industries here – pastoral economy and wildlife-based tourism.  Saving biodiversity in pastoral land presents the great challenge of balancing livestock productivity for a growing human population with conservation.  In 2003, Earthwatch developed the Samburu Conservation Research Initiative to (i) make a contribution towards the sustainability of the landscape through research, education and public engagement, and (ii) assess the costs and benefits of different land-use tenure systems for sustainable livelihoods and environment.  To achieve these, we (i) developed and support integrated research projects addressing conservation issues, (ii) built supportive communities, and (iii) provide educational opportunities.  Currently, six research projects are addressing three thematic areas: (a) Baseline information on (i) water resources, and (ii) critical wildlife habitats; (b) Endangered species conservation, focusing on Grevy’s zebra in (iii) protected areas, and (iv) pastoral land; (c) Applied research on (v) carnivore ecology and conflicts with livestock, and (vi) indigenous knowledge and medicinal plants studies. Our capacity building initiative has yielded training of 35 locals at different levels, and engages 22 Kenyan scientists.


abstract_title:
OIL AND GAS EXPLORATION, POVERTY AND ENVIRONMENTAL UNSUSTAINABILITY IN THE NIGER DELTA

abstract:
The Niger Delta region of Nigeria is a wetland of over 76,000 sq km and has the largest mangrove forest in Africa (11,134 sq km). Petroleum exploration is the mainstay of the country accounting for 95% of the country’s exports earnings. Notwithstanding the economic benefits, both social and environmental impacts are associated with oil exploration in the Niger Delta. The major occupations of the inhabitants are subsistence fishing and farming. These are threatened by oil exploration activities, which pollute the air, soil and water resulting in poor farm harvest and fish catch. Also, proceeds from oil exploration goes to the Federal and State governments excluding the host communities who are directly impacted by oil exploration activities. This among others resulted in poverty. Many of these communities lack basic amenities such potable water, electricity, sanitary facilities and hospitals and political power. This has led to social problems. Agitation for equitable distribution of resources has led to the emergence of violent youths involving in unwholesome activities such as vandalisation of oil installation, illegal bunkering of oil and hostage taking. The aim of this paper is to link oil exploration with environmental degradation causing poverty and conflicts in host communities.

suggested_topic:
Power, Poverty & Sustainability: Importance of Biodiversity


abstract_title:
INDICATORS OF WETLAND ACIDIFICATION AND THEIR RELEVANCE TO IMPACT ASSESSMENT

abstract:
The International Association for Impact Assessment (IAIA) awarded a research grant to study the indicators of wetland acidification and its relevance to impact assessment under the Capacity Building for Biodiversity and Impact Assessment (CBBIA) Small Grants Program in 2004. The findings of the research are presented in this paper. The study indeed confirmed the presence of both potential and actual acid sulphate soils (ASS) in the Niger Delta, which when disturbed during developments caused acidification with pH dropping to <4 in open streams and <2 at the backswamps. Indicators of ASS were found to include vegetation, water quality, hydrology and drainage patterns, microbial (Acidithiobacillus sp), landforms and soil/sediment/spoil. The global extents of the problem of acidification underscore the importance of the challenge and the need for concerted efforts for their management. Strategies for the control and management of ASS include recognition and avoidance, prevention of oxidation, neutralization, complete oxidation and leaching, and segregation and removal of pyrite. Because of the potentially devastating effects of acidification, it is recommended that acidification related -issues be taken on board early in the EIA process starting from EIA screening and scoping and be included in the Terms of Reference and work plans.


abstract_title:
EIA FOR DUMMIES – A WEB-BASED TOOLKIT FOR IMPROVING PUBLIC PARTICIPATION

abstract:
Considerable concerns are often raised about both the transparency of EIA processes and the understanding and related quality of participation by I&APs. In particular, I&APs are often barred from adequate participation by their lack of familiarity with, and understanding of the EIA process, their ignorance of their legal rights and the legal obligations of developers, their inability to access relevant information, and a cumulative uncoordinated and ineffective reactive approach to development planning. 

The Endangered Wildlife Trust (EWT), a leading South Africa environmental NGO, has and is repeatedly approached by I&APs seeking guidance on their rights and responsibilities and opportunities to participate in development planning processes. In response,the EWT is developing a practical, user-friendly, on-line ‘EIA Toolkit’ that provides clear outlines of key EIA processes and lends guidance to I&APs. 

The Toolkit differs substantially from other such tools which seem not to have addressed this public need.  The Toolkit is demand-driven in response to key, unsolicited public inquiries  and will  provide practical, step-by-step guides to rights, responsibilities and permissible actions of I&APs in order to facilitate public capacity building.   A draft of this EIA Toolkit will be presented for discussion.

add_info:
This Abstract is submitted as part of my application for the Capacity Building Stpend to attend IAIA 06; second Abstract also submitted for Governance theme, Abstrct no. 361


abstract_title:
Introducing the SEA-like approaches into the environmental assessment of master plans in the Russian Federation; the example of Kazan City Master Plan [pilot project]

abstract:
Due to the existing Environmental Assessment (EA) regulations in the Russia, all drafts of regional Spatial Planning (SP) documents, should be subject to State Environmental Review (SER). To successfully fulfill the SER procedure, it is required to conduct an Assessment of Environmental Impacts for an SP document, also referenced as OVOS. There is an evident trend towards the reform of the national EA system in this area, which may result in substantial changes, especially in the area of EA application of civil construction.
The main objective of the paper is to discuss the issues of the system of Master Plans as an example of SP document in Russia. It presents the challenges and benefits of application of SEA elements to the assessment of Kazan master plan within the TACIS project “Strengthening of local-planning in the Russian Federation through SEA” in combination with the official procedure of OVOS. The authors will provide a summary of outcomes of the EA of Kazan master plan, lessons learnt from the attempt of combination of SEA with the existing assessment system and problems posed by the current SER procedure.

a5_org:
Regional Environmental Centre for Central and Eastern Europe


abstract_title:
Transposition of the European SEA Directive and implications for English Local Transport Plans.

abstract:
This paper presents the findings from a study into how the SEA Directive has been transposed for English Local Transport Plans, focussing on a review of internal and external threats to a successful SEA.

The appraisal process that was in place for assessing the environmental implications of Local Transport Plans prior to the SEA Directive entering into force had limited influence on plan preparation. The requirement for taking SEA into account therefore presents an unprecedented opportunity for strengthening the influence of transport appraisal in England, and ultimately for improving the environmental outcome of Local Transport Plans. However, aspects of the institutional and regulatory context within which the SEA requirements for Local Transport Plans are being implemented represent potential threats to the successful implementation of this requirement. Some of these threats are within the control of individual authorities and SEA/ Local Transport Plan practitioners, whereas others are not.

This paper investigates ways to optimise the opportunities presented by the requirement to take SEA into account during plan preparation, whilst minimising the threats to successful implementation of this requirement. Using the English transport planning and appraisal system as a basis, the paper identifies issues that may be of relevance to other countries.

add_info:
Keywords:
Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA), English Local Transport Plans, Transposition of European Directive 2001/42/EC.

Suggested session:
SEA


abstract_title:
A practical example of tiering - linking SEA of different levels of transport and land use planning in Wales.

abstract:
The Welsh Assembly Government is currently undertaking a Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) for the emerging Wales Transport Strategy. The national transport strategy is due to be finalised in 2006, and will be implemented through four Regional Transport Plans. These are due in 2007 and will each require a separate SEA. The transport strategy is one of the national actions to arise from the Wales Spatial Plan, which was adopted in November 2004. This plan is currently under revision and will also be subject to an SEA, as will some of its individual components.

The nature and timing of these SEA activities presents a unique opportunity to develop a coherent approach that enables SEA to effectively support transport and land use planning activities in Wales. A coordinated approach to SEA is therefore being taken to avoid duplication of effort in activities such as setting objectives and indicators, baseline data collation and monitoring. This paper seeks to apply some of the tiering concepts considered by Jos Arts and Paul Tomlinson at IAIA Prague. It outlines a common framework that is being developed for the SEA activities in Wales, and provides a practical example of vertical and horizontal tiering across different planning sectors.

add_info:
Keywords:
Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA), Environmental Assessment of Plans and Programmes, Directive 2001/42/EC, Tiered SEA, Wales.


Suggested session:
SEA.


abstract:
THE ROLE OF STRATEGIC ASSESSMENT IN POVERTY REDUCTION AND BIODIVERSITY CONSERVATION WITH RESPECT TO REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT PLANNING IN TANZANIA: The Case of Kisarawe District 

Pugu /Kazimzumbwi Forests are located within Kisarawe District in the Coast Region of the United Republic of Tanzania. They are one of the biodiversity hotspots in the World with a variety of endangered, threatened and endemic species of flora and fauna. 
The forests have been decreasing at an alarming rate. The biodiversity loss is obviously worrying. One of the causes has been cutting down various species for charcoal making, timber extraction and poles. The main exploiters of the forests resources are the communities living around the forests. Charcoal making is primarily the main income earning activity. 

The study will assess sources of income for the households of the villages around the forests. An attempt will be made to subject the District Development Plan to Strategic Environmental Assessment and examine the plan and set options for sustainable development and biodiversity conservation.  

The paper intends to provide recommendations on future development options on empowering local communities to engage in alternative economic activities as a way of shifting from biodiversity destruction to earning sustainable incomes while minimizing biodiversity loss.


abstract_title:
Did the impact assessment matter at all?

abstract:
Did the Impact Assessment Matter at all?

An evaluation of impact assessments in Swedish municipal comprehensive plans made 1996-2002 is the base for this paper. The plans have been evaluated using a checklist with questions about process, content, environmental objectives, alternatives, sustainable development etc. To supplement the evaluation, practitioners who have performed or been responsible for such impact assessments have been interviewed. 
The results are discussed in this paper, with the perspective of effectiveness of the impact assessment. When changes to the law were introduced 1996 the hope was that the account of impact assessment would benefit sustainable development through comprehensive planning. 
Now, when new demands on SEA have been added to the law it is time to reflect on whether the vague demands for impact assessment really had any impact at all on comprehensive planning. And if so, in what way did the impact assessment have an influence on the plan?


abstract:
The poster presents Ramboll Natura's experiences with EIA/SEA Training Programmes as a tool for EIA/SEA capacity building in developing countries. The programmes have been conducted since 1998, and are financed by the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (Sida).

Ramboll Natura develops and implements:
- GLOBAL Training Programmes on EIA/SEA
- Bilateral Training Programmes for China (in collaboration with the Chinese State Environmental Protection Administration, SEPA)
- Regional Training Programmes for South Eastern Europe (in collaboration with the Regional Environmental Center for Central and Eastern Europe, REC)

The poster focuses on:
- Training Programmes as a tool for EIA/SEA Capacity Building (approaches, contents, participants, networking)
- Examples of post-training activities and results, internationally and in China.


abstract_title:
EIA and SEA Capacity Building in Developing Countries

abstract:
The poster presents Ramboll Natura's experiences from development cooperation within the natural resource sector and institutional capacity building, with focus on EIA and SEA capacity building in developing countries. Ramboll Natura carries out EIA and SEA capacity building both at the global, regional and local level. Services include: Development of EIA/SEA Guidelines; Legislation; Human Resource Development and Training; and support to the implementation of EIA/SEA, monitoring and auditing and review of EIAs. The poster will highlight the following examples of programmes and projects:
- Advanced International Training Programmes on EIA and SEA, since 1998, sponsored by the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (Sida) GLOBAL (for EIA/SEA professionals from Asia, Africa, Latin America and South Eastern Europe), REGIONAL for South Eastern Europe and BILATERAL for China;
- Vietnam: Strengthening Environmental Management and Land Adminitration (SEMLA) – Improved capacity at national, provincial and local levels to address pollution and other environmental issues and to provide efficient land administration services;
- Laos: Strengthening Environmental Management –Building of central and local institutional capacity, improvement of environmental data collection and management, and integration of environmental management in planning for sustainable development;
- Tanzania: District Development Programme (DDP) – Build the capacity of the local administrative structures.


abstract:
Phase 1B of the Lesotho Highlands Water Project (LHWP): a TIA case study 
Session 392: Transboundary Impact Assessment
The LHWP was developed to curb the projected increase in water demand in South Africa’s Gauteng Province while making water Lesotho’s only export commodity. The project promised to benefit grassroots people and boost economic development but instead was publicized for severe social harm, corruption and negative impacts on the environment. A full EIA was done that recognized transboundary impacts but did not consider such impacts in detail. An Instream Flow Requirement (IFR) study was done after Phase 1B of the LHWP had commenced and the altered flow of the Senqu-Orange River has negative impacts on the middle and lower Orange River and its riparian states.

•	transboundary impact on the environment and its users 
•	biodiversity threats
•	promotion of water borne diseases
•	effects of changes in geomorphology and hydrology of the river
•	aggravating water scarcity in the region
•	Orange River Mouth Ramsar site

Lessons learned

•	The role of political power in transboundary development projects 
•	Negative effects of hurried project implementation
•	The need for broader consultation during development 
•	Failure to adequately acknowledge transboundary impacts 
•	Negative effects


abstract_title:
A Newly Developed Structured Approach to Impact Management - The BP Way

abstract:
BP is keen to demonstrate that they recognise the importance of sensitive areas and that that recognition is embedded in the operational standards of the company. Over the past two years the company has undertaken an extensive review and update of its internal processes governing decisions around access to new areas, and its management of environmental risk and impact. 

A comprehensive impact management process has emerged. It is a full life-cycle process based on four fundamental principles: identify and understand impacts; consult with others; avoid impacts by design; and, reduce residual impacts. It builds on established good practice - updating, revising, clarifying, codifying and augmenting BP’s traditional approach.

Major new components include:

•	A front end screening assessment to categorise projects and determine the subsequent level of rigour which will govern all the activities on those projects, 
•	A structured and commitment based approach to consultation and disclosure,
•	A clear and transparent decision making process to deal with issues which go beyond BPs core activities.

The process has been consulted widely internally and externally with NGOs and SRIs. The company is confident that this new approach will support the delivery of environmental leadership, ensuring consistency, transparency and performance focused management.

a2_job:
Team Leader - Environmentally Sound Operations


abstract_title:
An Oil and Gas Industry Project Lifecycle Approach to Risk and Impact Management.

abstract:
The international community is demanding increasingly rigorous environmental and social performance of planned developments by international operators. It is recognised by the International Association of Oil & Gas Producers (OGP) that sharing of experience through ‘lessons-learned’ would provide a means to achieve consistency in the delivery of high quality environmental and social impact management processes.  

The OGP ESIA Integration in Projects Taskforce has twelve active company members. They have created an industry resource facilitating the attainment of a consistently high standard by all operators, aligned with international expectations.  The aim is to add both technical value and to facilitate interactions with stakeholders and third parties. Given the diversity of project specifics, company internal processes, local environmental sensitivities etc. the approach offers a high degree of flexibility in its application.  Environmental, Social, Health, Risk and Impact Management Process (E-shrimp) is a ‘Toolbox’ based on agreed ‘good practice’. There is a strong focus on value added by starting early and making use of the existing project decision making process. It maps key environmental and social management activities with project activities, defining deliverables and checklists at each project stage. This is seen to offer greater potential than a more rigid process.

a2_job:
Senior Environmental Advisor / Chair OGP ESIA Taskforce


abstract_title:
Implementation of the EU Bird and Habitat directive in EIA and SEA in The Netherlands

organization:
Netherlands Commission for Environmental Assessment

abstract:
Abstract IAIA 2006

Implementation of the EU Bird and Habitat directive in EIA and SEA in The Netherlands    


Arend J. Kolhoff 
Technical secretary
 
In fifty percent of all EIAs and nearly in all SEAs we are dealing with the application of the EU Bird and Habitat directive. Because the proposed project or plans which are subject to EIA or SEA affect areas protected by these directives. In that case we follow a fixed sequence of steps in the EIA and SEA to answer the central question: Will the expected impacts be significant? In case of significant impacts an activity is in principle not allowed despite the proposed activity is of national interest. In that case the loss of protected area should be compensated. 

The Netherlands Commission is responsible for scoping of all EIAs and SEAs in The Netherlands and therefore we have developed a procedure and some rules of thumb to deal with the prescribed EU procedure. In addition we have developed a methodology to deal with cumulative impacts in those protected areas. I will present our approach and experiences based upon practical EIA and SEA cases.


abstract:
Clearly interpretable, easily accessible information on the links between the built environment and health will support better decision making.  The Institute of Public Health in Ireland, an all-island organisation working to promote co-operation in public health, has produced a review paper on this subject.  The purpose of this review is to make explicit the multiple pathways through which the built environment may potentially affect health.  It will be of interest to planners, public health specialists and others working in these areas.  This presentation will highlight the causal pathways between the built environment and health and present the key findings from the research.


abstract_title:
A Windfall of Potential: an analysis of wind energy at a remote diamond mine in Northern Canada

abstract:
This paper presents a brief project history of the Snap Lake Diamond mine in Canada’s Northwest Territories, exploring various energy alternatives that were considered during the three year environmental assessment process (2001 to 2004).  

With recent shifts in non-renewable global energy demand, supply and pricing – a reevaluation of wind energy as an alternative or part contributor to the overall energy requirements of the Snap Lake Project (the Project) has been undertaken.

This initial reevaluation has been conducted using the most recent (2005) RETScreen International Wind Energy Project Model, made available by Natural Resources Canada.  Overall energy requirements and currently planned path forward to meet the requirements will be presented along with the results of the wind energy reevaluation.


abstract_title:
The Early Years: establishing the environmental management and monitoring programs following EIA at the Snap Lake Diamond mine in Northern Canada

abstract:
The Snap Lake Project (the Project) is a remote diamond mine currently under construction, with a 2007 commissioning target, in Canada’s Northwest Territories.  

The three year environmental assessment and permitting process (from 2001 to 2004) resulted in several federal and territorial regulatory instruments giving direction and timelines around the establishment of an extremely comprehensive and detailed suite of environmental management and monitoring programs in consultation with affected aboriginal communities.  

This paper describes some of the challenges and opportunities encountered thus far in the design and establishment of the environmental programs including the construction and monitoring of an artificial spawning reef for lake trout, planning for closure and reclamation and the ongoing involvement and consensus building of interveners from the environmental assessment process.


abstract_title:
Using the new Manual on SEA from EUTREN in finding better ways of working in regional transport planning.

abstract:
I would like to point out the most useful parts of the new SEA Manual of the EUTREN. There is an on going work in preparing for an effective and efficient application of SEA in coming regional tranpsort plans in Sweden. Previous applications has shown a lack of adaptation of the planning process. Planning with SEA must show that the product is useful for the following project planning. Project planning should refere to e g that more than one transport mode has been dealt with when the project was identified or born. The experience of using a "four step principle" is helping in generating also non-infrastructure alternatives.


abstract_title:
WITHDRAWN         APPLICATION OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT (EIA) AND STRATEGIC ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT IN ÇANAKKALE, TURKEY

abstract:
WITHDRAWN        The Turkish government enacted a basic law dealing with the principal provisions of Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) in 1993.  First, EIA procedures were published in an official gazette, 07/02/1993. The EIA procedure was amended on 16/12/2003. The General Director of Environmental Impact Assessment and Planning which is responsible for the control of environmental impacts is defined as that agency which has as its main duty to assist the Republic of Turkey Ministry of Environment and Forestry in undertaking the control of environmental impacts. 
The aim of this study is to evaluate the application of EIA and SEA in Canakkale City where one of the most important archeological, historical and natural parks of Turkey is located.  Compared with other Turkish cities, a great number of EIA reports have been prepared based on numerous projects within the border of Canakkale Province.  The totals of 312 EIA reports were prepared between 1993 and 2005 in Canakkale province.  The distribution of these reports based on sector as follows; Mining facilities 66%, food 17%, energy 5%, industry 3%, chemistry 3%, housing 3% and harbors 3%.


abstract_title:
Aligning Russian and Norwegian EIA processes – A prerequisite for joint environmental evaluation of Barents Sea offshore petroleum operations?

abstract:
International cooperation on petroleum operations in the Arctic requires joint understanding and insight in different approaches to impact assessment (IA). In the Barents Sea, Norway and Russia have many joint topics of interest. 
The study outlines the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) process implemented in Russian and Norwegian practise, illustrated by examples from Norwegian and Russian projects.
  
Based on the aligning, major consistencies and major differences between the two systems are presented, and suggestions for harmonisations are outlined. The suggested harmonisations are made on project specific,- co-operational-, communicational,- and research levels.

Each recommendation is combined with an evaluation of its contribution to: 
•	Improved projects, 
•	Reduced environmental impacts, 
•	Increased public participation and 
•	Improved Russian –Norwegian cooperation.


abstract_title:
Integrating IA Guidelines for the Oman Oil and Gas Sector: A Best Practice Process Based on Multi Stakeholder Consultation

abstract:
Petroleum Development Oman, operated by Shell, sought to revise its IA guidelines to fully integrate analysis and management of environment, health, and social impacts. Key aims were to increase IA efficiency and value to business, reduce cost, improve prediction, achieve more effective mitigations, and exploit opportunities for reducing poverty through targeted social investment.    Success required the input and support of government regulators, operations units, other oil and gas producers, HSE experts, Shell advisors, local IA contractors, civil society, and communities.  

A five-step process ensured continuous stakeholder participation.  A “pilot” IA was selected, in this case, evaluating a 300 km loop extension of an existing gas pipeline.  Choosing a project “addition” implicitly  compared the “old” approach of conducting separate IAs - in which many impacts were not foreseen - with the “new” IA stressing integration and community engagement.  Five steps in the total process were: (1) holding a broad stakeholder workshop yielding input and advice; (2) revising and integrating new IA guidelines; (3) testing the guidelines in the gas pipeline “pilot” IA and consulting local stakeholders; (4) convening a second stakeholder workshop to review the “pilot” experience and solicit further advice; (5) revision and final drafting of integrated IA guidelines and methodology.

add_info:
This paper could also be very appropriate for the Public Participation Stream and possibly Poverty Reduction and the MDGs


abstract_title:
Audit des pratiques de gestion environnemental au Cameroun: cas de Total Exploration et Production

job:
En fin de formation (Environnementaliste)

abstract:
The environmental audit carried out at the Total Exploration and Production Cameroon (TEPC) was an analysis of conformity on the environmental management practices in relation to ISO 14001 norms and the environmental policy of the enterprise. An evaluation of the most important environmental practices encountered such as environmental management, treatment of liquid waste, atmospheric emissions, and the management of chemical waste permitted us through the analysis of documents, direct observations and interviews to bring out the various lapses seen.The insufficiencies witnessed in the environmental management system of TEPC are due very much to aspects linked to planning and setting up of activities than to the functioning itself, and especially on the control of the whole production activities of pollutants. A great quantity of special industrial waste (56 %) is discharged directly into nature which often has negative impacts on biodiversity and surrounding population.There exist no procedure of reporting greenhouse gases and accidental leakages of petroleum products.The average content of petroleum products of 78.11mg/l in production waters is far above the target value of 40 mg/l prescribed on Total group scale and 29 mg/l on the World Bank scale. 

Key words. Audit, Conformity, ISO 14001


abstract_title:
EVALUATION OF THE SALUBRITY  OF BRIQUETERIE IN YAOUNDE-CAMEROON

more_authors:
Professor MONKIEDJE Adolphe is a professor of ecotoxycology in the departement of biology. He was the supervisor during my work, which was diling with Evaluation of the level of salubrity a spontaneous neighbourhood in Yaounde-Cameroon

abstract:
Yaounde is facing a spatial and demographic expansion since the 1980.Consequences are to name just few: proliferation of spontaneous houses, poor knowledge on land occupation, lack of roads…

The headquarter Briqueterie is one of the spontaneous neighbourhood of Yaounde. The actions to ameliorate the living conditions of the population have been initiated in this headquarter. On this view, we have carried out a study (November 2004 - January 2005) to point out the evaluation of the level of salubrity. 

The physico-chemical analysises have pointed out that Abiergue River is submitted to organic pollution essentially. This is due to house waste, dirty water and waste water. Abiergue revealed a large pollution from bacteria of waste contamination.
The epidemiological study has revealed the rate of malaria 40.12% in 316 patients neighbourhood dwellers aged from zero to five years. An analysis of this document proved that after the launching of the projet “precollet” of house waste. The rate of malaria is rolled back from and the rate of gastro-enteritis is rolled up.
This work points out that, this sanitary state is ameliorating a little bit but, much is to be done to manage dirty water, waste water and houses waste.

a2_add:
Po box 812 University of Yaoundé I  Yaoundé- Cameroun


abstract_title:
EA of Trade: Recent Activities and the Challenge of Follow-up

abstract:
EA of Trade: Recent Activities and the Challenge of Follow Up.

The Government of Canada's 2001 Framework for Conducting Environmental
Assessments of Trade Negotiations is being applied to multilateral, regional and bilateral trade negotiations and Foreign Investment Promotion and Protection Agreements. This presentation will provide an overview of recent work undertaken pursuant to the Framework, and the progress and challenges therein. Attention will be drawn to what happens after the assessment.  It is hoped that this will encourage a fulsome discussion on options for follow-up and monitoring after an ex ante assessment of a liberalization agreement is concluded.


abstract_title:
GOOD GOVERNANCE AND PUBLIC PARTICIPATION IN IMPACT ASSESSMENT OF PETROLEUM DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS IN NIGERIA: Addressing Hostage-Taking Thro. Poverty Eradication in & Sustainable Development  of the Delta Region.

organization:
CENTRE FOR ENERGY, PETROLEUM & MINERAL LAW & POLICY, CEPMLP, UNIVERSITY OF DUNDEE.

abstract:
The trio, political power (i. e. governance), poverty and sustainability may serve complementary roles in impact assessment of energy and major natural resources development. They are significant in the context of petroleum development in Nigeria. 

Nigerian governments and regulatory institutions are yet to administer the extraction of petroleum resources to achieve sustainable development, particularly the Millennium Development Goals. Failure to properly do so and thereby boost Corporate Social Responsibility, has given rise to oil-industrial crisis. Restive youth movements in the Delta region are taking expatriate personnel of the multinational oil Companies hostage.  

The Willink Commission of Enquiry Report described the Delta region as “poor, backward and marginalised”. As petroleum development continues to threaten sustainable development in the Delta region, other parts of Nigeria equally stand threatened by unsustainable socio-economic development actions and initiatives. 

Questions to be addressed include how good governance, based on true federalism and accountable democracy, may administer public participation in impact assessment of petroleum development to boost operations of multinational oil Companies to achieve environmental protection, poverty eradication, Community empowerment and sustainable development in the Delta resources producing region and other parts of Nigeria, including the security of supply to Nigeria’s petroleum-consumer nations.

add_info:
The industrial crisis in the Delta region associated with petroleum resources development is hinged on the resource control movement of the people of the region. This crisis, being generated by over-centralisation of the Nigerian federation and bad governance rooted in the mismanagement of the wealth being derived from the extraction of petroleum resources in the post-colonial era, is disrupting industrial peace and harmony associated with the resources development projects in the region. The crisis is endangering life and property, especially the lives of expatriates of the Multinational Oil Companies and their properties -namely the Joint Venture assets/investments of the Companies and the Federal Government in the region, as well as the security of supply of petroleum to Nigeria’s consumer-nations.


abstract_title:
Consideration of Climate Change for Arctic Indigenous Peoples in Health Impact Assessment

organization:
First Nations and Inuit Health Branch, Health Canada

abstract:
Climate change, advancing more rapidly in the Arctic than in most other regions of the world, combined with increasing economic and social pressures is creating new challenges for northern Indigenous Peoples.  Although they are resilient and adaptable, their way of life is intimately linked to their environment and changes are occurring so quickly they are challenging their ability to adapt.  Pressures include unpredictable weather patterns, declining sea ice, changes in permafrost, snow and ice, freezing rain, storm surges and increasing erosion in costal areas, sunburns, skin rashes, changes in biodiversity (plants and animals) and migration patterns, as well as insecure traditional food sources. All of these factors can have a tremendous impact on peoples’ health and culture.

The incorporation of climate change impacts in health impact assessment is therefore critically important.  In Canada, knowledge is being gathered through a number of initiatives including the Climate Impacts and Adaptation Research Network (C-CIARN). Because of these changes, we must continue to expand our understanding of the impacts so that appropriate interventions can be taken. Predicting the timing and extent of these changes will present challenges both to examination of biophysical health impacts and to the more holistic and population-based analyses.

a2_org:
Healthy Environments and Consumer Safety Branch, Health Canada

a3_org:
Université de Laval, Institut national de santé publique du Québec


abstract_title:
Modernizing EIA Implementation in the United States -- A Status Report

abstract:
The EIA process in the United States can and needs to be brought into the 21st Century.  The Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ) in April 2002 established the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) Task Force.  Composed of federal agency employees with diverse skills, expertise, and perspectives, it interviewed NEPA practitioners from federal agencies; reviewed public comments, literature, reports, and case studies; and spoke with individuals and representatives from state and local governments, tribes, interest groups and the public.  Comments were submitted by more than 700 respondents representing federal, state, and local governments, tribes, organizations, and individuals.

	In September 2003 the Task Force submitted its report to CEQ, with over fifty recommendations.  CEQ then sponsored four Regional NEPA Roundtables around the country to discuss the recommendations and solicit opinions from NEPA experts on what the priorities should be, recognizing that all cannot be addressed simultaneously. 

	In May 2005, the Chair of CEQ launched implementation with the selection of seventeen practical recommendations that had received broad support.  Workgroups chaired and staffed by federal agency volunteers were convened.  By the time of IAIA ‘06 preliminary results should be in and undergoing broad review before submission to the CEQ Chair for his action.

add_info:
The paper will discuss the recommendations selected and the preliminary (and, if available, final) results.  This paper may be useful to practitioners elsewhere who are looking at process improvements to better meet the needs of project proponents while protecting the environment, furthering stakeholder involvement, and achieving sustainability.


abstract_title:
Land claims and their contribution to biodiversity protection in Northern Canada

more_authors:
Heidi Klein, MES, Senior Environmental Planner and Project Principal with Gartner Lee has spent 20 years in environmental assessment related fields for both the public and private sectors.  Ms Klein’s experience  includes work in strategic assessment, socio-economic impact assessment, wildlife management, land use planning, public consultation, and group facilitation.  Ms. Klein has also written guidelines for cumulative effects assessment for federal government departments, and northern land claim boards.  She has also directed work related to guideline development for the role of traditional knowledge in environmental assessment and socio-economic impact assessment.  She specializes in environmental assessment training and assisting aboriginal organizations with their environmental assessment submissions.

abstract:
The Canadian government has negotiated arrangements or claims with its aboriginal people in its northern territories:  the Yukon, the Northwest Territories, and Nunavut.  Elements of these claims include measures for wildlife management through the use of co-management boards with aboriginal and government membership.  This paper will review the contribution to biodiversity that these boards may have.


abstract_title:
Socio-economic impact assessment mitigation for aboriginal peoples in Canada

abstract:
Interest in socio-economic impact assessment and mitigation has been growing in Canada.  This paper will review socio-economic impact assessment in two jurisdictions and the mitigation measures that have resulted for aboriginal peoples and aboriginal groups.


organization:
Sustainability Advocacy Research Education Action And Broadcasting Association

abstract:
The earthquake in Pakistan came as a shock to all but the fundamental reason for the tragedy remains the same. Deforestation, loss of top soil and improper land use and management led to a critical state of affairs which remains to this day. 
For all our technical knowhow, we cannot disregard the main causes of the tragedy--gravity and friction. 
This paper seeks to define the extent of deforestation and measures taken by communities and governments to address this issue in order to prevent further disasters and loss of human life.

add_info:
If selected, I would require funds to attend the event.


abstract_title:
Inuvialuit Involvement in Impact Assessment and Development in Canada’s Western Arctic

abstract:
The Inuvialuit of the Western Arctic achieved a land claim agreement with the Canadian government in 1984. The Inuvialuit Final Agreement (IFA) provided the Inuvialuit with certain rights, land and funding. The IFA established a process for environmental impact assessment. 

The Environmental Impact Screening Committee and the Environmental Impact Review Board – half of whose members are Inuvialuit and half are government appointees – assess the potential impacts of development projects in the Inuvialuit Settlement Region. Natural gas exploration in the Mackenzie River Delta in support of the Mackenzie Gas Project has emphasized the importance of Inuvialuit involvement in impact assessment of such projects in their traditional territory.

The Inuvialuit Development Corporation is a significant participant in the search for and development of natural gas reserves in the Settlement Region through joint-ventures with seismic exploration and drilling companies. The Corporation will, through the Aboriginal Pipeline Group, share a one-third interest in the Mackenzie Gas Project.

The active involvement of Inuvialuit companies in natural gas exploration and development, and participation by Inuvialuit in impact assessment of such development, is a current example of the effort to find a satisfactory balance between resource development and Inuvialuit traditional land use and harvesting practices.


abstract_title:
SEA, Environmental Information, and National Development Planning: Policy Linkages in the Kingdom of Bhutan

abstract:
Bhutan has one of the strongest SEA laws of any jurisdiction.  As with many developing countries, it also has a dominant 5-year national development planning process.  Over time, this planning process is evolving into a sustainable development plan/PRSP.  SEA thinking has the ability to substantially assist with mainstreaming of environmental issues into national development planning.  However, this can only occur is there is adequate provision for reliable environmental information.  This paper outlines the close linkages between SEA, national planning, and environmental information as they are progressing in the Kingdom of Bhutan.  It also aims to provide ideas and guidance for other developing countries that are in a similar situation.

Keywords: SEA, Bhutan, environmental information management, national development planning in Asia.


abstract_title:
Characteristics, Issues and Reforming Plans of the Korean Environmental Impact Assessment System

abstract:
After rapid economic growth in the 1970s and 80s, Korea has become a member of the OECD since 1996. In the developing years, the Korean EIA was introduced and enforced in the late 70s and the 90s, respectively. Over the years, through numerous trials and errors, the Korean EIA system has developed into a concept fitting into the Korean society. Both Basic Environmental Policy Act (2000) reflecting concepts of the SEA and EIA Act (2000) have been established and effectively operated as strong and broad regulation methods for preserving the environment led by the Ministry of Environment.  Recently, the public’s understanding of preserving the environment has been extremely increased.  As a result, the present EIA policy, which has evolved through the country’s developing years, needs fundamental alterations in operation system. To improve present EIA system, there are two major goals to be accomplished. The first one is to require more developers’ responsibility in order to prepare environmentally-friendly proposals. The second is to derive social agreement on development projects. In this study, the current problems in Korean EIA system, and the necessity of the improvement of its administrative structure for a new paradigm are discussed.


abstract_title:
New tools for effective leadership and education

abstract:
New tools for effective leadership and education.
     Economical, Ecological and Social.
        Education for Econolosocio's.

We are realizing more and more: there's a fast growing gap between Life and Business as Usual and aspects like environment, sustainability, safety environmental/energy costs and legislation.
A solution can be; make "new combinations" based upon a balance between basic needs and co-operation within geographical/natural boundaries.
A most important basic need with impacts on economical, ecological, social, cultural and political aspects is the availability for people to live and to work in their own trustful "environment" mainly based upon local products and services. 
Main items are"
-A definition of sustainability and the development of projectmanagement and co-operation as practical steps on our way forward to a sustainable future.
-The relation between energy and poverty in specific/local situations.
-Education as a new basic tool for coherence between social levels.
-A first step towards a meta-model bringing (sub)activities together.

Key words: Co-operation, intelligible, multipurpose, workable.

add_info:
The knowledge and experience is "born", developed and appleid in an industrial and international situation.
As a teacher, after my retirement, I became many chances for a further dissemination in others sectors, on other levels and especially between generations.


abstract_title:
Poverty Impact: Evidence of communication effectiveness

organization:
European Centre for Development Policy Management

abstract:
The development community has a strong emphasis on impact assessment for poverty eradication. The reason for this emphasis is to attain the Millennium Development Goals in 2015. The development community is looking for impact evidence of their programmes which contribute to achieving these goals.

As part of a worldwide initiative, the evidence of communication effectiveness in health, education, governance, livelihood/agriculture and growth is being examined. For the purposes of the project, communication encompasses dialogue, participatory consultation, stakeholders and technology, bringing in a traditional and new media channels. 

This process begins to find a balance between the supply of evidence and the demand for it.  A first round Delphic survey mapped the evidence available to policy makers and practitioners, by asking policy makers the following questions:

•	What types of information do you want?
•	In what form do you want it?
•	Who else might benefit from this information?
•	In what from would they want it?
•	Where do you currently access this type of information?
•	Who else might have it?

The results of the first phase survey will be presented to share knowledge about the role of communication and the evidence of its effectiveness in determining impact for improved governance.


abstract_title:
Strategic environmental assessment and landscape fragmentation

abstract:
The paper deals about the role of strategic environmental assessment in the regulation of landscape fragmentation in the Czech Republic. The basic problem is the fragmentation caused by transpot that includes two basic parts:  (a) maintaining non-fragmented areas large enough to ensure partial populations, (b) decreasing the barrier effect as a basis for migration between the partial populations. The methodology for assessment the both aspects is described. The principle is in defining unfragmented areas with traffic and establishing their quality (quantifying suitable biotops and quantifying risk of further fragmentation).  This unfragmented areas are compared with the prepared motorways and roads. The possibilities of SEA process are demonstrated in  two practical examples:(i) SEA for "Transport policy of the Czech Republic for 2006 - 2013" and (ii) SEA for "Land-use plan of region Karlovy Vary (CZ)". In both cases the results was evatuated as successful and Ministry of Environment recommended this methodology for futher applications.


abstract_title:
Environmental Economic Impact Assessment in China: Problems and Prospects

organization:
ECON Analysis & Department of Economics and Resource Management, Norwegian University of Life Sciences

more_authors:
Further authors:

7. John Magne Skjelvik, Researcher, ECON Analysis, Oslo
8. Hu Tao, Researcher, Policy Research Center for Environment and Economy of the State Environmental Protection Authority of China

abstract:
The use of economic valuation methods to assess significance of environmental impacts of projects and policies has grown considerably in recent years. However, economic valuation seems to have developed independently of regulations and practice of environmental impact assessment (EIA), despite its potential benefits to the EIA process. Economic valuation may be useful in judging significance of impacts, finding the right level of mitigation, comparing alternatives, and generally enabling a more objective analysis of tradeoffs. In China, a recent EIA law requires the use of economic analysis, but current practice lags behind regulations. This paper reports from research assessing the prospects and problems involved in introducing economic valuation into the EIA process in China. The study draws on international and Chinese research and best practice and conducts four case studies of economic valuation of environmental impacts based on the EIA reports of investment projects (a coal-fired power plant, a wastewater treatment plant, regional wastewater irrigation, and a road construction project). The case studies demonstrate the potential usefulness of economic valuation but also bring up several gaps and limitations to the introduction of economic valuation in EIA, many of which are likely be of relevance far beyond the Chinese context.

a2_org:
Institute of Environmental Economics, Renmin University

a3_org:
nstitute of Environmental Economics, Renmin University

a4_org:
College of Environmental Sciences, Peking University


abstract_title:
Snøhvit - a unique LNG-project in northern Norway.

abstract:
The Snøhvit LNG project includes offshore development in the Barents Sea, pipelines to shore, an onshore LNG plant and shipment of products.
The project  was approved by the Norwegian Parliament March 2002. The project is now under construction and production start is planned to 2007.
The project is unique in many ways. It will be the world`s norternmost LNG plant and the first LNG export facility in Europe and utilizes new technologies. It will i.e. be the first project in the world where CO2 from the wellstream is separated from the produced gas and reinjected.
The Snøhvit project represents a total investment near 10 billion am. dollars (50 - 60 billion NOK) The project has changed a serious declining trend in population development regionally, to a positive . Local economic activities are expanding. The whole attitude and setting in the Hammerfest region is changed and now far more enthusiastic.
A "Follow-up project"  where especially sociallocal and regional impacts are focused, has been initiated by Statoil in co-operation with the Municipality of Hammerfest and Finnmark County. Results from this project will be presented at the conference as well as some main features of the LNG-project.


abstract_title:
The Relationship between the EU EIA and SEA Directives

organization:
Collingwood Environmental Planning/Imperial College London

abstract:
This paper reports on a study carried out for the European Commission DG ENV during 2004/2005 to indentify and explore the potential areas of overlap between the EIA and SEA Directives among the EU 15 Member States.  The study included a wide ranging literature review, a questionnaire to Member State experts, academics, practitioners and NGOs, and interviews.  The study focused on a series of illustrative case study countries, which were examined in some depth in order to understand the range of speecific situations that might give rise to potential problems.

Key areas identified as likely to give rise to potential overlaps beteween the Directives were:-
- Large projects made up of sub-projects
- Project proposals that require the amendment of land use plans
- Plans and programmes which, when adopted or modified, set binding criteria for subsequent consent of projects
- Hierarchical linking between SEA and EIA.

Possible solutions to problems of overlap include the use of parallel procedures where SEA can operate in parallel to EIA; and joint procedures where both the requirements of the EIA and SEA Directives are met simultaneously.  A series of recommendations to the European Commision and Member States were made.

add_info:
PLEASE NOTE:  The suggested Topical Stream should be Environmental IA Law, policies and practice.  Unable to change it in update.


abstract_title:
The Water Framework Directive, Assessment, Participation, and  Protected Areas: What are the relationships?

abstract:
The Water Framework Directive (WFD) has significant interconnections and linkages with other EU legislation.  The focus of this study is on the similarities and overlaps between the WFD and the Environmental Assessment Directives (EIA and SEA), Public Participation Directive, and the Birds and Habitats Directives.  Work on the study began on the 9th January 2006 and is due to be completed by mid-July 2006.  

This study includes a close examination of the legal texts of the above Directives, followed by an emailed-based questionnaire survey of key stakeholders in the seven River Basin Districts (RBDs, under the WFD) in Ireland, to identify more specific issues of overlap for further detailed case study examination across the RBDs.  Up to four case studies will then be selected to provide illustrative cases (rather than representative) of where the WFD is most likely to interact with the other key Directives in Ireland, and to provide the basis of recommendations for policy makers and stakeholders on how to address potential problem areas arising out of these overlaps.


abstract_title:
One River, Two Pulp Mills, Conflicting Visions:  Can Cumulative Effects Analysis Help with Transboundary Issues?

abstract:
Two Europe-based multinationals are proposing to build and operate pulp mills on the banks of the Uruguay River in Uruguay.  The sites for the plants are within several kilometers of each other.  The river is the boundary with Argentina in that area.  Both companies approached the International Finance Corporation (IFC) – the private sector arm of the World Bank -- for financing.  The plants are a logical and planned outcome of policies for forest sector development put in place by Uruguay in the 1980’s, based on recommendations by multi- and bi-lateral development institutions, including the World Bank.  Environmental assessments (both Category A) for each project were disclosed.  Stakeholder expressions of concern, especially in Argentina, have been vociferous and emphatic.  One major issue is the impacts on local and regional tourism from the new industrial facilities.  IFC carried out a cumulative impact study (CIS), disclosed in draft form and consulted upon in both countries.  This paper summarizes the conclusions of the CIS and its role in assisting IFC and other financiers in their decision-making in this complex setting where potential cumulative effects in a transboundary setting meet conflicting visions for the development of their common, shared watershed.


abstract_title:
With Global Civil Society:  Whither Impact Assessment?

abstract:
The velvet revolutions of the late 1980’s haunt us still.  The end of the Cold War, attributed to multiple causes and various personalities, was notable at least for its largely pacific nature. The ultimate human confrontation between two competing blocks of nations each brandishing weapons of mutually assured destruction had a fairly peaceful resolution.  What in the world is going on?  And what does it portend for the future of impact assessment?  Mary Kaldor in a book entitled “Global Civil Society: An Answer to War” provides us one vision.  We are working through the re-definition of the nation state from a human violence propagating machine to one amongst multiple institutions governing human societies.  Another player is ‘global civil society.’  We are shifting from a hierarchical collection of competing nations with rigid and well-defined roles for all their members to a web of inter-related human groupings each with a different, but arguably, equally valid, relationship to the individual, to other human institutions, and to the ecosystems that support the whole fragile structure.  And this world is managed by laws not physical force.  As impact assessment approaches middle age, what is our role in this emerging future?


abstract_title:
Impacts of Region-Wide Urban Development on Biodiversity in Strategic Environmental Assessments (SEA)

organization:
Royal Institute of Technology, Dept of Land and Water Resources Engineering

abstract:
In urbanising regions, urban sprawl and infrastructure cause profound alterations of natural habitats. Moreover, initial decisions on urban expansion and major infrastructure investments are often made on a strategic level where the long-term development of an urban region is determined. For this type of decisions a strategic environmental assessment (SEA) can be prepared, which addresses the environmental impacts of a strategic decision. The project focuses on effective methods for biodiversity analysis on landscape and regional levels. Problems that are addressed concern habitat loss, fragmentation and degradation caused by large-scale urbanisation and infrastructure. A landscape ecological indicator system, based on requirements of sensitive species, is developed for measuring habitat quality and connectivity in the landscape for species tied to defined habitat types, in a quantitative and systematic way. The study area is situated in the Mälardalen region in Sweden. Two case studies are presented, one concerning a single, highly urbanised municipality and one concerning a larger area, involving four municipalities. The results will lead to conclusions on the ecological consequences of the plans on a landscape level, useful as decision support in SEA.


abstract_title:
Web-based Training for Health Impact Assessment

abstract:
Recent studies by the International Association for Impact Assessment (IAIA) show the “increasing importance of integrated environmental, social and health assessments” that will require multi-disciplinary teams and greater professional  expertise of health and social assessments.

The Health Impact Assessment (HIA) training available at Canada’s University Laval website is an introductory tool to assist decision-makers in assessing community vulnerability; determining cultural and social impacts; identifying corrective or adaptive solutions; and ensuring governments and communities are equipped to cope with negative health impacts and to maximize positive human health benefits created by development projects, programmes or policies.  It is hoped that this web-based guidance will encourage broader implementation of HIAs. 

The website introduces HIA through the following topics: what is HIA; why HIA matters; determinants of health; values of HIA; undertaking HIA; HIA practitioners; Aboriginals and HIA; HIA and other processes; conclusion and more information. It includes numerous illustrations, videos and links to scientific papers and other sites.  

The next phase of the web course currently being developed is on mining. It is aimed at health professionals and will draw examples from real-life assessments worldwide. It is expected to be online by the end of 2006.

a2_org:
Institut national de santé publique, Université de Laval

a3_org:
First Nations and Inuit Health Branch, Health Canada


abstract_title:
Biodiversity-Inclusive Screening Process for Ghana's EA System

street_add:
Starlets 91 Street, Ministries, Opposite GNA

abstract:
Biodiversity-Inclusive Screening System in Ghana 

The EPA-Ghana was established in 1994 with a mandate to oversee EIA implementation. The first step in the EA procedure is screening. The Screening tools in Ghana are the Schedules 1, 2 and 5 of the EA Regulations. A standard Screening Form - EA Form 1 facilitates the process of screening decision making by EPA 

Information submitted on the Form for screening a proposal often presents difficulties which could range from gross “under-statements” to inaccuracies. This affects validity of screening decisions, due mainly to the open-ended questions on the Form encouraging non-disclosure of vital information, resulting in wrong decisions. Officials of the EPA who make screening decisions also appear to have unlimited discretion that could easily be abused. This is due to the nature of the Screening Report Form that is in use. 

The main objectives of the study are three-fold:
To incorporate Schedule 5 of the Regulations to facilitate determination of “significance” in the screening process. 
To propose an improved screening system with leading questions, removing opportunity to down play or ignore issues.
To develop a checklist-Screening Report format eliminating the wide discretionary power of the EPA officials.


abstract_title:
State Ethnological Expertise or Ethno-Cultural Assessment? Theoretical problems and real practice. Case study of Russia.

abstract:
The paper presents the concept of ethno-cultural assessment in the Russia versus the concept of State Ethnological Review/Expertise and explains the difference between these two approaches to project appraisal. The necessity of ethno-cultural appraisal comes from the experience of some project implementation that has resulted in negative impacts on ethno-cultural environment and the public has demanded “Ethnological Expertise”. In response to these demands a draft law on “State Ethnological Expertise” was initiated. It is suggested that the State Ethnological Expertise be a State control service, which decides whether to support a project or to reject it. 
The conception of the law is being criticized. Taking into consideration the lack of clear definition of the terms “ethnicity” and “ethnos”, a misuse of such a law seems to be very possible. In contrast we suggest the concept of ethno-cultural assessment as a proponent’s instrument, which can help to improve a project by consideration of ethno-cultural aspects. The main components are the procedures of public participation, access to relevant information and quality control of documentation. Ethno-cultural assessment should be an integrative part of other types of assessments at various levels – SEA, ESIA\OVOS.


abstract_title:
IMPACT ASSESSEMENT IN WETLANDS MANAGEMENT AS SOLUTION TO POVERTY

abstract:
Whereas  several western countries are at the stage of the follow-up of the impact assessment (Morrisson and Al, 2005) , the idea of the feasibility of the impact assessment (environmental or social) in the realization of a project remains for several decision makers, a parameter which does not tally with economic realities of the developing countries. In Togo (West Africa), the wetlands and coastal zones are at the origin of several problems of management which generate environmental and socio-economic negative impacts. The unforeseen consequences of managements generate difficulties and accentuate the population economic and social situation already deplorable. We argue that an environmental and socio-economic impact assessment (even badly made) contributes to lay down the repercussions of managements and thus, decrease the recurring misery in those areas.   


Keywords : Togo; wetlands; coastal zones; impact assessment;


abstract_title:
Balancing the benefits of hydro-electric power generation against

abstract:
A major component of New Zealand’s energy supply comes from hydro-electric schemes and the single largest hydro-electric power station in New Zealand is the Manapouri station located at the bottom of the South Island. This station draws water from two mountain lakes and discharges the water into a fiord (Doubtful Sound). This freshwater augments catchment-derived freshwater to form a persistent surface low-salinity-layer. This surface layer plays a major role in controlling the ecological processes and biodiversity in the fiord. Doubtful Sound is part of New Zealand’s largest World Heritage listed site (Fiordland World Heritage National Park) and hence managing the freshwater inflow from the power station warrants considerable attention. The freshwater discharge was previously managed under an EIA approach but has now moved into more of a strategic/Adaptive Management Program approach that involves considerable stakeholder input, innovative monitoring approaches, and strategic environmental management. The costs and benefits of this transformation will be discussed in addition to the particular environmental issues surrounding this project.


abstract_title:
Indigenous reindeer herders knowledge  and assessment of  vulnerability to climate change.

abstract:
Nomadic reindeer herding  is the most extensive form of animal husbandry in the Euasian Arctic and sub-Arctic. Some 3 millions reindeer provide the basis of the livelihood  for more than 20 ethnic groups.Climate variability, climate change and societal/cultural transformation associated with globalization have been responsible for major changes in the environment and the cultures of indigenous peoples in the Arctic. Analyses of vulnerability is a procedure through which the potential impacts of these changes on human-environmental system are examined in relation to the systems resilience and its ability to adapt to change.We recognize that reindeer herders ability to adapt to change  is based on their indigenous knowledge embodied in the language, the institutions of herding, the action of individual herders, in herders experience and insightes. Reindeer herders understanding is based on generations of experience accumulated and conserved in herders specialised vocabular. Reindeer herders have to be able to read nature and predict situations that can disturb the welfare and reproduction of their herds. We attempt to use this kind of knowledge in partnership with reindeer herders, in analyses of vulnerability to change and together prepare the society for climate change through understanding.


abstract_title:
A Role for Environmental Assessment in the Atlantic Canada Coastal Zone: Linking Project Planning to Policy Implementation

abstract:
Policy issues reside in every project-specific environmental assessment.  In Atlantic Canada, countless decisions on the location, configuration and design of aquaculture operations,  small-craft harbours,  wastewater outfalls, and marine terminals are transforming the coastline.  While any given proposal is run through its planning paces,  it is not always clear that the policy implications are fully appreciated or communicated. 

Environmental assessment holds enormous promise for reconciling the purpose of a specific project, with visions of sustainability as defined by  public policy statements on climate change, biodiversity and clean-environment objectives for the coastal zone.  As a starting point, environmental assessment can help render the short- and long-term trade-offs explicit.

Application of environmental assessment processes to coastal projects in Atlantic Canada is examined in terms of public policy statements on climate change adaptation (e.g., preparing for the increased severity and frequency of storm surges), species at risk  (e.g., recovery of the endangered Piping Plover), and water quality (e.g., preventing bacteriological contamination).  The efforts made to understand, articulate and resolve conflicts between projects and policy statements are examined.  Options for  improving the utility of environmental assessment as a sustainability assurance tool in the coastal zone are presented.


abstract_title:
Environmental Assessment in Central America: development and perspectives.

job:
EIA and Environmental Management Coordinator

abstract:
On July 2002, a regional agreement was signed for the modernization, strengthening and harmonization of the national EIA systems in Central America (supported by CCAD and IUCN/Mesoamerica). Within this Agreement, bases were established to develop a Central American SEA and part of the tasks to be carried out on SEA, the following has been proposed: a) State social development plans, b) land management, and c) sector development plans of the countries and of the region. 

The Region encounters important challenges such as the Plan Puebla Panama Initiative, that proposes the development of a series of Regional Projects considered as strategic for the economic development of the Region. Bearing this in mind, the CCAD has been pushing forward the Environmental Safeguard Policies for CA, that include regional guidelines for Environmental Assessment (EIA and SEA) of projects, plans and programmes. 

With the overall implementation of the EA in Central America, and other linked management instruments, such as the cumulative effect assessment, the development of a more complete law scheme, and the environmental control of existing activities, it is expected to have in Central America, in short time, a series of required instruments to promote economic and social development and truly sustainable.


abstract_title:
Scenario-based Approaches in Strategic Environmental Assessments

abstract:
Strategic environmental assessment (SEA) often deals with public policy making problems characterised by, inter alia: broad spatial and temporal scales; complexity within and connectivity between problems; pervasive risk, uncertainty and ignorance; irreversible and cumulative impacts; and intense demands for increased community participation in both policy formulation and management. Conventional EIA-inspired SEA studies have often struggled to accommodate these challenging characteristics, and SEA professionals are exploring a range of new tools and approaches. Scenario methods are one such tool. Scenario-based approaches are centred on developing a set of stories about plausible futures and outcomes, in contrast to seeking to identify one fixed prediction on the most likely impacts. The objective of scenario-based approaches, as in many SEAs, is to stimulate debate and learning and to provide a basis for robust long-term planning and strategy-making. Scenario methodologies are well developed in the field of strategic management, and have been applied to a limited degree in environmental assessment. This paper reviews these emerging applications, proposes a typology of scenario methodologies, explores the potential for applying these methods in SEA and describes two recent SEA case studies that have piloted scenario-based approaches.


abstract_title:
Instituting Community Involvement: The Role of Social Impact Assessment (SIA) in Urban Regeneration in Hong Kong

organization:
Centre of Urban Planning and Environmental Management, The University of Hong Kong

abstract:
Recent international debates on concepts of sustainable development and “governance beyond government” have both highlighted the need to engage communities in the planning and development process. Parallel to these trends, objectives of social impact assessment (SIA) have evolved to include more participatory elements. This paper explores the role and functions of SIA in the case of urban regeneration in Hong Kong. It argues that in cities where a participatory plan-making process is underdeveloped, such as Hong Kong, the role of SIA is particularly important in extending beyond impact prediction to community engagement. The paper relates the attributes and process of SIA to the local governance and sustainability theories and contributes to international debates on how principles and concepts of sustainability can be put into practice at the local level. The paper concludes with a detailed framework which describes and explains how the “process” and “methodology” of impact assessment can contribute to promoting a participatory culture that nurtures sustainable development.


abstract_title:
Development and Implementation of Strategic Environmental Assessment(SEA) in Korea

abstract:
In Korea, similar to the Strategic Environmental Assessment(SEA), the Prior Environmental Review System(PERS) was adopted in 1993 as an important means towards the achievement of environmental conservation and sustainable development. In the PERS system, environmental impacts on major administrative plans and programs were reviewed in the early stage of decision-making process. However the results of the execution of PERS were insufficient to comply with its objective of establishing an organized system for optimal planning and development procedures. Meanwhile, the importance of the advanced precautionary environmental management policies including SEA has been emphasized continuously in Korea since 1990s. With recognition of these matters, the government amended "Framework Act on Environmental Policy" which is legal basis for the PERS to enhance the system. Through the amendment, the PERS has been consolidated toward achievement of the effectiveness of SEA implementation. In the new regulatory system, a guideline for the PERS implementation have been suggested as one of the major enhancement.  
	This paper reviews the followings;
-	Formation of PERS committee for the preparation of environmental statements, 
-	Function of the PERS committee
-	Considerations in making environmental statements


Key words : Strategic Environmental Assessment(SEA), Prior Environmental Review System(PERS), PERS Committee, Public involvemen

a6_job:
Dean of graduateschool of environmental study


abstract_title:
Sustainability assessment: A dialogue of the deaf or a social learning process?

organization:
Institute for Sustainability and Technology Policy, Murdoch University

abstract:
Western Australia has adopted a 'learning by doing' approach to implementing sustainability assessment processes for major infrastructure projects. Three very different sustainability assessments have now been conducted by the Western Australian Government, and the informal 'sustainability assessment learning community' that has developed around these experiences has been able to extract valuable lessons about effective process methodologies and institutional arrangements for sustainability assessment. But perhaps the most significant lessons has been the conclusion that a well-designed sustainability assessment process can itself be a vehicle for social and institutional learning. In this paper I will contrast two of the Western Australian case studies: the Gorgon gas development, which degenerated into a 'dialogue of the deaf'; and the South West Yarragadee Water Supply Development which provided spaces for social learning that led to a redefinition of the project itself; influenced the policy and institutional context within which the assessment was conducted; and challenged assumptions and beliefs with respect to the management of water, our most vital natural resource. I argue that such learning is the most valuable contribution to sustainability that assessment processes can make, not only inside organisations, but between organisations and across society as a whole.


abstract_title:
The Role of Environmental Assessment in enhancing Environmental Governance: Some Challenges and Opportunities with Reference to Tanzania.

abstract:
The idea of good governance has now evolved to embrace relationships between people, institutions, processes of doing things and how they are done, and exchange of idea not only in the administrative structures but also, and more importantly in the environmental field. Environmental governance is increasingly becoming an important aspect not only because of the increasing environmental degradation in the world, but more so because, efforts to address poverty and the quest to increase frontiers of developments have major implications on the environment. How the environment is managed is therefore very important. This article explores the various elements that form “good governance” such as transparency in decision-making, public participation, institutional set up, roles and mandates and commitments to institutional goals and legal frameworks with regard to the environmental management in Tanzania with specific focus on the role of environmental assessment in enhancing good governance. The article draws examples and lessons from case studies in which “adequate” public participation and democratic principles helped to influence decision making for development projects. It also discusses challenges in ensuring effective environmental governance in Tanzania following the enactment of the Environmental Management Act in 2004.


abstract_title:
Putting Policy into Practice: the Opportunities and Challenges of the Richtersveld Land Claim

abstract:
When diamonds were discovered along an 85km strip of coastal land in the Northern Cape Province in 1927, the South African government removed the Richtersveld community from the land without compensation.  Over the years, mining has left a legacy of unrehabilitated land, rendering the area unfit for any future beneficial use.  In 2003, the Constitutional Court ruled in favour of the Richtersveld community in its land restitution claim, but one of the outstanding issues still before the Court is the determination of the amount of compensation required to restore the land to its previous condition.  It was recognised that it would not be pragmatic to restore the entire area to a “pristine” condition, but a land use plan was required to guide the Court in its deliberations on the nature and extent of restoration required.

This paper examines how the community has been empowered to develop its own LUP based on their aspirations as well as the natural resources of the area.  The LUP has been developed within the broader context of regional planning initiatives and has tried to put into effect national policy imperatives regarding sustainable development, equitable access to resources, biodiversity conservation and socio-economic upliftment.


abstract_title:
Agenda Item ‘Impact Assessment’ – Discussion and Outcomes at the 8th Conference of the Parties to the Convention on Biological Diversity in Curitiba, Brazil

abstract:
The 8th Conference of the Parties (COP 8) to the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) takes place on March 20-31 in Curitiba, Brazil. Article 14 of the Convention calls on Contracting Parties to apply environmental impact assessment and strategic environmental assessment to proposals with potential significant adverse effects on biological diversity. 
A series of decisions have been adopted by the CBD on impact assessment, which, inter alia, request to develop guidelines for assisting Parties in incorporating biodiversity-related issues into EIA and SEA legislation and procedures. These guidelines have been adopted at COP 6 in 2002. COP 6 also requested the Executive Secretary to compile and disseminate experiences and case studies for further development und refinement of the guidelines. In collaboration with IAIA and the Netherlands Commission for Impact Assessment proposals for refined guidelines have been prepared, which shall be presented and adopted at the 8th meeting of the Parties in Curitiba.
From the viewpoint of a member of the Austrian EU presidency team, the presentation will focus on some of the key discussion points raised at COP 8 under Agenda Item ‘Impact Assessment’ and will present the discussions and final outcome.


abstract_title:
Sustainable (f)actors in transport planning

organization:
Transportation/EIA Centre, Ministry of Transport, Public Works & Water Management

abstract:
This poster presentation evaluates requirements and limitations of the SEA-Directive and the transport planning practice, in order to come to development of an approach that can help to achieve the objective provided in Article 1 of SEA-Directive: to promote sustainable development. The poster concludes that SEA could be an effective instrument to achieve sustainability if some, mostly methodological and organizational shortcomings, are overcome.
One of the important shortcomings is the current decision making process. Decision-making can be perceived as a game played by negotiating actors operating in informal and semi-formal forums. Those actors are related to each other because they are mutually dependent in order to reach their goals. This is why research goals of an SEA should respond to the demands of the involved actors and should not pretend to be all-embracing. In this way, actors are defining the research questions together, thus increasing the chances that all involved actors subscribe to the results of the research. To create support for a decision one needs to know which actors to involve in the decision making process. On the poster a method and a practical example is being presented.

a2_org:
Transportation/EIA Centre, Ministry of Transport, Public Works & Water Management


abstract_title:
WITHDRAWN  Establishment of fish farming at the indigenous Karajá-people in Brazil – possible impacts on environment, way of life and social structure

abstract:
WITHDRAWN    The indigenous Karajá people from Xambioá has been exposed to various strains since Brazil was colonized 400 years ago, both socially, economically, culturally and environmentally. Despite this, they have managed to keep up their culture in areas where most of the natural fauna and flora is maintained intact.  Due to loss of traditional territories and reduced stocks of fish and game, traditional way of life has been made difficult. Alternatives for livelihood are therefore needed.  Fishing is very important for their livelihood and fish is a part of their culture. In particular, pirarucu (Arapaima gigas)is a very important species to them. Unfortunately, the species is endangered and fishing is banned. Farming of pirarucu could, thus, be a good opportunity to strengthen their economy and degree of self-sufficiency. On the other hand, establishing a fish farming enterprise in, to a great extent non-monetary, indigenous society raises important fundamental questions regarding possible impacts on, among other things, environment, way of life and social structure. These possible impacts must be carefully considered against the benefits according to the indigenous people’s development aspirations and priorities. These issues will be discussed.


abstract_title:
Evaluation of the Austrian EIA-system in terms of quality

organization:
Federal Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, Environment and Water Management

abstract:
On behalf of the Austrian Federal Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, Environment and Water Management a study on the “Evaluation of the EIA-regime in terms of quality” was drawn up. A three steps methodology was used: first, all licensing procedures concluded according to the Federal Environmental Impact Assessment Act between July 1994 and October 2005 were evaluated statistically; secondly, structured interviews were held with representatives of competent authorities, applicants, planners, ombudsmen for the environment (this is a body specifically established by the federal government or a Land to ensure the protection of the environment in administrative procedures) and citizen groups. And finally, some procedures were analysed in detail in those areas that have been mentioned during the interviews as specialty of the EIA-regime, either as surplus value or as special challenge. 

The study was completed in February 2006 and will be available in German on internet (www.umweltnet.at/umweltverträglichkeitsprüfung).  

The purpose of the presentation is to give up-to-date information on the main outcomes of the study, discuss with other participants their experiences and learn from one another.


abstract_title:
WITHDRAWN     The Evaluation of Guidance for SEA Practitioners

abstract:
WITHDRAWN      Guidance on SEA has increased in conjunction with the development of SEA practice over the last few years.  With the limited practice of SEA, very little has been discussed and documented on the quality of SEA guidance.

This paper will describe the development of an analysis tool to evaluate SEA guidance.  The analysis tool will include some basic principles for factors which affect the quality of an information source.  These relate to the following:
•	context  - scope, audience, authority, reputation and how the guidance compares to other guidance
•	content - coverage, accuracy and currency of the information 
•	format - accessibility, design, layout and ease of use of the guidance.

The paper will also discuss the testing of the evaluation criteria on UK SEA guidance. The guidelines to be tested will be the SEA Directive guidelines, and recent issue specific and sector specific guidance on biodiversity and transport.  The paper will then compare the opinions of SEA practitioners to the results of the evaluations.  

Finally, the paper will recommend and provide reasons as to whether the analysis tool can be used to evaluate SEA guidelines in other countries.


organization:
Swedish EIA Centre, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU)

abstract:
One of the Swedish EIA characteristics is the extensive use of EIA. Another feature is the proponents’ responsibility for the EIA process. The influence of authorities in the process is limited. No evaluations have been made of neither the quality of EIAs nor the EIA-process in Sweden since the Council Directive on environmental assessment was implemented in Swedish legislation in the 1990’s. However, several studies (the Swedish National Audit Office 1996, the Board of Housing and Planning 2003, Emmelin & Lerman 2004) have indicated that there might be some problems with the EIA quality and the EIA-process in Sweden.

In order to investigate these possible problems a web-questionnaire was distributed by the Swedish EIA Centre in December 2005. The focus of the questionnaire was to investigate how proponents, consultants, decision-makers, reviewers and researchers consider the aim, function, quality and effective use of EIA. The questionnaire covered five areas i.e. aim, function, quality and actor relations. It was sent to approximately 1500 persons and 342 answers were received. The result of the questionnaire shows deficiencies in several areas, both concerning legislation and the application of the legislation as well as regarding competence and organisation matters.

a2_org:
Swedish EIA Centre, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU)


abstract_title:
Impact of waste-oils on the environment in Macedonia

abstract:
Waste-oils are harmful wastes that could provoke dangerous and lasting disturbance in the total quality of the environment. Uncontrolled waste-oils release causes the biggest threat to the quality of the waters and soils. Additionally, their burn off affects the quality of air.
In order to consider the extent of environmental pollution from the waste oils release in Macedonia following investigation were performed:

•	identification of fresh oil consumers: import-export data analysis; determination  of the waste-oil quantity according to the activity: comparison of the quantities of the  oil supplied with those of collected waste-oil  according to the activity
•	analysis of the waste-oils treatment.

The investigations performed documented that the production of waste-oils from different activities is 3 580 t/y. A part of these oils (31%) is burned off; 21% of waste-oils is released uncontrolled to the environment, 17% is kept stored, while 31% is given to other subjects.
Obtained data suggests the conclusion that the waste-oils are important land serious pollutant of the environment. Thus, in order to prevent the disturbance in the environmental quality, it is necessary to make the changes towards the organized collection, storing and appropriate waste-oils treatment.


abstract_title:
Strengthening Environmental Assessment Professional Capacity in Africa

abstract:
CLEAA implemented its 2nd successful round of the Professional Development Fellowship Programme in 2005. Eight Fellows from Eastern Africa region were selected through a competitive process to participate in a professional EIA teams working in various EA projects in Eastern and Southern Africa. The Fellowship covered cost of travel, lodging, meals, tuition (where applicable) and other associated expenses for a period of 1 to 3 months. During their placement, the fellows gained practical EIA experience in specialized fields of their choice e.g. water supply and development, housing projects, etc.

The rationale of the programme is that, there is inadequate African EIA capacity. While its true that African are being trained in EIA, relatively few of these professionals, even those considered trainers, have actually done EIA, and even fewer have managed a multi-displinary EIA team.

The programme’s objectives are to:
 Provide practical EIA training and experience for promising professionals
 Link these individuals to national, regional, and international EIA professional networks
 Strengthen regional EIA networks in Africa

This paper will give highlights on the success of this programme, which has been implemented both by Southern Africa Institute for Environmental Assessment (SAIEA), and Eastern Africa Association for Impact Assessment (EAAIA).


abstract_title:
Windfarms and Cultural Heritage along the Norwegian Coast

organization:
Norwegian Institute for Cultural Heritage Research

abstract:
The last years there are many energy entrepreneurs applying for licence to build windmill farms along the Norwegian coast. These are planned and conducted as single projects by private initiative. One of the problems connected to these single projects is lack of general plan and assessments for suitable and non suitable localization along the coast.

As some of the parks are planned and built a public discussion has started in Norway about the impact these parks have on people’s experience of landscape as well as cultural heritage monuments and environments. The national authorities in Norway, both for natural and cultural conservation, have recently made a statement which says that few big windmill farms are better than many small.

The paper discusses the need for holistic evaluation and strategic planning (SEA) connected to such projects, and methods for strategic planning concerning cultural heritage and landscape. It also presents some methods for environmental impact assessment (EIA) on project level illustrated by wind farm examples from Norway. The windmills impact on value and vulnerability of landscape and cultural heritage monuments will also be discussed.

a2_org:
Norwegian Institute for Cultural Heritage Research


abstract:
The proposed project is a 10,000 ha sugar plantation and mill in north-eastern Namibia. The aim is employment creation and sugar production. The government (proponent) commissioned a project-level EIA which identified the following key concerns: 

•	water use and the impact on the environment and downstream users 
•	pest control
•	surface and groundwater pollution 
•	land alienation 
•	conflicts with other land use 
•	social and health impacts associated with the influx of seasonal workers.


Concerns about soil suitability and financial viability resulted in the government being advised to consider doing an SEA rather than an EIA. 

The SEA:

•	investigated a variety of high value crops, especially those requiring less water and less vulnerable to pests; 
•	considered crops that can be harvested at different times, (providing permanent rather than seasonal labour); 
•	sought to  reduce opportunity costs and improve synergies between agriculture and other sectors; 
•	promoted the integration of existing farmers into the new projects.
•	highlighted which projects were likely to be sustainable.

Lessons learned

•	The importance of  flexibility and honest dialogue in an EIA. 
•	The SEA should have been commissioned at the start. 
•	It is possible to “upstream” a project-level EIA.


abstract_title:
The CBBIA project on impact assessment as a tool for regulating activities in and around protected areas for the benefit of biodiversity

abstract:
The Capacity Building in Biodiversity and Impact Assessment (CBBIA) IAIA project has developed a sub-project on impact assessment as a tool for regulating activities in and around protected areas for the benefit of biodiversity. This project aims to provide information and case studies in support of the CBD's decisions and guidance on impact assessment.  

The project has been carried out by supporting and coordinating the following five studies:

1. Preparation of environmental guidelines for development activities in protected areas in Nepal (IUCN Nepal).

2. Monitoring of impacts of infrastructure on biodiversity in Nam Ha National Protected Area Lao PDR (IUCN Lao PDR).

3. Development of biodiversity indicators as a tool for regulating development activities in and around protected areas and wetland regions in the Northwest Province of Cameroon (COMINSUD Cameroon).

4. Development of Environmental Assessment guidelines for identified sensitive areas in Ghana’s EA Legislative Instrument (Ghana EPA).

5. A procedure for evaluating impacts of infrastructure development in and around protected areas in Costa Rica (Mauricio Castro).

These studies have recently been completed and this presentation will describe key generic lessons for raising standards and capacity for impact assessments and the conservation of biodiversity in protected areas.


abstract_title:
Knowledge Sharing for Environmental Assessment

abstract:
At last year's IAIA SEA-conference, representatives of a number of SEA knowledge centres discussed their role in collecting and dissemination of knowledge about SEA. These centres should be willing to share knowledge with outsiders in a common language.

One of the outcomes of the session was the proposal (by some Asian countries in particular) to try to develop overviews on a country-by-country basis  with regard to:
1) SEA legislation;
2) SEA guidance;
3) (listing of) SEA reports;
4) key SEA case studies / lessons learned;
5) SEA training facilities.

Preferably this country overview should be made available on a special webpage. Web pages from different countries should be linked within a nodal system.

It was decided to organise a follow-up meeting at IAIA in Stavanger. This workshop allows countries to show the results achieved and discuss the problems they have come across. Other, new initiatives to contribute to knowledge sharing in the field of SEA or EIA can be presented as well.

The participants of the Prague session will be invited for this workshop. Those who are interested in the subject or would like to contribute new ways of knowledge sharing are most welcome to join.


abstract:
The poster presents a comparison of the systems for EIA and SEA in Latin America (5 countries), with special focus on e.g.:
- Stakeholder involvement and public participation;
- Recent trends;
- Success stories and important lessons learnt.

The authors of the poster are participants from Latin America in the Advanced International Training Programme on EIA, arranged by Ramboll Natura AB (April 24 - May 26, 2006) and financed by the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (Sida). Complete information on authors will be provided before February 28.


abstract_title:
Cultural heritage in environmental assessment: current practice and future developments in NW Europe

abstract:
The Planarch 2 project was a regional partnership that sought to examine and advance the protection and management of cultural heritage through its greater integration into spatial planning, including specific research on EIA. 

A series of parallel studies covered the Netherlands, 4 English counties, the Nord Pas de Calais area of France, the Flanders and Wallonia regions of Belgium and the Rhineland in Germany.  The various jurisdictions involved in the project have a common legislative framework, through the EU’s EIA Directive and through a series of international conventions on cultural heritage.  Despite this, practice was found to vary greatly in important respects, including the conduct of baseline studies and mitigation planning, while more general weaknesses were identified in the treatment of cultural landscapes, effects on the ‘setting’ of sites and in the weighting given to cultural heritage issues by decision-makers in comparison to other aspects of the environment.

The individual regional study results have been drawn together into a single synthesis report, and this paper will present key findings from the synthesis, highlighting issues from current practice and pointing the way to the future through ten ‘Guiding Principles’, intended to assist cultural heritage specialists and decision-makers.


abstract:
The poster presents a comparison of the systems for EIA and SEA in South Eastern Europe (4-6 countries), with special focus on e.g.:
- Stakeholder involvement and public participation;
- Recent trends;
- Success stories and important lessons learnt.

Authors of the poster will be the participants from South Eastern Europe in the Advanced International Training Programme on EIA, arranged by Ramboll Natura AB (April 24 - May 26, 2006) and financed by the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (Sida). Complete information on authors will be provided before February 28.


add_info:
Withdrawn by author 21 February 2006 per message to Fischer.


abstract:
The poster presents a comparison of the systems for EIA and SEA in Southern Africa (3-5 countries), with special focus on e.g.:
- Stakeholder involvement and public participation;
- Recent trends;
- Success stories and important lessons learnt.

Authors of the poster will be the participants from Southern Africa in the Advanced International Training Programme on EIA, arranged by Ramboll Natura AB (April 24 - May 26, 2006) and financed by the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (Sida). Complete information on authors will be provided before February 28.


abstract:
The poster presents a comparison of systems for EIA and SEA in Asia (3-6 countries), with special focus on e.g.:
- Stakeholder involvement and public participation;
- Recent trends;
- Success stories and important lessons learnt.

Authors of the poster will be 4-6 of the participants from Asia in the Advanced International Training Programme on EIA, arranged by Ramboll Natura AB (April 24 - May 26, 2006) and financed by the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (Sida). Complete information on authors will be provided before February 28.


abstract:
DUPLICATE of 457   The poster presents a comparison of systems for EIA and SEA in Asia (3-5 countries), with special focus on e.g.:
- Stakeholder involvement and public participation;
- Recent trends;
- Success stories and important lessons learnt.

Authors of the poster will be 4-6 of the participants from Asia in the Advanced International Training Programme on EIA, arranged by Ramboll Natura AB (April 24 - May 26, 2006) and financed by the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (Sida). Complete information on authors will be provided before February 28.


abstract:
The poster presents a comparison of systems for EIA and SEA in Africa (3-5 countries), with special focus on e.g.:
- Stakeholder involvement and public participation;
- Recent trends;
- Success stories and important lessons learnt.

Authors of the poster will be 3-6 of the participants from Africa in the Advanced International Training Programme on EIA, arranged by Ramboll Natura AB (April 24 - May 26, 2006) and financed by the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (Sida). Complete information on authors will be provided before February 28.


abstract_title:
Using quantitative risk assessment in environmental management

abstract:
Statoil has during the past decade developed a comprehensive set of quantitative risk assessment tools for environmental management of emissions to air and discharges to sea. These tools now cover emissions of NOX, SOX and VOC, discharges from offshore drilling and production of oil and gas to sea, discharges from land based facilities to sea and acute oil spills. These tools are presently used both for EIA purposes and operational management in the North Sea and are on the edge of extension to other geographical areas.

The presentation will outline the principles of these tools and case studies of discharges/emissions to single environmental compartments in addition to a case study comparing discharges/emissions to different environmental compartments


abstract_title:
The contribution of environmental assessment to sustainable development: Towards a richer empirical understanding

abstract:
This paper advances theory on the sustainability potentialities of environmental assessment based on an empirical investigation of its outcomes in three case studies.  The findings demonstrate that conventional theory substantially underestimates the multiplicity of mechanisms by which environmental assessment contributes to sustainable development.  The authors propose an integrative conceptualisation of environmental assessment’s sustainability potentialities comprised of four principal categories: learning, governance and development outcomes, and attitudinal and value changes.  It is concluded that, despite being essentially exploratory, the research has far-reaching implications, for it implies a radical reformulation of environmental assessment theory is required.


abstract:
A Presentation of Spatial planning group at Norwegian inst. for Cultural Heritage Research.

The group’s main objects are consultancy, developing methods and participation in different research projects both inland and abroad. Among their topics are Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) on cultural monuments and cultural environments, territorial development planning, landscape analytical tools, working with GIS applications and digital registers and maps.

The group is also taking part in a research project together with ENVIRA (The Environmental Research Alliance of Norway) on Environmental Impact Assessment to develop a value system that matches several disciplines. The project is also developing methods of how to work strategic with environmental value.

One of the developing projects is the Bamble project were the main issue is to design methods for municipal strategic spatial planning (SEA) and develop tools for decision making. Other important elements in the project are working by network (local and regional), identifying local identity and landscape structure, defining strategic cultural environments. The project is seen as relevant for the aims of the EU convention of landscape which Norway has ratified. One of the products from the project is an interactive web solution based on GIS.


abstract_title:
Development and Implementation of a Standardized Process for Environmental Social & Health Impact Assessment (ESHIA) at Chevron

abstract:
Chevron International Exploration and Production (CIEP) recently developed and deployed a standardized process for Environmental Social and Health Impact Assessment (ESHIA).  The Corporation is now adopting the CIEP ESHIA process for use by all Chevron operating companies.  The process covers all major capital, seismic, and exploration projects under Chevron operational control.  It includes a set of basic requirements to foster world-class ESHIA performance within CIEP, including (1) initiating ESHIA early in the project development cycle (e.g., evaluation of new business opportunities), (2) integration of ESHIA into business decision-making (e.g., determining project viability, alternative selection), (3) stakeholder engagement, and (4) development of robust management plans to ensure commitments made during the impact assessment are effectively carried over into construction and operations.  The process also establishes a series of roles and responsibilities to support implementation.  This paper describes the key features of the CIEP ESHIA process and best practices/lessons learned from its implementation by CIEP business units.


abstract_title:
A strategy for integrating Health Impact Assessment into a business/project organisation.

abstract:
A strategy for integrating Health Impact Assessment (HIA) into a business/project organisation

In the work of establishing a method for HIA in Statoil one of the main challenges was to identify key issues for how to succeed in integrating the HIA process into the business line. While methods for conducting a professional HIA is well understood and documented, ref. e.g. OGP guidelines, an effective recipe for integration it into company system was lacking. From the business’ point of view a HIA should support business and add value of value to the company/project. It should be cost effective and to the point, helping to identify, as early as possible, main risks regarding cost, reputation, health risks and ethics including possible showstoppers. The HIA-strategy that will be presented emphasizes the following key issues: 
-	communication with business line / project management
-	link to corporate social responsibility philosophy
-	link to the project execution model, defining specific requirements for the different project phases
-	integration into well known and understood processes, e.g. environmental/social impact assessment and health risk and safety assessments, avoiding double work
-	defining deliverables 
-	requirements to in-house competency


abstract_title:
Checklists for EIA and SEA Independent Quality Reviews

abstract:
This poster presents checklists for EIA and SEA independent quality reviews.  These checklists are to be used primarily by environmental NGOs.  The proposed checklists are the result of the author’s work on independent IA quality reviewing for environmental NGOs, during which some common weaknesses of IA reports and processes have been discovered.  They are designed in such a way to require very little previous knowledge on EIA or SEA by the users, and they focus more on the efficiency and transparency of the IA process, justification of decisions and follow-up guarantees, than on technical aspects.  

The checklists focus on the synchronisation between the PPP design and assessment processes, timing for consultation and public participation and proper documentation of feedback and its influence on (political) decisions.  They also focus on justification of decisions made in the assessment process itself, regarding data and methods used, significance ranking, alternatives and mitigation measures. 

The checklists insist on tight mitigation, management and monitoring provisions through incorporation of comprehensive environmental management plans (EMPs) in the draft IA report,with clear and precise cross-references with alternatives, impacts and mitigation measures in the IA report, detailed provisions on methods, timelines, funding, responsibilities and independent monitoring.

add_info:
Keywords:  IA quality review, transparency, public participation, monitoring.


abstract_title:
Scoping in EIA – still guiding assessment?

organization:
EIA Centre, SED, University of Manchester

abstract:
EIA is now assumed to operate according to agreed and accepted procedures and deliver input on environmental consequences to the decision-making process.  However, questions can still be raised.  Does practice comply with legislation? Are current requirements for mandatory or informal procedures are still justified? Does EIA deliver its presumed outputs? Has EIA changed over time to deliver different outcomes?  A study of scoping in England was undertaken for the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister to evaluate practice and comment on the contribution of scoping to EIA effectiveness. The study involved gathering data on scoping practice and obtaining the views of a wide range of stakeholders. Whilst scoping is firmly embedded in English EIA practice with most stakeholders engaging in the process, all the theoretical benefits of scoping are yet to be delivered in full. It is clear that the original purpose of scoping as a means to focus subsequent assessments by eliminating minor issues from the EIA is often lost and perhaps not clearly understood by all stakeholders. There needs to be a more universal recognition and understanding of the purpose of scoping and what it seeks to deliver within EIA and consensus on this by all stakeholders.


abstract_title:
WITHDRAWN      Strengthening Environmental Governance to achieve Sustainable Poverty Reduction Strategies.

organization:
KwaZulu-Natal Department of Agriculture & Environmental Affairs

abstract:
WITHDRAWN       The KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Government, South Africa, is in the process of developing a Provincial Growth and Development Strategy, seeking an integrated management approach to addressing challenges of poverty and unequal distribution of wealth and social services, HIV/AIDS, backlogs in social and economic infrastructure, and high unemployment levels. 

The Ministry of Environmental Affairs adopted a para-SEA approach to facilitate environmental integration in the strategy development process. This paper highlights some preliminary results of this process. It presents a proposed Environmental Governance Framework, addressing institutional aspects, which are aimed at strengthening environmental governance at levels of strategic decision-making. Recommendations are also made to address socio-political and methodological challenges in the application of IA and SEA in a poverty context.


abstract_title:
The role of SEA in a complex planning situation

organization:
Department of Urban and rural Planning, Swedish university of Agricultural Sciences Ultuna

abstract:
The paper discusses if and how Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) can support or facilitate planning and decision-making in complex planning situations. Basic data comes from a current Swedish case where SEA is used in parallel and partly overlaping planning processes. 
Kiruna is a small town in the very north, dependent on ore mine industry. It is exposed to hard climate conditions, surrounded of areas of interest to the natural environment, national infrastructure as well as nomads. The mine plans to excavate iron ore under the existing town. This means a third of built environment needs to be moved or rebuilt, together with the national railway and road. Several actors are involved in the plans. The local authority has a process of comprehensive plan expected to improve sustainable development and deliberative process. The plan is submitted to (strategic) environmental assessment according to EC directive 2001/42. Both National Road and Railway Administrations are presently planning relocation of road E10 and railway line, where use of SEA is required. Altogether these conditions give extreme complex context.
The results is expected to give new knowledge valuable for planning practice, education togehter with contribution to discussion of relation between SEA and spatial planning.

a2_org:
Department of Urban and rural Planning, Swedish university of Agricultural Sciences Ultuna


abstract_title:
FROM WASTE OF TIME TO USEFUL TOOL – CHANGED PERCEPTION OF SUSTAINABILITY APPRAISAL – an ecologist’s views

organization:
Norwegian University of Science and Technology

abstract:
FROM WASTE OF TIME TO USEFUL TOOL – CHANGED PERCEPTION OF SUSTAINABILITY APPRAISAL – an ecologist’s views

Ecologists have studied the effects of land use changes on biodiversity at landscape and population levels in mountains in Mid-Norway. Large-scale ecological changes have been revealed over a period of 50 years – from elevation of tree-line to declining grassland plant populations. With low expectations we entered the challenge of sustainability appraisal (SA) of our study site. This was a collaborative effort of ecologists, social scientists and stakeholders in the mountains. Step by step our perception of this effort changed and during the work it became evident that the SA process is a valuable tool for understanding and reflecting upon driving forces behind land use changes – and thus facilitating a more thorough understanding of causes for biodiversity changes, as well as for assessing measures for their conservation.  The SA tool also functioned as a means for the stakeholders for reflections on their possibilities for influencing the societal changes. The paper will illustrate this experience from the Jotunheimen mountains in Norway.


abstract_title:
WITHDRAWN    Using System- and Value engineering tools to improve impact assessment

abstract:
WITHDRAWN      The paper describes how the tools of System- and Value engineering from the field of construction management can be used in the field of impact assessment. The method translates requirements to an abstract design, giving an overview of the parts a project or program consists of. These can then be reviewed for their impacts on the several fields of impact investigation (environmental, economic, social, etc). The method has been tried in a case study on St. Eustatius (Netherlands Antilles), where an impact assessment of a golf resort (part of a program to make the island more self sustainable) was performed, investigating the economical, social and environmental effects that this project will have. The preliminary findings of the paper are that the method gives good traceability of requirements to the impact they have, will give a good breakdown of a project and the impacts it has and will indeed provide decision makers with one impact report on all effects instead of several different impact reports each on one effect. In theory it will also make it easy for experts from different fields to work together on a single document (Although this could not be tested in the case study).


organization:
Norwegian Institute for cultural heritage research

a2_org:
Norwegian Institute for cultural heritage research


abstract_title:
Drivers of and Response to Biodiversity Loss in China: Can impact assessment play a role in addressing this issue

abstract:
By any definition, China is one of the most biodiverse countries in the world. However, ripid economic growth, large population and insufficient managerial capacity are threathening the Chinese biodiversity conservation. The situation can be characterised by decades of massive pressure on biodiversity values as priority has been given to economic development. Even some recent attentions paid to ecological issues and biodiversity conservation has reduced the rate of decline, but has not yet reverse the situation. Here, by analyzing the status quo of biodiversity and the immmediate causes of biodiverstiy loss in China, the underlying drivers of biodiversity loss are investigated, and the shortfalls are summarized of the current biodiversity managment system. It is found that the most critical problem remain the present response is lack of effective tools to tackle the foundamental governance weakness in the current approach to biodiversity conservation. So, it is recommended in accordance with the new China EIA law, the biodiversity conservation should be integrated into socio-economic planning and poverty alleviation initiatives by means of biodiversity impact assessment, which is now in a much need of technical methods and successful experience.


abstract_title:
Three models of potential innovative collaboration in SEA?

organization:
Graduate School of Environmental Studies

add_contd:
Level 6, Graham Hills Building, 50 Richmond Street

abstract:
Groups of individuals working together have more potential for generating innovation than people working in isolation. This paper discusses the possibility of three different models of potential innovative SEA practice: Peer SEA Review, Shared SEA Team, and SEA Team Swap. A key assumption is that these models might spring up partially prompted from the lack of resources: ‘necessity is the mother of all invention’.  Peer SEA review is when two (or more) responsible authorities peer review the SEA outputs of each other. The shared SEA team, on the other hand, is when responsible authorities can only spare one member of staff to do the SEA work but ideally an SEA team is needed. In a shared SEA team model each participating responsible authority provides one or more members of staff to the SEA team. The idea of SEA team swap is when responsible authorities swap SEA teams in order to keep independence of the strategic decision making process. The paper concludes with examples of the potential application of these three models (e.g. the SEA team swap has been suggested to be applied between two local authorities in England).


abstract_title:
Impact Assesment of Energy and Climate Crisis of the Past

organization:
IDAD - Instituto do Ambiente e Desenvolvimento

abstract:
At the dawn of the 21st century, humankind faces two major challenges: how to adapt to climate change and the large diversity of its direct and indirect effects, and how to react to the paradigmatic shift, that will happen in the timescale of a generation, caused by the inevitable scarcity of fossil fuels.

Societies and individuals have the tendency to see themselves as pioneers of history and forget that past generations lived similar challenges either with or without success. In the former case, history shows that almost in every case the end could have been predicted, and wise actions might have prevented collapse.

A possible approach to the study of mitigation and adaptation to climate and energy crisis is based in the comparative history of the past. It consists of research in archaeology, anthropology and history that examines the responses of earlier societies to climate variability and to other environmental factors. Methodologies developed for impact assessment give a positive contribution to this research.

Efforts to understand past impacts and cultural responses to large and persistent climate and energy supply forcings may prove instructive for assessing modern societal preparedness for a changing and uncertain future.


abstract_title:
Power, poverty and sustainability: the role of environmental NGOs and voluntary associations in environmental litigation in South Africa

abstract:
With the advent of the Constitution of South Africa Act  No 108 of 1996, the South African environmental legal regime underwent a paradigm shift. Much new and progressive environmental legislation has been enacted since then, which gives environmental non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and voluntary associations  rights and powers they did not have before.

However, in spite of this, environmental NGOs and voluntary associations still experience  many difficulties. One of these is the overwhelming proliferation of environmental disputes which arise, linked to the lack of access to funding and the resultant lack of access to environmental legal expertise.     

This paper will use case studies to illustrate the type of legal battles which environmental  NGOs currently have to wage, such as objecting to proposed new developments where the relevant government authorities have granted the required permits, either without considering the environmental NGO viewpoint, or issuing the permits in the face of objections made by the relevant NGOs. An brief analysis will be made of the  legislation on which the case studies were based, followed by an outline of the case itself, and the relevant stakeholders’ positions. The paper will conclude with lessons learned from the case studies.


abstract_title:
The Langeled Project - Using the EIA as a basis for paying compensation to fishermen

abstract:
The Langeled Project, which is organised as a joint project between Norsk Hydro (development operator) and Statoil (project execution), includes the construction of a new 44” pipeline for transporting gas from the Norwegian continental shelf to UK. The southern part of the pipeline from Sleipner on the Norwegian continental shelf to Easington in Yorkshire was installed in 2005. Prior to that an EIA process was carried out, including preparation of a separate ES for the marine pipeline for UK waters. The landfall area at the Holderness coast is an important area for shellfisheries, particularly lobster. The EIA concluded that the fisheries would be disrupted in the construction corridor during construction, but no significant impact on the lobster population and no long term impacts were foreseen. Local fishermen on the other hand claimed that the project would cause significant damage to the fisheries both during and after construction.. Monitoring during and after construction has confirmed the predictions in the EIA, and thus also supported the stand taken by the project to limit a compensation offer to the fishermen to the effects of establishment of an exclusion zone during construction.


abstract_title:
TIERING SEA AND PROJECT EIA: LESSONS FROM HIGHWAY PLANNING IN SÃO PAULO, BRAZIL

abstract:
Constructing highways in dense urban areas is always a challenge. In São Paulo Metropolitan Region, heavy truck traffic contribute to clog streets and expressways alike. As part of the traffic neither originate nor head to the region, a peripheral highway has been proposed to reduce traffic problems. This project, called Rodoanel, encompasses a 6 to 8 lane expressway  175 km long linking major highways radiating from São Paulo.

The agency in charge, Dersa, filed a first environmental impact statement, considered as insufficient by the State Department of Environmental Impact Assessment. Thus, Dersa commissioned a strategic environmental assessment of a revamped project, called Rodoanel Program.

This paper discusses the decision-making implications of such as change, critically reviews the SEA report and elaborates on the shortcomings of a second EIS prepared after the SEA report and based on its major findings and recommendations. Authors argue that, far from featuring a genuine SEA process, Rodoanel SEA was merely intended to facilitate project approval, and failed to satisfactorily take account of significant strategic issues. Among these, the highway potential effect of inducing urban sprawling over water protection zones was the most critical issue considered in the environmental decision-making processes.


abstract_title:
Biodiversity and Trade in the Agriculture Sector: challenges of integrated assessment

abstract:
Impacts on biodiversity associated with global trade are significant but complex. Advice on assessment of biodiversity impacts is required to support trade negotiations and reduce risks to areas of high biodiversity importance and for those who depend on it for their livelihoods. 

Agricultural trade policies warrant special attention in the context of biodiversity conservation: loss of habitat and ecosystems to agricultural expansion is a major driver for biodiversity loss worldwide, so changes in land use or its intensity associated with trade policy change can have major consequences. There is growing demand for biodiversity indicators which could be used to appraise impacts of trade and trade-agreements in the agriculture sector and for 

This paper reports on progress in the development of integrated assessment frameworks to enhance inclusion of biodiversity considerations in assessment of trade-related policies.  It draws on results of work being carried out by the UNEP Economics and Trade Branch (UNEP-ETB) on a four-year EC-funded project which aims to support the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) by building capacities in developing countries for assessing, designing and implementing policies that maximise development gains from trade-related policies in the agriculture sector, while minimizing impacts on biodiversity.


abstract_title:
Capacity building for Impact Assessment in Mongolia

abstract:
Steppe Forward Programme, a co-operation between the National University of Mongolia  and Zoological Society of London has been operating within Mongolia with the aim of training conservationists for Mongolia’s future.

The Programme has identified a number of shortcomings in the application of impact assessment in Mongolia. Problems arise from a lack of quality control and this is exacerbated by the scarcity of public consultation and the fact that Environmental Statements are never made public.

The Programme has recently won the backing of the Mongolian Ministry of Nature and Environment (MNE) and a World Bank Netherlands Trust grant to develop a training course for environmental consultants in Mongolia. The aim is to:
•	Increase professionalism and ethics amongst Mongolian consultants;
•	Provide a forum in which consultants can discuss common problems and ways forward;
•	Use the initiative to develop a self regulating body (Mongolian Association of Environmental Consultants); and
•	Encourage the MNE to run the course on an annual basis.

The first course is due to run in the last two weeks of March (2006) and the Session will provide a timely setting in which to present the progress of this initiative.


more_authors:
CBBIA participants may contribute to this presentation and should all be acknowledged for their dedication and hard work.

abstract:
The Capacity Building in Biodiversity in Impact Assessment (CBBIA) project is a three-year project managed by the International Association for Impact Assessment (IAIA) and funded by the Netherlands government.  The CBBIA project aims to integrate biodiversity conservation with impact assessment and develop capacity among stakeholders in developing countries.

Regional workplans are underway in Southern Africa; Central/ South America; South/SE Asia and for Small Island States.  

CBBIA has also funded several smaller projects throughout the world and has supported people to attend training on biodiversity and impact assessment. 

Some of the results of the project will be set out in this presentation. CBBIA participants will provide more detail in following presentations in the same session.


abstract_title:
Capacity Building for Biodiversity Inclusive Impact Assessment

abstract:
This poster sets out progress and highlights from IAIA's Capacity Building for Biodiversity and Impact Assessment Project, which is funded by the Dutch Government.

These include results of situation or needs assessments in the Southern African and South/South East Asian Regions as well as feedback from some smaller projects. 

Key requirements for biodiversity inclusive impact assessment which have been confirmed by CBBIA include:
1. The need to understand how decision makers understand and use biodiversity information in order to influence their decisions
2. The need for an outcome driven process with clear biodiversity goals
3. The need for an ecosystem approach in which biodiversity values and the dependencies of people on biodiversity are clearly recognised and accounted for
4. The need for further capacity at all levels of planning and assessment, but in particular in environmental economics

Most of all CBBIA has proved that small amounts of funding can achieve a lot if they are invested in well defined projects addressing a clear need.


abstract_title:
Sustainability Assessment: Lessons from the EU BioScene Project

job:
Associate / Reader in Environmental Assessment

organization:
Collingwood Environmental Planning / Imperial College London

abstract:
BioScene (Scenarios for Reconciling Biodiversity Conservation with Declining Agriculture Use in Mountain Areas in Europe) was a three-year EU 5FP funded research project (2002-2005) that analysed the biodiversity processes and outcomes of different scenarios of agri-environmental change in six countries (France, Greece, Norway, Slovakia, Switzerland and the United Kingdom).   The project included the development and application of a tailor-made sustainability assessment (SA) methodology.  
 

Each study area had a multi-disciplinary team, including ecologists and socio-economic experts, which sought to develop a comprehensive understanding of the drivers for change and their implications for sustainability. A sustainability assessment (SA) team (from the UK and Portugal), independent of any study area, developed and oversaw the application of the SA methodology, assisting national teams and developing a cross-country understanding of sustainability.  This paper reports on the conclusions of the Bioscene project with respect to the application of SA, including the results of the SAs in the study areas, and the attitudes and expectations of stakeholders. The paper reflects on the experience of working in what was variously a multidisciplinary, interdisciplinary and trans-disciplinary environment, and the role SA can play in helping to facilitate interdisciplinary working.

a2_org:
Department of Civil Engineering and Architecture Instituto Superior Técnico (IST)

a3_org:
Centre of Urban and Regional Systems (CESUR) Instituto Superior Técnico

a4_org:
European Programmes & Training Department  RSPB


more_authors:
Britt Kramvig is a sosial anthropologist working at Norut Research Center at the University of Tromsø

abstract:
The paper explores nature based practices in a saami coastal community, which formly have been described as ”loosing all the characteristics of a saami heritage”. However, if we loo into practises in relations to nature this hypothesis can be challenged. It will be argued that nature are not looked upon as different to culture, whereby flow of substance recreate peoples feeling of control and connectedness from which meaning and harmony in everyday life can be drawn


abstract_title:
From environmental observation to action?

abstract:
EIA has become an integral part of most infrastructure feasibility studies, a great improvement to the situation only 25 years ago, when environmental considerations were either ignored completely, or considered less importance than the “development goals”. This positive development has, in large parts, come about thanks to lobbying by environmental NGOs. The tools and procedures for EIA have also developed considerably, largely as a result of the increased pressure for high-quality assessments.
However, some fundamental issues are still not addressed satisfactorily in many EIAs. Examples: what are “acceptable impacts”, and how do we choose the value basis, the context of the assessment? We argue that we are no closer to satisfactory answers to these questions than we were 25 years ago, and discuss this based on a few power-sector projects we have been involved in.
- Should the EIA practitioner form and communicate his/her clear stated opinion on the project under assessment?
- What value should be the basis on which to judge environmental acceptance – those of the financiers, the NGOs or the on-the-ground stakeholders?
- How does the precautionary principle and concepts like “no net loss” relate to a serious poverty-alleviation focus in the power sector?


abstract_title:
Strategic Environmental Assessment of the New Forest Bill in Kenya

abstract:
Kenya has recently adopted a new Forest Bill to promote growth and reduce poverty. This Bill establishes a new policy involving a major restructuring of the forest sector including, the following adjustments: (i) participatory forest management; (ii) commercial plantations are opened to lease arrangements; (iii) the creation of a new Forest Service; and, (iv) an enabling environment for attracting private investors. In implementing this policy, questions remain regarding the reform of the Forest Department and the level of stakeholder engagement in this process.  There is need for analytical work on alternative ways of implementing key parts of the Forest Bill. There is also need to enhance interaction among key stakeholders. To address these pressing issues, an strategic environmental assessment (SEA) of the implementation of the Forest Bill has recently started. This paper discusses the approach adopted by this SEA to identify and assess environmental and social priorities.  It analyses the arrangements established to factor these priorities into the implementation of the new Forest Bill.  Finally, it reviews the progress achieved in the SEA process and draws some preliminary lessons on how SEA can influence policy for sustainability.


abstract_title:
SEA Legislation:  Results of a Nine Country Review

job:
Team Leader and Lead Environmental Specialist

abstract:
Increasingly countries are beginning to incorporate SEA in their national legislation.  This paper examines select national legal instruments that address SEA, highlighting strengths and weaknesses with respect to their content, based on current thinking on the use of SEA as a tool to foster sustainable development.  The review findings indicate that overall SEA legislation needs to evolve to catch up with the fast-moving evolution in SEA concepts and methodologies as an approach for sustainable development.  However, the review also highlights a number of good practice examples that suggest a way forward for countries developing future SEA legislation.


abstract_title:
DUPLICATE  SEA Legislation:  Results of a Nine Country Review


abstract_title:
SEA at the World Bank: Evolution in SEA Approaches

abstract:
In June 2001, the World Bank’s Environment Strategy was approved.  This Strategy highlighted the use of SEA as a key tool for mainstreaming environmental considerations into sectoral decision-making and planning processes at early stages and made a strong commitment to promote the use of SEA as a tool for sustainable development.  In June 2006, the Strategy’s five year time frame comes to an end.  This paper will present the evolution in thinking at the World Bank on SEA approaches based on the experience of the last five years.  In particular, the advancement in thinking on how SEA can be used for sustainable policy-making, and for strategic decision-making with respect to plans and programs, and to support improved environmental management and governance will be described.


abstract_title:
From Theory to Reality: Landscape Indicator Assessment and Mapping

abstract:
Strategic Environmental Assessment has now become an established policy, plan and programme support instrument for a variety of administrations and bodies across a wide range of situations. The need for sustainable development and particularly for indicators of sustainability is a key requirement to implement and monitor the development of such policies, plans and programmes.

The overall objective of this research project is to develop a conceptual and methodological framework for the mapping of landscape indicators within a Local Authority in Ireland.

This paper outlines progress on the development of the DPSIR framework methodology and the set of indicators adopted and tested in a case study area in the west of Ireland. The development of the method structure and comprehensive set of indicators incorporates a spatial dimension developed using GIS.

Multiple-scenario testing within the GIS system will show for example how changes in policy or future developments affect the suitability of areas for a given type of development over time and space. Therefore, this research will play a critical role in providing the foundation for monitoring development, policy effectiveness and the decision-making processes within County Clare.


abstract_title:
The usefulness of environmental servitudes in Environmental Impact Assessments

abstract:
South Africa is currently experiencing a development boom which is creating a significant threat to many endemic and endangered plant and animal species.Protection of these environmentally sensitive areas, particularly when under private ownership is an issue for all environmental authorities.  The opportunity to formally protect these sensitive areas often only occurs during town planning and environmental impact assessment processes. This paper will examine two approaches of local councils with regards to the use of environmental servitudes, one in Durban and the other in Mogale City. The Durban example sets aside specific land, on a case by case basis, depending on the sensitivity of the area.It further encourages management of these areas through an open and transparent process with the landowner, as well as, the use of economic instruments, such as tax relief, for managing the undeveloped land. The Mogale case study requires a uniform 15% of all new developments to be kept as open space areas, regardless of sensitivity. This paper will examine the effectiveness of these two approaches and will provide individual case studies within each city.


abstract_title:
NWMO’s Study of Approaches for the Long-term Management of Used Nuclear Fuel in Canada

abstract:
On November 3rd, 2005 the Nuclear Waste Management Organization (NWMO) delivered its recommendation to the Government of Canada concerning a preferred approach for the long term management of Canada’s used nuclear fuel.  The preferred approach, referred to as Adaptive Phased Management, emerged from a collaborative and iterative process of dialogue with Canadians.   This poster will briefly outline the process the NWMO used to engage Canadians in discussion of this important public policy issue, and the recommendation which emerged from this process.  

The NWMO designed its three-year study as a dialogue conducted iteratively over four phases.  Each of these phases was centred around a key decision in the evolution of the study and iterative development of the preferred approach.  The four phases were supported by a series of  public discussion documents designed to: share what the NWMO had heard from Canadians to date; describe how the NWMO was incorporating that direction to the conduct of the study phase; and, solicit input to shape and direct subsequent steps in the study.  

In total, more than 50,000 people expressed interest in the study by visiting the NWMO web site.  The NWMO conservatively estimates that more than 18,000 citizens contributed.


abstract_title:
Entirety or puzzle. Topics and mixed disciplines in EIA

abstract:
Most EIA literature is based on the idea that the EIA process represents a whole, and only concentrates on the totality of the process. In our opinion this general view is a simplification. In fact, we are dealing with several separate elements, more or less tied together in complex relationships.

We claim that the lack of international literature related to research on specific subjects (e.g. nature, culture heritage and landscape), affects the academic progress also on the holistic level. Development of methods and specific research is however not missing, but an academic contribution seems too weak to operate within a commercial competitive system.

This paper discusses the need of more applicable methods to combine different relevant disciplines related to nature, culture and landscape qualities. Main emphasis is put on evaluation criteria and its relation to vulnerability and impact specification. In Norway, the specific topics in an EIA reflect old-established academic traditions. We suggest this rigid system with its lack of flexibility and multidisciplinary effort, result in lack of transparency. Possible solution to the problem is improved links between disciplines, landscape analysis synthesis, reorganization of different investigations, better scoping procedures and introduction of new multidisciplinary concepts.


abstract_title:
Models, methods, case studies of impact assessment of wind farm on biodiversity and landscape

abstract:
Wind farms have a very well study impact on birds. Other impact are in same case forgotten or underdeveloped. In this work we show how the landscape science is important in order to protect ecosystems, species and respect the Habitat Directives, 92/43/CE. Our cases are studied on Appennini Mountains (Italy) in the bioclimatic belt between 800 and 1200 m. All the areas are close to a European Nature 2000 Net. Landscape diversity is very high, as well biodiversity. The landscape, geosystem and ecosystem impacts are integrated and cumulative impact analysis is done (Bettini et al., 2000). Historical and cultural analysis is the integration in a holistic analysis.
A general methodology is proposed integrating fieldwork, monitoring methods, geostatistical analysis, forecasting models of noise and particulate matter, and cumulative impact assessment, for both construction and operation phases (Bettini et al., 2003).


Bettini V., Canter L., Ortolano L., 2000. Ecologia dell’impatto ambientale, UTET Libreria. Torino.
Bettini, V., L. Canter, C. Rosnati, 2003. “Gli impatti cumulativi” in Bettini V., 2002. ( a cura di) Valutazione d’Impatto Ambientale, le nuove frontiere, UTET Libreria, Torino, pp. 203-245.

a3_org:
Università di Camerino, Dipartimento di Botanica ed Ecologia


abstract_title:
Coastal zone management from theory to practice: methodology and case studies from Italy

abstract:
Impacts and conflicts analysis is the start of integration assessment for coastal areas (Vallega, 1999). The superposition of the existing problems and the policy, plans, programs can be a tool in order to integrate the management or disintegrating the coastal system. Sustainability can be realised only  in the light of the three components of sustainability, ranked as follows (Vallega, 1999): integrity of ecosystem, social equity, economic efficiency. Megaprojects and great scale plans involve all the ecosystems and actors in coastal area. Highway, ports and marinas, urban development and sprawl are the changing drivers conflicting with vulnerability, conservation strategies, protection, space use activities and planning.
Our decision support systems based on multicriteria analysis and geo-ecosystem approach (Jorgensen et al., 2005, Farina, 2004). Indices in multicriteria matrix are systemic (as Emergy, Ecological footprint, greenhouse gas assessment) as well local one (Connectivity, Ecological state, shoreline change, landscape pattern).





Farina A., 2004, Verso una scienza del paesaggio, Alberto Perdisa Editore, Bologna, 236 p.

Jorgensen, S., R. Costanza, F. Xu(eds.), 2005. Handbook of Ecological Indicators for Assessment of Ecosystem Health, CRC Press, Boca Raton, 439 p.


Vallega, A., 1999. Fundamentals of integrated coastal management, Kuwer, Dordrecht, 264 p.


abstract_title:
Integratred Assessment and Planning: experience in Russian Federation

more_authors:
Irina Matirova, Tomsk Rajon Administration
Irina Titarenko, Tomsk Oblast Administration
Alexander Zhurba, Shaneco group
Oksana Kozlovskaya, Tomsk Oblast Administration,
Boris Mozgolin, Tomsk Oblast Administration,
Aleksander Adam, Tomsk Oblast Administration

abstract:
The Integrated Assessment & Planning (IAP) approach has been tested on four strategic initiatives (Regional and Local Programmes of socio-economic development). 
Key lessons learned:
1) Strategic planning of socio-economic development on the Rajon (District), Settlement and Oblast (Region) levels is actively developing in Russia. SD principles are familiar in Russian regions but not always followed. 
2) IAP methodology promoted by UNEP tested in Tomsk and Vologda Oblasts has demonstrated effectiveness in improving strategic planning process both on the local and regional levels. 
3) The very simple methods are effective in IAP of municipal programmes (Rajon and Settlement levels). The logic and consistency of the municipal programmes could be improved within IAP process. This is especially important for Settlements (newly established level of municipal governance). The capacity building of the municipalities is the crucial effect of IAP process on the municipal level.
4) IAP approach can contribute to integration of economic, social and environmental aspects of advanced strategies of Oblast level. Wider set of assessment tools can be used on this level.
Integration of assessment and planning processes is aggravated with lack of experience in interactive cooperation between planning and assessment teams.


abstract_title:
WITHDRAWN      A conceptual framework for integrated assessment education demands constructivistic teaching approaches

abstract:
WITHDRAWN    Designing and evaluating IA-curricula demands a conceptual framework that incorporates the perspectives of knowledge producers, model developers, model users, decision makers, and stakeholders. The presented framework is based on a break down and analysis of the knowledge production (or modelling) and knowledge use (or policy design) processes. Characteristics of unstructured problems in complex, multifunctional systems add extra requirements to the framework, which must be able to deal with uncertain knowledge and disputed values. 

This paper presents the experiences of a single 120 hour course developed to fit such a framework. Using conctructivistic teaching approaches fosters the constructing and sharing of knowledge from multiple perspectives, inquiry and problem solving skills, communication and discussion skills, and a critical attitude. Teamwork, authentic case studies, and simulation games are part of such an approach. It will train students to integrate and communicate scientific knowledge among parties in multi-stakeholder participation processes and to create a better understanding of the underlying assumptions and limitations of knowledge, and their implications for management. Students learn to appreciate the role of frames and mental models in the identification, selection and interpretation of information. Participation, learning, and construction of meaning become important issues.


abstract_title:
Environmental Managment and Environmental Management Tools in Practice: the View of the Environmental Managers

abstract:
A plethora of environmental management tools  have emerged over the last 40 years, such as EIA, SEA, EMS,  life cycle assessment and corporate environmental reporting.  These tools are the subject of much discussion and debate in the environmental management literature.  In particular, the benefits of using environmental management tools and the drivers for using them have been discussed at length.  There is, however, limited knowledge about the actual use of the various tools in practice.

This paper presents the results of an empirical study of environmental management practices of 23 large organisations in Australia, based on in-depth interviews with environmental managers.  It describes the environmental management tools used by these organisations and the activities of environmental managers within them.  The views of environmental managers about various environmental management tools are presented.  The main factors that influenced the decisions of environmental managers are discussed.  The key issues for environmental managers were making the business case for the use of environmental management tools and the ease with which a tool can be adapted for their organisation.  On the basis of these findings, a number of recommendations for improving the use and effectiveness of environmental management tools in practice are made.


abstract_title:
Examining the effectiveness of environmental management systems in practice

abstract:
Organisations are investing significant resources in developing and maintaining their environmental management systems. The use of environmental management systems is increasingly recognised as best practice and is regarded as an indicator of sound environmental management. This view is shared by industry, governments and other stakeholders including investors and supply chain partners. However, there has been very little research that has evaluated the effectiveness of environmental management systems in practice. 
To date much research has focused on the potential benefits of adopting an environmental management system. However, these discussions have been based on limited empirical evidence. Some empirical research has been conducted on the organisational changes that have resulted from adopting an environmental management system, but there is very little research that explores the implications in terms of environmental outcomes. This paper presents the research approach that will be used to examine the effectiveness of environmental management systems in practice. In particular, the research will investigate the implications of adopting an environmental management system in terms of environmental performance.  This research will draw on theoretical frameworks for evaluating the effectiveness of other environmental management tools.


abstract_title:
Integrating Environmental Assessment and Sustainable Urban Planning

abstract:
Cites are growing at an unprecedented rate, and municipal governments are faced with the challenge of managing growth while reducing environmental footprint and improving quality of life. The City of Calgary (The City) is using environmental assessment as one tool to ensure environmental considerations are incorporated into urban development at the planning stages. The City is planning an environmentally sustainable business campus (Aurora) on a greenfield parcel with excellent access to the Calgary International Airport, the pathway system, two waterways, major transportation corridors, golf courses and a suburban employment base.

An environmental assessment was completed for Aurora during the design stage to ensure biophysical information was used in site design. The concept plan includes an innovative storm water management system based on the topography of the site and the desire to protect an existing wetland. Opportunities to protect native grasslands and ensure greenbelt connectivity are being explored. All buildings will be developed to meet Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification standards. This paper will discuss how environmental assessment can be used as an urban planning tool, and will outline some of the challenges of going beyond City requirements to create a sustainable urban business campus.


abstract_title:
Capacity building in SEA and Biodiversity in South America

abstract:
Capacity building in SEA and Biodiversity in South America
Juan Carlos García de Brigard and Juan David Quintero

The International Association for Impact Assessment and the World Bank in association with IUCN and some local authorities have started a series of training and capacity building efforts in Strategic Environmental Assessment and Biodiversity.  By the end of 2006, three different workshops will be held covering three basic Regions: Central America, the Caribbean Islands and the Andean region of South America.  A new training methodology has been developed for these reunions, which involve practical training on carrying out an SEA in issues and regions which are important for biodiversity conservation.  Parallel to this, an effort has been made to emphasize on the way in which, through SEA, biodiversity can be further protected in these megadiverse regions.


abstract_title:
Capacity Building in Biodiversity and Impact Assessment in Latin America

abstract:
The Capacity Building in Biodiversity  and Impact Assessment (CBBIA) project within Latin America has been endorsed by the World Bank's initiative in SEA training.  Jointly, the CBBIA - IAIA and the World Bank, organized an SEA training week which was held in Bogota and Cartagena, Colombia with different groups of stakeholders, and where a new training methodology was implemented.  This meeting brought together biodiversity and impact assessment experts from around Colombia and the whole Andean Region in order to further train them in carrying out SEAs of biodiversity realted innitiatives and in biodiversity rich areas.  This poster presents the results of this training week and includes some recommendations for similar innitiatives in developing countries and/or regions.


abstract_title:
Outcome of an ex-post Review of SEA and SEA-like processes at the World Bank 1995-2002

abstract:
An internal review of SEA and SEA-like processes has been conducted internally at the World Bank. The reviewincluded a systematic use of good practice criteria, largely based on IAIA's criteria, with an extension to incorporate more concerns about the influential nature of the processes.  Good practices have been identified.  They are described briefly in the paper.  Their use as pedagogic tools has started with interesting results on World Bank staff.


abstract_title:
Environmental Impact Assessment of Federal Tourism Developments in Mexico

abstract:
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT OF
FEDERAL TOURISM DEVELOPMENTS IN MEXICO

Federal tourism developments in Mexico are achieved through a land use planning and zoning procedure by the National Trust Fund for the Development of Tourism (FONATUR).

As a trust, this institution is in charge of the identification of appropriate sites and areas for national tourism activities as well as for project design. The main objectives are regional development, creation of permanent jobs, the generation of foreign revenue and promotion of Mexico’s image abroad and overseas. This in turn has made tourism one of the most dynamic sectors of the Mexican economy.

As other institutions and agencies of the Mexican Federal Government, FONATUR is entitled to submit its regional developments and specific projects to the Environmental Impact Assessment Procedure according to the General Ecological Balance and Environmental Protection Act, the EIA Bylaw and the environmental standards.

The Environment and Natural Resources Secretariat (SEMARNAT) assesses and authorizes the environmental impact statements of tourism master plans and projects, among others.

The main purpose of this paper is to present FONATUR’s internal tourism planning procedure and the way their Master Plans and infrastructure projects are analyzed and reviewed through the Federal EIA proceedings.

add_info:
Key words
Key words
Tourism master plans 
Infrastructure projects
Environmental impact assessment


abstract_title:
Forest Stewardship Certification and impact assessment practice in New Zealand forestry companies.

organization:
Centre for Impact Assessment Research and Training, University of Otago

abstract:
Many New Zealand forestry companies have gained, or are working towards, Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certification,  which is seen to provide a degree of competitive advantage in the international marketplace. Impact assessment, in both the environmental (EIA) and social (SIA) forms, is a significant component of the Principles and Criteria guiding FSC certification.   However, the FSC provide no impact assessment standards or principles to ensure companies meet internationally recognised standards of practice.  What does this mean for the standard of impact assessment being practised by forestry companies?  Does it undermine the intent of the FSC certification process to promote environmental sustainability in the forestry sector? 

The paper describes a study we have recently conducted into the implementation of impact assessment by those New Zealand forest companies involved in FSC certification processes.  In broad terms we are interested in how forestry companies are working with impact assessment, in their day-to-day operations and at the strategic planning level.  We present the main findings  and discuss the prospects for improving impact assessment practices through modification of FSC Principles and Criteria.

a2_org:
Centre for Impact Assessment Research and Training, University of Otago


abstract_title:
Practitioners, professions, and perceptions of impact assessment adequacy

abstract:
In 2003, a number of amendments were made to the Resource Management Act, which governs project level impact assessment in New Zealand.  One subtle but important change was the inclusion of the word “adequacy” with reference to assessment of environmental effects (AEE) (i.e. impact assessments) submitted to councils in support of resource consent applications.  However, no criteria were provided to assist councils to judge adequacy of AEEs.  This raises the question as to what constitutes an adequate AEE in the opinion of council staff and IA practitioners

In this paper we report the main findings of an online survey of impact assessment practitioners (both preparers and reviewers) in New Zealand.  In particular we were interested to see whether a practitioner's professional or disciplinary background (e.g. planner, surveyor, environmental scientist, etc.) was reflected in their understanding of the impact assessment process and what constitutes an adequate AEE.  The results of the survey (completed by 127 preparers and 58 reviewers) showed some interesting links between professional allegiance and expectation of the impact assessment process. The research also suggests that impact assessment education and training is better developed in some professional areas than others.

a3_org:
Department of Geography, University of Otago

a4_org:
School of Surveying, University of Otago


abstract_title:
Collaborative Problem Solving in Public Participation: Changing the Interpretation of the World Bank Inspection Panel’s Rules of Conduct

abstract:
Public’s opportunities to express their concerns, interests and feelings in the World Bank’s decision-making processes are limited. Furthermore, this rarely happens in a form of dialogue. A shortage of opportunities to participate in the Bank’s decision-making is one of the main reasons for submitting complaints to the Inspection Panel. Arguably the public consultation in the World Bank Inspection Panel's investigations - assessing the Bank’s compliance with its own policies and procedures - does not help to resolve underlying conflicts. To address this problem, collaborative problem solving could be integrated to the Inspection Panel’s rules of conduct by changing their interpretation. Collaborative problem solving allows affected stakeholders to participate in identifying information and developing flexible responses that satisfy everyone’s primary interests and concerns. Moreover, collaboration adds flexibility to the rules and finality of formal decision-making. The International Financial Corporation’s Compliance Advisory Ombudsman procedures are example of advanced problem solving design for a compliance system and its application in practice. I argue that Inspection Panel is capable of jointly reaching creative solutions in a flexible investigation process to make decisions with a broader support base. Political willingness, however, is another question.


abstract_title:
Integrating Knowledge on Fisheries Impacts through Environmental Assessment

abstract:
This paper considers how work on fisheries impacts can be better integrated in the context of contemporary EA perspectives. From reviews of current impact assessment work on fisheries, it is evident that there are a considerable number of EIA based studies on the impacts of development on fisheries, but comparatively few addressing the environmental and socioeconomic impacts of the fisheries themselves in the regions worldwide that sustain them.  This gap needs to be addressed if we are to move constructively towards interpreting information to enable sustainability appraisals for fisheries.       
Impacts of economic development on fisheries can be described and mitigated through existing EIA and SEA procedures.  However, although the direct environmental impacts of fisheries (stock depletion, bycatch, habitat destruction) have been extensively documented, comprehensive EA studies on these are rare. Similarly, while the socioeconomic impacts of fisheries are reasonably well understood (providing food, employment and community wellbeing, often through subsidies) these have not often been examined from the perspective of appropriate assessment methodologies.  Our goal should be to bring together the diverse information afforded by existing studies, to identify gaps in knowledge, and to employ an integrated approach to address fisheries issues from the broadly based perspective of environmental assessment.


abstract_title:
Health Impact Assessment and Health Promotion

abstract:
Health Impact Assessment and Health promotion

Last August, the 6th Global Conference on Health Promotion adopted the Bangkok Charter on Health Promotion in a Globalized World. This Charter highlights, inter alia, the impact of development on environmental and social health determinants. It makes reference to health impact assessment as a tool to design intersectoral public health management plans whose execution can be integrated into the implementation of development projects. It reconfirms the functional framework HIA provides for healthy public policy formulation. Among opportunities that resulting from closer links between HIA and health promotion are a greater emphasis on health opportunities in development, more effective mechanisms for engagement of other sectors in health promotion, stimulation of intersectoral action for health, a reduction of the burden on the health sector, liberating resources for health promotion and more attention for changes in health determinants “upstream” in the development process. HIA is of great relevance to health promotion but this relevance is reciprocal: the settings approach of health promotion allows finding local solutions to local problems, health promotion helps create awareness of the need for HIA in development planning and it helps shape a participatory approach to health that can be applied to HIA.


abstract_title:
EIA in Iceland 1994-2005 - The impact of the introduction of the scoping process

abstract:
Formal EIA pratice in Iceland started in 1994 with the enactment of an EIA act, based on EU-directive 85/337. The EIA act in Iceland has been revised twice since, first in the year 2000 and later in 2005. The main innovation in 2000 was the introduction of a formal procedure at the scoping level. This study focuses on the impacts of the introduction of the scoping document and the following procedure, which was meant to improve the EIA process in terms of quality, focus, efficiency and cost reductuion. One of the aims of this study was to answer the question how successful the revision in year 2000 was in fulfilling this goal. To answer this question administrative cost of reviewing scoping documents and EIS’s (by the National Planning Agency in Iceland) was used as an indicator of the overall outcome of the legislative change in 2000 in terms of efficiency and time/cost reduction.  
Different methods were used in the study. The main effort was put into a comprehensive review of all published scoping documents in Iceland and all EIS’s published between 2000-2005 and calculations of working hours spent in the review of scoping documents.


abstract_title:
A critical appraisal of EIA screening practice in EU Member States

organization:
Faculty of Engineering, University of Oporto

abstract:
To date, a large number of studies have been carried out to analyse the comparative performance of EIA systems in Europe. Most of these studies include a chapter on screening. However, few studies particularly dealt with the analysis of this important step of the EIA process. IMP3, a one year research project funded by the 6h Framework Programme, revealed, inter alia, significant differences in screening regulations and screening practices across Member States, despite the EIA Directive clearly defines a particular screening approach to be adopted. This paper, presenting the partial results of the research undertaken by the IMP3 consortium, typifies these differences in screening practices across European countries and regions. In addition, it provides a critical appraisal of the most common solutions that have been adopted so far. A number of suggestions and alternative options to move forward, improving the screening approaches, are presented and justified.

a2_org:
Faculty of Engineering, University of Oporto

a3_org:
Faculty of Engineering, University of Oporto


abstract_title:
Beyond SEA and EIA: Greening regional development programme - Environmental Integration into Structural Funds

organization:
University of Debrecen, Centre for Environmental Management and Policy

abstract:
One of the most important European Union funds is Structural Funds (SF). Numerous developments have been implemented by its support. These developments are significant particularly for countries and regions below the average European development level (new Member States, Objective 1 and 2 regions). Programmes being implemented by the support of SF (operational programmes) are the subjects of Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA). Some of the projects are subjects for Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) while others are not (soft projects). In case of these latters the integration of the environment is really important as being one of the horizontal priorities of the EU. 
The research completed (University of Debrecen as partner in an Interreg project) analysed the regional development programmes and projects of the programming period until 2006. This research analysed the application of SEA in case of national operational programmes while in case of projects not falling under the application of EIA the realisation of horizontal environmental priorities have been analysed. Based on this, recommendations have been developed for the application in the programming period of 2007-2013 in regional development programmes (SEA Guideline, Interreg GRDP project) and in development projects not obligated for EIA report but with significant environmental impact.


organization:
Centre for Rural Economic Development Research

abstract:
Tackling the social issue in hydropower. Abstract
Anders Hiort-af-Ornas 

NOTE: Abstract submitted January 20, 2006, seemingly in vain.

This study targets social consequences in hydropower projects. It draws on the author’s experience about how to identify and address key issues during the past decade. The projects selected have by and large had Sida (Swedish) support; in Angola, Kenya, Lesotho, Namibia,.Nicaragua, and Vietnam but also other locations. Lessons learnt about approach and methodology are given, from selection of key issues and applying cost effective screening techniques. They are presented under the following headings:

- Hydropower in social life. Experience of key issues
- Constructing the social catchment; data, information and participation
- Electrification consequences for regional development and poverty reduction
- Development and surprising futures; participatory models with hydropower station staff
- Stakeholders analysing, and analysing stakeholders
- Conclusion.

The study attends key areas for hydropower project development and formation of quantitative and qualitative data through a partnership process and in a cost efficient manner. One key issue is how to balance economic and technical considerations with environmental and social consequences, and what kind of a knowledge base is required for sustainable development indicators instead of solely technical and economic ones.

add_info:
Please note that I sent an abstract on January 20, 2006. This is a precaution since I have not been given a number. I use the same password as then.


abstract_title:
Capacity for environmental review of small-scale activities; key concepts and lessons learned

abstract:
Decentralized, small-scale development activities are a critical complement to the infrastructure and area development programs most familiar to EA/IA professionals. (In Africa, such development is probably the dominant form of development assistance.) Environmentally Sound Design and Management (ESDM) of such activities is essential: while individual impacts may be small in absolute terms, they can be extremely significant locally. The primary tool available to development sponsors to assure ESDM is environmental review/safeguard procedures, almost uniformly based on the “classic” EA process. However, environmental review procedures for such activities must be carried out in an simplified, decentralized way by non-specialists--posing critical challenges both for development sponsors and implementers(usually NGO staff). Sponsors must assure that implementers possess both skills and motivation. Our experience of more than a decade of such capacity-building in Africa indicates that success requires establishing clear connections between project success and ESDM, and between basic EA skills and well-accepted development best practices already in the core skill set of small-scale development professionals. We explain these connections and the pedagogical approaches effective in communicating them. We also examine related administrative and institutional challenges donors must address in implementing small-scale environmental review.


abstract_title:
WITHDRAWN   Psycho Social Disaster Assessment of Disasters and Implications for Disaster Response

abstract:
WITHDRAWN   For more than 25 years, the author has developed the field of Psycho Social Impact Assessment as a tool for examining the consequences of acute and chronic human caused disasters. This research and resulting theory is summarized in the book Contaminated Communities: Coping with Residential Toxic Exposure (Westview 2004). 

Recent disasters have invited the use of the methods and theory in Psycho Social Impact Assessment for reconstructing the impacts of the disaster. Further suggested is a method for rapid assessment that will allow resulting government and private response to be better targeted to addressing the needs of victims. 

A key case examined here will be the World Trade Center disaster in lower Manhattan, New York City. The Katrina disaster in New Orleans will also be considered.

add_info:
computers were down yesterday so I am a day late. sorry.


abstract_title:
Environmental Assessments of Water Projects at Community Level in South Sudan:  From Donor Requirement to Community Practice

abstract:
Environmental sound design and management is the purpose for which EIA practitioners strive. However, to translate proposed environmental mitigation measures in practice remains a big challenge at the community level and even a bigger challenge for communities that have been under war for the close to 40 years-South Sudan. At Pact Kenya, we have made some progress based on a four-pronged strategy and the southern Sudanese communities are implementing these with some degree of success. The four pronged strategy has local institutions (water management committees) as its foundation and its components include: a) Conducting environmental assessments for small scale activities b) mobilizing communities proposed water projects and environmental concerns c) formation of local institutions and defining their mandates which include environmental monitoring d) backstopping local institutions. This paper will discuss how we do these, the challenges and how what initially started as donor requirement has transformed into a community of good practice that communities are demanding from development partners.


abstract_title:
Conceptual and methodological framework for the integrated assessment of Forestry Management Plans

abstract:
After the Rio conference, many countries revised their environmental and forestry regulations to include prescriptions for sustainable management of the environment in general and forest biodiversity in particular. Such prescriptions include, among others, tools such as Forestry Management Plans and Environmental Impact Assessment of forestry operations. In Central Africa, the practice, reveals some confusion as to the role and the use of those tools. It is therefore necessary to examine the axes of coherence that exist between those tools so as to make a better use of their complementarities and synergies in the sustainable management of forest resources and forest biodiversity. Based on the case of Cameroon a conceptual and methodological framework for the integrated assessment of Forestry Management Plans is suggested. It was noted that such an integrated assessment, that enables a more effective use of financial and human as well as information resources, makes easier the ownership of the tools by the main stakeholder that is the forestry industry.

add_info:
We would like to thank the Forestry Department of the FAO who sponsored the Cameroon case study.


abstract_title:
Scoping for SEA in The Netherlands: generic or tailor made?

organization:
The Netherlands Commission for Environmental Assessment

abstract:
This paper discusses some first lessons learned on scoping in SEA under the new EU SEA Directive in The Netherlands. It argues that generic guidelines for the information to be provided in the SEA in most cases will be insufficient: the character of the plans and programs that are covered under the Directive is too diverse. In the paper some practical case examples are discussed, ranging from SEA for regional spatial plans to SEA for the strategic dimension of megaprojects. Particular attention is given to the cases where plans may affect protected nature area under the Habitat and Bird Directive. What does this mean for the level of detail and qualitative versus quantitative nature of the information to provide? The paper concludes that tailor made guidance for the scope of SEA will be indispensable in order to get to effective SEA.

add_info:
Keywords are: : SEA, plans and programs, scoping, EU SEA Directive, The Netherlands Commission for Environmental assessment.


abstract_title:
Experiences on Sustainability Assessment in the Netherlands

abstract:
This paper discusses some recent developments in The Netherlands in sustainability assessment, whether as part of EIA and SEA or as separate tool. The focus of the paper is on highlighting some elements for effective sustainability assessment integrated in planning or project development. This kind of ex-ante assessment has great potential to increase the quality of discussions on possible directions of development and to contribute to the democratic quality of decision making. However, it is complex. In the Netherlands the main challenge as to SA now is to make it a more widely used tool, that is comprehensive, yet pragmatic. This paper tries to give some first clues.

add_info:
Key words: sustainability assessment, EIA, SEA, sustainable development, The Netherlands Commission for Environmental Assessment

a2_org:
The Netherlands Commission for Environmental Assessment


abstract:
This paper focuses on questions such as: what should be the purpose of SEA and when to apply it in conflict affected countries? How to undertake effective SEA in those situations; is it different from good practice in non-conflict situations? How to build capacity for SEA in conflict-affected countries: what are priorities and where to start? 
The paper argues that one of the main purposes of SEA in conflict-affected countries should be to help preventing natural resources from becoming a source for further conflict in the future. Application should be limited to situations where environment is a priority and at the same time certain preconditions in the country are met. These are discussed in the paper. 
Carrying out conflict-sensitive SEA is no different from ‘ordinary’ SEA, with two notable exceptions: more careful preparation of the integrated plan/SEA process to ensure a conflict-sensitive design and approaches to stakeholder involvement that will not put stakeholders at risk. 
Finally, the paper concludes that building capacity for an SEA is also not different in conflict-affected countries from other countries, yet should not create tensions by itself. Therefore, the same recommendations apply as stated earlier for stakeholder involvement.

add_info:
Key words:
SEA, conflict, process, methodology, capacity building, The Netherlands Commission for Environmental Assessment

Please note: around this paper also a workshop will be suggested. If this will take place, this paper is withdrawn as separate paper for the conflict and disasters stream


abstract_title:
The application of SEA in conflict affected countries

abstract:
Topic of the workshop is the application of SEA in conflict affected countries.
Purpose of the session is to bring together experts from both the IA and conflict assessment world and discuss purpose and approach to SEA in conflict affected situations and how SEA and conflict assessment should complement each other. 
Outcomes of the workshop are:
more insight in effective application of SEA in conflict affected countries and the relationship with conflict assessment
exchange of information between the IA and conflict communities on synergies
consensus on a joint future agenda for the effective use of SEA in conflict affected situations
Workshop format will be an open discussion on the basis of a key note presentation by Rob Verheem, highlighting the main elements of a recently published report on the application of SEA in conflict affected countries for the conflict prevention and reconstruction unit of the World Bank.


abstract_title:
EIA as a tool for capacity building in Tanzania

more_authors:
Hanne
Haaland
Research scientist
Norwegian Institute for Nature Research
Tungasletta 2
NO-7485 Trondheim
Norway
+47 73801614
hanne.haland@nina.no

abstract:
A five years collaborative programme in capacity building between Tanzania Wildlife Research Institute (TAWIRI) and Norwegian Institute for Nature Research (NINA) was established in 2001 (TAWIRI 2002). Capacity building has been one major objective in the collaboration, including training of TAWIRI staff in Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA). A training course in EIA was conducted in 2002. 

The Ngorongoro Conservation Area Authority (NCAA) needs an assessment on the increasing vehicle congestion in the Ngorongoro crater. To meet their demand and to further develop the capacity of TAWIRIA in EIA, an EIA has been selected as a training tool for capacity building.

A participative EIA scoping workshop, based on the Adaptive Environmental Assessment and Management approach, was conducted in autumn 2004. Stakeholders from management, research and the Maasai community attended the workshop. Based on the workshop an EIA has been activated focusing on two tasks: 1. Tourism and on the Maasai community; and 2. Impacts of tourism on endangered animal species and sensitive habitats in the Ngorongoro Crater. 

The EIA is executed by TAWIRI in cooperation with NCAA and with NINA as supervisor, and will be finalised in June 2006.

This paper presents the EIA scoping process as a training tool.

add_info:
The paper can also be presented under: 
EIA methodologies and practice


abstract:
This paper consists of a report on the development of EIA regulations for the Ministry of Industry and Handicrafts in the Lao PDR.  The work was carried out in 2002 and dealt mainly with developing effective regulations for that Ministry to deal with what was then a new EIA statute.  Key features were the classification of projects for effective screening, the creation of a good screening procedure and recommendations to enable the Lao PDR to carry out effective EIA with few resources.


abstract_title:
Analysis of alternatives - strategic environmental assessment or just good EIA practice?

abstract:
In Portugal it is normal EIA practice to consider project’s alternatives as part of the project’s EIA. The analysis and comparison of project’s location alternatives, and other alternatives, has become a legal requirement, whereby the EIA process is initiated, and conducted, at Preliminary studies project design level. 

The decision on alternatives is taken by the environmental authorities, taking into account the EIA findings and the results of public participation. The paper will illustrate the type of alternatives evaluated in the different categories of projects.

In face of the Portuguese practice with the consideration of alternatives at project’s levels, the question can be raised whether it is logic, legitimate or even reasonable to also consider the same type of alternatives analysis and comparison at SEA level, as seems to be the emerging practice in some countries. For Portugal the concern and priority in strategic level of assessment will be to address other kind of issues: the policy objectives, the understanding of problems and the related key strategic issues, the relation with sustainability objectives, and the kind of actions that will be needed to fullfill policy objectives in a way that integrates environmental issues and concerns.


abstract_title:
The Role of Strategic Impact Assessment in Tourism Projects in Developing Countries

organization:
Centre For Environmental Economics and Development Research

street_add:
COSTECH building Second Floor, Room C31, Kijitonyama

abstract:
Abstract.
The topic is Strategic Impact Assessment in Tourism Projects in Developing Countries. This follows from a study being conducted in Tanzania on the Strategic Impact of Tourism in the Northen Circuit of Tourism in Tanzania. The outcome of this session will be; a guide on the methods for assessing Environmental Impacts of Tourism Projects in developing countries, clues on who should do the assessment and timing-when the assessment should done. The final output will be on what are the exact impacts eminating from Tanzania study.


abstract_title:
Planning Sustainable Cities in Africa" An Inclusive Approach

abstract:
The Millennium Development Goals underline the need to improve the lives of millions of slum dwellers around the world, and to reduce the number of people without sustainable access to drinking water and sanitation. The paper argues that human development ought to be at the centre of the quest for sustainable urbanization in Africa. While acknowledging the importance of the “green agenda” for protecting natural resources and ecosystems in order to ensure long term global sustainability, the paper maintains that greater priority ought to be given to the “brown agenda’ that addresses the health and development concerns of the poor in order to build cities that are inclusive, socially equitable and environmentally sound. The paper considers how best to support and regulate the urban informal sector, and the essential elements of a strategy to improve urban public health and the conditions of the poor, drawing insights from the global action agendas of the last decade or so, which embody the principles of urban health and sustainability. These include the Agenda 21, the Habitat Agenda, the ILO’s Decent Work Agenda, etc.


abstract_title:
Using Indigenous Knowledge to Strengthen Local Governance, and to Counter Urban Inequality in Nigeria

abstract:
The economic crisis of the 1980's and '90s and the poor functioning of the formal government system have discredited the African state and exposed flaws in the Western 'external agency' model of development imposed from the top. Because of the growing concern about poverty, inequality and environmental degradation, there is renewed interest in an alternative approach that emphasizes the cultural dimension of development, and the often overlooked potential of indigenous knowledge as “the single largest knowledge resource not yet mobilized in the development enterprise”.   The paper considers how indigenous knowledge and practice can be put to good use in support of local governance and sustainable urbanization in Nigeria; how development policies and programmes can be made to reflect local conditions and priorities, and build upon and strengthen local knowledge, capacity and organization; how a new and more inclusive approach to urban planning would help to reduce poverty, and achieve the Millennium Development Goals. It concludes with some general reflections on the indigenous knowledge movement as an appropriate local response to globalization and Western knowledge dominance, and as a means to improve the conditions of the poor, and the management of urban affairs


abstract_title:
Integration of the environmental and planning aspects in the National Lakes Area, Garden Route, South Africa

job:
Deputy Director: Environmental Impact Evaluation: Sensitive Environments, Antarctica & Islands

organization:
Department of Environmental Affairs & Tourism

abstract:
The Garden Route is one of South Africa’s most popular tourist destinations. This area is  environmentally sensitive due to the unique combination of environmental attributes. 

A number of developments (golf estates,polo fields) are proposed. In terms of South African environmental legislation, an EIA is required prior to commencing large developments that have the potential to create substantial environmental damage. 

These same applications are assessed in the planning process in accordance with the requirements of planning legislation.

Currently the two authorisation processes are conducted in isolation from one another. This has resulted in a series of haphazard developments.   

The National Department of Environmental Affairs and Tourism (DEAT), in collaboration with the Norwegian Ministry of the Environment, initiated a project to integrate the planning and environmental decision-making process. The base information emanating from this project can be used to inform development planning through a planning process, which must ultimately be incorporated into the municipal spatial development frameworks (SDFs).  

The aim of the project is to assist in the integration of environmental and planning aspects. 
 
Some preliminary results will be discussed as case studies to indicate the benefits of an integrated environmental and planning assessment and approval process.


abstract:
The new model of development involving sustainability and equity issues needs implementing local Agenda 21 (Rio, 1992). A local Agenda 21 consists in a particular planning exercise involving multidimensional analysis and participatory decision process. In practice, it looks like nothing is done to evaluate the strategic impact of such a planning process. Pursuing sustainability objectives does not mean that the strategic issue compromises are obvious or that a unique planning scenario will emerge by itself. What kind of assessment do we need for such a planning exercise? We will discuss the strength, weakness, opportunities and threads of three models: classical strategic environmental assessment (only dealing with environmental issues even in a broad acceptation of the term environment), strategic assessment including environmental issues and sustainability assessment. Discussion will focus among other points on the coherence with sustainability principles, the influence of diverse theoretical basis such as socio-constructivism, communicative planning, adaptative or ecosystem planning, integrated resource management.


abstract_title:
CBBIA: Needs Assessment Survey in South Asia

abstract:
A Needs Assessment Survey was undertaken across decision makers in the governments in five South Asian countries: Bangladesh, India, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka, with the objective of identifying Project needs and priorities. Three specific needs and priorities were explored: understanding of biodiversity and its role in impact assessment; understanding of EIA and SEA; and finally training needs in both EIA and Biodiversity. Some of the salient features derived from the Needs Assessment Survey findings are stated in this abstract, a detailed analysis of the findings is provided in the Paper. 
The survey reported that a basic understanding regarding biodiversity exists in all countries. Environmental Assessment is mandatory and is widely practiced. SEA is not being practiced anywhere but its importance is recognized,  with a demand for capacity building. Policy makers and players in the EIA process in all countries possess insufficient understanding regarding biodiversity and its importance in the EIA process, training needs were expressed.  All countries reported a lack of appropriate data bases, tools, indicators and overall capacity for integration of biodiversity into Environmental Assessment.
The survey conducted was very effective and was instrumental in highlighting needs that were felt in the area of biodiversity and impact assessment.

add_info:
Additional details may be found in teh Paper


abstract_title:
Towards integrated Impact Assessment: Human impact assessment in Finland

organization:
STAKES - The National Research and Development Centre for Welfare and Health

abstract:
The development of the relationship between Social Impact Assessment (SIA) and Health Impact Assessment (HIA) in Finland can be described as being divided into three different phases.

In the first phase, SIA and HIA are separate from each other. SIA contains HIA, or HIA contains SIA. The two ways of impact assessment are thus competing as to which is the umbrella concept and which contains the other. This competition takes place between different professions and different resources.

In the second phase, SIA and HIA have approached each other. The different sectors of impact assessment overlap to some extent. A grey area, a no-man's-land, remains between them. In addition to their own special areas, the different sectors of impact assessment also have areas of common interest.

In the third alternative, the social and health aspects have merged together at the opposite ends of the continuum. Seen in this way, all impacts on human beings have their social and health dimensions. Accordingly, the debate on which one of the two concepts is the umbrella term or has a broader scope of application will gradually lose its meaning.

a2_org:
STAKES - The National Research and Development Centre for Welfare and Health

a3_org:
STAKES - The National Research and Development Centre for Welfare and Health


abstract_title:
Human Impact Assessment – from quality to effectiveness

abstract:
In this paper, we examine the effectiveness of Human Impact Assessment (HuIA). HuIA includes health impact assessment (HIA) and social impact assessment (SIA).

A properly conducted, high-quality HuIA can provide the conditions for an effective assessment. The relationship between the quality and effectiveness of the assessment process is not unambiguous, however. Quality is not the only factor explaining the effectiveness of a prospective assessment.

What is required in addition to quality analyses is an effectiveness analysis of the assessment process. Effectiveness can refer to the likelihood of a HuIA process achieving the the goals set for it. Secondly, effectiveness can be linked to the impact of HuIA process on the preparation of a decision or on the final decision. A third aspect for effectiveness analysis is the impact of HuIA on the people and organizations that participate in it. Such impact can be changes in or reinforcement of opinions, values, cooperation relationships or work procedures. These changes or reinforcements usually emerge as the result of the learning process.


abstract_title:
Efficiency and Effectiveness in the Management of Land-Use Planning Conflicts

abstract:
Efficiency and Effectiveness in the Management of Land-Use Planning Conflicts

According to one stance of planning theory, asymmetrical power relations and communication difficulties imply unfavourable odds for  resolution of planning conflicts. If institutional arrangements permit actors to apply calculating and communicative rationalities, the odds may change. 
In a study of planning cases in three Swedish towns, applications of such rationalities were associated with resolution of land-use conflicts. Unsuccessful resolution was associated with irrational behaviour. Effectiveness, in the sense of goal fulfillment; conflict resolution and plan implementation, seemed to be supported by rational behaviour. With one exception, rational behaviour was seen as supporting efficiency, meaning a high ratio of successful performance to the resources expended. 
This case illustrates the need for institutional arrangements, reducing short-term risks. The risks are not only wasting resources, but also the risk of being blamed for the failure. This can induce planners to play safer than the actual odds of achieving effectiveness in the long-term may justify. When risk-reducing procedures exist, it would be rational to enter negotiations, develop decision alternatives and support organisational learning, even when power relations appear asymmetrical and the odds for short-term efficiency unfavourable


abstract_title:
Highspeed railway at sealevel - how do we handle the climate change

job:
Master of Science in Landscapearchitecture

abstract:
The paper presents the issues of foresee climate change in EIA and presents a high speed railwayproject of current interest to be built in a water front area year 2007.
----------------------

Background:
"Railway 45 Norge-Vänernbanan" is to be build at sealevel in "Göta Älv" in the cities Nödinge and Nol just north of Gothenburg, western Sweden spring 2007. The author manages the application for the permit to build in the water according to the Water Act. The building cost is estimated to 125 million US dollar.

Main discussions points in the paper and at the presentation:

1- The sealevels of today will not be the sealevels ot tomorrow - how should we handle the climate impacts change when manage an EIA?

2- When forming a future scenario - what is a relevant timeaspect? 10, 20 or 100 year?

3- The Environmental Courts has to consider new aspects before they give a permission to build in water - how has the courts in other countries reacts to the climate change?


abstract_title:
Norwegian and Nordic perspectives on the linkages between EIA and SEA

organization:
Norwegian Institute for Urban and Regional Research (NIBR)

abstract:
This paper summarizes some of the findings from three research projects on EIA and SEA in Norway and the Nordic countries, and discusses some of the main challenges linked to EIA and SEA in these countries.
The issues relate to:
•	Application of EIA for the appropriate projects and at the right level.
•	Decentralised management of EIA and quality control.
•	Commitment for mitigating measures and follow-up work.

Critical characteristics of SEA:
i. It must relate to overarching decisions – made in Parliament, regional councils, district councils (or municipal councils), and these decisions must have clear implications for follow-up programs or plans.
ii. It must be documented that environmental concerns have been taken properly into account in connection with the above-mentioned overarching decision. For this purpose, it is necessary – as well as useful – to have clear criteria to determine how to bring the environmental concerns into the decision making. We will here refer to the experiences of using certain environmental criteria for triggering EIAs for particular Annex II projects. Similar criteria can be identified to ensure that environmental concerns are taken into account in overarching decisions.

a2_org:
Norwegian Center for Transport Research (TØI)


abstract_title:
WITHDRAWN        Geographical data and spatial analyses to support Strategic Environmental Assessment of land-use plans. A case study in Italy

organization:
Dept. of civil and environmental engineering, University of Trento

abstract:
WITHDRAWN        The paper aims at showing, through the application to a real case study, the role played by spatial data and spatial analyses in SEA. A decision-support tool was constrcuted aimed at organising the relevant information, spatially resolving the actions of the plan, predicting their environmental impacts, and generating concise performance maps. Authors argues that SEA should try and keep the spatial dimension throughout the process until the final results. The advantages of a spatial representation of a Plan’s sectoral and overall performance are discussed in terms of the support provided to a more informative decision-making. The case study is represented by the Spatial coordination plan of an Italian province


abstract_title:
River Protection or Hydropower Development – The Vefsna River in Norway - an example of both? An Evaluation of a Preplanning Prosess aimed at combining both Protection and Development.

abstract:
The key questions: How can an EIA-process play a constructive role in bringing conflicting stakeholder interests together ? How to encourage decision makers to make better use of EIA? The Norwegian Energy Company Statkraft wanted to include the river Vefsna in it’s upgrading and expansion of the Røssåga power plant. Statkraft aimed at finding a balance between hydropower development, environmental concerns and local acceptance. 
After a few years of dialog and cooperation with municipal political leaders and local communities, Statkraft in 2003 presented an impact study including both protection and development options. The impact study included an open and structured process, and created a sufficient basis to choose among the alternatives. There was a relative broad participation, but those opposed to development of Vefsna decided not to participate. 
Statkraft’s “new approach” showed a potential for a better balance and broader consensus than the “old approach” and a potential for the combination of both river protection and hydropower development of Vefsna. The study resulted in a decision by the Parliament in 2004 to consider this combination. 
However,the new government decided in 2005 to include Vefsna in the National River Protection Plan and further planning was stopped.


abstract_title:
Do women drive sustainable mobility in the developed world? Results from an activity-based survey

abstract:
An activity-based survey gathers activity diary data from household members during a certain time period. An analysis on the activity diary data from a small case study in Belgium revealed some interesting differences in travel behaviour between men and women. In most cases the women in the survey did not only perform their own commuter trips, but they were also responsible for the school trips of their children and the household shopping trips. Due to this, they performed more and shorter trips during a day than men. Other differences in travel behaviour concerned disparities in average driving speed and average positive acceleration during a trip. Trips made by women were, on average, driven at lower driving speeds but with higher positive accelerations than trips made by men. When converting these driving parameters into emission estimates the differences in travel behaviour resulted in significant differences in traffic air pollution. Men seemed to emit more emissions per trip, caused by the larger trip distances, but women seemed to emit significantly more emissions per kilometer, caused by the driving behaviour during their trips. This approach opens up new perspectives when aiming research on gender-linked disparities in traffic air pollution.

add_info:
If abstract not convenient for suggested topic stream, please submit to other topic in this conference. Thank you!

a4_org:
IMOB - Transportation Research Institute

a5_org:
IMOB - Transportation Research Institute


abstract_title:
Biological basics for a strategic environmental assessment in German offshore regions

abstract:
Wind is a promising source of renewable energy world-wide. However, wind energy use is rather space consuming and does therefore come into conflict with other land use. For this reason and because of better availability of strong and continuous winds, growing interest focuses on the construction of large offshore wind farms, and first offshore wind farms have been installed within the last decade. Knowledge about their impacts on the marine environment is nevertheless still in its infancy. Environmental impact assessments of single wind farm projects often seem to be too small-scale because the marine environment is variable and species concerned are often wide-ranging. Here we present biological basics for a strategic environmental assessment (SEA) for the planned wind energy use in the German Exclusive Economic Zones of the North and Baltic Seas, two regions  of high economic and ecological interest in Europe. The SEA’s function is to assess the ecological carrying capacity of the EEZ to wind power development with regard to its impacts on relevant species and natural habitats.  Our work focussed on current environmental impacts of offshore wind energy and cumulative effects with other marine uses as well as anthropogenic influences and their evaluation.


abstract_title:
Informal practices and Corruption in Public Procurement

abstract:
A 2002 Open Society Institute assessment of the impact of EU’s anti-corruption conditionality requirements in EU applicant states concluded that these requirements had been only partially successful.  There are of course a number of reasons for this – such as the lack of political commitment to anti-corruption reform, the EU’s excessive focus on legal and formal requirements, as well as the failure of the requirements themselves to take into account features specific to the applicant states.  By far the most important reason, however, is the practice of solving problems informally, rather than formally, which is still widespread in Europe’s post-communist states.  The paper investigates how such informal practices manifest themselves in public procurement in the Czech Republic, Slovenia, Bulgaria and Romania more generally, and how they facilitate corruption in particular.  This is done by contrasting the views and personal experiences of public procurement officials with those of local and foreign businesses.  The overall conclusion of the paper is that unless informal practices are addressed as part of the struggle against corruption, this struggle is unlikely to yield any significant results.


abstract:
This brief presentation will provide an update on activities being undertaken through IAIA's Capacity Building for Biodiversity and Impact Assessment (CBBIA) Program. It will identify areas of success and also some of the challenges to successful capacity building in this area. Examples will be drawn from the main focal regions for the program: Southern Africa, South-Central America and South/South-East Asia.


street_add:
Abia State University, PMB 2000 Uturu, Nigeria

add_info:
Disregard - author submitted duplicate copy of this abstract. -jh


add_info:
Disregard -- author submitted duplicate copies of the abstract. -jh


abstract_title:
Experiences from International Collaboration on Capacity Building through the First Ever Distance Learning Course on SEA for China

organization:
Environmental Protection Department, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government

street_add:
46th Floor, Revenue Tower, 5, Gloucester Road, Wan Chai

abstract:
Capacity building is vital to the success of the implementation of any Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) directive or legislation in any country. In the past two years, the authors served as the IAIA co-team leaders to collaborate with World Bank and China's State Environmental Protection Administration (SEPA) on a Distance Learning Course on SEA for China. This initiative of an international collaboration on SEA for China was developed at an informal international roundtable in December 2002 in Hong Kong. With close partnership with World Bank and SEPA, IAIA SEA experts have been making significant contributions to the course materials and the actual delivery of training. The training materials have now been widely disseminated in China. This is the first ever, the biggest of its kinds in terms of breadth and depth of the matters covered and the number of SEA international and local experts taking part. The authors would share their experiences and lessons learned - from its inception, the mobilisation of SEA experts, the programme delivery, and the feedback. Such experiences contribute to the Marrakech Capacity Building Action Plan in respect of distance learning and capacity building in developing countries.

a2_org:
Dept of Civil Engineering and Architecture


abstract_title:
Sustainability strategies at municipal level – creating contexts for integration

abstract:
Local, regional, national or sectoral Agenda 21 should be backed by an established strategy for sustainability and a multistakeholders engagement process, as fundamental conditions to ensure the forward-looking and multiple perspectives programme that will provide the grounds for effective sustainability programmatic agenda processes. In order to test this hipothesis an experiment has been conducted in a municipality in Portugal, whereby ahead of the preparation of a local Agenda 21 a sustainability strategy was developed.

Loulé is one of the largest municipalities in southern Portugal, with roughly 60.000 inhabitants and one of the major tourism destinations in Portugal. Various physical, social, economic and ecological problems result from the tourism development of the last 3 decades. However, significant public and private investments have also been made, which have increased the attractiveness of the municipality and have generated new demands on the quality issues.

Encouraged by the opportunity to change the development process and engage the integration of multiple sustainability concerns, a process towards the establishment of a sustainability strategy for the municipality was conducted. The paper reflect this experience, including the multiple dimensions of sustainability considered and the methodology followed, including the multi-stakeholder engagement process.


abstract:
One of the motivations for the emergence of strategic environmental assessment (SEA) was the need to improve environmental impact assessment (EIA). That is argued in most SEA literature and is generally presented as one of the fundamental SEA objectives. And what practice is showing is that SEA is playing that role so well that it is even replacing EIA! As a consequence, SEA finds its strategic nature highly limited, incapable of imposing itself as a strategic concept.

In this paper the argument is presented that perhaps we need to improve both EIA and SEA. Improve EIA so that SEA can be released from its replacement functions, which are currently used to cover for the incapacities of EIA. And improve SEA so that we can rehabilitate a concept originally defined as having a strategic nature, as earlier defined in Wood and Djeddour in 1989. 

SEA should be conceptualized as a strategic process, as well as it should be used strategically in relation to its object of assessment. What is currently happening is that neither is happening in most cases. Some exceptions however confirm the added-value of using an SEA that is truly strategic.


abstract_title:
Universal design: Defining human diversity in spatial planning and impact assessment.

abstract:
The strategy universal design emphasises the necessity of an accessible and usable environment for all citizens. A core issue is the requirements of people with disabilities. The strategy is firmly attached to basic human rights and related to planning for social sustainability. Universal design is one of more instruments addressing the challenges of a growing component of old citizens in the population.  

The Norwegian Government uses universal design as part of the mainstream policy, including the strategy in all relevant areas. A five-year action plan was implemented in 2004 addressing the fields of activity of sixteen ministries. Universal design is adapted in regional and spatial planning by adjustments in the Planning and building Act, the development of National Policy Guidelines for universal design and Regulations on Environmental Impact Assessments.  

Through research, experience analyses and municipality pilot projects indicators for planning and impact assessment are generated.


abstract_title:
Strategy for sustainable environmental management of Antarctica

abstract:
Antarctica is a fascinating place that raises interest and curiosity among scientists, tourists and many others. We need to look after and encourage this interest and curiosity at the same time as we have to preserve these unique ecosystems for future generations. Therefore it is of great importance to draw up a strategy for a sustainable environmental management of Antarctica that allows the development of human activities in balance with ecological conditions. Along with such strategy we need tools to analyse the consequences of human activities on the environment of Antarctica and its associated ecosystems. SEA could play an important role in the development of a strategy for a sustainable environmental management of Antarctica. Components in strategic discussions on Antarctica are goals, scenarios and predictions. Goals state the environmental scope and conditions for the aggregated human activities in Antarctica, scenarios provide alternative future development options in the Antarctic region, and the assessment of these alternative scenarios requires tools that allow for reliable predictions. The result of the assessment may call for a revision of the goals and scenarios for Antarctica and allow to develop a strategy for the sustainable environmental management of Antarctica to protect its sensitive ecosystems.


abstract_title:
Identifying and Adopting Effective Approaches for Capacity Building

abstract:
In order to enhance national and intitutional environmental assessmentt
capacity building, it is essential to identify and adopt effective
approaches for capacity building.  The development of such programmes
should initially be based on a needs assessment conducted by national
experts and institutions. Such a needs assessment should include the
identification of target groups for capacity building, including policy and
decision makers, government practitioners, as well as practitioners in
national research institutions, the private sector, non-governmental
organizations, industry, and financial institutions.  It should have a
long-term perspective and go beyond the traditional approach of formal
training courses. The capacity building programmes need to be geared to
address the development priorities of countries, including how the enhanced
capacity in this area will assist countries develop sustainable development
policies, sustainable trade, and  poverty reduction. National institutions
and experts should take the lead in implementing capacity building
activities and programmes. Based on past experience and lessons learned,
compiling a reference document on best practices for effective capacity
building should be a useful tool for trainers to design effective
environmental assessment capacity building programmes.


abstract_title:
The Restricting Factors to the Development of SEA in CHINA

organization:
National Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resources Reuse, School of Environment, Nanjing University, Nanjing,  China

abstract:
Abstract: The Environmental Impact Assessment Law of the P. R. China was promulgated on 28 October 2002 and has been put into effect on 1 September of 2003. This paper puts forward some important factors which restricted the development of 
Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) according to the preliminary practices of SEA in China. These restricting factors are:①potential resistance from some departments. ②poor cooperation between different departments. ③limited availability of information resources. ④lack of well-developed SEA methods ⑤difficulties in public participation. The primary thought to solve these problems were proposed at policy and technique level.

a2_org:
National Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resources Reuse, School of Environment, Nanjing University, Nanjing,  China


abstract_title:
Impact Assessment in Offshore Windfarm Projects

abstract:
Impact Assessment in German Offshore Windfarm Projects

The German Government has set the goal to produce annually up to 85.000 TWh offshore wind energy by 2030. Due to the ambitious targets set in offshore windfarming, environmental impacts play a major role in public debates and concerns are expressed especially with respect to harmful impacts on birds and marine mammals. As a result extensive EIA studies have to be carried out before projects can be approved in German waters. In this presentation, we present scope and methods of EIA related to German Offshore Windfarm Projects concerning migrating and staging birds as well as marine mammals. The EIA contains a two-year field study in the planning area following a standard procedure presented by the German authorities. We outline two main conflicts, which are collision risk of migrating birds and disturbance of staging birds and marine mammals. We give an overview which data are necessary to evaluate offshore windfarm proposals.


street_add:
Commissie M.E.R. Netherlands Commission for EIA

abstract:
Since the nineties, the Netherlands Commission for EIA assists governments in strengthening their EIA systems. Over the years, the Commission has developed an approach that it now would like to communicate.

In most countries with which the Commission collaborates, there is room to improve on the effectiveness of EIA. Lack of understanding of the opportunities that EIA offers, lack of understanding of the requirements effective EIA sets and, sometimes, lack of political drive to establish effective EIA have lead to weak, unclear, ill-considered, incomplete or incoherent legal and regulatory frameworks, inadequate institutional capacity and inadequate funding. We assist governments wishing to establish an effective EIA system tailored to their ambitions and capacities (i) by offering guidance for SWOT-analysis of the existing EIA-system, (ii) by offering assistance for designing such an adapted system and (iii) by helping to elaborate and implement a program to establish the adapted system. We will present our approach in establishing an effective EIA system.

add_info:
Late submission approved by HQ due to authors' history with IAIA.

a2_add:
Commissie M.E.R. Commission for EIA in The Netherlands


abstract_title:
SEA Directive in Swedish Detailed Planning: Role, Effectiveness and Efficiency

abstract:
This study aimed to investigate the role of the EC SEA Directive in Swedish detailed planning. According to Swedish legislation, an EIA should be carried out for any detailed plan that is considered to bring about significant environmental effects. To find out if EIA improves the environmental quality of Swedish planning, a survey was conducted among town planners in nine Swedish municipalities. The study group were given opportunity to explain their views on the role of EIA in detailed planning. Furthermore, this study compared how effectively the Directive was implemented in Sweden, compared to other countries. 

The study concluded that the Swedish method of implementing the Directive at the detailed planning level might be interpreted by municipalities as a justification for delaying environmental assessment until a later stage in the planning process. This might, in turn, lead to the window of opportunity for avoiding unnecessary environmental impact being closed. If the assessment of possible environmental impacts is fragmented into several detailed plans, instead of addressing the issue on a regional level, the perception of impact extent might be distorted.


abstract_title:
The EIA and SEA as instruments of democratization in countries with economy in transition. Role of NGOs in implementation of EIA and SEA

abstract:
SEA and EIA are in the agenda of NGO Eco-Globe since 2001. A number of projects and capacity building initiatives have been implemented since then to build capacities and lobby the implementation of SEA and EIA in Armenia. 

Eco-Globe involvement in UNECE Espoo Convention and SEA Working Group is the confidence that both legal instruments create suitable basis for activization of democratic processes as promotion of  active public participation, rights protection and promotion public interest for living in healthy environment, application of  public knowledge, etc. NGOs have to play important role in lobbying of SEA and EIA in countries with the economy in transition, where the environmental and health protection are often neglected by the Governments.

Eco-Globe Projects are: 
•	SEA training with the support of Norwegian Government and Espoo Secretariat,  
•	Conducting an SEA by local experts (Norway, Espoo Secretariat,NGO Eco-Globe)
•	Workshop dedicated to Espoo Convention and SEA Protocol (Norway, Espoo Secretariat, NGO Eco-Globe)
•	Promotion of  SEA and EIA during the NGO Forums and Exhibitions (NGO Eco-Globe,USAID)
•	Training of Parliamentarians and Parliament Experts (NGO Eco-Globe, OSCE)
•	Translation of several issues of UNECE Espoo Convention Newsletter ”UPDATE” into Russian as PA initiative. 
•	CollaborationwithIAIA.

add_info:
Late submission approved by Terje & Arne. - JH


# t_reviews

comments_vc:
Note to reviewer:  this is an example of an abstract submitted as a session when it should simply be a paper. The format will need to be changed. JH


comments_vc:
Text is included in preliminary program.(jh)


comments_vc:
Author possibly intended as theme forum?Text is included in draft prelimnary program under HIA stream -- need to check placement, as topic is more SEA. (jh)


comments_vc:
Text is incvluded in preliminary program. (jh)


comments_vc:
Test is included in preliminary program. (jh)


comments_vc:
Text is included in preliminary program. (jh)


comments_vc:
Author possibly intended as theme forum?Abstract is accepted:  text is included in draft prelimnary program under HIA stream -- but need to check placement, as topic is more SEA. (jh)


comments_vc:
Note to reviewer:  this is an example of an abstract submitted as a session when it should simply be a paper. You will need to change the format and notify the author in your e-mail message. JH


comments_vc:
Note to reviewer:  this is an example of an abstract submitted as a session when it should simply be a paper. You will need to change the format and notify the author in your e-mail message. JH

This abstract was rejected in its present form because it has no clear relevance to impact assessment. The author was invited to revise the abstract and present it as a paper. AD


comments_vc:
This abstract was rejected in its present form because it has no clear relevance to impact assessment, The author was invited to revise the abstract and present it as a paper. AD


comments_vc:
This abstract was rejected in its present form because it has no clear relevance to impact assessment. AD


comments_vc:
This abstract was approved and included in the draft prelimnary program. AD


comments_vc:
Suggest to shift to "Biodiversity and Ecology" stream


comments_vc:
Marcus - relevant to this session.  Once again we will need to provide guidance on how to structure the presentation. Agree: Markus E.


comments_vc:
Marcus - relevant to this session.  It would be good if she could focus her presentation on the possibilities (as discussed at the end of her abstract). Agree: Markus E.


comments_vc:
Marcus - sounds interesting. Will need clarification, though: Markus E.


comments_vc:
Marcus - sounds relevant to this session, and interesting. Agree: Markus E.


comments_vc:
Marcus - sounds really interesting. Agree: Markus E.


comments_vc:
Marcus - not too sure on what the presentation would actually be on, but we could provide guidance on the structure. Agree: Markus E.


comments_vc:
Will need further guidance, notably on the relation to Urban development: Markus E.


comments_vc:
Marcus - this is an interesting topic.  If the presentation could focus on the experiences of implementing the EIA/SIA then that would be a good presentation for this session.  If they could talk about the success (or otherwise) as well as key learnings that would be good.


comments_vc:
Marcus - not too clear on what exactly they would be talking about. Abstract is a bit light. But if they would focus on work (academic and technical) being done to implement SIA's as part of the MDGs then could be interesting (viv). Agree: Markus


comments_vc:
Although I have cleared this abstract, I am also suggesting to the author that her abstract be allocated to the Health Impact Assessment Section


comments_vc:
This is a test run and must be discarded


comments_vc:
This is a test run, and must be discarded


comments_vc:
This may be a paper that could fit well within the Tools development workshop. This is a question posed to the author


comments_vc:
Could be transferred to the "land use planning, transportation and coastal zone management session"


comments_vc:
recommend accept with changes: could be interesting for IA & MDGs session, but needs more explcit link to how/if poverty reduction achieved 
(Verina)


comments_vc:
accept: interesting for poverty alleviation/ biodiversity session, espcailly to give the big, private company view 
(Verina)


comments_vc:
accept: interesting for poverty alleviation/ biodiversity session, paper should show that the IA has indeed contributed to improved livlihoods 
(Verina)


comments_vc:
definite accept: for IA & MDG or poverty alleviation session (Verina)


comments_vc:
accept: for IA & MDG or poverty alleviation session (Verina)


comments_vc:
interesting but cant see a link with the sessions proposed....


comments_vc:
link not strong enough for MDG/poverty alleviation stream


comments_vc:
agree to accept, interesting paper for Poverty reduction session (Verina)


comments_vc:
agree- no link to MDgs or biodviersity  (Verina)


comments_vc:
cant see link wbetween MDG and biodiversity- maybe better for capacity building for Biodiv session? Verina


comments_vc:
reject or request change: only states problems, like to also hear about examples of suceeses or proposed solutions 
(Verina)


comments_vc:
There is no clear link to impact assessment, - rather it is a project management issue. Request for clearification sent to author


comments_vc:
This seems to be a hyper-academic paper of unclear relevance to impact assessment. Email has been sent to the author for clearification.


comments_vc:
I am suggesting to the author that this be given the format of a paper.


comments_vc:
This proposal for a session came in long after the deadline, but we may still try to include it anyway. However, I have made told the author to decide in this case


comments_vc:
This proposal for a session came in long after the deadline, but since there is already a Marrakech Action Plan and follow-up session we may keep this for the record. The author has been informed.


comments_vc:
Sounds very interesting, but I must admit that based on the abstract I don't really understand what those 'barriers' the authors mention, are. - Make sure the presentation is clear on this!


comments_vc:
Interesting proposal. Longitudinal studies are unusual.


comments_vc:
Linked with the theme of the conference.


comments_vc:
Abstract needs to be edit. This is a very general paper.


comments_vc:
May  be interesting for starting a session.


comments_vc:
Marcus - not too clear on what exactly they would be talking about. Abstract is a bit light. But if they would focus on work (academic and technical) being done to implement SIA's as part of the MDGs then could be interesting.


comments_vc:
Marcus - is relevant to this session.  I think we will need to give guidance on how to structure the presentation.


comments_vc:
Marcus - relevant to this session.  Once again we will need to provide guidance on how to structure the presentation.


comments_vc:
see abstract above - seems to have been entered into system twice.


comments_vc:
Marcus - relevant to this session.  It would be good if she could focus her presentation on the possibilities (as discussed at the end of her abstract)


comments_vc:
Marcus - sounds relevant to this session, and interesting.


comments_vc:
Marcus - not too sure on what the presentation would actually be on, but we could provide guidance on the structure.


comments_vc:
I changed the Topic/Session Stream to "Mainstreaming Universal Design Using IA" which is more appropriate. (Charles Alton)


comments_vc:
I am suggesting to the author that this be given the format of a paper.

The author has agreed to present this as a paper. It is now paper abstract 438


comments_vc:
This proposal for a session came in long after the deadline, but since there is already a Marrakech Action Plan and follow-up session we may keep this for the record. The author has been informed.

The author has agreed to present this as a paper


comments_vc:
Format changed from paper to poster 2/16/06 per author. -jh


comments_vc:
Clarification on 2 points requested:
1. Format: given as paper but text talks about "session".

2. Indication of what "key weaknesses" will be discussed


comments_vc:
This is an interesting paper. I have accepted it. However I suggest that It fits better in Energy: Power generation and biodiversity


comments_vc:
I have neither accepted nor rejected since I suggest moving it. Another reviewer should do this and also make a decision on the format.


comments_vc:
see abstract above - seems to have been entered into system twice.

Then we should reject this one (Margret Køthke)


comments_vc:
suggested topical stream must be changed, 
is it a poster?


comments_vc:
similar to 348 and 349, seems to be just one poster


comments_vc:
similar to 347 and 349, seems to be just one poster


comments_vc:
similar to 347 and 348, seems to be just one poster


revname_vc:
similar to 348 and 349, seems to be just one poste


comments_vc:
We would like to accept you for the Topical Stream: Indigenous Issues and Biodiversity.  Therefore, we were wondering if you would be including a discussion of renewable resources compensation measures and basic needs harvesting in your presentation.

Heidi Klein


comments_vc:
Suggest to shift to SEA session, author not informed? : markus E.


comments_vc:
Marcus - relevant to this session.  Once again we will need to provide guidance on how to structure the presentation. - agree: Markus E.


comments_vc:
similarities to #390, but different poster (email)


comments_vc:
This is the same as abstract 487. - Please take out!


comments_vc:
accept: for IA & MDG or poverty alleviation session (Verina)

the posters are not ment to be used for sessions (M.Koethke)


comments_vc:
Originally submitted to SEA/SIA Development and Cases in Asia session. Accepted by Elvis Au. Then on request of author Elvis agreed to change the sesison to SIA. (jh)


comments_vc:
Originally submitted to SEA/SIA Development and Cases in Asia session. Accepted by Elvis Au. Then on request of author Elvis agreed to change the sesison to SIA. Note author still needs to be sent an acceptance notice. (jh)


comments_vc:
is it a paper or a poster?

acceptance letter send!


comments_vc:
is it a poster?

acceptance letter send!


comments_vc:
Format changed from paper to poster 2/16/06 per author. -jh

acceptance letter send!


comments_vc:
accept: for IA & MDG or poverty alleviation session (Verina)

the posters are not ment to be used for sessions (M.Koethke)

acceptance letter send!(Koethke)


comments_vc:
NB: Presenting author will be Rob Verheem!!!


comments_vc:
Unclear if this relates to IA. Email sent


comments_vc:
It is unclear if this paper relates to IA. Email sent to author


comments_vc:
similar to 348 and 349, seems to be just one poster

acceptance letter send!


comments_vc:
similarities to #390, but different poster (email)

acceptance letter sent!


comments_vc:
doubled with 79

letter of rejection send!


comments_vc:
should focus more on IA in the poster

acceptance letter send!


comments_vc:
seems not to be relevant

rejection letter send!


comments_vc:
suggested topical stream must be changed, 
is it a poster?

acceptance letter send!


comments_vc:
should focus on IA in the poster

acceptance letter send!


comments_vc:
similar to 347 and 349, seems to be just one poster

rejection letter send!


comments_vc:
similar to 347 and 348, seems to be just one poster

rejection letter send!


comments_vc:
is the same as the one before 457

rejection letter send!


comments_vc:
is the same poster as 462

rejection letter send!


comments_vc:
not relevant for IA

rejection letter send!


comments_vc:
Unclear if this relates to IA. Email sent. Answer received. Abstract accepted


comments_vc:
Useful addition to IP depbate. Management boards are a practical and interesting model for IP involvement in biodiversity.


comments_vc:
HB - Biodiversity focus not clear - checking with author

JH - Topical stream changed from biodiversity to energy per author and Helen Byron.


comments_vc:
accepted for bio stream.  HB to liaise with Jo Treweek re whether this would be best in a general B&E session or a CB session


comments_vc:
HB - checking with author how strong the biodiversity focus of this paper is


comments_vc:
I have neither accepted nor rejected since I suggest moving it. Another reviewer should do this and also make a decision on the format.

HB - I believe Arne Dalfelt accepted this for the biodiversity stream on 23 Feb as i was copied into an acceptance email


comments_vc:
HB - may be suitable for poverty reduction and biodiversity session - check with Verina


comments_vc:
HB - Biodiversity focus not clear - checking with author


comments_vc:
HB - asking author to ensure paper has strong bio focus


comments_vc:
HB - biod focus not clear from abstract - checking with author


comments_vc:
HB - accepted for B&E Birds and Habitats Directives session


comments_vc:
2/25/06: DZ emailed author (copied IAIA HQ and Arne) to inquire whether this is better suited to a paper presentation.


comments_vc:
2/25/06:  D Zanewich emailed Arne and HQ suggesting this abstract be reviewed by the chair/reviewer of a better suited stream.  Author not contacted.


comments_vc:
02/25/06:  D Zanewich comments to Program Committee - please place this abstract in a better suited session/topical stream.


comments_vc:
2/25/06 D Zanewich comments to Program Committee - please place this abstract in a more appropriate session / topical stream.  Author has not been notified.


comments_vc:
2/25/06 D Zanewich comments to Program Committee - please place this abstract in a more appropriate session / topical stream.  Author has not been notified.

Author requested to strengthen focus on IA


comments_vc:
this is a duplicate of  abstract 214. Abstract 214 was accepted.


comments_vc:
acceptance letter sent!

Author wants to have a paper not a poster!


comments_vc:
Author wants to have a paper not a poster! I changed the format.


comments_vc:
Author wants to have a paper not a poster! I changed the format.

please send a acceptance notice for the paper!


comments_vc:
The abstract does not reflect the main theme of the session i.e  capacity building and networking in Developing countries.


comments_vc:
This abstract is very similar to no. 47 and in all likelihood, the two authors mistakenly filed a new one instead of finding the way to correct the previous version. I will accept this abstract but send a message to the authors which will alert them to the problem and ask them to choose the version that they want to include in the program.


comments_vc:
The authors will be asked to summarize the case studies and issues presented  in the abstract, which does not really allow the readers (in its current form) to learn much about the contents of the paper.


comments_vc:
Email sent to the author for clearification of text and relationship to IA


comments_vc:
not for MDG , too general, good for  B&E session?


comments_vc:
best in CB session, not for  MDG

HB - accepted for CB session


comments_vc:
panel needs to be revised due to lack minimal abstracts submitted; suggest moving this abstract to another stream.


comments_vc:
Note to reviewer:  this is an example of an abstract submitted as a session when it should simply be a paper. You will need to change the format and notify the author in your e-mail message. JH

This abstract was rejected in its present form because it has no clear relevance to impact assessment. The author was invited to revise the abstract and present it as a paper. AD

I reviewed this abstract on March 6, 2006. I suggest that this would be a valuable addition to the Ag/for/fish section as a paper. This is because more effort is being made to alter chronic environmentally damaging practices in agriculture and this example from north Africa is a good one, in my opinion.


comments_vc:
panel needs to be revised due to lack minimal abstracts submitted; suggest moving this abstract to another stream. BB

Changed acceptance status from No to Yes and changed topic from Assessing Gender Energy to Other. 3/6/06. JH


comments_vc:
Author wants to have a paper not a poster! I changed the format.

please send a acceptance notice for the paper!
3/8/06 - DZ sent notice to author.


comments_vc:
Email sent to the author for clearification of text and relationship to IA.

Author responded with clearifying comments


comments_vc:
is it a paper or a poster?

acceptance letter send! MK

Withdrawn 3 Mar 06. JH


comments_vc:
Abstract text updated 3/10/06 per Arne and Caroyn. Topic changed from hydrocarbon pipelines to energy. JH


comments_vc:
Topic does not correspond to the suject matter of the proposed sesion. The topic appears more appropriate for a session on chemical or statistical procedures.


comments_vc:
not relevant for IA
rejection letter send!

Reviewed and accepted because of interesting public involvement in impact issues


comments_vc:
Text is included in preliminary program. (jh)

Bouchard to chair session.


comments_vc:
Must have a clear focus on IA, (AD)

Author changed format from paper to poster 29 March. JH


comments_vc:
Topic changed from Other to EMS per DZ 7 April. (jh)


