Laxmi Environmental Impact Assessment by Dr. N. S. Raman

Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) has been identified as a major tool to address need for sustainable development. EIA is a relatively new concept emerging as a consequence of worldwide environmental concern. The idea behind the EIA concept is simple; "To consider environmental factors in the decision-making process for socio-economic development efforts". EIA is a practical tool, providing environmental information for decision-making. The present book provides an exposure of the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) principles and procedures. Its focus is on the methodology of the EIA so that it becomes a viable application oriented exercise. Major dimensions of the environmental pollution like air quality, noise, water quality, soil and geology, aesthetics and socio-economic concerns are covered in this book. Measurement of environmental indicators and economists approaches of EIA are also described. Deliberately designed to be relevant, the authors focus on the common skills and generic aspects of EIA that underpin all impact assessment work! such as screening and scoping, impact identification, public involvement, prediction and monitoring, evaluation, and quality control. The methodology highlighted in the book can also be applied to several other environmental issues. The book includes report preparations, design measures and relevant mitigation steps that can be taken to reduce or avoid negative effects. Case Studies are presented, providing guidance to better understand, plan and prepare environmental impact assessments. The book is useful to graduate students of engineering and sciences and postgraduate students of engineering, economics, management and of other discipline who are part of project planning, implementation, operation and other related decision-making.