Ecological Impact Assessment (EcIA)
Ecological Impact Assessment (EcIA)
An EcIA is a scientific planning assessment used to evaluate the potential effects of a proposed development or project on the natural environment, particularly on ecological features including protected areas and ecosystems, habitats and protected/priority species. The purpose of an EcIA is to demonstrate compliance with all laws and planning policies relevant to nature conservation.
An EcIA typically follows a Preliminary Ecological Appraisal (PEA), and any additional surveys that were recommended as part of the PEA process.
Objectives of an EcIA:
Based on the CIEEM Guidelines for Ecological Impact Assessment in the UK and Ireland (Version 1.3, September 2024), the main objectives of an EcIA are:
- Identify and Evaluate Ecological Features: Determine ecological features present within the project area and assess their importance, considering biodiversity, legal protection, and other relevant factors.
- Assess Potential Impacts: Predict and evaluate the potential (direct and indirect) effects of the proposed development on identified ecological features.
- Determine Significance of Effects: Assess the significance of predicted ecological effects, considering factors such as magnitude, duration, and reversibility.
- Develop Mitigation Strategies: Identify measures to avoid, reduce, or remedy adverse ecological impacts.
- Enhance Ecological Value: Propose opportunities to enhance ecological features or create new habitats.
- Ensure Compliance with Legislation and Policy: Demonstrate how the project complies with relevant environmental legislation and planning policies.
- Provide Transparent and Accessible Reporting: Present findings in a clear, transparent, and accessible manner.
When Is It Used?
- When local planning authorities specifically request an EcIA.
- The project is small-scale but affects sensitive ecological receptors, including protected habitats, and protected species.
- The project is below Enviromental Impact Assessment (EIA) thresholds:
Urban development - over 150 dwellings or sites >5ha
Industrial estate development - site area >0.5ha in a sensitive area or >5ha elsewhere
Roads - New roads >1km or major road upgrades
Agriculture & forestry - intensive pig/poultry farms over certain capacity