Topic 2: Environmental Impact Assessment Process

A process used to determine the potential environmental impact of a specific project before its authorization. This assessment helps identify, prevent, or mitigate harmful effects on the environment.

A broader assessment that evaluates the environmental impacts of plans and programs, focusing on the early stages of planning. It ensures the sustainability of these plans and programs.

A process that combines environmental impact assessment (EIA) with other relevant analyses. It's used for projects with significant risks, such as pollution.

A comprehensive regulatory framework for industrial projects with potentially high environmental impacts, ensuring management and monitoring of emissions and waste.

A project defined by a technical document outlining the conditions for its implementation, including location details, construction, or facilities.

The execution, operation, dismantling, or demolition of a work, construction, or installation.

Under Article II of the LEA (Environmental Assessment Law) from 2007, Articles 33 to 50 regulate the evaluation process for projects.

Consolidating European knowledge and approaches, reflecting a legally binding understanding.

The initial step in the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) process, where the promoter submits a request to the competent authority (regional or state) to initiate the assessment.

A document detailing the scope and objectives of the environmental impact assessment, prepared by the environmental body or at the request of the promoter.

A period of public consultation where information about the proposed project is shared with the public, allowing for feedback and observations.

The comprehensive evaluation of the potential environmental impacts of a project, carried out by the environmental body.

The environmental body's assessment of the environmental impact study to determine if it is sufficient to proceed with the project evaluation.

A detailed technical document outlining the environmental aspects of a project, often required as part of the EIA process.

The process of consulting with relevant public administration bodies (such as environment, health, and culture) to gather their technical and regulatory input on a project.

The entity responsible for managing the environmental impact assessment process, often a government agency or an independent body.

Plans and programs that can have significant effects on the environment, such as territorial, urban, sectoral planning, waste management, water, energy, and transport.

The public or private entity responsible for proposing and implementing a plan or program.

The body responsible for assessing the environmental impacts of the plan or program, often a government agency or independent body.

The body with the authority to approve or reject the plan or program, based on the environmental assessment and other factors.

Public administration that manages resources or activities, often involving planning and implementation.

A specific action or project with a defined scope and purpose, often requiring individual approval.

The legal framework established by the European Union and implemented in Spain to require environmental assessments for plans and programs.

The Ministry of the Environment assesses the environmental impact of a project and determines if it can proceed. It can be favorable with or without conditions, unfavorable, or require additional measures.

If a project's negative environmental impacts cannot be adequately mitigated, the Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) is considered unfavorable, stopping the project's approval.

The EIS expires after 4 years if the project hasn't started, necessitating a reevaluation due to potential changes in environmental conditions or project plans.

Even if the EIS is unfavorable, a project can still proceed if there are strong public or political interests that justify it.

A Simplified Environmental Assessment Procedure is used for projects with a minimal environmental impact. It takes a shorter time to assess than the regular procedure.

The Simplified Procedure is designed for projects that may have a limited environmental impact but still require minimal assessment to prevent potential harm to the environment.

The final decision on a project's approval is based on the environmental assessment procedure, including the EIS. Defects or insufficient assessment can lead to project rejection.

The environmental impact statement (EIS) alone cannot be challenged in court because it is a step in the broader procedure.

The initial stage in the environmental assessment process, where a promoting body submits a request to initiate the assessment. This request includes a draft strategic environmental plan and triggers consultations with relevant public administrations and affected parties.

A statement prepared by the environmental body within four months (extendable for two more months) after receiving project initiation documents. It assesses the project's potential environmental impacts.

The detailed process where the promoting body submits regular reports to ensure compliance with the project's environmental requirements. The substantive body (the approving authority) verifies these reports.

A simplified procedure for projects with less environmental impact, involving shorter timelines and potentially fewer steps. It includes an environmental report and public input.

A comprehensive document prepared by the promoting body that analyzes the potential environmental impacts of a project.

The approval process for the Strategic Environmental Assessment Document (SAD). This includes incorporating the SAD into the project, getting it approved by the substantive body, and publishing the approved document in the BOE (Boletín Oficial del Estado).

This refers to the specific provisions in the Environmental Assessment Law (LEA) of 2007, which regulate evaluation and approval processes for projects with potential environmental impact.

The entity responsible for managing the environmental impact assessment process. This may include government agencies or independent bodies.

The Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) is a document where the environmental authority decides if a project should proceed based on its environmental impact. It is a mandatory and decisive report, often required for projects that could have significant environmental consequences.

The Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) is a legally binding document. If the EIS is unfavorable, the project cannot proceed, and a dispute resolution system is initiated.

The project promoter, the entity responsible for developing and implementing the project, must submit the EIA file, which includes the technical project document, EIA, and public consultation reports, to the environmental authority. This submission is the starting point for the EIS process.

The environmental authority analyzes the project's environmental impact, considering the information in the EIA file, public feedback, and technical expertise. This assessment helps determine if the project risks significant environmental damage and if mitigating measures are sufficient.

The environmental authority has 4 months to finalize the EIS, with an optional 2-month extension for complex cases. This timeframe ensures a timely assessment process.

Once a project is authorized, ongoing environmental monitoring and surveillance are crucial. This includes tracking environmental impacts during construction, operation, and even after the project ceases activity.

The environmental authority's decision on the project's viability is formalized in the Environmental Impact Statement (EIS). This document is a vital part of the project authorization process, and it ensures that the project is conducted responsibly.