Practitioner perspectives on what influences EIA quality

Two surveys were conducted recently of environmental impact assessment (EIA) practitioners in Western Australia. The first investigated the pressure on proponents to produce good quality environmental impact statements (EIS) and the second sought to understand what factors influence the level and quality of science during EIA. Available time and financial resources were found to be important determinants in both surveys. The two main influencing factors identified by EIA practitioners in both surveys, however, were public or community pressure and the expectations of EIA regulators. The latter are expressed in EIS guidelines, published EIA guidance documents, verbal and written communication between regulators and proponents during EIA, and in legally binding compliance requirements. The results highlight the value of public involvement in EIA and in having clear and accountable procedures.