What is environmental impact assessment?

Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) is a process used by governments, businesses, and other organizations to evaluate activities that may have a potential environmental impact. In South Carolina, the Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) is responsible for ensuring that environmental impact assessments are conducted and that potential environmental problems are addressed. In essence, environmental impact assessments involve collecting and analyzing data, including environmental data, to assess the potential impact of a proposed project or activity. This data can include physical factors, such as topography, water and air quality, soil type, and wildlife populations, and non-physical factors such as public opinion, legal issues, and economic impacts. Once the data is collected and analyzed, a detailed assessment is created to identify potential environmental benefits and risks associated with the proposed action. Environmental impact assessments help decision-makers understand the potential impacts of their actions on South Carolina’s environment. They can also help identify alternatives that may be less damaging or that offer better environmental protection. By understanding the potential impacts of their decisions, decision-makers can make more informed choices that better safeguard the environmental well-being of the state.

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What is environmental impact assessment?

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