Environmental Impact Assessment in Practice

The book "Environmental Impact Assessment in Practice" by Nick Harvey and Beverley Clarke is a comprehensive guide to the process of environmental impact assessment (EIA). Here is a detailed overview of the book:

Key Themes

1. Introduction to EIA: The book provides a practical introduction to EIA, covering its importance and relevance in various disciplines such as land-use planning, geography, civil engineering, building, and estate management.
2. Assessing the Need for EIAs: It discusses the criteria and processes involved in determining whether an EIA is required for a particular project or policy.
3. Environmental Team and Scoping: The authors delve into the composition of an environmental team and the scoping process, which involves identifying the potential impacts of a project.
4. Public Participation and Consultation: The book emphasizes the importance of public participation and consultation in the EIA process, including internal and external consultation, local lobbying, and public inquiries.
5. Monitoring Impacts and Pollution Control: It covers the methods for monitoring environmental impacts and controlling pollution, which are crucial steps in the EIA process.
6. Lessons Learned: The authors provide case studies and lessons learned from various projects, highlighting best practices and common pitfalls in EIA.

Plot Summary

The book is structured to provide a step-by-step guide to the EIA process. It begins with an introduction to the concept of EIA and its significance in modern planning practices. The subsequent chapters delve into the practical aspects of EIA, including the formation of an environmental team, scoping the project, and engaging in public participation. The book also discusses the review and decision-making processes by local authorities and the role of public inquiries. Finally, it addresses the monitoring of environmental impacts and strategies for pollution control.

Critical Reception

While specific reviews of the book by Nick Harvey and Beverley Clarke are not readily available in the search results, the book is generally recognized as a valuable resource for students and professionals in the field of environmental impact assessment. Its practical approach and use of case studies make it a useful tool for understanding the complexities of EIA in practice.

Availability

The book is available in both print and digital formats, making it accessible to a wide range of users. It is particularly recommended for final year undergraduate and postgraduate students in planning, geography, civil engineering, building, and estate management.