What are the steps to conduct an EIA for urban biodiversity?

2 Collect baseline data

The next step is to collect baseline data on the existing environmental conditions and trends in the area of influence of the project or policy. You need to use reliable and relevant sources of information, such as maps, reports, surveys, and field observations, to describe the characteristics and status of the biodiversity components, such as species, habitats, ecosystems, and genetic diversity. You also need to consider the temporal and spatial scales, the indicators and metrics, and the data gaps and uncertainties that may affect your analysis.

3 Predict and evaluate impacts

The third step is to predict and evaluate the impacts of the project or policy on the biodiversity components and the ecosystem services they provide. You need to use appropriate methods and tools, such as models, matrices, checklists, and scenarios, to estimate the magnitude, duration, frequency, and significance of the impacts. You also need to consider the direct, indirect, cumulative, and synergistic effects, as well as the risks and uncertainties associated with the predictions. You should compare the impacts of the proposed project or policy with those of the alternatives and the no-action option.

4 Propose mitigation measures

The fourth step is to propose mitigation measures to avoid, minimize, reduce, or compensate for the adverse impacts of the project or policy on biodiversity. You need to follow the mitigation hierarchy, which prioritizes the prevention of impacts over the restoration or offsetting of impacts. You also need to consider the feasibility, effectiveness, and cost-benefit of the mitigation measures, as well as their potential trade-offs and co-benefits. You should involve the stakeholders in the design and implementation of the mitigation measures, and monitor and evaluate their outcomes.

5 Prepare and disclose EIA report

The fifth step is to prepare and disclose the EIA report, which summarizes the findings and recommendations of the assessment. You need to follow the standards and guidelines for the format, content, and quality of the EIA report in your context. You also need to ensure that the EIA report is clear, concise, and comprehensive, and that it communicates the main issues and messages to the intended audiences. You should disclose the EIA report to the public and the decision-makers, and solicit their feedback and comments.

6 Participate in decision-making and follow-up

The final step is to participate in the decision-making and follow-up processes of the project or policy. You need to advocate for the integration of the EIA results and recommendations into the planning and implementation of the project or policy. You also need to monitor and evaluate the actual impacts and the effectiveness of the mitigation measures, and report and communicate the results and lessons learned. You should engage with the stakeholders throughout the EIA process, and promote their awareness and participation in the conservation and management of urban biodiversity.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?