The Legal and Regulatory Framework for Environmental Impact Assessments

Environmental Impact Assessments (EIA), a procedure for evaluating the impact of proposed activities on the environment, is a growing reality in Africa, and in 24 Sub-Saharan African countries, EIA is a matter of law. The Legal and Regulatory Framework for Environmental Impact Assessments, which is part of the Law, Justice, and Development series, examines the various aspects of EIA legislation in these countries. This book is based on extensive and in-depth analysis of the relevant EIA legislation. It focuses on and considers specific aspects of the EIA system, including: the definition of EIA in Sub-Saharan Africa laws; the prescribed activities, public participation, and consultation; the review process and the quality of EIA reports; monitoring and enforcement; compatibility with international norms; and transboundary issues. This book provides a special emphasis on the role and degree of public participation for the further development of law and policy in relation to environmental impact assessments in Sub-Saharan Africa.