ENVS3610 Environmental Impact Assessment Group Assignment 20

Environmental Impact Assessment and Environmental Management System

1ENVS3610 Environmental Impact Assessment Group Assignment 2020Integrated EIA -EMS for a specific infrastructure developmentEnvironmental Impact Assessment (EIA) and Environmental Management System (EMS) are tools available to organizations in addressing the impacts of their activities or projects on the environment. Traditionally, EIA isfocused only on bio-physical impacts of projects or development to land, water and air. However, with increased awareness and understanding ofthe interactions of the physical environment, society and economic aspects, the scope has widened to include socio-economic and sustainability issues. In most cases, the scope of the study is dictated by the EIA process adopted in each country by legislation or institutional policies. An EMS, based on ISO 14001,is a robust management system that is scalable to multiple industrial sites globally, voluntary, and cost effective. Moreover, it allows for continuous improvements through cyclical iteration of plan-do-check-act (PDCA) elements, which are essential for long term sustainability. Companies and organisations have started to integrate EIA and EMS tools in managing the environmental aspects of their operations. There are success stories in certain sectors, like the oil and gas industry and in numerouscompanies driven by their leaders’ commitment to environmental sustainability. However, despite these initiatives, the uptake of integrating EIA and EMS has been rather slow. Part A: Recommend an approach to integrate EIA and EMS 1. Identify the strengths and weaknesses of each tool: EIA and EMS. 2. Develop and recommend a model or approach for implementing an integrated EIA and EMS. Illustrate your model using a diagram followed by a narrative to explain the approach to integration.3. Identify and explain the drivers or factors necessary for the successful implementation of your recommended model or approach