Publisher's Synopsis
Environmental assessment is a process to ensure that the environmental impacts of projects are identified before a decision is taken on whether a proposal should proceed. This means that the most environmentally favourable option can be identified at an early stage and best practicable environmental option selected. This handbook has been produced for: Environment Agency staff; developers and their consultants; local planning authorities; and others who are involved in promoting and appraising projects and activities which are likely to affect the water environment. The publication aims to encourage consultation with the Environment Agency, now widely termed the "scoping" stage.
