In brief
- The EsIA is prepared by the developer and compiles the information needed to assess the effects of the project on the environment.
- It is required when applying for the environmental authorisation for activities subject to the obligation.
- It applies to activities in Annexes I.1, I.2 and I.3 of Law 20/2009 and to some in Annex II.
- It includes alternatives, foreseeable effects, corrective measures and an environmental monitoring programme.
- The environmental impact assessment of the activity forms part of the study we deliver.
What is the Environmental Impact Study?
The Environmental Impact Study (Estudio de Impacto Ambiental, EsIA) is a document prepared by the developer containing the information needed to assess the potential significant effects of the project or company on the environment, and to take the appropriate decisions to prevent and minimise them.
It is required when applying for the environmental authorisation under Law 20/2009 of 4 December (Catalonia) on environmental prevention and control of activities. Drafting it requires an environmental impact assessment (EIA) of the activity, which at TMI is an essential part of the project.
Which companies have to prepare one?
Companies whose activities are included in:
- Annexes I.1 and I.2 of Law 20/2009.
- Annex I.3 of Law 20/2009.
- Annex II of Law 20/2009, where the activity is also covered by Law 21/2013 of 9 December on environmental assessment.
What does it contain?
As a minimum, the study must include:
- A general description of the project and its foreseeable requirements over time in terms of land use and other natural resources; an estimate of the type and quantity of waste discharged and of emissions of matter or energy, and a description of the receiving environment.
- The main alternatives studied and the justification for the solution adopted, taking into account the best available techniques and the environmental effects.
- An assessment of the foreseeable direct and indirect effects on population, flora, fauna, soil, air, water, climatic factors, landscape and material assets, including cultural heritage, as well as the interaction between them and any potential effects across municipal, regional or national boundaries.
- Measures to reduce, eliminate or offset the significant environmental effects.
- An environmental monitoring programme.
- A noise impact study.
- Characteristics of the outdoor lighting.
- A summary and conclusions in easily understandable terms and, where applicable, the information or technical difficulties encountered in preparing it.
How we do it
- Site visit
We collect the data and advise you on fitting out the premises. - Assessment of the activity
We analyse the effects of the activity on the environment and the measures to prevent them. - Technical documentation
We write the technical report, prepare the drawings and complete the application forms. - Delivery
We deliver the study ready to accompany the environmental authorisation application.
What happens if it is not done?
If your activity is among those subject to the obligation and you do not have an Environmental Impact Study, the environmental authorisation will not be granted.
Frequently asked questions
Are the study and the environmental impact assessment the same thing?
No. The assessment analyses the effects of the activity; the study is the document that compiles that information and is submitted with the authorisation application.
Who prepares the EsIA?
The project developer. In practice, it is drafted by a technical team commissioned by the company.
Do Annex II activities always need one?
Only when they are also covered by Law 21/2013 on environmental assessment.