Civil Engineering Professional Engineer Practice Exam 2025 - Free PE Practice Questions and Study Guide

An environmental impact assessment (EIA) is a crucial process aimed at identifying and evaluating the potential environmental effects of a proposed project or development before the project is carried out. This assessment encompasses a wide range of environmental factors, including but not limited to air quality, water resources, wildlife habitats, ecosystems, and the social effects on communities.

The primary focus of an EIA is to ensure that decision-makers consider the environment before finalizing a project. This involves predicting how the project may impact the surrounding environment, assessing the significance of any adverse effects, and suggesting measures to mitigate those impacts. The goal is to promote sustainable development by balancing economic growth with environmental protection.

While financial feasibility, aesthetic appeal, and technological requirements are important aspects of project planning and design, they fall outside the core purpose of an EIA. The EIA is fundamentally about understanding environmental consequences, hence why the evaluation of potential environmental effects is its primary objective.