The effects of environmental impact assessment on service delivery.

Abstract

Abstract Environmental Impact Assessment evolution is one of the landmark inventions of the twenty first century. The purpose of this exploratory study was to investigate the effects of applying the environmental impact assessment practice on service delivery programmes of State Owned Entities. Over the last two decades, questions have been asked about environmental impact assessment impacts and effectiveness. In SA, there is a growing perception and concern that environmental impact assessment hinders service delivery. Critics of EIA have questioned the role of EIA in development and service delivery; arguing that the fact that projects have to undergo environmental impact assessment first simply means that the environment is given a higher priority over economic considerations. Some critics have bluntly asserted that environmental impact assessment promises more and delivers little; and is a hurdle to service delivery. The research approach that was used was qualitative and the research design was exploratory. The participants in the study were selected purposefully based on convenience. One of the main findings of the study is that there is poor EIA governance and administration which results in delays in finalizing decisions on applications. This was exacerbated by long time frames applicable to competent authorities. The study also established that there is poor planning, fragmentation of environmental legislation and lack of intergovernmental coordination and integration in general. The study further highlighted a serious concern about the abuse of the EIA process by the interested and affected parties; and revealed the increasing concern regarding the financial cost mainly at project level as a result of complying with the EIA process and the environmental legislation in general. The report ends by making recommendations based on the findings to among others; review the applicable time frames, the public participation provisions, the schedule of listed activities and to improve intergovernmental coordination.