A proposed framework and database for EIA auditing

Abstract

This paper presents a framework for environmental impact assessment (EIA) auditing which focuses on the overall process of EIA rather than the separate analysis of particular stages. The framework has been developed through auditing several canal and marina developments in Western Australia (W.A.) and is closely linked to W.A. procedures. Information extracted from EIA documentation is used to construct a database of four files which summarize the EIA concepts of proposed actions, imposed environmental conditions, predicted impacts, and observed impacts. The database can be used to undertake an implementation audit, a project impact auditor or a predictive techniques audit, and also allows individual audits to be evaluated within the wider context of the overall effectiveness of the EIA system. The database has applications at both the academic and practical levels of EIA auditing.