An enhanced framework for data-based environmental impact assessment in reflection of public input

Abstract

Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) is a globally recognized tool for proactively managing dynamic development projects by identifying, predicting, and analyzing their environmental impact and proposing preventative measures. However, public participation in EIA often remains one-directional and limited to procedural hearings. To address this, a technology-driven framework enhances public involvement in EIA procedures. EIA-related newspaper articles from 1990 to 2022 were systematically collected and reviewed via web crawling. This resulted in a comprehensive list of novel data demands for future project assessments, confirmed through a meticulous examination of regulatory amendments since inception. This innovative framework transcends traditional public engagement, connecting past, present, and future EIA stakeholders. Advocacy is made for integrating these complaint-derived data demands into the national EIA database, elevating both qualitative and quantitative project assessments, and curtailing environmental impacts and social disputes. While focusing on South Korea, the framework’s principles hold global potential to enhance EIA practices.