An Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) can be described as a reasoned evaluation of the foreseeable effects of a new development on the environment.  Beyond a correct identification of such effects, an EIA advises which measures could be taken to reduce any adverse effects on the environment as well as the monitoring that should be adopted.

 The Malta Development Planning Act (CAP356) lists the precise regulations and types of development applications that require the submission of an EIA.

The results of the assessment are reported in an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS), or - if only a limited assessment is required - in an Environmental Planning Statement (EPS).

 Both of these documents (EIS or EPS) respect a similar format, covering

1) a description of the proposed development, including its physical characteristics and financial feasibility

2) a description of the existing environment in and around the proposed development site and the relevant policy framework

3) an assessment of the possible impacts of the proposed development during both construction and operational phases. 

4) a description of the measures that could be taken to mitigate any significant adverse effects on the environment

5) a monitoring plan

Please consult Projects - EIA for more details on Environmental Impact Assessments carried out by IRMCo.