You are here

Scoping

6 May, 2015 - 09:19

Scoping leads to Terms of Reference for IA, defining the issues to be studied and the methods that will be used. Use scoping as an opportunity to raise awareness of biodiversity concerns and discuss alternatives to avoid or minimize negative impacts on biodiversity.

It is good practice to produce a scoping report for consultation. This should address the following issues (on the basis of existing information and any preliminary surveys or discussions):

  • The type of project, program, plan or policy, possible alternatives and a summary of activities likely to affect biodiversity
  • An analysis of opportunities and constraints for biodiversity (include "no net biodiversity loss" or "biodiversity restoration" alternatives)
  • Expected biophysical changes (in soil, water, air, flora, fauna)resulting from proposed activities or induced by any socioeconomic changes
  • Spatial and temporal scale of influence, identifying effects on connectivity between ecosystems, and potential cumulative effects
  • Available information on baseline conditions and any anticipated trends in biodiversity in the absence of the proposal
  • Likely biodiversity impacts associated with the proposal in terms of composition, structure and function
  • Biodiversity services and values identified in consultation with stakeholders and anticipated changes in these (highlight any irreversible impacts)
  • Possible measures to avoid, minimize, or compensate for significant biodiversity damage or loss, making reference to any legal requirements
  • Information required to support decision making and summary of important gaps
  • Proposed IA methodology and timescale
  • For practical use, develop in-country (sectoral) guidance translating this generic scoping sequence into tools, such as guidelines and sample Terms of Reference.