Environmental Effects

Although the detailed assessment is usually carried out as part of the preparation of the Environmental Report, the identification of potential significant environmental effects, including secondary, cumulative and synergistic effects should be started at the early stages of the SEA.

The level of detail of the assessment will depend upon the level of detail of the Plan.  In some cases (e.g. where specific actions in specific locations are known) more detailed assessment may be possible and necessary, while in other cases (e.g. high level plans where the environmental effects could depend on the approach taken by a number of different stakeholders and by other relevant lower level Plans) then a less detailed assessment will be possible.  Accordingly, different approaches may need to be developed for different types of Plan.  These may be collaboratively developed with Consultation Authorities/ Bodies and other relevant stakeholders.

This stage often uses a scoring system which can be adapted to reflect the particular circumstances and characteristics of the Plan.

Any scoring system should be applied consistently and transparently. Provision of a commentary and notes alongside the scores can provide the rationale behind their allocation.

The following tables present an example set of significance criteria for air, soil and water using a five point scoring system, ranging from a "major positive" effect to a "major negative" effect (plus mixed and uncertain effects). For example, if the magnitude of the effect is large, but the receptor that experiences the effect is not particularly sensitive, then the significance of the effect is likely to be less. Please note these are examples only and Responsible Authorities will need to develop a method that suit the Plan being assessed.

		Air		Soil		Water
Significance criteria for assessing effects		PDF		PDF		PDF
Examples of cumulative effects		PDF		PDF		PDF