A statement of actual or potential impact of an actual or potential project or facility on a documented, measured, monitored environment. A very detailed study. Based on an environmental assessment (EA). Categorizes the types and levies of effects identified or projected. Objectives: (1) Facilitate decisions: Reduce effects of an existing facility or continuing a proposed project. (2) Design and activate needed monitoring, mitigation, and management activities. (3) Present viable option proposals. (4) Lead into an environmental impact report (EIR). EIAs are essential for projects resulting in a major change in land use or located in environmentally sensitive areas. The clarity of environmental impacts identified, evaluated, and mitigated is a measure of the adequacy and worth of an EIA. International agencies like World Bank require EIAs. Link to This DefinitionDid you find this definition of ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT (EIA) helpful? You can share it by copying the code below and adding it to your blog or web page. Written and fact checked by The Law Dictionary