What are the challenges of implementing EIA and SEA in developing countries?

3 Technical and methodological issues

Many developing countries encounter technical and methodological difficulties in implementing EIA and SEA. They may have insufficient or unreliable data and information on the baseline conditions, impacts, alternatives, or mitigation measures of development interventions. They may also have inadequate or inappropriate tools and techniques for assessing, predicting, or evaluating the impacts, such as indicators, models, or criteria. Additionally, they may have limited or inconsistent integration of EIA and SEA findings and recommendations into planning and decision-making processes, such as screening, scoping, or approval.

4 Capacity building and learning

Many developing countries need capacity building and learning opportunities to improve the implementation of EIA and SEA. They may have low levels of knowledge, skills, or experience among EIA and SEA practitioners, such as consultants, regulators, or reviewers. They may also have scarce or uneven access to training, education, or guidance materials on EIA and SEA concepts, principles, or procedures. Moreover, they may have poor or absent mechanisms for feedback, evaluation, or improvement of EIA and SEA practices, such as quality control, review, or follow-up.

5 International and regional cooperation

Many developing countries benefit from international and regional cooperation to support the implementation of EIA and SEA. They may have access to financial, technical, or policy assistance from international or regional organizations, such as multilateral development banks, UN agencies, or regional commissions. They may also have participation in networks, forums, or platforms for sharing, exchanging, or harmonizing EIA and SEA experiences, lessons, or standards, such as the International Association for Impact Assessment, the UNECE Protocol on SEA, or the African Network for Environmental Assessment.