Review of Environmental Impact Assessments by Independent, Third-party Organisations

Mr Leon Perera asked the Minister for National Development (a) whether environmental impact assessments (EIAs) are reviewed by independent, third-party organisations; and (b) whether an individual or organisation can contest an EIA on reasonable grounds.

Mr Desmond Lee: Development proposals require planning approval before they are allowed to proceed. As part of the approval process, developers may be required to conduct various detailed technical studies, including Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs) for projects that are close to sensitive nature areas.

The environmental consultants that carry out the EIAs have an interest to maintain their professional standing by conducting objective and thorough studies.

The EIAs are thoroughly reviewed by the relevant planning and technical agencies. The agencies will assess the findings in the context of the proposed development, including considering adjustments to the scale or scope of works to mitigate potential impacts, and scrutinising the detailed environmental management plan. Unless there are specific security considerations, the EIA reports will be made publicly available, so that anyone can read the reports and provide their feedback on the findings and recommendations, if they so wish. Developers may also be required by the planning and technical agencies to engage the relevant community stakeholders and nature groups.

All feedback received as part of this process is reviewed by the developer, as well as the planning and technical agencies. Where necessary, the developer will have to make relevant adjustments to the original plan, before approval is granted for the project to proceed.