1. Introduction
An (EIA) is an assessment of the possible impact–positive or negative–that a proposed
project may have on the natural environment (Bailey 1997). The purpose of the assessment is
to ensure that decision makers consider the ensuing environmental impacts to decide whether
to proceed with the project. The International Association for Impact Assessment (IAIA)
defines an environmental impact assessment as "the process of identifying, predicting,
evaluating and mitigating the biophysical, social, and other relevant effects of development
proposals prior to major decisions being taken and commitments made." After an EIA, the
precautionary and polluter pays principles may be applied to prevent, limit, or require strict
liability or insurance coverage to a project, based on its likely harms. Environmental impact
assessments are sometimes controversial.