Press Release: Environment: Impact assessment of projects now simplified

New legislation simplifying the rules for assessing the potential effects of projects on the environment entered into force on 15 May 2014. The amended Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Directive would offer better protection for the environment while reducing administrative burdens stemming from EU law, in line with the European Commission's drive for smarter regulation. It would also enhance business certainty where public and private investments were concerned.

The new approach focused on risks and challenges that had emerged since the original rules came into force. This meant more attention to areas such as resource efficiency, climate change and disaster prevention, which were better reflected in the assessment process.

• Primary Source

ESO: Background information: Environment: Council approves environmental impact assessment directive http://www.europeansources.info/record/press-release-council-approves-environmental-impact-assessment-directive/

http://ec.europa.eu/environment/eia/home.htm http://ec.europa.eu/environment/eia/home.htm

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