Environmental Impact

Environmental impact refers to the effect that a specific action, project, or policy has on the natural environment. This can include changes to ecosystems, wildlife, air and water quality, and overall biodiversity. Environmental impacts can be both positive and negative and are assessed to understand how human activities—such as industrial processes, agricultural practices, or urban development—affect the surroundings. Evaluating environmental impact is crucial for sustainable development, as it helps identify potential harm and informs decision-making to mitigate adverse effects on the environment. This assessment can involve studying physical, biological, and chemical changes that occur as a result of human activities and is often documented in Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs) to guide policy and planning.