Evolution of contents and scope of environmental impact studies of mining projects in Brazil

• Grant number: 11/00097-9
• Support Opportunities: Regular Research Grants
• Start date: April 01, 2011
• End date: June 30, 2012
• Field of knowledge: Engineering - Mining Engineering
• Principal Investigator: Luis Enrique Sánchez
• Grantee: Luis Enrique Sánchez
• Host Institution: Escola Politécnica (EP). Universidade de São Paulo (USP). São Paulo , SP, Brazil

Abstract

Improvements in the quality of environmental impact studies (EISs) are often mentioned by practitioners as resulting from learning gained through experience. This study aims at investigating possible improvement over time in terms of scope and contents of EISs prepared in Brazil for mining and quarrying projects. Benefiting from a database of several dozens such studies prepared since 1987 by a consultancy, a number of cases will be selected for review. A data collection form will be prepared prior to the review, which will basically collate date about approaches to field surveys, impact analysis, mitigation prescriptions and topics covered in the EISs. Data will be analyzed on a comparative basis, in order to identify differences or trends, and seeking to interpret possible evolution in relation to both internal and external factors. Internally-driven changes may include team or management changes. External factors may include changes in legal requirements and client policies or specifications. Interviews with the consultancy managers and past and current government officials in charge of reviewing EIS in one State (São Paulo) will be conducted in order to gain insight into possible driving forces. It is expected that recent EISs will be more comprehensive and better scoped than those prepared in the past, but will still lack some elements of recommended best international practice. (AU)