Application of the systems approach to analyze the effectiveness of Environmental Impact Assessment in Brazil: a study in the states of São Paulo and South of Minas Gerais

Author(s)

Maria Rita Raimundo e Almeida

• Document type: Doctoral Thesis
• Press: São Carlos.
• Institution: Universidade de São Paulo (USP). Escola de Engenharia de São Carlos (EESC/SBD)
• Defense date: 2013-12-17

Examining board members

Marcelo Montaño; Reginaldo de Camargo; Alberto de Freitas Castro Fonseca; Evandro Mateus Moretto; Marcelo Pereira de Souza

• Advisor: Marcelo Montaño

Abstract

Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA), an internationally widespread and established tool, has limitations with respect to its influence on decision-making, suggesting a low degree of effectiveness for the instrument. In this context, its effectiveness analysis has been carried out from different approaches, with a prevalence of studies focused on specific procedures and/or parts of the EIA process, or even targeted for the verification of compliance with criteria or guidelines for its implementation. Given its complexity, it is suggested, then, that both the EIA as intervening factors in its effectiveness are understood from a broader approach that considers the relationships between the steps of the process, its components and actors involved. The design of the research is guided by elements developed in the field of General Systems Theory and, as such, assumes that the different relationships between components of complex systems are emerging properties that determine its own functioning. Adopted as the study object the EIA and environmental licensing systems implemented in the states of São Paulo and Minas Gerais (Sul de Minas), the present work is focused on the identification and discussion of the factors involved in the effectiveness of the application of the instruments involved, based on a systemic approach. Among the existing systemic tools was chosen the Soft Systems Methodology (SSM) known to foster learning of the actors involved and applied to non-quantifiable systems like EIA to identify gaps and propose actions for the improvement of these two systems. The results may point out differences in the organization and responsiveness of the studied systems, concentrated in environmental agency structuring, in the scope, in the participation windows, in the number of actors involved in the decision arenas and in the processes time. The main constraints identified for the two systems are in line with the international literature points, which include participation, consideration of project alternatives, the assessment of cumulative effects and the influence of external factors in decision-making. The approach presented as interesting to evaluate the EIA systems, contributing to a better understanding of its organization and operation. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 12/00265-1 - Applicability of systemic approach to the development of effectiveness indicators to environmental impact assessment in Brazil: comparative study to São Paulo and Minas Gerais States
• Grantee: Maria Rita Raimundo e Almeida
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Doctorate