The Environmental Impact Assessment by Using the Battelle Method

Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) is a tool designed to identify and predict the impact of a project on the living and non-living things. The tool helps to interpret and communicate information about the impact, for the project site. If necessary, it is possible to study various alternatives and provide solution so as to abate/mitigate the negative consequences on human and environment. This is always necessary for new project as well as the expansion of existing facility for any industrial project. There are many methodologies available for evaluation and assessment of environmental impacts. Most of the EIA methodologies are complicated and involves many calculations. The basic inputs are subjective and the output may not help to get secondary impacts. It is also not possible to have spatial representation of data and comparison of alternatives. On the background use of various methods in this study the Battelle method has been identified as one of the most quantitative method. It can be easily used in different projects. The main objectives of this study is to develop a computer program on Battelle method to provide flexibility to expert judgments in entering of input data, maximize accuracy, provide baseline data for new project and minimize time, manpower, complicated work for large project. This study applicable to predict the impact, development of feasibility study of project, avoiding environmental disturbances by taking appropriate measures, avoid excessive financial burden for involving the environmental issue after implementation of project.