Policy and practice variability for cumulative effects assessment in Western Australia

Morrison-Saunders, A. (2008) Policy and practice variability for cumulative effects assessment in Western Australia. In: International Association for Impact Assessment Special Topic Meeting: Assessing and Managing Cumulative Environmental Effects., 6 - 9 November, Calgary, Canada.

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Abstract

Although environmental impact assessment (EIA) procedures in Western Australia have been internationally acclaimed, the policy and practice of cumulative effects assessment (CEA) is highly variable. All EIAs are meant to consider CEA but practice is patchy. Quantified cumulative loss thresholds in recent EIA guidance documents along with offset requirements offer promise for great improvement in CEA. Drawing on policy and practice examples this paper will attempt to understand the situation with reference to experience elsewhere in the world.