Author/Contact:
Kørnøv, L, E Ravn Boess, SV Larsen, SQ Eliasen
Aalborg University (AAU)
Resource description:
This deliverable provides a comprehensive gap analysis and set of actionable recommendations to improve Environmental Assessment Instruments (EAIs) — notably Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) and Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) — as tools for driving biodiversity-focused and transformative spatial planning. It synthesises findings from benchmark analysis, case studies conducted in four European countries (Denmark, Portugal, Spain, and Germany), and the application of systems thinking tools, including causal loop diagrams.
The analysis identifies critical shortcomings in current EA practice, such as late-stage integration into planning, fragmented implementation across levels, linear approaches to impact assessment, and insufficient attention to enhancement and cumulative effects. In response, the report outlines nine key recommendations to improve practice, ranging from early integration of SEA and systemic thinking approaches to improved tiering, enforceable enhancement measures, and robust monitoring frameworks.
By addressing these gaps, the report offers practical guidance to policymakers, planners, and environmental professionals to transform EA processes into more effective and proactive tools. It supports strategic decision-making and helps embed biodiversity, ecosystem services, and sustainability objectives at all levels of spatial planning.
DOI reference:
https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.15607182