Environmental Impact Assessment for Sustainable Mining – Review of existing EIA procedures and way forward

Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) is a systematic process used to evaluate the environmental, social, and economic impacts of proposed projects or developments before they are approved. EIA is a tool to assist the decision-makers on projects like infrastructure development, industrial projects, and resource extraction - Mining. The methodology of EIA ranges from simple to complex and requires different kinds of data, expertise and technological skill for their interpretation. Various factors should be considered for selecting suitable methodology. Mining, while essential for economic development, poses significant environmental and social risks. EIA has become a vital tool for ensuring that mining activities are carried out in a sustainable manner. The present study provides an overview of EIA methodologies employed globally for sustainable mining. It also addresses the key environmental parameters to be considered by a Mining engineer for sustainable mine planning.