The process of Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) aims to ensure that development projects have no disastrous environmental and social consequences. This book examines the crucial role of EIA in government decision-making in Europe, North America and Asia. It explains what EIA is and why it is important; outlines the best procedures for assessing projects; shows how to write an environmental impact statement and suggests ways to minimize areas of dispute for government, investors and the community. It is up to date and written from an international perspective for students, practitioners and policy-makers.