Assessment Detail:
A certificate of environmental clearance (CEC) may be granted on the basis of information provided in the application alone. CEC Rules, secs. 3(5) (content of application), 4(1)(c)(authority to issue CEC without requiring EIA)
Best Practices in Lieu of EIA:
Who Conducts Screening Detail:
The project proponent submits an application describing the project with a brief summary of activities and impacts. The environmental authority will determine within 10 days whether an EIA must be prepared. CEC Rules, secs. 3(5) & 4(1)(d).
Criteria for Screening:
List or appendix of project or activity types
Criteria for Screening Detail:
See Certificate of Environmental Clearance (Designated Activities) Order, 2001 (as amended by orders in 2007 & 2008)
Who Prepares EIA:
Project Proponent (with or without contractor)
EIA Contractor Qualifications:
EIA Contractor Qualification Detail:
An EIA "shall be carried out by persons with expertise and experience in the specific areas for which information is required," but no specific qualifications or registrations are required. CEC Rules, sec. 10.
Terms of Reference Detail:
The environmental authority prepares a draft TOR and provides it to the project proponent. CEC Rules, sec. 5(1)(b).
Days for Decision Maker Review:
80 days (may be extended)
Written Decision Detail:
"[T]he Authority shall notify the applicant in writing of its determination with respect to a Certificate. . . ." CEC Rules, sec. 6.
Authority to Impose Conditions:
Authority to Impose Conditions Details:
"After considering all relevant matters, including the comments or representations made during the public comment period, the Authority may issue a Certificate subject to such terms and conditions as it thinks fit, including the requirement to undertake appropriate mitigation measures." EM Act, sec. 36(1); see also CEC Rules, sec. 7 (a determination as to a certificate of environmental clearance may contain any terms and conditions that the environmental authority sees fit)
Expiry of Decision Detail:
If the activity for which a Certificate is granted has not commenced within 3 years, the Certificate shall cease to have validity, force, or effect. CEC Rules, sec. 7(1)(a)(v).
Financial Assurances or Bond: