Environmental Assessment, especially when applied early in the planning process (at the strategic level), is widely regarded as a key tool in promoting sustainable development, which is defined as: "development that meets the needs of the present, without limiting the ability of future generations to meet their own needs".

Environmental Assessment is a flexible procedure used to identify, analyze, and recommend steps to deal with the potentially significant environmental consequences of a proposed project or programme. It encourages decision-makers to consider environmental issues as an integral part of the proposed project.

EA should consider alternative scenarios, which fully reflect environmental costs and benefits so that a well-informed decision can be made on whether or not to proceed with the proposed project or programme.

effective and efficient use of Environmental Assessment as a planning tool.