This Act establishes a legal framework to predict and evaluate the environmental consequences of various plans and projects before their implementation. Its primary objective is to promote sustainable development and ensure a healthy living environment by requiring the formulation of environmental conservation measures. The Act applies to a wide range of activities, including urban development, energy production, and infrastructure construction such as roads, railways, and airports. The Act categorizes environmental reviews into three distinct types: Strategic Environmental Impact Assessment (SEIA), Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA), and Small-scale Environmental Impact Assessment. SEIAs focus on the environmental feasibility of high-level administrative plans and policies . EIAs are conducted during the approval stage of specific projects to mitigate harmful effects, while small-scale assessments target developments in areas prone to environmental degradation or unplanned expansion. To ensure accountability, the legislation mandates public participation through briefings or hearings where residents and experts can provide input on proposed projects. It also establishes the professional qualification of "Environmental Impact Assessment Specialist" to ensure evaluations are conducted with technical expertise. The Ministry of Climate, Energy and Environment oversees the process, maintaining the authority to request supplementary information, return inadequate reports, or order the suspension of projects that violate environmental standards.
República de Corea · 2011-07-21