Handbook : Unit informationEdith Cowan University

School: Science

This unit information may be updated and amended immediately prior to semester. To ensure you have the correct outline, please check it again at the beginning of semester.

• Unit Title

  Environmental Impact Assessment

• Unit Code

  SCM3203

• Year

  2017

• Enrolment Period

  2

• Version

  3

• Credit Points

  15

• Full Year Unit

  N

• Mode of Delivery

  On Campus
  

• Unit Coordinator

  Dr David John BLAKE

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Description

This unit examines the role of environmental impact assessment (EIA) as part of the decision-making process in land use planning, resource management and development projects. Legislation, administrative processes and practice are assessed and practical experience is gained in the conduct of environmental impact assessment.

Prerequisite Rule

Students must pass 2 units from SCI1185, SCI1193

Learning Outcomes

On completion of this unit students should be able to:

1. Communicate the results of an environmental impact assessment.
2. Critically evaluate a formal Environmental Review Document submitted to the Environmental Protection Authority of Western Australia.
3. Identify and apply the principles, legislation and procedures used in environmental impact assessment and monitoring.
4. Identify key stakeholders in the EIA process.
5. Identify potential environmental, social and health impacts that may arises from both planning and development projects.
6. Participate in, and contribute to an environmental impact assessment on a planning scheme amendment or development proposal.
7. Produce an EIA in a team.

Unit Content

1. Community and stakeholder involvement..
2. Development of environmental management plans.
3. Historical and philosophical basis for environmental impact assessment.
4. Methods and procedures to identify potential environmental impacts associated with planning scheme amendments and development proposals.
5. Monitoring, auditing, management and mitigation of impacts.
6. Prediction of environmental impacts including social and health impacts.
7. The legislative basis for environmental impact assessment in Australia and internationally.
8. The role of environmental impact assessment in contributing to ecologically sustainable development.
9. Western Australian legislation and procedures; agreements, acts and assessment of major projects; the referral process; the Environmental Protection Authority and formal and informal environmental reviews.

Additional Learning Experience Information

Lectures, tutorials, E-Learning material and support and project work with authentic assessment.

Assessment

GS1 GRADING SCHEMA 1 Used for standard coursework units

Students please note: The marks and grades received by students on assessments may be subject to further moderation. All marks and grades are to be considered provisional until endorsed by the relevant Board of Examiners.

Core Reading(s)

• Elliott, M., & Thomas, I. (2009). Environmental impact assessment in Australia: Theory and practice. (5th ed.). Sydney, New South Wales: The Federation Press.

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