In an idealized Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) process, determining the need for EIA by the regulations operating in the country at the time of assessment for the project that may have significant impacts are covered in the following step of the EIA:

Correct option is B

The correct answer is (b) Screening.
Screening is the first step in the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) process where the decision is made on whether a project requires a full EIA. This step determines if the potential impacts of a proposed project are significant enough to warrant a detailed environmental study.
Key Aspects of Screening:
1. Determines Project Category: Classifies projects into categories based on their environmental impact potential (e.g., high-risk, low-risk).
2. Regulatory Requirements: Checks if a project meets the regulatory criteria to necessitate an EIA.
3. Threshold Analysis: Compares the project’s potential impact against predefined thresholds or criteria.
4. Outcome: Results in a decision on whether an EIA is required, often categorized as:
· EIA required for projects with potentially significant impacts.
· EIA not required for projects with minimal or no significant impacts.
Information Booster 1. Steps in EIA:
· Screening: Determines the need for an EIA.
· Scoping: Identifies key issues and the extent of the study.
· Impact Assessment and Mitigation: Studies potential impacts and mitigation measures.
· Reporting: Compiles findings in an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS).
· Review: Assesses the quality and completeness of the EIS.
· Decision Making: Approval or rejection of the project based on EIA findings.
· Monitoring: Ensures compliance with mitigation measures.
2. Importance of Screening:
· Ensures resources are focused on projects with significant environmental impacts.
· Provides early identification of potential risks.
· Aligns with legal and regulatory frameworks.
3. Categories of Projects:
· Category A: High-impact projects requiring full EIA (e.g., mining, large-scale infrastructure).
· Category B: Moderate-impact projects requiring a limited EIA.
· Category C: Low-impact projects exempt from EIA.
Additional Knowledge · (a) Decision Making: The step where authorities decide whether to approve the project based on EIA findings.
· (c) Scoping: Identifies significant issues and sets the boundaries for the EIA study.
· (d) Environmental Statement Review: Evaluates the completeness and adequacy of the Environmental Impact Statement before decision-making.
Key Points:
· Screening is the initial step to determine if an EIA is required.
· It ensures compliance with environmental regulations and thresholds.