Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA)

A strategic environmental assessment (SEA) has the goal of analyzing environmental problems and potential environmental solutions early in the political decision process concerning greater planning or large projects. The assessment is carried out by the authorities.

Specifically the assessment must gather knowledge and views of relevant environmental subjects, which will be a part of the political considerations in regards to an overall country and regional planning. This among other things should prevent or diminish negative consequences for the environment. For one thing it concerns how a specific activity should take place and where to take place so that it is possible to include certain environmental considerations in the political and administrative planning.

The term ‘environment' has a broad range in this regard and includes physical environment (flora, fauna, soil, geology, water, air, climate, cultural heritage, energy and resources), health (disease, accidents and more), population (planning, housing, education, employment, criminality and more) and economy (regional, national and more).

Data from the SEA may also contribute to parts of the Environmental Impact Assessment (the specific environmental consequence assessment of the project).

The Ministry of Housing, Infrastructure and Traffic is responsible for the strategic environmental assessment.

If you wish to know more about the strategic environmental assessment in regards to the aluminum project you may go to www.smv.gl where you can find background material, reports and hearing replies.