An experimental project to simplify the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) procedure will be implemented in Ukraine. The changes are primarily aimed at reducing costs for enterprises that continue to operate in affected territories or wish to resume operations there.
This was reported by the Ministry of Economy, Environment and Agriculture.
Enterprises located in territories listed in the order of the Ministry for Communities and Territories Development of Ukraine will be able to take advantage of the simplified procedure.
Main changes
- Shorter procedure duration. Currently, EIA takes quite a long time-at least 52 days. As part of the experiment, the period will be shortened by 12 days.
- Reduced fees. Holding public hearings under the EIA procedure is a paid option. However, for companies from combat zones, the cost will be reduced.
Despite the simplification, the Ministry of Economy emphasizes that the EIA procedure remains an important safeguard against negative environmental impacts.
“The launch of the experimental project is intended to help businesses resume and accelerate operations in territories affected by hostilities, without lowering environmental protection standards,” the ministry emphasized.
EcoPolitic previously reported that, according to civil society activists, there are plans in Ukraine to abandon the Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) procedure for large-scale investment projects. This could jeopardize their implementation, as environmental “issues” may arise after funds have been invested.
We also prepared a detailed analytical report on the problems of environmental impact assessment in Ukraine. The main shortcoming of the current system is the high level of corruption risks.
