| Environmental impact assessment (EIA) has evolved significantly over the past thirty years and while it has become embedded within planning processes in most developed countries, the successful application of EIA has not been as common within developing countries. This research is set within the broader context of evaluating the effectiveness of a developing national EIA system. The objective of this study is to review and evaluate the EIA system in Barbados against internationally accepted benchmarks for EIA process and EIA report quality in order to determine strengths and weaknesses of the national EIA system.; Since its introduction, both the process and outcomes of EIA have improved in Barbados as expertise in the field accumulates over time. Strengths included a comprehensive scoping mechanism via the EIA Review Panel process, the provision of guidance regarding prescribed EIA report content, and thorough requirements for mitigation of significant environmental impacts.; This evaluation concludes with a call for greater attention and improvements towards identified weaknesses of EIA policy and process in Barbados, including improved screening mechanisms, public consultation prior to and during the EIA process, the provision of additional EIA guidance, and increased focus on monitoring and follow-up activities. These weaknesses could be addressed in order to introduce greater efficiencies into the EIA process and ultimately afford for improved environmental protection. |
