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Global megatrends and their implications for environmental assessment practice
Journal article   Open access   Peer reviewed

Global megatrends and their implications for environmental assessment practice

F. Retief, A. Bond, J. Pope, A. Morrison-Saunders and N. King
Environmental Impact Assessment Review, Vol.61, pp.52-60
2016
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.eiar.2016.07.002
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Abstract

This paper addresses the future of environmental assessment (EA) practice in light of a rapidly changing world. We apply a literature review-based methodology to firstly identify key global megatrends and then reflect upon the implications for EA practice based on some known challenges. The key megatrends identified are synthesised into six categories: i) demographics, ii) urbanization, iii) technological innovation, iv) power shifts, v) resource scarcity and vi) climate change. We then discuss the implications of these megatrends for EA practice against four known EA challenges namely: dealing with i) complexity and uncertainty, ii) efficiency, iii) significance and iv) communication and participation. Our analysis suggests important implications for EA practice such as: increased difficulties with accuracy of prediction; the need for facilitative adaptation; an increase in the occurrence of unexpected events; higher expectations for procedural efficiency; challenges with information and communication management; dealing with significance judgements; and mitigation amidst resource scarcity and increasing pressures on earth systems. The megatrends underscore the need for continued evolution of EA thinking and practice, especially moving away from seeking a predictable single future or outcome towards the possibility of multiple scenarios with associated adaptability and enhanced system resilience capable of responding to rapid change

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UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

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#12 Responsible Consumption & Production

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Collaboration types
Domestic collaboration
International collaboration
Citation topics
6 Social Sciences
6.153 Climate Change
6.153.2227 Strategic Environmental Assessment
Web Of Science research areas
Environmental Studies
ESI research areas
Social Sciences, general
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