Question

Examine the scope of grass root upward planning rather than trickledown effect planning.

Answer 1

1. EIA involves the local communities in the assessment stage rather than the higher authorities of government or politicians.
2. The local people help in the base data collection and their view point is important. The effect of the project on the local community is an important aspect of Environmental Impact Assessment, be it health effect or livelihood.
3. This is in contrast to the trickledown theory where the wealthy will benefit the poorer class of the society by improving the economy as a whole.
4. The benefits of the rich investors are secondary to the welfare of the local community and the environment.
5. EIA considers that effective involvement of local communities in the planning and implementation of sustainable development initiative is critical to their long term success.