YMPÄRISTÖVAIKUTUSTEN ARVIOINTI, PROJEKTIT JA KESTÄVÄ KEHITYS Tutkimus 2000-luvun ympäristövaikutusten arviointimenettelyistä Suomessa
Year: 2012
Type: dissertation
Abstract: This study examined the field of Finnish Environmental Impact Assessment procedures from years 2000-2008 in Finland. In addition two case studies of critical cases revealed insights into projects and their context. The theoretical background of the research included Popper s philosophy of three worlds: knowledge can be absolute, relative and symbolic. In addition the theory of values and process thinking was utilized. One of the most important findings was that Finnish Environmental Impact Assessment procedures display large regional variation. This variation was obvious in the amount and types of projects in different regions. Furthermore, the duration of procedures as well as the types of competent authorities statements showed regional variation. Variation in the competent authorities opinions indicates that the quality of procedures in Finland also had regional variation. The study also found the EIA process is inconsistent and has regional variation. The knowledge of some key EIA personnel expanded during the procedure, yet for some there can be a conflict in their environmental values. Some practices inhibited learning, which prevented deliberative planning practice and caused a quality risk to planning. Variation in the EIA process complicates the process predictability and can harm trust creation in the temporary project network which causes another quality risk to urban and regional planning. Environmental Impact Assessment procedure is a steering method for society. But it has not developed from a ´toolbox´ level to a systemic level to promote sustainable development in a region. The effects of environmental impact assessments on decision-making, such as land-use planning, environmental permits, the responsible developer s plans and municipal decision-making are guiding, at best. But worse, it can almost paralyze the decision-making process. The weak link between EIA in projects and other processes of urban and regional planning complicates the way in which procedures operate. To conclude, it is important to understand how EIA can better respond to its demands. Rather than following strict protocols, one should focus on the ultimate purpose of the procedure and how the procedure and its results may systemically advance sustainable development in the region. By applying similar protocols one can enhance sustainable development in other regional planning processes in our project-intensive society. Strengthening process and quality thinking does not mean that the procedure should be a mechanistic tool or a strict recipe for implementation. In urban and regional planning one needs communicative and methodical participation and context sensitivity. It is possible to strengthen the quality of planning in a changing context and in project networks, which are of limited duration and temporary organization.
Source: Työväentutkimus Vuosikirja
Author: Eira Inkeri Rosberg
Language: Finnish
Subfield: Management, Monitoring, Policy and Law
Field: Environmental Science
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W647483401