esia meaning in oil and gas

A process to assess the potential impact and environmental (/ social) improvement opportunities of all stages of the future development on the surrounding environment (and social conditions). The assessment should cover emissions, discharges, wastes, leaks, usage of resources, noise, odour and visual (and social impact) impact under abnormal and emergency situations as well as normal operations. It should also take into account regulatory requirements, the environmental baseline and the sensitivity of receptors. The assessment will recommend measures to protect, minimize and mitigate impacts.