CEA and sustainable development

Abstract Cumulative effects assessment (CEA) offers opportunities as a means of moving towards sustainable development. A set of four UK cases of CEA are examined to ascertain the extent to which the principles and tools of sustainable development have been incorporated into the studies. The evidence (derived from case documentation and from stakeholders contacted) suggests that the potential of CEA has not been not fully realized in these cases and there is need for more awareness of what issues must before CEA makes a broader contribution to meeting sustainable development objectives.