A RAPID ASSESSMENT MATRIX FOR USE IN WATER RELATED PROJECTS.

The paper describes a rapid matrix method, used in a holistic manner to provide an assessment of possible environmental impacts. The system has been created to provide a means by which qualitative analysis can be expressed in a semi-quantitative manner, and so provide a record of the analysis which is both transparent and permanent. Such a system overcomes the problems of the traditional approach to qualitative assessments, which rely on the expertise and experience of the assessor and the quality of the record left behind. This new method is highly flexible, and useful in cases where the database is poor (for whatever reason), so permitting EIA records to be developed to assess specific project issues, and be re-assessed with time. Because of the open nature of this rapid impact assessment matrix (RIAM) even subjective judgements can be recorded, and full transparency of the EIA is guaranteed. The system is based on scoring impact components against pre-defined criteria, and transposing scores into ranges describing the degree of positive or negative impacts. The system does not require major changes to the methods used by assessors in present impact assessments; but adds an analysis and presentation component to any existing methods. Each component is evaluated against each criteria and the value recorded in the matrix. Using the RIAM formula, the score for each component is then derived. The matrix thus provides a transparent record of the judgement process. The RIAM is ideally suited to EIA where a multi-disciplinary team approach is used, as it allows for data from different sectors to be analyzed against common important criteria within a common matrix, thus providing a rapid, clear assessment of the major impacts. The system provides a means by which a profile of an impact condition can be developed, allowing rapid comparisons of development options to be made. The system has been tested in studies on river and coastal developments, and was found to provide a rapid and reproducible basis for assessment of the conditions by highlighting changes, and in comparing impacts from different planning options.