I was familiar with the use of EIA as a management tool, having been introduced to the concept in a course in Coastal Ecosystem Management at UWI. I was particularly attracted to the idea of trying to prevent environmental degradation before it occurs - prevention is always better than cure. I was also aware that one of the best-known degree programmes was offered by the University of Wales at Aberystwyth, so when I heard of the programme being offered by Distance Learning - which would allow me to work full time while studying - I was immediately interested.

THE PROGRAMME

Both Full Time and Distance Learning programmes are Module-based, meaning that they are composed of eight (8) independent components on topics related to EIA. Each module has an associated assignment which must be completed and submitted for grading, and there is an examination at the end of the period of study. In addition, students are required to produce a project of up to 6,000 words on a topic to be agreed with the course supervisor. Having successfully completed all 8 modules, the exam and the project, the student is eligible to receive the Postgraduate Diploma in EIA. Students who at this stage have grades above a specified level, have the option of proceeding to the M.Sc. thesis. This is the stage I am currently at. The thesis must be no longer than 20,000 words, and must meet the academic standards for a Master's Degree.

1. EIA Theory

This module introduces the idea of EIA, using a number of examples of poorly planned developments to demonstrate the need for EIA. It also discusses the EIA process - what steps are involved - and the distinction between the "ideal process" and the actual procedures, methods and systems in use, as well as the way EIA can be incorporated into existing decision-making systems, such as the Planning Authorisation procedures.

2. Economic and Risk Assessment

This includes an introduction to Economic Theory in order to develop an appreciation of the way decisions are made based on economic concerns. Concepts such as Cost-Benefit Analysis, and the economic valuation of the environment are introduced, as means of incorporating environmental concerns into economic decision-making. Techniques of assessing, evaluating and calculating Risk are covered, as was the concept of Environmental Health Impact Assessment.

3. Predicting and Monitoring

Techniques for monitoring environmental conditions and for making predictions are covered in order to introduce the science involved in EIA. The number of environmental conditions covered is quite extensive, meaning that no student can be realistically expected to know everything about all components. However, it is expected that a general understanding of all should be developed, in order to be able to interpret EIAs fully.

4. Law Related to EIA in the European Union.

The 1985 EU Directive on EIA is covered in detail, as are the amendments put forward in 1997. The means by which each member state meets the requirements of the Directive are discussed in detail. Thus this module provides details of the EIA systems in use in each of the EU states.

5. EIA Procedures Outside the European Union.

This module continues where the last left off, by discussing in detail the EIA systems in use in other (non-EU) countries, beginning with the United States, whose EIA system - based on the National Envionmental Protection Act 1969 or NEPA - was the first national system, and has had great influence over all other systems. Other countries covered include Australia, Brazil, Canada, South Africa, the Czech Republic and Malaysia. EIA systems used by Development Banks and Agencies are also covered.

6. UK Environmental Law.

Legal means of dealing with environmental problems are dealt with, by means of a number of studies of case law. Specific attention is given to legal means of controlling air, water and land pollution, as well as to Integrated Pollution Control, which attempts to consolidate the three. It also includes a case history on EIA use in the UK.

7. Case Studies.

This module consists of a number of exercises intended to further clarify the concepts and techniques described in the other modules, including Screening, Scoping, Review, and Cost-Benefit Analysis. It also includes exercises in Environmental Law, as well as practical exercises on tendering for an EIA, and developing and implementing an EIA system in a developing country. Thus it is perhaps the most useful, and interesting module of the eight.

8. Sustainable Development and Strategic Environmental Assessment.

This module discusses the concept, and means of achieving Sustainable Development, which underlies the principles of EIA. The discussion recognizes that traditional approaches to EIA have limitations, and, in this context, introduces the concept of Strategic Environmental Assessment, Strategic EIA, or SEA. By evaluating development decisions at a more strategic level, SEA attempts to ensure that issues of sustainability are considered in Programmes, Plans and Policies (sometimes referred to as PPPs), as well as in Projects, which are the scope of traditional EIA.

THE PROJECT

In February 1998 I returned to Trinidad in order to conduct my research project on the use of EIA in Trinidad and Tobago. The work involved a study of the new environmental legislation - the Environmental Management Act 1995 - and interviews with persons involved in EIA. My main sources of information were officials of the Town and Country Planning Division, and the newly formed Environmental Management Authority, who told me of their organisations' systems (or proposed system in the case of the EMA). Interviews with professionals in the private sector confirmed the information received from the two chief sources. My findings were that, at the time, EIAs were being requested by Town and Country Planning, but that the EMA would take over the function as soon as the EM Act became enforceable, on the passing of two pieces of subsidiary legislation. The full text of the project, including descriptions of the present and proposed systems are available by clicking here.

In order to receive the Master of Science Degree in Environmental Impact Assessment, I must complete a Thesis of no more than 20,000 words, which must be agreed with my supervisor, and meet the standards of the various examiners. However, at present I have not yet decided on a suitable topic. As the thesis will be a fairly major undertaking, I am taking my time to ensure that the topic I choose will fit in well with my interests and career goals, and will help to develop the use of EIA in Trinidad and Tobago, the Caribbean, and the world. Any suggestions would be welcomed.