This document offers guidance for project developers and consultants on biodiversity-inclusive Environmental and Social Impact Assessments (ESIAs). It compiles good practices for impact assessment and management planning based on reports from multi-lateral finance institutions (MFIs), government regulators, NGOs, and industry associations. While not a replacement for existing ESIA guidance, it supplements areas where biodiversity considerations are lacking. The document aligns with the mitigation hierarchy (avoid, minimize, restore, compensate) and encourages developers to adjust the level of assessment rigor to project-specific biodiversity risks.
Key Messages
- Target Audience: Designed for project developers and consultants working on ESIAs.
- Purpose: Supplements existing ESIA guidance with a focus on biodiversity impact.
- Good Practices: Based on recommendations from MFIs, regulators, NGOs, and industry bodies.
- Mitigation Hierarchy: Follows avoid, minimize, restore, and compensate framework.
- Tailored Approach: Encourages adapting assessment and management rigor to biodiversity risk levels.
- Knowledge Gaps: Acknowledges gaps in biodiversity data; stresses transparency and cautious assumptions where data is lacking.
- Iterative Process: Highlights that ESIA processes often require iterative adjustments to timelines, budgets, and planning.
