Application of traffic impact studies as part of the EIA process: a case study as applied to the extension of a mineral processing plant

摘要

The publication of the National Environmental Management Act (NEMA) (Act 107 of 1998) in South Africa introduced a new approach to and the role of environmental and transportation planning in development. NEMA provides the framework for co-operative environmental governance and promotes the application of environmental assessment and management tools to ensure integrated environmental management of activities. The intention of NEMA was formalized through the publication of the EIA Regulations (2006). On 3 August, 2010 the revised NEMA EIA Regulations were promulgated that included changes in the process, procedure and listing of activities. With the proclamation of the EIA Regulations the need to determine the impact of traffic (TIS or TIA) within a development site (activity in terms of environmental authorization) became an optional addition as a specialist report. The paper includes the methodology and lessons learnt in the process (case study) of traffic impact study (or assessment) (TIS/TIA) formulation. This intricate interface between the environmental impact assessment (EIA) and TIS/TIA processes and formulation are being investigated based on content, application and implementation principles. The paper is concluded with recommendations as how to mitigate the impact of traffic within a development site in context to the EIA process for activity authorization.