Abstract: Environmental Assessment is an inherently interdisciplinary and increasingly important legal mechanism that is concerned with the input and quality of information about the likely effects of development upon the environment. It is a useful tool for examining aspects of the relationship between law, governance, and the regulation of decision-making, which have been central to the development of environmental law. In this book, the procedural mechanism of environmental assessment is analyzed theoretically and historically. The book argues that, notwithstanding its procedural nature, environmental assessment is highly material to the outcome of a decision. A major focus of this analysis is the enhanced role of the developer in shaping the outcome of a decision by assuming responsibility for providing information on which a decision will be based, in accordance with a broader agenda of expanding the roles and responsibilities of participants in environmental decision-making. The book draws upon several contemporary projects as case studies: a global port, an offshore windfarm, a flood defence strategy, and a recreation centre. In analyzing these sites of decision making from a legal perspective, the book touches upon the key determinants of environmental assessment: discretion, the significance of environmental effects, alternative options, and participatory rights. Finally, the volume looks to the future development of environmental assessment: as an avenue for protest, and, alternatively, as a standardized component of international contracts for development.

Keywords: environmental assessment, development, law, governance, decision-making, environmental law, global port, offshore windfarm, flood defence strategy, recreation centre