Screening for Appropriate Assessment

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What is this assessment?

Screening for Appropriate Assessment (AA) ensures that plans and projects don't adversely affect the integrity of Natura 2000 sites. These include Special Areas of Conservation (SACs) and Special Protection Areas (SPAs). It is a crucial step for environmental protection.

Legal basis: The EU Habitats Directive (92/43/EEC)

What is the process?

Screening for an Appropriate Assessment in Ireland is a structured process, involving the following steps:

Initial screening

The first step is determining whether a proposed plan or project is likely to have significant effects on a Natura 2000 site. This is referred to as Stage 1 Screening.

The assessment considers

  • The characteristics of the project
  • The location
  • Potential impacts on the environment

Data gathering

Tools like the Appropriate Assessment GeoTool can assist in gathering relevant data about nearby SACs and SPAs. The Appropriate Assessment GeoTool allows you to identify these sites based on their proximity to the project. You can access the AA GeoTool through the EPA's website.

Assessment of effects

If significant effects are identified during Stage 1, a more detailed Stage 2 Appropriate Assessment is required. This stage involves a thorough analysis of potential impacts on the Natura 2000 site. It must consider both direct and indirect effects.

Mitigation measures

The assessment explores possible mitigation measures to avoid or reduce identified impacts. Sometimes no feasible alternatives exist. If the project is deemed necessary for public interest, it may proceed under specific derogation provisions.

Submitting your assessment

The results of this assessment should be submitted as part of your report to the relevant planning authority. The findings from both stages must be documented comprehensively in an Appropriate Assessment report. It outlines the assessment process, findings and mitigation strategies.

Supporting information