What does the baseline study in an EIA measure?

The baseline study in an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) is crucial as it establishes the existing environmental conditions before any development occurs. This comprehensive assessment includes gathering data on various environmental factors such as air and water quality, flora and fauna, soil conditions, and overall ecosystem health. The purpose of this is to create a reference point against which potential impacts of the proposed project can be measured and evaluated.

Understanding the initial environmental conditions is essential for safeguarding biodiversity and ensuring that any potential negative impacts from development are identified and mitigated. Without a baseline study, it would be challenging to ascertain how the project might alter the existing environment, making it a fundamental component of the EIA process.

While assessing economic viability, demographic factors, and historical context can provide valuable information concerning the overall context of a project, they do not form the core focus of the baseline study in an EIA.