Application of a method for the environmental impact assessment of university construction projects

Environmental impact assessment refers to the evaluation of the effects likely to arise from a major project (or other action) significantly affecting the natural and man-made environment. It is an analytical process that systematically examines the possible environmental consequences of the implementation of projects, programmes and policies, taking into account inter-related socioeconomic, cultural and human-health impacts, both beneficial and adverse. Numerous methodologies (tools) have been utilized to meet the various activities required in the conduction of an environmental impact study. The objectives of the various activities differ, as do the usable methods for the accomplishing the activities. There is no standardized methodology of environmental impact assessment. However, a framework of principles to guide strategies, methods and techniques has been more or less recognized by the scientific community and included in legislation and directives in various countries. In Costa Rica the most common environmental impact assessment correspond to the one developed by the SETENA (National Environmental Office). With the main objective to assess the environmental impact of the construction projects at the university, the SETENA methodology was applied. The magnitude of the environmental factors, aspects and components for each project was determined. This research also allowed to obtain and analyze the magnitude of the environmental impact for each project based on: number of environmental aspects, specific environmental policies, geographic location and the application of environmental guides. Projects were identified according to their environmentally significant components, construction sizes and magnitude of the environmental impact. The relationship between the quantity of significant environmental aspects for each project and its final meaning of environmental impact, was analyzed.