Public Participation In Eia: A Study From A Portuguese Perspective

This paper focuses on Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) since it was the first and is the most universal instrument requiring public participation in environmental management. After considering the origins of EIA and its relationship to the inherent problems in environment and sustainability, we put it in the context of "The Portuguese Case". Portugal's involvement in the European environmental debate only began after the 1974 revolution. After 40 years of repressive dictatorship, the Portuguese society is characterised by a lack of traditions in civil society, the centralisation of the state, clientelism and bureaucracy. We examine the legal framework for EIA in Portugal and its interaction with various levels of government. Within this context the results of our research work are discussed. The interviews carried out with stakeholders in the Portuguese EIA process show that public participation occurs too late in the process and that the methods of consultation are generally considered inadequate. A growing demand by the public for better systems of consultation is noted. An analysis of the current state of Portuguese EIA is given and, based on this analysis, suggestions for improving the process are made. A brief assessment is made of new legislation (decree law 69/2000) concerning EIA.