Environmental diagnostics

Environmental diagnosis consists of carrying out an audit, at a given moment in time, to identify the sensitive environmental factors of an activity. It is an essential decision-making tool for understanding, managing and measuring the environmental impact of a construction project or activity, and for taking appropriate corrective action.

The EIA (environmental impact assessment) is a procedure carried out prior to the implementation of a large-scale project (development, construction, demolition, etc.). It is a predictive analysis designed to measure the consequences of human action on the environment, as well as the levers to be deployed to minimise or eliminate these harmful effects throughout the life cycle of the building or structure (noise, visual nuisance, water and air quality, pollution, dangers in the event of an incident, impact on the ecosystem and biodiversity, etc.). In other words, this study ensures that environmental considerations are taken into account in all decisions concerning the project.

Carrying out an environmental study is first and foremost a response to the major issues at stake in preserving the planet. It may also be required by local authorities as part of the process of obtaining planning permission. Carrying out an environmental study is also a powerful way of strengthening your company's transparency and encouraging the design of a sustainable project that puts environmental issues at the forefront.

At Apave, we follow a rigorous methodology for carrying out an environmental impact assessment. Once we have received the client's request and identified the expert in charge of the project, we define the project, the scope of the study and the various points to be assessed. The file is then forwarded to the competent body responsible for validating the terms of reference for the environmental assessments and adding any points for observation. The experts then visit the site to carry out the study in accordance with the procedures agreed beforehand. A final report is then drawn up and a public consultation is held. If the assessment reveals any negative impacts, we make proposals to limit, cancel or compensate for them.

Any construction, development or demolition project may be subject to an environmental impact assessment. This assessment must be carried out by an approved third-party organisation. The study must be carried out as far upstream as possible to ensure that all environmental considerations are taken into account right from the project design phase.