[2013] DAMONTE, Gerardo. Improving Environmental Management of Extractives through Environmental Impact Assessments. ELLA. Economic Development, Extractive Industries and Land Use, Policy Brief 3.

Is it possible to develop extractive industries while preserving the environment? Several Latin American countries have been attempting to improve the environmental sustainability of their extractive industry sectors by developing their legal frameworks, in particular through the use and adaptation of the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) tool. This Brief focuses primarily on experiences in Peru, where integration of the EIA into extractive industry policy has been extensive. The Brief focuses on three particularly noteworthy innovations implemented in Peru: mine closure plans; regulation and approval mechanisms; and citizen participation. Overall, the Brief aims to offer an understanding of the advances, challenges and debates around the implementation of EIAs when seeking a balance between environmental sustainability and extractive sector development. The lessons drawn from Peru and other Latin American countries may be useful for other regions struggling to balance extractive industry development with environmentally sustainable approaches to land use.