Environmental Impact Assessment in Portugal: Essential for sustainable projects
- Ana Carolina Santos
- Nov 14
- 3 min read
The Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) is a key evaluation tool in the fields of architecture, urban planning, and construction in Portugal, particularly for those aiming to develop projects fully aligned with legal and environmental standards. Its relevance goes far beyond bureaucracy – it is vital for ensuring sustainability, protecting natural values, and maintaining a balanced relationship between development and the environment.
What is an Environmental Impact Assessment?
The Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) is a technical and scientific document that identifies, analyses, and evaluates the effects that a project may cause on the environment, whether physical, biological, or socioeconomic. The EIA anticipates both positive and negative impacts of a construction or activity, suggesting strategies to mitigate the adverse effects and strengthen the beneficial ones.
The Environmental Impact Assessment ensures a thorough analysis of a project’s environmental impacts, supporting more responsible and sustainable decisions.
Who prepares the Environmental Impact Assessment?
Qualified professionals: The EIA must be prepared by multidisciplinary teams with proven experience in areas such as environment, engineering, architecture, planning, and, depending on project type, also archaeology, biology, or sociology.
External entities or environmental consultancies: Often, specialised and certified firms are engaged to conduct these studies.
Coordination and validation: All teams must comply with applicable laws, and reports are verified and validated by entities such as the Portuguese Environment Agency (APA) and other competent authorities.
What is the purpose of the Environmental Impact Assessment?
Risk and opportunity assessment: Evaluates environmental consequences beforehand, preventing irreversible damage to natural heritage and community wellbeing.
Decision-making tool: Provides a basis for authorities to assess project viability, request adjustments, impose mitigation measures, or reject proposals.
Transparency and public engagement: Guarantees citizens and organisations the right to participate through public consultation and discussion of results.
Sustainable planning: Aligns the project with global sustainable development goals, protecting ecosystems and landscape integrity.
When is the EIA mandatory?
The EIA is mandatory for projects defined under national legal frameworks, particularly for:
Major public or private works (dams, highways, industrial parks, large urban developments, energy infrastructures, etc.).
Projects located in sensitive areas such as protected zones, Natura 2000 Network sites, coastal regions, or productive agricultural land.
Activities with a significant potential to alter the environment, including extraction operations, landfills, or large-scale tourism projects.
The EIA must be submitted at the licensing application stage, before any construction begins. Failure to do so may lead to licence refusal, fines, or restoration orders to revert environmental damage.
Main situations where the EIA is required
Whenever the project falls within categories defined by Decree-Law No. 151-B/2013 or additional legislation.
When the competent authority deems the potential impact significant. In cases of uncertainty, consulting a qualified architecture or environmental team is strongly recommended for preliminary legal and technical evaluation.
EIA Process
Phase | Description |
Screening | Determines whether the EIA is required according to regulations. |
Preparation | The study is developed by specialised professionals. |
Public Consultation | The EIA is made available for public review and opinion. |
Assessment and Decision | The competent authority issues the Environmental Impact Statement (DIA). |
Implementation and Monitoring | Mitigation measures are applied and impacts are monitored. |
Practical Advice
Always consult architects and environmental specialists early to confirm EIA requirements.
Including this evaluation from the project’s initiation can save time, reduce legal costs, and prevent interruptions while adding environmental value.
Remember: Public consultation is a crucial step where collective input can shape the outcome.
Final Considerations
The Environmental Impact Assessment is far more than a legal formality – it represents a commitment to environmental protection and community wellbeing. Construction and architectural projects that prioritise the EIA from the outset are more likely to succeed, reduce regulatory risks, and demonstrate a responsible approach to both society and territory.
Explore more useful insights for those planning to build, rehabilitate, or invest in Portugal on the blog.
