Which of the following is a benefit of conducting an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA)?

Conducting an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) serves several crucial purposes that enhance the planning and execution of projects. The primary benefit is that it informs decision-making and effectively allows for the identification and mitigation of negative environmental impacts that a proposed project may have.

The EIA process systematically evaluates the potential environmental consequences of a project, providing key insights that stakeholders can use in their planning and development processes. By highlighting significant environmental effects, decision-makers are better equipped to implement strategies that avoid or minimize harm, ensuring sustainable development practices. This proactive approach helps balance economic growth with environmental stewardship.

In contrast, options that suggest complete elimination of environmental damage or guaranteed maintenance of project timelines do not accurately represent the EIA's role. The EIA cannot ensure that all environmental damage is averted, as some impacts may be unavoidable, and it does not dictate project schedules. Additionally, while project profitability can be influenced by environmental considerations, increasing profit margins is not a primary goal of the EIA process. The focus lies instead on safeguarding the environment and ensuring informed decision-making.