Abstract
Linear facilities such as road networks; railway lines; pipelines; powerlines; and mining convey or
belts can have adverse environmental impacts across the communities and the environment they
traverse. The construction and operation of these facilities is usually associated with a wide range of
adverse environmental impacts along their longitudinal paths on water resources, ambient air quality,
biodiversity and even human health. This study has provided an assessment of the quality of
environmental impact assessment reports (EIARs) involving the environmental authorization of
selected linear infrastructure and associated activities in the Limpopo province of South Africa. This
assessment was conducted by means of a modified Lee and Colley Review Package that was applied
to 10 different Basic Assessment Reports, in keeping with the requirements of the 2010 EIA
Regulations promulgated in South Africa.
The results of this research show that 70% (7/10) of EIARs achieved an overall quality score of “C”,
while 20% (2/10) were assigned a “B’ quality rating. Only 10% (1/10) of the reviewed EIARs were
assigned an overall “D” quality rating. Weaknesses in the reviewed EIARs were identified based on
the high number of EIARs which were classified in the “D-F” group meanwhile areas of strengths
featured in the “A-C” category. Poor analyses and assessment of impact significance, clumsy
presentation styles and inadequate provisions for proper waste management emerged as areas of
weakness. On the other hand, environmental and project descriptions, identification and evaluation of
key impacts, sheer identification of project alternatives and impact mitigation were some of the few
areas of strengths that were noted in the reviewed EIARs. In view of the weaknesses and strengths
highlighted in this research as well as overall quality patterns, a number of recommendations have
been suggested for improved EIA report writing and better environmental decision-making
outcomes.
M.Sc. (Environmental Management)