Document background
The Strategic Environmental Assessment Report is a mandatory environmental assessment tool in Ireland, required under the European SEA Directive 2001/42/EC and Irish implementing regulations. It must be prepared for plans and programmes likely to have significant effects on the environment, particularly in sectors such as agriculture, forestry, energy, industry, transport, waste management, water management, telecommunications, tourism, and town and country planning. The document serves as a systematic decision support tool, ensuring environmental considerations are fully integrated into the preparation and adoption of plans and programmes. It includes comprehensive environmental baseline data, impact assessments, alternatives analysis, mitigation measures, and monitoring proposals. The report must undergo public consultation and receive approval from relevant environmental authorities before the associated plan or programme can be adopted.
