This book gives guidance on the steps and studies needed to undertake an EIA and to produce a successful Environmental Statement. It is written for planners, developers and communities who need sufficient introduction to EIA to know what needs to be prepared, who needs to prepare it and when it needs to be prepared by. It is an approachable and practical guide, with many illustrated explanations and examples, written from the practitioner's perspective. The guidance presents the requirements to the EIA procedures in the UK in a practical format, illustrated with case examples.Each environmental topic is discussed, methodologies for assessing effects are indicated, and the characteristics of selected development types are described. The handbook approach has been designed with cross-referencing, checklists and sources, which also makes it suitable for easy reference and as a valuable introductory text as well as a useful reference tool for the EIA practitioner.The handbook will: present the requirements of EIA according to the UK EIA Regulations in a readily usable and practical way; inspire and share experience towards good EIA practice by a practical handbook format illustrated with case studies; inform and guide the use of EIA early and effectively in the development design and land use planning processes; and demonstrate the advantages of improvements in EIA practice to facilitate better informed planning decisions.