Evaluación de impacto ambiental

Instrumento de política pública.

Abstract

This article presents the fundamental theoretical and methodological elements of the discussion surrounding the environmental impact study (EIS) as an analytical tool and, above all, as an instrument for public policy-making. The paper analyses the application of such studies in Mexico. An attempt is made to demonstrate that certain factors exist in Mexico which reduce the effectiveness of the EIS as an aid to decision-making. These factors include the lack of coordination with other instruments of environmental policy-making, the overwhelming power of the Federal authorities to influence the nature of the EIS, and the almost nil capability of the local authorities and interested or affected groups to offset such influence and defend their interests.