Fuzzy sets and simulated environmental change: evaluating and communicating impact significance in environmental impact assessment

The concept of the <i>significance </i>of effects is a critical yet poorly understood component of environmental impact assessment (EIA). In this paper we explore the potential of fuzzy-set theory and simulations of environmental change for delineating evaluations of impact significance made by a range of stakeholders. The theoretical basis of fuzzy sets is explained and the approach is applied to the noise and visual effects associated with a ‘live’ windfarm EIA case study. In the final part of the paper we critically reflect on the approach before drawing conclusions.