Interpretation of definitions of project categories of annex I and II of the EIA Directive

The objective of Directive 2011/92/EU on the assessment of the effects of certain public and private projects on the environment (the 'Environmental Impact Assessment Directive', or 'EIA Directive') is to ensure that projects that are likely to have a significant effect on the environment are adequately assessed before they are approved. Before any decision is taken to permit such a project to proceed, the possible impacts it may have on the environment (either from its construction and/or operation as well as decommissioning/demolition) are to be identified and assessed. The EIA Directive also ensures the participation of environmental authorities and the public in environmental decision-making procedures. In particular, concerned members of the public must be given the opportunity to comment on any proposal while all options are still open before a final decision is taken by the competent authority on a request for development consent. When approving a project, the competent authority is required to take into consideration the results of consultations and to inform the public, notably on the measures envisaged to avoid, prevent or reduce and, if possible, offset significant environmental impacts. The public must be informed of the decision to authorize the project and can challenge it before the courts.