Strategic environmental assessment: one concept, multiple forms

Several approaches to strategic environmental assessment (SEA) have been developed recently, differing, for example, in openness, scope, intensity and duration. Differences stem from the specific contexts in which the SEA processes are meant to be used. This is illustrated with two current SEA processes in the Netherlands for drafting legislation (environmental test), and for plans and programmes (strategic environmental impact assessment). Although design for purpose enhances the effectiveness of SEA, the variety of approaches may also lead to confusion among non-SEA experts, such as politicians and other senior decision makers, about what SEA is. This could create an impediment to the acceptance and development of SEA in situations where currently no obligation for it exists. A set of principles is proposed as a starting point for further discussion.