With the country’s economic growth, we are also witnessing a rapid rise in urbanization. With more people moving into cities faster than ever in the last few decades, the environment is also being damaged more rapidly.
Though urbanization has become an inevitable part of modern development, it must be done in a way that does not affect the environment. Cities and industries are built to serve the needs of their people, but do they also have a way to sustain themselves?
Therefore, for many reasons, eco-friendly and sustainable urban and industrial development has become the highest priority. And this is precisely why Environmental Clearance is becoming more critical for industries.
Environmental Clearance recommends environmental protection measures to ensure compliance with all environmental aspects of the project.
What is Environmental Clearance (EC)?
Environmental Clearance is a process to get clearance from the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEF&CC) for certain projects listed in the Schedule of EIA Notification like steel plants, ethanol plants, sugar plants, asbestos plants, mining, thermal power plants, infrastructure, township construction, etc.
Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) is mainly conducted to assess the impacts of industrial projects on the environment and people. This is a pre-requisite that all bankers will insist on before the disbursement of the loan.
Why do you need an Environmental Clearance?
Environmental Clearance is for any new or expansion projects listed in the Schedule of EIA Notification issued by MOEF&CC, 2006, and its amendments thereof require Environmental Clearance from the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MOEF&CC).
If you’re an industrialist or businessman who has received EC for your projects, it is a sign that your clients, and other people including bankers can trust you. Working towards sustainable projects and business practices is a critical aspect of Corporate Environment Responsibility.
What are the Categories of the Certification?
All the development projects are categorized into Category A (National level appraisal) and Category B (State level appraisal).
● Category A projects are appraised at the National level by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MOEF&CC).
● Category B projects are appraised at the state level by the State Environmental Impact Assessment Authority (SEIAA) & State Expert Appraisal Committee (SEAC).
● Category B projects are classified into two types:
I. Category B1 projects (requires EIA Report with public hearing).
II. Category B2 projects (Do not require EIA Report and Public Hearing).
Thus, Category A projects and Category B1 projects undergo the complete EIA process with Public Hearing, whereas Category B2 projects are excluded from the entire EIA process and Public Hearing.
The Category of the projects can be referred from the Schedule of EIA Notification issued by MOEF&CC, 2006.
For Detailed Information, visit: Environmental Clearance PDF
When to apply for an Environmental Clearance?
Recognizing the importance of environmental impact and ensuring compliance with all applicable laws, it is advisable to approach a consultant and apply for an Environmental clearance at least 12 months before the project’s anticipated commencement of construction date.
Validity of EC – 10 years from the date the EC is granted.
What to do after obtaining an Environmental Clearance?
i) CTE (Consent to Establish)/ CFE (Consent for Establishment) are essential documents that need to be applied and obtained from SPCB after receiving the environmental clearance for the project. This is required prior to the commencement of the construction of the project.
ii) CTO (Consent to Operate) / CFO (Consent for Operation) needs to be applied 3-4 months prior to the expected date of commencement of operations and has to be renewed periodically.
What other measures should the project proponent take to ensure compliance with environmental clearance conditions?
Project authorities must also submit a Half-Yearly Environmental Compliance Report twice a year. That is on the 1st of June and 1st of December, to MoEF/SEIAA and Regional offices of MoEF&CC for monitoring of the project during the construction and operation phases.
Obtaining an Environmental Clearance is not an easy task. You will need experts to guide you through the deadlines, someone to manage reports and paperwork, and most importantly, there are many steps involved in obtaining it.
Whether you are looking for Environmental Clearance for Steel Plant, Coal washery, Sugar Plant or Distillery, Cement Plant, Asbestos plant, Mining or Construction & Area Development projects, we provide Environmental Compliance Services to a broad spectrum of companies.
Pioneer Enviro is one of the leading Environmental Consulting Firms in India, and we have successfully assisted in obtaining Environmental Clearance for 750+ projects across the country.
If you’re looking for a company that can effectively guide you with obtaining EC, then we’re here to help. We offer hassle-free environmental consultation. Contact us today!
