How is Spatial Information Used in Environmental Impact Assessment in Kenya?

Abstract

Spatial information is being increasingly used worldwide within environmental impact assessment (EIA), although the extent of its use has not been exhaustively investigated. Using Kenya as a case study, EIA study reports submitted to the Environment Authority from 2002 to 2013 were investigated for the presence/absence of spatial presentations, levels of visual realism exhibited and content presented. Findings demonstrated a high popularity of spatial information, and preference for the combined use of spatial presentations with low and high levels of visual realism, with no clear preference for spatial presentations with either low or high levels of visual realism. A combination of project location and activities/details was the most popular content in the spatial presentations. Despite the lack of information, this study establishes that indeed spatial information is popular in Kenya and by doing so it sets the stage for further research on its specific use and value to EIA.