Using offsets to mitigate environmental impacts of major projects: a stakeholder analysis
Date
2016-09-01
Authors
Martin, Nigel
Evans, Megan
Rice, John
Lodhia, Sumit
Gibbons, Philip
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Publisher
Elsevier
Abstract
Global patterns of development suggest that as more projects are initiated, business will need to find acceptable measures to conserve biodiversity. The application of environmental offsets allows firms to combine their economic interests with the environment and society. This article presents the results of a multi-stakeholder analysis related to the design of offsets principles, policies, and regulatory processes, using a large infrastructure projects context. The results indicate that business was primarily interested in using direct offsets and other compensatory measures, known internationally as indirect offsets, to acquit their environmental management obligations. In contrast, the environmental sector argued that highly principled and scientifically robust offsets programs should be implemented and maintained for enduring environmental protection. Stakeholder consensus stressed the importance of offsets registers with commensurate monitoring and enforcement. Our findings provide instructive insights into the countervailing views of offsets policy stakeholders.
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Keywords
biodiversity, business, development projects, environmental offsets, management, policy
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Source
Journal of environmental management
Type
Journal article
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Access Statement
Open Access
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Restricted until
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