This research seeks to identify the priority competencies required to prepare future environmental professionals to conduct effective EIA. Delphi study will be used, involving Latin-American experts.
This study aims to analyze the knowledge and skills that are essential for training future professionals capable of conducting comprehensive environmental impact assessments using modern strategies, thereby ensuring the strategic sustainability of projects. Studies have already been conducted on how teaching university courses on topics related to environmental impact can contribute to a deeper understanding of these issues, such as the article by Faith-Ell, C., & Kågström, M. (2026), based on their research conducted in Sweden, or the study by Moolman, J, et al. (2026), which analyzes several decades of the integration of EIA-related topics into higher education in South Africa. However, there is a need to study this topic in greater depth in Latin America. For this research, the Delphi methodology will be used to collect data from experts in Latin America. The study will consist of two phases, evaluating the following dimensions: teaching methodologies, curriculum topics, proficiency with tools, the use of artificial intelligence, and other factors identified by the experts. The results are expected to be useful for strengthening educational programs.
References
Faith-Ell, C., & Kågström, M. (2026). Exploring environmental assessment competence in higher education. Impact Assessment and Project Appraisal, 44(4), 328-347.
Moolman, J., Alberts, R. C., Cilliers, D. P., Retief, F. P., & Roos, C. (2026). Reflecting on three decades of environmental impact assessment (EIA) training and research in South Africa. Impact Assessment and Project Appraisal, 1-8.
Johanna Poggi is a university professor, researcher and consultant with more than 20 years of experience in climate change, environmental impact assessment and sustainability.