This study aims to develop an approach for linking ecological and water-environment reviews in follow-up environmental impact surveys for effective aquatic ecosystem management.
Follow-up environmental impact surveys are an important means of identifying environmental changes caused by development projects and improving post-management measures. This study aims to develop an approach for linking ecological and water-environment reviews in follow-up environmental impact surveys for effective aquatic ecosystem management.
Cases of follow-up environmental impact survey reports were analyzed to identify major issues requiring ecological-water environment linkages according to project type and site characteristics. The analysis focused on changes in aquatic species and legally protected species, water quality, flow, habitat conditions, and mitigation measures. In particular, changes in species occurrence and diversity need to be examined together with water quality, flow, water temperature, channel connectivity, and other habitat conditions.
Based on these findings, this study proposes considerations for linking ecological and water-environment reviews, including the characterization of major water systems, adjustment of survey items, locations and periods, integrated analysis of survey results, and evaluation of mitigation effectiveness. A checklist for reviewing follow-up survey reports and considerations for incorporating ecological-water environment linkages into follow-up survey plans are also proposed. These approaches are expected to contribute to more effective monitoring of aquatic habitat changes and strengthen the practical management functions of follow-up environmental impact surveys.
Has been working at the Korea Environment Institute (KEI) since 2009.
Reviews post-project environmental impact assessment reports regarding socio-economic environments and health impacts.