The process includes the following key stages:

1. Preparation of Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) materials

The project developer analyzes the potential environmental impacts of the proposed activity. Based on these assessments, Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) materials are prepared. These documents evaluate the project’s potential effects on the environment, public health, and the ecological condition of the area and identify measures to prevent, mitigate, and compensate for possible adverse impacts.

2. Public consultations

The prepared EIA materials are submitted for public discussion. During public consultations, citizens, experts, and other stakeholders provide comments, opinions, and recommendations regarding the project. Following the consultations, an official record (minutes) is prepared and approved in accordance with the established procedure and attached to the set of documents submitted for the State Environmental Expertise.

3. State Environmental Expertise review

Environmental experts of the Center for State Environmental Expertise examine the submitted EIA materials, including the record of public consultations, to ensure compliance with applicable legal requirements. The review assesses the environmental safety of project implementation, its conformity with environmental regulations and standards, as well as potential environmental and social risks and the measures proposed to prevent or mitigate them.

4. Issuance of the State Environmental Expertise conclusion

Based on the results of the review, an official conclusion is issued on whether the project may or may not be implemented. This conclusion serves as the legal basis for approving or refusing the proposed activity.