Innovative elements and expected effectiveness of the 1991 eia convention

The EIA Convention provides new means for international pollution control. While drawing on notions established already in other treaties, in particular the 1974 Nordic Convention, it further advances the duty of states to consider transboundary environmental impact of activities under their jurisdiction. In addition, the EIA Convention provides more specific routines for notification in case of transboundary effects. It also advances the use of EIA, and it gives the concept a more precise meaning in international law. Finally, it enhances the right of the public to take part in EIA procedures in transboundary contexts. The authors argues that the effectiveness of the convention will depend on the participation of the public in the EIA procedures and on the coordination of notification procedures.