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Abstract
Finnish biodiversity impact assessment practices between 1995 and 2001 were evaluated using qualitative document analysis and an ecological and biodiversity index. The 38 reports reviewed represented project types that usually cause the most severe impacts on flora, fauna and habitats. The results demonstrate a number of shortcomings that are very similar to those reported in earlier reviews but there are also some findings in contrast with earlier studies from the UK. The most severe shortcomings are too few new surveys, weak connection between baseline studies and impact prediction, and neglect of indirect and cumulative impacts on biodiversity. Compared to earlier reviews, the proposed mitigation measures were more ecological and detailed. Also, the need for monitoring was addressed more often than in the UK. Proposals for monitoring programmes were proposed, but were very vague. To improve the quality of treatment of ecological issues, the Finnish Environment Institute is preparing national guidelines for biodiversity impact assessment.
