A leading professional body has published new guidance on how artificial intelligence can be safely and effectively integrated into Environmental Impact Assessments, in a move that could reshape how developers and planners handle large volumes of technical data.
Yesterday the Institute of Sustainability and Environmental Professionals (ISEP) released Using AI in EIA, a report led by Alistair Walker, Technical Director at Lanpro.
The guidance sets out how AI can be incorporated into existing EIA workflows, offering practical steps aimed at practitioners but with relevance across the wider planning and development sector.
While AI is already widely used in planning for tasks such as data processing and mapping, its uptake in core parts of the EIA process – including scoping, evaluation and consultation – has been more limited. Concerns over transparency, data confidentiality and the need for professional judgement have slowed adoption.
CLOSING THE AI GAP
The report argues that this gap is likely to close, with AI capable of supporting evidence gathering, identifying patterns in large datasets and running iterative scenario tests.
Used correctly, the technology can improve the consistency of assessments and free up specialist teams to focus on more complex analysis rather than repetitive tasks.
Walker says: “We are moving past the stage of AI being viewed as experimental. Used carefully, it can increase the quality of assessments, reduce repetition and help teams focus on the answers that matter most to our clients.
“Our report stresses that AI should sit within clear governance structures, with safeguards including transparent methodologies, audit trails and human oversight at each stage of the assessment.
“Professional judgement remains central to EIA, with AI functioning as a tool rather than a substitute.”
TARGETED AI USE
And he adds: “The report also highlights the need for proportionate adoption. Not every project requires advanced automation, but complex schemes with extensive datasets can benefit from targeted use of AI, particularly where it improves the clarity of supporting evidence or accelerates scenario testing.
“For developers, the findings suggest that early integration of AI can shorten programme times by streamlining baseline studies and reducing the risk of late data challenges.
“For local authorities, there is potential for greater consistency in submissions and improved scrutiny of technical assessments.
“AI is not a replacement for strong environmental assessment. It is a way to improve it, provided we adopt and utilise it responsibly.”
Download the report HERE.
