What is a core function of mitigation measures in EIA?

• A. To increase project speed.
• B. To relocate communities.
• C. To enhance public relations.
• D. To reduce or offset potential environmental impacts.

Answer: (D)

Mitigation measures in Environmental Impact Assessment aim to prevent or lessen the negative environmental effects of a proposed project, and when impacts can’t be avoided, to compensate for them. The best choice reflects that purpose: they are there to reduce or offset potential environmental impacts. This follows the mitigation approach of avoiding impacts where possible, minimizing the remaining effects, and restoring or offsetting what can’t be avoided. For example, redesigning a project to protect a sensitive habitat, adding noise barriers to reduce disturbance, or creating habitat elsewhere to compensate for loss. The other options describe outcomes like speeding up the project, relocating communities, or improving publicity, none of which are about reducing environmental harm.