Which area classification triggers the EIA system under EO 42?

• A. People's houses.
• B. Environmentally critical areas.
• C. Urban centers.
• D. Protected historical sites.

Answer: (B)

The main concept here is that the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) system is triggered when a project is located in an environmentally sensitive zone called an environmentally critical area. These areas are identified because they have high ecological value or are crucial for environmental functions, such as maintaining watersheds, biodiversity, or natural resources. When a project sits in such a zone, the EIA process is required to assess potential impacts, propose mitigations, and guide approval to prevent significant environmental harm.

That’s why the correct choice fits best: it targets environmentally critical areas, which are the specific classifications that activate the EIA review under EO 42. The other options—residences, urban centers, or protected historical sites—may have protections or separate permitting rules, but they do not, by themselves, automatically trigger the EIA system under this EO.