Which phase involves evaluating whether the project is environmentally sound before approval?

• A. Data Gathering.
• B. Scoping.
• C. EIA Review and Evaluation phase.
• D. Monitoring.

Answer: (C)

Evaluating environmental soundness before approval happens in the EIA Review and Evaluation phase. In this stage, the findings of the environmental impact assessment are scrutinized by authorities (and often the public) to determine whether the anticipated impacts are adequately understood, whether proposed mitigation measures are feasible and effective, and whether the project meets regulatory requirements. This review decides if the project should be approved, modified, or halted before any permit is granted.

Data gathering focuses on collecting baseline environmental information, but it doesn’t decide on approval. Scoping defines which issues and impacts will be studied and sets the study boundaries. Monitoring occurs after implementation to check ongoing performance and compliance, not before approval.