Which statement distinguishes offsetting within the mitigation hierarchy?

• A. It should replace avoidance.
• B. It is used only when costs are low.
• C. It is used after avoidance, minimization, and restoration.
• D. It has no role in EIA.

Answer: (C)

Offsetting fits into the mitigation hierarchy as a later step to address residual, unavoidable impacts after exploring all opportunities to avoid, minimize, and restore the environment. The sequence is intentional: first you prevent harm, then you reduce it as much as possible, then you repair what was damaged, and only after those steps do you consider offsetting to compensate for what cannot be avoided or repaired. This approach aims for no net loss (or even a net gain) in ecological value by providing habitat or other conservation benefits elsewhere to offset the remaining harm. Costs or affordability aren’t the driving factor; it’s about addressing residual impacts in the established sequence. Offsetting is a recognized part of Environmental Impact Assessments as a planned element of mitigation.