A review of refugee environmental-oriented projects in Africa: a case for environmental impact assessment

The refugee situation is examined in relation to its environmental consequences. Few studies apply environmental impact assessment (EIA) techniques to refugee projects and, when they do, it is usually after the camps have been set up. Four important conclusions are that: environmental assessments would provide the data crucial to deciding what local communities and refugees require; environmental education must be locally specific and down-to-earth; a coordinated approach by the various agencies would avoid duplication and waste; and environmental issues must be part of a national framework. The debate will continue as to the impact of refugees on the environment: without empirical data the argument is academic. EIAs would provide the data: EIAs are required for environmentally sound projects. Unsuccessful programs cost as much or more than successful ones: EIAs would increase the success rate. EIAs would be worth the money.