IAIA FasTips on Alternatives in Strategic Environmental Assessment of Plans and Programmes

The development and consideration of alternatives—different ways of meeting the objectives of policies, plans, programs (referred to as “plans” hereon)—is at the heart of Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA), and a meaningful way to address environmental issues (not limited to biophysical aspects) while informing and influencing decision-making. However, this has historically been one of the most difficult and poorly done aspects of SEA.