Using offsets to mitigate environmental impacts of major projects: A stakeholder analysis

Abstract

Global patterns of development suggest that as more projects are initiated, business will need to find acceptable measures to conserve biodiversity. The application of environmental offsets allows firms to combine their economic interests with the environment and society. This article presents the results of a multi-stakeholder analysis related to the design of offsets principles, policies, and regulatory processes, using a large infrastructure projects context. The results indicate that business was primarily interested in using direct offsets and other compensatory measures, known internationally as indirect offsets, to acquit their environmental management obligations. In contrast, the environmental sector argued that highly principled and scientifically robust offsets programs should be implemented and maintained for enduring environmental protection. Stakeholder consensus stressed the importance of offsets registers with commensurate monitoring and enforcement. Our findings provide instructive insights into the countervailing views of offsets policy stakeholders.

Megaproject Environmentally Responsible Behavior in China: A Test of the Theory of Planned Behavior

“…This is specifically related to the problem of environment, natural resources, and ecological protection faced by management in the construction and operation of engineering projects, such as in pollution prevention and control, soil and water conservation, ecological balance, and the protection of endangered flora and fauna [ 11 ]. Previous research into megaproject environmental responsibility mainly focuses on environmental impact assessments [ 12 , 13 ], environmental management procedures [ 14 ], and environmental management strategies [ 15 ], which reflects the amount of attention and concern it has attracted.…”

Integrating species metrics into biodiversity offsetting calculations to improve long‐term persistence

“…Accurate metrics for measuring biodiversity at development and offset sites are required to deliver the requisite conservation benefits (Maron et al, 2012; Marshall, Wintle, et al, 2020). Directly measuring and quantifying species outcomes is challenging, so habitat‐based surrogates are commonly used in lieu of measuring outcomes for all species (Martin et al, 2016). These surrogates generally consist of simple, easily assessed habitat features which contribute towards an overall site condition score (Harwood et al, 2016).…”

Stakeholder Networking Analysis on Umbulan Water Supply Project: An Exploratory Study Combined With Meta-Analysis Identification Design

“…The objective of this network analysis is to determine key stakeholders involved in project implementation, measure stakeholder network capacity through the domain of collaborative network development, and analyze the capacity supporting factors needed and need to be developed to support project implementation (Zarghami & Dumrak, 2020). Establishment of networks based on formal and non-formal local alliances from the executive and legislative institutions of various elements and levels, local profit and non-profit business entities at various levels, social and independent organizations and other institutional structures (Martin, et. al., 2016).…”