In the process of environmental impact assessment, the Ministry of Environment recognized the importance of reflecting residents' opinions, and flexibility of expanding assessment range of subjects in environmentally sensitive areas for effective environmental preservation and protection. In response, the Ministry made an official announcement on Feb. 22, 2003, that revisions will be made in the enforcement ordinance and regulations of the impact assessment on the environment, transportation, natural disaster.

After the revised Act becomes effective, residents may participate and voice their opinions in the process of the Environment Impact Assessment, by viewing the preliminary statement posted on the website. The preliminary statement is aimed at collecting and adequately reflecting the opinions and interests of the residents in the main statement. Also, participation is not only made online, but also through the newspapers and public seminars. The opinions of the residents and relevant institutions are canvassed through writing or through discussions and public forums, which will be incorporated into the main statement.

Up to now, the range of projects subject to the Environment Impact Assessment was limited in its scope, without considering the environmental factors specific to its region. In the revised law, the range of projects will be expanded in its scope, considering the ecosystem preservation areas and Watershed Protection Areas, which are the areas with big environmental impact.

The new revised law announced today will be legislated by March 13, and go through reviews by the Ministry of Legislation and the Regulatory Reform Committee, and will eventually enter into force at the end of June 2003.