Public engagement in strategic environmental assessment: What does it take?
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| Title: | Public engagement in strategic environmental assessment: What does it take? |
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| Authors: | González, Ainhoa1 (AUTHOR) ainhoa.gonzalez@ucd.ie, Vargas, Gloriana1 (AUTHOR), Therivel, Riki2 (AUTHOR), L'Estrange, David3 (AUTHOR), King, Turlough4 (AUTHOR) |
| Source: | Journal of Environmental Planning & Management. Jul2026, Vol. 69 Issue 8, p2489-2510. 22p. |
| Subjects: | Participation, Community involvement, Decision making, Political participation, Environmental protection planning |
| Abstract: | The requirements for public consultation in strategic environmental assessment (SEA) imply explicit engagement with affected and interested individuals and communities. However, efforts to engage the lay public are often limited; when pursued, they are often within plan-making rather than SEA consultation. While the importance and value of public input in SEA are internationally recognised, with emphasis on the need for more dedicated action in this regard, little is known about the outcomes of more concerted efforts. This article describes, examines and reflects on the relevance and impact of encouraging public engagement in SEA that goes above and beyond statutory requirements. The key finding is that despite the openness and determination of the planning and SEA teams to engage the public, dedicated measures elicited only minimal participation, although the resulting comments were meaningful. Increased awareness and participation skills are needed for the public to actively and effectively take part in decision-making. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] |
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| Database: | Engineering Source |
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| Abstract: | The requirements for public consultation in strategic environmental assessment (SEA) imply explicit engagement with affected and interested individuals and communities. However, efforts to engage the lay public are often limited; when pursued, they are often within plan-making rather than SEA consultation. While the importance and value of public input in SEA are internationally recognised, with emphasis on the need for more dedicated action in this regard, little is known about the outcomes of more concerted efforts. This article describes, examines and reflects on the relevance and impact of encouraging public engagement in SEA that goes above and beyond statutory requirements. The key finding is that despite the openness and determination of the planning and SEA teams to engage the public, dedicated measures elicited only minimal participation, although the resulting comments were meaningful. Increased awareness and participation skills are needed for the public to actively and effectively take part in decision-making. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] |
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| ISSN: | 09640568 |
| DOI: | 10.1080/09640568.2025.2505183 |
