Introduction to Social Impact Assessment资料文件与下载

The readings in this module are prioritized by order.

COMMENTARY 

We were unable to gain free access to this book excerpt for MOOC participants. For those without institutional access, we summarize the main points below.

In this reading, four separate sections (pages 1 - 9, 22 - 24, 37 - 40, and 82-86) of his book, Social Impact Assessment: An Introduction, C. J. Barrow defines a social impact as a “significant or lasting change in people’s lives brought about by a given action or actions” and social impact assessment (SIA) as the “systematic, iterative, ideally ex-ante, assessment of such changes.” Barrow’s introduction reveals SIA to be a less well-defined process than EIA due in part to its more recent emergence as an analytical tool. While often incorporated into required EIAs, SIA can also be conducted outside of the EIA process. Developers are increasingly using separate SIAs to understand the social, cultural, and economic impacts of development projects.

Barrow highlights the goals of a well-crafted SIA 

• Mitigate the social impacts of proposed developments 

• Explore and maximize positive impacts 

• Document examples of past development that will allow for improvements in future development 

Barrow lays out an eight step process for conducting an SIA (similar to the steps in an EIA): scoping, formulation of alternatives, profiling, projection, assessment, evaluation, mitigation, and monitoring. He suggests that the design and implementation of a robust management regime should be the final step in a comprehensive SIA process. Barrow also argues that SIAs involve both “art and a science,” and benefit from the inclusion of qualitative social analysis. He warns that over-reliance on quantitative assessment risks obscuring important insights that can be gleaned from first-hand observation.

As of yet, there is no standard SIA methodology. Barrow notes that most SIAs begin with an effort to describe the status quo and then move on to projecting future conditions with or without the proposed development. He divides the vast array of SIA techniques into two categories: extrapolative and normative. These span the spectrum from quantitative tools such as trend analysis and modeling, to more qualitative, inclusionary methods, such as simulations, gaming, and group brainstorming. As most SIAs are part of time-sensitive planning efforts, they must use techniques that can provide results on a rushed schedule.

Reflection questions:

1. SIAs are intended to minimize negative social impacts and maximize positive social benefits. What are ways in which socially-responsible real estate development can achieve positive social benefits ?

2. Public involvement is a key ingredient in socially responsible real estate development. How can developers ensure that the public has a meaningful role in the shaping of a SIA ?

3. For Barrow, SIAs involve both “art and a science.” Do you agree? What does this distinction mean for the practice of SIA?

READING

Social Impact Assessment: An Introduction