Ash Ecology

Ecological Impact Assessment

Comprehensive assessment of ecological impacts beyond Natura 2000 designations. Covering nationally protected species, habitats, and ecological receptors under Irish and EU law.

What is Ecological Impact Assessment?

Ecological Impact Assessment (EcIA) evaluates the potential effects of a development on all ecological features — not just Natura 2000 sites. While AA Screening and NIS focus specifically on SACs and SPAs, EcIA addresses impacts on species protected under the Wildlife Acts, habitats of ecological value, hedgerows, watercourses, and the wider ecological network.

EcIA follows the CIEEM Guidelines for Ecological Impact Assessment (2018) and is required for projects subject to Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) or where the planning authority requests a comprehensive ecological evaluation.

Beyond Natura 2000: Many species protected under Irish law — including badger, all bat species, and birds — are not covered by AA Screening. EcIA fills this gap, ensuring your development addresses all ecological obligations.

What We Assess

Protected Species

Badger, all 9 Irish bat species, Pine Marten, Red Squirrel, Otter, breeding birds, amphibians, and plants protected under the Wildlife Acts and Flora Protection Order.

Habitats & Vegetation

Habitat mapping to Fossitt (2000), assessment of hedgerows, treelines, wetlands, woodland, and watercourses. Identification of Annex I habitat types.

Impact Evaluation

Assessment of construction and operational impacts using CIEEM significance criteria — magnitude, extent, duration, reversibility, and confidence.

Mitigation & Enhancement

Practical measures to avoid, reduce, and compensate for ecological impacts. Biodiversity enhancement recommendations where appropriate.

Need an Ecological Impact Assessment?

Send your site details and we'll respond with a fixed-price quote within 24 hours.

Get a Quote or call 089 499 1181

Get a Quote

Send your project details — we'll respond with a fixed-price quote, typically within 24 hours.

Prefer to talk?

089 499 1181