Who We Are
About IAIA
Positive outcomes for the environment, nature, and societies across the globe
IAIA is the International Association for Impact Assessment, the leading global network on best practice in the use of impact assessment for informed decision making regarding policies, programs, plans, and projects.
IAIA was organized in 1980 to bring together researchers, practitioners, and users of various types of impact assessment from all parts of the world. Our 1300+ individual and corporate members represent over 100 nations and many disciplines and professions. Our annual conferences regularly welcome over 1000 participants, and our regional symposia and other events focus attention on specific topics. Available resources include a professional journal, downloadable publications, training options, and much more.
What is IA?
Impact assessment, simply defined, is the process of identifying the future consequences of a current or proposed action.
Our Values
Environmental stewardship and sustainability
IAIA is a non-profit organization with a voluntary membership of professionals from a diverse array of interests and organizations, all of whom are concerned with environmental stewardship and sustainability. Collectively, our goal is to protect, not harm, the earth and its environments and peoples.
A just and sustainable world for people and the environment.
IAIA provides the international forum to advance best practice and innovation in impact assessment and advocates for its expanded use for the betterment of society and the environment.
IAIA promotes the application of integrated and participatory approaches to impact assessment, conducted to the highest professional standards.
IAIA believes the assessment of the environmental, social, economic, cultural, and health implications for proposals to be a critical contribution to sound decision-making processes, and to equitable and sustainable development.
IAIA is committed to the promotion of sustainability, the freedom of access to information, and the right of citizens to have a voice in decisions that affect them. When we assess the impact of policies, plans, programs, or projects, we promote the free flow of complete, unbiased and accurate information to decision makers and affected parties. We believe that impact assessments should be inclusive and comprehensive, addressing the broader social and health impacts as well as any impacts on the biophysical environment. Respect for human rights and human dignity should underpin all assessments. We acknowledge that we have a duty of care to both present and future generations.
Our History
Impact assessment best practice for over 40 years
IAIA traces its roots to a fateful fortune cookie at a 1980 dinner among colleagues. But that dinner would not have happened if not for the 1970 United States’ National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). The first major environmental law of its kind, NEPA required federal agencies to assess and consider the environmental impacts of their actions through detailed Environmental Impact Statements. But what was the best way to conduct assessments to meet these new requirements?
From its beginnings as an idea shared over dinner, IAIA has grown into the leading global network for impact assessment professionals, promoting sustainability and informed decision-making worldwide. Keep reading for the full story.
donations
Support IAIA's mission
Your contribution makes a difference. The support of generous individuals, organizations, and governments allows us to expand access to educational resources, enable participation in international conferences and workshops, and deliver targeted training programs to professionals around the world.
