impact assessment topics
Other IA Topics
other Impact assessment topics
More to discover: Emerging and cross-cutting IA Topics
Impact assessment (IA) is an interdisciplinary, evolving field that extends well beyond any single category. In addition to our featured focus areas, IAIA members and practitioners engage with a wide variety of emerging, cross-cutting, and niche topics.
Many of these topics overlap with, or fall within, the broader categories already highlighted on this site — demonstrating how interconnected IA issues are and how they often require integrated approaches. These additional topics reflect innovation in practice, respond to global challenges, and illustrate how IA can adapt to diverse contexts and needs.

Why impact assessment?
These topics all work toward the same goal: BETTER DECISIONS FOR PEOPLE AND THE PLANET.
Here are just a few examples of other IA topics...
Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA)
Applying impact assessment principles to policies, plans, and programs, connecting with governance and implementation systems.
Human Rights Impact Assessment (HRIA)
Identifying, preventing, and mitigating human rights risks and impacts in projects and policies, often complementing social impact or governance assessments.
Impact Assessment Follow-up
Ensuring that commitments made during assessment are implemented, impacts are tracked over time, and management is adjusted as needed to address unforeseen outcomes — critical for accountability and learning.
Economic Impacts & Circular Economy
Assessing how projects influence economies and livelihoods while promoting resource efficiency, waste reduction, and sustainable use of materials.
Transboundary Assessments
Addressing impacts that cross national or regional boundaries, requiring international cooperation, often tied to governance and conflict.
Psycho-Social Impact Assessment (PSIA)
Examining how projects affect mental health, emotional well-being, and social relationships, often as part of broader social or health impact assessments.
Explore IAIA's resources on these topics...

Human Rights Due Diligence and the Environment
Presenters: Sean O’Connell and Olga Nilova
Recorded: 22 March 2024

IAPA Volume 42, Issue 3 (2024)
Explore IAPA Volume 42 Issue 3, featuring peer-reviewed articles and insights on impact assessment topics. Free access for IAIA members.

IAPA resúmenes de artículos en español (Vol. 42, Núm. 3 – 2024)
Lea los resúmenes del Volumen 42, Número 3, de la IAPA, que incluye artículos y perspectivas sobre evaluación de impacto. Los artículos completos son gratuitos para los miembros de la IAIA.

Top 3 Tips for Positive Leadership in Impact Assessment
Learn 3 practical tips to improve leadership in impact assessment and drive sustainable outcomes in your projects.

IAPA Volume 42, Issue 2 (2024)
Explore IAPA Volume 42 Issue 2, featuring peer-reviewed articles and insights on impact assessment topics. Free access for IAIA members.

IAPA resúmenes de artículos en español (Vol. 42, Núm. 2 – 2024)
Lea los resúmenes del Volumen 42, Número 2, de la IAPA, que incluye artículos y perspectivas sobre evaluación de impacto. Los artículos completos son gratuitos para los miembros de la IAIA.