Application of Mathematical Matrices for Environmental Impact Assessment, A Case Study of Thermal Power Plant

Abstract

Environmental Impact Assessment plays a crucial role in environmental land use planning and has been known as the most effective approach to identifies proposed impacts of the projects and followed that proposing mitigation measures. Mathematical matrix is one of the environmental impact assessment methods that has been used extensively since it provides incorporate impact compensation factors, expert discussion, and provide more objective and practical feedback. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the environmental impacts of the Bistoon thermal power plant located in the west of Iran using the matrix method and proposing mitigation measures for minimizing the adverse effects. First, the activities of the project were identified. Then, environmental components, including physical environment, biological environment, socio-economic environment, were analyzed using maps and field checks. The impacts of the project activities were predicted on the environment and quantified using the mathematical matrix method. The results illustrated that the importance of effects is in a medium and low range; therefore, the status of the project is not very serious and can be verified by implementing a series of remedial actions and environmental improvement plans.