ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT OF INDUSTRIAL PARKS

Abstract

Passing through economic crisis Egypt has chosen industrial development parallel to agricultural development to overcome problems of a depreciated economy and high inflation rates. As a new comer to industrialization during Mohammed Ali dynasty Egypt had followed an unsustainable environmental industrial growth pattern. Siting industries on the River Nile and its branches, on fertile agricultural lands, had affected many natural resources, and eventually environmental degradation was reflected on human lives. The problem has been magnified by the lack of public awareness of the industrial hazards, and means to deal with them. This research aims at emphasizing the utilization of an Environmental Impact Assessment process, as a tool for proper environmental planning decision, to mitigate existing areas and prevent similar results of environmental degradation in new areas. A case study of Abu-Qir region is examined as an application of the theoretical part. Abu-Qir Bay, one of the Mediterranean magnificent spots has been

affected following the pattern of unplanned industrial growth in rural areas.

The effects of its deteriorated environment is affecting the human, biological and physical environment. The region pointed by the Comprehensive Plan of Alexandria 2005, as in need of environmental assessment studies, mitigation and monitoring. The study of the area and methods of data gathering and analysis reaching the final recommendations is significant to draw further attention to the region, and prevent repetition of similar industrial siting experiences.