ABSTRACT
This chapter provides an introduction to selected tools and assessment methodologies which all require more detailed explanation and practical experience to be used effectively. It draws attention to particular tools and methods that are known to be effective in raising awareness among those using them, even if they do not necessarily suggest clear solutions. The chapter aims to emphasis on assessing and monitoring the challenges we face rather than ‘managing’ them. Environmental impact assessment refers to a study of the possible environmental impacts of a proposed project to be carried out before the project begins. The chapter demonstrates that: selected assessment and monitoring tools can raise awareness of environmental and social challenges. The inventory stage can be seen as brainstorming phase and impact assessments then shine a light on the things that most urgently need attention. The biggest challenge comes in final ‘improvement assessment’ stage and this is where opportunities to complete cycle of cradle-to-cradle need to be considered.
