Is integrated

Ensures an appropriate environmental assessment of all strategic decisions relevant for the achievement of sustainable development.

Addresses the interrelationships of biophysical, social and economic aspects.

Is tiered to policies in relevant sectors and (transboundary) regions and, where appropriate, to project EIA and decision making.

Is sustainability-led

Facilitates identification of development options and alternative proposals that are more sustainable.

Is focused

Provides sufficient, reliable and usable information for development planning and decision-making.

Concentrates on key issues of sustainable development.

Is customized to the characteristics of the decision making process.

Is cost- and time-effective.

Is accountable

Is the responsibility of the leading agencies for the strategic decision to be taken.

Is carried out with professionalism, rigor, fairness, impartiality and balance.

Is subject to independent checks and verification.

Documents and justifies how sustainability issues were taken into account in decision making.

Is participative

Informs and involves interested and affected public and government bodies throughout the decision making process.

Explicitly addresses their inputs and concerns in documentation and decision-making.

Has clear, easily-understood information requirements and ensures sufficient access to all relevant information.

Is iterative

Ensures availability of the assessment results early enough to influence the decision making process and inspire future planning.

Provides sufficient information on the actual impacts of implementing a strategic decision, to judge whether this decision should be amended and to provide a basis for future decisions.