Learning from transboundary environmental impact assessment under the Espoo Convention: a case of the Neman Hydropower Plant, Belarus

Transboundary environmental impact assessment (TEIA) is becoming widespread; however, there is still little evidence about its implementation and usefulness in countries in transition, especially where TEIA builds on the convergence of distinct environmental assessment systems. This paper reviews the performance of the Belarusian-Lithuanian TEIA of the Neman Hydropower Plant in order to identify and discuss its strengths and weaknesses across various organizational and procedural aspects and to make suggestions for improvement. The Espoo Convention proved to be capable of bridging two assessment systems. Certain difficulties with implementing some of its provisions were tackled in a doing-by-learning manner. The greatest problems were associated with the lack of screening practice in Belarus, delayed assessment process undermining its usefulness, misunderstanding of what informal cooperation stands for and what constitutes a 'final decision', and limited collaboration in establishing a time frame and duties. The paper suggests learning from these issues and the solutions found.