What is the geographical scope of the environmental effects (i.e., local, regional, national, transnational)?
The geographical scope is an indicator of significance for an environmental effect. • What is the magnitude of the effect (i.e., inconsequential, minor, moderate, major, extreme, or catastrophic)? The larger the magnitude of an effect, the larger its significance. • What is the frequency and the duration of the effects? The frequency of an environmental effect, whether it has a one-time occurrence or whether it will recur over time, will affect the significance of the effect. The determination about the significance of an effect should also be considered with other factors, as a one-time occurrence can be extremely significant if the effect is also severe and irreversible. • Is the effect irreversible? The ability to alleviate or reduce an effect provides opportunities for mitigation of negative effects. It is critical to identify whether an adverse environment effect is irreversible, as this increases its significance and conflicts with the concept of sustainable development. Section
