Ecology and Archaeology

Ecology and archaeology are important disciplines in their own right but also can be major elements of environmental impact assessments.  Ecology surveys provide baseline information on the habitats, flora and fauna which occupy the physical area which may be impacted by a particular development or scheme.  Once identified, mitigation measures can be designed to protect particularly sensitive or important habitats or species, and so preserve the natural environment.

Archaeology surveys identify key anthropological issues such as historic monuments and remains, and identify, for example, sites which may need to be protected to preserve our cultural heritage.

What is the benefit?

Providing robust data on ecological and archaeological baseline conditions provides the benchmark against which any potential changes can be defined. This is a critical stage in any project involving a new development, demolition or facility upgrading, as it facilitates the quantification of the potential impacts on the natural environment and on our cultural heritage, allowing alternative options to be compared and mitigation measures developed.  Taking ecology, for example, the baseline survey may have identified the presence of rare or endangered species within the project area.  Once identified, the species can be protected through preservation of its habitat or by translocating the population to a safer location.

Why CRA?

CRA provides a full service approach to environmental impact assessment including the provision of ecology and archaeology surveys, and subsequent recommendations for mitigation.  CRA fosters a one team approach whereby the site developer, CRA consultants and our subcontractors work together with common aims and objectives for safe and cost effective project completion.

CRA has carried out a number of ecological and archaeological surveys as part of wider environmental impact assessments for a number of clients in oil and gas, land development and manufacturing.

For additional information on how CRA could help you, please contact Nicole Gilmore on ngilmore@cra.co.uk or 0115 965 6700.