AFRY's EIA project awarded with Hyvä YVA award 2022
AFRY's EIA project awarded with Hyvä YVA award 2022
The environmental impact assessment procedure of Fingrid's Järvilinja ('lake line') strengthening project (Vaala-Joroinen 400+110 kV) was praised for its comprehensive, reader-friendly and illustrative impact description, identification of traditional environments and special commitment to interaction. AFRY worked as the EIA consultant in the project.
Every year, the Finnish Association for Impact Assessment awards an exemplary and distinguished EIA procedure with the Hyvä YVA award. EIA project manager Ella Kilpeläinen is delighted with the recognition:
It's great to get this kind of recognition for a successful project. The project was challenging and professionally interesting, and we succeeded well. We intend to continue improving EIA procedures further in our future projects.
Comprehensive and illustrative description of environmental impacts
The awarded EIA procedure was praised for a comprehensive description and illustration of the project and its effects. The starting point for the assessment was challenging, as the 291-kilometre power line area extends to 12 municipalities. The jury praised the successful project:
Despite the extensive scope, the EIA material is clear and reader-friendly, including lots of maps and separate studies, as well as the possibility to use electronic tools. In particular, the effects at the local level are easily visible to the reader.
The impact assessment was developed using the practical experience gained from similar types of projects. The progress can be monitored by the criteria used, and the summaries improve the text. The power line project has been illustrated e.g. by using electronic map systems and piloting 3D illustration.
Identifying traditional environments
The jury also appreciated the pilot for the identification of traditional environments in connection with the EIA procedure and encouragement for managing these nature and landscape sites. The project also applied Fingrid's distinguished approach to take into account valuable environmental sites during the design, construction and maintenance of the power line, for example with guideline target cards.
Strong interaction despite the pandemic
The jury also acknowledged the communication and interaction efforts throughout the project:
The communication and creation of interaction was especially thought-through in the project. During the times of pandemic and social distancing, a wide toolbox have been used to reach the different stakeholders.
Other project parties were Fingrid and the ELY Centre of Pohjois-Savo.
