Environmental assessment of transport corridors

COWI carried out a strategic environmental assessment of proposed options in connection with the upgrading of the trans-European infrastructure for rail, road, air and water traffic impact on the environment.

Within the framework of TEN-STAC (scenarios, traffic forecasts and analyses of corridors on the Trans-European Transport Network), COWI was asked to assess the likely significant environmental effects arising from different transport corridor scenarios.

Calculations and GIS simulation
Our methodology included calculations based on quantitative data combined with application of geographical information system (GIS) as a tool. By applying GIS layers, we were able to compare the situation before and after project implementation. The comparison focussed on environmental indicators such as:

• Transfer of traffic from existing to proposed infrastructure
• Proximity of proposed infrastructure to designated areas
• Changes in emission levels due to proposed infrastructure

Adjusting to data shortage
As it proved difficult to access all relevant data, we had to continuously adjust our approach throughout the project.

Prioritised list of projects
Our final reporting to the EU included a list of proposed projects presented in order of priority according to their likely environmental impact.