Enhancing Environmental Impact Assessments through AI-Driven App: App Review of the EIA Report for Proposed Erection of High Communication Towers in Obajana, Kogi State, Nigeria

Abstract

This study addresses the growing need for innovative solutions in Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs), particularly in light of increasing infrastructure development and environmental concerns. By integrating advanced technology, such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), into the EIA process, the study aims to enhance data accuracy and stakeholder engagement, ultimately improving environmental governance. It explores the integration of an AI-driven EIA Review App to enhance the evaluation of EIA reports, focussing on a project involving the installation of two 45-meter lattice towers in Obajana, Kogi State, Nigeria. The app was utilised to assess air quality and identify significant environmental impacts, including alterations to the soil profile. While the app's data revealed that air quality generally met acceptable standards, it identified elevated particulate matter (PM) levels at two monitoring stations, signalling localised pollution concerns. The EIA study employed data acquisition, impact assessment, and Environmental Management Plan (EMP) development, incorporating stakeholder feedback throughout the process. The primary environmental impact identified was the alteration of soil profiles across all project phases. The app's ability to pinpoint critical environmental concerns, combined with its capacity to engage stakeholders and ensure regulatory compliance, underscores its potential to revolutionise the preparation and evaluation of EIAs. The findings highlight the importance of continuous monitoring and proactive mitigation efforts to maintain environmental quality. This research contributes to the growing body of knowledge on the application of AI in environmental governance, offering a novel approach to improving EIA processes through advanced technology.