Digi-EIA: EIA online, visual and interactive

Digi-EIA brings together information on the project and the EIA procedure in one accessible, visual and interactive online experience. The main deliverable is an ArcGIS StoryMaps site that can include an online map viewer and a 3D landscape model. Everything opens directly in a web browser without separate software.

What is Digi-EIA?

Digi-EIA presents the content of the EIA procedure in a visual and interactive format in the browser. The solution improves project communication, understanding, reach and stakeholder engagement. The service uses Esri’s browser based ArcGIS platforms: StoryMaps, ArcGIS Online and ArcGIS Scene Viewer.

All content opens directly in the browser. Each publication has a permanent link that can be shared and embedded on project websites and on the official EIA pages. This supports access to information, accessibility and transparency for authorities, stakeholders and local residents.

Digi-EIA StoryMaps site (EIA programme and/or report online)

The EIA programme and/or EIA report is published in full on a StoryMaps site. The site offers an illustrative and user friendly way to explore the content of the official EIA documents.

• Easy navigation and clear structure
• Integration of images, maps and media
• Works on desktop, tablet and mobile
• Supports local acceptance of the project, participation and stakeholder cooperation
• Promotes open access to information for authorities, stakeholders and citizens

Digi-EIA online map viewer (ArcGIS Online)

Project specific spatial datasets, results from separate studies and open data used in the EIA are combined in an interactive web map (ArcGIS Online). Users can explore the regional context, environmental conditions and project activities as map layers. Separate study results such as nature surveys, resident surveys and noise or shadow flicker modelling can also be viewed as map layers in the browser. 

• Transparent and up to date view of information
• Movable, zoomable map layers that can be turned on and off
• Supports the work of authorities and stakeholders
• Filters, legends and measurement tools

3D landscape model (Scene Viewer)

The project’s landscape and shadow impacts are illustrated in an interactive 3D model that shows project structures and the surrounding area in three dimensions.

• Visualisation of landscape change, shadow effects and weather or seasonal variation
• Helps users understand visual impacts in the landscape
• Scene Viewer runs in a browser without separate software 

Benefits of Digi-EIA

• All information in one place: EIA programme and report, maps and 3D visualisations in a single accessible package
• Better engagement: Interactive content supports participation of authorities, stakeholders and local residents
• Clearer understanding of impacts: Maps and 3D views make complex information easier to interpret
• Support for decision making: Spatial analysis provides a shared information base and supports dialogue
• Browser based, no extra installations: Works in modern web browsers on desktop, tablet and mobile
• Permanent links on the project’s EIA pages: Accessibility and transparency throughout the procedure

When do I need an EIA and who is Digi-EIA for?

The need for an Environmental Impact Assessment procedure is defined in the EIA Act. For large environmental and infrastructure projects such as wind and solar power projects and power line projects, EIA is mandatory. For smaller projects such as solar power projects of limited size, the Finnish Supervisory Agency assesses the need for EIA on a case by case basis.

EIA is carried out at an early stage of the project so that its results can guide planning. Possible implementation alternatives are compared with each other so that differences in impacts become clear. After the EIA procedure, the permitting authorities and the project owner are aware of the harmful environmental impacts and the mitigation measures that are available.

Who is Digi-EIA suitable for?

• Project developers and consultants who want to bring EIA communication and stakeholder cooperation up to date
• Authorities who need a clear, accessible and consistent way to present information
• Stakeholders and local residents who need concise, visual and understandable information on the project and its impacts 

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

Is Digi-EIA an official EIA document?

• Digi-EIA presents the content of the official EIA documents online in an illustrative format and makes it easier to familiarise oneself with the EIA material. The official EIA documents remain the formal basis for the procedure.

Can we use Digi-EIA alongside the authority process?

• Yes. Digi-EIA serves as a parallel presentation platform for the EIA material and supports the procedure throughout its duration. The site can be published at the programme stage and updated for the report stage.

Can we use Digi-EIA in public events and steering groups?

• Yes. The site and the map views work very well as tools for public events and stakeholder meetings.

Can we publish only the StoryMaps site without the map viewer or 3D model?

• Yes. StoryMaps is the main product. The map viewer and 3D model are optional add on services.

How is Digi-EIA shared?

• Each publication has a permanent shareable link and a QR code. These can be shared on project websites, in public events and in meetings. The link is also shown on the project’s official EIA pages.

Can we link other project material to the site?

• Yes. The site can integrate other project material such as visualisations, videos and links to the project developer’s website or feedback forms.

Is the service scalable for multiple projects?

• Yes. The Digi-EIA structure can be replicated and used in several projects with a consistent corporate presentation style. The content is always tailored to each project.