7.2 Goals of Methods

  1. To ensure that all environmental factors that need to be included are included, thereby ensuring systematic consideration.

  2. To provide a means for evaluating alternatives on a common basis, including relative and absolute effects.

  3. To aid in identifying data needs and planning special studies.

  4. To assist in evaluation of mitigation measures (i.e. measures that reduce adverse environmental effects).

  5. To provide information in summary form for decision-makers and the public.