Any development has an impact on the socio-economic and biophysical environment.
One way to minimize negative and maximise positive impacts of a project is to assess any potential impacts early in the process of project design. Initial environmental assessments focusing on the broad environmental implications of the project should occur in the pre-feasibility phase and more detailed and specific assessments would, if necessary, follow in subsequent phases. An early environmental assessment allows for timeous consideration of alternative development measures. An early environmental assessment is a useful tool for anticipating problems and proposing remedial measures associated with activities that support the main developmental project. In Namibia the basic framework for an environmental assessment is often missing and the equivalent of a strategic environmental assessment is required.