New rules entered into force on 1 December 2025, aimed at simplifying and modernising environmental impact assessment procedures.
Through these new rules, the Flemish Region seeks to modernise environmental impact assessment in Flanders. The objective is to simplify and optimise the process, while ensuring quality, transparency and efficiency.
An environmental impact assessment report, or “EIA report”, aims to identify the effects of a project, plan or programme on the environment and human health. An EIA report provides the information needed to take environmental impacts into account from both a legal and policy perspective, examines alternatives and proposes measures to mitigate potential adverse effects.
Since 1 December 2025, the procedure for preparing such reports has been amended. The main changes are the following:
- The so-called project EIA exemption has been abolished.
Previously, there were three possible routes for environmental impact assessment of a project: the project was either automatically subject to an EIA, an exemption could be requested in advance, or only an environmental screening was required. Three project lists determined which procedure applied to each project.
The possibility of obtaining an exemption has now been abolished. All projects that previously qualified for a potential exemption have been moved to the list of projects requiring a project EIA screening. The list of projects automatically subject to an EIA remains unchanged.
- The Flemish Environmental Impact Assessment Expertise Centre (“VECM”) has been established.
This Flemish government body takes over the role previously performed by the Environmental Effects Team. The VECM will therefore be responsible for providing advice, information, practical expertise and support throughout the EIA process. Applicants may request advice from the VECM regarding draft screening reports, and the VECM will ultimately approve or reject EIA reports.
- Several digital tools have been introduced to support applicants.
These tools assist in determining whether projects and plans are subject to EIA requirements and in preparing environmental impact screenings for projects and plans. These tools are now available online.
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If you have any questions regarding these new rules or require assistance in preparing your project or plan, please do not hesitate to contact Astrea’s Environmental Law Team.