There is a dynamic and changeable relationship between development projects, people, and affected environments. HELIX evaluates environmental impacts (short-term, long-term, positive or negative) of new construction and development projects, programs or policies, at an early stage of the project planning process in order to introduce extensive information on the environment in which projects/programs/policies would be implemented, and to enable projects to be designed in such a way that they minimize impacts and contribute to sustainable development.
 
Environmental Impact Assessments/Socio-Economic Impact Assessments (EIAs/SEIAs) are also necessary in order for projects to meet global funding requirements and to protect natural resources. Infrastructure projects such as new dam building, mining and road development schemes require a thorough assessment of their impacts on the environment as well as on the lives and cultures of indigenous peoples.
 
Because each project and project site is unique, the form, content, and scope of EIAs are adapted to the needs of the project proposals. EIAs/SEIAs take into consideration project/program/policy effects on:

• People (cultural heritage/socio-economic impacts/relocation effects)
   
• Ecosystems (flora and fauna)
   
• Land, water, air, and landscape
   
• Transportation and navigation