Ecological compensation of highway impacts; negotiated trade-off or no-net-loss?

Abstract

<p></p><table><tbody><tr><td>\n</td>\n<td>The ecological compensation principle was introduced in the Dutch \nStructural Scheme for the Rural Areas (1993). The principle aims to \nenhance the input of natural conservation interests in decision-making \non large development projects and to counterbalance the adverse impacts \nof such projects when implemented. The thesis describes the process of \nimplementing the ecological compensation principle within the \nDirectorate-General of Public Works and Water Management \n(Rijkswaterstaat) as initiator of highway projects. Additionally, it has\n developed a theoretical and practical framework for ecological \ncompensation. Ecological compensation and related issues have been \ninvestigated in the different stages of planning, decision-making and \nrealisation of highway projects. The thesis' leading element is the \nincentive-based character of compensating for impacts according to the \nStructural Scheme. This implies the parties involved are obliged to \nreach agreement on finding and realising compensation sites. Besides \nsome specific conditions, there is still no legislation that facilitates\n the initiatiors' acquisition of lands for compensation purposes.</td></tr></tbody></table>