Broadening the IYamework of enviromnental impact assessment (EIA) involves an e×amination of the principles and policies which should underlie ecologically sustainable development. To work effectively, EIA procedures need to be located within a broad fi'amework of policies and environmental objectives, standards and monitoring. This paper discusses the political and environmental context in Australia within which the debate on sustainable development is occurring. Some important principles which underlie an ecologically sustainable development policy IYamework are discussed, These include inter-generational equity, conservation of biological diversity and ecological integrity, maintenance of natural capital and a recognition of the [...]
