Environmental licensing is a technical and administrative procedure that aims to guarantee the environmental viability of projects, works or activities with the potential to impact the environment. Using specific methodologies and guidelines from regulatory bodies such as IBAMA and the Water and Land Institute(IAT), it is possible to assess and mitigate environmental risks, ensuring that human actions do not compromise sensitive ecosystems or conservation areas.
This tool is essential for conserving natural resources and controlling the negative impacts of production activities. But do you know what types of licensing exist? Read on and find out.
What is an Environmental License?
An environmental license is an authorization granted by the public authorities (federal, state or municipal) that allows the installation, expansion, modification or operation of undertakings that use natural resources or that may generate environmental impacts. Its main objective is to guarantee sustainable development, ensuring the responsible use of ecosystem resources by the public.
Generally, the process requires obtaining three main licenses:
- Preliminary License (LP): issued during the planning phase;
- Installation License (LI): authorizes the implementation of the project;
- Operating License (LO): authorizes the start of activities once technical and environmental requirements have been met.
What are the types of environmental licenses?
According to the competent environmental agencies, the main types of licenses are:
- Simplified Environmental License (LAS): intended for low-impact activities, it brings together all the licensing stages in a single document;
- Preliminary License (LP): granted in the initial phase, it assesses environmental viability and defines conditions for the following stages;
- Installation License (LI): authorizes the construction of the project based on the approved studies and projects;
- Operating License (LO): allows the activity to operate after verification of compliance with environmental requirements;
- License by Adhesion and Commitment (LAC): applicable to low impact activities, upon declaration and compliance with technical requirements.
In addition to these, specific authorizations may be required, depending on the characteristics of the project.
What are the stages of environmental licensing?
The licensing process follows defined stages, which can vary according to the size and impact of the project:
- Opening the process: formal initiation with the environmental agency;
- Framework and screening: definition of the type of license applicable;
- Application: submission of the application and the required documentation;
- Public participation: holding hearings or consultations, if necessary;
- Technical analysis: evaluation of the studies submitted (EIA, RIMA, RAP, among others);
- Administrative decision: grant or deny the license;
- Payment of fees: payment of procedural costs;
- Follow-up: inspection and monitoring of conditions.
When is an environmental license required?
An environmental license is mandatory for any activity that has the potential to impact the environment. This includes construction work, industrial installations, the exploitation of natural resources and various other undertakings. The requirement is laid down in legislation such as CONAMA Resolution 237/1997.
On the other hand, low-impact activities may be exempt, provided they are technically justified by environmental opinions.
Who has to have an Environmental License?
According to the legislation, various sectors are subject to environmental licensing, including:
- Processing and extraction industries;
- Civil works (bridges, roads, buildings);
- Agricultural and forestry activities;
- Transportation and storage of dangerous cargo;
- Tourist and leisure developments;
- Use of water and energy resources.
- Waived activities include small renovations, retail businesses, low-risk logistics centers and low-impact public utility interventions.
Geplan Ambiental Services
Geplan Ambiental specializes in studies and consultancy for environmental licensing at all levels. We serve from small entrepreneurs to large infrastructure projects. Our services include:
- Environmental Impact Assessments (EIA) and Reports (RIMA);
- Simplified Environmental Reports (RAS, RAP);
- Environmental management and monitoring;
- Sustainability and ESG consulting;
- Environmental audits and training;
- Survey and monitoring of fauna and flora;
- Noise, air and water quality assessment;
- Risk analysis and environmental control plans.
Text revised by Jhonatan Tílio Zonta
Environmental Engineer, Master in Geotechnics from the Federal University of Paraná (UFPR)
CREA: PR-132986/D
