The recent data explosion, and the associated increase in the application of novel techniques and tools to manage and make sense of these data, are seamlessly increasing the information available to support assessments and decisions.

These advancements are potentially strengthening and bolstering impact assessment, planning, and decision-making practice through the delivery of evidence-based, spatially robust, and transparent information.

There are also indications that they can influence the coordination of procedures and governance dynamics. But is the growing flow of spatio-temporal data and technological innovation truly leading to better assessments? Better decisions? Are we getting any wiser at taking better environmental action?

Against the backdrop of digital and technological progress, this conference aims to explore related scientific, technological, and governance developments to reflect on whether the impact assessment community is getting any smarter at bridging the science and art of impact assessment. Are we communicating scientific information
appropriately across the various governance tiers and to all relevant players? Do we understand what the “right” information is for decisionmakers and, indeed, how data
and methodological innovation are influencing decisions? Is this leading to a new era of impact assessment and thinking? Or do we remain in the status quo? These and some other contemporary questions will help address how we can make best use of scientific innovation to address current practical challenges.

The INFACT project will organise a session on “BEGINNING WITH THE END IN MIND”:

Lead Chair: Dr Cathryn   MacCallum |  CoChair:  Jonathon Russill

Participants will be engaged in a participatory consensus building session, with representatives from the INFACT EU-funded H2020 project. to explore and inform solutions to reinvigorating European mining for green growth and a sustainable future.