With so much happening right now in NEPA – from recent court cases to potential changes under the new presidential administration – we’ll be sharing more insights in future blogs. For now, we wanted to focus on the latest CEQ guidance and technology recommendations. At Scout, we’ve already embraced tools like NEPAssist and other GIS tools to modernize our NEPA work, but what’s new is the CEQ’s vision for a unified, interoperable system and their emphasis on modular, iterative development to bring these changes to life.
From the moment we turn on the computer until we turn out the lights at the end of the day, one unsung hero gets us through nearly every step of the workday: technology. Advancements in technology have expanded possibilities and made most aspects of our jobs easier. They allow us to perform research, share information, attend meetings, write reports, and submit applications. Without it, you wouldn’t even be reading this. On the other hand, when technology is slow, clunky, or ineffective, it directly impacts our ability to get things done. On a larger scale, this is true of the entire NEPA process. Effective technology is key in streamlining environmental reviews, improving public access, and increasing transparency under NEPA.
It is with this recognition that, in the Fiscal Responsibility Act of 2023, Congress mandated the Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ) to “study and report on the potential for online and digital technologies to address delays in reviews and improve public accessibility and transparency related to NEPA requirements.” The CEQ delivered its report to Congress in July 2024. In it, the CEQ noted inefficiencies in the NEPA process due to multiple siloed systems that lack interoperability. They cited resource limitations and complex technology requirements as barriers to widespread adoption of advanced tools. To combat these challenges, the report puts forth recommendations and a plan for a phased transition toward a more unified digital experience for all aspects of the NEPA process.
1. Implement a Smarter NEPA Process with Modular Tools, Common Standards, and Modern Tech
The report urges the development of a NEPA taxonomy and data standards to build a common “language.” Rather than trying to implement a large, rigid structure all at once, new technologies should use an iterative approach. Smaller, modular tools that allow for continuous improvement are easier to implement and more adaptable. As new components are developed, they should follow the chosen taxonomy and data standards to enable data sharing across agencies. The CEQ encourages the use of modern tools like Geographic Information Systems (GIS), artificial intelligence, and collaborative platforms in this process.
2. Leverage GIS for Enhanced Planning and Analysis
GIS offers a unique avenue for technological development. For example, the Environmental Protection Agency’s NEPAssist contains a number of NEPA-related data layers, including land cover, flood plains, wetlands, and more. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s IPaC displays ESA-listed species, critical habitat, or other natural resources. Interactive maps such as these present a variety of interrelated layers to help agencies and planners quickly assess the geographic context and potential impact of a proposed action. These types of innovations are paving the way toward a more streamlined planning experience.
3. Build an Integrated, Transparent Data-Sharing System
The CEQ envisions an application framework that allows tools to work together across agencies to share data efficiently. Over time and after numerous incremental steps, a unified portal would emerge, allowing users across agencies to access data swiftly and efficiently. In addition, public access would increase (to an appropriate level), thus increasing transparency.
While the CEQ report is officially directed to Congress, it certainly speaks directly to us as well. We – agencies, contractors, the public – will not only be the ones to benefit from a more efficient NEPA process; we will be the ones finding new ways to work together, share data, and plan for the future.
Looking for a partner with expertise in modernizing NEPA to support your project? Contact us today at: hello@scoutenv.com.
About the Author: Becky Diaz is an Environmental Planner and GIS Specialist at Scout with several years of experience. When she’s not pondering how to integrate modernized NEPA processes into Scout’s projects, she can be found planning her next backpacking adventure through the Sierra Nevada mountain range.
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