Is Environmental Review Equal To Phase I Environmental Site Assessment?

Is Environmental Review the same as a “Phase I” or “Phase 1 Environmental Site Assessment”?

No; a Phase I ESA is not the same as “Environmental Review”. Generally, environmental review considers the impacts of a "project", while environmental site assessment considers the condition of the land.


Environmental Review is usually much broader in scope. Environmental review typically includes issues that are not included in a Phase I ESA, including sensitive ecosystems, wetland impacts, environmental justice, etc. However, there can be some overlap – some environmental reviews might include some of the same inquiries and document reviews that would be included in a Phase I ESA.

Click here if you need more information on Phase I Environmental Assessment

Or click here if you need information on Small Business Administration (SBA) or HUD Phase I ESA requirements

Caltha LLP provides expert consulting services to public and private sector clients nationwide to address Environmental Review and Environmental Impact Assessment.

Caltha Environmental Review Website