Transport tunnels may be constructed in order to control the environmental problems that a surface route might otherwise produce. Nevertheless, there are many environmental effects generated by the construction, use and decommissioning of tunnels, and not all of these are beneficial. The Environmental Statement needs to address such aspects as the geology and soils, hydrogeology and drainage, ecology, landscape, archaeology, built heritage and severance, as well as the major issues of noise, vibration, locally elevated pollution levels and tunnelling-induced ground movements. This review briefly discusses these issues, together with established methods of prediction. Strategies for mitigating or avoiding some environmental impacts are also suggested. (A)
Abstract