What does an environmental impact assessment determine in systems verification?

In systems verification, an environmental impact assessment is crucial as it primarily focuses on evaluating the potential effects of a proposed installation on the surrounding environment. This assessment examines various factors, such as air quality, water resources, wildlife habitats, and community health, to understand how the new systems might alter the existing ecological balance.

The assessment's goal is to ensure that any negative impacts are identified and mitigated before the installation begins. It provides a comprehensive overview that can help in decision-making processes by highlighting the environmental consequences of an installation, thus facilitating responsible and sustainable development. By understanding these potential effects, stakeholders can better prepare and comply with environmental regulations, enhance public transparency, and foster community support.

While other options address related aspects—financial costs, timelines for compliance, and legal consequences—they do not capture the core purpose of an environmental impact assessment, which is to ascertain the direct consequences of a project on the surrounding ecosystem.