Ensuring that development optimizes benefits and minimizes costs—particularly those borne by people—is the goal of SIA (including those in other places and future). Costs and benefits are frequently not sufficiently considered by regulators, decision-makers, and developers, and they may not be observable or quantifiable. Impacts can be anticipated so that: better decisions can be made on which interventions to carry out and how to carry them out; and mitigation strategies can be put in place to reduce the negative effects and optimize the positive effects of a particular planned intervention or associated activity. The professional value system that SIA practitioners adhere to is one of its key characteristics. Apart from a dedication to sustainability and scientific integrity, this value system encompasses an ethical framework that promotes transparency and responsibility, justice and parity, and protection of human rights. The ex-ante (ahead) prediction of negative effects and the decision of who wins and who loses are only small parts of the role that SIA plays. In addition, SIA includes the following: strengthening the position of women, minorities, and other underprivileged or marginalized members of society; developing capacity building; reducing all forms of reliance; promoting equity; and emphasizing the eradication of poverty.
