The International Association for Impact Assessment (IAIA) was organized in 1980 to bring together researchers, practitioners, and users of various types of impact assessment from all parts of the world. One of the unique features of IAIA is the mix of professions represented, which provides members with outstanding opportunities for interchange: to advance the state of the art and science of impact assessment in applications ranging from local to global; to develop international and local capability to anticipate, plan and manage the consequences of development; to enhance the quality of life for all.