"Each project undergoes stringent environmental assessments," he said.
Environmental assessments are now required only in some cases.
The projects had commenced without environmental assessments or ministry approval.
They say the F.D.A. is not as qualified as other government agencies to do environmental assessments.
"It demonstrates that the Russian government will use environmental assessments for its own political purposes," Mr. Turkeltaub said.
Environmental assessments show that the project will have no effect on the environment.
The report argues that at least 20% of the projects had no proper environmental assessments.
In Michigan, mining companies submit internal environmental assessments to the state.
Better, he said, to get public input and genuine environmental assessments before approving major projects.
And, the agency notes, both of the environmental assessments failed to consider alternative routes.
Before the developers brought in an excavation crew, they conducted environmental assessments, according to a spokesman, Rich Hohne.
