Environmental assessment reform in Canada

Abstract

Environmental impact assessment (EIA) in Canada has been evolving over the past 50 years. This chapter explores the evolution of EIA reform in Canada, with a focus on the recent updates to Canada’s federal and British Columbia’s provincial EIA legislation. The federal and BC updates illustrate aspects of the evolution of EIA in Canada, which has moved from a guidance-based process to one embedded in legislation and regulation. EIA reform generally seeks to address issues and criticism from diverse stakeholders and parties to the EIA process; although satisfying each party is a difficult undertaking. This can focus on seeking a balance between environmental and economic sustainability while simultaneously providing a predictable and timely process. A summary of the motivations for reform, and the resulting unique process qualities (including both strengths and limitations) of the EIA regimes in Canada and BC is provided.