Extending causality in the Great Lakes basin ecosystem

Abstract

Abstract Michael Gilbertson (Gilbertson, M., 1997. Can. J. Fish. Aquat. Sci. 54, 483–495) has asserted that the adoption of an ecosystem approach to problem-solving in the Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement (GLWQA) of 1978 has undermined the ability of Canada and the United States to grapple effectively with transboundary water pollution. In opposition to this, arguments are presented to suggest that Gilbertson errs in: (1) identifying pollution as the main focus of the GLWQA of 1978; (2) failing to demonstrate that the rise of the ecosystem approach to management caused a reduction of progress in eliminating persistent toxic substances; (3) failing to realize through extended chains of causality that the ecosystem approach and forensic approach to transboundary problem-solving are complementary. The texts and discussions leading up to the signing of the GLWQAs of 1972 and 1978 make it clear that the ecosystem approach to transboundary problem-solving is essential to achieving the purpose of the Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement of 1978 both in regard to the “integrity” clause and the elimination of persistent toxic substances and other pollutants.