Toward a common categorization for valued components: using a review of valued components and indicators in the lower James Bay Region of Ontario and Quebec, Canada, to support cumulative impact science in Canada

Abstract

ABSTRACT Cumulative impacts and regional assessments (RA) require the integration and analysis of large quantities of interdisciplinary scientific information. Yet, the information available is not often readily accessible nor standardized across impact assessments. We proposed here a categorization of valued components that have been derived from projects in the James Bay Lowlands and that is aligned with the IAAC’s Tailored Impact Statement Guidelines (TISG) template, a key document to support project and regional impact assessment deliverables. We compiled valued components and indicators from previous and ongoing environmental impact assessments in the James Bay Lowlands. We identified trends associated with valued components and indicators and combined these trends with the TISG. We then derived a categorization of valued components nested under seven systems. From the reviewed work, we identified 197 valued components (23% valued components were common for two or more projects) and 313 indicators. Our categorization is composed of seven systems and 34 potential valued components allowing for easy connections between future project-level impact assessments and RAs. Our categorization is a valuable communication tool across all stakeholders and rightsholders involved in impact assessments, including communities, Indigenous leaders, IA practitioners, industry, and government.