Almost every country has a process for assessing the environmental impacts of proposed projects and activities before they can move forward. When properly done, impact assessments are forward-looking planning tools designed to help government decision makers, Indigenous authorities and rights holders, and members of the public know the environmental and socioeconomic outcomes of proposed activities before moving ahead.
This guide to public participation in impact assessments is a must-read for anyone considering participating in an assessment under Canada’s Impact Assessment Act. It describes what impact assessment is, outlines key reasons people often participate, explains the difference between public participation and Indigenous engagement and consultation, and talks about key players in the assessment process. It explains the various steps of an assessment under the Impact Assessment Act, from how projects are designated, the various stages of assessment, to follow-up and monitoring after assessments conclude. It also describes strategic and regional assessments, as well as environmental screenings for smaller projects on federal lands. Throughout, it offers tips and resources for how to maximize your participation.
Prepared for the Environmental Planning and Assessment Caucus of the Canadian Environmental Network by Kostantina Northrup and Mike Kofahl (East Coast Environmental Law), Anna Johnston (West Coast Environmental Law) and Kerrie Blaise (Legal Advocates for Nature’s Defence).
Here's a snapshot of what you will find in IAA 101: A Guide to Public Participation in Impact Assessment Act Processes:
- Chapter 1: Introduction
- Chapter 2: What is Impact Assessment?
- Chapter 3: Why Participate in an Impact Assessment?
- Chapter 4: Indigenous Engagement
- Chapter 5: Key Players
- Chapter 6: How Projects are Designated for Impact Assessment?
- Chapter 7: Before Assessments Begin
- Chapter 9: How to Decide Your Focus
- Chapter 10: Subject-Matter Experts
- Chapter 11: Participating in the Assessment
- Chapter 12: Maximizing Your Participation
- Chapter 13: How Decisions Are Made
- Chapter 14: Take it to the Court
- Chapter 15: After the Assessment
- Chapter 16: Regional Assessments
- Chapter 17: Strategic Asessments
- Chapter 18: Section 82 Assessment for Projects on Federal Lands