Legislation and Regulations
The Canadian Environmental Assessment Act and its regulations are the legislative basis for the federal practice of environmental assessment.
The Act:
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ensures that the environmental effects of projects are carefully reviewed before federal authorities take action in connection with them so that projects do not cause significant adverse environmental effects
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encourages federal authorities to take actions that promote sustainable development
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promotes cooperation and coordinated action between federal and provincial governments on environmental assessments
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promotes communication and cooperation between federal authorities and Aboriginal peoples
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ensures that development in Canada or on federal lands does not cause significant adverse environmental effects in areas surrounding the project
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ensures that there is an opportunity for public participation in the environmental assessment process
Regulations help to put the Act's procedures into effect and to clarify under what circumstances an environmental assessment is required. For more information on applying the Act, see How to do Environmental Assessments.
Many agreements are also in place to evaluate proposed projects in a more efficient, predictable and accountable manner.
Guidance material to help you understand the application of the Act can be found in Resources for EA Professionals
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