Framework for Science and Technology AdviceThis section highlights the activities undertaken by the federal government to improve how science and technology advice is used in the development of public policy and in support of the public interest. Environment Canada recognizes that effective S&T advisory processes are critical to building and maintaining public confidence in government decision-making. In order to ensure that decision-making is based on both sound science and the best S&T advice, Environment Canada has adopted a Framework for Science and Technology Advice. The Framework is a set of science and technology advice principles and guidelines that establish a benchmark for S&T advisory processes in a number of areas, including: how and where science advice is sought; peer review; consultations with advisors and the public; review of science-based decisions; and, evaluation of science advisory processes. |
Highlights from Environment Canada
Highlights of Environment Canada’s current activities/initiatives that demonstrate our alignment to the federal S&T advice framework:
- EC works collaboratively with Ecological Monitoring and Assessment Network (EMAN) (http://www.eman-rese.ca/eman/) partners to identify new environmental issues at the earliest possible stage.
- The National Water Research Institute, working with the Canadian Council of Ministers of the Environment (CCME), organized a series of national Science-Policy workshops focusing on protecting Canada’s aquatic environment. (http://www.nwri.ca/sciencepolicy/sciepolyintro-e.html)
- The Canadian Environmental Protection Act (CEPA) Environmental Registry (http://www.nwri.ca/sciencepolicy/sciepolyintro-e.html) and the Species at Risk Act (SARA) Public Registry (http://www.sararegistry.gc.ca/default_e.cfm) encourage and support public participation in environmental decision-making.
