What is Environmental Assessment (EA)?

Environmental Assessment (EA) is a tool for ensuring sustainable development.  It is a process for identifying and predicting likely impacts of a proposed project/development activity.  It acts as a way to incorporate environmental factors in decision making.

When is an EA required?

 Under Canada Environmental Assessment Act (CEAA), an EA is required if:

1. Federal authority is the project proponent
2. Federal land is being used for the project
3. Project/activity is federally funded

When should an EA be undertaken?

 It should start as early in the planning process as possible.  A proper EA process can support informed decision making and can save time by screening out environmental unviable project/ developmental alternatives early in the process.

Why is it important to undertake EA process?

1. It provides a way for public to participate in the project/developmental process
2. Supports protection of public health
3. Ensures sustainable resource use
4. Ensures that wastes/emissions, if applicable are handled/treated properly
5. Minimizes disaster risks
6. Allows project/developmental authorities a framework for public accountability

What should an EA Report contain?

 EA report should clearly identify the possible impacts of the proposed project / developmental activity after comparison with the baseline data.  It should also outline methodologies/models used to predict the impacts, if such a prediction has been undertaken.    It should then assess if these impacts are acceptable as per the applicable standards.  EA report should also outline if the impacts could be acceptable after applying suitable mitigation measures.  The EA will also address likely cost of the mitigation measures. 

What is an EMP?

 EMP refers to Environmental Management Plan.  It contains an operational plan for the mitigation measures for project/developmental activity.  It typically contains detailed time lines, frequency, process details along with clearly identified responsibilities for carrying out the same.  It may contain details of a review mechanism also, if applicable.