Achieving Next Generation Environmental Impact Assessment Follow-up and Monitoring

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Date
2017
Authors
Andronak, Brett
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Abstract
Despite growing scrutiny of Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) in Canada and worldwide, the follow-up and monitoring component remains under practiced, leaving EIA decision-makers and practitioners with little understanding of the accuracy of impact predictions made and the effectiveness of mitigation measures developed during the EIA project-planning phase. The Minister’s Expert Panel further highlighted the importance of enhancing follow-up and monitoring during the recent review of EIA processes in Canada. The research identifies six leading edge practices for next generation EIA follow-up and monitoring: public and Indigenous participation, continuous learning, clear roles and responsibilities, independent oversight, adaptive management and traditional knowledge. Approaches to implement those practices in a Canadian context are explored and supported by guidance that captures the learning potential of EIA follow-up and monitoring. The six practices are intended as a package and are presented with practical guidance for proponents, regulators, consultants and others involved in EIA.
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Keywords
Environmental Assessment, Environmental Impact Assessment, EIA, EA, Follow-up and monitoring, Public participation, Independent oversight, Adaptive management, Traditional knowledge, Environmental monitoring, Environmental follow-up, Continuous learning
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