The Canadian government this week unveiled new federal legislation, Bill C-69, that reshapes some of the country’s federal environmental protection rules and processes.
Key features include the proposed creation of a single agency to oversee the review of major projects in Canada, more indigenous consultation, a stronger focus on the impact of projects on climate change and cumulative environmental impacts, quicker project review timelines, changes to a list that defines which projects must undergo review and greater projection of waterways.
To support the changes, the Canadian government plans to invest up to $1.01 billion in the process over five years.
“The legislation we are introducing today aims to restore public trust in how the federal government approves major projects like mines, pipelines, and hydro dams,’’ said Canadian Environment Minister Catherine McKenna.
“These better rules are designed to protect our environment, while improving investor confidence……they will also make the Canadian energy and resource sectors more competitive,” McKenna said.
Under the new legislation, the National Energy Board will be scrapped, and replaced by the Impact Assessment Agency of Canada.