Impact Assessment Process Overview

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1. Planning

Projects go through a planning phase where the public and Indigenous peoples are invited to provide information and contribute to planning the assessment.

2. Impact Statement

The proponent is provided with clear requirements for the information and studies for an Impact Statement. Sound science and Indigenous knowledge inform the Impact Statement.

3. Impact Assessment

The assessment considers potential environmental, health, social and economic impacts of proposed projects, including benefits. Potential impacts on Aboriginal and treaty rights are also assessed and consulted on. The Impact Assessment Agency of Canada (IAAC) or review panel uses the information to develop an impact assessment report.

4. Decision-making

Public interest is at the centre of decisions. The impact assessment report and Crown consultation outcomes informs the Minister or Governor in Council decision on whether a project's adverse impacts are in the public interest. If yes, the Minister must establish conditions for the proponent. Decision statements set out the rationale for the decision, providing transparency and accountability.

5. Post Decision

IAAC will be active in verifying compliance with Decision Statements and correcting non-compliance. There will be greater transparency around follow-up programs, with increased access to key documentation, as well as increased opportunities for Indigenous and community participation in follow-up and monitoring programs.