Scotian Basin Exploration Drilling Project — Environmental Assessment Decision

February 1, 2018 — Ottawa — Canadian Environmental Assessment Agency

The Government of Canada is working to protect the environment for future generations while growing our economy.

The Honourable Catherine McKenna, Minister of Environment and Climate Change, today announced that the proposed Scotian Basin Exploration Drilling Project is not likely to cause significant adverse environmental effects and the project can proceed. The project is an exploration drilling project proposed by BP Canada ULC located approximately 230 to 370 kilometres off the southeast coast of Nova Scotia.

In reaching her decision, the Minister considered the Canadian Environmental Assessment Agency's Environmental Assessment Report. The Report includes the Agency's conclusions and recommendations on the potential environmental effects of the project, the proposed mitigation measures, the significance of any adverse environmental effects and the follow-up program.

As part of the Environmental Assessment Decision Statement, the Minister established legally-binding conditions, including mitigation measures and follow-up requirements that the proponent must meet throughout the life of the project. Implementing these conditions will reduce or eliminate the potential effects of the project on the environment.

As a next step, the proponent is required to obtain the appropriate regulatory authorizations and permits before the project can be carried out.