Participation of Indigenous Peoples in impact assessments

This webpage and its contents do not supersede or modify the Impact Assessment Act or its regulations. In the event of an inconsistency between the contents of this webpage and the act and/or the regulations, the act and the regulations prevail. The contents of this webpage are general guidelines only and are subject to change.

Indigenous Peoples have a deep connection to their lands, territories and resources, and an important constitutional relationship with the Crown. Their participation is essential to fully understand the impacts of major projects.

United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples

Find information on how we are implementing the objectives of the Declaration.

Indigenous Advisory Committee

Get to know the expert committee that advises on policy and guidance for impact assessments.

Get training

Register for free training to help you better understand and participate in impact assessments.

Crown Consultation with Indigenous Peoples

Find information on the Government of Canada's legal duty to consult with Indigenous Peoples.

Indigenous Capacity Support Program

Apply for financial assistance to build your community's capacity to participate in assessments.

Stay informed, stay connected

Stay in touch to get the latest news or receive updates on specific assessments.

Indigenous Knowledge

Learn about Indigenous Knowledge and its importance under the Impact Assessment Act.

Get involved in an assessment near you

Find information on assessments in your region via the Canadian Impact Assessment Registry.

Practitioner's Guide

Find guidance documents for Indigenous participation and engagement in impact assessments.

Impact Assessment Co-Administration Agreement Regulations

How we collaborate with Indigenous Peoples to develop the Regulations.

Funding Programs

Apply for financial assistance to play a more active role in assessments and policy development.

Reconciliation Framework

Learn about our action-based reconciliation plan.

Transcript: Benefits of Indigenous Knowledge in impact assessments?

Benefits of Indigenous Knowledge in impact assessments?

1. Better understanding of potential impacts of projects

2. Better understanding of Indigenous worldviews and cultures

3. Improved project design

4. Stronger mitigation and accommodation measures

5. Sound regulatory decisions

Page details

2025-10-07