Environmental Assessment

An environmental assessment is a legislated planning and evaluation process intended to ensure the environment, along with the social, cultural and economic well-being of residents and communities, is protected from any significant adverse effects that may be caused by a development project. Environmental assessments consider the potential environmental and socio-economic impacts of a project before it begins to ensure that negative impacts can be adequately mitigated. If the project goes ahead, information gathered through the environmental assessment process can be used to guide changes to the project's design that may help minimize impacts on the environment and people.

The Environmental Assessment and Agreements Section (EAAS) of Environment and Conservation is responsible for implementing the duties of the Minister of Indian Affairs and Northern Development as they relate to environmental assessment under the Mackenzie Valley Resource Management Act   (MVRMA). INAC may also be the competent government authority and/or the Federal Environmental Assessment Coordinator for environmental assessments conducted in the Inuvialuit Settlement Region under the Inuvialuit Final Agreement  and the Canadian Environmental Assessment Act. 

In general, the EAAS coordinates INAC's technical input during the environmental assessment process. This information helps the Mackenzie Valley Environmental Impact Review Board , the Environmental Impact Board  located in the Inuvialuit Settlement Region, and other regulatory boards across the NWT assess projects and make recommendations to government regarding proposed developments.

In consultation with other government departments that have responsibilities related to the project being assessed, the EAAS reviews and analyzes board recommendations in order to assist the Minister of Indian Affairs and Northern Development with ministerial decision-making responsibilities as outlined in the Mackenzie Valley Resource Management Act or the Inuvialuit Final Agreement (depending on the location of the proposed development) .

During the environmental assessment process, the EAAS contributes as required to the fulfillment of INAC's obligations to consult the general public and/or Aboriginal people.

INAC aims to ensure environmental assessments are of high quality and contribute to informed decision-making with respect to economic development in the NWT.

For more information:

• Phone the Environmental Assessments and Agreements Section at (867) 669-2590.
• Email NWTEnvironment@inac-ainc.gc.ca.