Regional-Level SEA (Part 1)
Moderator: Barry Sadler
Presentations
Introduction to Theme Forum: On SEA Application to Address Cumulative Effects: What is the Value Added by a Regional Approach?
Presenter(s): Barry Sadler
By definition, SEA is far better equipped than project-level EIA to address cumulative effects. In practice, experience with SEA use internationally suggests that this approach has fallen short of initial expectations as a means of identifying and managing cumulative effects. Regional-level SEA, already applied in certain jurisdictions, is being considered in Canada as a better way of dealing with these effects at appropriate spatial scales. The value added to planning and decision-making can be variously itemized, but arguably will be commensurate with the overall correspondence of REA to an ecosystem-based approach, i.e., which evaluates (however imperfectly) the significance of cumulative effects against a framework of conservation objectives and criteria.
Alberta’s Cumulative Effects Management System
Presenter(s): Menzie McEachern, Ian Dyson, Christine Lazaruk
The Government of Alberta is developing a new outcomes-based environmental management system. The Cumulative Effects Management System will consider the environmental implications of development for an entire region. A new approach is necessary if we intend to protect the environmental quality (air, land, water, biodiversity) of our province. This evolutionary approach will be integrated with the provincial Land-use Framework and change the way the Government of Alberta does business.
Regional Planning for Cumulative Effects Management
Presenter(s): Dave Belyea, Dave Borutski
The Government of Alberta has developed a new land-use framework for the province. The entire framework defines and supports an outcomes-based, adaptive management approach. A key strategy is development of six integrated regional plans covering the province. The planning process and its relationship to Regional Strategic Environmental Assessment and to cumulative effects management will be described, with the leading case examples.
Regional Strategic Environmental Assessment in Alberta
Presenter(s): Dallas Johnson, John Kenney, Menzie McEachern, Gustavo Mendoza, Andrew Buffin
Alberta Environment will present a conceptual framework for Regional Strategic Environmental Assessment (RSEA). The presentation will explore the potential utility of RSEA as a planning tool within the context of Alberta’s shift to a cumulative effects management system.