Environmental Regulation
Environmental regulation in Canada falls under federal, provincial, and in some cases, municipal jurisdiction.
Environment Canada is the federal department that works to enhance the quality of the natural environment, conserve Canada's natural resources, coordinate policies and programs and address climate change, among other key activities.
Alberta Environment is the provincial department that works to protect Alberta's natural resources and to address climate change and waste management issues.
Provincial Environmental Regulations
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Alberta Environment carries out its work under the authority of the Alberta Environmental Protection and Enhancement Act and the Water Act - and works to ensure Alberta's natural environment is protected and preserved for the enjoyment of future generations.
The Ministry is responsible for the protection of Alberta's air, fish, wildlife, forests, land, parks, and water. Working together with key stakeholders, including industry and the public, Alberta Environment develops and enforces firm but fair environmental standards and policies.
In January, 2008, Alberta Environment released a new Climate Change Strategy, building upon Alberta's 2002 Climate Change Action Plan. The strategy takes action on three fronts:-
Implementing carbon capture and storage
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Greening energy production
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Conserving and using energy efficiently
For more details Alberta's environmental legislation and climate change strategy, please visit:
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- Alberta Sustainable Resource Development (SRD)
Alberta Sustainable Resource Development (SRD) is responsible for regulating proposed industrial activities or development of resources on public land.
SRD also ensures proper landsite reclamation under the Alberta Environmental Protection and Enhancement Act.
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Energy Resources Conservation Board (ERCB)
The Energy Resources Conversation Board (ERCB) is an independent, quasi-judicial agency of the Government of Alberta that is charged with regulating the safe, responsible and efficient development of Alberta's energy resources.
Federal Environmental Regulations
- Canadian Environmental Protection Act (CEPA)
The Canadian Environmental Protection Act (CEPA) outlines Canadian law respecting pollution prevention and the protection of the environment and human health in order to contribute to sustainable development.
Date Updated: Sep 25, 2008
RDP-1156