How does the Environmental Assessment process work?
The first step, in accordance with the Ontario Environmental Assessment Act (OEAA), is the development of an EA Terms of Reference (ToR). This document develops a framework for completing the EA. The Environmental Assessment TOR requires approval by the Minister of the Environment, prior to proceeding to the Individual EA. Following approval of the EA by the Minister of Environment, the proponent may proceed with design and construction. These stages also are regulated by the Canada Environmental Assessment Act (CEAA) and require additional environmental studies and consultation.
