Environmental Planning and Approvals

Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) and regulatory approvals and permitting play a crucial role in Canada's environmental governance framework. Canadian federal, provincial, and territorial governments have established comprehensive regulations to ensure sustainable development and protect the environment

EIA is the process used to identify and evaluate the potential environmental and social effects of proposed projects, policies, programs or plans. It involves a systematic analysis of the potential impacts on the environment and community, including both the biophysical and socio-economic aspects. The primary objective of an EIA is to identify potential environmental risks and to recommend measures to mitigate and/or minimize those risks, which can include changes to the project design to avoid or minimize impacts upfront, and/or measures to minimize and manage the residual, unavoidable impacts. The process typically involves a range of stakeholders, including the project proponent, government agencies, affected communities, and environmental and social science experts.

How we assist

With extensive knowledge of Canadian environmental regulations and a proven international track record of successful project approvals, we offer a wide range of services to support clients across various industries in navigating the complex regulatory landscape.

Our services:
EIA
  • Conducting thorough environmental assessments to identify potential impacts of proposed projects on the environment, including air quality, water resources, biodiversity, and socio-economic factors.
  • Collecting, analyzing, and interpreting data to evaluate project alternatives and identify mitigation measures to minimize adverse environmental effects.
  • Preparing comprehensive EIA reports that meet Canadian regulatory requirements and support project approval processes.
  • In-house secondments to manage early phase environmental investigations, approvals processes and deliver projects on behalf of clients.
  • Independent environmental audits, environmental compliance reporting and due diligence.
  • In-house technical specialists, which include: hydrology, hydrogeology, spatial solutions, visual and landscape design, social impact assessment, communication and engagement, traffic and transport, noise and vibration, air quality and greenhouse gas assessments.
 Regulatory Approvals
  • Guiding clients through the regulatory approval process by identifying applicable federal, provincial, and municipal regulations and requirements.
  • Developing strategic approaches to meet regulatory standards and ensuring compliance throughout the project lifecycle.
  • Collaborating with regulatory agencies and stakeholders to facilitate efficient and timely approvals.
Permitting and Compliance
  • Assisting clients in obtaining the necessary permits and licenses required for project implementation.
  • Conducting permit reviews to ensure compliance with applicable environmental regulations and conditions.
  • Developing environmental management plans and monitoring programs to meet ongoing compliance obligations.
 Project Management Excellence
  • Efficient project management methodologies to streamline the EIA and regulatory approval process, ensuring timelines and budgets are met.
  • Ability to handle complex and large-scale projects while maintaining attention to detail and delivering high-quality results.

 

We bring innovative approaches to approvals strategy, impact assessment, cumulative assessments, as well as the communication of complex scientific matters.

We tailor our EIA approach to the specific needs of the client and the demands of the project. Our team establishes constructive and integrated relationships with our clients, built on professionalism, integrity and responsiveness. This approach allows us to deliver optimal solutions for our clients.

Digital platforms are increasingly being used to present scientific and technical information related to environmental impact statements.

The ability to incorporate visual communication tools such as maps, diagrams, and interactive graphics, enables complex information to become more accessible and easier to understand. First developed by EMM in 2018 to present the Snowy Hydro 2.0 Exploratory Works and Main Works Environmental Impact Statements, the platform was built for the sole purpose of creating opportunities for greater stakeholder engagement.

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Meet our team

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