Unit 3

Setting a Standard for Environmental Assessment in Canada: The Ecosystem Approach

In this unit, we examine the theory, history and development of the ecosystem approach, and consider its relationship to environmental assessment. Detailed examination of the use of the ecosystem approach by the Royal Commission on the Future of the Toronto Waterfront illustrates the practical application of ecosystem principles to environmental assessment.

We also consider key concepts, such as sustainability, carrying capacity, spatial and temporal boundaries, and limits to growth. A review of the 1997 Guidelines for the environmental impact statement of the Voisey's Bay Mine and Mill project is included in the readings to reinforce these principles.

Objectives

After completing this unit, you should be able to

1. outline the development of the ecosystem approach, state its fundamental themes, and apply those themes to the design of an environmental assessment.
2. select appropriate spatial and temporal boundaries for an environmental assessment.
3. discuss the application to environmental assessment of the concepts of sustainability, limits to growth and carrying capacity.