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Cumulative Effects Framework Engagement

Last updated on October 6, 2023

The cumulative effects framework is a complex Natural Resource Sector initiative. Focused and extensive communication and engagement efforts, with both internal and external audiences, are necessary to ensure that concerns are meaningfully addressed, and diverse interests are balanced.

The cumulative effects framework builds on the principles of adaptive management and continual improvement - identifying concerns, responding to needs, and refining the framework. Engagement with stakeholders, First Nations, and interested parties is one of the main cornerstones for adapting, improving and enhancing the cumulative effects framework.

The cumulative effects framework is a complex initiative – engagement helps us to get it right. Many thanks to those who provided comments during Phase 1 and Phase 2 of engagement. We look forward to your continued involvement.

Further engagement opportunities on the cumulative effects framework will be posted on this webpage, however comments on the cumulative effects framework can be submitted at any time. Please submit your feedback to CumulativeEffects@gov.bc.ca.

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How were First Nations involved in the development of the framework?

First ‎Nations have been engaged to varying degrees in regional pilot projects that helped to inform the design of the cumulative effects framework (e.g., Northwest, Northeast, Cariboo and Merritt regions). First Nations engagement continues to expand to other areas of the province, both through cumulative effects framework implementation and related initiatives like the Marine Planning Partnership (MaPP) and the Environmental Stewardship Initiative (ESI). Insights from First Nation engagement have and continue to be an important influence on the framework design, development and implementation.

 

How are First Nations involved in cumulative effects assessment and management?

Engagement with First Nations is an expectation established under the cumulative effects framework interim policy when values are either selected or assessed and when management options are defined. Collaboration through government-to-government agreements on cumulative effect issues, including assessment, management and cross jurisdictional governance are also underway in some areas of the province.

 

How are external stakeholders involved?

Consultation and collaboration with natural resource sector stakeholders and environmental non-government organizations remain ongoing to ensure their concerns are considered when developing policy, procedures, assessments and management options. Formal engagement sessions occurred in 2015 and 2016.

 

 

Phase 1 of formal public engagement on the cumulative effects framework occurred between March and October 2015. This phase targeted key internal and external stakeholders to collect feedback on the initial draft cumulative effects framework policy concepts and approaches.

Building on the successes of phase 1, phase 2 of engagement occurred from April to July 2016 to raise awareness and seek feedback on revised draft policy and assessment approaches for the first three cumulative effects values: aquatic ecosystems, grizzly bear, and old growth forest.

Contact information

Contact us if you would like to submit comments or have questions about the cumulative effects framework.


CumulativeEffects@gov.bc.ca