Moving Forward To Modernize Environmental Approvals
March 2, 2010 4:05 PM
McGuinty Government Seeks Public Input On Proposed Direction
Ontario wants to make it easier for businesses to apply for and obtain environmental approvals while increasing protection of the environment.
Public comment is being invited on a proposed model until April 16, 2010.The new model would be introduced over the next two years and focus resources on activities that pose the greatest risk to human health and the environment. Anticipated changes outlined in this Environmental Registry posting include:
- improving and simplifying the application process
- introducing a new, public electronic environmental registry to enhance transparency
- focusing on businesses or facilities with poor compliance records
- improving standards of environmental protection and compliance.
Known as a risk-based approach, the proposal recognizes that not all requests require the same level of review. The province is looking at an approach that streamlines approvals for low-risk activities and focuses resources and efforts on activities that pose the greatest risk to public health and the environment.
Modernizing approvals is a key part of the government's Open for Business initiative which aims to create faster, smarter government-to-business services while protecting the public interest.
Quick Facts
- The proposed risk-based approach is consistent with practices in other jurisdictions, including California and Oklahoma.
- A round table of experts from environmental groups and the business community will also provide advice on matters related to developing and implementing the new process.
- Ontario receives more than 6,000 requests for Certificates of Approval each year. These certificates ensure that facilities in the province comply with environmental laws.
- As of September 2009, Ontario eliminated a backlog of approximately 1,700 applications for Certificates of Approval.
Learn More
- Comment on the proposed approach through the Environmental Registry. (Search number 010-9143)
- Find out how the government's Open for Business initiative is helping to make Ontario an attractive place to do business.
Contacts
- Contact information for the general public
416-325-4000
1-800-565-4923
- Joe Kim
Minister's Office
416-314-6736
Joe.Kim@ontario.ca - Kate Jordan
Communications Branch
416-314-6666
Kate.Jordan@ontario.ca
Ministry of the Environment
ontario.ca/environment