Energy, Environmental Impacts,
and Sustainable Development
Presented byCat Shrier, Ph.D., P.G.Water Resources Planner(403) [email protected]
Key Components of an EIA
REGULATORS
PROPONENT
TECHNICAL
STAKE-HOLDERS
NEPA Process
A process not a permit or approval
Projects with a federal nexusStates and localities have own EIA processes
Lead agency is responsible for NEPACooperating AgenciesProponent PaysThird Party Consultant (works for agency)
The Public Plays a Critical Role
The Scoping Process
Draft EIS
Final EIS
Record of Decision (ROD)
Comparative Study for NRCan
Process clarity and predictability are key Scoping Roles and responsibilities Timelines
Time to complete EIA impacted by: Size, complexity, sensitivity of the environment Community and cultural issues Requirements and inter-jurisdictional process Delays due to regulatory capacity issues /
completeness of submittals
EIA Process Adds Value
Enables regulatory / funding approval
Positive community relationships
Optimized project design
Reduced environmental liabilities
More predictable schedule / framework
Consistent with corporate environmental policies
Supports development and implementation of strategies for SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT … WHAT???
Sustainable Development Is …
NOT just a buzzword
NOT just an academic concept
NOT just a vision statement
An integral part of how companies approach projects
Based on sound and established practices
Sustainable Development is …
… Environmental Impacts
Continually finding ways to …
Sustainable Development is …
… not just permit negotiations
Partnerships with local communities …
Sustainable Development is …
… Considering all stages of a project
Life cycle value assessment
(LCVA)
Sustainable Development is …
… for increased efficiency and environmental benefits
… Improving technology and understanding
Sustainable Development is …
… Reclamation through Post-Closure
When Developing Energy Resources …
Chris Schenk
PaulVonguerard
Russ George
Sue Lowell
… it is critical to understand
The resources being developed
The environment and potential impacts to that environment
The communities and stakeholders and potential impacts to them (negative and positive)
The regulatory process
Strategy for a sustainable approach