Experts from more then 80 countries will be meeting in person or virtually to share ideas about best practices to protect the environment while still balancing the need of solid and sustainable growth.
The B.C. The B.C. Environmental Assessment Office, the Musqueam Squamish, and TsleilWaututh Nations will be hosting the International Association for Impact Assessment conference (IAIA22) in Vancouver in May 2022. Registration is open for the conference until April 13, 2022.
The IAIA, the global network that focuses on impact-assessment best-practices to guide decision-making regarding major infrastructure and resource development plans, policies, programs and programs, is the IAIA. More than 1,000 members will gather to learn from each other, share stories of successes and challenges and inspire innovation as they strive to ensure major projects meet today’s needs without compromising the opportunities of future generations.
IAIA22 explores the theme of how governments can increase confidence in the practice and practice of environmental impact assessments through clear policies and strong partnerships. It also encourages meaningful public participation in major projects in such industries as power, oil and natural gas, transportation, and mining.
The conference will include plenary sessions and training courses, as well as cultural tours that are facilitated by First Nations. There will also be technical visits to key project sites and unique locations on the West Coast.
Quotes:
George Heyman, Minister of Environment and Climate Change Strategy –
“We are very proud that the traditional territories of the Musqueam, Squamish and Tsleil-Waututh Nations will provide delegates the stunning experience of B.C.They will enjoy the stunning scenery of B.C.’s mountains, waterways and wildlife while they attend this conference. We believe in responsible economic development and good regulation. B.C. B.C. is seen as a leader in the revitalization and implementation of the Environmental Assessment Act 2018. However, there is always more we can do. I believe learning from each other is essential, and putting today’s shared values in place through strong policies, in combination with early engagement with Indigenous Nations and strong partnerships that fully consider their heritage, rights, culture and knowledge, will lead to sustainable decision-making as we move forward.”
Chief Wayne Sparrow, Musqueam Indian Band –
“Musqueam is excited to join our relatives from Squamish and Tsleil-Waututh, along with our partners at the B.C. The Environmental Assessment Office will host this gathering of world leaders in environmental impact assessments. These lands and waters have been an important part of our cultural and economic practices for thousands upon thousands of years. It is vital that Indigenous Peoples are involved in environmental stewardship discussions. They also have the opportunity to share their unique and extensive knowledge of our territories. With IAIA22, we are demonstrating to the world how this work can be done effectively and in full partnership, hopefully inspiring attendees to think about how they can implement similar work at home.”
Sxwíxwtn Wilson Williams, Skwxwu7mesh Uxwumixw Spokesperson –
“Squamish Nation, Skwxwu7mesh Uxwumixw has been the stewards of its lands from time immemorial. We’ve respected and protected the land to ensure our ecosystems remain in balance. Moving forward, we must work together to use Indigenous knowledge to continue to protect our beautiful mountains, forests and oceans for future generations.”
Chief Jen Thomas, Tsleil-Waututh Nation –
“On behalf of the Tsleil-Waututh Nation, we look forward to welcoming leaders from more than 80 Nations globally to the shared territories of the Musqueam, Squamish, and Tsleil-Waututh Nations. It is important to take part in the International Association for Impact Assessment Conference. We, as a Nation are committed to restoring our traditional territory to its full health. Our stewardship of the land, air and water is deeply ingrained in our culture because we understand the health of our people is interconnected with the environment we inhabit. As a Nation, we look forward to the work that will be done as a result of this conference, and continuing to work collaboratively on developing and implementing solutions.”
Steven Guilbeault, Minister of Environment and Climate Change Canada –
“The Government of Canada looks forward to supporting and participating in the IAIA Conference. This conference gives Canada an opportunity to share its leadership in creating an impact-assessment system that puts Indigenous reconciliation at forefront of a stronger public involvement process. We look forward to learning and sharing with the best minds in impact assessment so development and environmental protection continue to go hand-in-hand around the world.”
Learn More
Learn more about International Association of Impact Assessment (IAIA). www.iaia.org
Watch this video about IAIA22 https://player.vimeo.com/video/568941570
Register for the conference, May 4-7, 2022 https://conferences.iaia.org/2022/registration.php
The Environmental Assessment Office, a neutral regulatory agency of British Columbia, is responsible for assessing the impacts of major projects on sustainability and Indigenous reconciliation. Visit: www.gov.bc.ca/eao