Environment and Climate Change Canada, in partnership with Health Canada, is undertaking a first round of consultation to help with the development of the implementation framework for the newly recognized right to a healthy environment under the Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999 (CEPA). A Discussion Paper was released on February 8, 2024 with a range of questions about the potential elements of the framework. 

Access the Discussion Paper here.

The Manitoba Eco-Network is currently seeking input from Manitobans. We have created a survey based on the Discussion Paper to help us collect this feedback. 

The deadline to submit survey responses has now passed.

The feedback collected from this survey will be presented by the Manitoba Eco-Network at an online consultation event being hosted on March 27, 2024. 

You can watch the recording here.

You can access the slides for the presentation here. 

In 2023, Bill S-5, the Strengthening Environmental Protection for a Healthier Canada Act, brought changes to CEPA. It recognizes the right to a "healthy environment" for every individual in Canada. This right, however, is confined to CEPA processes and requirements. As the first federal recognition of environmental human rights, the Minister of Environment and Climate Change must create an implementation framework by 2025. This framework aims to guide the consideration and support of the right to a healthy environment within CEPA processes. It will elaborate on Act elements, specify protective mechanisms, and address research and monitoring activities. The framework may also outline approaches to measure progress in integrating this right into CEPA administration. Submissions on this discussion document will shape the development of the draft implementation framework.

This consultation invites Manitobans to share their views on the federal right to a healthy environment and propose necessary government support. Your input can influence future federal laws beyond the current scope under CEPA. Make your voice heard to ensure that Manitobans' unique experiences are considered in the development of new laws and programs, enhancing the recognition of environmental rights and principles like "environmental justice."

You can submit your feedback on the Discussion Paper to the Right to a Healthy Environment Implementation Framework Team by emailing: healthyenv-envsain@ec.gc.ca

You can also participate in the online discussion on the development of the implementation framework by registering here: https://enviroequity.ca/right-to-a-healthy-environment

Deadline for comments is April 8, 2024.

Contact Us:

If you have questions about the survey or other Manitoba Eco-Network activities related to this consultation, please contact:

Heather Fast, Policy Advocacy Director - policy@mbeconetwork.org