CEAM Vision, Purpose and Principles

Vision

"The NWT CEAM Strategy and Framework will facilitate: the protection of ecological integrity, the building of sustainable communities (including social and economic dimensions), and responsible economic development within a sound environmental management framework."  

Purpose

The purpose of the NWT CEAM Strategy and Framework is to facilitate:

  • mechanisms to make well-informed decisions about the environment and human activities;
  • systematic and coordinated approaches to cumulative effects assessment and management;
  • common principles and links between environmental management processes including land use planning, land and water management, cumulative impact monitoring, and environmental audit; and
  • improved certainty, clarity, efficiency, transparency and accountability of processes at all levels.


Principles

The following principles govern the way the CEAM Steering Committee conducts its business. They do not flow directly from the vision or purpose, or lead directly to the objectives. However the vision, purpose, objectives and principles must be compatible with one another.

 

  • The Strategy and Framework cannot supersede Aboriginal/inherent and treaty rights, existing or future land claims and self-government agreements (including implementation obligations and commitments) or legislation.
  • Where possible and practical the Strategy and Framework will build on existing structures, policies, legislation, initiatives and tools (including Aboriginal/inherent and treaty rights, land claim and self-government agreements).
  • Development of the Strategy and Framework will be led by a multi-stakeholder Steering Committee, with information made available to all interested parties.
  • Partnership is crucial for consultation, communication and education, and for the effective use of resources (funding, staff, expertise) in developing and implementing the Strategy and Framework.
  • The Strategy and Framework will take into account environmental, societal and economic considerations in decision making.
  • The Strategy and Framework will respect and apply western science and traditional knowledge, the "precautionary principle" and the adaptive management approach.

 

January 9, 2002

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