NWT Environmental Stewardship Framework (ESF)

Name Change for the NWT CEAM Framework: At the Sixth Annual CEAM Gathering in February 2008 it was noted that cumulative effects recognizes just one aspect of the Framework and that a new name may be more appropriate. The name 'NWT Environmental Management Framework' was considered but, as the Framework really involves management of human activities through stewardship, the CEAM Steering Committee finally settled on the name 'NWT Environmental Stewardship Framework'. The new name was formally adopted at the CEAM Steering Committee meeting on February 20th, 2008 and in the coming weeks and months, the transition will be made to this new title that more accurately reflects the nature of the Framework.

The Northwest Territories (NWT) Environmental Stewardship Framework (ESF)is a collaborative effort to improve environmental management and stewardship in Canada's Northwest Territories.

Cumulative effects are changes to the biophysical, social, economic, and cultural environments caused by the combination of past, present and "reasonably foreseeable" future actions.

Since the early 1990s, mining, oil and gas, and other development pressures have increased considerably in the NWT.   Understanding and managing the cumulative effects of such activities is essential for making informed decisions about land and water management and resource development in the NWT.

The vision of the NWT Environmental Stewardship Framework is to make recommendations to decision-makers to facilitate:

• the protection of ecological integrity,
• the building of sustainable communities, including social and cultural dimensions, and
• responsible economic development within a sound environmental management framework. 

The Environmental Stewardship Framework has been developed by the NWT ESF Steering Committee, in consultation with a broad range of interested parties.  For information on the Steering Committee's work:

• download the introductory brochure (English or français)
• read online overviews in the Quick Reference section of this website,
• download detailed documents from the Reference section, or
• contact the NWT ESF Secretariat  (email ceam@inac.gc.ca; phone, fax, and address listed in Contact Us section.)

This website has been developed by the NWT ESF Secretariat with input from the NWT ESF Steering Committee.  We welcome comments and suggestions.  Email us at ceam@inac.gc.ca.

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This page last updated July 12th, 2008.