Applying the precautionary principle in relation to a number of Canada’s international environmental commitments

Petition: 349

Issue(s): Biological diversity, climate change, human/environmental health, international cooperation, and toxic substances

Petitioner(s): Global Compliance Research Project

Petitioner Location(s): Victoria, British Columbia

Date Received: 8 April 2013

Status: Completed—Response(s) to petition received

Summary: The petitioner alleges that Canada has failed to apply the precautionary principle related to a number of its international environmental commitments in the areas of biological diversity, climate change, and fish management. The petitioner questions the federal government about the impact on biological diversity of pesticides and genetically engineered crops, as well as the impact of oil sands operations on climate change, and the impact of potential oil spills from pipelines. The petitioner also asks about the impact of aquaculture on fish and fish habitat and raises some concerns about aquatic species at risk.

Federal Departments Responsible for Reply: Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, Environment Canada, Fisheries and Oceans Canada, Health Canada, Natural Resources Canada