These groups are well organized and have found a sympathetic ear from governments, educators and the general public. Clearly, responsible environmental groups have an important role to play in the climate change policy development process. However, some sectors of Canadian industry have been under-represented in the policy development process, in comparison to the substantial role that these industries play in the creation of economic opportunity and jobs in Canada. In addition, the substantial, voluntary progress Canadian industry has made in responsibly addressing greenhouse gas emissions has gone virtually unrecognized. Membership Structure AREA's membership structure is designed to build the largest coalition of interested participants possible.
Coalitions are the most effective means to influence government public policy development.
By building a coalition across all sectors of the Canadian economy, including business, labour and local government, AREA has become more representative of Canadian society and therefore, is in the most credible position to articulate the 'public interest' to government.