Thus, impetus for proposed projects arises from, or at least is accepted at, the grassroots. Such acceptance is in fact an explicit requirement for certification. From the design phase on, projects are required to be guided by public advisory committees. Because eventual project-implementation loans from NADBank must be repaid, the expense to local governments may raise grassroots inquiries as to whether the potential benefits of a project will outweigh its probable costs. Those who attend witness open discussions that have been remarkably free of hidden agendas, secrets, and manipulation.
Decisions are never final until voted on publicly, after public input, questions, and discussion.
BECC's charter contains explicit provisions for public participation. BECC must ensure public access to documents for all proposed projects requesting certification and must arrange opportunities for public comment. Groups affected by proposed projects may also submit comments directly to the Board of Directors. In this regard, the Commission has been aided by BECCnet, an Internet-based discussion group. As of early 1998, BECCnet subscribers in the two countries include government officials, academics and scholars, NGO representatives, concerned community groups, private-sector stakeholders, and ordinary citizens.