The two processes are substantially different. Assessing the environmental implications of policies is considerably more complex than project assessments due to the increased uncertainly of outcomes and the influencing variables involved. This uncertainty is compounded by limitations on scientific data and constraints on the predictability of policy outcomes. Relatively speaking, environmental assessments of projects deal with site specific variables that are tangible and quantifiable. Canada is committed to integrating sustainable development into its domestic and foreign policy.
Environmental assessments are an effective tool for advancing sustainable development.
Canada will conduct environmental assessments of trade negotiations in keeping with the 1999 Cabinet Directive on the Environmental Assessment of Policy, Plan and Program Proposals that provides guidance to federal departments to consider the environmental implications of new policies such as trade negotiations. As a result, Canada has prepared a Framework for Conducting Environmental Assessments of Trade Negotiations. Environmental assessments can also improve overall policy coherence at the national level by providing decision-makers with the means to integrate environmental considerations into trade policy. On September 9 th 2000, the Minister for International Trade invited Canadians to comment on Canada's Draft Environmental Assessment Framework for Trade Negotiations . Regional meetings were also held in Victoria, Vancouver, Calgary, Ottawa and Halifax.