Environmental protection law in Canada is governed by a combination of federal, provincial, and territorial legislation. The main federal environmental law is the Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999 (CEPA), which protects the environment and human health from harmful substances.
Other federal environmental laws include:
- The Fisheries Act: This law protects fish and fish habitat in Canada.
- The Species at Risk Act: This law protects species that are at risk of extinction.
- The Canadian Wildlife Act: This law protects wildlife and wildlife habitat in Canada.
- The Navigation Protection Act: This law protects navigable waters in Canada.
Provincial and territorial environmental laws vary, but they generally cover areas such as:
- Air and water quality
- Waste management
- Pesticides and fertilizers
- Land use and development
How to protect the environment
There are a number of things you can do to protect the environment, including:
- Reduce your consumption of resources, such as water and energy.
- Recycle and compost.
- Use public transportation, walk, or bike whenever possible.
- Support businesses that are committed to environmental sustainability.
- Advocate for environmental protection at the local, provincial, and federal levels.
How can an environmental lawyer help you?
An environmental lawyer can help you with all aspects of environmental protection law, including:
- Advising you on your rights and obligations
- Representing you in environmental assessments and other regulatory proceedings
- Representing you in court if necessary
The Canadian government offers a number of resources for protecting the environment, such as the EcoAction website and the Canadian Wildlife Federation website. You can also contact your provincial or territorial environment ministry for advice and assistance.
If you have any questions about environmental protection law, or if you are involved in an environmental dispute, it is important to consult with an environmental lawyer.
This article is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Contact us today to discuss your specific situation.