On July 10, 2026, the Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR) released a proposed Project Evaluation Policy (PEP) to replace the longstanding Class Environmental Assessment for MNR Resource Stewardship and Facility Development Projects.
The proposal would fundamentally change how many MNR projects are reviewed and approved. According to the accompanying discussion paper, the new framework is intended to streamline project planning and decision-making by replacing the current Class EA process with a project evaluation approach.
This proposal could have significant implications for environmental oversight, transparency, public participation, and Indigenous consultation for a wide range of natural resource and infrastructure projects across Ontario.
The proposal is currently open for public comment on the Environmental Registry of Ontario (ERO No. 026-0089).
Action Alert: Changes to MNR Class Environmental Assessment
ACTION ALERT:
Have Your Say on Ontario’s Proposed Replacement for the Ministry of Natural Resources Class Environmental Assessment
On July 10, 2026, the Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR) released a proposed Project Evaluation Policy (PEP) to replace the longstanding Class Environmental Assessment for MNR Resource Stewardship and Facility Development Projects.
The proposal would fundamentally change how many MNR projects are reviewed and approved. According to the accompanying discussion paper, the new framework is intended to streamline project planning and decision-making by replacing the current Class EA process with a project evaluation approach.
This proposal could have significant implications for environmental oversight, transparency, public participation, and Indigenous consultation for a wide range of natural resource and infrastructure projects across Ontario.
The proposal is currently open for public comment on the Environmental Registry of Ontario (ERO No. 026-0089).
TAKE ACTION
Submit a Comment
We encourage Ontarians to review the proposal and submit comments to the Ministry before the consultation period closes. The deadline to submit a comment is August 24th.
When preparing your submission, consider asking:
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