One thing I learned about over the weekend talking to people at Lupine Festival, is how few major development projects in recent years have been subject to a full Environmental Impact Statement.

This is quite concerning, as environmental reviews can help mitigate potential environmental and community concerns, and it limits public participation. While EIS may require scaling down or abandoning some projects, it’s usually done for good reason. Protecting our natural resources and community character is important, keeping our children healthy, protecting our air and water is important.