ID: 1629
Presenting Author: Jonathan Perreault
Session: 725 - After the Assessment – Where’s the Value and What Happened in the End?
Status: pending
Assessing how Québec’s BAPE asbestos inquiry countered misinformation, strengthened public trust, and shaped public policy.
Asbestos remains a major public health and environmental concern, with impacts persisting decades after its widespread use. Its management has long been hindered by conflicting information and misinformation. In response to these challenges, and at the request of the Minister of the Environment, the Bureau d’audiences publiques sur l’environnement (BAPE) conducted an in-depth public inquiry, producing the report The current situation and management of asbestos and asbestos-contaminated mining residues. This document synthesizes scientific and technical knowledge and provides recommendations to guide government action. Through its historical context, planning, and execution, the mandate highlights the BAPE’s role in developing inclusive mechanisms for broad public participation and informed dialogue, ranging from general hearings to sectoral consultations, essential tools in countering misinformation and fostering societal consensus. Our analysis examines the extent to which the BAPE’s recommendations have influenced government decisions, policies, and practices. Using a mixed-method approach, it combines qualitative analysis of how recommendations have been interpreted and applied with a review of policy and regulatory developments. This assessment provides a comprehensive view of the BAPE’s influence on asbestos management in Québec and illustrates how transparent, evidence-based consultation can help counter misinformation and strengthen public trust.
Jonathan holds a master's degree in biology and has training in sustainable development. He has been an analyst with the BAPE for over 15 years where he has participated in more than 20 inquiries.
Coauthor 1: Joseph Zayed