ID: 2043
Presenting Author: Matthieu Féret
Session: 654 - Culture's Role in Impact Assessment
Status: pending
Speakers will share lessons learned from the ESIA preparation for the Tingirrautaq and Puvirnituq wind projects, two Inuit-led projects developed in Northern Québec (Canada).
Understanding cultural differences to effectively communicate environmental effects is essential in every IA and approval process. Even more so when the project is developed in partnership with Inuit communities. In this case, the goal is more than reducing the spread of misinformation and disinformation. The whole communication process needs to go further in a way that the community is effectively engaged in baseline studies, environmental impact assessments and mitigation measures definition. As partners in the project, the communities are at the same time rights-holders and shareholders.
The Tingirrautaq and Puvirnituq wind projects, in Northern Québec (Canada), have been developed by a partnership between Tarquti Energy Inc. and the Quaqtaq and Puvirnituq Inuit communities. The Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) was prepared by PESCA and was submitted for review and approval to the Kativik Environmental Quality Commission (KEQC), which is composed by members appointed both by the Kativik Regional Government and the government of Québec.
The ESIA team had to carefully consider cultural differences throughout the process, aiming for an effective engagement. From the engagement of Inuit experts to incorporating traditional knowledge into the ESIA, to adjustments in the requirements for field surveys to respect their values, and receiving training on cultural and social aspects, the speakers will share lessons learned from this process. The ability to listen, understand and communicate is key in preparing an ESIA in such context.
Biologist M.Sc., 23 years of experience in environmental impact assessments and communication
Coauthor 1: Andy Pirti