Gaps in marine baseline data and the role of Inuit knowledge in the Nunavut impact assessment process ...

• Main Author: Peletz-Bohbot, Nicole
• Format: Text
• Language: English
• Published: University of British Columbia 2019
• Subjects: Arctic; inuit; Nunavut
• Online Access: https://dx.doi.org/10.14288/1.0378334; https://doi.library.ubc.ca/10.14288/1.0378334

This research helps support the impact assessment (IA) process in Nunavut through an improved understanding of marine baseline information needs and the important role of Inuit Knowledge in project review. The Canadian Arctic is experiencing unprecedented environmental and social-economic change. IA, as a process and tool, is in a key position to assess and mitigate potential impacts of resource development and other activities and aid planning in a rapidly changing Arctic. However, the effectiveness of IA in Arctic jurisdictions has been questioned, and many challenges have been identified including broad gaps in baseline data, notably related to marine environments. Agencies responsible for IA, such as the Nunavut Impact Review Board (NIRB), may employ adaptive approaches where local and Inuit Knowledge is used to address information needs, and broadly support and shape the assessment process. This research was developed and undertaken in collaboration with the NIRB. Through a document analysis of ...