A Framework for Environmental Risk Assessment and Decision-Making for Tidal Energy Development in Canada

Biological/Ecological Effects, Geophysics/Hydrodynamics: Isaacman, L., G.R. Daborn and A.M. Redden (2012)

Report to Fisheries and Oceans Canada and the Offshore Energy Research Association of Nova Scotia. Acadia Centre for Estuarine Research (ACER) Publication No. 106, Acadia University, Wolfville, NS, Canada. 44 pp.

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In-stream tidal energy initiatives are rapidly developing in Nova Scotia, but there remains a high degree of uncertainty regarding the nature and extent (in space and time) of environmental implications of energy harvesting activities. This report outlines a science-based environmental risk assessment and decision-making framework for the developing in-stream tidal energy industry. It lays out a set of practical criteria and related risk indictors for consideration when planning and reviewing projects. This guidance document offers an approach that would help facilitate a consistent, objective and efficient environmental review, regulatory and follow-up process for the tidal energy industry in Canada.

Keywords: environmental assessment, adaptive management