An Evaluation of the National Framework for Marine Planning in Canada

Abstract

Increased pressure on the world’s oceans and concern over degradation of the marine environment motivated Canada to adopt a new integrated approach to the planning and management of marine space with the passage of the Oceans Act more than a decade ago. This paper describes and evaluates the federal framework for marine planning in Canada, focusing on large scale integrated management initiatives under the Oceans Act, in order to identify problems and make recommendations to improve integrated marine planning in Canada. Our evaluation of Canada’s ocean management system shows that while there has been progress, there is room for significant additional improvement. On the positive side, Canada has a comprehensive legislative and policy framework in place and marine planning is proceeding in some areas based on inclusive stakeholder processes. Some initiatives have been successfully implemented and numerous background studies assessing marine resources have been completed. Evolving governance arrangements are allowing a greater level of co-ordination and collaboration and government bodies are working in partnership. However, significant additional improvements are necessary. There needs to be more consistent higher-level commitment and advocacy for marine planning, dedication of long-term funding, development of measurable goals and targets with timelines, more effective strategies, and implementation of comprehensive monitoring and adaptive management.