echo Integrative-Assessment Tools
Responding to the need for more integrated assessment of the impacts of resource extraction has been a key focus for ECHO Members (see Brisbois et al 2021, Buse et al 2020, Hoogeveen et al 2021 and Hoogeveen et al 2020). Related tools and processes explored via ECHO in response to this need include:
· Risks and Benefits Calculator in partnership with New Brunswick Environmental Network
· Integrated Regional Profile Guide, in partnership with the Cumulative Impacts Research Consortium (CIRC)
Adaptation of the CalEnviroscren methodology to the BC context in partnership with the CIRC, the Northern Health Authority, Office of Health & Resource Development, and the Centre for Environmental Assessment Research, leading to related pilots across the Network (Buse et al 2021).
Adapting to the EnviroScreen to the Canadian Context
An example of cross-ECHO knowledge user demand for integrative indicator frameworks and assessment tool, combined with geospatial approaches, in 2019 the Northern BC Case adapted the CalEnviroScreen (https://oehha.ca.gov/calenviroscreen) to the BC context. EnviroScreens are relativist assessment tools that are capable of merging environmental, community and health data into a singular assessment architecture. They can display individual indicators across large geographic areas, but also compute cumulative pressure scores that represent unique and combined influences of ecological, social and health pressures on particular places and populations.
This potential was profiled at a 2020 Canadian Public Health Association session: Margot Parkes and Sandra Allison (workshop facilitators); Raina Fumerton, Chris Buse, Maya Gislason, Dawn Hoogeveen, Sarah Skinner (workshop speakers). (2020). “Fostering an eco-social future for Public Health: EDGE, ECHO and next generation intersectoral action for health”. Canadian Public Health Association, Public Health 2020. Available here
Since that session, the ECHO team has worked to compile multiple iterations of the EnviroScreen method across its regional cases by adapting it to the realities of different Canadian contexts. Accessing tools and associated resources can be found using the links below:
ECHO Led:
BCEnviroScreen Tool and associated IJERPH publication by Buse et al. (2022)
ECHO Informed:
AB Foothills EnviroScreen Tool (sponsored by ECCC), Phase 1 Report, Phase 2 Report, and User Guide
Northern Ontario EnviroScreen Tool (sponsored by Health Canada)
NBEN RISK & BENEFITS CALCULATOR
Welcome to the NBEN's Risks and Benefits Calculator!
Is a quarry being dug near your community? Is the forest next to your house being cleared for a new housing development? You've come to the right place! This tool allows you to assess development projects in New Brunswick, taking into account environmental, social and economic factors.
Find out who is benefiting... and who is risking it all.
Integrated Regional Profile Guide
Integrated Regional Profile Guide, in partnership with the Cumulative Impacts Research Consortium (CIRC)