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Integrating Gender in Environmental Assessments: An approach to increase transparency and accountability in the mining sector

In this briefing note, we examine if, and to what extent, gender is integrated in Canadian regulations. To do this, we first briefly review the mining industry’s gendered impacts and EAs. Then, we mention different frameworks that have been developed to include gender in EAs. We explain in deeper detail Gender-Based Analysis Plus (GBA+), as this framework developed by the Government of Canada will likely be the most frequently used in Canada due to federal requirements. Finally, we analyze Ontario, British Columbia and the Yukon Territory’s EA legislation and guiding documents as they relate to gender, as well as the federal Impact Assessment Act. This analysis was done using the Gender Integration Continuum, which provides terms to classify programs, policies and initiatives in terms of their levels of gender inclusiveness. To do this evaluation, we have examined whether the jurisdictions included gender as a matter to be considered in EAs and whether they included gender requirements for consultations.