Ontario's Open for Business Act aims, among other goals, to modernize the system of Environmental Approvals. This will enhance public transparency and environmental protection while improving service to business.
The legislation includes provisions to develop and implement a new risk-based registry and approvals system which will update and improve the current system of environmental approvals.
The legislation will allow Ontario to build a modernized approval system - and a more efficient and timely process - by creating a new environmental registry for lower-risk and less complex activities or sectors. It will:
- improve environmental protection by focusing resources on activities that pose the greatest risk to the environment and public health
- enhance public transparency through a searchable electronic registry
- provide online tools that make applying for and obtaining approvals easier and less costly for business.
