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Shifts in Environmental Governance in Canada: How are Citizen Environment Groups to Respond?

Author

Listed:
  • Beth Savan

    (Environmental Studies, Innis College, University of Toronto, 2 Sussex Avenue, Toronto, Ontario M5S 1J5, Canada)

  • Christopher Gore

    (Department of Political Science and Institute for Environmental Studies, University of Toronto, Sidney Smith Hall, 100 St. George Street, Toronto, Ontario M5S 3G3, Canada)

  • Alexis J Morgan

    (Department of Geography and Planning, University of Toronto, Sidney Smith Hall, 100 St. George Street, Toronto, Ontario M5S 3G3, Canada)

Abstract

During a period when the relationship between government agencies and citizen environmental monitoring activities is shifting, this paper examines the nature of the relationship between government and citizen stewardship, by describing some citizen monitoring initiatives in Ontario, Canada. The authors begin by characterizing the changing nature of environmental governance by focusing specifically on the complexity surrounding the relationship between government administrative reform, demands for improved and increased environmental monitoring, and the role and function of citizens in monitoring activities. Then, building on the experience of one citizen-based environmental organization, Citizens' Environment Watch, as well as on two other local examples, they document possible new forms of collaboration that retain government responsibility while building community authority, knowledge, and power to improve local environmental quality. Suggested remedies include a recognition and public articulation of what government should do and what it does not do. In the case of the latter, government should commit to provide support for citizen monitoring efforts, and to heed the work of volunteer monitors. Finally, government needs to follow up on concerns about degraded environmental quality raised by local citizens through strong investigative and enforcement responses.

Suggested Citation

  • Beth Savan & Christopher Gore & Alexis J Morgan, 2004. "Shifts in Environmental Governance in Canada: How are Citizen Environment Groups to Respond?," Environment and Planning C, , vol. 22(4), pages 605-619, August.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:envirc:v:22:y:2004:i:4:p:605-619
    DOI: 10.1068/c12r
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Strange,Susan, 1996. "The Retreat of the State," Cambridge Books, Cambridge University Press, number 9780521564298, September.
    2. Strange,Susan, 1996. "The Retreat of the State," Cambridge Books, Cambridge University Press, number 9780521564403, September.
    3. M. Doornbos, 2001. "'Good Governance': The Rise and Decline of a Policy Metaphor?," Journal of Development Studies, Taylor & Francis Journals, vol. 37(6), pages 93-108.
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