Overview
We are gathering feedback from stakeholders to help us modernize the Environmental Protection and Enhancement Act (EPEA) and 5 regulations that fall under the EPEA to reduce red tape, improve approval timelines and provide greater certainty while maintaining strong environmental protections.
The EPEA, Alberta’s primary environmental legislation, has not significantly changed in over 30 years. The EPEA balances environmental protection with responsible economic development and sustainable resource use, but some of the regulatory processes are unclear, outdated or unnecessary.
This work reflects our commitment to ensuring regulatory processes are clear and necessary for proponents seeking to invest and create jobs in Alberta.
Get informed
The Environmental Protection and Enhancement Act review maintains the foundational principles of the act, including the importance of environmental protection to ecosystems and human health, sustainable development, shared stewardship, the polluter-pays principle and opportunities for public input into regulatory processes.
In addition to the act, changes are being considered for the following foundational regulations:
- Environmental Protection and Enhancement (Miscellaneous) Regulation
- Approvals and Registration Procedures Regulation
- Environmental Assessment Regulation
- Activities Designation Regulation
- Environmental Assessment (Mandatory and Exempted Activities) Regulation
Stakeholder engagement
We will work directly with other regulators, industry operators, potentially impacted associations (aggregate, oil sands, consulting, forestry, oil and gas, and agricultural), environmental non-government organizations and municipalities to gather perspectives on the EPEA review through webinars, meetings and written submissions.
Webinars
Invited stakeholders can attend a webinar in October 2026. Each session will run about one hour, including time for questions and discussion.
Written submissions
Stakeholders can email a written submission to [email protected] by October 30, 2026.
How we got here
In March 2026, the Minister of Environment and Protected Areas directed the ministry to explore amendments to EPEA. This review advances the Minister’s mandate letter commitments.
In June 2026, Alberta’s government invited stakeholder associations to share priorities and practical ideas. We also gathered input from other regulators. This feedback shaped the themes now being explored through the Environmental Protection and Enhancement Act review engagement.
Outcomes
Feedback will help shape future changes to Alberta’s environmental legislation and regulations.
Contact
Connect with us about the review of the Environmental Protection and Enhancement Act:
Email: [email protected]