The new results-based model will enhance environmental protection, while encouraging innovation. Saskatchewan's current regulatory regime was developed in the 1970s, to address industrial point source pollution and unregulated resource harvest. The new model represents a significant shift away from prescriptive legislation and regulations to a focus on holding proponents accountable for achieving desired environmental outcomes.

Elements of the results-based reform include:

• Legislative Updates
• A new Saskatchewan Environmental Code
• Modernized information technology and management - Coming Soon!
• Process mapping of value streams
• New compliance framework
• New Client Service Office
• Organizational changes
• Change management and cultural change

As part of a comprehensive review of environmental regulation in Saskatchewan, the Ministry of Environment contracted Clifton Associates to provide an assessment of the current regulatory model and legislation, as well as a benchmark against other jurisdictions, undertake consultation, and provide recommendations.

To support the new results-based approach, several key pieces of enabling legislation were modernized and introduced in the fall 2009 legislative session and passed by the legislature in spring 2010:

The Environmental Assessment Act
The Forest Resources Management Act
The Environmental Management and Protection Act
The Management and Reduction of Greenhouse Gases Act

The new or amended versions of these acts have been passed but have not yet been proclaimed, so they do not yet have the force of law.  Once initial sections of the Saskatchewan Environmental Code are completed, the new legislative framework will be brought into effect. The code, a key feature of the new results-based model, is targeted for completion in 2012.

We are interested in hearing what you think are the significant issues, challenges and solutions as we move forward to develop a results-based environmental regulatory framework. Send your feedback to RBRFeedback@gov.sk.ca