The new environmental compliance approvals regime starts today in Ontario. Most outstanding applications for certificates of approval will be automatically converted into applications for the new ECA, environmental compliance approval.
“The Ministry of the Environment is transforming its environmental approvals program. It has worked closely with business, industry and other stakeholders to introduce a new online system for faster, smarter and more streamlined environmental approvals. These program changes will begin to come into effect starting October 31, 2011.
The Environmental Activity and Sector Registry (EASR) is a faster, easier, online self-registration process. Businesses that engage in activities relating to heating systems, standby power systems and automotive refinishing, will be able to register these activities on the EASR. Starting October 31, 2011, the EASR will be accessible on the Service Ontario website (www.serviceontario.ca).
Activities that are not subject to the registration process may instead be required to obtain an Environmental Compliance Approval. If you have already submitted an application it will continue to be considered by the Ministry for approval. If, as of October 31, 2011, you have an existing Certificate of Approval (CofA), it will continue to apply and will be treated as an ECA after that date without any immediate action on your part.
To learn more about these program changes, visit: www.ontario.ca/environmentalapprovals. If you have further questions please contact us at [email protected].”