In the Spotlight
Our Impact
Explore how the CEC’s work over the years has delivered tangible environmental and social outcomes across North America — from scientific studies that guided environmental standards, regulations and policies in Canada, Mexico and the United-States, to trinational conservation strategies, community grants and geospatial mapping projects. Whether you’re a policymaker, conservation expert, researcher or simply interested in North American environmental cooperation, this page offers a comprehensive overview of not only what the CEC has achieved — but how and why those efforts have unfolded.
Topics
Climate Change
Supporting emissions reduction and helping communities adapt to extreme weather events
Environmental Justice
The pursuit of environmental justice (EJ) aims to address historical inequities, marginalization and discrimination in how environmental benefits and burdens are enjoyed or suffered by certain communities.
Ecosystems
Working with communities to conserve and restore North America's terrestrial and marine ecosystems and priority species
Enforcement
Supporting enforcement and compliance with domestic environmental law and with multilateral environmental agreements
Sustainable Living and Economies
Advancing the sustainability of our economic activities and life choices by identifying and fostering alternatives that effectively integrate the environmental, social and economic dimensions for a just and resilient North America. Our work is organized around four main areas:
Pollutants
Promoting clean air, water and land through prevention, reductions, and sound management of pollutant releases, toxic chemicals and hazardous waste
Youth Engagement
Over the years, the CEC has been committed to youth engagement and the efforts supported have provided youth with opportunities to raise awareness, provide tangible, sustainable, and innovative solutions for environmental issues in their communities, and influence CEC’s strategies, projects, and initiatives.
Indigenous Affairs
The Commission for Environmental Cooperation (CEC) recognizes the essential role that Indigenous Peoples and local communities play in environmental stewardship across Turtle Island, Madre Tierra, also known as North America.
Private Sector Engagement
The private sector plays a critical role in driving economic prosperity, innovation and sustainable development.
Featured Project
Air Quality Improvement for Environmental Justice
2022 Active Pollutants
Featured Publication
Sharks and Marine Protected Areas in the Northeast Pacific
Strengthening Understanding and Spatial Protection Through Collaboration
October 24, 2022 50 pages Ecosystems
Sharks, rays, skates, and chimaeras are among the most vulnerable marine species globally, with many populations experiencing significant decline due to overfishing, habitat degradation, and a lack of effective management. Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) offer a promising tool for spatial conservation of these species, particularly when design is informed by shark biology, movement patterns, and life history characteristics, and when socioeconomic factors are considered.
To strengthen understanding and collaboration related to this topic in the Northeast Pacific, the Commission for Environmental Cooperation hosted two workshops that convened shark scientists and MPA practitioners from Canada, Mexico, and the United States in 2024 and 2025. This workshop report synthesizes the perspectives and insights of workshop participants, drawing attention to the importance of multidisciplinary and cross-jurisdictional collaboration.
What We Do
We conduct research, provide tools and training, and provide a unique space for decision-makers and the public to engage on environmental policy issues affecting the North American region.