In the context of environmental, economic and social linkages between Canada, Mexico and the United States, the CEC facilitates effective cooperation and public participation to conserve, protect and enhance the North American environment in support of sustainable development for the benefit of present and future generations.
The Council is the CEC’s governing body and comprises cabinet-level representatives from Canada, Mexico and the United States
The Secretariat provides technical, administrative and operational support to the Council
The Joint Public Advisory Committee is comprised of 5 citizens from Canada, Mexico and the United States and advises the Council
In 1994, Canada, Mexico and the United States began collaborating in protecting North America’s environment through the North American Agreement on Environmental Cooperation (NAAEC). The NAAEC came into force at the same time as the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) and marked a commitment that liberalization of trade and economic growth in North America would be accompanied by effective cooperation and continuous improvement in the environmental protection provided by each country.
Accordingly, the NAAEC established an intergovernmental organization, the Commission for Environmental Cooperation, to support cooperation among the NAFTA partners to address environmental issues of continental concern, including the environmental challenges and opportunities presented by continent-wide free trade.
As of 2020, the CEC is recognized and maintained by the Environmental Cooperation Agreement parallel to the new Free Trade Agreement of North America
ECAThe CEC receives funding of the Government of Canada through Environment and Climate Change Canada, the Government of the United States of Mexico through the Secretaría de Medio Ambiente y Recursos Naturales, and the Government of the United States of America through the Environmental Protection Agency.
Through consultations, the JPAC creates a bridge of communication between the public and the Council, which improves the efficiency and transparency in large-scale processes such as projects, laws, and policies
Through meetings and open forums, the JPAC regularly invites the public to provide advice, insight and feedback on shared environmental priorities
How we implement appropriate mechanisms for consulting with the North American public
If you have reason to believe that an environmental law is not being effectively enforced by Canada, Mexico or the US, the SEM process may address your concerns
