Ministry Overview
Purpose of Ministry
British Columbia enjoys an exceptional wealth and diversity of ecosystems and natural resources. The Ministry of Environment
plays an essential role in encouraging and supporting the efforts of British Columbians to maintain a healthy environment
and the important benefits that accompany it — enhanced human health, sustainable economic development and a high quality
of life. We work to protect, manage and enhance the province's natural environment to help ensure that the benefits we enjoy
today will be available for our children and grandchildren in the future. We champion environmental stewardship, provide environmental
educational and promotional opportunities, engage stakeholders, and vigorously promote the sustainable use of the province's
environmental resources. We strive to enhance the protection and stewardship of water and air resources, ensure that healthy
and diverse native species and ecosystems are maintained and that outstanding recreation and wildlife services and opportunities
are available to all.
The success of our work relies heavily on our ability to form effective relationships with other government bodies, First Nations,
industry, associations, communities and environmental groups. The ministry's values of service, objectivity, integrity, excellence
and accountability are the foundation upon which we build these relationships and deliver our services.
The ministry delivers its programs and services through six core business areas functioning in seven divisions, and through
staff located in regional offices throughout the province (see Appendix B for the ministry's organizational chart). In addition
to Vancouver Island, we have offices in the Lower Mainland, Thompson, Okanagan, Kootenay, Cariboo, Skeena, Omineca and Peace
regions (see Appendix D for a complete list of our offices).
Our highly skilled and experienced staff are the front-line delivery agents for the province's environmental programs, assessments,
authorizations and compliance activities.
Compliance and enforcement are an essential part of the ministry's work and key to achieving the ministry's mandate. Together
with federal, First Nation and local governments, the ministry works to ensure that people visiting, living and working within
British Columbia comply with our environmental standards. Compliance activities include building awareness and promotion of
best environmental practices; developing cooperative partnerships and agreements; conducting monitoring activities, inspections
and audits; and undertaking investigations and enforcing our environmental laws where required. These activities are undertaken
by ministry program staff, park rangers and conservation officers.
Additionally, programs and services are provided by third-party delivery agents such as park facility operators. The ministry
also supports organizations such as the Habitat Conservation Trust Fund, the Freshwater Fisheries Society of B.C. and the
Pacific Salmon Endowment Fund Society, which in turn help to fund local programs that enhance the ministry's ability to fulfill
its mandate.
Legislation is the foundation upon which government delivers its programs and services. Significant legislation that drives
the ministry's mission and programs is listed below:
- Environmental Assessment Act
- Environmental Management Act
- Integrated Pest Management Act
- Park Act
- Protected Areas of British Columbia Act
- Water Act
- Wildlife Act
For a complete list of legislation administered by the ministry, see Appendix E.
Vision, Mission and Values
The ministry's vision and mission provide guidance and direction for planning and decision-making. Our values are the foundation
upon which we conduct our business, treat our staff and clients, and deliver public services.
Vision
A clean, healthy and naturally diverse environment.
Mission
Lead, inform, involve and support British Columbians to achieve the best environmental stewardship and sustainability.
Values
We believe in working with our clients, one another and our partners in a way that reflects:
- Service — We provide service that is responsive, adaptive and based on client needs.
- Objectivity — We perform our work in a professional manner that promotes an objective approach to environmental management.
- Integrity — We act in a truthful, ethical and transparent manner.
- Excellence — We encourage innovation, creative solutions and a culture of continuous learning.
- Accountability — We are efficient and effective in our work and accountable to the Legislature and the public for results.
- Wellness — We believe in a working environment that promotes health and well-being, and allows staff to achieve their highest potential.