Damage Assessment involves evaluating and monetizing damages for compensation purposes. This process is meant to compliment enforcement activities by providing a framework for securing funds for restorative and prevention measures. In recognition of the growing need to address the issue of restoration of and compensation for environmental damages incurred as a result of pollution incidents Environment Canada has undertaken an initiative to develop and implement a national approach to environmental damage assessment and restoration. This paper will describe the steps taken by Canada to establish a practical framework for an environmental damage assessment/restoration process. It will highlight steps taken to reach consensus and to educate stakeholders, identify available legal instruments, describe development of guidelines/protocols for scientific assessment as well as the mechanism for decision making.

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