Gatineau – October 29, 2025 – Global Affairs Canada has determined that the proposed project is not likely to cause significant adverse environmental effects. 

This determination was based on a consideration of the following factors: 

• community knowledge; 

• comments received from the public; and 

• technically and economically feasible mitigation measures. 

Mitigation measures taken into account for this determination are:  

• To protect surface water resources, each desalination station includes a compacted clay evaporation pond lined with HDPE geomembrane to prevent direct brine discharge into natural ecosystems.

• To safeguard groundwater quality, monthly inspections and annual integrity tests are conducted on the evaporation ponds to detect any leakage or seepage, with immediate corrective action if needed.

• To reduce the risk of soil salinization, brine volumes are monitored and removed in a controlled manner once 70% of pond capacity is reached, ensuring safe disposal through licensed facilities.

• To protect aquatic ecosystems, evaporation ponds are located at least 25 meters from natural water bodies, with perimeter berms and drainage ditches to prevent overflow and contamination.

• To ensure soil and water protection, a quarterly environmental monitoring program is implemented, including measurements of electrical conductivity and groundwater quality near the ponds.

• To address concerns from local communities, a grievance mechanism is in place to allow residents to report any environmental impacts related to brine management.

• To prevent chemical contamination, water treatment chemicals are stored in sealed containers with secondary containment (≥110%) and spill kits are maintained on-site.

• To preserve wetland biodiversity, effluents are routed through vegetated drainage channels that provide natural filtration before reaching surface waters.

Global Affairs Canada is satisfied that that the carrying out of the project is not likely to cause significant adverse environmental effects. 

Therefore, Global Affairs Canada may carry out the project, exercise any power, perform any duty or function, or provide financial assistance to enable the project to be carried out in whole or in part.