The Ministry of Environment has released clarifying amendments to Protocol 1: Detailed Risk Assessment (DRA) to provide guidance on the intent and implementation of recent updates requiring consideration of climate change effects and First Nations' uses and interests. The amendments take effect January 15, 2027. 

Recent amendments clarify that qualified professionals are expected to use their professional judgement to consider where relevant: 

• Potential climate change effects on site contamination and risk control measures 
• First Nations’ uses and interests, as part of identifying all potential contaminant-pathway receptor combinations for a site  

The core purpose and risk-based framework of Protocol 1 remain unchanged. The updates do not introduce new obligations for consultation or approvals, nor do they alter existing regulatory roles or decision-making authority. 

UDI will be meeting with our Contaminated Sites Issues Committee to discuss the amendments and will continue to engage with the Ministry of Environment on this issue, keeping members informed. 

Additional information can be found in the clarifying amendments bulletin and Protocol 1 document.