ESG

The federal government has launched public engagement on Canada's first National Water Security Strategy, seeking input on how to address freshwater challenges, protect ecosystems, and support water-dependent industries. Led by the Canada Water Agency, this initiative aims to establish a national roadmap for coordinating water management across jurisdictions while building upon existing provincial frameworks. Stakeholders have until October 25, 2026, to provide feedback on priorities, definitions, and imple

As extreme weather events intensify and become more frequent, construction projects face growing uncertainty over what constitutes "exceptionally adverse weather" under standard contracts like the JCT Design and Build Contract 2024. This analysis examines how weather-related delays are assessed, when extensions of time may be granted, and why parties should consider updating contractual thresholds to reflect evolving climate patterns and reduce the risk of costly disputes.

Australia's Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water has released consultation papers outlining the regulatory framework for the final phase of environmental protection reforms under the EPBC Act. With submissions closing on 13 October 2026 and implementation scheduled for 1 December 2026, these reforms will fundamentally reshape how projects are assessed and approved, introducing streamlined pathways...