2. Methodology

The methodology used here is based on theory and practice. It includes a literature review, case studies, interviews and round tables organized to discuss and validate our conceptual framework and methodological approach.

Our process includes four stages:

• a literature review on the concept of quality of life;
• case studies of linear projects in Quebec and Ontario;
• interviews with environmental assessment experts; and
• the development of a conceptual framework and methodological approach, and their validation by experts.

Stage 1. Literature review on quality of life

The purpose of this initial stage is to examine existing literature on the concept of quality of life. Research was conducted using the Web, applicable databases and documentation accumulated over the years by team members. The key words and databases used are shown in Appendix 1.

Stage 2. Study of linear projects in Quebec and Ontario

This study is based largely on the Quebec experience, with elements drawn from an Ontario case study. Two types of linear projects were studied: power transmission lines and highway infrastructures.

Two case studies were selected after surveying some 10 environmental and social assessment professionals in Quebec, Ontario and at the Canadian Environmental Assessment Agency. These experts answered a brief questionnaire in French or English based on the four questions in Box 1.

The following two projects were chosen: the Des Cantons-Lévis power line in Quebec (early 1990s) and the Highway 407 extension in Ontario (late 1990s). In each case, we looked at all the documents filed, from the project notice to the government order and, ultimately, the follow-up report. We also looked at the preliminary studies, including the impact assessment, briefs and documents filed by the public. During this stage, we reviewed the problem of incorporating quality of life in projects and highlighted the concerns of various stakeholders (the public, decision makers, owners) as well as the gaps and recommendations in environmental assessment reports concerning this issue.

To support our work, we summarized Quebec's experiences based on a complete review of linear projects studied by the Office of Public Hearings on the Environment (BAPE). Since its creation as a forum for public expression on environmental issues, BAPE has organized 42 public consultations on projects involving road infrastructures and 11 on projects involving power transmission lines. ⁴ We looked at the resulting 53 reports and selected all the excerpts dealing with quality of life for use in our summary.

During the second stage of the project, we studied the impacts of linear projects on quality of life, as currently assessed, and we reviewed past approaches. This review was used to define the conceptual and methodological bases needed for the subsequent stages.

Stage 3. Interviews with experts

Considering the complexity of quality of life impact studies, we rounded out the information from the literature review and case studies by meeting professionals with experience in environmental and social assessments. These people were chosen to cover the various groups affected by impact studies: a government representative who developed directives and reviewed studies; two representatives of owners of linear projects; two consultants who had conducted impact studies on linear projects; a specialist in analysing issues involving public participation; a representative of an environmental agency or group involved in impact studies of linear projects; a representative of BAPE or public hearing boards; a public health professional; and two academics. The list of experts is in Appendix 2. The interviews, which took from 45 minutes to an hour, focussed on the major issues listed in Box 2.

Stage 4. Developing a conceptual framework and methodological approach

The literature review, case studies and interviews with experts helped us to design a conceptual framework for developing our methodology. The advisory and professional committees validated the conceptual framework and methodological approach at a round table. Discussions were reflected in a document that was submitted to these committee members for comment at the end of this stage.

4 - As of late 2001.