ABSTRACT
This chapter examines the Canadian-hosted G8 environment ministers meeting held in Banff, Alberta, on 12-14 April 2002 as an example of civil society engagement in the G8 process. It highlights both the successes achieved and the improvements needed in the Canadian government's outreach and engagement programme. The chapter addresses lessons learned from this event and how these lessons can be applied to future ministerial meetings and summits. The town hall session was followed by a series of one-on-one meetings between senior officials and individuals or groups who requested more information or who wanted to provide input into the process. These individuals and groups included local environmental groups, businesses, town leaders, and the interested average individuals on the street. The youth drafted a declaration and presented it at the minister's round table meeting. The forum gave youth a new and positive relationship with the Royal Canadian Mounted Police and Environment Canada.
