An “ecosystem approach” to management is being embraced by many public sector, non-governmental and citizen-based institutions in the Great Lakes-St. Lawrence Basin. This approach recognizes that the environmental and economic attributes of the Basin are fundamentally linked and interdependent, as are the goals for environmental protection and economic development. It also recognizes that resources must be managed as part of dynamic and complex communities and ecosystems, rather than as separate and distinct elements. Practicing the ecosystem approach means that all partners government and private sector alike understand the implications of their actions and strive to avoid unintended adverse consequences.

The Ecosystem Charter summarizes, in a concise and convenient form, commonly held principles drawn from existing laws, treaties, agreements and policies. It includes a vision statement and a series of principles in the categories of rights and responsibilities; ecological integrity and diversity; sustainable communities; institutional relations; and public information, education and participation.