Sustainable Development
Sustainable Development Strategy 2001
Minister's Message
Canada in the 21st century must become and
remain the world's "smartest" natural resources steward, developer,
user and exporter – the most high-tech, the most environmentally
friendly, the most socially responsible, the most productive
and competitive – leading the world as a living model of
sustainable development.
Developing our resources sustainably is crucial
to Canada's future. Sustainable development is absolutely essential
if the resources sector is to fulfil its role as a major engine
of economic growth and job creation in this country, helping to
provide the highest standard of living and quality of life to Canadians
in the 21st century.
Sustainable development is a constantly-evolving
process of identifying and seizing new opportunities to improve
the environmental and economic performance of the natural resources
sector to maximize social and economic benefits to Canadians.
Natural Resources Canada will capitalize on
these opportunities to maintain Canada's status as a global
leader in sustainable development so that the resources sector remains
a powerhouse of the new economy. We will advance sustainable development
through scientific knowledge, technological innovation, stewardship,
and building capacity for sustainable communities.Canadians will
continue to show the world that innovation and the integration of
technologies make it possible to diminish adverse environmental
impacts from resource development and use. This will achieve a cleaner
environment for all of us, while creating value-added, globally
competitive and ecologically responsible industries that maintain
a vibrant economy.
Factoring social, economic and environmental
considerations into decision-making, and respecting the needs, values
and property interests of all users of the land and its resources
is essential to making progress on sustainable development. Equally
essential is maintaining the integrity of natural ecosystems and
safeguarding our quality of life for Canadians, now and for the
future.
We have a shared responsibility to ensure this
future comes to fruition so that our children, and their children,
will continue to enjoy the extraordinary advantages that make Canadians
the envy of the world.
Ralph Goodale
February 2001
