DSDS 2017-2020 Update
- Executive summary.
- Section 1: Context for the Departmental Sustainable Development Strategy.
- Section 2: Sustainable Development in Natural Resources Canada.
- Section 3: Commitments for Natural Resources Canada.
- Section 4. Integrating sustainable development
- Conclusion
2017-2020
Departmental Sustainable Development Strategy
October 2017
© Her Majesty the Queen in Right of Canada, as represented by the Minister of Natural Resources, 2017
Cat. No. M2-16E-PDF
ISSN 2561-2530
Aussi disponible en français sous le titre :
Stratégie ministérielle de développement durable 2017-2020, Ressources naturelles Canada
Executive Summary
The Government of Canada is committed to a clean-growth future built on the dual cornerstones of economic prosperity and environmental protection. Central to this vision is sustainable development, which is defined as our ability to meet the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.
The Government’s plan for sustainable development begins with the Federal Sustainable Development Strategy (FSDS). It sets out the Government’s priorities, establishes its goals and targets, identifies actions to achieve those objectives, and provides performance indicators to measure the results. For example, the 2016-19 FSDS outlined 13 long-term goals to promote clean growth, ensure healthy ecosystems and build safe, secure and sustainable communities.
Natural Resources Canada (NRCan) has a significant role to play in these federal efforts by promoting the sustainable development of Canada’s energy, minerals, metals, and forests. This includes producing geographical, geological and other vital scientific information to support decision making about Canada’s land-based and offshore resources, as well as the management of these lands.
This 2017-20 Departmental Sustainable Development Strategy (DSDS) outlines how NRCan contributes to the Government’s long-term goals in the FSDS by promoting environmental stewardship at the same time that it helps ensure that Canada’s natural resource sectors are globally competitive, that Canadians are making smart, environmentally sound consumer purchases and that our lands and resources are being wisely managed to ensure greater public safety.
The DSDS is also an opportunity for NRCan to demonstrate its contributions to important domestic initiatives and international commitments — including the Pan-Canadian Framework on Clean Growth and Climate Change, which is a blueprint to reduce Canada’s greenhouse gas emissions, spur innovation, adapt to climate change and create good jobs across the country. It also illustrates how the Department supports the Minister of Natural Resources in addressing priorities set by the Prime Minister. As part of these efforts to advance sustainable development in concrete ways, the Department works closely with partners such as the provinces and territories, Indigenous peoples, communities, industry, academia and non-governmental organizations.
This three-year DSDS will be updated annually to reflect new and emerging priorities and initiatives that further improve the quality of life of Canadians and ensure Canada’s place as one of the greenest countries in the world.
Section 1
Context for the Departmental Sustainable Development Strategy
The 2016–19 Federal Sustainable Development Strategy (FSDS) presents the Government of Canada’s sustainable development goals and targets, as required by the Federal Sustainable Development Act. In keeping with the objectives of the Act to integrate environmental, social and economic considerations into decision-making, and make such decisions more transparent and accountable to Parliament, NRCan supports reaching the goals laid out in the FSDS through the activities described in this DSDS.
Section 2
Sustainable Development in Natural Resources Canada
The sustainable development of Canada’s natural resources — including our vast energy reserves, minerals and metals, and forests — is a centrepiece of NRCan’s mandate achieved through the promotion of clean growth for these sectors. The Department supports Canada’s resource industries to ensure they remain a source of good jobs and enduring prosperity while also helping them to adopt innovative new ways to enhance their competitiveness, improve their environmental performance, strengthen their relationships with Indigenous peoples and build public confidence.
Of the 13 long-term goals outlined in the 2016-19 FSDS, the Minister of Natural Resources is responsible for leading on the Government’s Clean Energy goal and serves as a co-leader for both Clean Growth and Sustainably Managed Lands and Forests. As well, the Minister shares responsibilities for Low Carbon Government and is an important contributor on five other goals: Effective Action on Climate Change, Modern and Resilient Infrastructure, Healthy Coasts and Oceans, Pristine Lakes and Rivers, and Safe and Healthy Communities.
While NRCan’s departmental actions contribute to numerous FSDS goals at the same time, they are presented only once in this DSDS to avoid repetition.
FSDS GOAL: CLEAN ENERGY
All Canadians have access to affordable, reliable and sustainable energy
Minister of Natural Resources: lead
Canada already boasts one of the world’s cleanest electricity markets and its development of clean technology is leading to other innovative energy solutions. Building on this success will be essential to Canada’s transition to the low-carbon economy. A cleaner energy system will also lower our greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions while increasing Canada’s climate resilience and reducing our impact on our land and wildlife species.
The Prime Minister’s mandate letter to the Minister of Natural Resources makes clear that clean energy is a top priority. For example, by working with the provinces and territories, the Minister is developing a Canadian Energy Strategy to protect Canada’s energy security, encourage energy conservation, and bring cleaner, renewable energy onto a smarter electricity grid.
The Prime Minister has also asked the Minister to work with the Minister of Environment and Climate Change and the Minister of Foreign Affairs to develop an ambitious North American clean energy and environmental agreement with the United States and Mexico.
In addition, the Minister leads or supports commitments under the Pan-Canadian Framework on Clean Growth and Climate Change to deliver the FSDS’s Clean Energy goal. This includes implementing new building codes and introducing energy efficiency measures to help Canadians understand their energy use and save money on their utility bills. It also includes establishing new electric vehicle charging stations as well as natural gas and hydrogen refuelling stations.
FSDS GOAL: CLEAN GROWTH
A growing clean technology industry in Canada contributes to clean growth and the transition to a low-carbon economy
Minister of Natural Resources: co-lead
A strong economy and a clean environment must go hand in hand in the low-carbon economy. Investing in clean technology and supporting innovation is a key part of that and will help Canadian companies grow and position themselves as world leaders in the clean technology market.
The Prime Minister’s mandate letter to the Minister of Natural Resources confirms the Clean Growth goal as a top priority shared with the Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development and emphasizes the importance of supporting clean technology producers to tackle Canada’s most pressing environmental challenges while creating more opportunities for Canadian workers. One of the ways NRCan is doing all of this is by investing in clean energy technology to support the goals of Mission Innovation, a multi-country initiative to accelerate global clean energy innovation and make clean energy more widely available and affordable.
FSDS GOAL: SUSTAINABLY MANAGED LANDS AND FORESTS
Lands and forests support biodiversity and provide a variety of ecosystem services for generations to come
Minister of Natural Resources: co-lead
Protecting and sustainably using lands and forests is necessary to ensure their long-term benefits for Canada. These benefits are diverse and include protecting habitat for wildlife populations and supporting the well-being of Canadians through ecosystem services, as well as contributing to the Canadian economy and preserving traditional uses of lands and forests by Indigenous peoples.
Under the Department of Natural Resources Act, the Minister is responsible for sustainable development and the responsible use of Canada’s forest resources, as well as enhancing the competitiveness of Canada’s forest products. In addition, the Forestry Act mandates the Department’s Canadian Forest Service to conduct research and provide information and advice to promote the protection, sustainable management, and wise use of forest resources. In September 2016, the Canadian Council of Forest Ministers also committed the federal, provincial and territorial governments to work together to develop a National Forest Bioeconomy Framework by fall 2017 to support further economic growth in a clean and sustainable manner.
FSDS GOAL: LOW-CARBON GOVERNMENT
The Government of Canada leads by example by making its operations low-carbon
Minister of Natural Resources: supportFootnote 1 (lead for his portfolio)
The Government of Canada is committed to leading efforts to combat climate change while continuing to contribute to the broader economy. With its vast operations, its extensive use of goods and services and its procurement practices, the Government has an opportunity to support the transition to a low-carbon economy by stimulating the clean-tech sector, contributing to Canada’s international climate change commitments and realizing substantial cost savings.
NRCan is supporting this FSDS goal through a range of measures to reduce its carbon footprint, such as improving the energy efficiency of its own buildings, reducing its fleet emissions and modernizing its infrastructure to support the use of electric vehicles. In addition, NRCan supports other federal departments and agencies by providing technical advice to assist them in developing and implementing their own projects to save energy and reduce GHG emissions.
FSDS GOAL: EFFECTIVE ACTION ON CLIMATE CHANGE
A low-carbon economy contributes to limiting global average temperature rise to well below two degrees Celsius and supports efforts to limit the increase to 1.5 degrees Celsius
Minister of Natural Resources: support
Climate change is a pressing global problem that, if left unchecked, could affect the ability of future generations to meet their basic needs. Effective action on climate change starts with the transition to a low-carbon economy that reduces our GHG emissions while continuing to increase our prosperity.
Under the Pan-Canadian Framework on Clean Growth and Climate Change, NRCan is leading on a wide range of initiatives that includes extending ENERGY STAR certification to industrial buildings, improving the energy efficiency of vehicles and investing in green infrastructure such as a national network of electrical vehicle charging stations. The Department also provides knowledge and tools to Canadian communities to adapt to a changing climate and plans for sectors to succeed in the new economy.
FSDS GOAL: MODERN AND RESILIENT INFRASTRUCTURE
Modern, sustainable, and resilient infrastructure supports clean economic growth and social inclusion
Minister of Natural Resources: support
Green infrastructure, which includes everything from water and wastewater systems and clean energy to climate resilient infrastructure (such as flood mitigation systems) and infrastructure to protect against climate change, preserves the natural environment, supports healthy and resilient communities, drives economic growth and improves our quality of life.
One of NRCan’s main priorities is to promote the transition towards low-carbon options in transportation, as well as improving international regulatory alignments by enhancing energy codes for buildings, to support this FSDS goal.
FSDS GOAL: HEALTHY COASTS AND OCEANS
Coasts and oceans support healthy, resilient and productive ecosystems
Minister of Natural Resources: support
Canada has unparalleled ocean resources and protecting our waters is critical to the lives and livelihoods of all Canadians. Increased development and marine shipping provide economic benefits, but they also pose risks such as the potential for oil spills that have an environmental impact on our fisheries and coastlines. In addition, preserving and expanding marine protected areas will help address environmental challenges.
Working with other departments and agencies, NRCan generates scientific knowledge and conducts economic analysis to support better protection of our coasts and oceans and assist with oil spill prevention in targeted vulnerable areas.
FSDS GOAL: PRISTINE LAKES AND RIVERS
Clean and healthy lakes and rivers support economic prosperity and the well-being of Canadians
Minister of Natural Resources: support
Healthy lakes and rivers sustain a rich variety of plants and animals. They also supply drinking water to millions of Canadians, provide opportunities for swimming, boating and recreational fishing, and support economic activities such as tourism, commercial fisheries, agriculture and shipping. All of these things can be threatened by pollution, climate change and invasive alien species of plants and animals that affect our lakes and rivers and the benefits they provide.
NRCan generates scientific knowledge to advance our understanding of lake and river ecosystems (including groundwater) and assists with protecting their health. The Department also works with partners to advance water quality and the health of these ecosystems through research and technology development that minimize the environmental effects of resource development.
FSDS GOAL: SAFE AND HEALTHY COMMUNITIES
All Canadians live in clean, sustainable communities that contribute to their health and well-being
Minister of Natural Resources: support
Ensuring that Canadians enjoy a clean, safe environment in which to live is important to their health and well-being. Among other things, this means reducing pollution to improve air quality, protecting them from harmful substances and preventing environmental emergencies (or reducing their impact if they do occur).
NRCan contributes to this FSDS goal by preventing and mitigating the impacts of natural and human-made hazards. For example, the Department develops early warning tools for these hazards and monitors environmental emergencies such as earthquakes, tsunamis, volcanoes and landslides. Through its science and tools, NRCan assists other organizations with disaster management and ecosystem monitoring. The Department also enhances the safety and security of energy transportation infrastructure, such as oil and gas pipelines.
Section 3
Commitments for Natural Resources Canada
Clean Energy
All Canadians have access to affordable, reliable and sustainable energy
Responsible Minister: Minister of Natural Resources
| Clean Energy FSDS target(s) | FSDS Contributing Action(s) | Corresponding departmental action(s) | Contribution by each departmental action to the FSDS goal and target | Starting point(s) where available, and performance indicators for departmental actions | Program(s) in which the departmental actions will occur |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
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By 2030, 90% and in the long term, 100% of Canada’s electricity is generated from renewable and non-emitting sources
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Invest in clean energy technologies |
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By improving the viability of technologies, contribute to increased deployment and use of renewable and non-emitting energy sources. By funding clean energy development and demonstration projects that reduce cost and address technical hurdles, contribute to the deployment of next-generation of clean energy technologies.. |
Number of innovative materials technologies developed, contributed to, or validated by NRCan for use in power generation systems. Target: 2 by 2020Footnote 2
Ratio of NRCan program investments in clean energy S&T to leveraged funding from partners Target: 1:1 ratio |
Clean Energy Technology Policy, Research and Engagement
Energy Innovation Program
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By advancing nuclear research in support of core federal mandates, including clean energy, health and non-proliferation, contribute to energy generation from non-emitting sources. |
The number of discrete federal, activities and projects that are initiated. Target: 5 discrete projects / initiatives undertaken per year |
Electricity Resources |
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Promote collaboration and work with partners on clean energy |
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By supporting the transition to low-carbon economy, contribute to electricity infrastructure powered by clean energy. |
Number of quality products made available to decision makers in a timely manner. Target: Two regional reports that identify the most promising electricity infrastructure projects that can significantly reduce GHG emissions in the Western and Eastern Canadian electricity systems by March 2018Footnote 3 |
Electricity Resources |
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By articulating Canada's approach to the management of nuclear energy resources, contribute to future energy generation from non-emitting sources. |
The number of discrete federal, provincial and territorial activities and projects that are initiated Target: Greater than 2 discrete projects/ initiatives undertaken per year |
Electricity Resources Clean Growth in Natural Resource Sectors |
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Support voluntary action to reduce GHG and air pollutant emissions through clean energy generation and consumption
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By supporting the transition towards non-emitting sources in clean electricity, contribute to industry capacity to produce renewable forms of energy. |
Number of terawatt-hours (TWh) of renewable electricity produced Target: 10.2 TWh (equivalent to the annual power consumption of a typical Canadian city of about 750,000 people) |
Electricity Resources |
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By developing a legislative framework allowing to administer marine renewable energy projects in the federal offshore, contribute to future electricity generation from renewable sources. |
Starting point: There is no existing legislative framework Target: A legislative framework is in place by 2019 |
Electricity Resources |
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By supporting the transition towards non-emitting sources in clean electricity, contribute to rural and remote community capacity to produce renewable forms of energy. |
Starting point: This is a new program. Target: 40 MW of electricity capacity supported by end of 2022/23 installedFootnote 5. |
Electricity Resources | ||
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By supporting the use of smart grid technology, contribute to industry capacity to reduce GHG emissions and to optimize existing electricity assets. |
Starting point: This is a new program Target: Reduction of GHG emissions of 0.7 MT by 2027/2028Footnote 5 |
Electricity Resources | ||
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By supporting emerging renewable technologies, contribute to the installed capacity of renewable electricity generation. |
Starting point: This is a new program Target: Four support projects commissioned by the end of FY 2022/23Footnote 5. |
Electricity Resources | ||
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Support voluntary action to reduce GHG and air pollutant emissions through clean energy generation and consumption Footnote 6 |
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By supporting the transition to a cleaner transportation system and making low-carbon vehicles more attractive to Canadians, contribute to reductions in energy consumption. |
Vehicle purchases influenced by NRCan fuel efficiency information products and tools (qualitative analysis on usefulness of information provided) Target: Fuel efficiency ranks in the top 3 purchasing decision factors for LDV by March 31, 2021 |
Lower Carbon Transportation |
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Invest in clean energy technologies Footnote 7
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By identifying and phasing out inefficient fossil fuel subsidies that encourage wasteful consumption, contribute to increased deployment and use of renewable and non-emitting energy sources. |
Year by which fossil fuel subsidies have been phased out. Target: fossil fuel subsidies are phased out by 2025 |
Energy Safety and Security, and Petroleum Resources |
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By providing energy management tools, contribute to energy efficiency in Canada's commercial sector. |
Starting point: There is no existing certification program for buildings Target: Introduction of ENERGY STAR® certification for buildings by 2018 |
Energy Efficiency |
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By raising awareness of the benefits of energy management in industry operations, contribute to energy efficiency. |
Energy saved by industry in petajoules from energy efficiency programs Target: 23.2 petajoules saved annually (equivalent to the annual energy used by more than 208,800 typical Canadian households, excluding transportation) in 2021-22 |
Energy Efficiency |
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By helping to improve energy management in Canada's industrial sector, contribute to energy efficiency. |
Energy saved by industry in petajoules from energy efficiency programs Target: 23.2 petajoules saved annually (equivalent to the annual energy used by more than 208,800 typical Canadian households, excluding transportation) in 2021-22 |
Energy Efficiency |
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Play a leading role in international agreements and initiatives involving clean energy Footnote 8
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By working alongside international partners, contribute to further advancing clean growth, clean energy and climate change mitigation goals and the long-term decarbonisation of the economy.
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NRCan undertakes bilateral and multilateral agreements and initiatives with key partners that advance Canadian priorities for clean energy. (signed at the Assistant Deputy Minister level or above).
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International Energy Engagement.
Clean Growth in Natural Resource Sectors |
Clean Growth
A growing clean technology industry in Canada contributes to clean growth and the transition to a low-carbon economy
Responsible Minister: Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development and Minister of Natural Resources
| Clean Growth FSDS target(s) |
FSDS Contributing Action(s) | Corresponding departmental action(s) | Contribution by each departmental action to the FSDS goal and target | Starting point(s) where available, and performance indicators for departmental actions | Program(s) in which the departmental actions will occur |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
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Implement our Mission Innovation commitment to double federal government investments in clean energy research, development and demonstration, by 2020, from 2015 levels |
Work with partners on developing and adopting new technologies to reduce GHG and air pollutant emissions
|
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By funding clean energy development and demonstration projects that reduce cost and address technical hurdles, contribute to the deployment of next-generation of clean energy technologies. |
Ratio of NRCan program investments in clean energy S&T to leveraged funding from partners Target: 1:1 ratio Starting point: Federal investments of $387 million in clean energy RD&D in 2014-2015 Doubling Government of Canada’s federal investments for clean energy RD&D Target: Federal investments of $775 million in clean energy RD&D by 2019-20. |
Clean Growth in Natural Resource Sectors Clean Energy Technology Policy, research and Engagement Energy Innovation Program
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Invest in technologies to reduce GHG and air pollutant emissions Footnote 9 |
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By expanding RD&D cooperation and investment, contribute to a reduction in reliance on diesel and in energy consumption. |
Number of demonstration projects implemented supporting the development of one or more technologies.
Target: 3 demonstration projects implemented by 2023” |
Green Mining Innovation |
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By funding clean technology development and demonstration projects that reduce cost and address technical hurdles, contribute to the deployment of next-generation of clean technologies. |
Ratio of NRCan program investments in clean technology to leveraged funding from partners Target: 1:1 ratio Starting point: emission levels of 2016-17 Through NRCan supported RD&D, reduce GHG emissions from past and ongoing clean technology projects Target: A decrease in emissions of 1 million tonnes a year (equivalent to 250,000 passenger cars removed from our roads) starting in 2017-18 |
Energy Innovation Program Clean Growth in Natural Resource Sectors
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By improving the viability of technologies, contribute to increased deployment and use of safer, and more energy efficient materials. |
Number of innovative materials technologies or standards developed, contributed to, or validated by NRCan for use in the safe transportation of hydrocarbons and to reduce emissions in the transportation and industrial sectors Target: 3 over 5 years |
Clean Energy Technology Policy, Research and Engagement Energy Innovation Program
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Support voluntary action to reduce GHG and air pollutant emissions Footnote 10
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Provide financial contributions to FPInnovations, other forest sector research partners and eligible forest product companies for RD&D of new products, processes and technologies focused on clean energy such as biofuels |
By providing stakeholders with resources, contribute to increased energy efficiency, improved productivity and associated environmental benefits related to the forest industry. |
Number of new products and processes resulting from NRCan information. Target: 2 per year Number of new economic development projects facilitated, brokered, and/or developed in/by Indigenous communities with NRCan knowledge and funding. Target: 8 per year
Annual research plan endorsed by the FPInnovations National Research Advisory Committee. Target: 1 endorsed research plan per year |
Forest Sector Competitiveness
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Invest in technologies to reduce water pollution Footnote 11 |
Develop new technology or processes to reduce the environmental footprint of mining operations, such as minimal liquid discharge mill using advanced separation and water treatment technologies |
By developing technologies to help ecosystem restoration, and the treatment and the reuse of water, contribute to cleaner mining operations. |
Number of pilot-scale demonstration for water management in mining and mineral processing completed.
Target: at least one by 2020 |
Green Mining Innovation |
Sustainably Managed Lands and Forests
Lands and forests support biodiversity and provide a variety of ecosystem services for generations to come
Responsible Minister: Minister of Environment and Climate Change; Minister of Natural Resources
| Sustainably Managed Lands and Forests FSDS target(s) | FSDS Contributing Action(s) | Corresponding departmental action(s) | Contribution by each departmental action to the FSDS goal and target | Starting point(s) where available, and performance indicators for departmental actions | Program(s) in which the departmental actions will occur |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Between now and 2020, maintain Canada’s annual timber harvest at or below sustainable wood supply levels | Better understand lands and forests |
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By providing scientific knowledge on forest ecosystems to Canadian industry and non-government organizations, contribute to a reduction in tree loss due to a changing climate and thereby helping to maintain sustainable wood supply levels and supporting an annual sustainable timber harvest. This includes information on preparedness against natural hazards and risk mitigation of natural disasters, maximizing opportunities and minimizing risks associated with climate change. |
Starting point: 100 advisory boards and committees Number of times end users have access to indicators and tools (by website, presentation and meetings) to support the development of regional integrated assessments). |
Forest Climate Change Pest Risk Management |
| Use legislation and regulations to manage the spread of invasive alien species |
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By enabling better decision-making on how to protect and manage Canadian forests under uncertainty, contribute to maintaining sustainable wood supply levels. |
Starting point: 100 advisory boards and committees Participation of the Canadian Forest Service on advisory boards or committees involving the sharing of knowledge on forest disturbances to governments, industry, and non-governmental organizations Target: Participation on advisory boards and committees stays within 10% of starting point |
Pest Risk Management | |
| Build capacity and provide support |
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By strengthening collaboration and providing governments, agencies and industry with scientific knowledge and technologies on wildland fire, contribute to a reduction in tree loss due to wildland fire and thereby helping to maintain sustainable wood supply levels. This knowledge helps all parties understand the impacts of climate change on wildland fire activity to better deliver solutions and emergency preparedness. |
Starting point: 100 advisory boards and committees Participation of the Canadian Forest Service on advisory boards or committees involving the sharing of knowledge on forest disturbances to governments, industry, and non-governmental organizations Target: Participation on advisory boards and committees stays within 10% of starting point |
Wildfire Risk Management | |
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By looking into opportunities of collaboration, contribute to adaptation to a changing climate and the creation of jobs in the forest sector, and helping to maintain sustainable wood supply levels. |
Developing a forest bioeconomy framework Target: 1 framework endorsed with annual reporting, as agreed by the members of the Canadian Council of Forest Ministers |
Forest Sector Competitiveness | ||
| Work with domestic and international partners |
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By providing scientific and technical knowledge, contribute to the production of a wildland fire research strategy and national forest pest strategy, addressing current priorities and helping to maintain sustainable wood supply levels. |
Starting point:100 advisory boards and committees Participation of the Canadian Forest Service on advisory boards or committees involving the sharing of knowledge on forest disturbances to governments, industry, and non-governmental organizations Target: Participation on advisory boards and committees stays within 10% of starting point |
Wildfire Risk Management Pest Risk Management |
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| Build capacity and provide support Footnote 12 |
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By supporting sustainable development and climate change adaptation efforts in Indigenous communities, contribute to a sustainable forest sector. |
Number of new economic development projects facilitated, brokered, and/or developed in/by Indigenous communities with NRCan knowledge and funding Target: 8 new projects annually, facilitated, brokered, and/or developed with NRCan knowledge and funding Annual research plan endorsed by the FPInnovations National Research Advisory Committee that includes linkages with forecasted needs and priorities for Indigenous communities Target: 1 endorsed research plan per year. |
Forest Sector Competitiveness | |
| Better understand lands and forests Footnote 13 |
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By providing governments, agencies and industry with scientific knowledge on best mine waste management strategies, contribute to improved ecosystem restoration. |
Scientific evidence (e.g. publications, reports) used for environmental policy/guidance development. Target: 3 by 2023. |
Green Mining Innovation |
Low-Carbon Government
The Government of Canada leads by example by making its operations low-carbon
Responsible Minister: All ministers
|
Low-Carbon Government |
FSDS Contributing Action(s) |
Corresponding departmental action(s) |
Contribution by each departmental action to the FSDS goal and target |
Starting point(s) where available, and performance indicators for departmental actions |
Program(s) in which the departmental actions will occur |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
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Reduce GHG emissions from federal government buildings and fleets by 40% below 2005 levels by 2030, with an aspiration to achieve this reduction by 2025 |
Improve the energy efficiency of our buildings/operations |
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By reducing energy use through efficiency measures, contribute to reduced GHG emissions by the Department. |
Percentage (%) change in GHG emissions from facilities and fleets from fiscal year 2005-06 to 2030. Target: 40% reduction in NRCan facility and fleet emissions by 2030 from 2005 levels.Footnote 14 |
Energy Efficiency Clean Energy Technology Policy, Research and Engagement Internal Services |
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By reducing energy use through efficiency measures, contribute to reduced GHG emissions by the Department. |
Percentage (%) change in GHG emissions from facilities from fiscal year 2005-06 to 2030
Target: 40% reduction (or 12.8 kilotons) in NRCan facility emissions by 2030 from 2005 levels |
Energy Efficiency Clean Energy Technology Policy, Research and Engagement Internal Services
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By aligning with Workplace 2.0 standards, contribute to improved energy efficiency of the Department`s buildings. |
5% of office space is currently meeting Workplace 2.0 standards on NRCan’s primary office location in the National Capital Region, the Booth Street Complex (555, 601, 615, 580 and 588 Booth St. and 560 Rochester St.). Target: 25 % of office workspace at the Booth Street Complex that is to Workplace 2.0 standards by 2025 |
Internal Services
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By providing tools and technical support to federal organizations for greening their buildings and fleet, contribute to reduced GHG emissions by the Government of Canada. |
Energy saved in terajoules per year for all federal organization projects that received support from NRCan. Targets:
Number of federal organizations (departments, agencies and Crown corporations) provided with information, tools and services to improve energy performance of federal buildings. Target: Total increase from 64 to 70 by 2022 |
Energy Efficiency Clean Energy Technology Policy, Research and Engagement |
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By updating and modernizing BMP and BCR processes, contribute to energy efficiency and improved environmental performance of the Department`s buildings. |
NRCan began a new multi-year round of BCRs in the 2016-17 fiscal year. Target: 50% of major sites will have BCR completed by 2020-21 that would provide current “health” status of the building portfolio, a prerequisite to the planning of any improvement |
Internal Services |
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Modernize our fleet Footnote 15 |
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By reducing energy use through efficiency measures, contribute to reduced GHG emissions from the Department`s fleet. |
Starting point: GHG emissions from NRCan fleet in fiscal year 2005–06 (base year): = 1.78 ktCO2e Current results: GHG emissions from NRCan fleet in fiscal year 2016-17 = 0.76 ktCO2eq Percentage (%) change in GHG emissions from fleet from fiscal year 2005-06 to fiscal year 2016–17 = 57% 3
Target: 40% by 2030 |
Energy Efficiency Clean Energy Technology Policy, Research and Engagement Internal Services |
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By performing vehicle usage analysis to determine the lowest emitting option, including supporting greater zero emission vehicle deployment, fleet right-sizing, fuel switching, and driver training, contribute to reduced GHG emissions by the Department`s fleet. |
NRCan had two electric vehicle charging stations in the National Capital region at the end of 2016. Target: 2 new electric charging stations to be installed by the end of the 2017-18 |
Energy Efficiency Internal Services
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Support the transition to a low-carbon economy through green procurement |
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By embedding environmental considerations related to purchasing decisions into the corporate culture, contribute to greener procurement. |
Number and percentage of managers and functional heads of materiel and of procurement whose performance evaluation includes support and contribution toward green procurement is 8 (88%). Target: 90% by March 31, 2019 and ongoing |
Internal Services |
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By embedding environmental considerations related to purchasing decisions into the corporate culture, contribute to greener procurement. |
Number and percentage of procurement and/or materiel management specialists who completed the Canada School of Public Service Green Procurement course (C215) or equivalent, in current fiscal year is 31. Target: 97% (or 34 specialists) by March 31, 2019Footnote 16 |
Internal Services |
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Promote sustainable travel practises |
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By promoting sustainable travel practises and informing employees of alternative meeting arrangements (such as teleconferencing or videoconferencing), contribute to reduced GHG emissions. |
Emission associated with business-related travel in tons of carbon dioxide equivalent in the year as provided by Public Services and Procurement Canada (5729 tons in 2008-09). Target: Greenhouse gas emissions associated with business travel will be reduced by 30% (to 4010 tons) by March 31, 2021 |
Internal Services |
Effective Action on Climate Change
A low-carbon economy contributes to limiting global average temperature rise to well below two degrees Celsius and supports efforts to limit the increase to 1.5 degrees Celsius
Responsible Minister: Minister of Environment and Climate Change; supported by a whole-of-government approach to implementation
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Effective Action on Climate Change FSDS target(s) |
FSDS Contributing Action(s) |
Corresponding departmental action(s) |
Contribution by each departmental action to the FSDS goal and target |
Starting point(s) where available, and performance indicators for departmental actions |
Program(s) in which the departmental actions will occur |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
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By 2030, reduce Canada’s total GHG emissions by 30%, relative to 2005 emission levels |
Use regulations to limit GHG emissions |
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By setting minimum energy performance standards to improve the energy performance of appliances and equipment sold for homes and buildings across Canada, contribute to reduced GHG emissions. |
Energy savings (petajoules) from regulated products and market transformation. Starting point: 2.35 petajoules saved in 2015-16 Target: 15.5 petajoules saved annually (equivalent to the annual energy used by approximately 139,500 typical Canadian households, excluding transportation) by 2021 |
Energy Efficiency |
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Work with partners on climate change |
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By helping industry to maximize efficiency and to reduce energy use in its freight operations, contribute to reduced GHG emissions. |
Starting point: 0% Percentage of SmartWay freight transport companies that implement lower carbon transportation options. Target 60% annually (maintained each year until 2021) |
Energy Efficiency |
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By focusing on environmental and competitiveness objectives in the areas of end use, clean energy and renewables, and fossil fuels, contribute to reduced GHG emissions. |
Starting point: emission levels of 2016-17 Through NRCan supported RD&D, reduce GHG emissions (from past and ongoing clean energy technology projects). Target: A decrease in emissions of 1 million tonnes per year (equivalent to 250,000 passenger cars removed from our roads) starting in 2017-18 |
Energy Innovation Program |
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Support voluntary action to reduce GHG emissions and adapt to climate change |
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By collaborating with provinces and territories on buildings and industrial sector programs, contribute to improved energy efficiency and reduced GHG emissions. |
Energy saved in petajoules from the energy efficiency programs in the building sector Target: 265 petajoules saved (equivalent to the annual energy used by approximately 2,385,500 typical Canadian households, excluding transportation) in 2021 from energy efficiency programs funded in the building sector Energy saved by industry in petajoules from energy efficiency programs Target: 23.2 petajoules saved annually (equivalent to the annual energy used by more than 208,800 typical Canadian households, excluding transportation) in 2021-22 |
Energy Efficiency |
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By supporting RD&D in the oil and gas sector, contribute to the transition towards a low-carbon economy and reduced GHG emissions. |
Through NRCan supported RD&D contribute to reducing methane emissions in the oil and gas sector. Target: Contribute to the national target of reducing methane emissions by 40% to 45% by 2025. |
Energy Innovation Program |
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By supporting scientific measurements and the monitoring of Carbon fluxes, we better understand land management decisions to support resilient ecosystems. |
Starting point: report annually Annual report on carbon emissions and removals in Canada’s managed forests within “The State of Canada’s Forests”. Target: 1 report per year. |
Forest Climate Change |
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Take a leading role in international agreements and initiatives on climate change Footnote 17 |
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By promoting Canada’s interests and working towards Canada's commitments in international agreements and initiatives on climate change and clean energy, contribute to reduced GHG emissions. |
Percentage of Canada’s objectives for meetings of international climate and clean energy fora that are advanced through negotiations and consensus. Target: 70% |
International Energy Engagement Clean Growth in Natural Resource Sectors |
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Work with partners on climate change Footnote 18 |
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By helping Canadian communities and businesses in natural resource sectors identify and prioritize activities, contribute to adaptation to a changing climate. |
Number of new knowledge products released by the Climate Change Adaptation Platform and the Climate Change Geoscience Program. Target: 40 new knowledge products by March 31, 2019 |
Climate Change Adaptation |
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Conduct climate policy research and analysis Footnote 19 |
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By providing tools and information to support decision making on climate change and clean energy issues, contribute to reduced GHG emissions. |
Percentage of tools and information made available to decision makers in a timely manner. Target: 100% |
International Energy Engagement |
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Provide in-kind support and funding for climate resilience Footnote 20 |
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By enabling communities and businesses in natural resource sectors across Canada to have access to new knowledge on risks and opportunities to support decision-making and action, contribute to adaptation to a changing climate. |
Percentage of communities and businesses in natural-resource sectors reporting they have access to tools and information for adaptation decision making.. Target: 50% |
Climate Change Adaptation |
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Develop a solid base of scientific research and analysis on climate change Footnote 21 |
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By providing governments, agencies and industry with scientific knowledge on forest disturbances, including wildland fire, contribute to the mitigation of effects from and adaptation to a changing climate. |
Starting point: 100 advisory boards and committees Participation of the Canadian Forest Service on advisory boards or committees involving the sharing of knowledge on forest disturbances to governments, industry, and non-governmental organizations Target: Participation on advisory boards and committees stays within 10% of starting point Number of active collaborations with public and private sectors that manage risk or opportunities to human population, natural resources and infrastructure health Target: Collecting data on 3 collaboration agreements per year |
Forest Climate Change Pest Risk Management Wildfire Risk Management |
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By providing stakeholder access to comprehensive, reliable and accurate geospatial information consistent with international standards, contribute to the mitigation of effects from a changing climate. |
Number of times geospatial information tools and services are accessed
Target: 4 hours or less |
Innovative Geopatial Solutions |
Modern and Resilient Infrastructure
Modern, sustainable, and resilient infrastructure supports clean economic growth and social inclusion
Responsible Minister: Minister of Infrastructure and Communities
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Modern and Resilient Infrastructure FSDS target(s) |
FSDS Contributing Action(s) |
Corresponding departmental action(s) |
Contribution by each departmental action to the FSDS goal and target |
Starting point(s) where available, and performance indicators for departmental actions |
Program(s) in which the departmental actions will occur |
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By the end of 2025-2026, invest $20 billion in funding for green infrastructure initiatives that reduce GHG emissions and improve climate resilience and environmental quality |
Work with partners on green infrastructure |
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By improving the energy efficiency of codes in target sectors, such as buildings, through international regulatory alignments, contribute to greener infrastructure. |
Starting point for commercial/institutional buildings : 2011 model National Energy Code for Buildings (NECB). Net-Zero Energy Ready (NZER) Code is available Targets: 1st tier of NZER codes for new construction will be published in 2020 and the 2nd and 3rd tier by 2022 |
Energy Efficiency |
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By funding technology demonstration projects that reduce cost and address technical hurdles, contribute to the deployment of next-generation clean energy technologies pertaining to infrastructure. |
Ratio of NRCan program investments in clean energy S&T to leveraged funding from partners Target: 1:1 ratio Reductions in GHG emissions from NRCan funded projects of green innovation Target: 11.44 megatons annually (equivalent to 2.86 million passenger cars removed from our roads) by 2030 Advancing Clean Energy Technologies Target: 50% of RD&D projects advance the technology readiness level of emerging technologies, by one level, by 2023. |
Energy Innovation Program Clean Growth in Natural Resource Sectors
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By providing funds to increase the number of recharging and refuelling stations in Canada, contribute to the transition to low-carbon options in the transportation sector through greener infrastructure. |
Number of charging and refuelling stations (by fuel type) planned, under development and completed through the program. Target: GI1: 70 electric vehicle recharging stations, 6 natural gas and 2 hydrogen refuelling stations (by 2018) GI2: 900 electric vehicle charging stations, 15 natural has and 12 hydrogen refueling stations (by 2014) |
Low Carbon Transportation |
Healthy Coasts and Oceans
Coasts and oceans support healthy, resilient and productive ecosystems
Responsible Minister: Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard
Coasts and oceans support healthy, resilient and productive ecosystems
Responsible Minister: Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard
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Healthy Coasts and Oceans FSDS target(s) |
FSDS Contributing Action(s) |
Corresponding departmental action(s) |
Contribution by each departmental action to the FSDS goal and target |
Starting point(s) where available, and performance indicators for departmental actions |
Program(s) in which the departmental actions will occur |
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By 2020, 10% of coastal and marine areas are conserved through networks of protected areas and other effective area-based conservation measures |
Protect and manage marine and coastal areas |
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By producing resource and economic assessments to establish a protected area, contribute to marine and coastal environment conservation. |
Starting point: No assessments have been completed. New assessments are required to inform decisions on marine protected areas Complete resource and economic assessments for areas proposed by Fisheries and Oceans Canada and Parks Canada to help Canada achieve its goal of protecting 5% of marine and coastal areas by 2017 and 10% by 2020. Target: 10 qualitative or quantitative resource and economic assessments over 3 years |
Energy Safety and Security, and Petroleum Resources Geoscience for Sustainable Development of Natural Resources
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By conducting scientific studies to support marine safety as part of the Oceans Protection Plan, contribute to the protection of our marine and coastal environment. |
Starting point is 4 publications per year Number of publications (including maps) released relating to natural hazards in existing or proposed areas of marine infrastructure. Target: 5 publications per year |
Geoscience ato keep Canada Safe |
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By informing emergency response plans and decisions for spill pollution contribute to the protection of our marine and coastal environment. |
Number of scientific publications and products related to measurable advances in spill recovery in the marine environment Target: Beginning in 2019, at least one scientific publication or product per year |
Clean Energy Technology Policy, Research and Engagement |
Pristine Lakes and Rivers
Clean and healthy lakes and rivers support economic prosperity and the well-being of Canadians
Responsible Minister: Minister of Environment and Climate Change
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Pristine Lakes and Rivers FSDS target(s) |
FSDS Contributing Action(s) |
Corresponding departmental action(s) |
Contribution by each departmental action to the FSDS goal and target |
Starting point(s) where available, and performance indicators for departmental actions |
Program(s) in which the departmental actions will occur |
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Work with partners on water quality and ecosystem health Footnote 22 |
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By supporting governments, industry and non-governmental organizations for multiple purposes, including developing forest management practices and policies, that consider impacts on aquatic biodiversity and ecosystem services, contribute to maintain the health of lakes and rivers. |
Starting point: 100 advisory boards and committees Participation of the Canadian Forest Service on advisory boards or committees involving the sharing of knowledge on forest ecosystems to governments, industry and nongovernmental organizations Target: Participation on advisory boards and committees stays within 10% of starting point |
Sustainable Forest Management |
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By developing scientific evidence to understand the threat of climate change on environmental effects of metals and mines, contribute to maintain the health of lakes and rivers. |
Scientific evidence (e.g. publications, reports) used for environmental policy/guidance development. Target: 3 by 2023 |
Green Mining Innovation |
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By collaboratively developing and providing space-based technologies and modelling forecasting methods, contribute to a better understanding of groundwater resources. |
Starting point: 2018-2019
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Core Geospatial Data |
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Better understand lake and river ecosystems Footnote 23 |
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By providing information tools that can contribute to improved sustainable land-use decision-making and groundwater management essential for rural drinking water and ecosystem health. |
Number of acknowledgements from public and/or private sector organizations incorporating NRCan's groundwater geoscience information and tools into their products (e.g. aquifer maps and data, methods and approaches, plans and reports) Target: 5 per year |
Geoscience for Sustainable Development of Natural Resources |
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By providing information and tools that can contribute to improved sustainable land-use decision-making and groundwater management essential for rural drinking water and ecosystem health. |
Number of acknowledgements from public and/or private sector organizations incorporating NRCan's groundwater geoscience information and tools into their products (e.g., aquifer maps and data, methods and approaches, plans and reports) Target: 5 per year |
Geoscience for Sustainable Development of Natural Resources |
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By providing scientific evidence, contribute to improved regulations and decreased environmental effects of metals and mines on lakes and rivers. |
Scientific evidence (e.g. publications, reports) used for policy/guidance development Target: 3 by 2023 |
Green Mining Innovation |
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Use legislation and regulations to protect lake and river ecosystems Footnote 24 |
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By providing scientific evidence, contribute to improved regulations and decreased impacts of metal and mining effluent on the environment, particularly lakes and rivers. |
Scientific evidence (e.g. publications, reports) used for policy/regulation development. CanmetMINING will also provide scientific advice to regulators (Environment and Climate Change Canada) in the development of MMERs Target: 3 by 2023 |
Green Mining Innovation |
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By developing innovative methods to understand metal fate, contribute to better regulation of environmental impacts, particularly for lakes and rivers. |
Scientific evidence (e.g. publications, reports) used for both domestic and international regulation development Target: 3 by 2023 |
Green Mining Innovation |
1NRCan contributes to the FSDS goal through additional departmental sustainable development actions.
Safe and Healthy Communities
All Canadians live in clean, sustainable communities that contribute to their health and well-being
Responsible Minister: Minister of Environment and Climate Change; Minister of Health
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Safe and Healthy Communities FSDS target(s) |
FSDS Contributing Action(s) |
Corresponding departmental action(s) |
Contribution by each departmental action to the FSDS goal and target |
Starting point(s) where available, and performance indicators for departmental actions |
Program(s) in which the departmental actions will occur |
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Prevent environmental emergencies or mitigate their impacts Footnote 25 |
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By providing access to new knowledge on geological hazards to organizations, contribute to the prevention of environmental emergencies or the mitigation of their impacts. |
Number of new knowledge products released to open and accessible databases. Target: 25 annually |
Geoscience to Keep Canada Safe |
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By providing credible information on impacts and consequences of natural emergency events contribute to their prevention or the mitigation of their impacts. |
Starting point: to be set from 2016-2017 results. Percentage of earthquakes of magnitude 4.0 or higher within Canada for which a notification was issued in four minutes or less from the time of sufficient data availability. Target: 75% (within the accuracy of four minutes or less), and 99% within 10 minutes |
Geoscience to Keep Canada Safe |
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By providing up-to-date and comprehensive landmass and water information to support socio-economic and environmental decisions, contribute to the prevention of environmental emergencies or the mitigation of their impacts. |
Target: Successful readiness for 2018 RADARSAT Constellation Mission |
Innovative Geospatial Solutions |
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Provide information to inform action and decision making Footnote 26
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By informing decision makers, and ensuring the public and Indigenous groups are engaged on proposed resource projects, contribute to informed action and decision-making for the reviews of proposed major energy transmission projects. |
Percentage of proposed major energy transmission project reviews that fulfill the Interim Measures during the interim period. Target: 100% |
Major Projects Management Office Initiative |
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By supporting meaningful Indigenous participation in the full lifecycle of energy infrastructure development, including environmental oversight, provision of advice, and monitoring, contribute to informed action and decision-making pertaining to the monitoring of major pipeline projects. |
Starting point: No current active involvement of Indigenous groups in monitoring of major pipeline projects. Proposed indicator: Percentage of participating Indigenous groups who are satisfied with the Committees’ role in monitoring of the projects. Target: To be confirmed in collaboration with Indigenous partners. |
Indigenous Partnerships Office - West |
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By providing scientific expertise, contribute to informed action and decision-making for resource development. |
Number of acknowledgements from public and/or private sector organizations incorporating NRCan's environmental geoscience information into their products. Target: 5 per year |
Groscience for Sustainable Development of Natural Resources |
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By providing scientific expertise during environmental assessment processes, contribute to informed action and decision-making pertaining to proposed projects. |
Percentage of projects where NRCan has provided advice that is ultimately incorporated into an environmental assessment process. Target: 100% |
Internal Services |
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By proving oversight on the use of federal funds, contribute to informed action and decision-making for the remediation of the legacy uranium mining and milling facilities at Gunnar in northern Saskatchewan. |
Payment of $1.13 million was made to Saskatchewan in 2007 for the federal share of Phase 1 of the Project. Percentage of payments made to Saskatchewan in the year they are required for eligible Phase 2 and Phase 3 expenses, as defined in the 2006 Memorandum of Agreement. |
Electricity Resources |
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By supporting the establishment of a sound liability, legislative and regulatory regime, contribute to informed action and decision-making for oil and gas development. |
Number of assessments and/or updates made to energy regulations or legislations Target: 2 per year |
Energy Safety and Security, and Petroleum Resources |
1 NRCan contributes to the FSDS goal through additional departmental sustainable development actions.
Section 4
Integrating sustainable development
Sustainable development is central to the mandate of NRCan and essential to the future of the natural resources sector. NRCan is responsible for ensuring the sustainable development of Canada’s energy resources, minerals and metals, and forests, and for providing the geographical and geological information base that supports decisions about Canada’s land-based and offshore resources and the management of these lands.
NRCan’s decision-making process considers FSDS goals and targets through the Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) process. A SEA for policy, plan or program proposals assesses whether the proposal will result in environmental effects, both positive and negative, and how elements of the proposal contribute to achieving FSDS goals and targets. NRCan’s SEA process includes three levels:
- Preliminary SEA - determines the need for further analysis
- SEA Scan - identifies the importance of the environmental effects likely to arise from a proposal
- Detailed SEA - comprehensive analysis of important environmental effects
A summary of the results of NRCan’s detailed SEAs is made public when an initiative is announced (see NRCan webpage). The purpose of the public statement is to demonstrate that the environmental effects, including the impacts on achieving the FSDS goals and targets, of the approved policy, plan or program have been considered during proposal development and decision-making.
NRCan continues to measure SEA performance through the rate of compliance with the Cabinet Directive on the Environmental Assessment of Policy, plan and program proposals and its guidelines. This includes determining how many approved proposals contributed to the FSDS.
Conclusion
With more than 80 departmental actions, NRCan plays a key role in supporting the FSDS. The DSDS illustrate how the Department contributes to domestic and international initiatives that are important for Canadians, including the Pan-Canadian Framework on Clean Growth and Climate Change, the Canadian Energy Strategy, the North American Energy Strategy, Mission Innovation, the Oceans Protection Plan, the implementation of interim measures to guide decisions on pipelines and the review of the environmental assessment process. To implement concrete actions in support of sustainable development, the Department works closely with partners such as provinces and territories, Indigenous peoples, communities, industry, academia and non-governmental organizations.
NRCan will update its 2017-20 DSDS on an annual basis to reflect new priorities of the Minister and of the Government, as well as new initiatives approved, making this an evergreen Strategy. New performance indicators will also be included as part of the update, reflecting NRCan’s commitment to bringing concrete results for Canadians.
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