Defence Climate and Sustainability Strategy 2024-2025 Results Report
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Introduction to the Defence Climate and Sustainability Strategy 2024-2025 Results Report
The 2022 to 2026 Federal Sustainable Development Strategy (FSDS) presents the Government of Canada’s sustainable development goals and targets, as required by the Federal Sustainable Development Act. This is the first FSDS to be framed using the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of the United Nations 2030 Agenda and provides a balanced view of the environmental, social, and economic dimensions of sustainable development.
In keeping with the purpose of the Act, to make decision-making related to sustainable development more transparent and accountable to Parliament, Defence supports the goals laid out in the FSDS through the activities described in Department of National Defence’s 2023 to 2027 Defence Climate and Sustainability Strategy (DCSS).
As an integrated climate and sustainability strategy, the 2023-27 Defence Climate and Sustainability Strategy (2023-27 DCSS) allows Defence to support the Government of Canada to meet the commitments set out in the 2022-26 FSDS, and implement changes outlined in Canada’s Defence Policies, Strong, Secure, Engaged (SSE) and Our North, Strong and Free (ONSAF). The targets in the 2023-27 DCSS contribute to the Reduced Inequalities, Responsible Consumption and Production, Climate Action, and Life on Land.
Previous years’ reports are posted on the National Defence website.
The Federal Sustainable Development Act also sets out 7 principles that must be considered in the development of the FSDS as well as DCSS. These basic principles have been considered in Defence’s DCSS.
To promote coordinated action on sustainable development across the Government of Canada, Defence’s DCSS contributes to Canada’s progress towards implementing the 2030 Agenda and advancing the SDGs, supported by the Global Indicator Framework (GIF) and Canadian Indicator Framework (CIF) targets and indicators. The Report also now captures progress on SDG initiatives that fall outside the scope of the FSDS.
Context: Greening Government
As the largest user of energy and the single largest emitter of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in the federal government, Defence has a key role to play in helping the Government of Canada (GC) reach its net-zero targets. The Defence team considers energy and environmental factors in all areas of our business and is committed to reducing GHG emissions from real property and conventional light-duty vehicle fleets. The real property portfolio is facing a considerable range of new and evolving pressures. According to the Horizontal Fixed Asset Review (HFAR) led by Treasury Board Secretariat, all custodial departments face similar pressures brought on by an accumulation of deferred maintenance. Improvements are needed to comply with health and safety, workplace risk mitigation and environmental sustainability standards while addressing the demand for infrastructure to support operational requirements in the Arctic, for continental defence, to avoid climate change impacts, and to support the GC’s Indigenous Reconciliation agenda.
The affordability and market availability of technological solutions remain a challenge for reducing GHG emissions from real property and military equipment. The HFAR has identified funding sustainability as an impediment for implementing policy related premiums such as greening. DND, like many other custodial departments, has an older real property portfolio that requires significant investments in order to improve its environmental performance. Without targeted funding, greening is competing for the same funds as program delivery.
Defence has nearly met the 40% reduction in GHG emissions from infrastructure and conventional light-duty fleet by 2025 target. For Defence to reach it’s aspirational goals by 2030 and the end goal of net-zero, Defence is relying on various GC initiatives.
Commitments for Defence
Goal 10: Advance Reconciliation With Indigenous Peoples and Take Action on Inequality
- FSDS Context:
- To support FSDS Goal 10, the Defence Team is committed to renewing and strengthening our relationships with Indigenous peoples across Canada in the communities where we operate. We regularly engage First Nations, Inuit and Métis governing bodies and organizations on planned projects, training exercises and military activities, particularly when they could affect Indigenous rights, lands and water.
- Target theme: Advancing reconciliation with First Nations, Inuit, and the Métis communities
- Target: We have included our departmental actions toward reconciliation in the DND and Canadian Armed Forces Departmental Plan 2024 – 2025.
Goal 12: Reduce Waste and Transition To Zero-emission Vehicles
- FSDS Context:
- Defence is actively aligning its operations with FSDS Target 12, which aims for net-zero emissions in government procurement by 2050 to support the transition to a circular economy. Through initiatives such as reducing waste and diverting recyclables from landfills, adopting a greener light-duty vehicle fleet, and implementing net-zero and green procurement practices, Defence is minimizing its environmental impact. These efforts are further supported by the commitment to updating procurement standards, encouraging suppliers to disclose GHG emissions, and ensuring that all acquisitions contribute to a sustainable, low-carbon future.
- Target theme: Federal Leadership on Responsible Consumption
- Target: By 2030, the Government of Canada will divert from landfill at least 90% by weight of all construction and demolition waste (All Ministers)
| Implementation Strategy | Departmental Action | Performance Indicator Starting Point Target | How the Departmental Action Contributes to the FSDS Goal and Target and, Where Applicable, to Canada’s 2030 Agenda National Strategy and SDGS | Results Achieved |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Maximize diversion of waste from landfill |
Program: Develop waste management policies |
Performance indicator: Percentage completion against milestones Starting point: 0%, New indicator Target: Develop policies and procedures to increase construction, renovation and demolition waste diversion by 2027 |
Relevant targets or ambitions: Developing departmental policies and procedures for waste management will reduce waste and increase waste diversion which contributes to: FSDS Target 12: By 2030, the Government of Canada will divert from landfill at least 75% by weight of non-hazardous operational waste By 2030, the Government of Canada will divert from landfill at least 90% by weight of all construction, renovation, and demolition waste FSDS Milestone: Characterize the waste stream UN SDG 12.5: By 2030, substantially reduce waste generation through prevention, reduction, recycling and reuse |
Indicator result: 10% completed by 2024-25. Notes: Defence Construction Canada (DCC) provided results from Major Capital projects from 2023-2024, which were reviewed to assess effectiveness and to identify deficiencies in current practices. A review of Director of Architectural and Engineering Services (DAES) policies, including the Standards on Sustainability Requirements for Buildings was undertaken. |
- Target: The Government of Canada’s procurement of goods and services will be net-zero emissions by 2050, to aid the transition to a net-zero, circular economy (All Ministers)
| Implementation Strategy | Departmental Action | Performance Indicator Starting Point Target | How the Departmental Action Contributes to the FSDS Goal and Target and, Where Applicable, to Canada’s 2030 Agenda National Strategy and SDGS | Results Achieved |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Transform the federal light-duty fleet |
Program: Procure ZEV and hybrid vehicles for the conventional light-duty fleet |
Performance indicator: Percent available vehicles that meet operational requirements purchased that are ZEVs or hybrid Starting point: ZEV procurement: 29% ZEV and hybrid procurement 86% Target: 100% of National Defence’s conventional light-duty vehicle fleet purchases will be zero-emission vehicles (ZEVs) or hybrid when available, with a ZEV procurement target of 50% by 2027. |
Relevant targets or ambitions: Procuring ZEV and hybrid vehicles will reduce fossil fuel consumption leading to reduced GHG emissions from the conventional light-duty fleet which contributes to: FSDS Target 12: The Government of Canada’s procurement of goods and services will be net-zero emissions by 2050, to aid the transition to a net-zero, circular economy FSDS Milestone: Purchase zero-emission vehicles UN SDG Target 12.7: Promote public procurement practices that are sustainable, in accordance with national policies and priorities |
Indicator result: In 2024-25, 42% of conventional light-duty vehicles purchased were zero emission vehicles (ZEVs) or hybrid (limited by availability). 28% of purchases were ZEVs. Notes: In response to CESD 2023 Report 7 - Departmental Progress in Implementing Sustainable Development Strategies - Zero Emissions Vehicles DND will report annually, the number and percentages of zero-emissions, hybrid electric, and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles within the conventional light-duty fleet beginning in 2024/25. DND will continue reporting annually the procurement totals of zero-emission, hybrid electric, and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles in the conventional light-duty fleet.
|
Strengthen green procurement criteria |
Program: Strengthen Defence green procurement criteria and processes in military fleet procurements |
Performance indicator: Percent complete (tracking against milestones) Starting point: Existing Defence green procurement policies, including the Defence Administrative Order and Directive 3015-series (last updated Feb 2020), internal processes and practices Target: Strengthen National Defence green procurement criteria and processes for military fleet procurement by 2027 to improve fleet energy, emissions and environmental performance |
Relevant targets or ambitions: Strengthening green procurement criteria will reduce environmental impact and ensure best value in government procurement decision-making which contributes to: FSDS Target 12: The Government of Canada’s procurement of goods and services will be net-zero emissions by 2050, to aid the transition to a net-zero, circular economy UN SDG Target 12.7: Promote public procurement practices that are sustainable, in accordance with national policies and priorities |
Indicator result: 20% completed by 2024-25. Notes: Military fleet performance metrics have been developed and processes are being drafted. |
Implementation strategies supporting the goal
This section is for implementation strategies that support the goal “Reduce waste and transition to zero-emission vehicles” but not a specific FSDS target
| Implementation Strategy | Departmental Action | Performance Indicator Starting Point Target | How the Departmental Action Contributes to the FSDS Goal and Target and, Where Applicable, to Canada’s 2030 Agenda National Strategy and SDGS | Results Achieved |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Remediate high-priority contaminated sites |
Program: Continue to reduce liability related to contaminated sites |
Performance indicator: % of reduction in contaminated sites liability based on the closing liability of the previous year Starting point: No baseline, annual calculation Target: Reduce National Defence’s contaminated sites liability by 10% per year to 2027 |
Relevant targets or ambitions: By managing contaminated sites in a manner that is consistent with TB Policy, Defence is reducing risks to human health and the environment which contributes to: FSDS Target 12: Reduce waste and transition to zero-emissions vehicles FSDS Milestone: By March 31, 2025, 60% of Federal Contaminated Sites Action Plan eligible sites are closed or in long-term monitoring UN SDG 12.4: Achieve the environmentally sound management of chemicals and all wastes throughout their life cycle |
Indicator result: 10.9% reduction in contaminated sites liability in 2024-25 based on the closing liability of the previous year. |
Goal 13: Take Action on Climate Change and Its Impacts
- FSDS Context:
- The Department of National Defence (DND) is committed to addressing climate change by enhancing resilience and reducing environmental impacts, aligning with global sustainability goals. By doing so DND aims to build capacity to operate in areas impacted by climate change, while maintaining our military’s operational capabilities and effectiveness, and remaining interoperable with our allies and partners around the world. Efforts include increasing climate awareness through data collection, research, and training, conducting risk assessments on infrastructure and operations, and targeting a 40% reduction in GHG emissions by 2025, with a goal of net-zero emissions by 2050. Additionally, DND is pursuing sustainable infrastructure, equipment, and fuel sources to maintain operational effectiveness while minimizing environmental impact. Collaboration with allies, government departments, Indigenous communities, and academia is central to guiding these climate actions and promoting resilience within defence and security.
- Target theme: Federal Leadership on Greenhouse Gas Emissions Reductions and Climate Resilience
- Target: The Government of Canada will transition to net-zero carbon operations for facilities and conventional fleets by 2050 (All Ministers)
*Data does not include Canadian Coast Guard.
| Implementation Strategy | Departmental Action | Performance Indicator Starting Point Target | How the Departmental Action Contributes to the FSDS Goal and Target and, Where Applicable, to Canada’s 2030 Agenda National Strategy and SDGS | Results Achieved |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Implement the Greening Government Strategy through measures that reduce greenhouse gas emissions, improve climate resilience, and green the government’s overall operations |
Program: Departmental actions are the DCSS targets which support greenhouse gas (GHG) reductions related to real property and conventional light-duty vehicle fleets |
Performance indicator: % greenhouse gas emissions reduction from real property and conventional light-duty vehicle fleet relative to a 2005/2006 baseline Starting point: 744,238 tCO2eq (2005/06 baseline) Target: Reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 40% below 2005 levels by 2025 from real property and the conventional light-duty fleet, and achieve net-zero emissions by 2050 |
Relevant targets or ambitions: GHG reductions from the Defence real property and conventional light-duty vehicle portfolio are critical to achieving the GC’s FSDS goal which contributes to: FSDS Target 13: The Government of Canada will transition to net-zero carbon operations for facilities and conventional fleets by 2050 FSDS Milestone: Reduce greenhouse gas emissions in federal real property and conventional fleet UN SDG Target 13.2: Integrate climate change measures into national policies, strategies and planning |
Indicator result: 39.1% reduction in real property and conventional light-duty vehicle fleet GHGs relative to a 2005/2006 baseline in 2024-25. Notes: DND completed a baseline recalculation as part of the Greening Government Strategy reporting. As of 2024/25 the starting point will be 778,778 tCO2eq (2005/06 baseline). |
Implement the Greening Government Strategy through measures that reduce greenhouse gas emissions, improve climate resilience, and green the government's overall operations |
Program: Develop net-zero emissions plans for bases and wings |
Performance indicator: % of eligible bases and wings with net-zero emissions plans Starting point: 0%, New initiative Target: 50% of bases and wings will have a net-zero emissions plan by 2027 to support infrastructure planning and investment decisions |
Relevant targets or ambitions: Developing detailed and tactical net-zero emissions plans at the base/wing level will provide a path forward to reduce GHG emissions from building operations, which contributes to: FSDS Target 13: The Government of Canada will transition to net-zero carbon operations for facilities and conventional fleets by 2050 FSDS Milestone: Reduce greenhouse gas emissions in federal real property and conventional fleet UN SDG Target 13.2: Integrate climate change measures into national policies, strategies and planning |
Indicator result: 0% of eligible bases and wings have net-zero emissions plans by 2024-25. |
Implement the Greening Government Strategy through measures that reduce GHG emissions, improve climate resilience, and green the government's overall operations |
Program: Continue to work with PSPC and TBS to secure sources of clean electricity |
Performance indicator: % of clean electricity consumption Starting point: 81% of electricity consumed Target: Use 100% clean electricity, where available, by producing or purchasing renewable electricity by 2025 |
Relevant targets or ambitions: Using clean electricity eliminates GHG emissions from the grid in jurisdictions with emitting generation sources, which contributes to: FSDS Target 12: The Government of Canada’s procurement of goods and services will be net-zero emissions by 2050, to aid the transition to a net-zero, circular economy FSDS Milestone: Achieve total clean electricity use in federal real property UN SDG Target 12.7: Promote public procurement practices that are sustainable, in accordance with national policies and priorities |
Indicator result: 81.2% of electricity consumed in 2024-25 was clean electricity. |
Implement the Greening Government Strategy through measures that reduce greenhouse gas emissions, improve climate resilience, and green the government's overall operations |
Program: Continue implementing energy performance contracts at our bases and wings |
Performance indicator: % of eligible bases and wings assessed; % of energy performance contracts moved to the implementation phase Starting point: 75% of eligible bases and wings assessed; 50% in the implementation stage Target: Assess 100% of eligible bases and wings for an EPC and move 75% to the implementation phase by 2027 |
Relevant targets or ambitions: Implementation of energy performance contracts will reduce energy consumption leading to reduced GHG emissions from building operations, which contributes to: FSDS Target 13: The Government of Canada will transition to net-zero carbon operations for facilities and conventional fleets by 2050 FSDS Milestone: Reduce greenhouse gas emissions in federal real property and conventional fleet UN SDG Target 13.2: Integrate climate change measures into national policies, strategies and planning |
Indicator result: 97% of eligible bases have been assessed for EPC implementation by 2024-25. 83% of eligible bases have moved to implementation phase by 2024-25. |
Implement the Greening Government Strategy through measures that reduce greenhouse gas emissions, improve climate resilience, and green the government's overall operations |
Program: Install electric vehicle supply equipment. |
Performance indicator: EVSE’s installed xx/500 Starting point: 120 Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment units Target: 500 electric vehicle chargers will be installed to support National Defence’s conventional light-duty fleet by 2027 |
Relevant targets or ambitions: Installing electric vehicle supply equipment will reduce fossil fuel consumption leading to reduced GHG emissions from the conventional light-duty fleet which contributes to: FSDS Target 12: The Government of Canada’s procurement of goods and services will be net-zero emissions by 2050, to aid the transition to a net-zero, circular economy FSDS Milestone: Purchase zero-emission vehicles UN SDG Target 12.7: Promote public procurement practices that are sustainable, in accordance with national policies and priorities |
Indicator result: 450/500 EVSEs have been installed by 2024-25. Notes: |
Modernize through net-zero carbon buildings |
Program: Build energy efficient residential buildings |
Performance indicator: % of completed new construction buildings meeting Tier 4 of the National Building Code 2020 Starting point: New initiative, 0% Target: All new residential construction will be net-zero emissions, or net-zero-emissions-ready and at least 40% less energy intensive than buildings constructed to current code requirements |
Relevant targets or ambitions: Building net-zero or net-zero carbon ready residential buildings will reduce energy consumption, leading to reduced GHG emissions from building operations which contributes to: FSDS Target 13: The Government of Canada will transition to net-zero carbon operations for facilities and conventional fleets by 2050; FSDS Milestone: Reduce greenhouse gas emissions in federal real property and conventional fleet; UN SDG Target 13.2: Integrate climate change measures into national policies, strategies and planning |
Indicator result: 0% of completed new construction buildings meeting Tier 4 of National Building Code by 2024-25. Notes: The first two residential projects, that are planned to meet the target are currently under construction. |
- Target: The Government of Canada will transition to net-zero carbon national safety and security fleet operations by 2050 (Ministers with national safety and security fleets)
| Implementation Strategy | Departmental Action | Performance Indicator Starting Point Target | How the Departmental Action Contributes to the FSDS Goal and Target and, Where Applicable, to Canada’s 2030 Agenda National Strategy and SDGS | Results Achieved |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Improve environmental performance of national safety and security (NSS) fleets |
Program: Departmental actions are the DCSS targets related to GHG reductions from the NSS fleets |
Performance indicator: % GHG emissions reduction from the NSS fleet relative to a 2005/2006 baseline Starting point: 644,032 tCO2eq (2005/06 baseline) Target: Support the GC commitment to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050 from the national safety and security fleet considering availability, affordability, compatibility and operational feasibility |
Relevant targets or ambitions: Implementing NSS fleet decarbonization plans will reduce fossil fuel consumption leading to reduced GHG emissions from the NSS fleet which contributes to: FSDS Target 13: The Government of Canada will transition to net-zero carbon national safety and security fleet operations by 2050 FSDS Milestone: Develop national safety and security operational fleet decarbonization plans UN SDG Target 13.2: Integrate climate change measures into national policies, strategies and planning |
Indicator result: 18.5% reduction in NSS fleet GHGs relative to a 2005/2006 baseline in 2024-25. Notes: DND completed a baseline recalculation as part of the Greening Government Strategy reporting. As of 2024/25 the starting point will be 644,208 tCO2eq (2005/06 baseline). |
Improve environmental performance of NSS fleets |
Program: Implement NSS fleet decarbonization plans |
Performance indicator: Number of vessels assessed for optimum propulsion efficiency through trial of biofouling reducing hull coatings or in water cleaning Starting point: New initiative, 0 Target: Complete energy use evaluations for 3 types of vessels in the legacy and new RCN fleet to assess the impact of innovative hull coatings and in-water cleaning techniques by 2027 |
Relevant targets or ambitions: Implementing NSS fleet decarbonization plans will reduce fossil fuel consumption leading to reduced GHG emissions from the NSS fleet which contributes to: FSDS Target 13: - The Government of Canada will transition to net-zero carbon NSS fleet operations by 2050 FSDS Milestone: Develop NSS operational fleet decarbonization plans UNSDG Target 13.2: Integrate climate change measures into national policies, strategies and planning |
Indicator result: 0 vessels assessed for optimum propulsion efficiency by 2024-25. Notes: Innovative hull coating on 2 vessels continues to be monitored and innovative in-water hull cleaning procedures were applied to 3 vessels in FY24/25. |
Improve environmental performance of NSS fleets |
Program: Develop a land operational fleet decarbonization plan |
Performance indicator: Percent complete (tracking against milestones) Starting point: 0%, New Initiative Target: Draft the Land Operational Fleet Decarbonization Plan by 2025 and finalize it by 2027 |
Relevant targets or ambitions: Developing a NSS fleet decarbonization plan will chart the course to reduce fossil fuel consumption and GHG emissions from the NSS land fleet which contributes to: FSDS Target 13: The Government of Canada will transition to net-zero carbon NSS fleet operations by 2050 FSDS Milestone: Develop national safety and security operational fleet decarbonization plans UN SDG Target 13.2: Integrate climate change measures into national policies, strategies and planning |
Indicator result: 90% completed by 2024-25. Notes: Draft Operational Land Fleets Decarbonization plan has been completed and is waiting to be presented to the Commander of the Canadian Army for approval. |
Improve environmental performance of NSS fleets |
Program: Implement NSS fleet decarbonization plans |
Performance indicator: Percentage of RCAF fleets that have completed an operational efficiency review Starting point: 0%, New initiative Target: While maintaining operational effectiveness, review operational procedures to identify efficiencies that would reduce GHG emissions, for a select number of aircraft in the RCAF NSS fleets by 2027 |
Relevant targets or ambitions: Implementing NSS fleet decarbonization plans will reduce fossil fuel consumption leading to reduced GHG emissions from the NSS fleet which contributes to: FSDS Target 13: The Government of Canada will transition to net-zero carbon national safety and security fleet operations by 2050 FSDS Milestone: Develop national safety and security operational fleet decarbonization plans UN SDG Target 13.2: Integrate climate change measures into national policies, strategies and planning |
Indicator result: 33% of RCAF fleets have completed an operational efficiency review by 2024-25. Notes: A research study was completed in 2023-24 that assessed carbon emissions associated with transport fleet at 8 Wing Trenton. The study will guide the wider military aviation sector in integrating sustainable practices by optimizing operations in taxiing, de-icing, ground support equipment and mission fuel loads. |
Improve environmental performance of NSS fleets |
Program: Implement NSS fleet decarbonization plans |
Performance indicator: Percentage of RCAF fleets that have completed a simulator and virtual training device utilization study Starting point: 0%, New initiative Target: While maintaining operational effectiveness, review operational procedures to identify efficiencies that would reduce GHG emissions, for a select number of aircraft in the RCAF NSS fleets by 2027 |
Relevant targets or ambitions: Implementing NSS fleet decarbonization plans will reduce fossil fuel consumption leading to reduced GHG emissions from the NSS fleet which contributes to: FSDS Target 13: The Government of Canada will transition to net-zero carbon national safety and security fleet operations by 2050 FSDS Milestone: Develop national safety and security operational fleet decarbonization plans UN SDG Target 13.2: Integrate climate change measures into national policies, strategies and planning |
Indicator result: 33% of RCAF fleets that have completed a simulator and virtual training device utilization study by 2024-25. |
Improve environmental performance of NSS fleets |
Program: Implement NSS fleet decarbonization plans |
Performance indicator: Percentage reduction in annual RCAF GHG emissions resulting from additional investment in simulators and training devices Starting point: 0%, New initiative Target: While maintaining operational effectiveness, review operational procedures to identify efficiencies that would reduce GHG emissions, for a select number of aircraft in the RCAF NSS fleets by 2027 |
Relevant targets or ambitions: Implementing NSS fleet decarbonization plans will reduce fossil fuel consumption leading to reduced GHG emissions from the NSS fleet which contributes to: FSDS Target 13: The Government of Canada will transition to net-zero carbon national safety and security fleet operations by 2050 FSDS Milestone: Develop national safety and security operational fleet decarbonization plans UN SDG Target 13.2: Integrate climate change measures into national policies, strategies and planning |
Indicator result: 0% reduction in annual RCAF GHG emissions resulting from additional investment in simulators and training devices in 2024-25. Notes: There was no additional investments into simulators and training devices in 2024-25. |
Improve environmental performance of NSS fleets |
Program: Implement NSS fleet decarbonization plans
|
Performance indicator: Annual percentage of low-carbon fuels, purchased for Defence through the Low-Carbon Fuel Procurement Program, that replace total fuel volume Starting point: 0%, New initiative Target: Introduce low carbon fuels in the RCN and RCAF NSS fleets where available, affordable, compatible, and operationally feasible by 2027 |
Relevant targets or ambitions: Implementing NSS fleet decarbonization plans will reduce fossil fuel consumption leading to reduced GHG emissions from the NSS fleet which contributes to: FSDS Target 13: The Government of Canada will transition to net-zero carbon national safety and security fleet operations by 2050 FSDS Milestone: Develop national safety and security operational fleet decarbonization plans UN SDG Target 13.2: Integrate climate change measures into national policies, strategies and planning |
Indicator result: Less than 1% of low carbon fuel was purchased for Defence through the Low-Carbon Fuel Procurement Program (LCFPP) in 2024-25. RCAF purchased 21,116 L of LCF during international refueling of planes through the LCFPP. RCN procured 0 L of low carbon renewable F76 fuel in 2024-25 domestically under the LCFPP. International procurements are not specifically tracked for RCN LCF percentage. Notes: An LCF contract was signed for 4 Wing Cold Lake in 2024/25, but fuel deliveries don't start until 2025/26. The RCN was unable to secure a supplier of renewable diesel that met operational needs this fiscal year. |
Improve environmental performance of NSS fleets |
Program: Study climate policies, understand constraints and opportunities, and engage stakeholders, including the defence industry, to develop a net-zero strategy for materiel acquisition and support |
Performance indicator: Number of measures completed per year Starting point: 0%, New initiative Target: Develop a net-zero 2050 strategy for materiel acquisition and support and implement at least two other high priority measures by 2027 |
Relevant targets or ambitions: This action contributes to the achievement of net-zero GHG emissions by the year 2050 which contributes to: FSDS Target 13: The Government of Canada will transition to net-zero carbon national safety and security fleet operations by 2050 FSDS Milestone: Develop national safety and security operational fleet decarbonization plans UN SDG Target 13.2: Integrate climate change measures into national policies, strategies and planning |
Indicator result: 33% complete. Notes: The Department of National Defence Net-Zero 2050 Strategy for Materiel Acquisition and Support was completed in fiscal year 2024-25. Two other measures are being developed. |
- Target: The Government of Canada will transition to climate resilient operations by 2050 (All Ministers)
| Implementation Strategy | Departmental Action | Performance Indicator Starting Point Target | How the Departmental Action Contributes to the FSDS Goal and Target and, Where Applicable, to Canada’s 2030 Agenda National Strategy and SDGS | Results Achieved |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Reduce risks posed by climate change to federal assets, services and operations |
Program: Assess critical assets for resilience to climate change |
Performance indicator: Percentage of critical real property assets assessed for climate change risks Starting point: 0% of critical real property assets have been assessed in detail for climate change risks Target: Complete climate change risk assessments for 20% of critical real property assets by 2027 |
Relevant targets or ambitions: Assessing the climate change risk to critical assets will chart a path for increasing resilience of Defence infrastructure which contributes to: FSDS Target 13: The Government of Canada will transition to climate resilient operations by 2050 FSDS Milestone: Identify and incorporate awareness of climate-change-related risks into federal planning; and develop a zero-carbon, climate-resilient office leasing federal portfolio plan UN SDG Target 13.1: Strengthen resilience and adaptive capacity to climate-related hazards and natural disasters in all countries |
Indicator result: 0% of critical real property assets assessed for climate change risks by 2024-25. Notes: A methodology has been identified which will use the results of the Critical Assets List. |
Reduce risks posed by climate change to federal assets, services and operations |
Program: Study the likely effects of the changing global climate on the readiness of equipment, including vehicles, ships, and aircraft |
Performance indicator: Number of measures complete per year Starting point: 0%, New initiative Target: Develop a climate adaptation framework for military equipment and implement at least two other high-priority adaptation measures by 2027 |
Relevant targets or ambitions: Assessing the climate change risk to military equipment will chart a path for increasing resilience and readiness which contributes to: FSDS Target 13: The Government of Canada will transition to climate resilient operations by 2050 FSDS Milestone: Identify and incorporate awareness of climate-change-related risks into federal planning UN SDG Target 13.1: Strengthen resilience and adaptive capacity to climate-related hazards and natural disasters in all countries |
Indicator result: 0 measures completed by 2024-25. Notes: A Climate Adaptation Framework for Military Equipment was in draft at the end of fiscal year 2024-25. |
Reduce risks posed by climate change to federal assets, services and operations |
Program: Implement NSS fleet decarbonization plans |
Performance indicator: Percent completion of the first phase Starting point: 0%, New initiative Target: Implement smart fuel dispensers as the first phase of an enterprise fuel management system to automatically capture and record fuel consumption from bulk fuel installations on bases by 2027 |
Relevant targets or ambitions: An Enterprise Fuel Management System (EFMS) supports accurate monitoring of fuel consumption and emissions. Its implementation will occur in two phases. The first phase includes updating strategic direction and policy and installing smart pumps. FSDS Target 13: The Government of Canada will transition to net-zero carbon national safety and security fleet operations by 2050 FSDS Milestone: Develop national safety and security operational fleet decarbonization plans UN SDG Target 13.2: Integrate climate change measures into national policies, strategies and planning |
Indicator result: 30% completion of the first phase by 2024-2025. Notes: Since the Statement of Work was initially drafted in 2022-23, the Automatic Identification Technology (AIT) project is exploring advancing the EFMS Smart Pumps dossier as an integral part of the Fuel Monitoring stream. |
Implementation strategies supporting the goal
This section is for implementation strategies that support the goal “Take action on climate change and its impacts” but not a specific FSDS target
| Implementation Strategy | Departmental Action | Performance Indicator Starting Point Target | How the Departmental Action Contributes to the FSDS Goal and Target and, Where Applicable, to Canada’s 2030 Agenda National Strategy and SDGS | Results Achieved |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Implement the Greening Government Strategy through measures that reduce greenhouse gas emissions, improve climate resilience, and green the government's overall operations (Aligned with NATO Climate Change and Security Action Plan) |
Program: Train deployed Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) members on energy efficiency |
Performance indicator: % Military Engineering Officers and Non-Commissioned Officers that received the CJOC Joint Engineer Environmental Brief Starting point: 0%, Will be applied to CAF members to be employed in future rotations. Target: Provide energy efficiency training to deployed CAF members |
Relevant targets or ambitions: UN SDG Target: 13.3: Improve education, awareness-raising and human and institutional capacity on climate change mitigation, adaptation, impact reduction and early warning |
Indicator result: 5% of deployed Military Engineering Officers and Non-Commissioned Officers have completed energy efficiency training. |
Goal 15: Protect and Recover Species, Conserve Canadian Biodiversity
- FSDS Context:
- Protecting biodiversity is vital to safeguarding a clean, safe and sustainable environment. At National Defence we manage large parcels of land rich in biodiversity.
- Canada has set ambitious targets to support FSDS Goal 15 and the goal to conserve 25% of terrestrial, coastal and marine areas by 2025, and 30% by 2030. To help meet these targets, the Defence Team assessed and recognized part of Base Shilo as an Other Effective Conservation Measure (OECM) area. An OECM is a geographically defined area, other than a protected area, that is governed and managed to achieve positive, long-term outcomes to conserve biodiversity. We will continue to assess the compatibility of our other Defence properties for OECM recognition.
- Target theme: Conservation of Land Fresh Water
- Target: Conserve 25% of Canada’s land and inland waters by 2025, working toward 30% by 2030, from 12.5% recognized as conserved as of the end of 2020, in support of the commitment to work to halt and reverse nature loss by 2030 in Canada, and achieve a full recovery for nature by 2050 (Minister of Environment and Climate Change)
| Implementation Strategy | Departmental Action | Performance Indicator Starting Point Target | How the Departmental Action Contributes to the FSDS Goal and Target and, Where Applicable, to Canada’s 2030 Agenda National Strategy and SDGS | Results Achieved |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Conserve natural spaces |
Program: Assess lands for suitability as other effective conservation measure recognition (OECM) |
Performance indicator: % of lands assessed for OECM suitability Starting point: 0%, New initiative Target: National Defence will assess 70% of its custodial lands (representing approximately 450,000 hectares) to determine their suitability for OECM recognition by 2027 |
Relevant targets or ambitions: Assessing lands for suitability as OECMs contributes to: FSDS Target 15: Conserve 25% of Canada’s land and inland waters by 2025, working toward 30% by 2030, from 12.5% recognized as conserved as of the end of 2020, in support of the commitment to work to halt and reverse nature loss by 2030 in Canada, and achieve a full recovery for nature by 2050 FSDS Milestone: Make progress on Canada’s commitment to area-based conservation UN SDG Target 15.1: By 2020, ensure the conservation, restoration and sustainable use of terrestrial and inland freshwater ecosystems and their services |
Indicator result: DND has assessed approximately 51% of its custodial lands to determine their suitability for OECM recognition by 2024-25. Notes: |
Integrating Sustainable Development
The Department of National Defence (DND) will continue to ensure that its decision-making process includes consideration of FSDS goals and targets through its Strategic Environmental and Economic Assessment (SEEA) process. A SEEA for a policy, program or regulatory proposal includes an analysis of the climate, nature, environmental and economic effects of the given proposal.
Public statements on the results of DND’s assessments are issued when an initiative that was the subject of a detailed Strategic Environmental and Economic Assessment is implemented or announced Reports and publications. The purpose of the public statement is to demonstrate that the environmental and economic effects, including contributions to the FSDS goals and targets, of an initiative have been considered during proposal development and decision making.
DND did not have any proposals subject to a detailed SEEA that were announced or implemented in 2024-25.