Archived: Departmental Sustainable Development Strategy 2013-14 report, Environment and Climate Change Canada, chapter 3

Sub-Program 1.1.1 - Biodiversity Policy and Priorities

Program Description

This program enables Environment Canada to play a coordinating role at the national level in engaging stakeholders, provincial governments and other federal government departments in Canada’s implementation of the United Nations Convention on Biological Diversity, and to represent Canada’s domestic interests in international fora. This program uses a mix of science, policy tools, research, and partnerships to develop and implement national policy frameworks and strategies (e.g., Canadian Biodiversity Strategy, Biodiversity Outcomes Framework, Access and Benefit Sharing of Genetic Resources), and to advance Canada’s biodiversity objectives internationally (e.g., Convention on Biological Diversity; Nagoya Protocol on Access and Benefit-Sharing, Liability and Redress under the Biosafety Protocol; Conservation of Arctic Flora and Fauna under the Arctic Council). Program funding includes Canada’s annual contribution to the Secretariat of the Convention on Biological Diversity and support for international working groups.

2013-16 FSDS Implementation Strategies:

4.3.1: Lead Canada’s implementation of the United Nations Convention on Biological Diversity with stakeholders, provincial governments and other federal government departments and represent Canada’s domestic interests in other international fora (e.g., Nagoya Protocol on Access and Benefit-Sharing, Liability and Redress under the Biosafety Protocol; Conservation of Arctic Flora and Fauna under the Arctic Council). (EC)

4.3.2: Serve as Canadian lead and national focal point for the UN-sponsored Intergovernmental Panel on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES). (EC)

4.3.8: Provide scientific expertise, guidance and advice to decision makers, and develop and apply models for social, cultural and economic valuation of ecosystem services to support sustainable development decision making so that ecosystem information and environmental effects of development proposals can be factored into decisions. (EC, IC, StatCan)

4.6.1: Coordinate the federal government's response to the 2004 Invasive Alien Species Strategy for Canada. Implementation is the responsibility of federal science-based and regulatory departments and agencies. (EC)

2013-14 Performance Measurement Framework

2013-14 Performance Analysis:

For performance narrative on the Implementation Strategies, please refer to the corresponding PAA program in the 2013-14 DPR, Performance Analysis and Lessons Learned section.

Implementation Strategies 4.3.1, 4.3.2, 4.3.8 contribute to FSDS Goal 4 - Conserving and Restoring Ecosystems, Wildlife and Habitat, and Protecting Canadians, Target 4.3 - Terrestrial Ecosystems and Habitat Stewardship.

Sub-Sub-Program 1.1.2.1 - Species at Risk Operations

Program Description

This program provides the basic components of Environment Canada’s Species at Risk program. Through its support for the Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada (COSEWIC), an independent body of experts responsible for assessing and identifying species at risk, the program supports decisions by the Minister on whether to add, reclassify or remove species listed under the Species at Risk Act. For those species for which Environment Canada is responsible and that are listed as extirpated, endangered or threatened, recovery strategies and action plans are prepared (including the identification of critical habitat); for species of special concern, management plans are completed. The program supports actions of other federal departments in implementing priority recovery actions on federal lands and for federal species as identified in recovery documents, as well as cooperative arrangements with provinces and territories to implement recovery actions, in accordance with the federal/provincial/territorial Accord for the Protection of Species at Risk and bilateral agreements resulting from the Act. Monitoring and evaluation of populations and threats to listed species is also a key part of this sub-sub-activity, as is general administration of the Act (including an annual report to Parliament, issuance of permits under the Act, provision of support to the National Aboriginal Council on Species at Risk (NACOSAR), and maintenance of a public registry). The program further ensures that Canada’s obligations under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) (i.e., control of the import, export and movement within Canada of endangered species listed under CITES) are met through effective implementation of the Wild Animal and Plant Protection and Regulation of International and Interprovincial Trade Act. Program delivery includes the assessed Contribution to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES).

2013-16 FSDS Implementation Strategies:

4.1.5: Continue to lead and cooperate under the National Recovery Program (RENEW) with provinces and territories, consistent with the Accord for the Protection of Species at Risk. (EC)

4.1.6: Fulfill the federal government's obligations under the Species at Risk Act to evaluate populations and to add, reclassify or remove species listed under the Act and plan for their recovery. This includes the general administration of the Act (including an annual report to Parliament, issuance of permits under the Act, support for the National Aboriginal Council on Species at Risk and the Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada, and maintenance of a public registry). (EC)

4.1.7: Fulfill Canada’s obligations under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora through the Wild Animal and Plant Protection and Regulation of International and Interprovincial Trade Act by helping to ensure that the status of no species is threatened by international trade. (EC)

4.1.8: Enhance the implementation of the Species at Risk Act within DFO and EC to protect and recover species at risk relative to their respective mandates by preparing recovery strategies, and management and action plans as applicable. (DFO, EC)

2013-14 Performance Measurement Framework

2013-14 Performance Analysis:

For performance narrative on the Implementation Strategies, please refer to the corresponding PAA program in the 2013-14 DPR, Performance Analysis and Lessons Learned section.

Implementation Strategies 4.1.5, 4.1.6, 4.1.7, 4.1.8 contribute to FSDS Goal 4 - Conserving and Restoring Ecosystems, Wildlife and Habitat, and Protecting Canadians, Target 4.1 - Species at Risk

Sub-Sub-Program 1.1.2.2 - Aboriginal Fund for Species at Risk

Program Description

This program supports the delivery of Environment Canada’s obligations under the Species at Risk Act. As collaboration with Aboriginal peoples is key to the protection of species at risk, to the Species at Risk Program results and to meeting the Department’s core obligations, this program funds projects led by Aboriginal organizations and Aboriginal communities across Canada. Funded projects build Aboriginal knowledge and expertise in dealing with species at risk, so that Aboriginal peoples can actively participate in the conservation and recovery of species protected under the Act and protect and recover critical habitat or habitat important for species at risk on First Nations reserves or on land and waters traditionally used by Aboriginal peoples.

2013-16 FSDS Implementation Strategies:

4.1.3: Support the development of Aboriginal knowledge and expertise in dealing with species at risk, so that Aboriginal peoples can actively participate in the conservation and recovery of listed species and protect and recover critical habitat or habitat important for species at risk on First Nations reserves or on land and waters traditionally used by Aboriginal peoples. (EC)

2013-14 Performance Measurement Framework

2013-14 Performance Analysis:

For performance narrative on the Implementation Strategies, please refer to the corresponding PAA program in the 2013-14 DPR, Performance Analysis and Lessons Learned section.

Implementation Strategy 4.1.3 contributes to FSDS Goal 4 - Conserving and Restoring Ecosystems, Wildlife and Habitat, and Protecting Canadians, Target 4.1 - Species at Risk

Sub-Sub-Program 1.1.2.3 - Habitat Stewardship Program

Program Description

This program supports the delivery of Environment Canada’s obligations under the Species at Risk Act by engaging Canadians in conservation actions aimed at preserving biodiversity through protecting or conserving habitats for species listed under the Act as “at risk” (endangered, threatened, or of special concern) mainly on non-Aboriginal land. Further, this program promotes the participation of local communities to help with the recovery of species at risk, and it prevents other species from becoming a conservation concern by allocating funds to a variety of partners (non-governmental organizations, community groups, Aboriginal organizations and communities, private corporations, educational institutions, provincial, territorial and municipal governments, and crown corporations) to meet regional and national priorities.

2013-16 FSDS Implementation Strategies:

4.1.4: Engage Canadians in conservation actions to conserve biodiversity through protecting or conserving habitats for species at risk by promoting the participation of local communities to help with the recovery of species at risk, and prevent other species from becoming a conservation concern to meet regional and national priorities. (EC)

2013-14 Performance Measurement Framework

2013-14 Performance Analysis:

For performance narrative on the Implementation Strategies, please refer to the corresponding PAA program in the 2013-14 DPR, Performance Analysis and Lessons Learned section.

Implementation Strategy 4.1.4 contributes to FSDS Goal 4 - Conserving and Restoring Ecosystems, Wildlife and Habitat, and Protecting Canadians, Target 4.1 - Species at Risk

Sub-Program 1.1.3 - Migratory Birds

Program Description

This program protects and conserves populations of migratory bird species. It is responsible for implementing the Migratory Birds Convention signed with the United States in 1916, via the Migratory Birds Convention Act, 1994. Successful implementation includes the following activities: conserving populations, individual birds and their nests and habitats through continued conservation actions, stewardship, policy development and enforcement of the Act and its regulations; protecting important bird habitats; minimizing other stressors that affect population status; and managing emergencies regarding health and safety issues associated with migratory birds. This program is delivered in partnership with other governments and non-governmental organizations. Client groups for the program include the Canadian public; game bird hunters; Aboriginal people (subsistence harvesting); natural resource economic sectors and natural resource users; and other governments (provincial/territorial and foreign).

2013-16 FSDS Implementation Strategies:

4.2.1: Fulfill Canada’s obligations under the Migratory Bird Convention of 1916 between Canada and the U.S. as implemented in Canada under the Migratory Birds Convention Act, 1994. This includes conserving populations, individual birds, their nests, and important bird habitat through continued conservation actions, stewardship, policy development, and enforcement of the Act and its regulations. (EC)

4.2.2: Complete and make publicly available each of the 25 Bird Conservation Region Strategies, and ensure that recommended actions from these strategies are implemented for priority migratory bird species. (EC)

4.3.7: Work with the U.S. and Mexico under the auspices of the Commission for Environmental Cooperation to foster conservation. (EC)

4.5.4: Undertake research and provide advice to decision-makers on marine ecosystems, including impacts of environmental stressors on migratory birds, species at risk and ecological risks associated with specific high-priority ocean activities. (DFO, EC)

2013-14 Performance Measurement Framework

2013-14 Performance Analysis:

For performance narrative on the Implementation Strategies, please refer to the corresponding PAA program in the 2013-14 DPR, Performance Analysis and Lessons Learned section.

Implementation Strategies 4.2.1, 4.2.2 contribute to FSDS Goal 4 - Conserving and Restoring Ecosystems, Wildlife and Habitat, and Protecting Canadians, Target 4.2 - Migratory Birds

Sub-Sub-Program 1.1.4.1 - Habitat Conservation Partnerships

Program Description

This program supports the delivery of Environment Canada’s obligations under the Species at Risk Act, the Migratory Birds Convention Act, 1994 and the Canada Wildlife Act by funding projects to secure, protect, improve and/or restore important and ecologically sensitive habitat to enhance the survival of wildlife, in particular species at risk and migratory birds. The program provides mechanisms that engage with organizations and individuals on the ground including landowners, environmental non-governmental organizations and others, including creating incentives for voluntary action on the part of other levels of government and non-government, Aboriginal groups and private sector partners through the delivery of tax incentives such as the Ecological Gifts Program. The program also includes Environment Canada’s participation in the North American Waterfowl Management Plan, a Canada-United States-Mexico partnership of federal, provincial/state and non-governmental organizations that aims to conserve wetland in North America. Program delivery includes the assessed contribution to the Convention on Wetlands of International Importance (Ramsar convention).

2013-16 FSDS Implementation Strategies:

4.3.4: Provide for the protection of priority habitats required for the conservation of migratory birds and species at risk, as well as unique and rare habitats, by managing a network of National Wildlife Areas, Migratory Bird Sanctuaries and Marine Wildlife Areas that is planned to adapt to ecological change; administering the Ecological Gifts Program; contributing to the development and implementation of the North American Waterfowl Management Plan; administering permits; and entering partnership arrangements (including collaboration with Aboriginal groups, other wildlife management agencies, other natural resource agencies, non-governmental organizations, private property owners, and other jurisdictions). (EC)

4.3.12: Participate in implementing the North American Waterfowl Management Plan which aims to conserve wetlands in order to benefit waterfowl in North America. Canada has committed to promoting the wise use of wetlands and maintaining the ecological character of designated Wetlands of International Importance under the Convention on Wetlands of International Importance (Ramsar Convention). (EC)

2013-14 Performance Measurement Framework

2013-14 Performance Analysis:

For performance narrative on the Implementation Strategies, please refer to the corresponding PAA program in the 2013-14 DPR, Performance Analysis and Lessons Learned section.

Implementation Strategies 4.3.4, 4.3.7, 4.3.12 contribute to FSDS Goal 4 - Conserving and Restoring Ecosystems, Wildlife and Habitat, and Protecting Canadians, Target 4.3 - Terrestrial Ecosystems and Habitat Stewardship

Implementation Strategy 4.6.1 contributes to FSDS Goal 4 - Conserving and Restoring Ecosystems, Wildlife and Habitat, and Protecting Canadians, Target 4.6 - Invasive Alien Species

Sub-Sub-Program 1.1.4.2 - Protected Areas

Program Description

This program carries out the strategic planning, establishment, coordination and management of Protected Areas for migratory birds, species at risk, wildlife of national interest, and their associated habitats, and coordinates national and international activities related to the protection of priority areas. Program success involves the support of the public and close collaboration with Aboriginal groups, other wildlife management agencies, other natural resource agencies, non-governmental organizations, and private property owners. The program operates under the authority of the Canada Wildlife Act and the Migratory Birds Convention Act, 1994. The program is part of a broader network of protected areas that includes sites of other federal departments (notably Parks Canada and Fisheries and Oceans Canada), provincial and territorial agencies and conservation properties that are owned and/or managed by non-governmental organizations.

2013-16 FSDS Implementation Strategies:

4.3.5: Implement the Inuit Impact and Benefits Agreement, and continue to work with the Government of the Northwest Territories (NWT) on the NWT Protected Areas Strategy, with the objective of establishing additional Protected Areas in NWT and Nunavut. (EC)

4.3.11: Develop an inventory of protected spaces that includes private conservation areas. (EC)

2013-14 Performance Measurement Framework

2013-14 Performance Analysis:

For performance narrative on the Implementation Strategies, please refer to the corresponding PAA program in the 2013-14 DPR, Performance Analysis and Lessons Learned section.

Implementation Strategies 4.3.5, 4.3.11 contribute to FSDS Goal 4 - Conserving and Restoring Ecosystems, Wildlife and Habitat, and Protecting Canadians, Target 4.3 - Terrestrial Ecosystems and Habitat Stewardship

Implementation Strategy 4.5.4 contributes to FSDS Goal 4 - Conserving and Restoring Ecosystems, Wildlife and Habitat, and Protecting Canadians, Target 4.5 - Marine Ecosystems

Sub-Program 1.2.1 - Water Quality and Aquatic Ecosystems Health

Program Description

This program provides Canadians, policy- and decision-makers, water resource managers, sectors, federal/provincial/territorial governments, industry, and municipalities with knowledge and understanding of human activities’ impacts on, and risks posed to, water quality and the health of aquatic ecosystems. It supports the water-quality-related obligations under the Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999, the Canada Water Act, the Fisheries Act, the International Boundary Waters Treaty Act, and federal/provincial/territorial and Canada-United States water quality agreements. Through this program, Environment Canada leads in the provision of water quality monitoring and reporting through annual reports on the Freshwater Quality Index and the status and trends reports on aquatic ecosystem health. The program produces and disseminates scientific knowledge and information that identifies human activities that are having significant impacts on ecosystems (aquatic and others), vulnerable and priority areas, and opportunities to minimize these impacts. The program includes Environment Canada responsibilities under the Science and Governance components of the Lake Winnipeg Basin Initiative (Action Plan for Clean Water) as well as responsibilities to monitor Canadian shellfish areas in accordance with the monitoring protocol under the Canadian Shellfish Sanitation Program, which is administered jointly through a Memorandum of Understanding between the Canadian Food Inspection Agency, Environment Canada and Fisheries and Oceans Canada.

2013-16 FSDS Implementation Strategies:

3.3.5: Coordinate with the U.S. scientific research and monitoring activities in the Great Lakes in order to fulfill the obligations of the Canada-US Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement. (EC)

3.10.4: Working with provincial colleagues through the Canadian Council of Ministers of the Environment, produce a guidance manual for developing nutrient objectives for rivers, and identify additional opportunities for research on mitigating excess nutrients in Canadian waters. (EC)

3.12.3: Collaborate with the Government of Alberta and stakeholders to implement, an industry-funded integrated approach to monitoring, evaluation, and reporting on the significance of environmental contaminant pathways in air and water, biological effects, and impacts of habitat disturbance as described in the Joint Canada-Alberta Implementation Plan for Oil Sands Monitoring. (EC)

2013-14 Performance Measurement Framework

2013-14 Performance Analysis:

For performance narrative on the Implementation Strategies, please refer to the corresponding PAA program in the 2013-14 DPR, Performance Analysis and Lessons Learned section.

Implementation Strategy 3.3.5 contributes to FSDS Goal 3 - Water Quality and Water Quantity, Target 3.3 - Great Lakes - Canadian Areas of Concern

Implementation Strategy 3.7.3 contributes to FSDS Goal 3 - Water Quality and Water Quantity, Target 3.7 - Lake Winnipeg Basin

Implementation Strategy 3.10.4 contributes to FSDS Goal 3 - Water Quality and Water Quantity, Target 3.10 - Agri-Environmental Performance Metrics

Implementation Strategy 3.12.3 contributes to FSDS Goal 3 - Water Quality and Water Quantity, Target 3.12 - Water Resource Management

Sub-Program 1.2.2 - Water Resource Management and Use

Program Description

The Water Resource Management and Use program aims to promote the conservation and management of Canada’s water resources. It promotes and enables the application of science-based information to inform decision making in an integrated and coherent manner consistent with the Canada Water Act. The program serves to coordinate across the spectrum of water quality and water quantity science and monitoring and ensure that such knowledge is strategically positioned to inform decisions, policy development, and management approaches. The program promotes cooperative and integrated approaches to sustainable water management through partnerships with other governments and with water managers. The program emphasizes the key federal role on transboundary water issues and governance and engagement in domestic and international water boards is a priority mechanism, including those constituted under the Canada Water Act and the International Joint Commission.

2013-16 FSDS Implementation Strategies:

3.12.7: Continue to engage in domestic water boards (e.g. Prairie Provinces Water Board and Mackenzie River Basin Board) and international water boards (e.g. International Joint Commission) to coordinate on trans-boundary water issues with other Canadian federal, provincial, and territorial agencies and relevant U.S. counterparts (EC).

3.12.8: Continue to work through the Canadian Council of Ministers of the Environment towards a national approach to assess groundwater sustainability in order to support integrated water management decisions at the federal, provincial, and territorial levels. (EC)

3.12.9: Conduct research and monitoring to advance knowledge on the state of Canada’s watersheds. (EC)

2013-14 Performance Measurement Framework

2013-14 Performance Analysis:

For performance narrative on the Implementation Strategies, please refer to the corresponding PAA program in the 2013-14 DPR, Performance Analysis and Lessons Learned section.

Implementation Strategies 3.12.7, 3.12.8, 3.12.9 contribute to FSDS Goal 3 - Water Quality and Water Quantity, Target 3.12 - Water Resource Management

Sub-Program 1.2.3 - Hydrological Service and Water Survey

Program Description

Information on the water cycle within Canada is critical to health and safety (e.g., flood forecasting and prevention) and to economic efficiency (e.g., agriculture, hydroelectricity, and international shipping). This program provides hydrological data, information and knowledge that Canadian jurisdictions need to make water management decisions. This program supports the goals and mandates of all levels of government involved in managing water supplies. The hydrological data, meteorological information and ancillary information provided by EC are used by international, federal, provincial, territorial and municipal agencies to regulate and respond to changing water levels and flows within Canada and in bodies of water that cross international boundaries. Under the Canada Water Act, monitoring activities of this program are carried out through cost-shared bilateral agreements between Environment Canada and each of the provinces and territories (Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Canada represents Nunavut and the Northwest Territories). These agreements create the national framework within which Environment Canada collects, interprets and provides level and flow information and supports scientific investigations. Delivery of the program involves staff in Environment Canada headquarters and each Environment Canada region. Program delivery may include Contributions in support of Water Resources.

2013-16 FSDS Implementation Strategies:

3.12.4: Collect and disseminate hydrological data and knowledge through the Water Survey of Canada, in order to help Canadian jurisdictions make water management decisions that ensure health and safety and support economic efficiency. (EC)

2013-14 Performance Measurement Framework

2013-14 Performance Analysis:

For performance narrative on the Implementation Strategies, please refer to the corresponding PAA program in the 2013-14 DPR, Performance Analysis and Lessons Learned section.

Implementation Strategy 3.12.4 contributes to FSDS Goal 3 - Water Quality and Water Quantity, Target 3.12 - Water Resource Management

Sub-Program 1.3.2 - Ecosystem Assessment and Approaches

Program Description

This program contributes to a consolidated activity that ensures the assessment, evaluation and management of Canada’s ecosystems in a sustainable manner. These diverse components, individually or combined, contribute to EC’s mandate fullfilment by providing scientific expertise, guidance and advice to decision makers across different levels of government, environmental and non-governmental organizations, the industrial sector, the research community and the general public so that ecosystem information and environmental effects of development proposals can be factored into their decisions. To this end, the activity conducts research, monitoring assessment and reporting on the health of ecosystems and biodiversity. EC participates in federal environmental assessments, including those in the North and also contributes scientific expertise in provincial environmental assessments. EC’s involvement in strategic regional and project assessment provides a platform for the Department to contribute to the health of ecosystems in Canada.

2013-16 FSDS Implementation Strategies:

4.3.10: Conduct biodiversity contaminants monitoring as part of the Joint Oil Sands Monitoring Implementation Plan in order to provide an improved understanding of the long-term cumulative effects of oil sands development. (EC)

2013-14 Performance Measurement Framework

2013-14 Performance Analysis:

For performance narrative on the Implementation Strategies, please refer to the corresponding PAA program in the 2013-14 DPR, Performance Analysis and Lessons Learned section.

Implementation Strategy 4.3.10 contributes to FSDS Goal 4 - Conserving and Restoring Ecosystems, Wildlife and Habitat, and Protecting Canadians, Target 4.3 - Terrestrial Ecosystems and Habitat Stewardship.

Sub-Sub-Program 1.3.4.1 - Great Lakes

Program Description

This program provides leadership, oversight, coordination and governance mechanisms for the Great Lakes Basin Ecosystem Initiative. This includes policy development, issues management, planning, and implementation of agreements and initiatives such as the Canada-United States Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement, the Canada-Ontario Agreement (Great Lakes Basin Ecosystem), the Great Lakes Action Plan, implementation of sediment remediation under the Action Plan for Clean Water, and State-of-the-Great Lakes Reports. The program also supports Environment Canada’s efforts on International Joint Commission-related Great Lakes water quality issues. In collaboration with other federal departments and agencies, provincial governments and agencies, conservation authorities, municipalities, not-for-profit non-governmental environmental groups/organizations and stewardship networks, this program implements Remedial Action Plans and Lakewide Management Plans and ensures the environmental quality of the Great Lakes Ecosystem is maintained and improved.

2013-16 FSDS Implementation Strategies:

3.3.1: Provide leadership, oversight, coordination and governance for the Great Lakes by managing, delivering, and reporting on the Canada-U.S. Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement (GLWQA), the Great Lakes Nutrient Initiative, and the Canada-Ontario Agreement. (DFO, EC)

The plans and strategies on evolving historic issues and issues of emerging concern include:

• Nutrients - Fulfilling obligations to address phosphorus loads to the Great Lakes.
• Habitat and species - Fulfilling obligations to address habitat and species protection.
• Chemicals of mutual concern - Fulfilling obligations to reduce or eliminate the use and release of chemicals of concern (mutually agreed to for action by Canada and the U.S.) using approaches that are accountable, adaptive and science-based.
• Climate change impacts: Fulfilling obligations to identify and quantify climate change impacts on water quality.

3.3.2: Partner with Canadian and U.S. federal, state, tribal, provincial and municipal governments, First Nations, Metis, watershed management agencies, and other local public agencies to implement Remedial Action Plans and Lakewide Action and Management Plans in order to improve environmental quality and achieve the vision of a healthy, prosperous and Great Lakes region. This includes funding from the Great Lakes Action Plan to coordinate Remedial Action Plans, providing technical and financial support through the Great Lakes Sustainability Fund to clean up and restore the Areas of Concern, and remediating contaminated sediment in Areas of Concern with funding from the Action Plan for Clean Water. (EC)

3.3.4: Release reports regularly on State of the Great Lakes environmental indicators, Progress Report of the Parties (Canada-U.S.), updates for Lakewide Action and Management Plans and a report on groundwater science. (EC)

3.3.6: Deliver and report on Great Lakes results federally-provincially, between the Government of Canada and the Province of Ontario through the Canada-Ontario Agreement and binationally between Canada and the U.S. through the Canada-US Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement. (EC)

2013-14 Performance Measurement Framework

2013-14 Performance Analysis:

For performance narrative on the Implementation Strategies, please refer to the corresponding PAA program in the 2013-14 DPR, Performance Analysis and Lessons Learned section.

Implementation Strategies 3.3.1, 3.3.2, 3.3.4, 3.3.6 contribute to FSDS Goal 3 - Water Quality and Water Quantity, Target 3.3 - Great Lakes - Canadian Areas of Concern, and Target 3.4 - Great Lakes - Management of Nutrients

Sub-Sub-Program 1.3.4.2 - St. Lawrence

Program Description

This program, implemented through a Canada-Quebec Agreement, commits the parties (both federal and provincial departments) to the conservation, protection and restoration of the St. Lawrence ecosystem while allowing the alignment of science for decision making and on-the-ground environmental actions. This program provides leadership, oversight and coordination to the overall governance of the St. Lawrence Action Plan. This includes support for the Agreement Management Committee, issues management, planning and coordination, evaluation and reporting, and leadership in the development of new agreements. The program also oversees the implementation of the Area of Prime Concern Program and the Community Interactions Program. Activities also include establishing management processes to coordinate and manage the St. Lawrence program within Environment Canada.

2013-16 FSDS Implementation Strategies:

3.5.1: Provide leadership, oversight, and coordination to the overall governance of the St. Lawrence Action Plan and report results achieved between the Government of Canada and the Government of Quebec. (EC)

3.5.2: Establish cooperative partnerships between the federal and provincial governments to address biodiversity conservation, water quality improvement and sustainability of beneficial uses, and support stakeholder participation in collaboration processes and communities in improving environmental quality through Grants and Contribution Agreements. (EC)

3.5.3: Conduct and coordinate prediction and monitoring activities in the St. Lawrence with other federal and provincial departments and release reports regularly on the State of the St. Lawrence and factsheets on 21 environmental indicators. (EC)

2013-14 Performance Measurement Framework

2013-14 Performance Analysis:

For performance narrative on the Implementation Strategies, please refer to the corresponding PAA program in the 2013-14 DPR, Performance Analysis and Lessons Learned section.

Implementation Strategies 3.5.1, 3.5.2, 3.5.3 contribute to FSDS Goal 3 - Water Quality and Water Quantity, Target 3.5 - St. Lawrence River

Sub-Sub-Program 1.3.4.3 - Lake Simcoe

Program Description

The Government of Canada has committed funding over five years establish a Lake Simcoe Clean-Up Fund to provide financial and technical support to implement high-impact, priority projects aimed at reducing phosphorus inputs, rehabilitating habitats to achieve nutrient reductions, restoring the cold-water fishery in Lake Simcoe, and enhancing research and monitoring capacity deemed essential for the restoration of Lake Simcoe and its watershed. The Fund is administered by Environment Canada in consultation with Fisheries and Oceans Canada, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, the Province of Ontario, the Lake Simcoe Conservation Authority and other key stakeholders. The initiative is expected to improve water quality for recreational use, substantially reduce phosphorus loads from urban and rural sources, and advance the restoration of a sustainable cold-water fishery and the ecological integrity of Lake Simcoe. The Fund is a key component of the Government’s Action Plan for Clean Water.

2013-16 FSDS Implementation Strategies:

3.6.1: Provide financial and technical support through the Lake Simcoe/South-eastern Georgian Bay Clean-Up Fund to implement priority projects aimed at reducing phosphorus inputs, conserving aquatic habitat and species, and enhancing research and monitoring capacity essential to the restoration of the Lake Simcoe and South-eastern Georgian Bay Basin watersheds. (EC)

2013-14 Performance Measurement Framework

2013-14 Performance Analysis:

For performance narrative on the Implementation Strategies, please refer to the corresponding PAA program in the 2013-14 DPR, Performance Analysis and Lessons Learned section.

Implementation Strategy 3.6.1 contributes to FSDS Goal 3 - Water Quality and Water Quantity, Target 3.6 - Lake Simcoe and South-eastern Georgian Bay

Sub-Sub-Program 1.3.4.4 - Lake Winnipeg

Program Description

The Lake Winnipeg Basin Initiative focuses on three key areas: science (research, information and monitoring); facilitating watershed governance across the basin; and Environment Canada’s establishment and administration of a Lake Winnipeg Basin Stewardship Fund to help improve the water quality of Lake Winnipeg by identifying, assessing and addressing key water quality issues within the Lake and its contributing watershed. National science and governance initiatives aligned to the Water Quality and Aquatic Ecosystems Health program (1.2.1) also support the Lake Winnipeg Basin Initiative.

2013-16 FSDS Implementation Strategies:

3.7.1: The Lake Winnipeg Basin Management Office will coordinate and manage the activities of the Lake Winnipeg Basin Initiative, work with existing water governance bodies, explore options and opportunities to cooperatively develop and support the implementation of a basin-wide nutrient strategy, and provide a forum for communication. This includes working with the Province of Manitoba to continue implementation of the Canada-Manitoba Memorandum of Understanding Respecting Lake Winnipeg, which provides for a long-term collaborative and coordinated approach between the two governments to ensure the sustainability and health of the Lake Winnipeg Basin. (EC)

3.7.2: Provide financial and technical support, through the Lake Winnipeg Basin Stewardship Fund, to projects having concrete, demonstrable results to reduce pollutants and, in particular, nutrient loads, throughout the Lake Winnipeg Basin. (EC)

3.7.3: Conduct science and monitoring activities required to understand the relationship between ecology and nutrient cycling and the sources and transport mechanisms for nutrients within Lake Winnipeg and its sub watersheds. This information helps inform the development of nutrient objectives and performance indicators for Lake Winnipeg. (EC)

2013-14 Performance Measurement Framework

2013-14 Performance Analysis:

For performance narrative on the Implementation Strategies, please refer to the corresponding PAA program in the 2013-14 DPR, Performance Analysis and Lessons Learned section.

Implementation Strategies 3.7.1, 3.7.2 contribute to FSDS Goal 3 - Water Quality and Water Quantity, Target 3.7 - Lake Winnipeg Basin

Sub-Sub-Program 1.3.4.5 - Community Ecosystem Partnerships

Program Description

This program maintains and restores the beneficial uses and environmental quality of targeted ecosystems of federal interest (such as northern Canada, Georgia and Okanagan Basins, and coastal ecosystems in Atlantic Canada). Through increased coordination and improved collaboration these initiatives use strategic partnerships, research, science and funding programs to improve knowledge bases, increase stakeholder capacity and involvement, improve decision-making and increase use of best practices in order to address complex environmental issues. The program provides the coordination and oversight functions for targeted ecosystem initiatives that encompass multiple levels of government (federal, provincial/territorial, municipal, Aboriginal). Funding includes support for ecosystem and community projects and partnerships. This program targets stakeholders, including several levels of government, communities, businesses, industry, Aboriginal communities, non-governmental organizations and academia.

2013-16 FSDS Implementation Strategies:

3.12.1: Deliver, with the Atlantic provinces, collaborative environmental initiatives that advance long-term coordinated approaches to water management that ensure the sustainability and health of water resources in Atlantic Canada. (EC)

3.12.10: Continue to cooperate on ecosystem initiatives such as lake evaporation in the Okanagan ecosystem and sustainability indicators that incorporate First Nations traditional knowledge in the Salish Sea ecosystem. (EC)

2013-14 Performance Measurement Framework

2013-14 Performance Analysis:

For performance narrative on the Implementation Strategies, please refer to the corresponding PAA program in the 2013-14 DPR, Performance Analysis and Lessons Learned section.

Implementation Strategies 3.12.1, 3.12.10 contribute to FSDS Goal 3 - Water Quality and Water Quantity, Target 3.12 - Water Resource Management.

Program 1.4 - Compliance Promotion and Enforcement - Wildlife

Program Description

This program serves to conserve and protect the natural environment through compliance promotion and enforcement, supported by sound scientific analysis and advice, of the following wildlife-related legislation administered by Environment Canada: the Species at Risk Act, the Migratory Birds Convention Act, 1994, the Wild Animal and Plant Protection and Regulation of International and Interprovincial Trade Act, and the Canada Wildlife Act. Measures to promote compliance include communication and publication of information, education, and consultation with parties affected by these statutes. The program maintains a contingent of enforcement officers, whose actions focus on ensuring and verifying conformity with laws, regulations and permits pertaining to wildlife, through several activities--which include gathering intelligence, conducting inspections and pursuing investigations to take appropriate enforcement measures against alleged offenders. These actions ensure that damages and threats to biodiversity are reduced for the benefit of Canadians and the international community.

2013-16 FSDS Implementation Strategies:

4.1.2: Work with the U.S. and Mexico under the auspices of the Commission for Environmental Cooperation to strengthen wildlife enforcement. (EC) 

4.3.3: Enhance and promote enforcement in Environment Canada Protected Areas (Migratory Bird Sanctuaries and National Wildlife Areas) through a contingent of enforcement officers and take appropriate enforcement measures against alleged offenders. (EC)

2013-14 Performance Measurement Framework

2013-14 Performance Analysis:

For performance narrative on the Implementation Strategies, please refer to the corresponding PAA program in the 2013-14 DPR, Performance Analysis and Lessons Learned section.

Implementation Strategy 4.1.2 contributes to FSDS Goal 4 - Conserving and Restoring Ecosystems, Wildlife and Habitat, and Protecting Canadians, Target 4.1 - Species at Risk

Implementation Strategy 4.3.3 contributes to FSDS Goal 4 - Conserving and Restoring Ecosystems, Wildlife and Habitat, and Protecting Canadians, Target 4.3 - Terrestrial Ecosystems and Habitat Stewardship.

Sub-Program 2.1.2 - Health-Related Meteorological Information

Program Description

This program provides forecasts, tools and information on atmospheric conditions that affect health, such as UV (ultraviolet) radiation, extreme temperatures and air quality. The program’s services assist Canadians in making decisions about their short- and long-term health and enable health agencies to help vulnerable populations respond to changing atmospheric conditions. It supports the mandates of Environment Canada, Health Canada and many public and non-governmental health agencies. This program is delivered across Canada through collaborations involving data and information distribution. Collaborators include the media, public health agencies at all levels of government, provincial environment agencies and non-governmental agencies. This program also includes conducting systematic observations and monitoring of ozone in the atmosphere and hosting the World Ozone and UV Data Centre, operated on behalf of the World Meteorological Organization and used by over 75 government agencies around the world. Program delivery may include Grants and Contributions in support of Weather and Environmental Services for Canadians.

2013-16 FSDS Implementation Strategies:

2.1.11: Communicate outdoor air pollution health risks to Canadians through the Air Quality Health Index (AQHI), which provides current and forecast air-quality information and advice on health risks in order to assist Canadians in making decisions on how to reduce their level of exposure. Continue development of the AQHI and continue implementation in all provinces and major communities in the North to achieve access for 80% of the Canadian population. (EC, HC)

2013-14 Performance Measurement Framework

2013-14 Performance Analysis:

For performance narrative on the Implementation Strategies, please refer to the corresponding PAA program in the 2013-14 DPR, Performance Analysis and Lessons Learned section.

Implementation Strategy 2.1.11 contributes to FSDS Goal 2 - Air Pollution, Target 2.1 - Outdoor Air Pollutants

Sub-Program 2.1.3 - Climate Information, Predictions and Tools

Program Description

This program generates new knowledge and information on past and present states of the climate system, changing composition of the atmosphere and how the climate system functions, future state of the climate, and impacts of atmospheric change. This includes global and regional climate model and scenarios development, detection of human influence on climate change in Canada, including extremes, understanding the North and Canadian cryosphere, and tracking atmospheric levels of greenhouse gases and aerosols across Canada, including remote locations, and understanding the impacts of climate change on economic sectors and ecosystems. The results and knowledge produced from these activities provide the scientific basis for policy development, mitigation and adaptation planning and decision-making, and products, services and tools to Canadians. In particular, climate services inform and assist users in adapting to both present day climate variability and medium to long term changes in climate. This program is delivered nationally through data, science and information sharing and distribution. Key partners include all levels of government, academia, industry, consortiums, standards councils, and the national and international scientific community, including organizations such as the World Meteorological Organization and its Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, the Canadian Meteorological and Oceanographic Society, and various national climate agencies. Legal and statutory responsibilities for this program include the Department of the Environment Act, Canadian Environmental Protection Act (CEPA, 1999), Emergency Management Act (2007), and the National Research Council Act (Canadian Commission on Building and Fire Codes). Program delivery may include Grants and Contributions in support of Weather and Environmental Services for Canadians.

2013-16 FSDS Implementation Strategies:

1.2.12:  Support adaptation decision making by providing the foundational science information to understand climate system behaviour, the human influence on climate, and future climate on various spatial and temporal scales. (EC)

2013-14 Performance Measurement Framework

2013-14 Performance Analysis:

For performance narrative on the Implementation Strategies, please refer to the corresponding PAA program in the 2013-14 DPR, Performance Analysis and Lessons Learned section.

Implementation Strategy 1.2.12 contributes to FSDS Goal 1 - Climate Change, Target 1.2 - Climate Change Adaptation.

Sub-Program 3.1.1 - Substances Management

Program Description

This program is a jointly implemented by Health Canada and Environment Canada and is aimed at reducing threats from substances released to the environment and harmful to human health or the environment. The program intends to achieve efficient and effective management of the risks posed by substances through setting priorities and taking effective regulatory actions (or other measures where appropriate) based on science-based risk assessment. Adaptive substance management and improvements are pursued through new findings in both research and monitoring, as well as international collaboration. Transparency with stakeholders is maintained by providing the opportunity to offer advice and input on the implementation of the program through both regulatory and institutional/issue specific consultation processes. Risk management actions are taken by Environment Canada under the authority of the Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999, while Health Canada may take action under the Food and Drugs Act, the Pest Control Products Act and the Hazardous Products Act. International obligations include the Basel Convention, the Rotterdam Convention, the Stockholm Convention, the Convention on Long-Range Transboundary Air Pollution and the Montreal Protocol. Program delivery includes the assessed contribution to the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD). This program also addresses the risks posed by end of life substances of concern by developing, implementing and administering regulations and other control instruments. The regulations and control instruments are developed under the Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999 in order to address international and interprovincial movement of waste and hazardous recyclable material, reduce the releases of PCBs in the environment, and to reduce the risk of spills and leaks from of petroleum products and allied petroleum products from storage tank systems.

2013-16 FSDS Implementation Strategies:

4.8.3: Percentage of stated objectives to be achieved in international negotiations which were met or mostly met under the Basel, Rotterdam, Stockholm and Vienna Conventions. (EC)

4.8.5: Assess 100% of 1500 targeted existing commercial substances as identified under the Chemicals Management Plan for risks to human health and/or the environment by 2016. (EC, HC) 

4.8.6: Track releases of harmful substances under the National Pollutant Release Inventory in accordance with the Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999. (EC)

4.8.8: Address 100% of new substances, for which Environment Canada has been notified by industry of their intended manufacture or import, to determine if they may pose risks to human health and/or the environment within the timelines in the regulation or established services standards. (EC, HC)

4.8.9: Ensure at least one risk management measure is in place for 100% of substances deemed to be harmful to human health and/or the environment. (EC, HC)

2013-14 Performance Measurement Framework

2013-14 Performance Analysis:

For performance narrative on the Implementation Strategies, please refer to the corresponding PAA program in the 2013-14 DPR, Performance Analysis and Lessons Learned section.

Implementation Strategies 4.8.3, 4.8.5, 4.8.6, 4.8.8, and 4.8 9 contribute to FSDS Goal 4 - Conserving and Restoring Ecosystems, Wildlife and Habitat, and Protecting Canadians, Target 4.8 - Chemicals Management.

Sub-Program 3.1.2 - Effluent Management

Program Description

This program manages the risks to the environment and human health from the discharge and deposit of waste residues (e.g. effluent) by developing, implementing and administering strategies, instruments and programs pursuant to authorities and obligations. The program is responsible for developing and implementing regulations and other control instruments (e.g., pollution prevention plans, codes of practice, guidelines and environmental performance agreements) under the Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999, and the Fisheries Act, in order to address waste discharges and substances of concern from industrial and public sectors, including but not limited to the mining and processing, forestry, wastewater and other sectors. Key activities include: conducting research and risk analysis; developing and implementing regulations and other control instruments; assessing the results of environmental effects monitoring of regulated facilities; and providing technical advice to environmental assessments; and acting as the Fisheries Act Pollution Prevention Provisions focal point for the department. The program collaborates with partners (including other federal government departments, other levels of government and associations) and in consultation with industry, Aboriginal groups and other stakeholders.

2013-16 FSDS Implementation Strategies:

3.11.1: Administer the Wastewater Systems Effluent Regulations to reduce the threats to fish, fish habitat, and human health from fish consumption. (EC)

3.11.2: Continue to work with the Northwest Territories, Nunavut, Quebec, and Newfoundland and Labrador on minimum effluent quality standards for wastewater effluent for the far north. (EC)

3.11.3: Administer the Metal Mining Effluent Regulations under the Fisheries Act to control or manage the deposit of selected deleterious substances into water to protect water quality and aquatic ecosystems. (EC)

3.11.4: Administer the Pulp and Paper Effluent Regulations under the Fisheries Act to control or manage the deposit of selected deleterious substances into water to protect water quality and aquatic ecosystems. (EC)

4.8.12: Administer the Fisheries Act Pollution Prevention Provisions (FA-PPP) including the development of risk management instruments. (EC)

2013-14 Performance Measurement Framework

2013-14 Performance Analysis:

For performance narrative on the Implementation Strategies, please refer to the corresponding PAA program in the 2013-14 DPR, Performance Analysis and Lessons Learned section.

Implementation Strategies 3.11.1, 3.11.2, 3.11.3 and 3.11.4 contribute to FSDS Goal 3 - Water quality and water quantity, Target 3.11 - Wastewater and Industrial Effluent.

Implementation Strategy 4.8.12 contributes to FSDS Goal 4 - Conserving and Restoring Ecosystems, Wildlife and Habitat, and Protecting Canadians, Target 4.8 - Chemicals Management.

Sub-Program 3.1.3 - Marine Pollution

Program Description

This program assesses controls and monitors the disposal of wastes and other matter at sea, and addresses impacts to coasts and oceans from land-based activities. Since 2010, and as a result of a transfer of responsibility, the program is also responsible for assessing and controlling the risk of impacts to the marine environment as a result of Canadians or Canadian maritime traffic in the Antarctic. The program uses a mix of regulatory and non-regulatory instruments to prevent marine pollution. The program addresses waste impacts on sediments and its management: administers prohibitions, controls, assesses and issues permits for disposal at sea and Antarctic expeditions; and researches into development of decision-making tools, monitoring tools and standards. At the national level the program contributes to federal coordination of marine pollution-prevention (ship-sourced); and plays a co-leading role in the federal coordination for prevention of marine pollution from land-based activities, which supports key international commitments. Relevant legislation for the program includes the Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999, including Part 7, Division 3 (Disposal at Sea) and guidance under Part 7, Division 2 (Land-Based Activities) and Antarctic Environmental Protection Act, 2003. International obligations include the London Convention and Protocol, the Antarctic Treaty and Madrid Protocol. Two cost recovery fees are applicable to disposal at sea permits: an application fee assessed on all permits and a permit fee assessed on dredged and excavated material.

2013-16 FSDS Implementation Strategies:

3.9.1: Complementary to 3.8, set the regulatory frameworks through domestic legislation and international conventions that govern the protection of the marine environment from pollution from disposal at sea, and advance Canadian positions that can influence global rules towards reducing and managing global marine pollution from all sources. (EC)

3.9.2: Contribute to reducing pollution from disposal at sea through permit assessment and monitoring to ensure sustainability in compliance with Canadian legislation such as the Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999. (EC)

2013-14 Performance Measurement Framework

2013-14 Performance Analysis:

For performance narrative on the Implementation Strategies, please refer to the corresponding PAA program in the 2013-14 DPR, Performance Analysis and Lessons Learned section.

Implementation Strategies 3.9.1 and 3.9.2 contribute to FSDS Goal 3 - Water quality and water quantity, Target 3.9 - Marine Pollution - Disposal at Sea.

Sub-Program 3.1.4 - Environmental Emergencies

Program Description

This program aims to reduce the frequency and consequences of spills and related environmental emergencies involving toxic and other hazardous substances. The program conducts five major activities: Prevention-regulating chemical facilities to develop and implement environmental emergency plans; Preparedness-coordinating and planning international, national and regional environmental emergency preparedness capabilities; Response-monitoring of actions taken by the responsible party(ies), providing scientific and technical advice on weather and sea state and on behaviour and effects of chemicals, providing sensitivity mapping and trajectory modelling; attending significant incidents; and operating the 24/7 National Environmental Emergencies Centre in Montreal; Recovery- assessing the damage and providing advice to polluters on repairing an environment damaged by an environmental emergency; Research and Development-the development of spill models, analysis methods, fate and behaviour algorithms, measurement and remote-sensing capabilities, decontamination protocols, and countermeasures used during incidents. Authority for the program is derived on the Environmental Emergency Regulations, as well as section 34-38 of the Fisheries Act. The Program’s responsibilities during the response to an emergency are described in the Federal Emergency Response Plan’s Emergency Support Function Annex #6 - Environment (2009).

2013-16 FSDS Implementation Strategies:

4.7.4: In accordance with mandated responsibilities, provide environmental and/or other information to reduce the risk of, and advice in response to, the occurrence of events such as polluting incidents, wildlife disease events or severe weather and other significant hydro-meteorological events as applicable. (AAFC, AANDC, DFO, EC, HC, IC, NRCan, PC, PS, PWGSC, TC)

Specific examples include:

• Develop spill and dispersion models, analysis methods, fate and behaviour algorithms, measurement and remote sensing capabilities, decontamination protocols, and countermeasures used during incidents. (EC)
• Reduce the environmental consequences of spills by providing scientific and technical advice on weather, sea state and the behaviour and effects of chemicals, sampling and analysis, countermeasures, sensitivity mapping, trajectory, modelling, and operation of the 24/7 National Environmental Emergencies Centre in Montreal. (EC)

4.7.5: Prevent emergencies by promoting compliance, track and report number of environmental emergency plans in place as required by the Environmental Emergency Regulations, created pursuant to section 200 of the Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999. (EC)

2013-14 Performance Measurement Framework

2013-14 Performance Analysis:

For performance narrative on the Implementation Strategies, please refer to the corresponding PAA program in the 2013-14 DPR, Performance Analysis and Lessons Learned section.

Implementation Strategies 4.7.4 and 4.7.5 contribute to FSDS Goal 4 - Conserving and Restoring Ecosystems, Wildlife and Habitat, and Protecting Canadians, Target 4.7 - Environmental Disasters, Incidents and Emergencies.

Sub-Program 3.1.5 - Contaminated Sites

Program Description

This program activity is primarily directed to Environment Canada’s responsibilities in supporting the Federal Contaminated Sites Action Plan (FCSAP), a 15-year Government of Canada horizontal initiative that commenced in 2005 to address legacy contaminated sites owned by or the responsibility of the federal government (16 federal organizations are currently involved in this program, including Environment Canada as a custodian of sites for which it is responsible). Environment Canada’s responsibilities include hosting the FCSAP Secretariat and providing expert advice to other federal custodians on the issue of ecological risk reduction. The Environment Canada FCSAP Secretariat also coordinates implementation of the Shared Sites Policy Framework. Also falling under this program are Environment Canada’s responsibilities with respect to the Sydney Tar Ponds project, which include providing technical and scientific advice on environmental matters and enforcing legislation and regulations.

2013-16 FSDS Implementation Strategies:

4.8.1 Implement the Federal Contaminated Sites Action Plan and complete remediation and risk management activities at known high priority federal contaminated sites. (AAFC, AANDC, CSC, DFO, DND, EC, NRC, PC, PWGSC, RCMP, TC)

4.8.2 Guidance and program policies developed by the Federal Contaminated Sites Action Plan program secretariat and the expert support departments are provided to federal custodians for program implementation activities. (DFO, EC, HC, PWGSC)

2013-14 Performance Measurement Framework

2013-14 Performance Analysis:

For performance narrative on the Implementation Strategies, please refer to the corresponding PAA program in the 2013-14 DPR, Performance Analysis and Lessons Learned section.

Implementation Strategies 4.8.1 and 4.8.2 contribute to FSDS Goal 4 - Conserving and Restoring Ecosystems, Wildlife and Habitat, and Protecting Canadians, Target 4.8 - Chemicals Management.

Sub-Program 3.2.1 - Climate Change and Clean Air Regulatory Program

Program Description

This program is in place to develop sector-based approaches to regulating air pollutants and controlling greenhouse gas emissions and to promote science-based approaches to inform the development of new standards and regulations. Program activities focus on the reduction of emissions from the industrial, transportation and consumer and commercial products sectors. Air pollutants and greenhouse gas emissions pose considerable threats to the health and well-being of Canadians and have significant negative impacts on the environment, economy and quality of life. Consultations with industry, provincial governments, other federal departments, and other stakeholders are part of the continuous process to develop, update and implement effective standards and regulations.

2013-16 FSDS Implementation Strategies:

1.1.1: Develop domestic climate change strategies aligned with the U.S. as appropriate for Canadian circumstances as part of Canada’s commitment to meet its national GHG emissions target. (EC)

1.1.14: Undertake modelling, analysis and research, and develop regulatory impact analysis statements in order to support informed federal decision making on policy approaches to reduce GHG emissions and to analyze the economic and competitiveness impacts of policy approaches. (EC)

2.1.13: Undertake and deliver scientific research, monitoring, modelling, testing, data analysis and science advice to inform regulations, policies, programs, science assessments, and services as well as to evaluate effectiveness of actions. (EC, HC)

2.1.16: Undertake modelling, analysis and research, and develop regulatory impact analysis statements in order to support informed federal decision making on policy approaches to reduce air pollutant emissions and to analyze the economic and competitiveness impacts of policy approaches.(EC)

2013-14 Performance Measurement Framework

2013-14 Performance Analysis:

For performance narrative on the Implementation Strategies, please refer to the corresponding PAA program in the 2013-14 DPR, Performance Analysis and Lessons Learned section.

Implementation Strategies 1.1.1 and 1.1.14 contribute to FSDS Goal 1 - Climate Change, Target 1.1 - Climate Change Mitigation.

Implementation Strategies 2.1.13 and 2.1.16 contribute to FSDS Goal 2 - Air Pollution, Target 2.1 - Outdoor Air Pollutants.

Sub-Sub-Program 3.2.1.1 - Industrial Sector Emissions

Program Description

This program aims to reduce emissions of air pollutants and greenhouse gases from industrial sectors (including energy). This program’s key activities include: monitoring, reporting, verification, research, modelling and scientific assessments of current and future levels of air pollutants and greenhouse gas emissions to improve risk management and support standards, regulations and other risk management instruments; meeting domestic reporting requirements under the Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999, and international reporting requirements under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change; providing information to Canadians and decision makers about the environmental impacts and the potential health risks associated with air pollutants; development of an Annex to the Canada--United States Air Quality Agreement to reduce transboundary flows of particulate matter; and developing, designing and implementing standards, regulations and other risk management instruments to manage air pollutants and greenhouse gas emissions, which may include the design and implementation of compliance mechanisms. Consultations with industry representatives, provincial governments, other federal departments and other stakeholders are part of the continuous process to develop, update and implement effective regulations. Also included in this program is the interdepartmental coordination of the Horizontal Management, Accountability and Reporting Framework in support of clean air^Footnote 8.

2013-16 FSDS Implementation Strategies:

1.1.13: Undertake and deliver scientific research, risk assessment and regular reporting in support of regulatory and other programs, including data analysis, inventory development, monitoring, modelling and assessment of the effectiveness of efforts as well as research on options, costs and benefits, and technology assessments. (EC)

1.1.15: Provide science information and expertise to inform science assessments and reports related to climate change. (EC)

1.1.16: Continue to implement and expand the single-window reporting initiative for national releases and emissions reporting. (EC)

1.1.17: Continue to develop and implement regulations to reduce GHG emissions from emissions intensive trade exposed (EITE) sectors. (EC)

1.1.18: Continue to develop and implement regulations and other instruments to reduce GHG emissions in the electricity sector. (EC)

1.1.19: Continue to develop regulations to reduce GHG emissions in the oil and gas sectors. (EC)

1.1.56: Develop and submit a complete and compliant annual national GHG Inventory Report and Common Reporting Format tables to the UNFCCC Secretariat by April 15 to meet UNFCCC reporting requirements. (EC)

2.1.12: Track releases of harmful substances under the National Pollutant Release Inventory in accordance with Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999. (EC)

2.1.14: Characterize the impacts of air pollution on ecosystems and wildlife in order to evaluate the impact of regulations and inform regulatory development. (EC)

2.1.15:  Using the National Pollutant Release Inventory and other data sources, prepare and submit Air Pollutant Emission Inventory to meet domestic needs and international reporting requirements. (EC)

2.1.17: Begin to deliver scientific information and advice required to better understand the impacts of the oil sands sector on air quality and deposition of atmospheric contaminants into aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems. (EC)

2.1.19: Continue to work collaboratively with provinces, territories and stakeholders to implement the Air Quality Management System, which includes new ambient air quality standards, a framework for managing air quality through local air zones and regional airsheds, and emissions requirements for major industrial sectors and equipment types. (EC, HC)

2.1.25: Continue to develop, implement and administer emission standards to reduce air pollutants in the major industrial sectors and equipment types. (EC)

2013-14 Performance Measurement Framework

2013-14 Performance Analysis:

For performance narrative on the Implementation Strategies, please refer to the corresponding PAA program in the 2013-14 DPR, Performance Analysis and Lessons Learned section.

Implementation Strategies 1.1.13, 1.1.15, 1.1.16, 1.1.17, 1.1.18, 1.1.19 and 1.1.56 contribute to FSDS Goal 1 - Climate Change, Target 1.1 - Climate Change Mitigation.

Implementation Strategies 2.1.12, 2.1.14, 2.1.15, 2.1.17, 2.1.19, and 2.1.25 contribute to FSDS Goal 2 - Air Pollution, Target 2.1 - Outdoor Air Pollutants.

Sub-Sub-Program 3.2.1.2 - Transportation Sector Emissions

Program Description

This program aims to reduce emissions from transportation sources (vehicles, engines and fuels, including biofuels). This will be achieved through the development, implementation and administration of regulations under the Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999. The program’s key activities include development of greenhouse gas regulations for light-duty and heavy-duty vehicles; development of air pollutant regulations for various vehicles, engines and fuels, including biofuels; administration of those regulations including testing and emissions verification to ensure compliance to the standards; emissions research and test method development and working with partners to reduce emissions from marine sources.

2013-16 FSDS Implementation Strategies:

1.1.29: Continue to work with Provincial and Territorial governments through a Mobile Sources Working Group (MSWG) to develop an Action Plan to reduce emissions from the mobile sources sector by sharing information and identifying areas of joint interest among jurisdictions, departments and ministries. (EC)

1.1.33: Develop and implement GHG emission regulations for light-duty vehicles (for model years 2017-2025) and heavy-duty vehicles (for model years 2014-2018) under the Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999, which will align with those of the U.S. (EC, TC)

1.1.34: Address GHG emissions from maritime shipping by working with the International Maritime Organization in the development of new international standards and recommended practices for marine vessels, as well as through the implementation of new Canadian regulations, and targeted research and development. (EC, TC)

2.1.21: Address air pollutant emissions from maritime shipping by working with the International Maritime Organization in the development of new international standards and recommended practices for marine vessels, as well as through the implementation of new Canadian regulations, and targeted research and development. (EC, TC)

2.1.24: Continue to develop, implement and administer emission standards to reduce air pollutants in the transportation sector. (EC)

2013-14 Performance Measurement Framework

2013-14 Performance Analysis:

For performance narrative on the Implementation Strategies, please refer to the corresponding PAA program in the 2013-14 DPR, Performance Analysis and Lessons Learned section.

Implementation Strategies 1.1.29, 1.1.33, and 1.1.34 contribute to FSDS Goal 1 - Climate Change, Target 1.1 - Climate Change Mitigation.

Implementation Strategies 2.1.21 and 2.1.24 contribute to FSDS Goal 2 - air pollution, Target 2.1 - outdoor air pollutants.

Sub-Sub-Program 3.2.1.3 - Consumer and Commercial Products Sector

Program Description

The Consumer and Commercial Products Sector program aims to reduce emissions of air pollutants from consumer and commercial products. This will be achieved through the development and administration of regulations and other measures under the Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999 (Part 5-Controlling Toxic Substances). Key activities in the program include: developing and implementing regulatory and voluntary instruments to control the emissions of air pollutants and harmful substances (volatile organic compounds); and developing a strategic plan to guide action in other consumer and commercial product sectors for the next phase of regulatory and non-regulatory measures. Program delivery may include Contributions in support of Climate Change and Clean Air.

2013-16 FSDS Implementation Strategies:

2.1.23 Target control measures on volatile organic compounds in some consumer and commercial products. (EC)

2013-14 Performance Measurement Framework

2013-14 Performance Analysis:

For performance narrative on the Implementation Strategies, please refer to the corresponding PAA program in the 2013-14 DPR, Performance Analysis and Lessons Learned section.

Implementation Strategy 2.1.23 contributes to FSDS Goal 2 - air pollution, Target 2.1 - outdoor air pollutants.

Sub-Program 3.2.2 - International Climate Change and Clean Air Partnership

Program Description

This program leads the development and implementation of bilateral and international agreements to address air pollutants and global greenhouse gas emissions and coordinates Canada’s policy, negotiating positions and participation in relevant international fora of global significance. Activities within this program include: implementation of the United States - Canada Clean Energy Dialogue, a mechanism to support bilateral collaboration on clean energy technologies and that seeks solutions for reducing greenhouse gas emissions to accelerate the transition to a low-carbon economy; cooperative work and ongoing implementation under the North American Commission for Environmental Cooperation to support a priority related to climate change and a low-carbon economy; participation and ongoing implementation of the Montreal Protocol and the Convention on Long-range Transboundary Air Pollution in order to leverage global/transboundary action to reduce emissions of ozone-depleting substances, smog and acid rain; improved alignment, in cooperation with other departments, of international programs with domestic priorities; the North American Leaders’ Summit; participation in the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) process and complementary international processes to negotiate a comprehensive, binding international climate change agreement; and participation in international processes and partnerships to further Canada’s negotiating positions and objectives in the UNFCCC, including participation in the Climate and Clean Air Coalition to reduce short-lived climate pollutants.

2013-16 FSDS Implementation Strategies:

1.1.49: Lead Government of Canada participation in international negotiations at the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) on climate change for a post-2020 climate change agreement. (EC)

1.1.50: Work to implement Canada's commitments concluded in international climate change negotiations such as mitigation targets and actions; short-and long-term financing; mechanisms for technology and reducing emissions from deforestation and forest degradation; adaptation actions; and provisions for transparency and accountability of climate change actions. (EC, NRCan)

1.1.52: Support Canada’s participation in multilateral fora outside of the UNFCCC and ensure that Canada's international climate change objectives are advanced in international meetings including addressing short-lived climate pollutants (e.g. Climate and Clean Air Coalition, Global Methane Initiative and Global Alliance for Clean Cookstoves, Major Economies Forum and Arctic Council). (AAFC, EC)

1.1.53: Ensure that Canada’s international climate change objectives related to energy and clean technology are advanced in international meetings (e.g. Canada-U.S. Clean Energy Dialogue, UNFCCC, Clean Energy Ministerial). (EC, NRCan)

1.1.54: Contribute to the overall functioning of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change and the Inter-American Institute for Global Change Research and their ongoing work to produce policy-relevant scientific information on climate change. (EC)

1.1.55: Work with the U.S. and Mexico under the auspices of the Commission for Environmental Cooperation to address common issues related to climate change and air quality. (EC)

2.1.20: Work with other jurisdictions, including the U.S. under the Canada-U.S. Air Quality Agreement (AQA) to undertake regional and international efforts to manage transboundary air pollution of concern for Canadians and their environment. This includes work towards the completion of the necessary scientific, technical and regulatory foundations required for the consideration of a Particulate Matter Annex under the AQA. (EC, HC) 

2.1.28: Continue to promote a North American proposal to phase-down emissions of hydrofluorocarbons under the Montreal Protocol and develop complementary domestic regulations where appropriate. (EC)

2.1.30: Revise domestic ozone-depleting substances regulations in support of the Montreal Protocol commitment to accelerate the phase-out of hydrochlorofluorocarbons. (EC)

Performance Measurement Framework (PMF)

2013-14 Performance Analysis:

For performance narrative on the Implementation Strategies, please refer to the corresponding PAA program in the 2013-14 DPR, Performance Analysis and Lessons Learned section.

Implementation Strategies 1.1.49, 1.1.50, 1.1.52, 1.1.53, 1.1.54 and 1.1.55 contribute to FSDS Goal 1 - Climate Change, Target 1.1 - Climate Change Mitigation.

Implementation Strategies 2.1.20, 2.1.28 and 2.1.30 contribute to FSDS Goal 2 - air pollution, Target 2.1 - outdoor air pollutants.

Sub-Program 3.2.3 - Environmental Technology

Program Description

This program delivers expert environmental science and technology analysis and assessment, and program management, in support of the Government of Canada’s clean air and greenhouse gas (GHG) technology investment decisions, policy making and regulations. Key activities include: overseeing the operations of Sustainable Development Technology Canada (SDTC) and a range of other science and technology programs related to clean technology and providing expert analysis and assessment to advance clean technologies to help ensure government priorities such as clean air, climate change, and green infrastructure are addressed.

2013-16 FSDS Implementation Strategies:

1.1.2 and 2.1.9: Provide analysis and assessments of the environmental performance of new and emerging technologies, and contribute to the oversight of programs, such as Sustainable Development Technology Canada, that advance clean technologies. (EC)

Performance Measurement Framework

2013-14 Performance Analysis:

For performance narrative on the Implementation Strategies, please refer to the corresponding PAA program in the 2013-14 DPR, Performance Analysis and Lessons Learned section.

Implementation Strategy 1.1.2 contributes to FSDS Goal 1 - Climate Change, Target 1.1 - Climate Change Mitigation.

Implementation Strategy 2.1.9 contributes to FSDS Goal 2 - air pollutants, Target 2.1 - outdoor air pollutants.

Program 3.3 - Compliance Promotion and Enforcement - Pollution

Program Description

This program contributes to minimizing damages and threats to the natural environment and biodiversity through the promotion and enforcement of legislation administered by Environment Canada. Program actions focus on pollution including toxic substances, their release to air, water or land, and the import and export of hazardous waste that presents a risk to the environment and/or human health. The program maintains a contingent of compliance promotion and enforcement officers. Compliance promotion officers provide information to regulatees on legislative requirements, the economic and environmental benefits of compliance and the potential penalties of non-compliance. Enforcement officers' activities include gathering intelligence, conducting inspections to verify compliance with laws and regulations, and pursuing investigations to take appropriate enforcement measures against offenders. The program also performs compliance analysis in order to provide continuous feedback on program planning and results.

2013-16 FSDS Implementation Strategies:

2.1.10: Work with the U.S. and Mexico under the auspices of the Commission for Environmental Cooperation to strengthen environmental enforcement. (EC)

2.1.29: Deliver compliance promotion activities for key regulatory initiatives. (EC)

4.8.10: Deliver compliance promotion activities for key regulatory initiatives. (EC)

Performance Measurement Framework

2013-14 Performance Analysis:

For performance narrative on the Implementation Strategies, please refer to the corresponding PAA program in the 2013-14 DPR, Performance Analysis and Lessons Learned section.

Implementation Strategies 2.1.10 and 2.1.29 contribute to FSDS Goal 2 - Air Pollutants, Target 2.1 - Outdoor Air Pollutants.

Implementation Strategy 4.8.10 contributes to FSDS Goal 4 - Conserving and Restoring Ecosystems, Wildlife and Habitat, and Protecting Canadians, Target 4.8 - Chemicals Management