2023-24 Departmental Plan: Details on transfer payment programs

General information

Start date

April 1, 2018

End date

March 31, 2026

Type of transfer payment

Contribution

Type of appropriation

The program is appropriated annually through Estimates.

Fiscal year for terms and conditions

2022-23

Link to departmental result(s)

Canada’s wildlife are conserved and protected

Canada’s species at risk are recovered

Indigenous peoples are engaged in conservation

Link to department’s Program Inventory

Species at Risk and Habitat Conservation and Protection.

Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program

The Canada Nature Fund is a critical tool for advancing actions by, or in cooperation with, others that conserve and protect Canada’s habitat and biodiversity.

The Canada Nature Fund will conserve, establish and/or expand protected areas, secure private land, support provincial and territorial species protection efforts and help build Indigenous capacity to conserve land and species. It will support and enable others to undertake actions that conserve wildlife and protect and improve their habitat.

The objective of the Canada Nature Fund terms and conditions is to support the Government of Canada’s plan to protect 25% of Canada’s land and freshwater by 2025, lay a foundation toward 30% by 2030, and deepen protection for species at risk through an integrated approach to land conservation and species protection, in collaboration with provinces and territories, Indigenous peoples, private and non-profit sectors.

Expected results

The Canada Nature Fund will support and further collaboration and momentum for conserving Canada’s biodiversity and habitat and demonstrate the federal government’s leadership in enabling the establishment of protected and conserved areas, and preventing, protecting and recovering species at risk.

Projects funded will contribute to the departmental core responsibility of Conserving Nature, and will contribute to the following key expected results:

• Canada’s wildlife and habitat are conserved and protected
• Canada’s species at risk are recovered
• Indigenous peoples are engaged in conservation

Fiscal year of last completed evaluation

A formative evaluation of the Canada Nature Fund was completed in fiscal year 2021-2022

Decision following the results of last evaluation

Recommendations were made to review the existing formal governance structure to improve communication and coordination across the Spaces and Species Streams, improve and streamline future application processes, and better support the participation of Indigenous communities in funding opportunities. Management agreed with the recommendations and developed an action plan to address the recommendations.

Fiscal year of next planned evaluation

Three evaluations are planned

2023-2024: Species at Risk Program (ECCC-led horizontal evaluation will include projects under Conserving Nature and Canada Nature Fund) and Habitat Conservation and Protection Program (ECCC internal evaluation will include projects under Conserving Nature and Canada Nature Fund)).

2025-2026: Enhanced Nature Legacy (ECCC-led horizontal evaluation

General targeted recipient groups

Domestic or international not-for-profit organizations; domestic or international Indigenous organizations, governments, individuals, boards, commissions, communities, associations and authorities; domestic or international research, academic and educational institutions; Canadian or foreign individuals; domestic or international for-profit organizations; local organizations; Provincial, territorial, municipal and local governments and provincial Crown corporations.

Initiatives to engage applicants and recipients

Environment and Climate Change Canada engages applicants and recipients under this program in two ways: applicants through application processes related to specific program elements and single or named recipients identified on the basis of their unique ability to acheive targeted program results. The Department employs one or a combination of the following strategies to provide access to the program in a clear, understandable and accessible manner: publicity in news media; information provided on the departmental website; letter-writing activities; and meetings with targeted recipient communities. Administrative requirements have been tailored to evaluated risk levels, and efficiency is being improved through simplified agreement templates.

General information

Start date

April 1, 2018

End date

Ongoing

Type of transfer payment

Contribution

Type of appropriation

The program is appropriated annually through Estimates.

Fiscal year for terms and conditions

2022-2023

Link to departmental result(s)

• Canada’s wildlife and habitat are conserved and protected
• Canada’s species at risk are recovered
• Indigenous peoples are engaged in conservation

And potential projects that contribute to other concurrent departmental results:

• Canada contributes to biodiversity conservation domestically and internationally;
• Canadian greenhouse gas and short-lived climate pollutant emissions are reduced; and
• Indigenous Peoples are engaged in clean growth and climate change.

Link to the department’s Program Inventory

Species at Risk; Biodiversity Policy and Partnerships; Migratory Birds and other Wildlife; Environmental Assessment; Habitat Conservation and Protection; and Compliance Promotion and Enforcement – Wildlife

Clean Growth and Climate Change Mitigation; International Climate Change Action; and Climate Change Adaptation

Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program

The purpose is to advance conservation of biodiversity and sustainable development. The overall objective of the Conserving Nature Program is to conserve, protect and recover Canada’s wildlife including; species at risk and their habitat (including critical habitat); and healthy populations of migratory birds. Actions taken will also contribute to Canada’s biodiversity strategy and related domestic and international partnership interests, including the establishment and management of protected areas, other effective conservation measures, Indigenous protected and conserved areas and Indigenous people’s capacity and participation in conservation; and support actions to reduce Canadian greenhouse gas emissions.

Expected results

The Conserving Nature Program will support biodiversity conservation domestically and internationally. Specifically, projects funded will contribute to the departmental core responsibility of Conserving Nature, and will contribute to the following key expected results:

• Canada’s wildlife and habitat are conserved and protected
• Canada’s species at risk are recovered
• Indigenous peoples are engaged in conservation

Where applicable, projects funded will contribute to helping Canada achieve its 2030 and 2050 GHG reduction commitments by using nature-based solutions to sequester and store carbon to fight climate change, while achieving biodiversity and other co-benefits, including adapting and building resilience to the impacts of a changing climate.

Fiscal year of last completed evaluation

N/A

Decision following the results of last evaluation

N/A

Fiscal year of next planned evaluation

Four evaluations are planned:

2023-2024: Species at Risk Program (ECCC-led horizontal evaluation will include projects under Conserving Nature and Canada Nature Fund); Habitat Conservation and Protection Program (ECCC internal evaluation will include projects under Conserving Nature and Canada Nature Fund); and Migratory Birds and Other Wildlife Program.

2024-2025: Biodiversity Policy and Partnership Program.

General targeted recipient groups

Domestic or international not-for-profit organizations; domestic or international Indigenous organizations, governments, Individuals, boards, commissions, communities, associations and authorities; domestic or international research, academic and educational institutions; Canadian or foreign individuals; domestic or international for-profit organizations; local organizations; Provincial, territorial, municipal and local governments and provincial Crown corporations;

Initiatives to engage applicants and recipients

Environment and Climate Change Canada engages applicants and recipients under this program in two ways: applicants through application processes related to specific program elements and single or named recipients identified on the basis of their unique ability to acheive targeted program results. The Department employs one or a combination of the following strategies to provide access to the program in a clear, understandable and accessible manner: publicity in news media; information provided on the departmental website; letter-writing activities; and meetings with targeted recipient communities. Administrative requirements have been tailored to evaluated risk levels, and efficiency is being improved through simplified agreement templates.

General information

Start date

April 1, 2017

End date

March 31, 2029

Type of transfer payment

Grant and Contribution

Type of appropriation

The program is appropriated annually through Estimates

Fiscal year for terms and conditions

2018-2019

Link to departmental result(s)

Canadian greenhouse gas and short-lived climate pollutant emissions are reduced

Link to Program Inventory

Clean Growth and Climate Change Mitigation

Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program

The Low Carbon Economy Fund (LCEF) is a critical tool for advancing incremental domestic mitigation action under the Pan-Canadian Framework on Clean Growth and Climate Change (PCF), Canada’s Strengthened Climate Plan (SCP), and the Emissions Reduction Plan (ERP). The LCEF supports the implementation of Canada’s climate plan by helping transition Canada to a low carbon economy and working towards meeting or exceeding commitments under the Paris Agreement.

The LCEF supports provincial and territorial mitigation action in the context of the SCP. Specifically, the LCEF supports actions that materially reduce greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) which includes actions that materially increase removals where relevant and are incremental to current plans, and achieve significant reductions in support of Canada’s Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) under the Paris Agreement. In addition, where possible, resources will be allocated towards those projects that yield the greatest absolute greenhouse gas reductions for the lowest cost-per-tonne.

Expected results

Continue to support collaboration and maintain momentum with provinces and territories, as well as other partners, while also demonstrating the Government’s leadership in addressing climate change; and effectively implementing proposals approved for funding under the LCEF in order to contribute to Canada’s transition to a resilient, low-carbon economy.

Fiscal year of last completed evaluation

Not applicable (N/A)

Decision following the results of last evaluation

N/A

Fiscal year of next planned evaluation

An evaluation of the Low Carbon Economy Fund is planned to begin in fiscal year 2024-25*.

* Note: date of evaluation may be advanced to 2023-24

General targeted recipient groups

Provincial, territorial, and municipal governments and provincial Crown corporations; Indigenous organizations and communities; not-for-profit non-governmental organizations; individuals; research, academic and educational institutions; private corporations and businesses

Initiatives to engage applicants and recipients

For the Leadership Fund, ECCC conducted face-to-face meetings with all provinces and territories to provide clarification on the program and discuss initial proposals.

ECCC also responded to applicant questions via email throughout the Champions and Partnerships stream application processes.

General information

Start date

April 1, 2018

End date

Ongoing

Type of transfer payment

Contribution

Type of appropriation

The program is appropriated annually through Estimates.

Fiscal year for terms and conditions

2018-19

Link to departmental result(s)

Canadians have clean air

Canadians have clean water

The Canadian environment is protected from harmful substances

Link to the department’s Program Inventory

Air Quality; Water Quality and Ecosystems Partnerships; Community Eco-Action; and Substances and Waste Management

Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program

The purpose is to protect, conserve and have a positive impact on the environment.

Expected results

• Reduce releases and monitor levels of contaminants in air, water and soil;
• Promote and enforce compliance with environmental laws and regulations;
• Develop and administer on the ground projects that have positive impacts on the environment, environmental standards, guidelines, regulations and other risk management instruments by collaborating with provinces, territories, Indigenous peoples, community based groups and other stakeholders.

Fiscal year of last completed evaluation

The Community Interaction Program (CIP) was part of the St. Lawrence Action Plan 2022-2023 bilateral and federal evaluations.

Decision following the results of last evaluation

The results of the St. Lawrence Action Plan 2022-2023 bilateral and federal evaluations were not yet available at time of writing the DP 2023-2024 (results will be available at the end of fiscal year 2022-2023).

Fiscal year of next planned evaluation

N/A

General targeted recipient groups

Not-for-profit organizations; Indigenous organizations and communities; research, academic and educational institutions; individuals; for-profit organizations; local organizations; environmental groups; community groups; youth and senior groups; community-based associations; service clubs; and/or provincial, territorial, municipal and local governments and provincial Crown corporations.

Initiatives to engage applicants and recipients

Environment and Climate Change Canada engages applicants and recipients under this program in two ways: recipients through application-based process, and/or recipients based on their unique ability to address targeted program results. The Department employs one or a combination of the following initiatives to provide access to the program in a clear, understandable and accessible manner: publicity in news media; information provided on the departmental website; letter-writing activities; email correspondence with targeted interest groups; and meetings with targeted recipient communities. Administrative requirements have been tailored to evaluated risk levels, and efficiency is being addressed through simplified agreement templates.

General information

Start date

April 1, 2018

End date

Ongoing

Type of transfer payment

Grants and Contributions

Type of appropriation

The program is appropriated annually through Estimates.

Fiscal year for terms and conditions

2018-19

Link to departmental result(s)

Canadian greenhouse gas and short-lived climate pollutant emissions are reduced.

Indigenous peoples are engaged in clean growth and climate change.

Canada contributes to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and increasing climate resilience globally.

Canadian communities, economies, and ecosystems are more resilient.

Link to the department’s Program Inventory

Clean Growth and Climate Change Mitigation, International Climate Change Action and Climate Change Adaptation

Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program

The purpose is to promote change towards sustainable environmental and climate change development and policies.

Expected results

• Support and coordinate the implementation of the Pan-Canadian Framework on Clean Growth and Climate Change (PCF) and Canada’s climate plan;
• Increase awareness on climate and climate change initiatives;
• Increase youth, student and Indigenous participation in climate change initiatives;
• Support actions that reduce Canadian greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions;
• Develop regulatory instruments;
• Support businesses and Canadians to adapt and become more resilient to climate change;
• Contribute to international climate change actions to increase global benefits; and
• To support the Net Zero Advisory Body’s (NZAB) work and recommendations to help Canada develop pathways for emissions reduction for the 2030 and 2050 target.
• To support the Canadian Climate Institute’s (CCI) work to generate, communicate and mobilize independent and trusted information, policy advice and best practices related to clean growth and climate change

Fiscal year of last completed evaluation

An evaluation of Core Climate Change Mitigation will be/was completed in 2022-2023

Decision following the results of last evaluation

N/A

Fiscal year of next planned evaluation

An evaluation of Core Climate Change Mitigation will be conducted in FY 2025-26.

General targeted recipient groups

Domestic or international not-for-profit organizations; domestic or international Indigenous organizations; domestic or international research, academic and educational institutions; Canadian or foreign individuals; domestic or international for-profit organizations; local organizations; provincial, territorial, and municipal governments and provincial Crown corporations.

Initiatives to engage applicants and recipients

Environment and Climate Change Canada engages applicants and recipients under this program in two ways: applicants through applications related to specific program elements; and recipients through single or named recipients identified based on their unique ability to address targeted program results. The Department employs one or a combination of the following initiatives to provide access to the program in a clear, understandable and accessible manner: publicity in news media; information provided on the departmental website; letter-writing activities; and meetings with targeted recipient communities. Administrative requirements have been tailored to evaluated risk levels, and efficiency is being addressed through simplified agreement templates.

General information

Start date

2021-22

End date

Ongoing

Type of transfer payment

Grants and Contribution

Type of appropriation

The program is appropriated annually through Estimates.

Fiscal year for terms and conditions

2021-22

Link to departmental result(s)

Canada contributes to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and increasing climate resilience globally.

Link to the department’s Program Inventory

International Climate Change Action

Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program

The purpose is to promote climate change actions and policies in developing countries.

Expected results

In 2021, Canada announced its $5.3 billion climate finance commitment over five years to support developing countries to combat climate change, while striving to address biodiversity loss around the world. Canada’s climate finance programming is being implemented by ECCC and Global Affairs Canada. ECCC’s portion of the program is $160 million over the five years. The expected result of the program is to contribute to international climate change action to support global transition to low-carbon and climate resilient economies.

Fiscal year of last completed evaluation

Not applicable

Decision following the results of last evaluation

Not applicable

Fiscal year of next planned evaluation

Not applicable

General targeted recipient groups

The targeted recipient groups of the program are developing countries, particularly low and middle-income countries.

Initiatives to engage applicants and recipients

ECCC engages with recipients to ensure project development and disbursement of funds is in-line with strategic and policy objectives. Activities were implemented in-line with planned activities outlined in the Departmental Plan.

General information

Start date

1997

End date

N/A

Type of transfer payment

Contribution

Type of appropriation

The program is appropriated annually through Estimates

Fiscal year for terms and conditions

2008-09

Link to departmental result(s)

Canada contributes to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and increasing climate resilience globally

Link to the department’s Program Inventory

International Climate Change Action

Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program

To enable Canada’s obligation to cost share, alongside the US and Mexico, the core/projected expenses of the Commission for Environmental Cooperation (CEC).

Expected results

• For the period of 2022-23 to 2024-25, the CEC is expected to deliver on a number of fronts based on the 2021-2025 CEC Strategic Plan, which was approved at the 2020 Council Session (ministerial-level).
• The 2021-2025 CEC Strategic Plan serves to guide trilateral cooperation over the course of the next five years, and establishes the following areas of mutual interest: (1) Clean Air, Land, and Water; (2) Preventing and Reducing Pollution in the Marine Environment; (3) Circular Economy and Sustainable Materials Management; (4) Shared Ecosystems and Species; (5) Resilient Economies and Communities; and, (6) Effective Enforcement of Environmental Laws.
• Based on the aforementioned areas of interest, the expected results for the period of 2022-23 to 2024-25 are as follows:
  • The Secretariat successfully launches five trilateral projects, to be implemented over the two calendar years, related to: (1) grasslands conservation; (2) implementation of CITES Appendix II; (3) recycling and solid waste management; (4) nature-based solutions to climate change; and, (5) marine litter.
  • The Secretariat successfully launches three trilateral projects focused on: (1) reducing food loss and waste; (2) setting a self-sustained EcoInnovation Network; and, (3) modernizing the data exchange system for hazardous waste transfers.
  • The Secretariat successfully launches four additional initiatives, which include a new grant to tackle environmental justice, three large-scale initiatives (black carbon mitigation, ghost gear, and environmental education), and one initiative to support isolated, remote and Indigenous communities transitioning to clean, renewable and reliable sources of energy, in collaboration with the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA).
  • The Secretairat successfully launches the Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK) work on Freshwater management.

Fiscal year of last completed evaluation

2020-2021 Horizontal Evaluation of International Climate Change Cooperation

Decision following the results of last evaluation

Continuation. Management developed an action plan to address the two recommendations outlined in the Evaluation report.

Fiscal year of next planned evaluation

An Horizontal Evaluation of International Climate Change Cooperation is planned for 2024-2025. This evaluation will be led by GAC.

General targeted recipient groups

Commission for Environmental Cooperation

Initiatives to engage applicants and recipients

N/A

General information

Start date

1975

End date

Ongoing

Type of transfer payment

Contribution

Type of appropriation

The program is appropriated annually through Estimates.

Fiscal year for terms and conditions

2010-11

Link to departmental result(s)

Canada’s species at risk are recovered

Link to the department’s Program Inventory

Biodiversity Policy and Partnerships

Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program

Canada is a signatory to this convention and is thus bound by the requirements of the international convention, including the obligation to pay the assessed contribution.

Expected results

The Terms and Conditions establish results and an indicator for Canada as a Party to the Convention as follows:

Expected Result: Canadian interests and priorities related to the international trade of endangered species are addressed by CITES.

Indicator: Percentage of Canadian interventions and/or negotiating positions, which are adopted by the Conference of the Parties.

To achieve these results, Canada maintains membership in the Convention and the associated obligations. As such, for 2022-2023 to 2021-2025, Canada will continue to meet its obligations to the Convention by paying its assessed annual contribution at the level agreed by the CITES Conference of the Parties.

Fiscal year of last completed evaluation

2009–2010 (Evaluation of Environment Canada’s Class Grants and Contributions

Decision following the results of last evaluation

Continuation

Fiscal year of next planned evaluation

2023-2024 (Evaluation of Species at Risk, including SAR components of Canada Nature Fund

General targeted recipient groups

CITES Secretariat

Initiative to engage applicants and recipients

Canadian officials engage in determining the activities of the Convention through existing governance mechanisms, notably participation in the Conference of the Parties and its negotiations on budget.

General information

Start date

1981

End date

Ongoing

Type of transfer payment

Contribution

Type of appropriation

The program is appropriated annually through Estimates.

Fiscal year for terms and conditions

2010-11

Link to departmental result(s)

Canada’s wildlife and habitat are conserved and protected

Canada’s species at risk are recovered

Indigenous peoples are engaged in conservation

Link to the department’s Program Inventory

Biodiversity Policy and Partnerships

Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program

Canada has been a Contracting Party to the Ramsar Convention since 1981.

Annual membership dues are an obligation of the Parties based on terms agreed to at the Convention of the Contracting Parties.

Expected results

As established under the Terms and conditions for assessed contribution to the Convention on Wetlands of International Importance (Ramsar Convention), the expected result is: Canada’s interests and priorities related to wetlands are addressed by the Ramsar Convention.

The indicator is:

• Percentage of Canadian interventions and/or negotiating positions, which are adopted by the Conference of the Contracting Parties.

In 2023-24, Canada will continue to meet its obligations to the Convention by paying it’s assessed annual contribution at the level agreed by the Ramsar Convention Conference of the Parties and fulfilling its responsibilities as the North American Regional Representative on Standing Committee.

Fiscal year of last completed evaluation

2017-18 (Evaluation of the Habitat Conservation Partnerships Program)

Decision following the results of last evaluation

Continuation

Fiscal year of next planned evaluation

2023-24 Evaluation of the Habitat Conservation and Partnerships Program. The evaluation scope will be decided with program partners.

General targeted recipient groups

Ramsar Convention Secretariat

Initiatives to engage applicants and recipients

Environment and Climate Change Canada engages the recipient through established governance mechanisms.

General information

Start date

January 1, 2018

End date

Ongoing

Type of transfer payment

Contribution

Type of appropriation

The program is appropriated annually through Estimates

Fiscal year for terms and conditions

2017-18

Link to departmental result(s)

Canadians have clean water

The Canadian environment is protected from harmful substances

Link to the department’s Program Inventory

Substances and Waste Management

Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program

Canada is a Party to the Minamata Convention on Mercury (the Convention). The Convention is a multilateral treaty to protect human health and the environment from emissions and releases of mercury and mercury compounds resulting from human activities. The payment is made to the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) to support the programme of work under the Convention.

Expected results

As a Party, Canada is responsible for paying its annual assessed contributions which fund activities under the Convention agreed to at the Conference of the Parties (COP) meetings. At meetings in November 2021 and March 2022, the COP agreed to the budget and programme of work for 2022 and 2023, including support for the first effectiveness evaluation of the treaty, national reporting, and communication and outreach activities. A budget and programme of work for the 2024-2025 biennium will be discussed at the next COP meeting scheduled for October 2023.

Under ECCC’s Departmental Plan the following performance indicators and results are expected for Minamata:

• Indicator #1: Canada pays its assessed contribution on an annual basis
  • Expected Result: Canada pays its annual assessed contribution in full by the January 31 due date
• Indicator #2: Canadian interests and priorities with respect to the global control and reduction of mercury are considered
  • Expected Result: Canada actively participates in Minamata Convention work to ensure that our views are considered during the intersessional period and during COP meetings

Fiscal year of last completed evaluation

Not applicable

Decision following the results of last evaluation

Not applicable

Fiscal year of next planned evaluation

Not applicable

General targeted recipient groups

United Nations Environment Programme

Initiatives to engage applicants and recipients

The funds are paid to UNEP and dispersed to the Convention Secretariat in accordance with the budget agreed to at the previous meeting of the COP.

General information

Start date

2017-18

End date

Ongoing

Type of transfer payment

Contribution

Type of appropriation

The program is appropriated annually through Estimates.

Fiscal year for terms and conditions

2017-18

Link to departmental result(s)

Canada contributes to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and increasing climate resilience globally

Link to the department’s Program Inventory

International Climate Change Action

Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program

The International Bamboo and Rattan Organisation (INBAR) is an intergovernmental organization dedicated to improving the social, economic, and environmental benefits for producers and users of bamboo and rattan, while maintaining a sustainable resource base by supporting innovative research and development.

Expected results

The International Network for Bamboo and Rattan promotes the use of bamboo as an available, scalable nature-based solution and a tool for climate change mitigation in line with ECCCs core responsibility to take action on clean growth and climate change and conserve nature. The preservation and sustainable management of bamboo can be a critical way for countries to reach carbon neutrality, and to achieve related goals: reversing biodiversity loss, land degradation and deforestation.

Fiscal year of last completed evaluation

Not applicable

Decision following the results of last evaluation

Not applicable

Fiscal year of next planned evaluation

Not applicable

General targeted recipient groups

International Network for Bamboo and Rattan

Initiatives to engage applicants and recipients

Through Canada’s Embassy in Beijing, where INBAR is headquartered, Canada participates in the Annual General Meeting and other regular meetings of the organization.

General information

Start date

1994

End date

Ongoing

Type of transfer payment

Contribution

Type of appropriation

The program is appropriated annually through Estimates.

Fiscal year for terms and conditions

2010-11

Link to departmental result(s)

The Canadian environment is protected from harmful substances

Link to the department’s Program Inventory

Substances and Waste Management

Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program

Canada is a signatory to this organization and is thus bound by the requirements of the international convention, including the obligation to pay the assessed contribution.

Expected results

Advanced Canada’s management of chemicals through strengthened knowledge networks, improved efficiency by avoiding duplicative work and cost savings through leveraging policy, scientific and technical expertise of other developed nations in areas of mutual interest. More specifically, the assessed contribution supported the development of tools and methodology for chemicals testing to be adopted by all OECD countries, leading to international harmonization and mutual acceptance of data.

Fiscal year of last completed evaluation

2019-2020 (Evaluation of Chemicals Management Plan)

Decision following the results of last evaluation

N/A

Fiscal year of next planned evaluation

(Evaluation of Chemicals Management Plan scheduled for 2024-25). The scope of the evaluation will be determined in consultation with program partners.

General targeted recipient groups

Convention on the OECD, Environment Directorate

Initiatives to engage applicants and recipients

N/A

General information

Start date

2010-11

End date

2022-23

Type of transfer payment

Contribution

Type of appropriation

The program is appropriated annually through Estimates.

Fiscal year for terms and conditions

2010-11

Link to departmental result(s)

Canadians use authoritative weather and related information to make decisions about their health and safety.

Link to the department’s Program Inventory

Weather and Environmental Observations, Forecasts and Warnings.

Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program

Canada has been a member of the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) since 1950 as one of the initial signatories to the convention. The annual assessed contribution is based on the U.N. Scale as agreed to every three years by the U.N. General Assembly and adapted, as is normal practice, to accommodate the varying membership of U.N. organizations.

As a signatory to the WMO Convention, Canada is required to pay an assessed contribution in order to remain a member. Our contribution to WMO gives Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) access to global meteorological observations and research, which is essential to improving domestic meteorological services, and would be prohibitively expensive to achieve on our own.

Canada's assessed rate is 2.88% of the WMO Budget (which is calculated as approximately CHF1,867,141 (Swiss Francs) for this financial period).

The amount in Canadian dollars is based on current exchange rates. It should be noted that, as exchange rates fluctuate, the amount provided in Canadian funds will also fluctuate.

Expected results

The associated Departmental result indicator is the index of the timeliness and accuracy of severe weather warnings on a scale of 0 to 10, with a target of 8.4 for the 2022-23 to 2024-25 period.

WMO supports the Meteorological Service of Canada (along with other National

Meteorological and Hydrological Services (NMHS)) in their provision of vital weather, water, climate and air quality information, and in meeting international commitments in the areas of disaster risk reduction, climate change mitigation and adaptation, and sustainable development.

Fiscal year of last completed evaluation

2021-2022 (Evaluation of the Weather Observations, Forecasts and Warnings Program)

Decision following the results of last evaluation

Continuation. Management developed an action plan to address all recommendations outlined in the Evaluation report.

Fiscal year of next planned evaluation

There is an evaluation of the Weather and Environmental Services program planned for 2026-27. The scope of the evaluation will be determined in collaboration with program partners.

General targeted recipient groups

World Meteorological Organization

Initiatives to engage applicants and recipients

As a signatory to the WMO Convention, Canada is required to pay an assessed contribution in order to remain a member. Our contribution to WMO gives ECCC access to global meteorological research, which is essential to improving domestic meteorological services, and would be prohibitively expensive to achieve on our own.

Additionally, Canada engages with the WMO at many levels:

• Canada’s Permanent Representative to WMO is from ECCC;
• Canada is a member of WMO Executive Council as well as the Services and Infrastructure Commissions;
• ECCC has members of the Policy Advisory Committee (PAC) and Financial Advisory Committee (FINAC), providing a window into the risks for WMO and to be part of developing strategies to mitigate these risks and ensure WMO’s financial position remain strong; and
• ECCC has numerous staff participate at the “expert level” on various expert teams, working groups, etc.

This does not change on an annual basis.

General information

Start date

2018-19

End date

Includes Treasury Board Submissions for Meteorological Service of Canada (MSC) Renewal and Hydrological (both sunset in 2022-23); as well as ongoing A-Base funding.

Type of transfer payment

Contribution

Type of appropriation

The program is appropriated annually through Estimates.

Fiscal year for terms and conditions

2018-19

Link to departmental result(s)

Canadians use authoritative weather and related information to make decisions about their health and safety.

Link to the department’s Program Inventory

Weather and Environmental Observations, Forecasts and Warnings (Weather); Hydrological Services (Hydro)

Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program

The purpose is to encourage and support individuals and organizations engaged in activities that enable Canadians to access, understand, and use information on changing weather, water, climate and air quality conditions.

Expected results

Canadians use authoritative weather and related information to make decisions about their health and safety

Fiscal year of last completed evaluation

2020-2021 (Evaluation of Weather Observations, Forecasts and Warnings)

Decision following the results of last evaluation

Continuation. Management developed an action plan to address the all recommendations outlined in the Evaluation report.

Fiscal year of next planned evaluation

2022-2023 (Evaluation of National Hydrological Services) - ongoing

2025-2026 (Evaluation of the Weather Observations, Forecasts and Warnings Program)

General targeted recipient groups

Domestic or international not-for-profit organizations; domestic or international Indigenous organizations; domestic or international research, academic and educational institutions; Canadian or foreign individuals; provincial, territorial, municipal and local governments and provincial Crown corporations.

Initiatives to engage applicants and recipients

Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) is a mix of directed and application based. MSC is committed to explore opportunities for innovative approaches to delivering the Grants & Contributions and explore novel projects, including the engagement of Indigenous peoples and communities.

General information

Start date

1994-95

End date

Ongoing

Type of transfer payment

Grant

Type of appropriation

The program is appropriated annually through Estimates.

Fiscal year for terms and conditions

2018-19

Link to departmental result(s)

Canada contributes to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and increasing climate resilience globally

Link to the department’s Program Inventory

International Climate Change Action

Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program

The purpose of the Grant is:

• (1) to pay up to 20% of Canada’s mandatory annual contribution to the Multilateral Fund for the Implementation of the Montreal Protocol (MLF); and
• (2) to reimburse the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) for the differential administrative costs associated with locating the MLF Secretariat in Montreal as compared to UNEP Headquarters in Nairobi.

The MLF assists developing countries in complying with their obligations under the Montreal Protocol. Global Affairs Canada pays the remaining 80% of Canada’s contribution.

Expected results

The MLF will continue to assist developing countries in complying with their obligations under the Montreal Protocol with a view to reducing emissions of ozone-depleting and/or global-warming substances. In this way, from 2022-23 to 2024-25, the main expected results are the continued gradual elimination of hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs) and the gradual reduction of hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) in developing countries. This will be measured in relation to the Montreal Protocol’s HCFC phase-out and HFC phase-down targets during this period, namely:

• A 67.5% reduction in consumption and production of HCFCs by 2025, relative to each country’s baseline for compliance (average 2009-2010 consumption and production);
• A freeze in consumption and production of HFCs by 2024 for Group 1 countries, relative to these countries’ baselines for compliance (average 2020-2022 consumption and production);
• Progress towards a freeze (by 2028) in consumption and production of HFCs for Group 2 countries, relative to these countries’ baselines for compliance (average 2024-2026 consumption and production).

With respect to Canada hosting the MLF Secretariat in Montreal, it is expected that paying the differential administrative costs will ensure the efficient functioning of the Secretariat, continue to contribute to demonstrating Canadian leadership on environment and climate change, as well as Montreal’s global reputation as an international city, and generate benefits to the Canadian economy flowing from the activities of the Secretariat’s staff and from frequently holding Montreal Protocol-related international meetings in Montreal.

Fiscal year of last completed evaluation

Not applicable

Decision following the results of last evaluation

Not application

Fiscal year of next planned evaluation

Not applicable; this Grant is not subject to a mandatory evaluation every five years for its continuation as per the Treasury Board’s Policy on Results.

General targeted recipient groups

The only eligible recipient of this grant is UNEP, as host and administrator of the MLF.

Initiatives to engage applicants and recipients

There are no applicants. The grant is paid to UNEP as host and administrator of the MLF.

General information

Start date

2019-20

End date

2025-26

Type of transfer payment

Grant

Type of appropriation

The program is appropriated annually through Estimates.

Fiscal year for terms and conditions

2019-20

Link to departmental result(s)

Support Clean Technology and Zero Plastic Waste Agenda

Link to the department’s Program Inventory

Substance and Waste Management

Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program

Incentivize clean technology development and innovation to reduce plastic waste.

Expected results

Innovation is essential to advancing a more circular economy for plastics in Canada, keeping them in the economy and out of the environment. The Canadian Plastics Innovation Challenges are part of Canada’s comprehensive agenda to help move towards zero plastic waste. Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) is the sole sponsor of six of these challenges, providing funding to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to incentivize the development of technology to address plastic pollution and waste. In Phase 1, successful applicants may receive up to $150,000 to develop a proof of concept. If accepted into Phase 2, SMEs may receive an additional $1 million to develop a working prototype. In 2022-23, ECCC plans to award grants to one Phase 2 (prototype) project on sustainable alternatives to plastic packaging, award up to three Phase 1 projects (proofs of concept) on mitigating the release of microplastics from tire wear, and launch a new Plastics Challenge.

Fiscal year of last completed evaluation

A Horizontal Evaluation of Federal Leadership Towards Zero Plastic Waste in Canada Initiative was presented to PMERC in September 2022. The scope of the evaluation did not directly concern Innovation Solutions Canada however, the report did consider the role that grants and contributions play in the success of the initiative.

Decision following the results of last evaluation

The Horizontal Evaluation of the Federal Leadership Towards Zero Plastic Waste in Canada Initiative found there was a need for federal efforts to promote consistent plastic waste management across the country. It has also found that overall implementation has gone well and many planned activities are on track or completed. However, the evaluation also found that departments underspent on activities between 2019-20 and 2020-21, although COVID-19 was considered a factor in causing delays. The evaluation found significant evidence that scientific information on plastics was generated, but found there was need for additional data was needed to assess the programs impact on diverting plastic waste from landfills.

Continuation. Management developed an action plan to address all recommendations outlined in the Evaluation report.

Fiscal year of next planned evaluation

N/A

General targeted recipient groups

Canadian Small and Medium Size Enterprises

Initiatives to engage applicants and recipients

Protocols were followed, invitation to submit Phase 2 proposals were initiated, applications evaluated and one grant will be awarded. Monthly meetings occurred with recipients and continue with Phase 2 winners.

General information

Start date

2010-11

End date

N/A

Type of transfer payment

Grants

Type of appropriation

The program is appropriated annually through Estimates.

Fiscal year for terms and conditions

2010-11

Link to departmental result(s)

Canadians use authoritative weather and related information to make decisions about their health and safety.

Link to the department’s Program Inventory

Weather and Environmental Observations, Forecasts and Warnings.

Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program

The purpose is to encourage and support individuals and organizations engaged in activities that enable Canadians to access, understand, and use information on changing weather, water, climate and air quality conditions.

Expected results

For the 2022-23 to 2024-25 period, we expect ECCC to directly benefit from these supplements because they are low risk, and they encourage and help foster young Canadians to study and pursue careers in the atmospheric sciences.

Fiscal year of last completed evaluation

2020-2021 (Evaluation of the Weather Observations, Forecasts and Warnings Program)

Decision following the results of last evaluation

Continuation. Management developed an action plan to address all recommendations outlined in the Evaluation report.

Fiscal year of next planned evaluation

2025-2026 (Evaluation of the Weather Observations, Forecasts and Warnings Program)

General targeted recipient groups

Domestic or international not-for-profit organizations; domestic or international Indigenous organizations; domestic or international research, academic and educational institutions; Canadian or foreign individuals; provincial, territorial, municipal and local governments and provincial Crown corporations.

Initiatives to engage applicants and recipients

• This ECCC Grant Program assists the applicants with undertaking the projects that will connect to ECCC’s Atmospheric and Meteorological Graduate and Undergraduate supplements. Applicants review the criteria on the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada Website, where they can determine their eligibility. In addtion, contact details to directly interact with a Departmental Representative for questions, concerns, issues or clarification are available.
• Assistant Deputy Minister-Level Notification letters are drafted to inform the applicants of their grant award along with other relevant paperwork (Vendor Template, Direct Deposit).

General information

Start date

1997

End date

Ongoing

Type of transfer payment

Contribution

Type of appropriation

The program is appropriated annually through Estimates.

Fiscal year for terms and conditions

2019

Link to the department’s Program Inventory

Community Eco-Action

Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program

Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) manages Science Horizons Youth Internship Program (Science Horizons). It is funded through the Government of Canada’s Youth Employment and Skills Strategy (YESS), led by Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC). Programs under the YESS aim to demonstrate federal leadership by investing in the skills required to meet the needs of the knowledge economy, facilitate the transition of skilled young people to a rapidly changing labour market, and promote the benefits of advanced studies.

Science Horizons is designed to increase youth employment in the environmental field across Canada. Science Horizons provides a wage subsidy of up to $25,000 and an additional financial support of up to $5,000 in skills development, training and wrap-around services to eligible employers to hire a recent Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics (STEM) graduate. Two year contribution agreements are currently in place (2021-2023) for six delivery agents, who administer the program, including all activities related to matching eligible employers and interns.

Expected results

Create up to 453 internships in 2022-2023, 97 internships in 2023-2024 and 97 internships in 2024-2025 and have 86% of past interns either obtain employment or return to advanced-level studies in STEM fields.

Fiscal year of last completed evaluation

2019-2020 (Horizontal Evaluation of the Youth Employment Strategy - Career Focus Stream)

Decision following the results of last evaluation

Not applicable, no recommendation to address for Science Horizons Youth Internship Program in the 2019-2020 Horizontal Evaluation of the Youth Employment Strategy – Career Focus Stream. See the following link for more details.

Fiscal year of next planned evaluation

2024-2025 (Horizontal Evaluation of the Youth Employment and Skills Strategy led by ESDC)

General targeted recipient groups

The direct recipients of Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) funding are the Delivery Agents administering the Youth Employment and Skills Strategy. Indirectly, recipients of the wage subsidy are for-profit organizations, not-for-profit organizations, municipal governments, Indigenous organizations, and post-secondary educational institutions.

Initiative or engage applicants and recipients

On November 16, 2022, ECCC initiated a call seeking proposals (via internet and social media) from potential recipients to collaborate in the delivery of Science Horizons for the 20231-24 and 2024-25 fiscal years.

Each recipient targets a specific market segment within environmental and clean technology sectors to leverage their own network of organizations and educational institutions to promote Science Horizons. This includes promoting the program through their networks, attending career or job fairs, and participating in conferences and networking events with organizations in the environmental and clean technology industry.

In addition, ECCC promotes the program annually to applicants (both employers and interns) through Ministerial Announcements in coordination with social media communications and the program’s departmental internet site to share success stories on employers and interns who have benefitted from the program.