2023-24 Departmental Results Report: Details on transfer payment programs

Assessed contribution to the Commission for Environmental Cooperation

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: 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 Environment and Climate 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). There are no repayable contributions.

Results achieved: For the period of 2022-23 to 2024-25, the CEC is expected to deliver on the 2021-25 CEC Strategic Plan.

The 2021-25 CEC Strategic Plan serves to guide trilateral cooperation over the course of the next five years and establishes the following areas of mutual interest:

• Clean Air, Land, and Water
• Preventing and Reducing Pollution in the Marine Environment
• Circular Economy and Sustainable Materials Management
• Shared Ecosystems and Species
• Resilient Economies and Communities
• Effective Enforcement of Environmental Laws.

The Results achieved for the period of 2022-23 to 2024-25 are as follows:

• As 2023 Chair, Canada hosted Mexico and the United States at the 2023 Council Session in Victoria, BC, under the theme of Urban and Indigenous Approaches to Climate Adaptation.
• The CEC successfully launched two initiatives at the 2023 Council Session: (1) Climate Adaptation Champions Initiative, which will design and launch a partnership of cities across North America to share knowledge and best practices on climate adaptation, and (2) the Reaching Horizon 2030, an Environmental Outlook for North American Cooperation that will identify emerging environmental challenges in the lead up to 2030.
• The Secretariat successfully launched five trilateral projects, to be implemented over the two calendar years: (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 launched two additional initiatives, which include support on Fast Mitigation Strategies to reduce short-lived climate pollutants and on Food Loss and Waste.
• In 2024, Canada will attend the 31^st Council Session hosted by the United States in Wilmington, North Carolina on the theme of Strengthening Environmental Justice through Community Empowerment.

Findings of audits completed in 2023-24: N/A – No internal audits were completed in 2023-24

Findings of evaluations completed in 2023-24: N/A – No evaluation completed in 2023-24.

Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2023-24: N/A

Financial information (dollars):

Explanation of variances: N/A

Assessed contribution to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES)

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 the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora and is bound by its requirements, including the obligation to pay the assessed contribution. There are no repayable contributions.

Results achieved: The Terms and Conditions establish a result 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. Canada met its obligation to the Convention by paying it’s assessed annual contribution in 2023-24 and, for 2023-24 to 2025-26, 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 (COP).

In June 2023, Canada successfully participated in the meetings of the CITES Scientific Committees (Plants Committee and Animals Committee), and in November 2023, Canada actively participated in the meeting of the CITES Standing Committee.  In addition, Canada has been actively engaged this year in several CITES intersessional working groups, providing advice and views on various CITES scientific and technical matters, and taking on leadership roles as Co-Chairs on a number of these working groups.

Findings of audits completed in 2023-24: N/A – No internal audits were completed in 2023-24

Findings of evaluations completed in 2023-24: N/A – No evaluation completed in 2023-24

Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2023-24: 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.

Financial information (dollars):

Explanation of variances:

To make effective use of funding availability, in addition to paying Canada’s 2023-24 contribution of $229,388,22 CAD, we prepaid Canada’s 2024-25 contribution of $229,177,04 CAD upon receiving the invoice from the CITES Convention.

Note that the 2023-24 planned spending figure was based upon CITES USD contribution for the next 3 years and is subject to currency exchange fluctuations.

Assessed contribution to the Convention on Wetlands of International Importance (Ramsar Convention)

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 payment of assessed contributions is an obligation of the Parties based on terms agreed to at the Convention of the Parties. There are no repayable contributions.

Results achieved: 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 the Percentage of Canadian interventions and/or negotiating positions that are adopted by the Conference of the Contracting Parties.

In 2023-24, Canada met its obligations to the Convention by paying its assessed annual contribution at the level agreed by the Ramsar Convention Conference of the Parties.

In 2023-24, Canada participated the 62^nd meeting of the Ramsar Standing Committee and contributed to advancing the intersessional work of the Convention through serving as co-chair of the working group developing the 5^th Strategic plan.

Findings of audits completed in 2023-24: N/A – No internal audits were completed in 2023-24

Findings of evaluations completed in 2023-24: N/A – No evaluation completed in 2023-24

Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2023-24: Environment and Climate Change Canada engages the recipient through established governance mechanisms.

Financial information (dollars):

Explanation of variances:

To make effective use of funding availability, in addition to paying Canada’s 2023-24 contribution of $190,000 CAD, we prepaid Canada’s 2024-25 contribution of $197,700 CAD upon receiving a provisional invoice from the Convention on Wetlands.

Note that the 2023-24 planned spending figure was based upon RAMSAR CHF contribution for the next 3 years and is subject to currency exchange fluctuations.

Assessed contribution to the International Network for Bamboo and Rattan (INBAR)

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 Environment and Climate 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. There are no repayable contributions.

Results achieved: 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. Ongoing projects have led to policy outcomes for restoring degraded land and forest in Cameroon, increased resilience to climate change for small rural farmers in Colombia, Peru and Ecuador, and enhanced climate change mitigation and adaptation benefits by developing inclusive and sustainable industrial and small and medium-sized enterprises’ bamboo value chains resulting in enhanced livelihood opportunities, food security, and environmental management in East Africa. 

Findings of audits completed in 2023-24: N/A – No internal audits were completed in 2023-24

Findings of evaluations completed in 2023-24: N/A – No internal evaluation by ECCC has been completed in 2023-24.

Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2023-24: Through Canada’s Embassy in Beijing, where INBAR is headquartered, Canada participates in the Annual General Meeting and other regular meetings of the organization.

Financial information (dollars):

Explanation of variances: N/A

Assessed contribution to the Minamata Convention on Mercury

Start date: 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. There are no repayable contributions.

Results achieved: 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 the latest meeting in October 2023, the COP agreed to the budget and programme of work for 2024 and 2025, including support for the first effectiveness evaluation of the treaty (a multi-year scientific and policy initiative undertaken by the COP to assess the success of the treaty), national reporting, and communication and outreach activities.  A budget and programme of work for the 2026-27 biennium will be discussed at the next COP meeting scheduled for October 2025. 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.
• Actual results: Target met. Canada’s assessed contribution for 2024 was paid on January 29, 2024. Canada’s assessed contribution for 2023 was paid in advance of the target on November 28, 2022.

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.
• Actual results: Target met. During the intersessional period preceding COP5, Canada participated on expert groups on mercury releases and mercury waste and was also a member of the scientific group to support the first effectiveness evaluation of the treaty. Following COP5, Canada has also nominated a member to the effectiveness evaluation group and prepared a submission to the Secretariat of the Minamata Convention on Canada’s approach to preventing the trade of mercury in cosmetics. Canada will participate in Minamata COP6 from October 8 to 12, 2025.

Findings of audits completed in 2023-24: N/A – No internal audits were completed in 2023-24

Findings of evaluations completed in 2023-24: N/A – No internal evaluation by ECCC has been completed in 2023-24.

Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2023-24: 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.

Financial information (dollars):

Explanation of variances:

Canada’s assessed contribution for 2023 was paid in advance of the target on November 28, 2022. The Terms and Conditions for payment of Canada’s assessed contribution to the Minamata Convention on Mercury sets out a maximum funding allocation of $200,000 annually. The amount of Canada’s actual invoice fluctuates from year to year based on the budget agreed to by the Conference of the Parties. UNEP does not send the invoice for the upcoming calendar year until the third quarter of the relevant fiscal year. As a result of this timing and the possibility of currency fluctuations due to the requirement to pay Canada’s assessed contribution in U.S. funds, it is difficult to avoid a variance in the forecasted amount versus actual amount spent. Program staff will do their best to ensure additional funds are released as soon as possible after the invoice is received and paid, so this money is available to fund other priorities.

Assessed contribution to the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development

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 bound by the requirements of the international convention, including the obligation to pay the assessed contribution. There are no repayable contributions.

Results achieved: 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 members countries from the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), leading to international harmonization and mutual acceptance of data. In addition, a new OECD legal instrument and guidance material relating to chemical accident prevention, preparedness and response were developed and published.

Findings of audits completed in 2023-24: N/A – No internal audits were completed in 2023-24

Findings of evaluations completed in 2023-24: A horizontal evaluation of the Chemicals Management Plan, led by Health Canada, has been completed during winter 2024. Opportunities were identified for both organisations to improve, with four recommendations:

• Review program priorities and align resource allocation across all thematic work areas based on reviewed and renewed priorities;
• Address the ongoing need for data and improving data infrastructure;
• Improve risk communications to people in Canada, and support technical communication across different partner and stakeholder groups;
• Develop and maintain engagement across different external partner and stakeholder groups, including Indigenous partners.

Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2023-24: N/A

Financial information (dollars):

Explanation of variances:

The assessed contribution amount is established yearly by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) based on a formula which includes OECD members’ Gross Domestic Product, the number of members in the organization, and interest rates. The OECD issues a call-out letter every year in February with payment due by March 31^st. In 2023-24, the contribution amount in the call-out letter surpassed traditionally allotted funding due to the factors listed above.

Assessed contribution to the World Meteorological Organization

Start date: 2010-11

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): 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 United Nations (U.N.) Scale of Assessments 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 to remain a member. Our contribution to WMO gives ECCC access to global hydrometeorological data including observational, forecasting, warning, and research information, which is essential to produce and deliver hydrometeorological services and would be prohibitively expensive to achieve on our own. For example, without data obtained through WMO, it would be impossible for ECCC to issue weather forecasts beyond 1–2-day horizon. WMO membership also provides Canada with an opportunity to influence the establishment of international standards related to weather, water, and climate. Canada's assessed rate is 2.59% of the WMO Budget, which is calculated as approximately CHF1,800,512 (Swiss Francs) annually.

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. There are no repayable contributions.

Results achieved: The associated Departmental result indicator for Weather is the index of the timeliness and accuracy of severe weather warnings on a scale of 0 to 10. The target of 8.4 was exceeded in 2023-24, with a result achieved of 8.7 (three-year rolling average).

WMO supports ECCC, 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.

Findings of audits completed in 2023-24: N/A – No internal audits were completed in 2023-24

Findings of evaluations completed in 2023-24: N/A – No evaluation completed in 2023-24

Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2023-24: As a signatory to the WMO Convention, Canada is required to pay annually an assessed contribution to remain a member. Our contribution to WMO gives ECCC access to global hydrometeorological information, which is essential to improving domestic hydrometeorological services, and would be prohibitively expensive to achieve on our own. WMO membership also provides Canada with an opportunity to influence global standards that apply to NMHS.

Canada engages with the WMO at many levels, from technical experts to senior officials:

• Canada’s Permanent Representative to WMO represents Canada at the World Meteorological Congress every four years. The representative is also expected to become a member of the Executive Council (EC), WMO’s highest governance body between sessions of Congress, participate under EC, in the Policy Advisory Committee, and participate in meetings of the WMO Financial Advisory Committee.
• In addition, Canada contributes leadership and technical positions in WMO’s Infrastructure and Services Commissions, Research Board, as well as in EC’s Audit and Oversight Committee. Overall, this includes the contribution of approximately 100 ECCC and other Canadian experts to various technical working groups and governance bodies.

Financial information (dollars):

Explanation of variances:

Advance payment for the membership fees of 2024-25 was made in 2023-24 for $2,767,628. The amount of $5,319,999 includes the 2-year assessed contribution for 2023-24 and 2024-25.

Canada Nature Fund

Start date: 2018

End date: 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 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: Species at Risk; Habitat Conservation and Protection.

Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program:

The Canada Nature Fund is a critical tool for advancing actions that conserve and protect Canada’s habitat and biodiversity.

The Canada Nature Fund will conserve, establish, and 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 and 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. There are no repayable contributions.

Results achieved:

The Canada Nature Fund supported and furthered collaboration and momentum for conserving Canada’s biodiversity and habitat in 2023-24. The fund demonstrated the federal government’s leadership in enabling the establishment of protected and conserved areas, and preventing, protecting, and recovering species at risk.

Projects contributed to the departmental Core Responsibility of Conserving Nature and contributed to the following key results through two Streams: Species and Spaces.

1. Species Stream:

• Under the Priority Species Initiative, 11 conservation agreements with provinces, territories, and Indigenous partners, and 33 projects addressed six priority species: Boreal Caribou, Peary Caribou, Barren-ground Caribou, Southern Mountain Caribou, Greater Sage-grouse, and Wood Bison, totalling $36.5 million in investments. Boreal and southern mountain caribou conservation and recovery efforts have been substantially advanced through s.11 agreements and the associated provision of dedicated funding by federal, provincial and territorial governments. These s.11 conservation agreements facilitate collaboration with provinces and territories, as well as with Indigenous communities, to take actions to support the conservation and recovery of boreal caribou and southern mountain caribou via cooperation and investment in key conservation measures such as range planning, population monitoring, habitat protection and restoration, and population and habitat management. So far, conservation measures have been initiated and accelerated through the direction provided within s.11 agreements, including through the establishment of s.11 technical working groups. There is also increased communication between the federal, provincial and territorial governments and other partners to support and work toward the recovery and conservation of the six FPT priority species. Additionally 75 projects addressed 23 other priority species including: Chimney Swift, Bicknell’s Thrush, Leach's Storm Petrel, Marbled Murrelet, Piping Plover (Circumcinctus and Melodus subspecies), Red Knot (Rufa subspecies), Roseate Tern, Whooping Crane,  Little Brown Myotis, Northern Myotis, Tri-colored Bat, Polar Bear, Spotted Owl (Caurina subspecies), Western Chorus Frog (Great Lakes / St. Lawrence - Canadian Shield population), Northern Goshawk (Laingi subspecies), Burrowing Owl, Grizzly Bear, Vancouver Island Marmot, Caribou (Eastern and Atlantic-Gaspésie Populations), Monarch Butterfly, Whitebark Pine, Powershiek Skipperling, totalling $14M in investments.Projects looked to address knowledge gaps identified in schedule of studies, implement on the ground conservation actions through habitat conservation and reduction of threats to the species. 
• Under the Priority Places Initiative, $20.1M was invested in 128 projects in 12 Priority Places identified collaboratively by federal, provincial and territorial governments. The projects advanced implementation of priority on-the-ground recovery actions for species at risk including restoration, education and outreach, monitoring, implementing beneficial management actions and securement of habitats and ecosystems important to species at risk and other biodiversity. Additionally, $6.1M was invested in 17 complementary Community-Nominated Priority Places for Species at Risk projects to support multi-partner initiatives across Canada, where there are opportunities to protect and recover species at risk and their habitat through multi-species and ecosystem-based conservation action.
• Under the International Threats Initiative, $157,000 was provided to address threats outside of Canada to the recovery of migratory birds that spend part of their annual life cycle in Canada. Three projects were funded to address threats including threats to grasslands birds, shorebirds and landbirds. Results include outreach to landowners, local communities, and hunters, development of communication and outreach products, training of local individuals and community leaders, identifying key sites for protection, and habitat conservation planning.
• Under the Indigenous Partnerships Initiative, $21.7M was invested in 123 projects that supported Indigenous leadership in species at risk conservation and enhancing relationships with Indigenous Peoples. Projects supported Priority Species recovery (e.g., caribou and wood bison); wildlife health monitoring; involvement of Indigenous priorities in multi-species conservation planning; and capacity support to meet ECCC’s consultation and cooperation targets for species at risk. The funding also supported mapping and stewarding species at risk and species of cultural significance, and restoring their habitats on Indigenous territories in ways that consider the future interests of Indigenous Peoples.

2. Spaces Stream:

• Under the Indigenous Guardians Initiative, $19.38M was invested in 107 projects that provided First Nations, Inuit, and Métis with greater opportunity to exercise responsibility in stewardship of their traditional lands, waters, and ice.
• Under the Indigenous Protected and Conserved Areas and other Protected and Conserved Areas Initiative, $59.1M was invested in 91 Indigenous-Led Area-Based Conservation and target projects to advance the establishment of protected areas or other effective conservation measures in Canada. This land securement contributes to Canada’s area-based conservation target of 30% of lands and freshwater conserved by 2030.
• Under the Nature Agreement Funding
  • $1.4M flowed to the Yukon Government and supported Indigenous preparedness for land use planning and associated work towards Indigenous Protected and Conserved Area (IPCA) establishment for 2030. Under the Canada-Yukon Nature Agreement, $6.2M was disbursed to the Yukon Government which advanced work towards nature-related commitments, including engagement with Indigenous groups. The Aullaviat/Aungunairvik Traditional Conservation Area was created and as per the Nature Agreement, its 8,471 km² were reported to Canadian Protected and Conserved Areas Database (CPCAD) in March 2023.
  • In the Northwest Territories, $1.2M in bridge funding was provided to the Del’ine Got’ine Government in support of the planning and establishment of the Sahtu K'aowe Indigenous Protected and Conserved Area through continued collaboration with partners to determine best means of permanent protection and management of the area, continued development of monitoring activities, and continued training and engagement of Guardians members.
  • ECCC provided $700,000 in bridge funding to the Government of North-West Territories (GNWT) to support three Indigenous and Territorial Protected Areas (Dinàgà Wek’èhodì, Thaidene Nene, and Ts’udé Niliné Tuyeta) for the conservation and protection of wildlife habitat including Species at Risk and Priority Species. With GNWT support, Dehcho communities have held meetings and are participating in protected areas planning.
  • $1.28M was disbursed to the Government of Ontario in 2023-24 as part of a three-year agreement to support the Expanding Protected Areas Project (EPAP). The initiative will expand and enhance Ontario’s protected areas system by regulating outstanding sites previously identified under the Ontario Living Legacy Land Use Strategy (OLL LUS), as well as various acquired land sites (acquired lands).
  • $12.24M was provided for projects within British Columbia in 2023-24 to support the co-development, and implementation of, the Tripartite Framework Agreement on Nature Conservation. This funding supports the Framework Agreement's commitment to protecting at least 30% of BC's land base by 2030, and included the planning and establishment of Indigenous Protected and Conserved Areas (IPCAs); supporting shared stewardship and co-management of natural resources with First Nations through monitoring, assessment and land-use planning activities in regional forums; and habitat protection and management planning, including securement of ecologically valuable habitat for species at risk recovery.
  • $7.65M was provided to the province of Nova Scotia in 2023-24 to support the implementation of the Canada-Nova Scotia Nature Agreement. The funding will support increasing the amount of protected and conserved areas within the province reported to CPCAD, as well as identifying and assessing priority areas with high biodiversity values as part of achieving the province’s goal of at least 20% protected areas by 2030.
• Under the Indigenous distinctions-based Nature Tables Initiative, $3.46M in contributions were provided to the Assembly of First Nations, Inuit Circumpolar Council – Canada, Inuit regions (Makivik Corporation, Nunavut Tunngavik Incorporated, Nunatsiavut Government, and Inuvialuit Regional Corporation), Métis National Council and Governing Members (Métis Nation of Ontario, Métis Nation British Columbia, Métis Nation – Saskatchewan, and the Otipemisiwak Métis Government of the Métis Nation within Alberta). This supported inaugural meetings, finalization of Terms of Reference, and initial discussions on nature priorities for both the First Nations Nature Table and the Strawberry Moon Table on Nature (formerly Métis Nation Nature Table), and ongoing operationalization of the Inuit Nature Table, including work on the Terms of Reference.
• Under the Natural Heritage Conservation Program Initiative, $30M was invested in national, regional and local land trusts to secure over 39,000 hectares of ecologically sensitive lands in Canada’s southern landscape.
• Under the Protected Areas and Other Effective Conservation Measures (OECM) Initiative, $36.9 M was invested in 58 projects to support the creation and effective management of thousands of hectares of protected areas; to restore habitats and reconnect Canadians to nature at select National Wildlife Areas (NWAs) and Migratory Bird Sanctuaries (MBSs); to implement conservation measures on Biosphere Reserves; and to support Key Biodiversity Areas identification, tools and database infrastructures.

Findings of audits completed in 2023-24: N/A – No internal audits were completed in 2023-24

Findings of evaluations completed in 2023-24: N/A – No evaluation completed in 2023-24

However, the following evaluations are currently underway:

• An Evaluation of the Species at Risk Program: a horizontal evaluation led by ECCC that covers a five-year period from 2017-18 to 2021-22. The evaluation examines the themes of Governance, Effectiveness, and Monitoring Progress. The final report is planned to be completed by September 2024.
• An Evaluation of the Habitat Conversation and Protection Program: an evaluation that covers a six-year period from 2018-19 to 2023-24. The evaluation examines the themes of design, delivery, resource allocation and use, performance measurement, results, as well as alignment with ministerial mandate and key international commitments. The findings of this evaluation will be shared through multiple reports that are planned to be completed in 2024-25.

Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2023-24: ECCC engages applicants and recipients under this program in two ways:

• Applicants through applications related to specific program elements.
• Recipients through single or named recipients identified based on their unique ability to address targeted program results.

The Department employs 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 agreement templates have been simplified for more efficiency.

Financial information (dollars):

Explanation of variances:

Enhanced Nature Legacy Funding reprofile to future years from previous years, Low Carbon Emission Fund (LCEF) Funds were transferred into Canada Wildlife Services, Internal reallocations to fund priorities, including individual transfer of $6.5M from Enhanced Nature Legacy to Nature Smart Climate Solutions Fund (Conserving Nature Transfer Payment Program), and normal program operational slippage and the withdrawal or cancellation of some projects in the fourth quarter account for the variance.

Canada's International Climate Finance Program

Start date: 2021-22

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: 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 Environment and Climate Action.

Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program: The purpose is to promote change towards addressing climate change and policies in developing countries. There are no repayable contributions.

Results achieved: In 2021, Canada announced its $5B climate finance commitment over five years to support developing countries to combat climate change, while striving to address biodiversity loss around the world, as well as a number of initiatives supported under the commitment. Canada’s climate finance programming is being implemented by ECCC and Global Affairs Canada. ECCC disbursed $28M in climate finance in 2022-23, in line with the funding profile.

Findings of audits completed in 2023-24: N/A – No internal audits were completed in 2023-24

Findings of evaluations completed in 2023-24: N/A – No evaluation completed in 2023-24.

Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2023-24: ECCC engaged with recipients to ensure appropriate disbursement of funds in-line with strategic and policy objectives. Activities were implemented in-line with planned activities outlined in the Departmental Plan.

Financial information (dollars):

Explanation of variances:

Variances for 2023-24 equal to in-year transfers: $5,979,793 – memorandum of understanding with Global Affairs Canada (Supps C), $5M grant transfer and $1M contribution transfer. As well, International Affairs Branch transferred $247,550 Grant to Environmental Protection Branch contribution, and Environmental Protection Branch transferred $227,343 to International Climate Finance grants.

Conserving Nature

Start date: 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: 2022-23

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.

With potential projects that contribute to other departmental results: Canada contributes to biodiversity conservation domestically and internationally; Canadian greenhouse gas and short-lived climate pollutant emissions are reduced; 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 Environment and Climate Action; Climate Change Adaptation

Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program: to advance conservation of biodiversity and sustainable development; to conserve, protect and recover Canada’s wildlife including species at risk and their habitat, and healthy populations of migratory birds. Actions taken will also contribute to Canada’s Nature 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 (GHG) emissions. There are no repayable contributions.

Results achieved: The Conserving Nature Program supported biodiversity conservation domestically and internationally. Specifically, in 2023-24, projects funded contributed to the departmental Core Responsibility of Conserving Nature, and to the following Departmental Results:

1. 1. Canada’s wildlife and habitat are conserved and protected:

• The Protected Areas and Other Effective Conservation Measures Initiative provided $1.67M to 24 projects to support creating and effectively managing thousands of hectares of marine protected areas, and to connect Canadians to nature at select National Wildlife Areas and Migratory Bird Sanctuaries
• A total of $2.5M in contributions were provided to 7 different partners to support delivery of the North American Waterfowl Management Plan in Canada, which partners were able to leverage to mobilize additional funds (over $3.6M) from federal and non-federal partners in Canada and the United States to create a substantial investment in wetland and upland habitat conservation efforts with 1,112 hectares of Wetlands and Uplands restored and 11,244 hectares permanently secured and enhanced. This is part of the $78M ($57M USD) investment in 2023-24 under the North American Wetlands Conservation Act (NAWCA) for ongoing NAWMP conservation efforts in Canada, at least 75% of which was provided by US sources.
• In 2023-24, a $1,510,139 in contributions were transferred to Wildlife Habitat Canada (WHC) to support its Conservation Grant Program. This amount included $1,390,000 from the Stamp Initiative (consisting of funds from the sale of Canadian Wildlife Habitat Canada Stamps that are affixed to the Migratory Game Bird Hunting Permits) and $125,000 from the National Habitat Conservation. The two contribution agreements, along with funds from other with conservation partners, enabled WHC to fund 37 projects that supported waterfowl and migratory birds by conserving, enhancing, or restoring 39,551 hectares of habitat across Canada and provided approximately 187,660 Canadians the opportunity to engage in conservation and stewardship activities.
• The Wildlife Health initiative provided $459,038 to the Canadian Wildlife Health Cooperative to support national leadership, partnership, investigation, and communications for wildlife health, funding was also provided to support the hiring of a national Avian Influenza Coordinator to address issues related to the avian influenza outbreak in Canada.
• $3,060,000 was provided under the Bird Monitoring and Conservation Initiative to 16 different recipients to advance monitoring and conservation projects related to migratory birds. Collectively, these agreements engage more than 10,000 Citizen Scientists, together with professionals in projects such as breeding bird atlases, marsh bird monitoring, eBird, migration monitoring, Christmas Bird Counts, Motus Wildlife Tracking System, and others, as well as conservation projects addressing selected key threats to migratory birds. These lead to the availability of hundreds of thousands of new data records on bird distribution and movement that are published in open databases such as NatureCounts and WildTrax.
• Under the International Conventions Initiative, $204,035 for 2023-24 contribution agreement funds were provided to the Secretariat of the Convention on Biological Diversity. The contribution supports the following project activities: (1) organizing international dialogues with Indigenous Peoples and local communities and relevant stakeholders, including women and youth, on progress in the implementation of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework and the Gender Plan of Action; (2) further developing the Monitoring Framework and the further development of options for enhanced planning, reporting, and review mechanisms; (3) supporting the evidence based, scientific, and technical guidance on priority targets for implementation under the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, including but not limited to pollution, ecosystem restoration, subsidies and incentives, and terrestrial land use planning; (4) helping facilitate the participation of representatives from least developed countries in meetings of the Convention on Biological Diversity; and (5) supporting efforts to improve the effectiveness of the processes of the Convention.

1. 2. Canada’s species at risk are recovered.

• The Habitat Stewardship Program for Species at Risk awarded over $5.6M in funding to 100 projects to support stewardship activities for the recovery of terrestrial species at risk. More than 140 species at risk were targeted in efforts to protect, secure, or improve their habitat, abate threats to their habitats or individuals, conduct inventories and monitoring, and educate targeted audiences.
• The Species at Risk Partnership on Agricultural Lands Initiative invested over $2.1M in seven new projects and 14 previously approved multi-year projects to conserve and protect species at risk on agricultural lands. The projects contributed to increasing capacity for farmers and ranchers to integrate conservation into farm-level operations through strategic and farm-level conservation action planning, and the implementation of beneficial habitat management practices, as well as piloting innovative approaches to habitat conservation such as tax incentives and term conservation easements.
• $800,000 was provided to NatureServe Canada to work with provincial and territorial Conservation Data Centres to collect, manage and disseminate information on species of conservation concern in Canada ($600,000) and to initiate a 4-year collaborative update with all jurisdictions of the Canadian Terrestrial Ecological Framework ($200,000). Data are used to support Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife (COSEWIC) status assessment process as well as federal and provincial recovery planning under the Species at Risk Act (SARA).

1. 3. Indigenous Peoples are engaged in conservation.

• The Aboriginal Fund for Species at Risk awarded over $2.5M to 53 projects to support the development of Indigenous capacity to participate in the implementation of SARA, and to support and promote the conservation, protection, and recovery of SARA-listed and/or COSEWIC-assessed species, including culturally significant species, and their habitats on Indigenous territories.
• $400,000 was invested in 5 Métis organizations/governments under the Powley Initiative in order to support capacity building in the collection and sharing of migratory game bird harvest data.
• $1.36M was collectively distributed to ten different recipients of the two funding streams under the Oceans Protection Plan: $786,000 for the Community-based Partnerships (CBP) initiative, and $575,000 for the Advancing Evidence-based Decisions (AED) initiative. Both initiatives integrate Indigenous engagement and reconciliation efforts with the aim of enhancing capacity for planning and preparedness for emergencies that might impact migratory birds in marine environments. The CBP initiative funded five community-based migratory bird monitoring programs and the AED initiative funded five agreements to support the co-development of Indigenous-led marine bird/species at risk data collection in high priority areas that have been identified as at-risk from potential marine pollution incidents.
• $144,031 in contributions were provided to the Canadian Wildlife Federation for the Hinterland Who’s Who program. Sixteen public service announcements (PSAs) on the Round-leaved Sundew and the American Eel were distributed to media and made available to Canadians in French and English.
• $791,295 in contributions were provided to Nunavut Tunngavik Incorporated via the Inuit Impact and Benefit Agreement for National Wildlife Areas and Migratory Bird Sanctuaries in the Nunavut Settlement Area to support ecotourism and enable participation in protected areas co-management committees.
• A total of $144,938 in contributions was provided to six National Indigenous Organizations to support them in preparing for and participating in international and domestic meetings related to biodiversity, including those related to the Convention on Biological Diversity.

1. 4. Support actions to reduce Canadian greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions thought projects funding that contributed to helping Canada achieve its 2030 and 2050 GHG emission reduction commitments by using natural climate 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.

• In 2023-24, $116.3M was invested across Canada in 76 emission reductions Nature Smart Climate Solutions Fund projects to reduce GHG emissions through the protection, improved management, and restoration of grassland, wetland, peatland, and forest ecosystems.
• $7.93M was invested in 30 Nature-Smart Climate Solutions Fund indigenous-led projects to support Indigenous organizations and communities to lead capacity building activities and on-the-ground projects for ecological restoration, improved land management, conservation of wetlands, grasslands, and forests. Projects will result in reduced GHG emissions and carbon sequestration, and will maximize co-benefits for biodiversity, climate resiliency and human well-being.

Findings of audits completed in 2023-24: N/A – No internal audits were completed in 2023-24

Findings of evaluations completed in 2023-24: N/A – No evaluation completed in 2023-24

However, the following evaluations are currently underway:

• An Evaluation of Species at Risk Program: a horizontal evaluation, led by ECCC, that covers a five-year period from 2017-18 to 2021-22. The evaluation examines the themes of Governance, Effectiveness and Monitoring Progress. The final report is planned to be completed by September 2024.
• An Evaluation of the Habitat Conversation and Protection Program: an evaluation that covers a six-year period from 2018-19 to 2023-24. The evaluation examines the themes of design, delivery, resource allocation and use, performance measurement, results, as well as alignment with ministerial mandate and with key international commitments. The findings of this evaluation will be shared through multiple reports that are planned to be completedcompeted in 2024-25.

Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2023-24: ECCC engages applicants and recipients under this program in two ways:

• Applicants through applications related to specific program elements
• Recipients through single or named recipients identified based on their unique ability to address targeted program results.

The Department employs 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 agreement templates have been simplified for more efficiency.

Financial information (dollars):

Explanation of variances:

The variance accounts for Budget Adjustments of $250,000 budgets being transfer to Science and Technology Branch to fund priority projects, decreased revenue from the sale of the Migratory Game Bird Hunting permit and its associated habitat conservation stamp, and over $1M being returned to reserves from projects not using full funding or being cancelled.  Additional variance comes from over $13M in internal Canada Wildlife Services transfers to fund priorities, including individual transfer of $6.5M from Enhanced Nature Legacy (Canada Nature Fund Transfer Payment Program) and $5.3M from Science for Delivery and Accountability (Taking Action on Clean Growth and Climate Change Transfer Payment Program) to Nature Smart Climate Solutions Fund.  

Contributions in support of Predicting Weather and Environmental Conditions

Start date: 2018-19

End date: 2033-34

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; Hydrological Services.

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. There are no repayable contributions.

Results achieved: The expected results are linked to the Departmental Result that Canadians use authoritative weather and related information to make decisions about their health and safety.

The associated Departmental Result indicator for Weather is the index of the timeliness and accuracy of severe weather warnings on a scale of 0 to 10. The target of 8.4 was exceeded in 2023-24, with a result achieved of 8.7 (three-year rolling average).

The associated Departmental Result indicator for Hydro is the percentage of program partners rating their satisfaction with ECCC's hydrological services as 8 out of 10 or higher. The target of 80% partner satisfaction was met in 2023-24, with a result achieved of 91%. The National Hydrological Service (NHS) saw significant improvement on this indicator compared to the last reporting period largely due to eliminating most data backlogs that partners had described as limiting satisfaction in the past. In addition, NHS has renewed focus on client relationships and strongly encouraging partners to respond to the satisfaction survey for a more comprehensive understanding of client needs.

Findings of audits completed in 2023-24: N/A – No internal audits were completed in 2023-24

Findings of evaluations completed in 2023-24:

An evaluation of ECCC’s contribution to the Emergency Management System was completed during fall 2023. Findings were provided on themes of relevance, governance, program design and delivery, effectiveness and results achieved, and use of performance information.

Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2023-24: The delivery of this Grant & Contribution is a mix of directed and application-based recipients. ECCC 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.

Financial information (dollars):

Explanation of variances:

Science and Technology Branch converted and spent $168,407 to Core Responsibilities other than Predicting Weather and Environmental Conditions. A $196,889 surplus came from a few projects that were cancelled or could not be completed, which includes $47,208 of lapsed A-base.  

Contributions in Support of the Impact Assessment and Regulatory System

Start date: April 2019

End date: 2027-28

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): 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: Environmental Assessment; Habitat Conservation and Protection; Species at Risk; Migratory Birds and other Wildlife.

Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program: The overall objective of these terms and conditions is to advance ECCC’s contribution to the “Cumulative Effects, Open Science and Evidence” approach. This includes the development of an open science and data platform; supporting regional assessments; conducting strategic assessments, including ones on climate change and biodiversity; and coordinating departmental, federal, and inter-jurisdictional efforts to implement the proposed approach to addressing the cumulative effects of natural resource development. There are no repayable contributions.

Results achieved: Reduced environmental impact from projects subject to Impact Assessment (IA):

• Regional Assessment – Newfoundland Offshore Exploratory Oil:
  In 2023-24, under the Impact Assessment - Cumulative Effects Initiative, $250,000 was invested in three projects in Atlantic Canada for the following recipients: Miawpukek First Nation ($82,500), NunatuKavut Community Council ($85,000), and Qalipu First Nation ($82,500). These projects supported Indigenous capacity to contribute to the Newfoundland offshore exploratory oil regional assessment, contribute to key research on impacts of light pollution on migratory seabirds to inform mitigation measures, and build enhanced regional capacity for conservation planning for Leach’s Storm Petrel, a species that has been assessed as threatened by the Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada.
• Regional Assessment – Ring of Fire, Ontario:
  In 2023-24, for the Ring of Fire Regional Assessment, $313,000 was invested in two contribution agreements with Indigenous organizations to develop and implement Indigenous-led biodiversity surveys and assemble Indigenous Traditional Knowledge related to caribou and other species in the Ring of Fire region of Ontario’s Far North.
• Regional Assessment – St. Lawrence Seaway:
  In 2023-24, under the Impact Assessment - Cumulative Effects Initiative, $148,000 was invested in three projects in Quebec Region for the following recipients: Grand Conseil de la Nation Waban-Aki ($48,000), Mohawk Council of Kanesatake ($50,000), and Mohawk Council of Kahnawake ($50,000). These projects supported Indigenous capacity to contribute to the St. Lawrence Seaway regional assessment (e.g., gathering of Indigenous Knowledge, identification of ecosystem values related to species in the Saint. Lawrence valley and leading to Indigenous-led biodiversity surveys and targeted research). These projects contribute to key research on species at risk nesting in key habitats along the Saint. Lawrence river, such as Bank Swallow and Least Bittern.
• Cumulative Effects – Open Data:
  In 2023-24, under the open data component, funding was provided to three recipients: Birds Canada (BC) ($450,000); NatureServe Canada (NSC) ($1,475,000); and Alberta Biodiversity Monitoring Institute (ABMI) ($335,000). This was the first year of new 5-year agreements with each recipient. All funds were fully expended as allocated including mid-year top-ups to two agreements to expand work that could be accomplished. Collectively, these three recipients manage or coordinate some of the most important collections of wildlife data in Canada, for migratory birds (BSC and ABMI) and for species of conservation concern (NSC), including species listed under the Species at Risk Act. Funding was used to further develop platforms that allow for better management of these data and openly displaying these data at appropriate levels of resolution to match the sensitivity associated with the data, as well as for preparation and analysis of data to support decision making. Specifically, the funds have supported development of the NatureCounts platform to display and manage migratory bird data (BC); WildTrax for managing data collected with a variety of sensors, including acoustic recorders and camera traps that can be used by many different users including government, environmental non-governmental organizations, private citizens, and industry proponents (ABMI), and NatureServe Explorer 2.0 which allows sharing of data on species of conservation concern from all of the Conservation Data Centres in Canada in ways that support decision making for conservation planning and impact assessment (NSC). All platforms are now operational, and in use by a wide range of users including Citizen Scientists, government, researchers and industry proponents. Additional development of new data and features, improved linkages with other platforms, and enhanced decision-support tools will continue over the next 5 years.
• Funding was provided to two recipients under Cumulative Effects – Open Data, namely:
  • University of British Columbia: $50,000 a year over five years (starting in 2022-23) to undertake research to identify the data and/or science publications required to inform cumulative effects assessment in the Prairies and Pacific regions of Canada, specifically as relates to the biophysical environment, based on those regions’ particular characteristics, challenges and opportunities. Results will inform recommendations for future policy decision making and prioritization related to making federal science and data more openly accessible (e.g., through the federal Open Science and Data Platform), as well as future data or research priorities.
  • University of Saskatchewan: $50,000 a year over five years (starting in 2022-23) to undertake research to identify opportunities and make recommendations to increase the amount and accessibility of open data and geospatial information broadly relevant to those wishing to address Indigenous food security and sovereignty through regional-scale cumulative effects assessment in Canada. Specifically, the research purpose is to identify and address biophysical data gaps, allowing Indigenous communities and impact assessment practitioners to more easily and thoroughly evaluate the cumulative impacts of proposed or anticipated developments on regional food systems.
• Cumulative Effects – Research
  In 2023-24, under the Impact Assessment – Cumulative Effects Initiative, ECCC invested $470,000 in Grants and Contributions (G&C) projects that supported research that contributes scientific information to inform cumulative effects assessment on wildlife and habitat. The following G&C projects were approved for 2023-24.
• Trent University: (GCXE22S093: $75,000.00, Spent: TBC, Lapsed: TBC). Implementing genomics-based monitoring to assess the impact of proposed mining activities in the Far North region of Ontario. This was the first year of a 2-year extension for the project to fund the analysis of more samples (5 caribou ranges now systematically surveyed, 2800 samples analysed), collected over a larger geographical area. Results will be used for population and demographic analyses, and to assess the feasibility of assigning individual caribou to their respective Designable Unit (DU) as the basis for a long-term monitoring framework (Boreal Caribou vs Eastern Migratory Caribou).
• Alberta Biodiversity Monitoring Institute: GCXE22S045: $50,000: Spent: $50,000: Lapsed: $0) Study of supplemental feeding as a short-term management action for caribou. Caribou declines across Canada have been attributed to cumulative effects of habitat alteration and climate change, including climate-driven food limitation. This project is testing the effectiveness of supplemental caribou feeding as a potentially effective management lever to sustain small/declining populations until habitat improves. This project was extended for an additional year. Initial trials conducted in 2022-23 in collaboration with the local Indigenous community (Simpcw First Nation) were useful to prioritize the placement and distribution of feeders to maximize access by caribou, and ultimately were successful in attracting caribou to feed without any negative impacts observed. The extension of funding covered a second year of food, helicopter transport to feeding sites, and trail cameras. The observed use of feeders by caribou allowed further refinement of ideal timing and location of feeding supplementation and will inform the design of any additional future feeding trails.
• River Institute – (GCXE23S016: $160,000.00) A project to establish techniques for cumulative effects assessments using wildlife indicator species in support of the St. Lawrence River Regional Assessment was completed. The project was extended for an additional year to completed additional analyses and outreach activities. The project involved the development of a list of Valued Ecosystem Components and a list of suitable bioindicator species that will be useful for monitoring the state of the St. Lawrence River and providing cumulative effects information for the St. Lawrence River Regional Assessment as well as information of importance to local communities and land-users. The report that was developed using a portion of the funds is publicly available: The Great River Rapport. In the second year of the project the species and indicator lists will undergo further review, including peer review.
• Université du Québec à Rimouski – (GCXE24S059: $20,000, Spent: $20,000, Lapsed: NA). This project, spanning over 3 years, aims to improve knowledge on best practices for habitat restoration and conservation offsets tailored to the needs of boreal caribou in the context of cumulative impact assessments for resource extraction activities, with a particular focus in eastern Canada. This research seeks to evaluate the application of a diversity of approaches and tools (utilized outside and within ECCC) for habitat restoration and offsetting. It is meant to take an objective look at the tools currently in use (or being developed) in this rapidly evolving field, to validate species-specific information with experts in the field, to explore the different tools “under the hood”, and to evaluate the benefits of using multi-tool approaches. The first year of funding primarily involved planning, recruitment of employees and students, and marked the onset of a broad-scale literature review.

Findings of audits completed in 2023-24: N/A – No internal audits were completed in 2023-24

Findings of evaluations completed in 2023-24: N/A – No evaluation undertaken in 2023-24

Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2023-24: Reduced environmental impact from projects subject to IA:

• Some Grants and Contributions funds were used to support an academic institution (GCXE23S018: Mikisew Cree First Nation (University of British Columbia) in engaging three First Nations (Kitasoo Xai’xais, Nuxalk, and Wuikinuxv Nations). Engagement activities included meetings in communities to establish trust and co-develop research priorities with the First Nations’ Stewardship Authorities, community visits to engage Knowledge Holders, trauma-informed facilitations training for Stewardship staff, virtual workshops and in person workshops with Knowledge Holders, as well as meetings to share project outcomes and results.
• Regional Assessment
  • Ring of Fire – For work related to Indigenous partner led projects Continued activities will include regular virtual or in-person (per request) meetings to discuss progress, new project ideas, field component logistics data collection, monitoring work and new project ideas.
  • St. Lawrence Seaway – For work related to Indigenous partner led projects and training. Continued activities will include regular virtual or in-person (per request) meetings to discuss progress, new project ideas, field component logistics, virtual or in-person training, data collection and monitoring work.
• Open data: The project manager within ECCC met regularly (approximately monthly) by video conference with each of the Recipients of the Cumulative Effects and Open Data funding stream to discuss progress, accomplishments, challenges, and opportunities related to the activities being supported under these agreements.
• Cumulative Effects – Research: The project managers of various contribution agreements met regularly by video conference with each of the Recipients of the Cumulative Effects funding stream on research projects to discuss progress, accomplishments, challenges, and opportunities related to the activities being supported under these agreements.

Financial information (dollars):

Explanation of variances:

$906,000 transfer received from Canada Nature Fund and $75,000 of funds transferred to the Science and Technology Branch, Internal reallocations, and normal program operational slippage and the withdrawal or cancellation of some projects in the fourth quarter account for the variance.

Grant for the Implementation of the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer

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: 2022-23

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 Environment and Climate Action.

Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program:

• To pay up to 20% of Canada’s mandatory annual contribution to the Multilateral Fund for the Implementation of the Montreal Protocol (MLF);
• 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. There are no repayable contributions.

Results achieved: The MLF continued 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, the main expected results:

• Continued gradual elimination of hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs)
• Gradual reduction of hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) in developing countries.

Based on latest MLF progress report available, to date the MLF has supported the elimination of 292,086 tonnes of ozone-depleting substances consumption, 521,729 mtCO₂eq (megatonnes of carbon dioxide equivalents) of HFC consumption, and 205,377 tonnes of ozone-depleting substances production.

The MLF has also supported positive change in national policies, legislation, and regulatory systems, and contributed to substantial global-scale environmental, human health and climate change mitigation impacts.

Canada’s contribution has also allowed the MLF Secretariat to operate successfully in Montreal since the Fund’s inception and paying the differential administrative costs ensured the efficient functioning of the Secretariat which contributed to demonstrating Canadian leadership and Montreal’s global reputation as an international city, while generating benefits to the Canadian economy flowing from the activities of the Secretariat’s staff and from the holding of frequent Montreal Protocol-related international meetings in Montreal.

Findings of audits completed in 2023-24: N/A – No internal audits were completed in 2023-24

Findings of evaluations completed in 2023-24: N/A – No evaluation undertaken in 2023-24

Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2023-24: There are no applicants.

The grant is paid to UNEP as host and administrator of the MLF.

Financial information (dollars):

Explanation of variances:

$227,344 was transferred to International Climate Finance grants.

Grants in support of Innovation Solutions Canada (ISC)

Start date: 2018-19

End date: Ongoing

Type of transfer payment: Grant

Type of appropriation: The program is appropriated annually through Estimates.

Fiscal year for terms and conditions: 2022-23

Link to departmental results: The Canadian environment is protected from harmful substances.

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 and pollution. There are no repayable contributions.

Results achieved: In 2023-24, ECCC continued support of three Phase 1 grants (proofs of concept) for projects to mitigate the release of microplastics from tire wear. ECCC also launched two new challenges in September and awarded nine Phase 1 grants (proofs of concept) for projects to advance reuse to replace single-use plastics and to improve the collection and/or sorting of plastic film and flexible packaging.

Findings of audits completed in 2023-24: N/A – No internal audits were completed in 2023-24

Findings of evaluations completed in 2023-24: N/A – No evaluation completed in 2023-24

Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2023-24: ECCC continued to engage with previous recipients to ensure continuity of the commercialization of the innovations. ECCC also engaged with the three Phase 1 recipients of the Tire Wear Challenge, which included monthly meetings as well as review of final reports describing results achieved. ECCC evaluated 33 proposals of the Flexible Challenge and 53 proposals of the Reuse Challenge, both launched in September. As a results of these evaluation, a total of 9 grant agreements were awarded in March 2024 for delivery in 2024-25.

Financial information (dollars):

Explanation of variances:

Phase 1 recipients can receive up to $150,000 to develop a proof of concept. Not all the recipients have requested for the full allottable amount and $350,000 was paid out of Operations & Maintenance for Innovation Solutions Canada.

Grants in support of Weather and Environmental Services for Canadians

Start date: 2010-11

End date: Ongoing

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. There are no repayable contributions.

Results achieved: This low risk transfer payment program encouraged and help foster young Canadians to study and pursue careers in the atmospheric sciences, a field of expertise which is central to ECCC.

In total, 8 applications were received during the 2023-24 fiscal year. Following an internal assessment of the 8 applications, 4 were selected to receive the Undergraduate supplement, valued at $1,000 and 2 applications were selected to receive the Post Graduate supplement of $5,000.

Findings of audits completed in 2023-24: N/A – No internal audits were completed in 2023-24

Findings of evaluations completed in 2023-24: N/A - No evaluation completed in 2023-24

Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2023-24:

• This ECCC Grant Program assists applicants with undertaking 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 addition, contact details to directly interact with a departmental representative for questions, concerns, issues, or clarification are available.
• Director General Level Notification letters are drafted to inform the applicants of their grant award along with other relevant paperwork (Vendor Template, Direct Deposit).

Financial information (dollars):

Explanation of variances:

The grant is funded at $44,000 each year. Following an internal evaluation of the 8 applications received, 5 applications were selected to receive the Undergraduate supplement, valued at $1,000 and two applications were selected to receive the Post Graduate supplement of $5,000. As a result of the total number of applicants, $15,000 was spent for fiscal year 2023-24. Remaining $29,000 surplus funds were reallocated to other Branch priorities were lapsed and returned to reserve for prepayments.

Low Carbon Economy Fund

Start date: 2017

End date: 2029

Type of transfer payment: Grant and Contribution

Type of appropriation: The program is appropriated annually through Estimates.

Fiscal year for terms and conditions: 2022-23

Link to departmental result(s): Canadian greenhouse gas and short-lived climate pollutant emissions are reduced.

Link to the department’s Program Inventory: Clean Growth and Climate Change Mitigation.

Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program: The Low Carbon Economy Fund (LCEF) is a tool for advancing incremental domestic climate change mitigation action under the 2030 Emissions Reduction Plan: Canada’s Next Steps for Clean Air and a Strong Economy, A Healthy Environment and a Healthy Economy – Canada's strengthened climate plan, and the Pan-Canadian Framework on Clean Growth and Climate Change (PCF).  

The LCEF supports projects to reduce Canada’s greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, generate clean growth, build resilient communities, and create good jobs for Canadians. Specifically, the LCEF supports actions that materially reduce GHG emissions (includes actions that materially increase removals where relevant), are incremental to current plans, and achieve significant reductions within the period of Canada’s first Nationally Determined Contribution under the Paris Agreement. Also, where possible, resources will be allocated towards those projects that yield the greatest absolute GHG reductions for the lowest cost-per-tonne.

There are no repayable contributions.

Results achieved: 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.

Findings of audits completed in 2023-24: N/A – No internal audits were completed in 2023-24

Findings of evaluations completed in 2023-24: N/A – No evaluation completed in 2023-24

However, an evaluation of the Low Carbon Economy Fund is currently underway. The evaluation covers the five-year period from 2017-18 to 2022-23. The evaluation examines the themes of relevance, design, effectiveness, and efficiency. The final report is planned to be completed by April 2025.

Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2023-24: The LCEF has four main components funds that target various applicants and recipients:

• For the Leadership Fund, ECCC conducted face-to-face and/or virtual meetings with all provinces and territories to provide clarification on program criteria, discuss potential proposal ideas and provide feedback on proposal submission packages. Bi-annual Agreement Oversight Committees were also convened with provinces and territories to review the status and progress of ongoing Leadership Fund programs, identify public communications opportunities, and address questions or issues brought forth by recipients. Finally, a hybrid Climate Change Programming Symposium in winter 2024 brought together provincial, territorial and federal representatives to share best practices in climate change mitigation programs.
• To support the Challenge Fund’s 2023 intake, ECCC engaged with applicants through webinars, program inboxes, targeted correspondence and direct conversations during the program’s application and assessment processes.
• For the Implementation Readiness Fund, ECCC engaged with applicants through targeted correspondence, a program inbox and direct conversations.
• For the Indigenous Leadership Fund (ILF), ECCC engaged with applicants and recipients through face-to-face and/or virtual meetings to provide information on the program, discuss proposed project ideas, provide feedback on application packages, and support funding agreement negotiations. In addition, ECCC established an ILF program inbox for applicant inquiries and correspondence and participated in a webinar hosted by Indigenous Clean Energy in November 2023, which featured an in-depth overview of the ILF. ECCC officials under the ILF also participated in in-person events, conferences, and distinctions-based senior bilateral tables to collaborate and engage with Indigenous proponents and partners. ECCC also engaged applicants across all LCEF program streams to negotiate and execute funding agreements for approved projects.

Financial information (dollars):

Explanation of variances:

Total Authorities include Budget 2023 cut $198.9M, $40M transfer to Natural Resources Canada (NRCan), $18.7M transferred to Canada Nature Fund.

Authorities available for use exceeded actual spending because recipients were unable to spend as much as expected under their funding agreements on their projects due to various factors including implementation delays from continued supply chain interruptions. Several recipients have encountered delays including in permitting, contracting and completing environmental assessments, as well as unforeseen circumstances, such as forest fires, impacting construction timelines and activities. In addition, the implementation of the recapitalized LCEF has been delayed due to adjustments in available funding requiring a program review. ECCC is requesting a partial ($77M) reprofile of lapsed funds for the original LCEF and a reprofile of all lapsed funds ($159.4M) for the recapitalized LCEF from fiscal year 2023-24 to future fiscal years to provide recipients and successful applicants with additional time to implement their projects and achieve greenhouse gas (GHG) reductions. As well as the $5M grant funding transferred to reserve to fund pressures and/or prepayments.

Output-Based Pricing System Proceeds Fund

Start date: 2021

End date: 2030

Type of transfer payment: Contribution

Type of appropriation: Statutory Funding through the Greenhouse Gas Pollution Pricing Act (GGPPA), Carbon Pricing Proceeds Return: Output Based Pricing System (OBPS). Reported through annual report to Parliament.

Fiscal year for terms and conditions: 2021-22

Link to departmental result(s): Taking Action on Clean Growth and Climate Change; Canadian Greenhouse gas and short-lived climate pollutant emissions are reduced.

Link to the department’s Program Inventory: Clean Growth and Climate Change Mitigation

Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program: The federal carbon pollution pricing system returns proceeds collected to jurisdictions of origin, including proceeds collected from the OBPS. Participating provincial and territorial governments that have committed to addressing climate change by voluntarily adopting the federal system can receive these proceeds directly from the Government of Canada. In the remaining provinces where the federal price on carbon pollution is in effect, the Government of Canada returns the proceeds through several mechanisms, including the OBPS Proceeds Fund.

The OBPS Proceeds Fund facilitates the return of OBPS proceeds collected from jurisdictions where the federal OBPS has been applied and not requested and will support the long-term decarbonization of Canada’s heavy industry sector through clean technology implementation projects and large-scale clean electricity initiatives. 

There are no repayable contributions.

Results achieved: The OBPS Proceeds Fund, comprised of the Decarbonization Incentive Program (DIP) and the Future Electricity Fund (FEF), has committed approximately $580.6M in support of decarbonization and clean energy projects through concluded funding agreements with OBPS regulated facilities and provinces. Under the DIP there are currently 25 signed funding agreements leading to approximately $64.4M in OBPS proceeds being returned in support of clean technology implementation projects.

Under the FEF, ECCC has concluded funding agreements with the Governments of Saskatchewan and New Brunswick that is expected to see approximately $516.2M returned in support of provincial clean energy initiatives.

• Approximately $496.1M has been allocated under the FEF to advance various clean energy projects in Saskatchewan including upgrading aging infrastructure, distributing electricity smart meters, advancing hydro-electric energy production, and developing a path forward for small modular reactors.
• Approximately $20.1M in OBPS proceeds has been allocated under the FEF to New Brunswick’s Enhanced Energy Saving Program, which will support home heating retrofits for low-income Canadians.

Findings of audits completed in 2023-24: N/A – No internal audits were completed in 2023-24

Findings of evaluations completed in 2023-24: N/A – No evaluation completed in 2023-24.

Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2023-24: ECCC officials engage with applicants through targeted correspondence, public webinars, generic programming inboxes, publicized communications materials, and through direct conversations with provincial and territorial officials, including through Ministerial correspondence.

Financial information (dollars):

Explanation of variances:

The 2023-24 planned spending amount is $0 as the funding for the OBPS program is received through Supplementary estimates. Therefore, there is no variance as the total authorities available has been spent.

Preventing and Managing Pollution

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; 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 through the following actions:

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

There are no repayable contributions.

Results achieved:

Canadian Environmental Protection Act (CEPA):

• In 2023-24, ECCC began work on the development of an implementation framework for the right to a healthy environment under CEPA, a requirement under the newly modernized Act. The framework must be developed by June 2025 and will set out how the right will be considered in the administration of the Act. Interested persons such as Indigenous partners, representatives from industry, non-governmental organizations, academia, and youth will have the opportunity to participate in the development of the framework.
• In 2023-24, ECCC distributed $300,000 in funding to support 14 Indigenous organizations and nations lead engagement activities. These activities included workshops, focus groups, elder circles, technical review of the discussion document on the right to a healthy environment under CEPA. These activities helped ensure that Indigenous voices and perspectives are reflected during the development of the implementation framework. The contributions agreements with these organizations are for 2 years with additional funding and activities planned to be carried out in 2024-25. 

Water Quality and Ecosystems Partnerships:

• In 2023-24, effort continued to be focus on improving, restoring, and protecting the Great Lakes, St. Lawrence River, Lake Winnipeg and other waterbodies of national significance. The Department also continued to increase public engagement in conservation and restoration through citizen science, and to fund water conservation and protection activities through various ecosystems initiatives, such as:
• An investment of more than $4.1M over three years in twenty-five new projects in Ontario through the Great Lakes Freshwater Ecosystem Initiative, part of the Government of Canada’s Freshwater Action Plan. These projects are advancing efforts to restore water quality and ecosystem health in Great Lakes Areas of Concern, prevent toxic and nuisance algae, and engage Indigenous Peoples.
• Ongoing work to implement the Canada-Manitoba Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) Respecting Lake Winnipeg and the Lake Winnipeg Basin, under which efforts continued with Indigenous and other partners to advance and share freshwater knowledge and science, as well as reduce nutrient loadings in the Basin. In 2023-24, the Lake Winnipeg Basin Program invested $0.81M in seven projects that supported strategic partnerships and program priorities of nutrient reduction, collaboration, and enhancing Indigenous engagement.
• In 2023-24, $435,366 in funding were distributed for 12 projects under the Community Interaction Program. These projects involved riverside communities, including First Nations. Specifically, the projects funded were intended among others to protect important ecological systems (i.e., wetlands, rivers, coastal environment) and restore aquatic and riparian habitats.
• In 2023-24, ECCC provided the Tsleil-Waututh Nation with an annual contribution of $100,000 to support implementation of a collaborative decision-making agreement concerning the management of the Point Grey Disposal at Sea Site. This represents a significant step toward reconciliation and contributes towards the protection of the marine environment.
• ECCC contributes $25,000 every year to the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) for work conducted under the Working Party on Chemical Accidents working group. In June 2023, the OECD Council adopted the binding legal instrument Decision-Recommendation of the Council concerning Chemical Accident Prevention, Preparedness, and Response, to which Canada is a signatory, and published the flagship guidance document, OECD Guiding Principles for Chemical Accident Prevention, Preparedness, and Response.
• In 2023-24, ECCC supported the development of the Canadian Standards Association (CSA) – Process Safety Management Standard (Z767) – 2nd Edition, with a $10,000 contribution to the Process Safety Management Division of the Chemical Institute of Canada. The standard was completed in March of 2024. The standard will help prevent chemical accidents in Canada by providing industry with a resource to assess and manage process risk at commercial and industrial facilities.

Advancing a Circular Economy for Plastics in Canada:

• In 2023-24, ECCC provided over $1M to nine initiatives to promote a circular economy and reduce plastic waste and pollution. The objective remained to support Canadian businesses, non-profit organizations and researchers in developing innovative solutions to address plastic waste and pollution.
• The Government of Canada is funding over $1M in 9 initiatives to promote a circular economy and reduce waste. The objective was to support Canadian businesses, non-profit organizations and researchers in developing Canadian-made innovative solutions to address plastic waste and pollution.
• ECCC continued to work with partners and invest in organizations to support evidence-based action, such as through improved and standardized data across the plastics value chain, as well as innovation and market transformation in key targeted sectors, including the textile and food and beverage sectors. These efforts will support the reduction of unnecessary or problematic plastics, facilitate the adoption of reuse solutions, and improve the national collection and recycling rates within industry and federal operations.

Substances and Waste Management:

• In 2023-24, ECCC entered into a two-year agreement with the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) for $55,000 to support a study on the global supply, trade, production and use of mercury compounds.  This study will provide valuable information for international efforts to control mercury compounds under the Minamata Convention on Mercury.  The initial contribution of $15,000 in 2023-24 supported contract planning and the report outline.  Work will continue in 2024-25 with the remaining $40,000 and the final report will be made available sometime in Fall 2024.

Salish Sea Marine Emission Reductions Fund:

• The focus of this funding program was to reduce air pollutant and greenhouse gas emissions from domestic marine vessels or fleets operating in the Salish Sea. There were two streams applicants could apply for, either Stream 1 which was a study investigating the best way for a vessel or fleet to reduce its air pollutant emissions or Stream 2 which was an investment and installation of emission reduction technology.
• In 2023-24, ECCC distributed funding to four different recipients to support projects in the Salish Sea, for a total value of $305,000. Two of the recipients were academia, one was a non-profit organization, and one was a for-profit organization. All four projects achieved their expected outcomes and spent all the funds. Three of the projects were in Stream 1, and one project was in Stream 2. The project in the second stream received more funding and they provided three rowing clubs in British Columbia with electric outboards to replace their gas outboards. Through education and outreach, the organization hopes to accelerate the adoption of electric outboards in the rowing community.

Regulatory Engagement and Air Monitoring:

• The focus of this funding agreement was to contribute to reducing Canadian greenhouse gas (GHG) and short-lived climate pollutant emissions.
• In 2023-24, ECCC distributed $45,000 in funding to the Aamjiwnaang First Nation. The project enabled the First Nation to retain a technical expert to provide them with advice on SO₂ controls, benzene performance measures and the development on an abatement plan for minimizing flaring. The First Nation plans on sharing the flare minimization plan with Industry in the Sarnia area. The project was a non-application-based program. The project achieved it’s expected outcomes and spent all the funds.

Enhanced Vehicle Verification Fund:

The focus of this funding program was to contribute to the reduction of Canadian greenhouse gas and short-lived climate pollutant emissions.

• In 2023-24, ECCC distributed funding to two different recipients, for a total value of $108,000. One project focused GHG and air pollutant emissions from the operation of heavy-duty vehicles (HDV) and the other on newest generation of mini-Portable Emissions Measurement Systems (PEMS). The first recipient was a not-for profit organization, and the second was academia. Both projects were a non-application-based program.
• For the first project, ECCC’s contribution enabled The Governing Council of the University of Toronto to work on modelling and to analyze GHG and air pollutant emissions from the operation of HDV in the Toronto Region. This project was built on the University of Toronto's modelling work to consider a broader range of scenarios including new diesel trucks, electrification of routes with most impact on local communities, and cargo bike deliveries in dense neighbourhoods. This project quantified benefits for climate, air quality, and environmental justice.
• For the second project, ECCC’s contribution enabled the Michigan Technological University (MTU) to conduct preparatory work, validation, and testing of the newest generation of MTU’s PEMS for snowmobile applications. During the course of the project, no significant changes were made to the work plan, with the exception of reallocating a portion of the funding to purchase capital equipment. A new, four-stroke snowmobile for on-snow testing was purchased and instrumented for emissions and fuel flow measurements. Both projects achieved their expected outcomes and spent all the funds.

Findings of audits completed in 2023-24: N/A – No internal audits were completed in 2023-24

Findings of evaluations completed in 2023-24: N/A – No evaluation completed in 2023-24

However, the following evaluations are currently underway:

• An evaluation of the Trans Mountain Pipeline Expansion - Terrestrial Cumulative Effects Initiative: A horizontal evaluation, led by ECCC, that covers a four-year period from 2019-20 to 2023-24. The evaluation examines the themes of Design and delivery, efficiency, governance, performance measurement, effectiveness and ongoing relevance. The final report is planned to be completed by December 2024.
• An evaluation of the Enforcement Modernization Initiative - The evaluation covers a four-year period from 2020-21 to 2023-24. The evaluation examines the themes of effectiveness, efficiency (including governance), design, and performance information. The final report is planned to be completed by December 2024.

Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2023-24: Applicants and recipients are engaged under this program in two ways:

• Recipients through application-based process,
• Recipients based on their unique ability to address targeted program results.

The Department employs the following initiatives to provide access to the program in a clear, understandable, and accessible manner: social media; information provided on the departmental website; email correspondence with targeted interest groups; and meetings with targeted recipient communities.

Contribution agreements supporting engagement with various Indigenous groups were established related to regulatory amendments to the Metal and Diamond Mining Effluent Regulations, as well as the development of the Coal Mining Effluent Regulations and the co-development of potential Oil Sands Mining Effluent Regulations with the Crown-Indigenous Working Group.

Financial information (dollars):

Explanation of variances:

Most of the variance between planned amount and final spending can be explained by the department receiving $8.6M through supplementary funding as well as $4.1M in approved pressures in 2023-24. The remaining variance is due to transfers from the Department’s Grants and Contibution reserve.

Taking Action on Clean Growth and Climate Change

Start date: 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.

Results achieved: Nature Smart Climate Solution Fund (NSCSF) – Science and Data Initiative:

• $463,018 was allocated in funding to four projects contributing to the advancement of knowledge and information on natural climate solutions in Canada. This investment will contribute to improving Canada’s knowledge on fighting climate change by conducting research on historical baselines, projections, and drivers of ecosystems conversion.
• Under the NSCSF – Science and Data Initiative, $511, 900 was invested in 6 projects, to acquire new wetlands coverage as well as collect, compile, and process ground truth data to help strengthen the Canadian National Wetlands Inventory (CNWI). By developing a standardized ground-truth database to support Canada-wide wetlands classification, and through increased mapping efforts, this helped increase and improve wetlands data coverage across Canada.
• In 2023-24, ECCC began supporting with climate finance funds, four methane emission mitigation projects, three in the biogas sector in India, Serbia, and Cote d’Ivoire, and one in the oil and gas sector in Nigeria.

Findings of audits completed in 2023-24: N/A – No internal audits were completed in 2023-24

Findings of evaluations completed in 2023-24: N/A - No evaluation completed in 2023-24

However, an evaluation of the Low Carbon Economy Fund is currently underway. The horizontal evaluation covers a five-year period from 2017-18 to 2022-23. The evaluation examines the themes of relevance, design, effectiveness, and efficiency. The final report is planned to be completed by AprilApril 2025.

Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2023-24:

Financial information (dollars):

Explanation of variances:

Taking Action on Clean Growth and Climate Change received $1.8M in approved pressure funding. Planned spending in grants include $3M CAF Grant that was returned to reserve for pressures. $782,500 was transferred from Net Zero grants to contributions as well as CPPPR grant received $281,400 pressure funding. NSCSF Climate transferred $6.5M to NSCSF Nature as per the Treasury Board approval, internal reallocations to fund priorities, and normal program operational slippage and the withdrawal or cancellation of some projects in which account for the variance.

Youth Employment and Skills Strategy

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: 2016-17

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: Community Eco-Action

Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program: ECCC manages Science Horizons Youth Internship Program (Science Horizons). It is funded through the Government of Canada’s Youth Employment and Skills Strategy (YESS), overseen by Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC). The Youth Employment and Skills Strategy (YESS) is the Government of Canada’s response to helping young Canadians ages 15-30 gain the skills and work experiences required to get job ready and successfully transition into the labour market.

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 graduate to work in the Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics (STEM) sectors. Two-year contribution agreements are currently in place (2023-25) for four delivery organizations, who administer the program, including all activities related to matching eligible employers and interns. There are no repayable contributions.

Results achieved: 650 interns received funding supports in 2023-24. As of March 2024, preliminary results are showing 7.2% were youth with disabilities, 25.5% were racialized youth, 4% were Indigenous youth, 18.6% were youth who are members of the 2SLGBTQI+ community, and 55.2% were women. Science Horizons is on a two-year cycle and these results are for the first year of the cycle. Official program results are measured at the end of the two-year cycle.

Findings of audits completed in 2023-24: N/A – No internal audits were completed in 2023-24

Findings of evaluations completed in 2023-24: N/A - No evaluation completed in 2023-24

Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2023-24: In November 2022, ECCC initiated a call for proposals (via internet and social media) from potential recipients to collaborate in the delivery of the Science Horizons Program for the 2023-24 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. Official quarterly program updates are conducted by the Science Horizons team to the recipients to address irregularities and issues arising with any employers/ interns, update on the outreach plan and targets, and any organization updates.

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.

Financial information (dollars):

Explanation of variances:

Variance of $25,000 is due to funding lapsed by recipient organizations due to early terminations of internships late in the fiscal year, an underspend of wage subsidy amounts and underspending of administrative costs by recipient organizations.