2024 to 2025 Departmental Sustainable Development Strategy Report

Management of Substances and Waste Program aims to reduce threats to the health of Canadians and their environment from harmful substances and waste through various actions and activities including stakeholder engagement, information gathering, research, monitoring, tracking, as well as reporting of harmful substances, assessing, and managing their risks to the environment.

Other useful information on substances and waste management:

• Managing and reducing waste
• Managing substances in the environment
• Plastic waste and pollution reduction

These ECCC programs contribute to advancing:

Canadian Indicator Framework (CIF) ambitions:

• 3.9 Canada prevents causes of premature death.
  • Target: No specific target

Global Indicator Framework (GIF) targets:

• 3.9 By 2030, substantially reduce the number of deaths and illnesses from hazardous chemicals and air, water and soil pollution and contamination
• 3.9.2 Mortality rate attributed to unsafe water, unsafe sanitation, and lack of hygiene (exposure to unsafe Water, Sanitation and Hygiene for All (WASH) services)
• 3.d Strengthen the capacity of all countries, in particular developing countries, for early warning, risk reduction and management of national and global health risks.
• 3.d.1 International Health Regulations (IHR) capacity and health emergency preparedness

The Air Quality Program addresses outdoor air pollution with the aim of improving the quality of ambient air, reducing the effects of pollutants on human health and the environment, and empowering Canadians to protect themselves when air quality deteriorates. The Program performs air quality science (research, monitoring, and modeling), and analysis, generates emissions data, and provides scientific, technical and policy advice. The Program develops Canadian Ambient Air Quality Standards, monitors and reports on ambient air quality, develops and administers regulations and other risk management instruments to reduce air pollutant emissions from industry, vehicles, engines and fuels, and consumer and commercial products. The Program collaborates with other federal departments, provinces, territories, and other stakeholders to address domestic air pollution and to implement Canada’s Air Quality Management System and works internationally to reduce transboundary air pollution. The Program is also working to collaborate with Indigenous Peoples on air quality issues of concern for them, particularly for those living in areas near industrial activities. Additionally, the Program produces and disseminates hourly Air Quality Health Index (AQHI) forecasts and related health information to help Canadians make decisions to protect their health by limiting short-term exposure to air pollution.

Other useful information on air quality:

• Air pollution and air quality in Canada
• Canada’s actions on air quality
• Air quality research and science
• Air Quality Health Index

Air Quality Program: In 2024-25, ECCC:

• Administered regulations to reduce air pollutant emissions from industrial sources, vehicles, engines and fuels, and consumer and commercial products;
• Published the proposed Clean Electricity Regulations, and the proposed amendments to the Multi-Sector Air Pollutant Regulations (part 1: boilers and heaters);
• Continued to work to reduce short-lived climate pollutants (SLCPs), many of which are also harmful air pollutants;
• Continued the work to establish a partnership table with Aamjiwnaang First Nation to co-develop solutions to address the air quality concerns of the community;
• Continued collaboration with provinces and territories to implement the Air Quality Management System (AQMS), including advancing the retrospective stock-take of the system;
• Worked with federal, provincial and territorial partners to approve new 2030 Canadian Ambient Air Quality Standards (CAAQS) for fine particulate matter;
• Monitored key air pollutant levels through the National Air Pollutant Surveillance Program. Also, advanced international efforts to reduce transboundary air pollution by:
  • implementing bilateral agreements such as the Canada-US Air Quality Agreement
  • participating in multilateral agreements such as the Convention on Long-Range Transboundary Air Pollution and advanced negotiations to update and strengthen them; and
• Issued daily air quality forecasts and alerts to help inform Canadians on the quality of the air they breathe and to enable them to better make health-based decisions.

In May 2024, the federal government issued the Interim Order Respecting Releases of Benzene from Petrochemical Facilities in Sarnia, Ontario that required immediate steps be taken to reduce benzene emissions from petrochemical facilities exceeding a particular fence line limit. Since then, the Reduction in the Release of Volatile Organic Compounds (Storage and Loading of Volatile Petroleum Liquids) Regulations were published which seek to limit the emissions of volatile organic compounds including benzene, particularly due to leaks from process equipment, storage tanks, and loading activities at petroleum and petrochemical facilities. ECCC also continues to collaborate with the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) and international partners to strengthen capacity for the provision of timely, reliable, and accessible air quality information and services, including through its leadership role in the WMO Wildfire Smoke Alert and Advisory System, and specifically by hosting the website of the North American Regional Wildfire Smoke Alert and Advisory Center.

The Chemicals Management Plan (CMP) is a Government of Canada initiative aimed at reducing the risks posed by chemical substances to Canadians and the environment. Through the CMP, the Government of Canada assesses and manages risks to human health and the environment posed by chemical substances that can be found in food and food products, consumer products, cosmetics, drugs, drinking water and industrial releases. Once it has been determined that a chemical substance poses a risk, risk management instruments (mandatory or voluntary) are then identified, developed, and put into action to help prevent, reduce, or eliminate that risk. For example, under the CMP:

• The proposed Regulations Amending the Products Containing Mercury were published in the Canada Gazette, Part I, on December 24, 2022. The proposed Amendments would further reduce mercury emissions in Canada and lead to energy savings and reduced greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. The final Amendments were published on June 19, 2024.
• ECCC is developing proposed regulations for coal tar-based sealant products to protect environmental and human health in Canada from the risks posed by certain products containing coal tars and their distillates. The proposed Regulations were published in the Canada Gazette, Part I, on November 18, 2023. The final Regulations are expected to be published at the end of 2024.

Support youth, particularly those facing barriers to employment, gain the skills, work experience and abilities they need to make a successful transition into the labour market, particularly in environmental and clean technology sectors.

Program: Community and Sustainability

Performance indicator: Number of youth served who have received funding for an internship

Starting point and fiscal year: 1,059 in 2017-18

Target: At least 581 by 2024-25

ECCC helps young Canadians gain meaningful hands-on research and training experiences in environmental fields. As a result, youth have access to

programs that allow them to acquire the

skills and opportunities they need to be successful in high growth sectors such as the green economy.

Relevant targets or ambitions:

GIF Target: UN SDG 4: Promote knowledge and skills for sustainable development (Target 4.4 & 4.5)

Performance indicator: Percentage of visible minority youth served who have received funding for an internship

Starting point and fiscal year: 17% in 2016-17

Target: At least 20% by 2024-25

ECCC provides wage subsidies to employers in the environmental science and clean technology sectors to offer paid internship opportunities to youth. The program includes specific support measures to help youth under-represented on the labor market in these sectors, especially indigenous youth, visible minority youth, and youth with a disability that face substantial barriers towards employment.

Relevant targets or ambitions:

GIF Target: UN SDG 4: Promote knowledge and skills for sustainable development (Target 4.4)

Performance indicator: Percentage of Indigenous youth served who have received funding for an internship

Starting point and fiscal year: 3% in 2016-17

Target: At least 2.1% by 2024-25

Performance indicator: Percentage of youth with a disability served who have received funding for an internship

Starting point and fiscal year: 2% in 2016-17

Target: At least 2.1% by 2024-25

Performance indicator: Percentage of youth who have received funding for an internship who are employed/self-employed

Starting point and fiscal year: 80% in 2020-21

Target: At least 80% annually

This indicator is a measure of the impact which the internship has on the employability of the youth, and their successful transition into the labour market.

Relevant targets or ambitions:

GIF Target: UN SDG 4: Promote knowledge and skills for sustainable development (Target 4.4)

Provide enhanced oversight, administration, and coordination to program partners of the Federal Contaminated Sites Action Plan.

Program: Aquatic Ecosystems Health, Substances and Waste Management

Performance indicator: Percentage of senior governance meetings that are held on time each fiscal year

Starting point and fiscal year: 100% in 2019-20

Target: At least 80% annually

Note: Senior governance meetings provide the FCSAP Secretariat with strategic advice to achieve FCSAP’s ultimate objectives, which are to reduce risks to human health and the environment and to reduce environmental liability. This results in safe and healthy communities for Canadians to enjoy.

Timely decisions from senior governance meetings help to improve program delivery of the Federal Contaminated Sites Action Plan, which is the Government of Canada’s main program for addressing federal contaminated sites, thereby providing Canadians with safe and healthy communities to enjoy.

By leading the program and addressing the contaminated sites for which ECCC is responsible and providing expertise to other federal departments, ECCC will reduce ecological and human health risks related to harmful substances at federal contaminated sites.

Relevant targets or ambitions:

GIF Target: UN SDG 3: Good health and well-being (Target 3.9)

UN SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production (Target 12.4)

Inspiring societal behavioral change through environmental education.

Program: Environmental Literacy and Citizenship

Performance indicator: Number of youth and Canadian public reached annually through ECCC programming and Grants and Contribution recipient organizations

Starting point and fiscal year: 0 in 2022-23

Target: At least 5000 by 2024-25

Equipping K to 12 students and their educators with the knowledge and skills they need to understand and cope with the triple threat of climate change, pollution, and biodiversity loss. This work includes:

• Outreach initiative: training GOC scientists and putting them in touch with teachers and schools.
• Grants and Contribution program: partnering with trusted organizations already active in environmental education and increasing reach and impact.
• Policy design: working towards a Pan-Canadian Strategy on Environmental Literacy.

These 3 pillars of activities will contribute to raising opportunities for access to quality environmental education for children, youth, their educators, and families.

Relevant targets or ambitions:

GIF Target: UN SDG 4: Quality Education (Target 4.7)

Indicator result: 688,737

Notes: The target, set conservatively in the previous year due to the early stage of the program and pending project funding, was exceeded. Several projects outperformed their own targets, citing factors such as greater-than-expected social media reach. ECCC outreach initiatives also benefited from unexpected kiosk opportunities and growing program recognition, contributing to increased public engagement. These results highlight strong demand for environmental education. As the program matures, future targets will be more precise.

Testing the use of behavioural science to boost climate action through the Program of Applied Research on Climate Action (PARCA).

Program: Clean Growth and Climate Change Mitigation

Performance indicator: Data, knowledge, and insight to support policy, program and communications efforts is shared with internal and external partners, including academia and multilateral organizations, to inform ambitious climate and environmental action

Starting point and fiscal year: Launched in 2021-22

Target: Results of research shared with partners in 2024-25

Social science research, specifically behavioural science research, helps to identify what will motivate individuals and organizations to take action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. This information can then be used to make informed policy and program decisions and better communicate with Canadians to address barriers that may be preventing people from taking positive climate action. PARCA behavioural science work contributes to:

• Helping industries develop and adopt clean technology.
• Investing in nature and natural climate solutions.
• Empowering communities to take climate action.
• Advancing Canada’s zero plastic waste agenda to reduce plastic waste and pollution.

Relevant targets or ambitions:

GIF Target: UN SDG 13: Climate Action (Target 13.3)

UN SDG 12: Responsible consumption and production (Target 12.8)

Conduct greenhouse gas (GHG) science, modelling, and long-term monitoring of atmospheric GHGs to understand sources and sinks in support of domestic legislation and international commitments.

Program: Clean Growth and Climate Change Mitigation

Performance indicator: Percentage of requested products delivered to senior management and decision-makers

Starting point and fiscal year: 100% in 2018-19

Target: 100% annually

Undertaking research, modelling, and long-term atmospheric greenhouse gas monitoring and preparing Canada’s annual National Inventory Report on Greenhouse Gas Sources and Sinks in Canada and submitting it to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change increases ECCC’s understanding of the implications of climate change on human health. This informs risk assessments, communication and adaptation actions that support domestic legislation and international commitments that contribute to reaching the goal of the FSDS.

Relevant targets or ambitions:

GIF Target: UN SDG 13: Climate Action (Targets 13.1 & 13.3)

Support and continue to implement the Canadian Centre for Climate Services (CCCS).

Program: Climate Change Adaptation

Performance indicator: Number of clients accessing climate information through CCCS climate information portals

Starting point and fiscal year: 179,750 visits in 2019-20

Target: An increase over the preceding year’s result, annually^{Footnote 1}

Note: An increasing number of clients accessing climate and adaptation information is an indication of greater awareness that the climate is changing and will change in the future. This information is important in the decision-making and planning process to enhance resilience and better prepare for climate-related risks and impacts.

By establishing the CCCS as an authoritative access point for climate information, tools, and support, ECCC supports informed decision-making, contributing to climate resilience in communities, economies, and ecosystems. The CCCS is an important part of the Pan-Canadian Framework and the official source for reliable climate data, information, tools, training, and user support to help increase climate resilience across Canada,

Relevant targets or ambitions:

GIF Target: UN SDG 13: Climate Action (Targets 13.1and 13.3)

Inform Canadians about releases and disposals of pollutants in their communities through the National Pollutant Release Inventory.

Program: Aquatic Ecosystems Health, Substances and Waste Management

Performance indicator: Percentage of National Pollutant Release Inventory data made publicly available each year

Starting point and fiscal year: First published in 1995

Target: 100% by December 2025

Note: This indicator measures the publication of data on pollutants which helps Canadians access key information to help them make better decision for their health.

By collecting and sharing data on air pollutants and harmful substances from more than 7,500 facilities across Canada through the National Pollutant Release Inventory (NPRI), ECCC will inform evidence-based decision-making to protect the health of Canadians and the environment from harmful substances and assist Canadians in making informed decisions about their health.

Relevant targets or ambitions:

GIF Target: UN SDG 3: Good health and well-being (Target 3.9, Target 3.D)

UN SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities (Target 11.6)

UN SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production (Target 12.4)

UN SDG 13: Climate Action (Target 13.3)

UN SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions (Target 16.7, Target 16.10)

Conduct scientific and economic research and analysis to support evidence-based decisions.

Program: Community and Sustainability

Performance indicator: Number of visits to the Canadian Environmental Sustainability Indicators (CESI) web site

Starting point and fiscal year: 225,068 in 2018 calendar year

Target: 300,000 in 2024-25

Note: The Canadian Environmental Sustainability Indicators (CESI) program’s objective is to provide a broad range of environmental sustainability information to public and private users. Measuring CESI’s website traffic provides a good indicator of use.

By conducting scientific and economic research and analysis, ECCC will support evidence-based climate-related decisions and more effective action to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG). ECCC will continue to track Canada’s GHG emissions, collect emissions data, support academic research, provide information to support policy development and help Canadians make climate-related decisions, by:

• Ensuring public access to information and research findings pertaining to sustainable development and environmental governance; and
• Providing key economic analysis to assess incremental impacts of regulatory proposals that combat climate change and reduce GHG emissions and meet national emissions-reductions targets.

Relevant targets or ambitions:

GIF Target: UN SDG 12: Responsible consumption and production (Target 12.8)

Invest in women’s skills, employment, and leadership

Eliminate barriers and promote young women’s employment and participation in decision-making through skills, training, and mentorship initiatives, such as the Science Horizons Youth Internship Program led by Environment and Climate Change Canada.

Program: Community and Sustainability

Performance indicator: Percentage of women aged 15-30 who have received funding for an internship and are employed

Starting point and fiscal year: 52% in 2022-23

Target: At least 50% by 2024-25

ECCC actively aims to eliminate barriers for young women post-secondary graduates (age 15-30) looking to pursue a career in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) fields and gain meaningful work experience to train them for the labor force. This is offered through skills training, leadership, mentorship, and professional internship opportunities through the Science Horizons Youth Internship Program. ECCC has enforced dedicated targets for the program to ensure increased participation and opportunities for women, helping reduce the systemic barriers to gender equality. From 2019-20 onwards, program uptake by young women has been over 50% annually. The program advances the FSDS goal by providing internship opportunities to women in STEM fields and has specific measures to reduce barriers for women. For example, the program offers participants with additional wrap around supports such as financial supports for childcare or family care services, which are aimed to help youth with dependent children and/or family access employment.

Relevant targets or ambitions:

GIF Target: UN SDG 4: Promote knowledge and skills for sustainable development (Target 4.4)

Indicator result: 58.6%

Supporting women’s representation in ECCC’s international delegations to support gender equality in international decision-making processes related to climate change.

Program: International Environment and Climate Action

Performance Indicator: Annual percentage of women in ECCC’s Canadian delegations participating in international meetings and events related to environment and climate change.

Starting point and fiscal year: 61% in 2023-2024

Target: At least 50% annually

This action supports Gender Equality (Goal 5) by supporting women’s participation in international decision-making processes related to climate change and acknowledging the importance of women’s perspectives in shaping global climate policies. Maintaining the target highlights Canada’s leadership in promoting diverse and inclusive decision-making and contributes to more equitable and effective climate action, aligning with Canada’s broader commitment to advancing gender equality in global environmental governance.

Indicator result: 65.6%

Develop knowledge of water sustainability in Canada

Provide information, data, and expertise for domestic and international water boards to support efforts to regulate lakes and river basins.

Program: Canada Water Agency; Hydrological Services

Performance indicator: Number of Indigenous organizations/ communities participating in Great Lakes decision-making processes and projects that restore and protect Great Lakes water quality

Starting point and fiscal year: 35 in 2018-19

Target: 50 in 2024-25

Note: This indicator is a good measure of the FSDS goal, target and contributing action because it demonstrates how Canada is working with Indigenous communities and organizations to address Great Lakes issues, and ensuring Indigenous partners have a role in Great Lakes governance and decision-making.

ECCC supports partners to take action to improve water quality and ecosystem health, including by reducing phosphorus loading in key ecosystems, through:

• Collaboration with the provinces and territories, by way of agreements.
• Collaboration with the U.S.
• Participation in targeted studies focused on improving inter-jurisdictional water management.
• Partnering with Indigenous Peoples to increase collaboration in priority freshwater ecosystems.
• Contributing to the effective management of other boundary and transboundary waters.

Relevant targets or ambitions:

GIF Target: UN SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation (Target 6.3, Target 6.6)

Indicator result: 29

Notes: This indicator falls under the responsibility of the Canada Water Agency. Barriers to Indigenous engagement included limited funding and capacity. In 2024-25, a new funding approach for First Nations through Contribution Agreements was undertaken but took longer than expected to negotiate and implement. Indigenous engagement is expected to increase in 2025-26, especially given the increased funding that has been allocated to Indigenous communities and organizations to work on Great Lakes projects.

Performance indicator: Percentage of commitments under the 2021 Canada–Ontario Agreement on Great Lakes Water Quality and Ecosystem Health (COA) that are either on track or have been achieved

Starting point and fiscal year: 93% in 2022-23

Target: 100% by 2026-27

Note: This indicator is a good measure of the FSDS goal, target and contributing action because it demonstrates how Canada is working with the Province of Ontario and other partners.

The Canada-Ontario Agreement (COA) is the instrument through which Canada and the Province of Ontario work together, in collaboration with many partners (e.g., Indigenous partners), to restore and protect Great Lakes water quality and ecosystem health. Activities that advance COA implementation result in critical information, data, etc. required for the effective management of the Great Lakes.

Through the Freshwater Action Plan, ECCC combines science and action to address the most significant environmental challenges affecting Great Lakes water quality and ecosystem health and deliver on Canada’s commitments under the Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement (GLWQA). ECCC collaborates with other federal departments and agencies as well as the Province of Ontario through the Canada–Ontario Agreement on Great Lakes Water Quality and Ecosystem Health to deliver on Canada’s commitments under the GLWQA.

Relevant targets or ambitions:

GIF Target: UN SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation (Target 6.3, Target 6.6)

Indicator result: 98.30%

Notes: This indicator falls under the responsibility of the Canada Water Agency. Only 2 out of 406 commitments in the Canada-Ontario Agreement on Great Lakes Water Quality and Ecosystem Health, 2021 were off-track. The first is Annex 5 – Result 2.c(ii), for which Transport Canada is considering alternatives for the scope, boundaries and implementation of the final design, thus pushing design and cost estimates outside the term of this COA. The second is Annex 10 – Result 2.a, for which Canada and Ontario are both participating in related activities underway and planned, such as a Canada-U.S. expert climate modelling workshop, and exploring development of a Great Lakes climate change impact assessment through webinars.

Performance indicator: Percentage of water board members rating their satisfaction with Environment and Climate Change Canada’s involvement on water boards and committees as 8 out of 10 or higher

Starting point and fiscal year: 70% in 2014-15

Target: At least 80% annually

ECCC support efforts to regulate lakes and river basins through:

• Collaboration with the provinces and territories, by way of agreements.
• Collaboration with the U.S. through the international Joint Commission.
• Participation in targeted studies focused on improving inter-jurisdictional water management.
• Contributing to the effective management of other boundary and transboundary waters.

ECCC’s Canada Water Agency Program Hydrological Services Program contribute to the goal of ensuring clean and safe water for all Canadians through the provision of water quality and quantity data and advice to domestic and international water boards. These boards are responsible for the regulation of specific lakes and rivers and effective management of other boundary and transboundary waters.

Relevant targets or ambitions:

GIF Target: UN SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation (Target 6.5)

Indicator result: 100%

Performance indicator: Cumulative number of Indigenous governments, organizations and communities engaged in efforts that restore and protect Lake Winnipeg water quality

Starting point and fiscal year: 26 partners in 2022-23

Target: 35 partners by 2025-26

Note: Healthy waterbodies and watersheds are required to sustain the traditional cultural, spiritual, and economic activities of Indigenous people and their communities. Indigenous governments, organizations, and communities have historically been underrepresented in efforts to improve water quality in Lake Winnipeg and its basin.

Through the Freshwater Action Plan, ECCC combines science and action to address the most significant water quality challenges affecting Lake Winnipeg and its basin. In collaboration with partners and through financial support to stakeholders, ECCC enables nutrient reductions from high-yielding sources and supports collaborative approaches and engagement of Indigenous Peoples on efforts that improve water quality and the ecosystem health of the Lake Winnipeg.

Relevant targets or ambitions:

GIF Target: UN SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation (Target 6.3, Target 6.6)

Indicator result: N/A

Notes: This indicator falls under the responsibility of the Canada Water Agency. The majority of projects funded in 2024-2025 are multi-year projects that were not completed at the end of the fiscal year. Therefore, no results are available for this period, as the projects are still ongoing. The target is expected to be achieved by the end of the 2025-2026 fiscal year.

Implement water quality and ecosystem partnership programs 

Restore and protect Canada’s freshwater and priority ecosystems such as the Great Lakes through sound science and collaboration with partners, including Indigenous Peoples through the Freshwater Action Plan.

Program: Canada Water Agency

Performance indicator: Number of required actions completed to restore six Areas of Concern in the Great Lakes, as outlined in the 2021 Canada–Ontario Agreement on Great Lakes Water Quality and Ecosystem Health

Starting point and fiscal year: 0 in 2021-22

Target: At least 6 by 2026-27

Note: This indicator is a good measure of the FSDS goal, target and contributing action because it demonstrates how Canada is taking action and collaborating with a range of partners under the GLWQA and COA to restore water quality and ecosystem health in the most degraded locations in the Great Lakes.

Through the Freshwater Action Plan, ECCC combines science and action to address the most significant environmental challenges affecting Great Lakes water quality and ecosystem health and deliver on Canada’s commitments under the Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement (GLWQA).

Canada collaborates with the Province of Ontario and other domestic partners to deliver on Canada’s commitments under the GLWQA through the Canada–Ontario Agreement on Great Lakes Water Quality and Ecosystem Health (COA). This includes ECCC collaboration with partners to restore water quality and ecosystem health in the most degraded hotspots in the Great Lakes, known as Areas of Concern through:

• Collaboration with other governments, Indigenous Peoples, and other regional partners to improve water quality and ecosystem health, including through: The Canada-US Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement.
• The Canada-Ontario Agreement on Great Lakes Water Quality and Ecosystem Health; and
• The Canada-Ontario Lake Erie Action Plan.

Relevant targets or ambitions:

GIF Target: UN SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation (Target 6.3, Target 6.6)

Indicator result: 3

Notes: This indicator falls under the responsibility of the Canada Water Agency. As of March 31, 2025, three Areas Of Concern have met the target, specifically Nipigon Bay, Peninsula Harbour, and the St. Clair River. Work is progressing well, and the long-term target is anticipated to be met with the remaining three, Port Hope Harbour, Bay of Quinte and St. Lawrence River.

Support the restoration and protection of Canada’s freshwater and priority ecosystems, such as the Lake Winnipeg Basin, through sound science and in collaboration with Indigenous and other regional partners across Canada through the Freshwater Action Plan.

Program: Canada Water Agency

Performance indicator: Total annual reduction of phosphorus loads from Canadian sources into Lake Winnipeg

Starting point and fiscal year: 29.7 tonnes in 2007-2017

Target: Target to be made available in 2023-24

Note: The Lake Winnipeg Basin Program is a means by which the Government of Canada can work with others to support actions that reduce nutrient loading and demonstrate the type of projects/activities that can be effective.

Phosphorus is the key nutrient associated with harmful and nuisance algal blooms and Lake Winnipeg is the receiving water body of excess nutrient loading in the basin. The current target of number of tonnes (TBD) by 2032-33 (March) builds on the nutrient reduction achievements since 2007.

Through the Freshwater Action Plan, ECCC combines science and action to address the most significant water quality challenges affecting Lake Winnipeg and its basin. ECCC supports nutrient-reduction efforts in the Lake Winnipeg Basin through collaboration and engagement of Indigenous Peoples on freshwater issues, and through the implementation of the Canada-Manitoba Memorandum of Understanding Respecting Lake Winnipeg and the Lake Winnipeg Basin through funding provided by the Freshwater Action Plan. In collaboration with partners and through financial support to stakeholders, ECCC enables nutrient reductions from high-yielding sources and supports collaborative approaches and engagement of Indigenous Peoples on efforts that improve water quality and the ecosystem health of the Lake Winnipeg.

Relevant targets or ambitions:

GIF Target: UN SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation (Target 6.3, Target 6.6)

Indicator result: 1.81 tonnes

Notes: This indicator falls under the responsibility of the Canada Water Agency. A target of 25 tonnes annually by 2032–33 has been established.

Work to protect Canada’s freshwater and priority ecosystems such as the St. Lawrence River and other major river basins in Atlantic, Western, and Northern ecosystems, through sound science and regulatory tools and in collaboration with Indigenous and other partners across Canada.

Program: Canada Water Agency

Performance indicator: Percentage of indicators in the “State of the St. Lawrence River” five-year report which show a trend of being stable or improving

Starting point and fiscal year: 85% in 2019 (2014-2019)

Target: At least 90% in 2024-2025 (2019-2024)

Note: This indicator is a good measure of the effectiveness of programs dedicated to improving the environment.

By supporting and advancing governance in specific basins, ECCC enables the sharing of information, thus enhancing capacity via funded projects, increased coordination of effort, and engagement among stakeholders from various sectors. ECCC also supports coordination and oversight to ecosystem management, develops and shares science, and funds proposals that leverage contributions from other sources. The department engages and supports coordinated effort among diverse stakeholders, including other levels of government and watershed governance bodies in Canada and the U.S., Indigenous organizations, non-government organizations and industry, as well as post-secondary institutions including through: The Canada-Quebec Agreement on the St. Lawrence 2011–2026 (the St. Lawrence Action Plan 2011-2026); The Atlantic Ecosystems Initiatives; and The Wolastoq/Saint John River initiative (Freshwater Action Plan, Other Major Basins). The Atlantic Ecosystems Initiative (AEI) supports projects that improve the health, productivity, and long-term sustainability of aquatic ecosystems in Atlantic Canada focusing on the Wolastoq/Saint John River as part of the Freshwater Action Plan. AEI projects leverage funds, build extensive partnerships, and facilitate collaborative action, resulting in projects that contribute to FSDS Goal 6 by reducing nutrients, plastics, and bacteria in priority Atlantic Canadian watersheds.

Relevant targets or ambitions:

GIF Target: UN SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation (Target 6.3, Target 6.6)

Indicator result: 76%

Notes: This indicator falls under the responsibility of the Canada Water Agency. The overall status in the 2024 Overview, which reported on data collected between 2018 and 2022, represents a slight deterioration relative to the 2019 Overview, in which the river’s overall status was rated as “moderate-good”. However, four indicators rated as “moderate-good” in the 2019 report were omitted in the 2024 report. When only the indicators included in both overviews are considered, the overall status remains unchanged.

Modelling efforts are underway to better inform future actions, river restoration and protection measures will be carried out, and indigenous communities will be engaged to include traditional knowledge into our approach. These actions are expected to be implemented starting in the 2025-2026 fiscal year and continue into the renewed St. Lawrence Action Plan post-2026.

Performance indicator: Average number of non-federal partnerships established during the implementation of the St. Lawrence Action Plan (SLAP) activities and projects which are not part of the Community Interaction Program

Starting point and fiscal year 1 in 2021-22

Target: At least 1.6 by 2024-25

Note: The State of the St. Lawrence

Monitoring Program (SSLMP) launched in 2003, allows federal and provincial partners to pool their expertise in regular reports on the state and evolution of the St. Lawrence River.

The resulting environmental data and information are based on the follow-up of 21 to 24 indicators and used to facilitate decision-making and determine appropriate measures for promoting St. Lawrence conservation.

The main objective of this monitoring program is to report on the state and evolution of the St. Lawrence using scientific information by:

coordinating the environmental monitoring activities carried out on the St. Lawrence by the participants, selected based on their relevance for the entire St. Lawrence and its riparian zone.

optimizing the participants’ acquisition of environmental data on the St. Lawrence to avoid duplication of efforts; and maximizing the environmental information that is obtained by interpreting it in light of the data collected through other SSLMP monitoring activities.

Indicator result: 1.6

Notes: This indicator falls under the responsibility of the Canada Water Agency.

Performance indicator: Average number of non-federal partnerships established during the implementation of the St. Lawrence Action Plan (SLAP) activities and projects which are part of the Community Interaction Program

Starting point and fiscal year: 5 in 2021-22

Target: At least 5 by 2024-25

Note: The Community Interaction Program (CIP) under the St. Lawrence Action Plan provides funding for projects led by Indigenous communities and not-for-profit organizations to conserve biodiversity, improve water quality and ecosystems of the St. Lawrence River, and ensure its sustainable use. This program works to ensure the improvement of ecological health of the St Lawrence through partnerships, thus directly contributing to the FSDS contributing action.

Indicator result: 5.3

Notes: This indicator falls under the responsibility of the Canada Water Agency.

Implement the EcoAction Community Funding Program which provides up to 50% in matching funding to not-for-profit and non-government organizations to undertake local projects that will help protect freshwater quality.

Program: Canada Water Agency

Performance indicator: Number of Canadians engaged in activities funded by the Eco-Action Program

Starting point and fiscal year: 123,880 in 2017-18

Target: At least 794,292 in 2023-24

Note: This indicator is a good measure of the FSDS Goal 6, as it demonstrates the Government of Canada’s commitment to clean and healthy lakes and rivers by providing funding support to community groups for action-based projects that provide opportunities for community engagement to deliver projects that produce measurable, positive impacts on the environment, as well as build capacity in the communities.

By supporting local ecosystem improvement projects, ECCC will engage Canadians in long-term sustainability of healthy and productive ecosystems.

ECCC provides funding to partner-led projects (through the St. Lawrence Action Plan) and other regional initiatives that restore and protect water quality and ecosystem health. Project funding is leveraged by encouraging proponents to secure other sources of financial and in-kind support to maximize the impact of their project(s).

Relevant targets or ambitions:

GIF Target: UN SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation (Target 6.3, Target 6.B)

Indicator result: 1,206,497

Notes: This indicator falls under the responsibility of the Canada Water Agency.

Provide quality assured water quantity data and information (river flow and level) to various stakeholders to assist them in water management, planning and related decision-making.

Program: Hydrological Services

Performance indicator: Percentage of program partners rating their satisfaction with Environment and Climate Change Canada’s hydrological services as 8 out of 10 or higher

Starting point and fiscal year: 69% in 2022-23

Target: At least 80% annually

Note: This measure is suitable for the contributing action “better understanding lake and river ecosystems” because water quantity information is primarily used by Provinces and Territories, other government organizations and targeted stakeholders to support water management and decision-making.

By contributing expertise and conducting and sharing research and monitoring data to decision makers, ECCC enables sound decisions and appropriate actions to protect and preserve the quantity of Canada’s freshwater.

Relevant targets or ambitions:

GIF Target: UN SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation (Target 6.5)

Indicator result: 94%

Implement the Wastewater Systems Effluent Regulations

Administer, enforce, implement a risk-based approach, and promote compliance with federal laws.

Program: Aquatic Ecosystems Health, Substances and Waste Management

Performance indicator: Percentage of wastewater systems where effluent quality standards are achieved

Starting point and fiscal year: 77% in 2015-16

Target: 100% by 2040-41

Note: In Canada, municipal wastewater is the largest point source of pollution entering lakes and rivers. Ensuring municipal wastewater treatment plant effluents comply with Wastewater System Effluent Regulations reduces the risk of contaminants in the effluent harming aquatic plants and animals.

Ensuring high compliance rates with the Fisheries Act pollution prevention provisions and with FA regulations including the Wastewater Systems Effluent Regulations (WSER), the Pulp and Paper Effluent Regulations (PPER), and the Metal and Diamond Mining Effluent Regulations (MDMER); the Environment Effects Monitoring (EEM) requirements under the PPER and MDMER; and the Experimental Lakes Area (ELA) Regulations; to help improve water quality in lakes and rivers by such contributing to the FSDS goal.

Relevant targets or ambitions:

GIF Target: UN SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation (Target 6.3)

Indicator result: 78%

Notes: For fiscal year 2025-26, this indicator is the responsibility of the Canada Water Agency.

The Canada Water Agency Program (CWAP) aims to contribute to the integrated management of Canada’s priority ecosystems, including improving their water quality and restoring them to a healthy, productive, and sustainable state. Priority ecosystems under the Freshwater Action Plan include the Great Lakes, Lake Winnipeg, Lake of the Woods, St. Lawrence River, Fraser River, Saint John River, Mackenzie River, and Lake Simcoe. Key science activities include research on the effects of contaminants on aquatic ecosystems, and monitoring Canada’s freshwater and shellfish harvesting areas. The Program contributes coordination and oversight to ecosystem management, develops and shares science, and funds proposals that restore and protect freshwater quality and ecosystem health, while also leveraging contributions from other sources. It engages and supports coordinated efforts among diverse stakeholders, including other levels of government and watershed governance bodies in Canada and the U.S., Indigenous organizations, nongovernment organizations and industry, as well as post-secondary institutions. Other useful information on water quality and ecosystems:

• Natural resources
• Water and the environment
• Cleaning up our lakes and rivers
• Protecting freshwater

These ECCC programs contribute to advancing:

Canadian Indicator Framework (CIF) ambitions:

•  6.4 Canadians have access to drinking water and use it in a sustainable manner
  • Target: No specific target

Global Indicator Framework (GIF) targets:

• 6.3 By 2030, improve water quality by reducing pollution, eliminating dumping and minimizing release of hazardous chemicals and materials, halving the proportion of untreated wastewater and substantially increasing recycling and safe reuse globally
• 6.5 By 2030, implement integrated water resources management at all levels, including through transboundary cooperation as appropriate
• 6.5.1 Degree of integrated water resources management implementation (0–100)
• 6.5.2 Proportion of transboundary basin area with an operational arrangement for water cooperation
• 6.6 By 2020, protect and restore water-related ecosystems, including mountains, forests, wetlands, rivers, aquifers and lakes
• 6.6.1 Change in the extent of water-related ecosystems over time
• 6.a By 2030, expand international cooperation and capacity-building support to developing countries in water- and sanitation-related activities and programmes, including water harvesting, desalination, water efficiency, wastewater treatment, recycling, and reuse technologies
• 6.b Support and strengthen the participation of local communities in improving water and sanitation management.

The Canada Water Agency (CWA): CWA continued to focus efforts on improving, restoring, and protecting the Great Lakes, St. Lawrence River, Lake Winnipeg and other lakes and rivers of national significance. The Agency also continued to support public engagement in citizen science and water conservation and protection activities through the various freshwater ecosystems initiatives.

In 2024-25, over $80 million in funding was committed for 56 projects under the Great Lakes Freshwater Ecosystem Initiative. This investment was targeted toward improving water quality and ecosystem health in Great Lakes Areas of Concern, helping prevent toxic and nuisance algae in Lake Erie, reducing the release of harmful chemicals, restoring water quality and ecosystem health in Great Lakes coastal areas, including coastal wetlands, supporting community-based science, and strengthening Indigenous inclusion and participation in Great Lakes governance, stewardship and science.

In 2024-25, the CWA invested over $3.55 million over 2 years to support 21 partner-led projects that will reduce phosphorus loading to Lake Winnipeg and advance Indigenous engagement in agency priorities.

The CWA distributed $781,376 in funding for 18 projects under the St. Lawrence Action Plan (SLAP) Community Interaction Program (CIP). These projects involved riverside communities, including First Nations. Specifically, the projects funded were intended among other things to protect important ecological systems (i.e., wetlands, rivers, coastal environments) and restore aquatic and riparian habitats

The Environmental Damages Fund (EDF) is a Specified Purpose Account (SPA) administered by ECCC to direct funds received from fines, penalties, court orders and voluntary payments to priority projects that will benefit Canada’s natural environment.

Other useful information on the EDF:

• Environmental conservation and protection
• Environmental funding

The Environmental Damages Fund contributed to approximately 300 hectares of natural environments being restored and/or enhanced.

The Management of Substances and Waste Program aims to reduce threats to the health of Canadians and their environment from harmful substances and waste through various actions and activities including stakeholder engagement, information gathering, research, monitoring, tracking, and reporting of harmful substances, and assessing and managing their risks to the environment. Other useful information on substances and waste management:

• Pollution and waste management
• Managing and reducing waste
• Managing substances in the environment
• Plastic waste and pollution reduction

The Management of Substances and Waste Program: ECCC protected Canadians’ water through the administration and enforcement of the pollution prevention provisions of the Fisheries Act, and its regulations, including the Wastewater Systems Effluent Regulations, the Metal and Diamond Mines Effluent Regulations and the Pulp and Paper Effluent Regulations. In addition, ECCC advanced the modernization of the Pulp and Paper Effluent Regulations and published final amendments to the Wastewater Systems Effluent Regulations in Canada Gazette, Part I in June 2024.

The Canada Water Agency will work with provinces, territories, Indigenous Peoples, local authorities, scientists, and other partners to support the implementation of the Freshwater Action Plan, find the best ways to keep our water safe, clean, and well managed for all Canadians, and coordinate efforts toward this common goal. One of the first priorities of the agency will be to begin the work of modernizing the Canada Water Act to reflect the changing reality of fresh water in Canada, including the impacts of climate change and the importance of Indigenous rights. As stewards of these lands and waters for millennia, consultation and cooperation with Indigenous Peoples is critical.

The Freshwater Action Plan will support regionally specific measures to further protect Canada's freshwater reserves across the country from Lake Winnipeg to the St. Lawrence River and the Great Lakes, to the Mackenzie River. The Plan will continue to improve water quality and respond to the impacts of climate change, including through monitoring, assessment, and restoration work. The Canada Water Agency will lead the delivery of major elements of the Freshwater Action Plan.

The Canada Water Agency continued to increase public engagement in freshwater protection through citizen science, and by funding actions through the EcoAction Program and the previously mentioned ecosystems initiatives (e.g. Great Lakes, Lake Winnipeg, and the St. Lawrence River). The EcoAction Community Funding Program engaged 1.2 million Canadians in protecting freshwater through community-led actions and in increasing environmental awareness in the community.

Play a leading role to promote clean and renewable energy

Continue to demonstrate a strong commitment to international leadership on clean growth and climate change.

Program: International Environment and Climate Action

Performance indicator: Percentage of decisions or outcomes at multilateral decision-making body meetings (such as the UNFCCC, G7, G20, and UNEP, etc.) that reflect Canadian objectives

Starting point and fiscal year: 86% in 2022-23

Target: At least 70% annually

ECCC takes a leadership role, contributes expertise to key international climate and economic fora, strengthen Canada’s capacity to contribute to a worldwide reduction of greenhouse gases (GHGs) to meet global targets, by:

• Leading Canada’s participation in the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) with the aim of strengthening global efforts to implement the Paris Agreement.
• Continuing to engage internationally to advance ambitious and inclusive climate action, including through ensuring Indigenous Peoples are engaged in developing international climate policy, and by promoting gender equality and the role of women in climate action around the world.
• Continuing efforts to ensure that all Parties to the Paris Agreement undertake ambitious actions under a common framework reflecting the highest standards of transparency and environmental integrity;
• Promoting Canadian climate and environmental objectives in regional trade agreements and international fora such as the G7, G20, OECD, UNEP-UNEA, UNGA, Francophonie, Commonwealth, the World Meteorological Organization and in other Ministerial meetings; and
• Leading by example on supporting the deployment of clean and renewable energy through actions like existing regulations to phase out unabated coal power by 2030, and the development of new Clean Electricity Regulations.
• Working with international partners will contribute to the Paris Agreement and the delivery of Canada’s $2.65B and $5.3B international climate finance commitments to support developing countries in tackling climate change.

Relevant targets or ambitions:

GIF Target: SDG 13: Climate Action (Target 13.A)

Indicator result: 88.43%

Promote the global reduction of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions through the Powering Past Coal Alliance (PPCA), co-founded by Canada and the United Kingdom.

Program: International Environment and Climate Action

Performance indicator: Engagement and advocacy activities to advance energy transition and coal phase-out outcomes

Starting point and fiscal year: Indicator established in 2018-19, revised in 2024-25

Target: Listing type/category of stakeholders met annually/bilateral and multilateral engagement opportunities leveraged to advocate for coal phase-out.

ECCC will continue to advance Canada’s leadership role in the Powering Past Coal Alliance, which calls on governments and organizations to phase out unabated coal power in a timeframe compatible with the temperature goal of the Paris Agreement (i.e., phase-out by 2030 or OECD and EU, and by 2040 in the rest of the world). Transitioning to a low-carbon economy will require cleaner sources of energy, and coal phase-out is a key part of Canada’s plan to reduce its greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.

Relevant targets or ambitions:

GIF Target: SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy (Target 7.2, Target 7.A)

SDG 13: Climate Action (Target 13.2)

Indicator result: Government, International Organizations, Private Sector, Think Tanks Stakeholders

Implement recommendations of the Arctic Council’s Expert Group on Black Carbon and Methane to contribute to the achievement of the collective goal on black carbon, including recommendations to switch to renewable and clean technologies.

Program: Clean Growth and Climate Change Mitigation; Air Quality

Performance indicator: Percentage reduction in black carbon emissions

Starting point and fiscal year: Annually recalculated 2013 calendar year emissions levels

Target: At least 25% by 2025-26

Canada contributed to the development of the Arctic Council Expert Group on Black Carbon and Methane’s recommendations, among which is a recommendation to reduce black carbon by stimulating the shift to alternative vehicle technologies and modes of transportation and through efficiency measures. Implementation of this recommendation will increase Canadians’ access to clean energy. These actions contribute to FSDS Goal 7 and the Clean Power Generation Target, as well as to FSDS Goals 11 and 13.

Relevant targets or ambitions:

GIF Target: UN SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy (Target 7.a)

UN SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities (Target 11.6)

UN SDG 13: Climate Action (Target 13.2)

Indicator result: 40%

Other

Develop Clean Electricity Regulations (CER) to contribute to achieving a net-zero electricity grid.

Program: Clean Growth and Climate Change Mitigation

Performance indicator: Number of final regulations published in the Canada Gazette, Part 2, in 2024

Starting point and fiscal year: 0 in 2022-23

Target: 1 in 2024-25

The Clean Electricity Regulations will support the achievement of net-zero electricity grid. It is designed to enable Canada to respond to growing electricity demand over the coming decades, while ensuring supply is clean, reliable, and affordable.

Relevant targets or ambitions:

GIF Target: UN SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure (Target 9.4)

UN SDG 13: Climate Action (Target 13.2)

Indicator result: 1

Work with domestic and international partners on energy efficiency

Investments delivered through the Federation of Canadian Municipalities’ Green Municipal Fund to increase energy efficiency in detached residential, multi-unit residential, and municipal buildings.

Program: Clean Growth and Climate Change Mitigation

Performance indicator: Cumulative Gigajoules (GJ) of annual energy savings

Starting point and fiscal year: 0 in 2005

Target: N/A^{Footnote 2}

Support the development, verification and demonstration of technologies that reduce greenhouse gas emissions by providing funding, strategic direction, governance, and partnerships for clean technology investment initiatives such as the Green Municipal Fund.

Relevant targets or ambitions:

GIF Target: UN SDG 7: Ensure access to affordable, reliable, sustainable, and modern energy for all

(Target 7.3)

Indicator result: 990,000 GJ

Notes: Results for this indicator are reported in arrears. The 2024-25 result represents 2023-24 data. According to its latest 2023-24 annual report, the GMF has achieved 990,000 GJ of energy savings per year since its inception in 2005. (Additional information here)

The Green Municipal Fund is not currently required to set official targets for environmental results achieved by their projects and programmes, as per the GMF-Government of Canada 2023 Funding Agreement. The results are shared to support tracking over time.

Develop and update codes and standards

Implement Clean Fuel Regulations to reduce Canada’s greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions through the increased use of lower-carbon fuels and alternative technologies.

Program: Clean Growth and Climate Change Mitigation

Performance indicator: Reduction in intensity of gasoline (gCO2e/MJ)

Starting point and fiscal year: 95gCO2e/MJ in 2022-23

Target: At least 14gCO2e/MJ by 2030 calendar year

The Clean Fuel Regulations will reduce the lifecycle carbon intensity of liquid fossil fuels (gasoline & diesel) used in Canada (i.e., at all stages of fuel production and use – from extraction through processing, distribution, and end-use). They will also support the production of cleaner fuels in Canada and incent clean technologies.

Relevant targets or ambitions:

GIF Target: UN SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure (Target 9.4)

UN SDG 13: Climate Action (Target 13.2)

Indicator result: 3.5gCO2e/MJ

Notes: Compliance with the 2023 compliance period (July 1 - December 31, 2023) was reported on July 31 and December 15 of 2024.

All regulated parties (gasoline and diesel suppliers) that reported complied with the 3.5gCO2e/MJ requirement for the period.

Performance indicator: Reduction in intensity of diesel (gCO2e/MJ)

Starting point and fiscal year: 93gCO2e/MJ in 2022-23

Target: At least 14gCO2e/MJ by 2030 calendar year

The Clean Fuel Regulations will reduce the lifecycle carbon intensity of liquid fossil fuels (gasoline & diesel) used in Canada (i.e., at all stages of fuel production and use – from extraction through processing, distribution, and end-use). They will also support the production of cleaner fuels in Canada and incent clean technologies.

Relevant targets or ambitions:

GIF Target: UN SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure (Target 9.4)

UN SDG 13: Climate Action (Target 13.2)

Indicator result: 3.5gCO2e/MJ

Notes: Compliance with the 2023 compliance period (July 1 - December 31, 2023) was reported on July 31 and December 15 of 2024.

All regulated parties (gasoline and diesel suppliers) that reported, complied with the 3.5gCO2e/MJ requirement for the period.

Other

Develop, maintain, and expand the Government of Canada’s Fuel Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) Model (the Model).

Program: Clean Growth and Climate Change Mitigation

Performance indicator: Percentage of Government of Canada initiatives that are required to use the Model and that have implemented it

Starting point and fiscal year: 100% in 2022-23

Target: 100% by 2023-24

The Model helps to support the delivery of regulations and programs as part of Canada’s actions on climate change. For example, the Clean Fuel Regulations uses the Model to determine the CI of fuels, material inputs and energy sources for credit creation.

The Model is a tool to calculate the life cycle carbon intensity (CI) of fuels and energy sources used and produced in Canada.

Relevant targets or ambitions:

GIF Target: UN SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure (Target 9.4)

Indicator result: 100%

Attract and scale up sustainable finance in Canada

Deliver the Leadership Fund, the Challenge Fund, the Indigenous Leadership Fund, the Implementation Readiness Fund of the Low Carbon Economy Fund to support businesses and Canadians in reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and driving clean economic growth. Deliver climate programs to return carbon pollution pricing proceeds to support priority action areas, such as industrial decarbonisation projects and greening the electricity sector.

Program: Clean Growth and Climate Change Mitigation

Performance indicator: Annual reduction, in Mt^{Footnote 3}, of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions

Starting point and fiscal year: 0Mt in 2018-19^{Footnote 4Footnote 5}

Target: At least 8 Mt by 2030 calendar year

Note: This indicator measures the effects of direct action with partners, including business, in mitigating climate change under the Low Carbon Economy Fund (original and recapitalized).

The Low Carbon Economy Fund provides funding for eligible partners (such as private enterprises, not for profit organizations, Indigenous communities, municipalities, provinces, territories, and others) to undertake projects that decrease energy usage, reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and support clean growth.

Relevant targets or ambitions:

GIF Target: UN SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure (Target 9.4)

Indicator result: 4.7 Mt

Notes: This indicator measures the annual update on the projected reduction in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in year 2030, in megatonnes (Mt). This definition applies consistently across all fiscal year results, including those for 2023–24 and 2024–25.

The Low Carbon Economy Fund (LCEF) has faced performance challenges due to COVID-19 disruptions and subsequent economic pressures, including inflation, rising interest rates, supply chain issues, and labour shortages. These factors led to delays and cancellations, particularly among higher-ambition projects.

ECCC continues to support climate action through the recapitalized LCEF (LCEF 2), with 56 signed agreements totaling $442.6 million and projected to reduce emissions by 0.8 Mt in 2030. All funded projects are expected to be completed by the 2028–29 fiscal year.

Other

Deliver a series of Canadian Plastics Innovation Challenges to support the growth of clean technologies that reduce plastic waste.

Program: Aquatic Ecosystems Health, Substances and Waste Management

Performance indicator: Cumulative number of prototypes developed

Starting point and fiscal year: 4 in 2018-19

Target: 7 by 2026-27

Note: This indicator will show the extent of ECCC’s Plastics Innovation Challenges funding to facilitate the early development, testing of prototypes, demonstration, and the commercialization of clean technologies to support sustainable plastics products and clean technologies.

ECCC efforts to support the development, demonstration, commercialization, deployment, adoption, and export of plastics clean technologies that reduce environmental impacts, contribute to meeting the goal of clean growth, faster clean technology innovation, and support the transition to a low-carbon economy.

Relevant targets or ambitions:

GIF Target: UN SDG 9: Build resilient infrastructure, promote inclusive and sustainable industrialization and foster innovation (Target 9.5)

Indicator result: 6

Notes: Results are based, in part, on the progress of innovative projects being developed by small and medium-sized Canadian enterprises. Projects are required to successfully pass through the proof of concept phase before being eligible to apply for the prototype development phase. Successfully completing the proof of concept phase does not guarantee that a project receives funding for the prototype development phase. Final decisions on the number of prototypes funded is made by ECCC on the basis of factors such as evaluation results, departmental priorities and availability of funds. ECCC oversaw the development of nine proof of concept projects in 2024-25. Two of these projects received funding for full prototype development. Since 2018, ECCC has overseen the development of 6 prototypes developments. While ECCC has overseen the development of 22 proof of concept projects and 6 of these have led to prototype developments since 2018, there are no ongoing or upcoming proof of concept projects which could lead to prototype development, making achieving this target by the expected achievement date of end of fiscal year 2026-27 unlikely. There are no further planned actions to help reach the targeted number of prototypes at this time. 

The Clean Growth and Climate Change Mitigation Program’s activities include supporting, coordinating, developing, and implementing Canada’s environmental and climate change policies, programs, regulations and plans to reduce greenhouse gas emissions (GHGs). This Program supports the Government of Canada’s commitment to meeting Canada’s GHG emission reduction target of 40 to 45% below 2005 levels by 2030 and net-zero emissions by 2050. ECCC is developing a Clean Electricity Regulations (CER) that will help drive progress towards a net-zero electricity grid. The CER is part of a suite of measures from the 2030 Emissions Reduction Plan to move the country’s electricity sector to net-zero, as an enabler for broader decarbonisation to meet the 2030 and 2050 climate targets.

Other useful information on clean growth and climate change mitigation:

• Canadian Net-Zero Emissions Accountability Act
• Canada’s 2030 Emissions Reduction Plan
• 2023 Progress Report on the 2030 Emissions Reduction Plan

These ECCC programs contribute to advancing:

Canadian Indicator Framework (CIF) ambitions:

• 9.1 Canada fosters sustainable research and innovation
  • Target: No specific target
• 9.5 Canadians have access to modern and sustainable infrastructure
  • Target: No specific target

Global Indicator Framework (GIF) targets:

• 9.1 Develop quality, reliable, sustainable, and resilient infrastructure, including regional and trans-border infrastructure, to support economic development and human well-being, with a focus on affordable and equitable access for all
• 9.4 By 2030, upgrade infrastructure and retrofit industries to make them sustainable, with increased resource-use efficiency and greater adoption of clean and environmentally sound technologies and industrial processes, with all countries acting in accordance with their respective capabilities
• 9.5 Enhance scientific research, upgrade the technological capabilities of industrial sectors in all countries, in particular developing countries, including, by 2030, encouraging innovation and substantially increasing the number of research and development workers per 1M people and public and private research and development spending
• 9.b Support domestic technology development, research, and innovation in developing countries, including by ensuring a conducive policy environment for, inter alia, industrial diversification and value addition to commodities.

The Clean Growth and Climate Change Mitigation Program: The Government announced ambitious measures to support achievement of Canada’s greenhouse gas (GHG) targets. This includes launching the Canada Public Transit Fund that will provide $3 billion per year for public transit and active transportation infrastructure, capping and reducing GHG emissions from the oil and gas sector at a pace and scale necessary to contribute to achieving Canada’s 2030 and 2050 climate targets, reducing methane emissions from the oil and gas sector by at least 75 percent relative to 2012 levels by 2030, and accelerating the transition to a net-zero electricity grid through the Clean Electricity Regulations and complementary investments.

Management of Substances and Waste Program aims to reduce threats to the health of Canadians and their environment from harmful substances and waste through various actions and activities including regulatory regimes for hazardous waste, hazardous recyclable materials, e-waste, and wastewater, all of which affect infrastructure in Canada.

Other useful information on substances and waste management:

• Pollution and waste management
• Managing and reducing waste
• Managing substances in the environment
• Plastic waste and pollution reduction.

Management of Substances and Waste Program: 100% of risk management actions were taken in a timely manner to protect Canada’s environment from chemicals found to be a risk to the environment. Implementation of Canada’s obligations under multilateral environmental agreements on air pollution continued in 2024-25.

Implement the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act

Provide Indigenous cultural competency training.

Program: Internal Services

Performance indicator: Percentage of staff who have completed the mandatory courses on “Reflect on Cultural Bias: Indigenous Perspective” and “Taking Steps Towards Indigenous Reconciliation”

Starting point and fiscal year: Launched (0%) in 2022-23

Target: 100% annually

Note: The 100% target is aspirational noting that employee’s movement affects these metrics. There is not enough data to provide a starting point at this time, in the next round of reporting we will be able to provide a full baseline.

Public servants are in a unique position to help build respectful relationships with Indigenous Peoples in Canada. This action encourages public service employees to increase their cultural competency skills and awareness of issues related to First Nations, Inuit and Métis in Canada, and their knowledge of the UN Declaration. This action contributes to the development of necessary cultural competency knowledge and skills to implement the UN Declaration.

Relevant targets or ambitions:

GIF Target: UN SDG 10: Advance Reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples and Take Action to Reduce Inequality (Target 10.3)

Indicator result: Reflect on Cultural Bias Indigenous Perspective: 77%

Taking Steps Towards Indigenous Reconciliation: 71%

Notes: The result represents data as of June 9, 2025. The completion rate for mandatory training was affected by the introduction of a new suite of mandatory courses and operational demands, which likely affected employees’ capacity to complete all training on time. The ECCC Learning Space platform has now been implemented to improve monitoring and help employees easily identify outstanding courses, which is expected to improve results in the next reporting cycle.

Publish the National Pollutant Release Inventory Indigenous Series

Communicate with Canadians through the National Pollutant Release Inventory’s Indigenous Series to continually improve understanding of the environmental challenges faced by Indigenous communities across Canada related to air, water, and land pollutants.

Program: Aquatic Ecosystems Heath, Substances and Waste Management

Performance indicator: National Pollutant Release Inventory’s Indigenous Series (published on Canada.ca) is updated

Starting point and fiscal year: Published in 2020

Target: Updated by 2027

Note: This indicator measures the publication of data on pollutants which helps Canadians access key information to help them make better decisions for their health.

By collecting and sharing data on air pollutants and harmful substances from more than 7,500 facilities across Canada through the National Pollutant Release Inventory (NPRI), ECCC will inform evidence-based decision-making to protect the health of Canadians and the environment from harmful substances as well as assist Canadians in making informed decisions about pollution in their community. The National Pollutant Release Inventory’s Indigenous Series provides a starting point for analyses, engagement, and improvements.

Relevant targets or ambitions:

GIF Target: UN SDG 10: Advance Reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples and Take Action to Reduce Inequality (Target 10.3)

Indicator result: N/A

Notes: Final updates will be published by December 2027.

ECCC will continue to consult the Environment and Climate Change Youth Council, a diverse group of young Canadians who advise the Minister and ECCC on key environmental and climate issues to inform decisions by the Government of Canada. Members are passionate about protecting the environment and taking climate action. By engaging in their communities, and beyond, they are demonstrating leadership and are inspiring others to do the same.

ECCC promotes the use of its Youth Engagement Framework throughout the Department. The Framework aligns with Canada’s Youth Policy and is designed to enable ECCC to effectively engage with youth by providing recommendations, guiding principles, tools, resources, and proposed initiatives to help ensure meaningful engagement with youth.

These ECCC programs contribute to advancing:

Global Indicator Framework (GIF) targets:

• 10.2 By 2030 empower and promote the social, economic, and political inclusion of all irrespective of age, sex, disability, race, ethnicity, origin, religion or economic or other status.
• 4.7: By 2030, ensure that all learners acquire the knowledge and skills needed to promote sustainable development, including, among others, through education for sustainable development and sustainable lifestyles, human rights, gender equality, promotion of a culture of peace and non-violence, global citizenship, and appreciation of cultural diversity and of culture’s contribution to sustainable development.

The recruitment process for the 2024-2026 cohort of the Environment and Climate Change Youth Council (ECCYC) was launched in early 2024. Applications were submitted and reviewed, and 12 successful candidates representing a diverse group of young Canadians were selected in Fall 2024. The second ECCYC cohort was officially announced in Spring 2025. ECCYC members provide advice to the Minister and senior officials at ECCC, adding diverse youth voices to policy and decision-making within government.

ECCC’s Youth Engagement Framework for 2024-2027 has been completed. The Framework promotes key tools and resources for engaging youth and incorporating youth considerations into policy and program development and implementation (e.g., Youth Impact Analysis Tool, Child Rights Impact Assessment Tool). The Child Rights Impact Assessment Tool continues to be promoted across the Department.

ECCC has engaged with other federal departments and external partners to deepen collective understanding of environmental and climate change impacts on children. Regular environmental scanning and monitoring also occurs to help advance United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UN CRC) recommendations ahead of Canada’s next appearance at the UN CRC. These activities are helping to ensure meaningful youth engagement at ECCC, which supports informed decisions, better policies, programs and regulations.

Canada is a signatory to the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child, a human rights treaty created by the United Nations that provides a full list of rights for all children up to the age of 18. Canada ratified the Convention in 1991. ECCC participates in the Interdepartmental Working Group on Children’s Rights (IWGCR) led by the Department of Justice and Public Health Agency of Canada. Following Canada’s Appearance before the UN Committee on the Rights of the Child (UN CRC) in May 2022, a Concluding Observations Report was published, outlining recommendations for Canada to address. ECCC has been identified as a department lead on four recommendations relating to children and the environment and climate, (awareness raising among children; data collection on the impact of climate change on children; reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions; improved impact assessments). ECCC is working to advance these recommendations to be well-positioned to report on progress during Canada’s next appearance at UN CRC, expected in 2027.

Develop, administer and enforce measures addressing air pollution

Monitor the impact of air pollution on ecosystems.

Program: Air Quality

Performance indicator: Exceedance of ecosystem critical loads of acidity

Starting point and fiscal year: Three-year average levels for 2014-2016

Target: Downward trend in three-year average from 2014-16 levels

Note: Deposition of acidifying air pollutants to lakes and soils can exceed levels at which damage is expected (critical loads). Critical load exceedances are not compatible with ecosystem health. Healthy ecosystems help ensure sustainable communities. Deposition will be estimated based on air quality monitoring and modelling and compared with previously determined critical load values for lakes and soils to calculate exceedance areas.

Monitoring the impact of air pollution on lakes and soils will enable informed decisions to support healthy ecosystems, which in turn support healthy, sustainable communities. As such, this action supports FSDS Goal 11 and the Air Quality Target.

Relevant targets or ambitions:

GIF Target: UN SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities (Target 11.6)

Indicator result: N/A

Notes: Laboratory analysis was delayed by COVID shutdowns and instrumentation issues. These analyses are now completed and data review is expected to be completed by September 2025. The baseline value (2014-2016) was determined, but revisions are needed to include the deposition effects of emissions from wildfires to ensure alignment in results going forward. New calculations of critical load exceedances for the revised baseline value and for the first result (2019-2021), are expected by December 2025.

Develop, administer, and enforce regulations and non-regulatory instruments to limit emissions of air pollutants, including fine particulate matter (PM2.5) including black carbon, sulphur oxides (SOx), nitrogen oxides (NOx), and volatile organic compounds (VOCs).

Program: Air Quality

Performance indicator: Percentage reduction in PM2.5 emissions from industrial, transportation and other sources

Starting point and fiscal year: Annually recalculated 2006-08 average emissions

Target: Continued positive trend (in percentage reduction)

ECCC will reduce air pollutant emissions that are harmful to human health and the environment by developing, administering, and enforcing regulations and applying other measures, such as:

• Continuing to implement and emend as appropriate multiple vehicle and engine air pollutant regulations to reduce emissions.
• Administering the various fuels regulations to reduce sulphur, benzene, lead, and other contaminants from conventional fuels.
• Administering the Reduction in the Release of Volatile Organic Compounds Regulations (Petroleum Sector).
• Developing and administering VOC regulations for petroleum liquid storage and loading operations
• Continuing to administer the Multi-Sector Air Pollutants Regulations (MSAPR) and various non-regulatory instruments for industrial sectors and equipment.
• Administering the coal-fired electricity generation regulations.
• Administering the Off-Road Compression-Ignition (Mobile and Stationary) and Large Spark-Ignition Engine Emission Regulations.
• Administering the Volatile Organic Compound Concentration Limits for Certain Products Regulations.
• Administering and amending the Volatile Organic Compounds Concentration Limits for Architectural Coatings Regulations and the Volatile Organic Compounds Concentration Limits for Automobile Refinishing Products Regulations; and
• Implementing the renewed federal agenda on the reductions of VOC emissions from consumer and commercial products (published in July 2022), including the possible development of regulations or non-regulatory instruments for industrial and commercial adhesives and sealants, portable fuel containers, and the activity of printing on plastic packaging.

Methane is a short-lived climate pollutant that contributes to climate change and air pollution. The Regulations Respecting Reduction in the Release of Methane and Certain Volatile Organic Compounds (Upstream Oil and Gas Sector) and proposed regulatory amendments are expected to make a significant contribution towards Canada’s target of a 75% reduction in oil and gas methane emission below 2012 levels by 2030. The regulations will also reduce volatile organic compound emissions which are harmful to human health.

These actions contribute to FSDS Goal 11 and the Air Quality Target and to FSDS Goal 13, since emissions reductions improve air quality in cities and communities, and help to address climate change.

Relevant targets or ambitions:

GIF Target: UN SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities (Target 11.6)

UN SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being (Target 3.9)

UN SDG 13: Climate Action (Target 13.2)

Indicator result: 35%

Performance indicator: Percentage reduction in SOx emissions from industrial, transportation and other sources

Starting point and fiscal year: Annually recalculated 2006-08 average emissions

Target: Continued positive trend (in percentage reduction)

Indicator result: 65%

Performance indicator: Percentage reduction in NOx emissions from industrial, transportation and other sources

Starting point and fiscal year: Annually recalculated 2006-08 average emissions

Target: Continued positive trend (in percentage reduction)

Indicator result: 41%

Performance indicator: Percentage reduction in VOCs emissions from industrial, transportation and other sources

Starting point and fiscal year: Annually recalculated 2006-08 average emissions

Target: Continued positive trend (in percentage reduction)

Indicator result: 37%

Notes: The 2024–25 reporting period marks the first three-year average that excludes 2020, when emissions were unusually low due to the pandemic. Emissions have risen slightly due to increased activity in key sectors such as oil and gas, wood products manufacturing, and paints and solvents, though they are lower than pre-2020 levels. In 2025, ECCC published new regulations to reduce VOC emissions from petroleum storage and loading, requiring phased compliance by facilities. ECCC also published proposed amendments to its methane and VOC regulations aimed at accelerating emissions reductions from the oil and gas sector.

Continue to reduce short-lived climate pollutants (SLCPs) (many of which are also harmful air pollutants) by continuing to advance domestic and international work to reduce SLCPs.

Program: Air Quality; Clean Growth and Climate Change Mitigation

Performance indicator: Percentage reduction in black carbon emissions

Starting point and fiscal year: Annually recalculated 2013 national emission levels

Target: At least 25% by 2025-26

Note: Black carbon, an air pollutant with climate-warming effects, is emitted as a component of PM2.5.

Indicator result: 40%

Performance indicator: Percentage reduction of methane emissions from the oil and gas sector

Starting point and fiscal year: Annually recalculated 2012 oil and gas sector methane emissions levels^{Footnote 6}

Target: At least 40% by 2025 calendar year, then at least 75% by 2030 calendar year

Note: The Regulations Respecting Reduction in the Release of Methane and Certain Volatile Organic Compounds (Upstream Oil and Gas Sector), were published to reduce methane emissions from the oil and gas sector by 40% to 45% below 2012 levels by 2025.

The 2024 National Inventory Report estimates a 31.9% reduction (26.9Mt) of oil and gas sector methane emissions below a 2012 baseline, which includes data up to the calendar year 2022. Further reductions are expected by 2025, as additional elements of the regulations take effect starting in 2023.

In 2023, ECCC published draft amendments to the 2018 regulations towards achieving a strengthened methane target of at least 75% below 2012 levels by 2030.

Indicator result: 39.9%

Notes: 51.0 Mt CO2e reduction

Work with partners to address air pollution

Work with provinces, territories, and other stakeholders to address air pollution through the implementation of the Air Quality Management System and complete the review of the Canadian Ambient Air Quality Standards (CAAQS) for fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and recommend new PM2.5 CAAQS.

Program: Air Quality

Performance indicator: Percentage of the population living in areas where air pollutant concentrations are less than or equal to the Canadian Ambient Air Quality Standards

Starting point and fiscal year: 60% in 2005-2007^{Footnote 7} based on 2020 CAAQS values

Target: At least 85% by 2030-31

ECCC collaborates with provinces, territories, and stakeholders to develop, update, and implement ambient air quality standards and approaches to improve air quality. These actions contribute to FSDS Goal 11.

Relevant targets or ambitions:

GIF Target: UN SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities (Target 11.6)

Indicator result: 74%

Notes: Based on 2020-2022 data. This represents a decrease from the previous period (2019 to 2021), which experienced relatively low wildfire activity, and lower pollutant levels due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The decrease is also influenced by exceedances of the ozone standard in southern Ontario and the 2022 wildfires in British Columbia and the United States that caused PM2.5 standards to be exceeded in Alberta and British Columbia. Nevertheless, this result (74%) is better than in 12 of the 16 reporting periods to date, and represents an increase compared to the baseline value.

Negotiate on behalf of Canada, implement, and strengthen agreements to reduce transboundary air pollution.

Program: Air Quality; Clean Growth and Climate Change Mitigation; International Environment and Climate Action

Performance indicator: Percentage reduction in national emissions of NOx

Starting point and fiscal year: Annually recalculated 2005 emissions of NOx

Target: At least 35% reduction from 2005 emission levels maintained annually

ECCC strengthen collective efforts to manage air pollutants by engaging with international partners and leveraging collective inputs, through:

• Continuing work with the United States to address transboundary air pollution under the Canada-U.S. Air Quality Agreement.
• Implementing the commitments under the Gothenburg Protocol to the UNECE Convention on Long-range Transboundary Air Pollution and continuing to demonstrate leadership on environmental stewardship.
• Seeking to broaden the geographic scope of cooperation to address transboundary air pollution, including through provisions in Canada’s trade agreements that promote increased cooperation.
• Engaging in efforts to take action on short-lived climate pollutants (SLCPs) and other contaminants under the Arctic Council.

Reductions in these key air pollutants contribute directly to FSDS Goal 11 and Air Quality Target by contributing to improved air quality, and to FSDS Goal 13.

Relevant targets or ambitions:

GIF Target: UN SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities (Target 11.6)

UN SDG 13: Climate Action (Target 13.2)

Indicator result: 46%

Performance indicator: Percentage reduction in national emissions of SO2

Starting point and fiscal year: Annually recalculated 2005 emissions of SO2

Target: At least 55% reduction from 2005 emission levels maintained annually

Indicator result: 71%

Performance indicator: Percentage reduction in national emissions of PM2.5

Starting point and fiscal year: Annually recalculated 2005 emissions of PM2.5

Target: At least 25% reduction from 2005 emission levels maintained annually

Indicator result: 41%

Performance indicator: Percentage reduction in national emissions of VOCs

Starting point and fiscal year: Annually recalculated 2005 emissions of VOCs

Target: At least 20% reduction from 2005 emission levels maintained annually

Indicator result: 39%

Performance indicator: Percentage reduction in black carbon emissions

Starting point and fiscal year: Annually recalculated 2013 national emission levels

Target: At least 25% by 2025-26

Indicator result: 40%

Performance indicator: Percentage reduction of methane emissions from the oil and gas sector

Starting point and fiscal year: Annually recalculated 2012 oil and gas sector methane emissions levels^{Footnote 8}

Target: At least 40% by 2025 calendar year, then at least 75% by 2030 calendar year

Note: Methane is a short-lived climate pollutant that contributes to climate change and air pollution. In 2018, the Regulations Respecting Reduction in the Release of Methane and Certain Volatile Organic Compounds (Upstream Oil and Gas Sector), were published to reduce methane emissions from the oil and gas sector by 40% to 45% below 2012 levels by 2025.

The 2024 National Inventory Report estimates a 31.9% reduction (26.9Mt) of oil and gas sector methane emissions below a 2012 baseline, which includes data up to the calendar year 2022. Further reductions are expected by 2025 as additional elements of the regulations take effect starting in 2023.

In 2023, ECCC published draft amendments to the 2018 regulations towards achieving a strengthened methane reduction target of at least 75% below 2012 levels by 2030.

Indicator result: 39.9%

Notes: 51.0 Mt CO2e reduction

Develop green spaces close to urban centres

Promote public participation in nature by continuation of efforts to increase participation in nature-based programs and visits to National Wildlife Areas in urban and near urban areas; and implementation of the “Connecting Canadians to Nature” Initiative in ten National Wildlife Areas by constructing new trails, bridges, and exhibits, and promoting a national geocaching program (an outdoor educational game that uses GPS-enabled devices).

Program: Habitat Conservation and Protection

Performance indicator: Percentage increase in annual visitation to the ten National Wildlife Areas that are part of the Connecting Canadians to Nature Initiative since launch

Starting point and fiscal year:

0% in 2014-15^{Footnote 9}

Target: At least 25% by 2024-25

Note: The initiative encourages people to get outside and to enjoy the benefits of nature. Visitation rates are a direct measure of how many people are responding to the program, and thus engaged, as per the contributing action and the FSDS Target.

By increasing access to wildlife areas and expanding the range of nature-based experiences available, ECCC will make it easier for the public to get out into nature and encourage greater public participation in biodiversity and conservation activities. Such visits can foster enthusiasm for engagement in stewardship, public awareness, and education. Visits to National Wildlife Areas (NWAs) foster enthusiasm for nature and conservation, which in turn may encourage stewardship, education, and a sense of ownership over conservation efforts. This may further result in increased visits to NWAs and to further Connecting Canadians with Nature.

Relevant targets or ambitions:

GIF Target: UN SDG 11: Sustainable cities and communities (Target 11.7)

UN SDG 12 Responsible Consumption and Production (Target 12.8)

Indicator result: 24%

Notes: 24% above 2015 baseline as of March 31, 2025 (270,581 visitors). Site visitation at the 10 Connecting Canadians to Nature National Wildlife Areas continues to follow a trajectory of growth and we are 1% away from meeting the target of 25%. The promotional advertising campaign in spring and summer 2024 helped to bolster local awareness of these National Wildlife Areas. A follow-up campaign is planned, and it is anticipated there will be continued growth over the next year. Additionally, ongoing updates to National Wildlife Area informational materials (i.e., brochures and webpages) will help to support visitors in planning their trip.

Promote access to green space, cultural and natural heritage

Promote public participation in nature by continuation of efforts to increase participation in nature-based programs and visits to National Wildlife Areas in urban and near urban areas; and implementation of the “Connecting Canadians to Nature” Initiative in ten National Wildlife Areas by constructing new trails, bridges, and exhibits, and promoting a national geocaching program (an outdoor educational game that uses GPS-enabled devices).

Program: Habitat Conservation and Protection

Performance indicator: Percentage increase in annual visitation to the ten National Wildlife Areas that are part of the Connecting Canadians to Nature Initiative since launch

Starting point and fiscal year: 0% in 2014-15^{Footnote 10}

Target: At least 25% by 2024-25

Note: The initiative encourages people to get outside and to enjoy the benefits of nature. Visitation rates are a direct measure of how many people are responding to the program, and thus engaged, as per the contributing action and the FSDS Target.

By increasing access to wildlife areas and expanding the range of nature-based experiences available, ECCC will make it easier for the public to get out into nature and encourage greater public participation in biodiversity and conservation activities. Such visits can foster enthusiasm for engagement in stewardship, public awareness, and education.

Visits to National Wildlife Areas foster enthusiasm for nature and conservation, which in turn may encourage stewardship, education, and a sense of ownership over conservation efforts. This may further result in increased visits to NWAs and to further Connecting Canadians with Nature.

Relevant targets or ambitions:

GIF Target: UN SDG 11: Sustainable cities and communities (Target 11.7)

UN SDG 12 Responsible Consumption and Production (Target 12.8)

Indicator result: 24%

Notes: 24% above 2015 baseline as of March 31, 2025 (270,581 visitors). Site visitation at the 10 Connecting Canadians to Nature National Wildlife Areas continues to follow a trajectory of growth and we are 1% away from meeting the target of 25%. The promotional advertising campaign in spring and summer 2024 helped to bolster local awareness of these National Wildlife Areas. A follow-up campaign is planned, and it is anticipated there will be continued growth over the next year. Additionally, ongoing updates to National Wildlife Area informational materials (i.e., brochures and webpages) will help to support visitors in planning their trip.

Inform Canadians about air quality

Produce and deliver the Air Quality Health Index (AQHI) to provide Canadians with greater access to local air quality information and forecasts to help them make informed decisions about their health.

Program: Air Quality

Performance indicator: Number of sensitive individuals reached by Air Quality Health Index (AQHI risk) communications.

Starting point and fiscal year: 0.4M in 2016-17

Target: At least 4M by 2025-26

Note: A methodology was defined to estimate the number of individuals at risk reached by the program, based on where the AQHI is available and using Statistics Canada Census data. This tells us how many sensitive individuals have access to the AQHI. Further analysis was done, using public opinion research results to calculate how many of those sensitive individuals are aware of the AQHI.

Through the AQHI, ECCC provides information about exposure to air pollution to assist Canadians in protecting themselves from the impacts of outdoor air pollution and making informed decisions about their health. Paying attention to air quality makes cities and communities more sustainable, therefore, this action contributes to FSDS Goal 11.

Relevant targets or ambitions:

GIF Target: UN SDG 3: Good health and well-being (Target 3.9),

 UN SDG 11 Sustainable Cities and Communities (Target 11.6)

Indicator result: 3.72M

Work with partners on conservation 

Build capacity for conservation activities.

Program: Habitat Conservation and Protection

Performance indicator: Total area (km2) of habitat secured by partners

Starting point and fiscal year: 6,382km2 in 2013-14

Target: At least 150,000km2 by 2024-25

Note: This is a summary indicator of all the land securement efforts supported by a variety of ECCC programs. The results of this measure demonstrate the effectiveness of the ECCC support to build capacity for land securement efforts, which supports the contributing action and ultimately biodiversity conservation, as per the FSDS Target.

ECCC contributes to this goal by Developing strategic partnerships for collaborative activities such as scientific and academic research, conservation efforts, promotional campaigns, and outreach activities; working with private land trusts and other key stakeholders, to deliver Government priorities, including to accelerate the rate of private land conservation and protect important natural habitat in communities across southern Canada; and funding the Natural Heritage Conservation Program to assist and support securing of ecologically significant areas across Canada, protect habitat for species at risk (both COSEWIC-assessed and SARA-listed) and migratory birds, and enhance connections and corridors between protected areas.

Relevant targets or ambitions:

GIF Target: UN SDG 11 Sustainable Cities and Communities (Target 11.6)

Indicator result: 185,982 km2

The Clean Growth and Climate Change Mitigation Program’s activities include supporting, coordinating, developing, and implementing Canada’s environmental and climate change policies, programs, regulations and plans to reduce greenhouse gas emissions (GHGs). This Program supports the Government of Canada’s commitment to meeting Canada’s GHG emission reduction target of 40 to 45% below 2005 levels by 2030 and net-zero emissions by 2050. The Program includes the Green Municipal Fund (GMF), which provides funding to the Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM) to administer a revolving fund for grants, loans, and loan guarantees to encourage investment in municipal environmental projects.

Other useful information on clean growth and climate change mitigation:

• Canadian Net-Zero Emissions Accountability Act
• Canada’s 2030 Emissions Reduction Plan
• 2023 Progress Report on the 2030 Emissions Reduction Plan

These ECCC programs contribute to advancing:

Canadian Indicator Framework (CIF) ambitions:

• 11.3 Canadians live in healthy, accessible, and sustainable cities and communities
  • Target: Increase the percentage of Canadians living in areas where air pollutant concentrations are less or equal to the standards from 60% in 2005 to 85% in 2030

Global Indicator Framework (GIF) targets:

• 11.4 Strengthen efforts to protect and safeguard the world’s cultural and natural heritage
• 11.6 By 2030, reduce the adverse per capita environmental impact of cities, including by paying special attention to air quality and municipal and other waste management
• 11.7 By 2030, provide universal access to safe, inclusive, and accessible, green and public spaces, in particular for women and children, older persons and persons with disabilities
• 11.a Support positive economic, social, and environmental links between urban, peri-urban and rural areas by strengthening national and regional development planning.

The Clean Growth and Climate Change Mitigation Program: The Government announced ambitious measures to support achievement of Canada’s greenhouse gas (GHG) targets. This includes launching the permanent Canada Public Transit Fund that will provide $3 billion per year for public transit and active transportation infrastructure, beginning in 2026-27, capping and reducing GHG emissions from the oil and gas sector, reducing methane emissions from the oil and gas sector, and accelerating the transition to a net-zero electricity grid through the Clean Electricity Regulations and complementary investments.

Management of Substances and Waste Program aims to reduce threats to the health of Canadians and their environment from harmful substances and waste through various actions and activities including stakeholder engagement, information gathering, research, monitoring, tracking, and reporting of harmful substances, and assessing and managing their risks to the environment.

Other useful information on substances and waste management:

• Managing and reducing waste
• Managing substances in the environment
• Municipal solid waste management
• Plastic waste and pollution reduction

Management of Substances and Waste Program: 100% of risk management actions were taken in a timely manner to protect Canada’s environment from chemicals found to be a risk to the environment. Implementation of Canada’s obligations under multilateral environmental agreements continued.

The Habitat Conservation and Protection Program aims to secure, protect, connect, improve, and restore ecologically sensitive habitat, including wetlands, to contribute to the conservation and protection of migratory birds, species at risk and other wildlife, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Other useful information on habitat conservation and protection:

• Protected areas
• Wildlife, plants, and species
• Biodiversity

The Habitat Conservation and Protection Program (HCP) contributes to increasing Canadians access to nature in urban and near urban areas through the Connecting Canadians to Nature (CCtN) initiative in certain National Wildlife Areas. More than 270,000 people accessed ECCC CCtN sites in 2024-25. Additionally, HCP contributes to enhancing nature connectivity by protecting over 500km2 of ecologically sensitive lands annually, mostly in southern Canada where development pressures are highest including grasslands and wetlands, through the Ecological Gifts Program (EGP) and the Natural Heritage Conservation Program (NHCP).

The Air Quality Program addresses outdoor air pollution with the aim of improving the quality of ambient air, reducing its effects on human health and the environment, and to empower Canadians to protect themselves when air quality deteriorates. The Program performs air quality science (research, monitoring and modeling) and analysis, generates emissions data, and provides scientific, technical and policy advice. The Program develops Canadian Ambient Air Quality Standards, monitors and reports on ambient air quality, and develops and administers regulations and other risk management instruments to reduce air pollutant emissions from industry, vehicles, engines and fuels, and consumer and commercial products. The Program collaborates with federal departments, provinces, territories, and other stakeholders to address domestic air pollution, and to implement Canada’s Air Quality Management System, and works internationally to reduce transboundary air pollution. The Program is also working to collaborate with Indigenous Peoples on air quality issues of concern for them, particularly for those living in areas near industrial activities. Additionally, the Program produces and disseminates hourly Air Quality Health Index (AQHI) forecasts and related health information to help Canadians make decisions to protect their health by limiting short-term exposure to air pollution.

Other useful information on air quality:

• Air pollution and air quality in Canada
• Canada’s actions on air quality
• Air quality research and science
• Air Quality Health Index

Air Quality Program: In 2024-25, ECCC:

• Administered regulations to reduce air pollutant emissions from industrial sources, vehicles, engines and fuels, and consumer and commercial products;
• Published the proposed Clean Electricity Regulations, and the proposed amendments to the Multi-Sector Air Pollutant Regulations (part 1: boilers and heaters);
• Continued to work to reduce short-lived climate pollutants (SLCPs), many of which are also harmful air pollutants;
• Continued the work to establish a partnership table with Aamjiwnaang First Nation to co-develop solutions to address the air quality concerns of the community;
• Continued collaboration with provinces and territories to implement the Air Quality Management System (AQMS) including advancing the retrospective stock-take of the system;
• Continued collaboration with federal, provincial and territorial partners to approve new 2030 Canadian Ambient Air Quality Standards (CAAQS) for fine particulate matter;
• Continued monitoring of key air pollutant levels through the National Air Pollutant Surveillance Program. Continued to work internationally to reduce transboundary air pollution through bilateral agreements such as the Canada-US Air Quality Agreement and through multilateral agreements such as the Convention on Long-Range Transboundary Air Pollution and advanced negotiations to update and strengthen them; and
• Continued to issue daily air quality forecasts and alerts to help inform Canadians on the quality of the air they breathe and to enable them to better make health-based decisions.

In May 2024, the federal government issued the Interim Order Respecting Releases of Benzene from Petrochemical Facilities in Sarnia, Ontario that required immediate steps be taken to reduce benzene emissions from petrochemical facilities exceeding a particular fence line limit. Since then, the Reduction in the Release of Volatile Organic Compounds (Storage and Loading of Volatile Petroleum Liquids) Regulations were published which seek to limit the emissions of volatile organic compounds including benzene, particularly due to leaks from process equipment, storage tanks, and loading activities at petroleum and petrochemical facilities. ECCC also continues to collaborate with the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) and international partners to strengthen capacity for the provision of timely, reliable, and accessible air quality information and services, including through its leadership role in the WMO Wildfire Smoke Alert and Advisory System, and specifically by hosting the website of the North American Regional Wildfire Smoke Alert and Advisory Center.

Implement the Single-Use Plastics Prohibition Regulations

Implement the Single-use Plastics Prohibition Regulations that were enacted in 2022, with prohibitions being phased in between 2022 and 2025.

Program: Aquatic Ecosystems Health, Substances and Waste Management

Performance indicator: Percentage of obligated parties in compliance with Single-Use Plastics requirements

Starting point and fiscal year: 0% 2022-23

Target: 100% by 2025-26

These regulations ban six categories of single-use plastics that are found in the environment, pose a threat to wildlife, are hard to recycle and have alternatives. It is estimated that the Regulations will prevent 22,000 tonnes of plastic litter over ten years. They contribute to reaching SDG target 12.5 by removing harmful and problematic single-use plastic items from the market, driving the adoption of reuse and more sustainable alternatives.

Relevant targets or ambitions:

GIF Target: UN SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production (Target 12.5)

Indicator result: N/A

Notes: In 2022, the government finalized the Single-use Plastics Prohibition Regulations (SUPPR). In 2023, a Federal Court judgment overturned the addition of "plastic manufactured items" to Schedule 1 of the Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999, which provided the legal authority to enact the SUPPR. The Government of Canada has appealed this decision. The Regulations remain in force. However, data to measure their compliance is not yet available. 

Work with provinces and territories through the Canadian Council of Ministers of the Environment (CCME) to implement the Canada-wide Strategy on Zero Plastic Waste

Implement proposed regulations requiring minimum amounts of recycled plastic in new packaging and labelling of plastic packaging and single-use plastic items.^{Footnote 13}

Program: Aquatic Ecosystems Health, Substances and Waste Management

Performance indicator: Percentage of obligated parties in compliance with recycled content requirements

Starting point and fiscal year: 0% in 2023-24

Target: 100% by 2029-30

These measures aim to divert plastics from landfills and towards recycling to better protect the environment from plastic pollution. A co-benefit is the reduction of lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions of plastic packaging with recycled content. They contribute to reaching SDG target 12.5.

Relevant targets or ambitions:

CIF Target: UN SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production (Target 12.7)

Indicator result: N/A

Notes: In 2023, ECCC consulted on a regulatory proposal that would, among other things, require minimum levels of recycled plastic in certain categories of packaging and single-use plastics. This proposal has been paused due to a Federal Court judgment that overturned the addition of "plastic manufactured items" to Schedule 1 of the Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999, which provided the legal authority to regulate. The Government of Canada has appealed this decision. As a result, there are no regulatory requirements for recycled content against which this target can be measured.

Other

Work with provinces and territories through the Canadian Council of Ministers of the Environment (CCME) to implement the Canada-wide Strategy on Zero Plastic Waste (CAP-ZPW).

Program: Aquatic Ecosystems Health, Substances and Waste Management

Performance indicator: Amount (in tonnes) of plastics entering into Canada’s natural environment, from both terrestrial and aquatic based sources

Starting point and fiscal year: ECCC-commissioned baseline (starting point) and modelled projections for plastic pollution will be available in 2024-25

Target: Reduction from the baseline for plastic waste in both terrestrial and aquatic environments by 2029-30

This work aims to reduce waste generation and keep plastics out of the environment.

Through the funding received in Budget 2023 ECCC is contributing to the implementation of the CCME’s CAP-ZPW in these areas: expanding knowledge on plastics in the environment and the economy; developing and implementing management measures; supporting innovation and market transformation; preventing and reducing plastic pollution.

Relevant targets or ambitions:

CIF Target: UN SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production (Target 12.5)

Indicator result: N/A

Notes: In 2025, ECCC established a 2019 baseline for plastic leaked into the natural environment, from both terrestrial and aquatic based sources. ECCC remains committed to report on the amount of plastics entering the natural environment as pollution in Canada, in relation to the 2019 baseline, in 2026-27.

Develop regulations and programs that support light-duty zero-emission vehicles

Continue laying the policy and regulatory groundwork needed to advance Canada’s zero-emission vehicle targets.

Program: Clean Growth and Climate Change Mitigation

Performance Indicator: Number of final regulations published in the Canada Gazette, Part 2, in 2023

Starting point and fiscal year: 0 in 2022-23

Target: 1 by 2023-24

ECCC will continue to work with federal partners to accelerate the uptake of zero-emission vehicles to contribute to the FSDS goal of greenhouse gas (GHG) emission reductions by 2030. The Government of Canada released its Emissions Reduction Plan on March 29, 2022. The revised target is for zero-emission vehicles to represent at least 20% of light-duty vehicle sales by 2026, 60% by 2030 and 100% by 2035.

Regulations Amending the Passenger Automobile and Light Truck Greenhouse Gas Emission Regulations were published in Canada Gazette I in December 2022.

These regulations introduce new requirements to ensure vehicles offered for sale in Canada meet specified annual targets of zero-emission vehicles (ZEVs). These ZEV sales targets will begin with model year 2026.

Relevant targets or ambitions:

GIF Target: UN SDG 11 Sustainable Cities and Communities (Target 11.6)

UN SDG Goal 13: Climate Action (Target 13.2)

Indicator result: 1

Develop regulations that support medium and heavy-duty zero-emission vehicles

Continue laying down the groundwork required for developing a medium and heavy-duty vehicle (MHDV) zero-emission vehicles (ZEV) regulation to achieve the 100% MHDV zero emission sales by 2040 target for a subset of vehicle types based on feasibility. Interim 2030 regulated sales requirements that would vary for different vehicle categories based on feasibility and explore interim targets for the mid-2020s.

Program: Clean Growth and Climate Change Mitigation

Performance indicator: Number of draft regulations published in the Canada Gazette, Part 1

Starting point and fiscal year: 0 in 2022-23

Target: 1 by 2023-24

ECCC will continue to work with federal partners to accelerate the uptake of zero-emission vehicles to contribute to the FSDS goal of greenhouse gas (GHG) emission reductions by 2030. These regulations will introduce new requirements to ensure vehicles offered for sale in Canada meet specified annual targets of zero-emission vehicles (ZEVs). The government has committed to develop a medium-and heavy-duty vehicles regulation to require 100% medium-and heavy-duty vehicles sales to be ZEVs by 2040 for a subset of vehicle types based on feasibility, with interim 2030 regulated sales requirements that would vary for different vehicle categories based on feasibility and explore interim targets for the mid-2020s.

Relevant targets or ambitions:

GIF Target: UN SDG 7: Affordable and clean energy (Target 7.2)

UN SDG 8: Decent work and economic growth (Target 8.4)

UN SDG 13: Climate Action (Target 13.2)

Indicator result: 0

Notes: Following the 2023 publication in the Canada Gazette, Part II of the Electric Vehicle Availability Standard (SOR/2023-275), the Department received substantial and diverse feedback from stakeholders across the transportation sector. In response, additional engagement and analysis have been prioritized to ensure that forthcoming regulations are well-informed, equitable, and aligned with Canada’s broader climate objectives.

Canada has a longstanding commitment to aligning with the most stringent North American emission standards and as such the Department has prioritized a thorough analysis of these rulemakings to assess alignment with Canada’s broader climate objectives.

Make zero-emissions vehicles more affordable and improve supply

Implement the Electric Vehicle Availability Standard and continue laying the policy and regulatory groundwork needed to achieve Canada’s zero-emission vehicle targets of 20% light-duty vehicle sales by 2026, 60% by 2030 and 100% by 2035, in collaboration with Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada, Natural Resources Canada and Transport Canada.^{Footnote 15}

Program: Clean Growth and Climate Change Mitigation

Performance indicator: Percentage of new light-duty vehicles offered for sale in Canada that are zero-emission vehicles

Starting point and fiscal year: Not applicable

Target: 20% by 2026, 60% by 2030, and 100% by 2035^{Footnote 15}

Note: This performance indicator will be assessed one year after ach target and results will be available two years after each target.

ECCC will continue to work with federal partners to accelerate the uptake of zero-emission vehicles to contribute to the FSDS goal of greenhouse gas (GHG) emission reductions by 2030. The Government of Canada released its Emissions Reduction Plan on March 29, 2022. The revised target is for zero-emission vehicles to represent at least 20% of light-duty vehicle sales by 2026, 60% by 2030 and 100% by 2035. The Electric Vehicle Availability Standard was published in Canada Gazette II in December 2023. These regulations introduce new requirements to ensure vehicles offered for sale in Canada meet specified annual targets of zero-emission vehicles (ZEVs). These ZEV sales targets will begin with model year 2026.^{Footnote 15}

Relevant targets or ambitions:

GIF Target: UN SDG 11 Sustainable Cities and Communities (Target 11.6)

UN SDG Goal 13: Climate Action (Target 13.2)

Indicator result: 15.4%

Notes: This indicator is set to change its data source as of 2026-27, as such, past results will no longer be comparable. Starting with the 2026 model year, annual data collection for this performance indicator will occur in arrears. For example, regulatees submit performance data for the 2026 model year to ECCC in mid-2027 and ECCC then processes and analyzes the information to report the results in the 2028-29 fiscal year report.

In addition, the Electric Vehicle Availability Standard (EVAS) currently requires that at least 20% of new light-duty vehicle sales in Canada be zero emissions by 2026, rising to 60% by 2030 and reaching 100% by 2035. The EVAS will be amended to remove the target for the 2026 model year vehicles to help reduce the economic pressure due to tariffs.

Continue laying down the groundwork required for developing a MHDV ZEV regulation to achieve the 100% MHDV zero emission sales by 2040 target for a subset of vehicle types based on feasibility, with interim 2030 regulated sales requirements that would vary for different vehicle categories based on feasibility and explore interim targets for the mid-2020s.

Program: Clean Growth and Climate Change Mitigation

Performance indicator Number of draft regulations published in the Canada Gazette, Part 1

Starting point and fiscal year: 0 in 2022-23

Target: 1 by 2023-24

ECCC will continue to work with federal partners to accelerate the uptake of zero-emission vehicles to contribute to the FSDS goal of greenhouse gas (GHG) emission reductions by 2030. These regulations will introduce new requirements to ensure vehicles offered for sale in Canada meet specified annual targets of zero-emission vehicles (ZEVs). The government has committed to develop a medium-and heavy-duty vehicles regulation to require 100% medium-and heavy-duty vehicles sales to be ZEVs by 2040 for a subset of vehicle types based on feasibility, with interim 2030 regulated sales requirements that would vary for different vehicle categories based on feasibility and explore interim targets for the mid-2020s.

Relevant targets or ambitions:

GIF Target: UN SDG 7: Affordable and clean energy (Target 7.2)

UN SDG 8: Decent work and economic growth (Target 8.4)

UN SDG 13: Climate Action (Target 13.2)

Indicator result: 0

Notes: Following the 2023 publication in the Canada Gazette, Part II of the Electric Vehicle Availability Standard (SOR/2023-275), the Department received substantial and diverse feedback from stakeholders across the transportation sector. In response, additional engagement and analysis have been prioritized to ensure that forthcoming regulations are well-informed, equitable, and aligned with Canada’s broader climate objectives.

Canada has a longstanding commitment to aligning with the most stringent North American emission standards and as such the Department has prioritized a thorough analysis of these rulemakings to assess alignment with Canada’s broader climate objectives.

Maximize diversion of waste from landfill

Implement procedures to optimize building operations while leveraging programs to reduce the environmental impact of Departmental building operations and materials, including waste reduction and diversion work plans.

Program: Internal Services

Performance indicator: Percentage (by weight) of non-hazardous operational waste diverted from landfill

Starting point and fiscal year: 41% in 2022-23

Target: At least 75% by 2029-30

Note: These indicators show how the Department is progressing towards meeting its goals to reduce the environmental impact of waste, as outlined under the Greening Government Strategy (GGS).

By implementing procedures to optimize building operations and leveraging programs, such as waste reduction and diversion work plans, ECCC will increase waste diversion rates in its buildings and thereby contribute directly to meeting the FSDS target.

Relevant targets or ambitions:

GIF Target: UN SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities (Target 11.6)

UN SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production (Target 12.5)

UN SDG 13: Climate Action (Target 13.2)

Indicator result: 37%

Notes: The indicator is not on track to achieve the target by the expected target date as some results from waste audits remain valid for up to five years, and measurable improvements from waste management initiatives may only be captured several years after implementation. Various waste diversion initiatives have been introduced, and educational campaigns are ongoing at key ECCC sites. These efforts are continuous, with the goal of achieving the 2030 target.

Performance indicator: Percentage (by weight) of plastic waste diverted from landfills

Starting point and fiscal year: 14% in 2022-23

Target: At least 75% by 2029-30

Indicator result: 19%

Notes: The indicator is not on track to achieve the target by the expected target date as results from waste audits remain valid for five years, and measurable impacts from waste management improvements may only become evident several years after implementation. Various waste diversion initiatives have been implemented, supported by ongoing educational campaigns at key ECCC sites. Additionally, resources and tools have been developed to reduce the use of single-use plastics and promote environmentally friendly alternatives. These efforts are ongoing, with the objective of meeting the 2030 target.

Maximize diversion of waste from landfill

Implement procedures to manage building operations while leveraging programs to reduce the environmental impact of Departmental building operations and materials, including:

waste reduction and diversion work plans; and life-cycle assessment techniques to minimize embodied carbon and the use of harmful materials in construction and renovation.

Program: Internal Services

Performance indicators: Percentage (by weight) of construction and demolition waste diverted from landfills

Starting point and fiscal year: 0% in 2021-22

Target: At least 90% by 2029-30

Note: This indicator shows the Department’s commitment to reduce the environmental impact of waste, as outlined under the GGS.

By implementing procedures to manage building operations while leveraging programs, such as waste reduction and diversion work plans, ECCC will increase waste diversion rates in its buildings and thereby contribute directly to meeting the FSDS target. Tracking for applicable projects to enable quantification of construction and demolition waste began in 2021-22.

Relevant targets or ambitions:

GIF Target: UN SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities (Target 11.6)

UN SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production (Target 12.5)

UN SDG 13: Climate Action (Target 13.2)

Indicator result: N/A

Notes: No projects in 2024-25 met the reporting threshold (total value over $5 million, and in areas where commercial waste services are available); however, ECCC ensures that metals are diverted from the waste stream during construction and sent for recovery.

Waste diversion during construction will continue to form part of project requirements.

Decarbonize ECCC’s fleet, by purchasing zero-emission vehicles (ZEV)

Program: Internal Services

Performance indicator: Percentage of purchases of new light-duty on-road fleet comprised of zero-emission vehicles (where suitable options are available and meet operational feasibility)

Starting point and fiscal year: 98% in 2023-24

Target: 100% annually, beginning in 2025 at the latest

Note: This indicator shows how the Department is progressing towards meeting its goals to adopt low-carbon mobility solutions, as outlined under the GGS.

ECCC will similarly deploy ZEV charging stations within its facilities and facilitate the sharing of fleet vehicles across the department. ECCC will also optimize fleet management by expanding the use of telematics to collect and analyze vehicle usage data on vehicles scheduled to be replaced, provided that essential operational needs and departmental targets are met. By reducing the energy use in its fleet and deploying ZEV charging stations, and by developing a strategic approach to decarbonizing its and optimizing its fleet management, ECCC will further reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from its fleet.

Relevant targets or ambitions:

GIF Target: UN SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities (Target 11.6)

UN SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production (Target 12.7)

UN SDG 13: Climate Action (Target 13.2)

Indicator result: 98%

Performance indicator: Percentage of the conventional light-duty fleet that is comprised of zero-emission vehicles

Starting point and fiscal year: 1% in 2022-23

Target: 100% by 2029-30

By reducing the energy use in its fleet and deploying ZEV charging stations, and by developing a strategic approach to decarbonizing its fleet and optimizing its fleet management, ECCC will further reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from its fleet.

Relevant targets or ambitions:

GIF Target: UN SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities (Target 11.6)

UN SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production (Target 12.7)

UN SDG 13: Climate Action (Target 13.2)

Indicator result: 10%

Notes: ECCC is transitioning its conventional light-duty fleet to zero-emission vehicles (ZEVs), in support of the Government of Canada’s 2030 target for a fully zero-emission fleet (as defined in Treasury Board of Canada Secretariat guidance, where one or more suitable options per vehicle group are available and considers operational feasibility). By 2030, 100% of new conventional light-duty fleet purchases are aimed to be ZEVs, in line with the government’s commitment to prioritize zero-emission options where suitable and operationally feasible. While many ECCC vehicles are specialized and face limited ZEV options, the department continues to explore ZEV acquisitions where operationally viable. Approximately 65% of the fleet is over four years old and scheduled for replacement between 2025 and 2030, consistent with TBS’s recommended seven-year lifecycle. Replacements will be ZEVs where feasible and operationally sound, ensuring stewardship through planned renewals. In 2023–24, 98% of ECCC’s light-duty vehicle purchases were ZEVs. As of March 31, 2024, the fleet included 737 vehicles, with 678 subject to the ZEV transition target and 59 classified as commercial vehicles.

Strengthen green procurement criteria

Undertake clean technology demonstration projects and adopt clean technology through procurement of innovative solutions that displace and/or offset the greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions associated with electricity used in departmental operations.

Program: Internal Services

Performance indicator: Percentage use of electricity from clean generation sources in its building operations, including procurement of renewable energy credits

Starting point and fiscal year: 86.3% in 2021-22

Target: 100% by 2024-25

Note: The Department will assess opportunities to deploy clean electricity projects in its buildings and work with Public Services and Procurement Canada (PSPC) to prioritize clean electricity contracts and/or procurement of renewable energy credits to offset greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from the conventional grid-tied electricity used by the Department.

By adopting innovative solutions that displace and/or offset the greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions associated with electricity used in its operations, ECCC will contribute to meeting the FSDS target. Moreover, by undertaking clean technology demonstration projects and adopting innovative services and goods, the Department will demonstrate federal leadership in the use of clean technologies.

Relevant targets or ambitions:

GIF Target: UN SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy (Target 7.2)

UN SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure (Target 9.4)

UN SDG 13: Climate Action (Target 13.2)

Indicator result: 84.1%

Notes: Results for this indicator are reported in arrears. The 2024-25 result represents 2023-24 data.

Implement the Departmental Green Procurement Action Plan.

Program: Internal Services

Performance indicator: Development of environmental criteria to be incorporated into the procurement of goods and services, prioritizing high impact categories

Starting point and fiscal year: Qualitative indicator: In 2021-22, the Department completed the identification of high impact categories of goods and services purchased

Target: Environmental criteria developed by 2023-24

Note: This indicator shows how the Department is progressing towards meeting its goals to reduce the environmental impact of purchased goods and transition to a net-zero, circular economy, as outlined under the GGS.

The Departmental Green Procurement Action Plan includes identifying high impact categories of goods and services purchased which have a significant influence in achieving net-zero emissions and green operations using environmental criteria to reduce the environmental impact and ensure best value in procurement decisions, in particular, those involving high impact categories of goods and services; including criteria that promote the use of sustainable plastic in goods that contain plastic and the reduction of associated plastic packaging waste; and eliminate unnecessary use of single-use plastics in government operations, events and meetings establishing metrics to measure progress over time. By adopting green procurement practices, including the use of environmental criteria to reduce the environmental impact of, and ensure best value in, procurement decisions, the Department will contribute to meeting the FSDS goal of transitioning to green government operations.

Relevant targets or ambitions:

GIF Target: UN SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production (Target 12.7)

UN SDG 13: Climate Action (Target 13.2)

Indicator result: Preliminary planning is underway; environmental criteria have not yet been developed

Notes: The development of environmental criteria, as outlined in the Greening Government Strategy, is scheduled for completion by March 31, 2026. Some activities have been deferred to 2025–26 to support coordination with central agencies and other departments. Such as, in the fall 2024, a Request for Information was issued to gather industry input on integrating GHG reduction criteria into procurements under $25 million. This input will inform potential pilot initiatives, which are still under consideration pending further analysis. Work is also underway to develop evaluation criteria for high-impact procurement categories, in collaboration with other federal organizations.

Strengthen support for green procurement and contracting responsibilities.

Program: Internal Services

Performance indicator: Percentage of employees with procurement and contracting responsibilities that have completed the Advanced Green Procurement training course

Starting point and fiscal year: An Advanced Green Procurement training course will be available to employees in 2023-24

Target: 100% by 2023-24

Note: Overall, this indicator shows the Department’s progress toward the development of guidelines, resources and training needed to ensure procurement decision-makers can buy green goods and services.

ECCC contributes to this goal through developing guidelines and resources to help Government Acquisition Card holders and specialists in procurement buy green goods and services; by developing and providing training for employees with procurement and contracting responsibilities; and by ensuring that procurement and contracting employees continue to adhere to the requirements and the spirit of the PSPC Policy on Green Procurement and related, relevant legislation. By developing guidelines, resources, and training to ensure procurement decision-makers can buy green goods and services. ECCC will provide, facilitate, and promote mechanisms for green procurement, a key step in elevating the rate with which green procurement practices are pursued in the department.

Relevant targets or ambitions:

GIF Target: UN SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production (Target 12.7)

Indicator result: 82%

Notes: The target was not achieved primarily due to new individuals joining the department who had yet to complete the mandatory training. Follow-up is being conducted at the executive level, and the training has been integrated into employees’ professional development plans. These actions are expected to improve overall 2025-26 completion rates.

Also, the methodology will be revised to include only employees who complete training within their required timeframe, ensuring calculations reflect applicable deadlines.

Advance the circular economy in Canada

Work with industry, other governments, and stakeholders to advance a more circular economy in Canada to reduce emissions and waste and promote more sustainable consumption and production.

Program: Internal Services

Performance indicator: Cumulative number of engagement sessions completed

Starting point and fiscal year: 2 in 2022-23

Target: At least 6 by 2025-26

Greater collaboration to advance the circular economy in Canada will support the ambition of Canadian’s consuming in a sustainable manner and will be informed by policy development and research being undertake by ECCC, other government departments, and other circular economy organisations. Advancing a more circular economy in Canada also supports the goal of waste reduction. Research has demonstrated that the Circular Economy can have positive environmental impacts by encouraging more sustainable production and consumption and providing solutions to reduce material-based emissions, and waste.

Relevant targets or ambitions:

GIF Target: UN SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production (Target 12.5)

Indicator result: 15 engagement events or meetings

Notes: The target was exceeded due to a decision to prioritize one-on-one engagement sessions over larger group events. This approach was deemed more feasible and cost-effective, resulting in a higher number of sessions concluded.

Assess and manage risks from chemicals and harmful substances

Inform evidence-based decision-making to protect the health of Canadians and the environment from harmful substances and assist Canadians in making informed decisions about their health.

Program: Aquatic Ecosystems Health, Substances and Waste Management

Performance indicator: Cumulative percentage of the total risk assessment priorities in the plan of Priorities that have been assessed by the end of the 8-year plan

Starting point and fiscal year: 2025-26

Target: All assessment priorities in the Plan of Priorities are assessed by 2033-34

Note: The indicator directly reflects the identification of substances that are considered to be a health or environmental risk and will inform their subsequent risk management.

The Proposed Plan of Priorities is a multi-year, integrated plan for the assessment of substances in Canada, as well as other activities that support the management of substances (Proposed Plan of Priorities - Canada.ca). ECCC will do this by conducting scientific assessment to determine the risks to the environment from substances that are already in commerce (existing substances) and substances proposed for use in Canada. ECCC will also develop better understanding and capacity to manage the health and environmental risks of pollutants to Canadians by:

• Continuing to deliver Canada’s Chemicals Management Plan with Health Canada, including addressing the remaining established priority chemicals,
• Continuing to set new directions and objectives for managing chemicals beyond 2020,
• Supporting greater transparency and public participation in the notification and risk assessments of new substances and organisms through the New Substances Voluntary Public Engagement Transparency Initiative; and
• Collaborating with Health Canada to strengthen the Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999 (CEPA).

Relevant targets or ambitions:

GIF Target: UN SDG 3: Good health and well-being (Target 3.9)

UN SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities (Target 11.6)

Indicator result: N/A

Notes: A target has not been established because the Plan of Priorities was not published in 2024-25. The Plan is expected to be published later in 2025.

Take risk management actions for substances found to be a risk to the environment or human health.

Program: Aquatic Ecosystems Health, Substances and Waste Management

Performance indicator: Percentage of actions taken in a timely manner to protect Canada’s environment from chemicals found to be a risk to the environment

Starting point and fiscal year: 93% in 2022-23

Target: 100% by 2024-25

Manage harmful substances that pose risks, and ensure risk management measures are in place for substances identified as harmful, including through:

• modelling, analysis, and research, and by developing regulatory impact analysis statements to support informed federal decision-making on policy approaches to reduce air and water pollution.
• development, implementation, and administration of regulatory and non-regulatory instruments to manage risks from harmful substances and waste; and
• administering and promoting compliance and implementing a risk-based approach to enforcing regulations related to chemicals, waste and toxic substances.

The Implementation of risk management actions aims to reduce the potential environmental risks of harmful substances. This departmental action directly contributes to the FSDS target which is about taking risk management actions for substances found to be a risk to the environment or human health. Managing chemical substances protects the environment and human health.

Relevant targets or ambitions:

GIF Target: UN SDG 3: Good health and well-being (Target 3.9)

UN SDG 11 Sustainable Cities and Communities (Target 11.6)

UN SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production (Target 12.4)

Indicator result: 100%

Reduce methane emissions from municipal solid waste landfills

Develop new federal regulations to decrease methane emissions at Canada’s largest landfills, expected to be finalized in spring 2025.

Program: Aquatic Ecosystems Health, Substances and Waste Management

Performance indicator: Percentage reduction in landfill methane emissions

Starting point and fiscal year: 17Mt CO2 eq. in 2019 calendar year

Target: At least 50% by 2030 calendar year

Reducing methane emissions from Canada’s waste sector will contribute to the overall decrease in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in achieving the 2030 and 2050 emission reduction targets.

Relevant targets or ambitions:

GIF Target: UN SDG 3: Good health and well-being (Target 3.9)

UN SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production (Target 12.4)

Indicator result: N/A

Notes: The result will be available in 2029. The regulations are still in development. The draft was published in 2024, and the final regulations may be published in 2025. Emission reductions under the regulation are expected to begin in 2027.

Remediate high-priority contaminated sites

Remediate federal contaminated sites through the Federal Contaminated Sites Action Plan (FCSAP) at sites for which ECCC is responsible

Program: Aquatic Ecosystems Health, Substances and Waste Management

Performance indicator: Percentage of Federal Contaminated Sites Action Plan-funded sites during Phase IV that have completed remediation/risk management work (Highest Step Completed>8)

Starting point and fiscal year: 0% in 2020-21

Target: At least 65% by 2024-25

Note: Completing remediation/risk management work will ensure that risks to human health and the environment are reduced, providing Canadians with safe and healthy communities in which to live.

By remediating contaminated sites, for which ECCC is responsible, ECCC will reduce ecological and human health risks related to harmful substances at these sites. Risk reduction activities contribute to a safe and healthy environment for Canadians by minimizing impacts to human health and the environment.

ECCC significantly contributes to maintaining high quality standards in the assessment of risks to the environment. In general, site-specific advice helps custodians estimate liabilities, define appropriate remediation measures and objectives, thereby leading to improved environmental outcomes. ECCC Expert support advice increases consistency and transparency of risk-based decisions used in the management of federal contaminated sites.

Relevant targets or ambitions:

GIF Target: UN SDG 3: Good health and well-being (Target 3.9)

UN SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production (Target 12.4)

Indicator result: 56%

Notes: The first two years of the phase were affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, limiting custodians' ability to carry out planned work. For example, access to sites located on First Nations reserves and in the northern regions was restricted. Progress was further impacted by natural disasters, procurement and regulatory permit delays, and staffing shortages in both public and private sectors. In Phase V, custodians will continue remediation and risk management efforts. A contingency factor was incorporated into Phase V targets to improve achievability and address the shortfall from Phase IV. Note: The result of 56% is specific to ECCC's performance for Phase IV of FCSAP (2020-2025) and does not reflect the combined result of 48% for all FCSAP partner organizations.

Research innovative solutions for plastics

Develop a roadmap to encourage reuse and repair of products containing plastic.

Program: Aquatic Ecosystems Health, Substances and Waste Management

Performance indicator: Percentage increase in awareness of the roadmap by industry

Starting point and fiscal year: Survey to be done once in 2026-27

Target: At least 70% by 2026-27

Note: These indicators are a measure of progress towards developing community-led, science backed, and effective plastic pollution capture and collection solutions for diverting plastic waste from the environment. This ultimately leads to a better understanding of the impact of substances that are harmful to the environment or human health.

Plastic pollution will be diverted from landfills and the environment (captured and removed), contributing to cleaner communities.

Relevant targets or ambitions:

GIF Target: UN SDG 14: Conserve and sustainably use the oceans, seas and marine resources (Target 14.1)

UN SDG 3: Good health and well-being (Target 3.9)

UN SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities (Target 11.6)

Indicator result: Results will be available from FY 2026-27 as part of program evaluation.

Notes: This Roadmap is currently under development. A public consultation was held between December 2024 and February 2025 on a Proposed Roadmap to Extend the Life of Plastics in Electronics. Comments received during this consultation process are being analyzed in advance of further action.

These comments will be used as feedback for a draft roadmap which is expected to be published and shared broadly prior to the indicated date. As the development of the roadmap is progressing well, the initiative and ultimate indicator result is considered on track.

Performance indicator: Percentage increase in awareness of the roadmap by the public

Starting point and fiscal year: Survey to be done once in 2026-27

Target: At least 2% by 2026-27

Note: These indicators are a measure of progress towards developing community-led, science backed, and effective plastic pollution capture and collection solutions for diverting plastic waste from the environment. This ultimately leads to a better understanding of the impact of substances that are harmful to the environment or human health.

Indicator result: Results will be available from FY 2026-27 as part of program evaluation.

Notes: This Roadmap is currently under development. A public consultation was held between December 2024 and February 2025 on a Proposed Roadmap to Extend the Life of Plastics in Electronics. Comments received during this consultation process are being analyzed in advance of further action.

These comments will be used as feedback for a draft roadmap which is expected to be published and shared broadly prior to the indicated date. As the development of the roadmap is progressing well, the initiative and ultimate indicator result is considered on track.

Other

Negotiate on behalf of Canada and implement international agreements related to chemicals management.

Program: Aquatic Ecosystems Health, Substances and Waste Management

Performance indicator: Percentage of decisions or outcomes of the decision-making bodies – the Conferences of the Parties (COPs), of the Basel, Rotterdam, Stockholm and Minamata conventions – that reflect Canadian objectives

Starting point and fiscal year: 100% in 2020-21

Target: 90% in 2024-25

ECCC works towards better international chemical management by continuing to advance the sound management of chemicals and waste through active participation in committees and subsidiary bodies to the Basel, Rotterdam, Stockholm, and Minamata Conventions, supported by domestic action under the Chemicals Management Plan, ECCC will strengthen Canada’s capacity to implement effective chemicals and waste management. It will contribute to minimizing threats to Canadians and the environment by engaging with international partners and contributing expertise to key international for a to reduce risks of harmful substances that enter Canada from foreign sources through long range transport and trade.

Relevant targets or ambitions:

GIF Target: UN SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production (Target 12.4)

Indicator result: 100%

Notes: During the 2024-25 fiscal year, the COPs for the Basel, Rotterdam, and Stockholm Conventions did not meet and therefore no decisions were made. Similarly, the Minamata Convention COP also did not meet during this time. This is a biennial indicator. The result represents 2023-24 data, and the next available result will be in 2025-26.

Management of Substances and Waste Program aims to reduce threats to the health of Canadians and their environment from harmful substances and waste and to reduce threats to Canada’s aquatic system and prevent marine pollution and contributes to ecosystem health in oceans and the Antarctic. In 2024-25, ECCC will continue to support and undertake science, promote innovation, and employ the tools available to it under the Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999 (CEPA) to ensure the plastics remain in the economy and out of the environment. As the federal government member of the Canadian Council of Ministers of the Environment (CCME), ECCC works with the provinces and territories, to implement the 2018 Canada-wide Strategy on Zero Plastic Waste, and its Phase 1 and Phase 2 Action Plans. The comprehensive Strategy targets each stage in the lifecycle of plastics through a suite of activities described in its Action Plans. In addition, Canada is working with countries and stakeholders to develop an ambitious and effective global agreement that takes a circular economy approach to reduce plastic waste, increase the value recovery of plastics, and tackle plastic pollution through a range of complementary solutions that span the plastics lifecycle. Other priorities for ECCC in 2024-25 include implementing the national ban on certain harmful single use plastic products and supporting Provincial and Territorial Extended Producer Responsibility by establishing a federal plastic registry.

The circular economy provides an alternative and more sustainable framework for the design, production and consumption of products and materials to keep them in the economy and out of landfills for as long as possible. ECCC is committed working with others to explore what opportunities greater circularity could offer in a Canadian context, and to advance a made-in-Canada approach.

Canada implements and is an active contributor to the Basel Convention on the Control of Transboundary Movements of Hazardous Wastes and Their Disposal which aims to protect human health and the environment against the adverse effects resulting from the generation and management of hazardous and other wastes. Priorities for 2024-2025 are the ratification of the Basel Convention Ban Amendment and acceptance of the recent amendments to Annexes II, VIII and IX on electrical and electronic waste.

Other useful information on substances and waste management:

• Pollution and waste management
• Waste management in Canada
• Plastic waste and pollution reduction
• Solid waste diversion and disposal
• Pollution emergencies

These ECCC programs contribute to advancing:

Canadian Indicator Framework (CIF) ambitions:

• Canadians consume in a sustainable manner
  • Target: Zero-emission vehicles represent 10% of new light duty vehicle sales by 2025, 30% by 2030 and 100% by 2040

• 12.2/12.3 Canadians consume in a sustainable manner
  • Target: No specific target

Global Indicator Framework (GIF) targets:

• 12.1 Implement the 10-Year Framework of Programmes on Sustainable Consumption and Production Patterns, all countries taking action, with developed countries taking the lead, taking into account the development and capabilities of developing countries
• 12.2 By 2030, achieve the sustainable management and efficient use of natural resources
• 12.3 By 2030, halve per capita global food waste at the retail and consumer levels and reduce food losses along production and supply chains, including post-harvest losses
• 12.4 By 2020, achieve the environmentally sound management of chemicals and all wastes throughout their life cycle, in accordance with agreed international frameworks, and significantly reduce their release to air, water and soil in order to minimize their adverse impacts on human health and the environment
• 12.5 By 2030, substantially reduce waste generation through prevention, reduction, recycling, and reuse
• 12.6 Encourage companies, especially large and transnational companies, to adopt sustainable practices and to integrate sustainability information into their reporting cycle
• 12.7 Promote public procurement practices that are sustainable, in accordance with national policies and priorities
• 12.8 By 2030, ensure that people everywhere have the relevant information and awareness for sustainable development and lifestyles in harmony with nature
• 12.a Support developing countries to strengthen their scientific and technological capacity to move towards more sustainable patterns of consumption and production
• 12.b Develop and implement tools to monitor sustainable development impacts for sustainable tourism that creates jobs and promotes local culture and products.

100% of risk management actions were taken in a timely manner to protect Canada's environment from chemicals found to be a risk to the environment.

Through the Chemicals Management Plan (CMP), the Government of Canada works with domestic and international partners to assess and manage risks to human health and the environment posed by chemical substances. Engagement with a variety of stakeholders and partners, and outreach to the public are fundamental to delivering the core functions of the CMP. Under CEPA, the Government of Canada is responsible for encouraging the participation of Canadians in all stages of the decision-making process, and for providing information to Canadians on human health and the state of the environment. Once it has been determined that a chemical substance poses a risk, risk management instruments (mandatory or voluntary) are then identified, developed, and put into action to help prevent, reduce, or eliminate that risk.

The Government of Canada, led by ECCC, held national consultations in 2022 on supply chain transparency and mandatory labelling for chemicals in consumer products to support sustainable products and sustainable decision-making, including through regulatory or other equally effective actions. The information collected through the consultations will inform a strategy that will be published in spring 2025 on the government’s approach to enhance the availability of information on chemicals in products to support the protection of the environment and human health.

This initiative will help the Government of Canada identify and propose options to respond to a growing demand for readily accessible information on chemicals in products and more transparency throughout the product supply chain. The end results will support ECCC’s efforts on the plastics agenda and circular economy, inform sustainable business growth, as well, as businesses and consumer decision-making, and provide broader insight into a critical knowledge gap for Environment and Climate Change Canada and Health Canada.

The Chemicals Management Plan (CMP): 100% of the existing chemicals were addressed within targeted timelines; 80% of new substances (chemicals, polymers, and animate products of biotechnology) were assessed within prescribed timelines; and 99.8% of the 4,363 existing chemicals that were prioritized under the Chemicals Management Plan were addressed.

Internationally, Canada continues to champion the Ocean Plastics Charter, launched during our 2018 G7 Presidency. In support of the Charter, Canada delivered $100M to help address plastic waste in developing countries, spark innovation to beat plastic pollution, and support innovative private-public partnerships, and played an important role as a co-facilitator during the United Nations Environment Assembly (UNEA-5), where the global community came together to recognize the plastic pollution crisis as an environmental priority, and unanimously agreed to develop a new international legally binding instrument on plastic pollution.

Canada is also an inaugural member of the High Ambition Coalition to End Plastic Pollution by 2040 towards the negotiation of the new global agreement and a member of the Host Country Alliance. Canada provided $4M to the United Nations Environment Program to help ensure inclusive, equitable and transparent negotiations towards an ambitious global agreement. Canada was the proud host of the fourth negotiation session towards the development of the global agreement (INC-4) in Ottawa in April 2024, and remains committed to working with all countries and partners towards the development of an ambitious global treaty that addresses the full lifecycle of plastics.

Since its 2018 G7 Presidency, Canada has continued to champion the Ocean Plastics Charter, with a view to advancing international momentum on tackling plastic pollution. Providing a framework for achieving zero plastic waste, the Charter takes a comprehensive, full lifecycle approach to address plastic pollution, and aligns with the UN 2030 UN Agenda for Sustainable Development.

Canada hosted a successful fourth session of negotiations (INC-4) of the new global treaty on plastic pollution. To date, all five planned sessions of the intergovernmental negotiating committee (INC) have taken place, and the resumed fifth session (INC-5.2) will take place in Geneva in August 2025 to finalize the treaty text. Canada has been a leader throughout the negotiations, advocating for an ambitious and effective treaty, as an inaugural member of the High Ambition Coalition to End Plastic Pollution, and, by launching the Host Country Alliance at INC-4 to maintain political momentum towards an ambitious and effective treaty. Since then, Canada has continued to work with other countries and stakeholders towards finalizing a treaty that is ambitious and fit for purpose at INC-5.2.

The Clean Growth and Climate Change Mitigation Program’s activities include supporting, coordinating, developing, and implementing Canada’s environmental and climate change policies, programs, regulations and plans to reduce greenhouse gas emissions (GHGs). This Program supports the Government of Canada’s commitment to meeting Canada’s GHG emission reduction target of 40 to 45% below 2005 levels by 2030 and net-zero emissions by 2050.

Other useful information on clean growth and climate change mitigation:

• Canadian Net-Zero Emissions Accountability Act
• Canada’s 2030 Emissions Reduction Plan
• 2023 Progress Report on the 2030 Emissions Reduction Plan
• Canada’s 8th National Communication/5th Biennial Report to the UNFCCC.

The Clean Growth and Climate Change Mitigation Program: ECCC announced plans to develop guidance that will require proponents of new oil and gas production projects subject to a federal impact assessment to demonstrate that they will have “best-in-class” low-emissions performance. New projects would have to deliver emissions performance—the amount of greenhouse gas (GHG) pollution it takes to produce a barrel of oil or cubic meter of natural gas—that is best in class, and all future oil and gas projects would have to be net zero by 2050. The draft guidance was published in October 2022 and is available at https://www.strategicassessmentclimatechange.ca/.

Continue to implement Canada’s climate plans and actions

Work closely with provincial, territorial, municipal, and Indigenous partners as well as businesses, non-governmental organizations, academics, experts, Canadians, and other stakeholders to continue implementing the Pan-Canadian Framework (PCF), Canada’s strengthened climate plan (A Healthy Environment and a Healthy Economy) and the 2030 Emissions Reduction Plan.

Note: Please refer to departmental actions related to Implementing the Canadian Net-Zero Emissions Accountability Act, below.

Program: Clean Growth and Climate Change Mitigation

Performance indicator: Canada’s annual greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions (MtCO2e) - projections

Starting point and fiscal year: Annually recalculated 2005 calendar year GHG levels (subject to change as National Inventory Report (NIR) data is updated)

Target: At least 40% reduction in Mt by 2030 calendar year

Note: Canada prepares GHG emissions projections annually using a detailed bottom-up simulation model where energy data is allocated to economic sectors, in accordance with the latest guidelines from the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). The results of the projections are published either in a report submitted to the UNFCCC (e.g., National Communication, Biennial Transparency Report) or in a standalone domestic report. The most recent projections and previous reports can be found on canada.ca.

ECCC’s efforts contributing to the ultimate goal to reduce Canada’s GHG emissions includes:

• Engage partners through the Canadian Council of the Ministers of the Environment to share ideas and information related to climate change priorities and programming.
• Work with provinces and territories to report on actions taken to address climate change.
• Fulfill ongoing commitments made in Canada’s Strengthened Climate Plan, such as continuing to work with provincial and territorial governments to develop a new model ’retrofit’ code for existing buildings, with the goal of collaborating with provinces and territories to have this code in place by 2025.
• Continue to work with partners, including other federal departments and agencies, provinces and territories, and Indigenous partners to implement the 2030 Emissions Reduction Plan, which builds upon the Strengthened Climate Plan.
• Continue to engage with the Net-Zero Advisory Body (NZAB), the independent Body of up to 15 experts that was established as a Governor in Council appointed body under the Canadian Net-Zero Emissions Accountability Act, and publicly respond to its advice. The NZAB is a permanent resource that provides ongoing expert advice to the Minister from now until 2050 as Canada develops and implements its plans to achieve net-zero emissions. Many of the over 120 countries that have committed to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050 have introduced their own net-zero advisory bodies or committees, including the United Kingdom, Germany, New Zealand, and France.
• Active in the Canadian Council of the Ministers of the Environment (CCME) which enables the exchange of ideas and information related to climate change priorities and programming that can be leveraged to advance mitigation and adaptation action, and to find ways to increase the use of clean technologies and executes project activities that are of mutual interest and benefit to its members, these interests include net-zero initiatives, green economic recovery, climate change risk assessment, natural infrastructure and improved adaptation and mitigation metrics).

Relevant targets or ambitions:

GIF Target: SDG 13: Climate Action (Target 13.2)

Indicator result: 34% below 2005 levels

Notes: This value is from Canada’s 2024 Biennial Transparency Report and includes Land Use, Land-Use Change and Forestry (LULUCF) accounting. Based on Canada’s 2024 National Inventory Report (NIR) and projections, GHG emissions peaked in 2007. The 2022 historical result of 5.5% (720 Mt CO₂eq) below 2005 levels is significant, especially given that in 2015, Canada projected emissions to be 2.2% above 2005 levels by 2020 and 9% above by 2030. The 2022 increase was due to a climate-related event (drought) and underscores the urgency of climate action and the risk that climate impacts can drive emissions higher. Despite this, Canada continues to reduce emissions while recognizing that additional efforts will be required to achieve Canada’s 2030 target.

Performance indicator: Canada's annual greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions (Mt CO2e) - historic data

Starting point and fiscal year: Annually recalculated 2005 calendar year GHG levels (subject to change as NIR data is updated)

Target: At least 40% reduction in Mt by 2030 calendar year

Note: The historical value of GHG emissions levels in 2005 (measured in megatons, published in the annual National Inventory Report) are subject to change as both the underlying data and methodology for estimating emissions are revised over time.

Indicator result: 5.5% below 2005 levels

Notes: This value is from Canada’s 2024 Biennial Transparency Report and includes Land Use, Land-Use Change and Forestry (LULUCF) accounting. Based on Canada’s 2024 National Inventory Report (NIR) and projections, GHG emissions peaked in 2007. The 2022 historical result of 5.5% (720 Mt CO₂eq) below 2005 levels is significant, especially given that in 2015, Canada projected emissions to be 2.2% above 2005 levels by 2020 and 9% above by 2030. The 2022 increase was due to a climate-related event (drought) and underscores the urgency of climate action and the risk that climate impacts can drive emissions higher. Despite this, Canada continues to reduce emissions while recognizing that additional efforts will be required to achieve Canada’s 2030 target.

Implement the Canadian Net-Zero Emissions Accountability Act

Continue to work with partners, including other federal departments and agencies, provinces, and territories, and Indigenous partners to implement the 2030 Emissions Reduction Plan.

Program: Clean Growth and Climate Change Mitigation

Performance indicator: Canada’s annual greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions (MtCO2e) - projections

Starting point and fiscal year: Annually recalculated 2005 calendar year GHG levels (subject to change as National Inventory Report (NIR) data is updated)

Target: At least 40% by 2030 calendar year

Note: Canada prepares GHG emissions projections annually using a detailed bottom-up simulation model where energy data is allocated to economic sectors, in accordance with the latest guidelines from the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). The results of the projections are published either in a report submitted to the UNFCCC (e.g., National Communication, Biennial Transparency Report) or in a standalone domestic report. The most recent projections and previous reports can be found on canada.ca.

ECCC’s efforts contributing to the ultimate goal to reduce Canada’s GHG emissions includes:

• Lead the publication of the 2030 Emissions Reduction Plan, tabled in March 2022.
• Publish progress reports on the ongoing implementation of the 2030 Emissions Reduction Plan in 2023, 2025, and 2027, including an update on the progress made towards achieving the 2026 interim objective (20% reduction below 2005 levels by 2026).
• Set a new national greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions reduction target for 2035 by December 1, 2024, in consultation with provinces, territories, Indigenous Peoples, the Net-Zero Advisory Body, and interested persons. Publish a high-level description of the target within one year after the target is set.
• Support the Commissioner of the Environment and Sustainable Development in its examination and reporting on the Government of Canada’s implementation of the CNZEAA; and
• Publish the Minister’s response to the Net-Zero Advisory Body’s (NZAB) annual report (completed in April 2023).

Relevant targets or ambitions:

GIF Target: SDG 13: Climate Action (Target 13.2)

Indicator result: 34% below 2005 levels

Notes: This value is from Canada’s 2024 Biennial Transparency Report and includes Land Use, Land-Use Change and Forestry (LULUCF) accounting. Based on Canada’s 2024 National Inventory Report (NIR) and projections, GHG emissions peaked in 2007. The 2022 historical result of 5.5% (720 Mt CO₂eq) below 2005 levels is significant, especially given that in 2015, Canada projected emissions to be 2.2% above 2005 levels by 2020 and 9% above by 2030. The 2022 increase was due to a climate-related event (drought) and underscores the urgency of climate action and the risk that climate impacts can drive emissions higher. Despite this, Canada continues to reduce emissions while recognizing that additional efforts will be required to achieve Canada’s 2030 target.

Performance indicator: Canada's annual greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions (MtCO2e) - historic data

Starting point and fiscal year: Annually recalculated 2005 calendar year GHG levels (subject to change as National Inventory Report (NIR) data is updated)

Target: At least 40% by 2030 calendar year

Note: The historical value of GHG emissions levels in 2005 (measured in megatons, published in the annual National Inventory Report) are subject to change as both the underlying data and methodology for estimating emissions are revised over time.

Indicator result: 5.5% below 2005 levels

Notes: This value is from Canada’s 2024 Biennial Transparency Report and includes Land Use, Land-Use Change and Forestry (LULUCF) accounting. Based on Canada’s 2024 National Inventory Report (NIR) and projections, GHG emissions peaked in 2007. The 2022 historical result of 5.5% (720 Mt CO₂eq) below 2005 levels is significant, especially given that in 2015, Canada projected emissions to be 2.2% above 2005 levels by 2020 and 9% above by 2030. The 2022 increase was due to a climate-related event (drought) and underscores the urgency of climate action and the risk that climate impacts can drive emissions higher. Despite this, Canada continues to reduce emissions while recognizing that additional efforts will be required to achieve Canada’s 2030 target.

Other

Effective advocacy for global ambition to reduce direct and indirect impacts of climate change which reflects Canadians’ concerns in all their diversity.

Program: International Environment and Climate Action

Performance indicator: Collaborative processes conducted with stakeholders writ large^{Footnote 17}

Starting point and fiscal year: Indicator established in 2018-19

Target: Listing type/category of stakeholders met annually^{Footnote 18}

International engagement on climate change, led by ECCC and supported by other departments, informed by regular engagement with relevant federal departments and agencies, provincial and territorial governments, First Nations, Inuit and Métis representatives, and stakeholders such as civil society, business, labour, and youth.

Regular engagement is conducted on Canada’s participation in the UNFCCC and the Paris Agreement process with provincial and territorial governments, national Indigenous representatives, and stakeholders including Canadian ENGOs, youth, labour, and business. This engagement is also complemented by a representative and inclusive Canadian delegation to the UNFCCC and the Paris Agreement processes and negotiations, as well as through complementary event and meeting programming.

Relevant targets or ambitions:

GIF Target: SDG 13: Climate Action (Target 13.1, Target 13.3)

Indicator result: Government, International Organizations, Private Sector, Think Tanks Stakeholders

Advancing international climate action by continuing to demonstrate a strong commitment to international leadership on clean growth and climate change.

Program: International Environment and Climate Action

Performance indicator: Percentage of decisions or outcomes at multilateral decision-making body meetings (such as the UNFCCC, G7, G20, and UNEP, etc.) that reflect Canadian objectives

Starting point and fiscal year: 86% in 2022-23

Target: At least 70%, annually

ECCC will strengthen Canada’s capacity to contribute to a worldwide reduction of greenhouse gases (GHGs) to meet global targets. By contributing expertise to key international climate and economic fora:

• Leading Canada’s participation in the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the Paris Agreement with the aim of strengthening global efforts to implement the Paris Agreement.
• Continuing to engage internationally to advance ambitious and inclusive climate action, including through ensuring Indigenous Peoples are engaged in developing international climate policy, and by promoting gender equality and the role of women in climate action around the world, as well as continuing efforts to ensure that all Parties to the Paris Agreement undertake ambitious actions under a common framework reflecting the highest standards of transparency and environmental integrity;
• Leading Canada’s participation in the Montreal Protocol, while promoting ratification and global implementation of the Kigali Amendment on the phase-down of hydrofluorocarbons; and
• Promoting Canadian climate and environmental objectives bilaterally and regionally through trade agreements and Environmental Cooperation Agreements as well as international fora such as the G7, G20, OECD, UNEP-UNEA, UNGA, Francophonie, Commonwealth, the World Meteorological Organization and in other Ministerial meetings.
• Expanding the Global Carbon Pricing Challenge, announced by Canada at COP26, which calls on all countries to adopt explicit carbon pricing systems as part of their suite of climate policies, with a collective goal of covering 60% of global greenhouse gas emissions by 2030.
• Working with international partners will contribute to international goals under the Pan-Canadian Framework (PCF), such as the implementation of the Paris Agreement and the delivery of Canada’s climate finance commitment to support developing countries in tackling climate change.

Relevant targets or ambitions:

GIF Target: UN SDG 13: Climate Action (Target 13.A)

Indicator result: 88.43%

Strengthened Methane Regulations for the Oil and Gas Sector and continue administering Canada’s existing oil and gas methane regulations that came into effect in 2020.

Program: Clean Growth and Climate Change Mitigation

Performance indicator: Percentage reduction of methane emissions from the oil and gas sector

Starting point and fiscal year: Annually recalculated 2012 oil and gas sector methane emissions levels

Target: At least 40% by 2025 calendar year, then at least 75% by 2030 calendar year

Note: Methane is a short-lived climate pollutant that contributes to climate change and air pollution. In 2018, the Regulations Respecting Reduction in the Release of Methane and Certain Volatile Organic Compounds (Upstream Oil and Gas Sector), were published to reduce methane emissions from the oil and gas sector by 40% to 45% below 2012 levels by 2025.

The 2024 National Inventory Report estimates a 31.9% reduction (26.9Mt) of oil and gas sector methane emissions below a 2012 baseline, which includes data up to the calendar year 2022. Further reductions are expected by 2025 as additional elements of the regulations take effect starting in 2023.

In 2023, ECCC published draft amendments to the 2018 regulations towards achieving a strengthened target of at least 75% below 2012 levels by 2030.

Methane is a short-lived climate pollutant that contributes to climate change and air pollution. Reducing methane emissions from Canada’s oil and gas sector will contribute to Canada’s overall greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions targets. In 2023, ECCC published draft amendments to the 2018 regulations towards achieving a strengthened target of at least 75% below 2012 levels by 2030.^{Footnote 19}

Relevant targets or ambitions:

GIF Target: UN SDG 13: Climate Action (Target 13.2)

Indicator result: 39.9%

Notes: 51.0 Mt CO2e reduction

Implement the Greening Government Strategy through measures that reduce greenhouse gas emissions, improve climate resilience, and green the government’s overall operations

Determine the most cost-effective pathway to achieve net-zero emissions operations in facilities and fleet, as well as opportunities for portfolio rationalization and space optimization, by undertaking a strategic evaluation of the Department’s real property portfolio.

Program: Internal Services

Performance indicator: Percentage reduction in Greenhouse Gas emissions from ECCC operations

Starting point and fiscal year: 39.6% in 2022-23

Target: At least 40% by 2024-25

Note: This indicator shows how the Department is progressing towards meeting its goals to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050, as outlined under the GGS.

The Department will ensure that the findings from the strategic evaluation of the its real property portfolio are taken into consideration in investment planning associated with greenhouse gas (GHG) emission reductions projects in the Departments real property portfolio and that all new buildings, major building retrofits, and fleet actions prioritize net-zero emissions investments based on integrated design principles, and lifecycle and total-cost-of-ownership assessments, which incorporate shadow carbon pricing. ECCC will contribute to further reduce GHG emissions from its facilities and fleet by ensuring that the most cost-effective pathway to achieve net-zero emissions operations is pursued, taking into consideration opportunities for portfolio rationalization and space optimization in investment planning associated with GHG emission reductions projects in its real property portfolio, and ensuring that all facilities and fleet prioritize net-zero emissions investments.

Relevant targets or ambitions:

GIF Target: UN SDG 13: Climate Action (Target 13.2)

Indicator result: 42%

Notes: Results for this indicator are reported in arrears. The 2024-25 result represents 2023-24 data.

Modernize through net-zero carbon buildings

Determine the most cost-effective pathway to achieve net-zero emissions operations in new federal buildings, as well as opportunities for portfolio rationalization and space optimization, by undertaking a strategic evaluation of the Department’s real property portfolio.

Program: Internal Services

Performance indicator: Percentage of new federal buildings (including build-to-lease and public-private partnerships) that are net-zero emissions or had a life-cycle cost-benefit analysis that indicates net-zero-emissions-ready construction

Starting point and fiscal year: No new buildings were constructed in the 2021-22 starting year

Target: 100% by 2023-24

Note: This indicator shows how the Department is progressing towards meeting its goals to prioritize low-carbon and climate resilience in new federal buildings, as outlined under the GGS.

The Department will ensure that these findings are then taken into consideration in investment planning associated with greenhouse gas (GHG) emission reductions projects in the Department’s real property portfolio and that all new federal buildings, including significant energy performance contracts, prioritize net-zero emissions investments based on integrated design principles, and lifecycle cost approach and total-cost-of-ownership assessments, using a period of 40 years and a carbon shadow price of $300 per tonne. ECCC will contribute to further reduce GHG emissions from its facilities by:

ensuring that the most cost-effective pathway to achieve net-zero emissions operations is pursued,

taking into consideration opportunities for portfolio rationalization and space optimization in investment planning associated with GHG emission reductions projects in its real property portfolio, and ensuring that all new buildings prioritize net-zero emissions investments.

Relevant targets or ambitions:

GIF Target: UN SDG 13: Climate Action (Target 13.2)

Indicator result: N/A

Notes: There were no new federal buildings in 2024-25. It was completed for previous buildings and will be in the future.

Apply a greenhouse gas reduction life-cycle cost analysis for major building retrofits

Determine the most cost-effective pathway to achieve net-zero emissions operations through major building retrofits, as well as opportunities for portfolio rationalization and space optimization, by undertaking a strategic evaluation of the Department’s real property portfolio.

Program: Internal Services

Performance indicator: Percentage of major building retrofits, including significant energy performance contracts, for which a greenhouse gas (GHG) reduction life-cycle cost analysis was completed

Starting point and fiscal year: No major retrofits or energy performance contracts were completed in 2021-22 or 2022-23

Target: 100% by 2024-25

Note: This indicator shows how the Department is progressing towards meeting its goals to prioritize low-carbon and climate resilience in major building retrofits, as outlined under the GGS.

The Department will ensure that these findings are then taken into consideration in investment planning associated with greenhouse gas (GHG) emission reductions projects in the Department’s real property portfolio and that all major building retrofits, including significant energy performance contracts, prioritize net-zero emissions investments based on integrated design principles, and lifecycle cost approach and total-cost-of-ownership assessments, using a period of 40 years and a carbon shadow price of $300 per tonne. ECCC will contribute to further reduce GHG emissions from its facilities by conducting whole building (or asset) life-cycle assessments by 2025 at the latest for major buildings and infrastructure projects; and

ensuring that the most cost-effective pathway to achieve net-zero emissions operations is pursued,

taking into consideration opportunities for portfolio rationalization and space optimization in investment planning associated with GHG emission reductions projects in its real property portfolio, and ensuring that all major building retrofits prioritize net-zero emissions investments.

Relevant targets or ambitions:

GIF Target: UN SDG 13: Climate Action (Target 13.2)

Indicator result: N/A

Notes: No major retrofits were completed in 2024-25. A GHG reduction life-cycle cost analysis will be included in any planned large or major building retrofits.

Reduce risks posed by climate change to federal assets, services and operations

Take action to understand the wide range of climate change impacts that could potentially affect ECCC assets, services, and operations. Develop measures to reduce climate change risks to ECCC assets, services, and operations.

Integrate risks and potential risk reduction strategies into business continuity or departmental risk planning processes, or equivalent.

Program: Internal Services

Performance indicator: Percentage of time where the Departmental climate change portfolio risk assessment is updated as required^{Footnote 20}

Starting point and fiscal year: 100% in 2018-19

Target: 100% annually

Note: ECCC identifies significant climate-related risks to its portfolio and assets and takes action to reduce those risks. This indicator shows how the Department is progressing towards meeting its goals to enhance the climate resilience of its critical services and activities by 2035, as outlined under the GGS.

Actions and measures are part of a Departmental adaptation plan that will improve ECCC’s understanding of the impacts of climate change and support the transition to more climate-resilient departmental operations.

Relevant targets or ambitions:

GIF Target: UN SDG 13: Climate Action (Target 13.1)

Indicator result: 100%

Strengthen Indigenous leadership on climate action

Work with Indigenous partners on climate change by engaging and collaborating with First Nations, Inuit and Métis on policies, programs, and other priorities, including through distinctions-based bilateral tables.

Program: Clean Growth and Climate Change Mitigation

Performance indicator: Percentage of national climate change policies or strategies developed by the Department that integrate the knowledge and perspectives of First Nations, Inuit, and Metis

Starting point and fiscal year: 100% in 2022-23

Target: 100%, annually

Note: This measure respects the rights of Indigenous Peoples to be engaged in the implementation of Canada’s climate plan through participation in robust, meaningful engagement and reiterates the federal government’s commitment to renewed nation-to-nation, Inuit-to-Crown, and government-to-government relationships with First Nations, Inuit, and the Métis Nation.

ECCC will continue its partnerships with Indigenous Peoples, who are vital to the successful implementation of Canada’s climate plan. ECCC will continue to collaborate through distinctions-based tables with First Nations, Inuit, and Métis, in partnership with the Assembly of First Nations, Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami, and the Métis National Council. These tables support the implementation of Canada’s climate plan on an ongoing basis and help to inform the design of clean growth and climate change policy and programs to support Indigenous Peoples’ leadership on climate action.^{Footnote 21}

ECCC is engaging Indigenous Peoples in the development of protocols under the Federal Greenhouse Gas Offset System. ECCC is also exploring measures to reduce barriers and increase participation of Indigenous Peoples in the federal offset system so that they can benefit from climate mitigation and economic development opportunities.

Relevant targets or ambitions:

GIF Target: UN SDG 13: Climate Action (Target 13.1)

Indicator result: 100%

Support climate change adaptation across Canada

Support a coordinated and strategic government-wide approach to adaptation and climate resilience.

Program: Climate Change Adaptation

Performance indicator: Cumulative Number of metrics to improve our understanding of Canada’s resilience to climate change

Starting point and fiscal year: 0 in 2020-21

Target: At least 5 by 2025-26

Note: Climate-change adaptation indicators at the national level ought to be aligned with the content of the Canadian National Adaptation Strategy and will be developed in parallel with it.

Contributes to the FSDS Goal of taking effective action on climate change, as it supports a coordinated and strategic approach to adaptation and climate resilience.

Relevant targets or ambitions:

GIF Target: UN SDG 13: Climate Action (Target 13.1)

Indicator result: 13 metrics

The Climate Action and Awareness Fund supports youth climate awareness priority.

Program: Community and Sustainability

Performance indicator: Percentage of target audience that confirmed modification in behavior as a result of project activities

Starting point and fiscal year: 65.6% in 2022-23

Target: At least 70% by 2024-25

Ten projects will engage and increase youth awareness across Canada, providing youth with opportunities to contribute to reducing Canada’s Greenhouse gas emissions and building a sustainable net-zero emissions economy by 2050. Projects support youth climate awareness in the kindergarten to Grade 12 (K-12; Maternelle-CÉGEP in Quebec) in providing information on how their daily actions can collectively make a meaningful contribution to the reduction of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and help address climate change.

Relevant targets or ambitions:

GIF Target: UN SDG 13: Climate Action (Target 13.1)

Indicator result: 75%

The Climate Action and Awareness Fund’s community-based climate action priority supports projects that develop knowledge, tools and/or skills that engage communities in climate action.

Program: Community and Sustainability

Performance indicator: Annual number of participants engaged in project activities related to building capacity for climate action

Starting point and fiscal year: 115,172 in 2022-23

Target: At least 200,000 by 2024-25

Community-based climate action projects help to support Canada’s goals for climate action, such as net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.

Relevant targets or ambitions:

GIF Target: UN SDG 13: Climate Action (Target 13.1)

Indicator result: 121,713

Notes: While the overall target of 200,000 participants was not met, the majority of projects achieved or exceeded their respective targets. A small number of projects did not meet their anticipated targets due to ability to reach target communities within the data collection period. The Program will continue to work with recipients to ensure that project results are met by providing support and communicating with recipients on anticipated goals.

The Clean Growth and Climate Change Mitigation Program’s activities include supporting, coordinating, developing, and implementing Canada’s environmental and climate change policies, programs, regulations and plans to reduce greenhouse gas emissions (GHGs). This Program supports the Government of Canada’s commitment to meeting Canada’s GHG emission reduction target of 40 to 45% below 2005 levels by 2030 and net-zero emissions by 2050.

Other useful information on clean growth and climate change mitigation:

• Pan-Canadian Framework on Clean Growth and Climate Change
• Canadian Net-Zero Emissions Accountability Act
• Canada’s 2030 Emissions Reduction Plan
• 2023 Progress Report on the 2030 Emissions Reduction Plan
• Faster and Further: Canada’s Methane Strategy
• Canada's 8th National Communication and 5th Biennial Report to the UNFCCC.
• National Action Plan on Open Government 2022-23

These ECCC programs contribute to advancing:

Canadian Indicator Framework (CIF) ambitions:

• 13.1 Canadians reduce their greenhouse gas emissions
  • Target: By 2030, reduce Canada's total greenhouse gas emissions by 40 to 45%, relative to 2005 emission levels. By 2050, achieve economy-wide net-zero greenhouse gas emissions.
• 13.2/13.3 Canadians are well-equipped and resilient to face the effects of Climate change
  • Target: No specific target

Global Indicator Framework (GIF) targets:

• 13.1 Strengthen resilience and adaptive capacity to climate related hazards and natural disasters in all countries.
• 13.2 Integrate climate change measures into national policies, strategies, and planning.
• 13.a Implement the commitment undertaken by developed country parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change to a goal of mobilizing jointly $100B annually by 2020 from all sources to address the needs of developing countries in the context of meaningful mitigation actions and transparency on implementation and fully operationalize the Green Climate Fund through its capitalization as soon as possible.
• 13.b Promote mechanisms for raising capacity for effective climate change-related planning and management in least developed countries and small island developing States, including focusing on women, youth and local and marginalized communities.
• 13.3 Improve education, awareness-raising and human and institutional capacity on climate change mitigation, adaptation, impact reduction and early warning.

Clean Growth and Climate Change Mitigation Program and Climate Change Adaptation Program: In March 2022, the Government of Canada released Canada’s 2030 Emissions Reduction Plan that builds upon previous climate plans, including the 2016 Pan-Canadian Framework on Clean Growth and Climate Change, and the 2020 Strengthened Climate Plan: A Healthy Environment and a Healthy Economy. The 2030 Emissions Reduction Plan includes new measures to reduce emissions and outlines a sector-by-sector roadmap to achieve Canada’s 2030 target of 40-45% below 2005 levels. The 2023 Progress Report on the 2030 Emissions Reduction Plan indicated that Canada is on a solid path towards its 2030 target but more efforts will be needed to meet the target. Canada’s First Biennial Transparency Report under the Paris Agreement, published in December 2024, further supported this assertion.

In December 2024, the Department finalized the Clean Electricity Regulations, which establish a regime to prohibit excessive carbon dioxide emissions from the use of fossil fuel to generate electricity and are an integral part of the Government of Canada’s strategy to meet growing electricity demand with affordable, reliable and clean electricity and to set the country on a path to net-zero by 2050.

In August 2022, Canada launched the Net-Zero Challenge to encourage businesses in Canada to develop and implement credible and effective plans to transition their facilities and operations to net-zero emissions by 2050. The program was launched with 12 founding participating companies. As of June 2025, there are over 280 participants. Participating companies and organizations benefit from technical guidance, best practices, a community of practice of their peers, and the opportunity to publicly highlight their commitment to planning for emission reductions to net-zero by 2050. Companies can also use participation in the program to align with federal procurement and funding processes. The Net-Zero Challenge includes participation tiers to encourage the implementation of net-zero plans and stimulate ambition.

ECCC continued to work in close collaboration with Indigenous partners through the three distinctions-based senior bilateral tables on clean growth and climate change. In addition, ECCC worked closely with First Nations, Inuit and Métis through the Indigenous Climate Leadership Agenda engagement process, which resulted in the submission of region-specific climate strategies and recommendations on their climate priorities and proposals for working in collaboration with the federal government.

In 2024-25, the Low Carbon Economy Fund continued to support projects that cut greenhouse gas emissions, build resilient communities, generate clean growth, and contribute to meeting Canada’s 2030 emissions-reduction target. ECCC continued to work with a wide range of partners, including provinces and territories, Indigenous Peoples, businesses, and not-for-profit organizations, to leverage Low Carbon Economy Fund spending to drive maximum GHG emissions reductions in support of Canada’s climate change targets. Since 2017, the Low Carbon Economy Fund has committed $2.1 billion towards more than 370 projects from coast-to-coast-to-coast, and it is anticipated that these completed and ongoing projects would cumulatively achieve approximately 108 megatonnes of greenhouse emissions reductions by 2050.

ECCC worked to strengthen the capacity of developing countries in mitigating methane (a short-lived climate pollutant and ozone precursor). It managed four climate finance contribution agreements related to mitigation of methane emissions in the biogas (Côte d’Ivoire, India, Serbia) and oil and gas (Nigeria) sectors. Notably, the project in Serbia resulted in the adaptation and translation of two key tools from the Global Methane Initiative, the Solid Waste Emission Estimate Tool and Landfill-gas Screening Tool, which will be used to promote mitigation in non-EU southeastern Europe.

The National Action Plan on Open Government 2022-2024 (NAP) commits to making the Government of Canada more transparent and accountable, while also giving Canadians the chance to take part in how government makes decisions. In response to Milestone 1.3 - “Making climate change science more open and accessible”, ECCC is responsible for reporting on 1.3.1 – New metric to be designed and included in yearly reports to assess open access of climate change science publication [by science-based departments and agencies] using data from an abstract and citation database, and 1.3.2 – Yearly reports on progress against existing metrics that measure how science-based departments and agencies implement open science, with a focus on open access metrics and diverse types of open access, to be released in the open. Progress on these commitments is reported through the National Action Plan on Open Government Tracker. By making climate change science more open and accessible, the Government of Canada is equipping Canadians to make informed decisions and to face the effects of climate change.

The Electric Vehicle Availability Standard was published in the Canada Gazette, Part II, on December 20, 2023. The Regulations, in which ZEV sales requirements are set for passengers’ automobiles and light trucks, is part of the commitments made under the 2030 Emission Reduction Plan (2023 ERP) and making progress toward meeting Canada’s 2030 and 2050 mitigation targets. The Government of Canada is also taking action to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from the oil and gas sector at a pace and scale necessary to achieve Canada’s 2030 and 2050 climate targets. The Government published proposed amendments to the 2018 Oil and Gas Methane Regulations in December 2023 towards achieving at least a 75% reduction in oil and gas methane emissions below 2012 levels by 2030. Draft regulations to establish an emissions cap for the oil and gas sector were published in November 2024. New federal regulations are under development to reduce methane emissions from Canada’s landfills. These regulations are part of the Government’s Strengthened Climate Plan - A Healthy Environment and a Healthy Economy to reduce methane emissions by 30% by 2030 from 2020 levels in support of the Global Methane Pledge.

The final Electric Vehicle Availability Standard was published in the Canada Gazette, Part II, on December 20, 2023. These regulations set zero-emission vehicle sales targets for manufacturers and importers of new passenger cars, SUVs, and pickup trucks (collectively “light-duty vehicles”). The regulations require that at least 20 percent of new light-duty vehicles sold in Canada be zero-emission vehicles by 2026, at least 60 percent by 2030, and 100 percent by 2035. The EVAS will be amended to remove the target for the 2026 model year vehicles to help reduce the economic pressure due to tariffs.

The Climate Change Adaptation Program coordinates action on the adaptation and climate resilience elements of Canada’s National Adaptation Strategy and Canada’s strengthened climate plan. This includes work with other federal departments, provinces, territories, Indigenous Peoples, other countries, and ongoing policy development, such as Canada’s first National Adaptation Strategy and the Government of Canada Adaptation Action Plan. Included here is the climate science, modelling and analysis needed to inform climate-smart decision-making. This Program has also directly delivered on the commitment to improve access to foundational climate science, information, and services through establishment of the Canadian Centre for Climate Services (CCCS) in 2018. The CCCS has since continued working with partners and stakeholders to help Canadians increase their resilience to climate change through information, training, guidance, and resources to support climate-smart decisions, and it collaborates with a national network of regional climate service organizations to increase local capacity.

Federal-Territorial bilateral collaboration mechanisms as described in the National Adaptation Strategy (NAS) were initiated with provinces and territories in 2023, and opportunities for collaboration with Indigenous partners from the outset were pursued. As of March 2025, technical collaboration tables are in place with the governments of Quebec, Manitoba, Yukon, and the Northwest Territories. Discussions are ongoing with the Governments of British Columbia, Nunavut, Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, New Brunswick, and Ontario. In 2024-25, the federal government also continued to implement the National Adaptation Strategy and the Government of Canada Adaptation Action Plan (GOCAAP).

The Canadian Centre for Climate Services (CCCS) results achieved in 2024-25 advanced Global Indicator Framework targets 13.b and 13.3. They also support the horizontal core themes of “Leaving no one behind” and “Reconciliation”. For example, The CCCS continued to advance a northern service delivery model that involves working with other Northern service providers by developing a Northern Climate Services work plan. The CCCS advanced a collaborative project with Shared Value Solutions to develop online resources and training materials for Indigenous professionals and youth who are interested in using western climate data alongside other types of information.

The CCCS, in collaboration with its partners, released new information and features on ClimateData.ca, which received an 81% increase in user sessions compared to the previous fiscal year (2023-24). New additions included: Fire Weather Projections App; Updated Census Subdivisions; Future Building Design Value Summaries; M6 Data; and more. An Outreach Package was also made available to help CCCS users and partners raise awareness about the Portal.

Additionally, significant efforts were made to advance the “News” page of ClimateData.ca, where the latest updates and tools on the site are promoted. Now with an expanded focus, this page houses a variety of climate data articles, co-written with our partners, as well as case studies and thematic series: Hazard Blogs; Map of the Month and Health.

Another stream of focus in 2024-25 was the Pilot Podcast series to raise awareness of key climate information and services topics, such as climate risk assessments and municipal regulations in the context of climate adaptation planning.

For 2024-25, the CCCS Support Desk saw the second greatest number of cases received since opening in 2018, with 678 requests received from target clients in environmental conservation, infrastructure, agriculture, health, energy, media, finance, recreation, municipal services and other industries. The CCCS helped these clients find data to support their climate risk assessments, agricultural planning, infrastructure design, energy consumption forecasting, snowmaking needs, and much more.

Finally, the CCCS has recently produced a State-of-Play Report, in the context of setting the stage for a Climate Risk Data Strategy. This involved engaging 50 organizations and teams, analyzing over 100 documents, reviewing 4 federal climate data inventories containing hundreds of datasets, and collating all of the information in a report to inform the development of the strategy.

ECCC supported Federal, Provincial, and Territorial partners by providing hydrologic, hydraulic, and climate change expertise to 71 flood hazard mapping projects across Canada.  In the ongoing work towards advancing engineering practice in flood hazard mapping, ECCC began the next phase of the "Federal Hydrologic and Hydraulic Procedures for Flood Hazard Delineation" by creating a technical bulletin series, with the extent of focusing on specific hydrotechnical issues in the Federal Flood Mapping Guidelines Series.  The first bulletin in this series published in 2024-25 is "Geomorphic considerations in flood mapping".

ECCC awarded $3.3 million dollars (through 2028) in grants and contributions to nine research institutions across Canada through a competitive application process for projects to improve future projections of flood hazard and advance flood modelling and mapping in Canada. In collaboration with Canadian Water Resources Association (CWRA), ECCC delivered a webinar series to disseminate the outcomes of the research projects funded under the first phase of Flood Hazard Identification and Mapping Program. These webinars were presented live in both official languages and are publicly available as recordings on the CWRA website. 

The Government of Canada Adaptation Action Plan was released in November 2022, alongside the National Adaptation Strategy, as the federal government’s contribution to implementation of the Strategy. The Action Plan represents the Government of Canada’s strategic and targeted action to help meet the Strategy’s goals and objectives.

The National Adaptation Strategy establishes a shared vision for climate resilience in Canada and is underpinned by a set of guiding principles to ensure adaptation investments and solutions in Canada are fair, inclusive, and equitable. The Strategy sets ambitious goals and near-term objectives in five systems that are key to building climate resilience across society:

1. Reducing the risk of climate-related disasters
2. Improving health outcomes and overall wellbeing
3. Protecting and restoring nature and biodiversity
4. Building and maintaining resilient infrastructure
5. Supporting a strong economy and workers

The Strategy unites actors across Canada through shared priorities, cohesive action, and a whole-of-Canada approach to reducing climate change risks.

The CCCS continues to work with partners and stakeholders to help Canadians increase their resilience to climate change through information, training, guidance, and resources that support climate-smart decision making. The CCCS also supports and fosters the development of a national network of regional climate service organizations to provide the localized services that Canadians need and increase local capacity. Funding from the National Adaptation Strategy has allowed ECCC to continue to contribute to the Flood Hazard Identification & Mapping Program (FHIMP), a joint initiative between Environment and Climate Change Canada, Public Safety Canada and led by Natural Resources Canada. The program will provide regulatory-quality flood hazard maps and modelling of future climate scenarios to help Canadians better plan and prepare for floods. Canada’s first National Adaptation Strategy, was finalized in 2023.

Other useful information on climate change adaptation:

• Pan-Canadian Framework on Clean Growth and Climate Change
• A Healthy Environment and a Healthy Economy
• Canadian Centre for Climate Services
• Canada’s National Adaptation Strategy
• Government of Canada Adaptation Action Plan.

The International Environment and Climate Action Program leads Canada’s efforts in the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change and Paris Agreement processes, with a focus on the implementation of the Paris Agreement. It also provides leadership, expertise, and advances Canada’s priorities in other international fora. In addition, the Program helps developing countries transition to sustainable, low-carbon, climate–resilient, nature-positive, and inclusive development through the delivery of Canada’s international climate finance commitments. Climate and environment related finance is also provided to international climate and environmental organizations, and domestic organizations working internationally, that are working to advance global climate change action. The Program co-leads the negotiation of environmental commitments in Canada’s Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) and environmental cooperation agreements including the promotion of substantive climate change provisions. It is also responsible for the implementation of environmental provisions in FTAs and environmental cooperation instruments, as well as promoting the adoption of Canadian cleantech solutions globally to advance climate action. Other useful information on Canada’s international climate change actions:

• Canada’s international action on climate change
• Canada’s Achievements at COP26
• COP27 summary of outcomes
• COP28 summary of outcomes
• COP29 summary of outcomes
• Canada's priorities on climate change
• Canada's international climate finance
• Compendium of Canada’s Engagement in International Environmental Agreements and Instruments.

The International Environment and Climate Action Program: Canada continued to play an active role in multilateral fora, such as the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). At the 28th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP28), Canada and nearly 200 other countries reached a historic agreement on the Global Stocktake which calls for groundbreaking goals to triple renewable energy, double energy efficiency, and, for the first time ever, Parties reached a historic consensus to transition away from fossil fuels in energy systems. In addition, Canada fought so that the world did not backslide on the phasing out of inefficient fossil fuel subsidies and the phase down of unabated coal power—still the single largest sources of CO2 emissions globally.

Canada was one of the first contributors, with $16 million, to the loss and damage fund that was adopted on day one of the conference but had been subject to intense year-long negotiations. Canada also continued to champion the importance of delivering on broader climate finance commitments in support of global mitigation, adaptation, and biodiversity efforts (e.g. nature-based solutions).

Canada worked equally hard to ensure that the importance of protecting nature was emphasized in addressing the climate crisis. At COP28, Canada and partner countries secured recognition that climate and biodiversity action are mutually reinforcing goals. ECCC also supports Global Affairs Canada on the implementation of Canada’s international biodiversity finance commitments ($350M support to developing countries to implement the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework – see SDG15) and co-led the negotiation of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework Fund under the Global Environment Facility. Additionally, Canada is delivering on its $5.3 billion climate finance commitment, which plays an important role in meeting the collective USD100 billion goal. This commitment builds on the success of Canada’s previous $2.65 billion climate finance commitment and helps low and middle-income countries transition to sustainable, low-carbon, climate-resilient, nature-positive, and inclusive development.

The Climate Science 2050: National Priorities for Climate Change Science and Knowledge Report identifies the most pressing climate change science activities that are needed to inform and refine climate action. This report notes the importance of participating in and leveraging science efforts to ensure that Canada’s science and research community continues to build its science capacity, taking advantage of the international science base, and that state-of-science evidence and knowledge informs Canadian climate action. The report also notes the importance of supporting Canada’s commitments to reconciliation through renewal of nation-nation relationships with Indigenous Peoples, through bridging, braiding and weaving of Indigenous Science and Western Science to develop solutions and responses to Canada’s environmental challenges, including climate change. Participation and leadership in international science programs is necessary to allow Canadian data and knowledge to meet the most rigorous scientific standards for quality, accuracy, and credibility, while leveraging international efforts and partnerships.

The Climate Science 2050: ECCC continued to work with other federal departments and agencies towards the publication of the Climate Science 2050: National Priorities for Climate Change Science and Knowledge Report. The report was released in Spring 2024. The final report has already been used to inform our Science Directions in our renewed Science Strategy, supported our outreach with academic partners, and the design of research calls, such as the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada Alliance Mission grants. ECCC will continue to advance climate change science activities aligned with the priority areas identified in the report and explore opportunities to leverage others’ work. ECCC is currently working to identify areas that would benefit from better national and/or federal coordination.

Faster & Further: Canada’s Methane Strategy is Canada’s response to signing the November 2021 Global Methane Pledge (GMP) that commits members to a collective goal of reducing human-caused methane emissions by 30% below 2020 levels by 2030. Through this strategy, Canada will be able to reduce domestic methane emissions by more than 35% by 2030, compared to 2020. As the Government of Canada engages with international partners through fora such as the Climate and Clean Air Coalition (CCAC), the Arctic Council, the Global Methane Initiative, and the Methane Sprint launched at the Major Economies Forum, Canada will continue to demonstrate leadership by supporting cost-effective global reductions, seizing market opportunities, advancing international science, research, and development, and encouraging global action on methane.

In December 2023, ECCC published draft Amendments to the Regulations Respecting Reduction in the Release of Methane and Certain Volatile Organic Compounds (2018), which are expected to lead to achieving Canada’s strengthened target of a 75% reduction in oil and gas methane emissions relative to 2012 levels by 2030.

The Net-Zero Challenge encourages businesses to develop and implement credible and effective plans to transition their facilities and operations to net-zero emissions by 2050. The goal of the Net-Zero Challenge is to normalize net-zero planning so that it becomes a default business practice, builds momentum through guidance and collaboration, and reduces greenhouse gas emissions from industrial and other sectors. The Net-Zero Challenge launched in 2022 and is open to all businesses operating in Canada with net-zero aspirations.

The Net-Zero Challenge was launched to encourage businesses in Canada to develop and implement credible and effective plans to transition their facilities and operations to net-zero emissions by 2050. Participating companies and organizations benefit from technical guidance, best practices, a community of practice of their peers, and the opportunity to publicly highlight their commitment to planning for emission reductions to net-zero by 2050. Companies can also use participation in the program to align with federal procurement and funding processes. The Net-Zero Challenge includes participation tiers to encourage the implementation of net-zero plans and to stimulate ambition.

Build knowledge of coastal and marine ecosystems and marine protected areas

Initiate environmental sensitivities data collection programs to address critical data and knowledge gaps and support evidence-based decision making with respect to emergency preparedness, response, and recovery.

Program: Aquatic Ecosystems Health, Substances and Waste Management

Performance indicator: Percentage of priority areas by region that have environmental data available for environmental emergencies

Starting point and fiscal year: 8% in 2022-23

Target: 100% by 2026-27

Through strategic environmental sensitivities data collection, analysis, integration, and engagement with Indigenous communities, ECCC will enhance emergency preparedness, planning, response, and recovery, including the incorporation of ecological components into risk assessments related to impacts from spills to the marine environment, by such contributing to the FSDS goal “Conserve and protect Canada’s oceans.” Specifically, ECCC will collect data on marine birds, key marine species, shoreline types and characteristics, and other environmental sensitivities and stressors to increase access to new research and data to inform safer navigation and to support incident response.

Relevant targets or ambitions:

GIF Target: UNSDG 14: Conserve & Protect Canada’s Oceans (Target 14.a)

Indicator result: 43%

Co-develop, with Indigenous groups and academic partners, marine bird monitoring and training programs across Canada to strengthen Indigenous communities’ capacity for data collection and monitoring of marine resources and facilitate inclusion of Indigenous knowledge and data in decision making.

Program: Aquatic Ecosystems Health, Substances and Waste Management

Performance indicator: Percentage of engaged Indigenous groups providing data and/or information to support marine safety

Starting point and fiscal year: 0% in 2022-23

Target: 100% by 2026-27

Increased coastal Indigenous community contributions of monitoring data will enhance emergency preparedness, planning, response, and recovery, including the incorporation of ecological components into risk assessments related to impacts from spills to the marine environment. Making data and research products available to inform safer navigation, emergency response planning and marine ecosystems impacts contributes to the FSDS goal “Conserve and protect Canada’s oceans.” The program’s success will be indicated by the number of coastal Indigenous groups that have co-developed marine bird monitoring programs contributing robust abundance, distribution and/or ecosystem health data to the marine pollution preparedness, response, and recovery system.

Relevant targets or ambitions:

GIF Target: UNSDG 14: Conserve & Protect Canada’s Oceans (Target 14.a)

Indicator result: 67%

Notes: This is an Oceans Protection Plan indicator meant to be implemented and achieved over a 5-year period, ending March 31, 2027. The initiative is on-track and expected to meet its target.

Protect, manage, and restore marine and coastal areas

Establish new marine National Wildlife Areas and manage existing marine National Wildlife Areas, National Wildlife Areas, and Migratory Bird Sanctuaries with marine components.

Program: Habitat Conservation and Protection

Performance indicator: Percentage of total coastal and marine areas that are conserved through networks of protected areas, Other Effective area-based Conservation Measures (OECMs) and Indigenous Protected and Conserved Areas (IPCAs)

Starting point and fiscal year: 7.75% in 2017 calendar year

Target: At least 25% by 2025-26

Note: The percentage of Canada’s marine territory that is conserved is a direct measurement of the FSDS contributing action and progress towards Canada’s target. These are national starting points and targets -- i.e., they also include Fisheries and Oceans Canada and Parks Canada Agency.

Funding through the Marine Conservation Target Initiative is used to invest in nature-based solutions such as the establishment of marine protected areas and other effective conservation measures to conserve biodiversity and mitigate climate change. Well-managed conserved areas help conserve species and their habitats for present and future generations by reducing direct human development stresses. As a party to the UN Convention on Biological Diversity, Canada reports on progress toward its area-based conservation targets annually. Frequent reporting provides a transparent way for Canadians to track progress toward our area-based conservation targets and can serve to motivate all Canadian jurisdictions to further advance their efforts related to marine protected area establishment and conserved area recognition and reporting.

Relevant targets or ambitions:

GIF Target: UNSDG 14: Conserve & Protect Canada’s Oceans (Target 14.a)

Indicator result: 15.5%

Notes: While ECCC houses the data for all protected and conserved areas in Canada (terrestrial and marine) through running the Canadian Protected and Conserved Areas Database, the marine component of this indicator is primarily a Department of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO) mandate responsibility, and any additional information is supplied may be sought through by DFO.

Build knowledge to support sustainable fisheries

Improve knowledge of fisheries resources, their productivity and factors affecting them to support sustainable fisheries management.

Program: Aquatic Ecosystems Health, Substances and Waste Management

Performance indicator: Percentage of regulated mines reporting confirmed effects above the critical effect size for fish, fish habitat or fish tissue

Starting point and fiscal year: 71% in 2017-18

Target: At most 71% by 2028-29

Note: The Metal and Diamond Mines Effluent Regulations (MDMER) is a regulatory program that sets limits on pollution in effluent from mines entering marine and fresh waterbodies. It contributes to protecting the health of coastal and marine ecosystems and the sustainability of the fisheries. The monitoring results used for the indicator provide increased knowledge about the impact of mine effluent on the fisheries resource.

The Metal and Diamond Mines Effluent Regulations (MDMER) protect fish, fish habitat and use of fish in marine and freshwater ecosystems by putting in place limits on the levels of pollution in effluents released from mines into waterbodies. Program studies indirectly support sustainable fisheries by consider effects on fish from Metal and Diamond Mines.

Relevant targets or ambitions:

GIF Target: UN SDG 14: Life Below Water (Target 14.2, Target 14.4)

Indicator result: N/A

Notes: Results will not be available until 2028-29 because the updated effluent limits under the Metal and Diamond Mining Effluent Regulations took effect in June 2021 and it will take two full Environmental Effects Monitoring cycles (approximately six years) to assess effects, plus an additional year for data analysis.

Reduce marine litter and support the Canada-wide Strategy on Zero Plastic Waste

Support and conduct science on sources, fates, distribution and impacts of plastic litter and microplastics.

Program: Aquatic Ecosystems Health, Substances and Waste Management

Performance indicator: Amount (in tonnes) of plastics entering into Canada’s natural environment, from both terrestrial and aquatic-based sources

Starting point and fiscal year: ECCC commissioned baseline (starting point) and modelled projections for plastic pollution will be available in 2024-25

Target: Reduction from the baseline for plastic waste in both terrestrial and aquatic environments by 2029-30

Note: Ratifying the amendments on plastic waste on the Basel Convention is a measure of Canada’s participating in and contribution to international discussions, negotiations, and reviews on plastic waste and marine litter. The ratification of the amendments is the point at which Canada is bound to the new controls. The development of the guidelines is an international process, and its completion date is currently unknown.^{Footnote 22Footnote 23}

ECCC contributes to this action by participating in and contribute to international discussions, negotiations and reviews on plastic waste and marine litter; amending the Convention to control plastic waste, updating guidelines related to managing plastic waste, and launching a partnership composed of governments, industry, and NGOs, with the goal to improve and promote the environmentally sound management of plastic waste and reduce plastic waste generation^{Footnote 24}; And conducting targeted education, outreach, and engagement with key sectors and stakeholders. The involvement and leadership of Canada contributes to the FSDS Target.

Relevant targets or ambitions:

GIF Target: UN SDG 14: Life Below Water (Target 14.2, Target 14.4)

Indicator result: N/A

Notes: In 2025, ECCC established a 2019 baseline for plastic leaked into the natural environment, from both terrestrial and aquatic based sources. ECCC remains committed to report on the amount of plastics entering the natural environment as pollution in Canada, in relation to the 2019 baseline, in 2026-27.

Support the recovery and protection of Canada’s endangered whales

Build capacity for conservation activities.

Program: Habitat Conservation and Protection

Performance indicator: Total area (km2) of habitat secured by partners

Starting point and fiscal year: 6,382km2 in 2013-14

Target: 150,000km2 by 2024-25

Note: This is a summary indicator of all of the land securement efforts supported by a variety of ECCC programs. The results of this measure demonstrate the effectiveness of the ECCC support to build capacity for land securement efforts, which supports the contributing action and ultimately biodiversity conservation, as per the FSDS Target.

The Natural Heritage Conservation Program (NHCP), established through the Canada Nature Fund, aims to conserve private land in southern Canada, where the most biodiversity-rich areas are found. by:

• Developing strategic partnerships for collaborative activities such as scientific and academic research, conservation efforts, promotional campaigns and outreach activities.
• Working with the Nature Conservancy of Canada to deliver Government priorities, including to accelerate the rate of private land conservation and protect important natural habitat in communities across southern Canada; and
• Funding the Natural Heritage Conservation Program to assist and support securing of ecologically significant areas across Canada, protect habitat for species at risk (both COSEWIC-assessed and SARA-listed) and migratory birds, and enhance connections and corridors between protected areas.
• Invest in the North American Waterfowl Management Plan ($10M over two years) and partner with the Nature Conservancy of Canada, Ducks Unlimited Canada, Island Nature Trust, and the Manitoba Habitat Heritage Corporation and others to implement the Plan.
• The NHCP also advances partnership through a collaborative governance structure with project partners of national and local land trusts.

Relevant targets or ambitions:

GIF Target: UN SDG 15: Life on Land

(Target 15.1, Target 15.5)

UN SDG 6 Clean Water and Sanitation

Indicator result: 185,982 km2

Support the recovery and protection of Canada’s marine ecosystem and wildlife

Establish new marine National Wildlife Areas.

Program: Habitat Conservation and Protection

Performance indicator: Cumulative number of ECCC marine Protected Areas with demonstrated progress toward establishment or expansion

Starting point and fiscal year: 0 in 2021-22

Target: At least 3 by 2025-26

By establishing new marine National Wildlife Areas ECCC contributes to support the recovery and protection of Canada’s marine ecosystem and wildlife by protecting ecologically important marine habitats and by managing existing marine National Wildlife Areas and National Wildlife Areas and Migratory Bird Sanctuaries with marine components.

Relevant targets or ambitions:

GIF Target: UN SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation (Target 6.3, Target 6.B)

Indicator result: 3

Support projects to improve water quality and help restore ecosystems in the St. Lawrence River.

Program: Canada Water Agency

Performance indicator: Ratio of amount (dollars) contributed by partners per dollar contributed by ECCC through the St. Lawrence Action Plan

Starting point and fiscal year: $11.3 per $1 in 2022-23

Target: $1.12 per $1 by 2024-25

These actions are to

• Reduce nutrient pollution.
• Reduce releases of harmful chemicals.
• Increase public engagement through citizen science.
• Engage Indigenous Peoples.
• Enhance research and monitoring capacity essential to the restoration of the watersheds; and
• Enhance collaboration to protect freshwater quality throughout the watersheds.
• Fund projects through the Atlantic ecosystems initiatives to improve the health, productivity, and long-term sustainability of the ecosystem in Atlantic Canada. By supporting local ecosystem improvement projects, ECCC will engage Canadians in long-term sustainability of healthy and productive ecosystems.

ECCC provides funding to partner-led projects (through the St. Lawrence Action Plan) and other regional initiatives that restore and protect water quality and ecosystem health. Project funding is leveraged by encouraging proponents to secure other sources of financial and in-kind support to maximize the impact of their project(s).

Relevant targets or ambitions:

GIF Target: UN SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation (Target 6.3, Target 6.B)

Indicator result: $1.73 per $1

Performance indicator: Ratio of amount (dollars) contributed by partners per dollar contributed by ECCC through the St. Lawrence Action Plan’s Community Interaction Program

Starting point and fiscal year: $0.94 per $1 in 2022-23

Target: $1 per $1 by 2024-25

Indicator result: $1.17 per $1

Notes: This indicator falls under the responsibility of the Canada Water Agency.

Performance indicator: Ratio of amount (dollars) contributed by partners per dollar contributed by ECCC through regional initiatives other than the St. Lawrence Action Plan (Atlantic Ecosystems Initiatives)

Starting point and fiscal year: $1.41per $1 in 2022-23

Target: $1 per $1 by 2024-25

Indicator result: N/A

Notes: This indicator falls under the responsibility of the Canada Water Agency. It has been replaced by the following three indicators:

• Ratio of amount (dollars) contributed by partners per dollar contributed by ECCC through the Great Lakes Program
  • Target: 1$ per 1$ by 2024-25
  • Result: $1.93
• Ratio of amount (dollars) contributed by partners per dollar contributed by ECCC through the Lake Winnipeg Basin Program.
  • Target: 2$ per 1$ by 2024-25
  • Result: $3.27
• Ratio of amount (dollars) contributed by partners per dollar contributed by ECCC through regional initiatives other than the St. Lawrence Action Plan (Atlantic Ecosystems Initiatives)
  • Target: 2$ per 1$ by 2024-25
  • Result: N/A * The first funding call was in fiscal 2024-25 and all projects are multi-year with none ending March 31, 2025, which means there are no results to report for this fiscal.

Management of Substances and Waste Program aims to reduce threats to the health of Canadians and their environment from harmful substances and waste and to reduce threats to Canada’s aquatic system and prevent marine pollution and contributes to ecosystem health in oceans and the Antarctic. The Program also implements regulations to reduce and prevent environmental emergencies and responds to environmental emergencies 24/7, by providing scientific and technical advice and ensuring measures are taken to protect the environment. The Program also implements regulations to reduce and prevent environmental emergencies and responds to environmental emergencies 24/7, by providing scientific and technical advice and ensuring measure are taken to protect the environment. The Oceans Protection Plan (OPP) was launched in November 2017 to protect Canada’s coasts and waterways. Under the OPP, Canada restored more than 650M square meters of aquatic habitat; made it illegal to abandon vessels in the waters; funded 500 projects to remove or dispose of abandoned vessels across the country; surveyed 16,000 kilometers of shoreline to better understand coastal habitat; and helped with the survival and recovery of 223 threatened or endangered species. In 2022, the OPP was renewed for another nine years with a $3.5B investment to build and expand on the existing work to protect Canada’s coasts and waterways. The next phase of OPP will reduce risks and mitigate damage to marine ecosystems and coastal communities from marine shipping, including aquatic invasive species and wrecked, abandoned, and hazardous vessels.

Other useful information on substances and waste management:

• Pollution and waste management
• Waste management in Canada
• Plastic waste and pollution reduction
• Pollution emergencies

These ECCC programs contribute to advancing:

Canadian Indicator Framework (CIF) ambitions:

• 14.1 Canada protects and conserves marine areas and sustainably manages ocean fish stocks
  • Target: Conserve 25% of Canada's oceans by 2025, working towards 30% by 2030

Global Indicator Framework (GIF) targets:

• 14.1 By 2025, prevent and significantly reduce marine pollution of all kinds, in particular from land-based activities, including marine debris and nutrient pollution
• 14.2 By 2020, sustainably manage and protect marine and coastal ecosystems to avoid significant adverse impacts, including by strengthening their resilience, and take action for their restoration in order to achieve healthy and productive oceans
• 14.3 Minimize and address the impacts of ocean acidification, including through enhanced scientific cooperation at all levels
• 14.4 By 2020, effectively regulate harvesting and end overfishing, illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing and destructive fishing practices and implement science-based management plans, in order to restore fish stocks in the shortest time feasible, at least to levels that can produce maximum sustainable yield as determined by their biological characteristics
• 14.5 Conserve 25% of marine and coastal areas by 2025, and 30% by 2030, in support of the commitment to work to halt and reverse nature loss by 2030 in Canada and achieve full recovery for nature by 2050.
• 14.a Increase scientific knowledge, develop research capacity and transfer marine technology, taking into account the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission Criteria and Guidelines on the Transfer of Marine Technology, in order to improve ocean health and to enhance the contribution of marine biodiversity to the development of developing countries, in particular small island developing States and least developed countries
• 14.c Enhance the conservation and sustainable use of oceans and their resources by implementing international law as reflected in the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, which provides the legal framework for the conservation and sustainable use of oceans and their resources, as recalled in paragraph 158 of “The future we want”

Oceans Protection Plan: Through strategic environmental sensitivities data collection, analysis, and integration, as well as increased coastal Indigenous community contributions of monitoring data, ECCC is enhancing emergency preparedness, planning, response, and recovery for spills in the marine environment. Specifically, ECCC is continuing to collect data on marine birds, shoreline types and characteristics, and other environmental sensitivities and stressors to increase access to new research and data to inform safer navigation and support incident response.

In 2024-25, ECCC collected and consolidated environmental sensitivities data for 43% of priority areas across Canada. In addition, 67% of engaged Indigenous groups are contributing marine bird monitoring data to support marine emergency preparedness.

In 2024-25, ECCC contributed to the prevention of marine pollution through the general prohibition on disposal at sea under the Canadian Environmental Protection Act (CEPA), and by issuing permits for the disposal of low-risk materials after a thorough assessment of the material and disposal location to ensure no marine pollution would be created.

Internationally, Canada continues to champion the Ocean Plastics Charter, launched during our 2018 G7 Presidency. In support of the Charter, Canada delivered $100M to help address plastic waste in developing countries, spark innovation to beat plastic pollution, and support innovative private-public partnerships, and played an important role as a co-facilitator during the United Nations Environment Assembly (UNEA-5), where the global community came together to recognize the plastic pollution crisis as an environmental priority, and unanimously agreed to develop a new international legally binding instrument on plastic pollution. Canada is also an inaugural member of the High Ambition Coalition to End Plastic Pollution by 2040 towards the negotiation of the new global agreement and a member of the Host Country Alliance. Canada provided $4M to the United Nations Environment Program to help ensure inclusive, equitable and transparent negotiations towards an ambitious global agreement. Canada remains committed to working with all countries and partners towards the development of an ambitious global treaty that addresses the full lifecycle of plastics, with the fifth negotiation session taking place in Busan, Republic of Korea in November/December 2024.

Through Canada’s $5.3B international climate finance commitment, Canada is supporting innovative initiatives that are helping to scale up private and philanthropic investment in nature-based solutions for ocean health and coastal resilience in particularly vulnerable countries and ecosystems. As announced by Prime Minister Trudeau at COP26 in 2021, Canada is funding $9M in support for the Ocean Risk and Resilience Action Alliance (ORRAA) for ongoing work helping Small Island Developing States and coastal developing countries increase their resilience to the impacts of climate change through nature-based solutions. The Prime Minister also announced Canada’s commitment of $6M for the Global Fund for Coral Reefs (GFCR) to support international efforts in coral reef conservation and restoration.

The Compliance Promotion and Enforcement - Pollution Program works to minimize damage to the environment from pollution by promoting compliance and applying a risk-based approach to enforce environmental laws, regulations and other instruments administered by Environment and Climate Change Canada.

Other useful information on enforcement activities related to the protection of water resources:

• Compliance and enforcement policy for habitat and pollution provisions of Fisheries Act
• Understanding the Canadian Environmental Protection Act
• Canadian Environmental Protection Act: compliance and enforcement policy
• Policy framework to implement the Environmental Violations Administrative Monetary Penalties Act

Since its 2018 G7 Presidency, Canada continues to champion the Ocean Plastics Charter, with a view to advancing international momentum on tackling plastic pollution. Providing a framework for achieving zero plastic waste, the Charter takes a comprehensive, full lifecycle approach to address plastic pollution, and aligns with the 2030 UN Sustainable Development Agenda.

Canada hosted a successful fourth session of negotiations (INC-4) of the new global treaty on plastic pollution. To date, all five planned sessions of the intergovernmental negotiating committee (INC) have taken place. Canada has been a leader throughout the negotiations, advocating for an ambitious and effective treaty, including as an inaugural member of the High Ambition Coalition to End Plastic Pollution, and by launching the Host Country Alliance to maintain political momentum towards a successful outcome. Canada is committed to finalizing a treaty that is fit for purpose in 2025, at the resumed fifth session of the INC (INC-5.2), to be held in Geneva in August. 

As part of its commitment to being at the forefront of the collective resolve and action to end plastic pollution, Canada also provided $4 million to the United Nations Environment Programme to help ensure inclusive, equitable and transparent negotiations towards an ambitious new global treaty on plastic pollution.

Under Canada’s contribution, the Ocean Risk and Resilience Action Alliance (ORRAA) issued a Call for Proposals to identify 10 locally-led projects to support. These projects aim to strengthen the resilience and adaptive capacity of vulnerable coastal communities in the Global South through finance and insurance products. The projects that ORRAA are managing deploy various activities, including scoping and feasibility studies, pilot testing, and implementing novel financing solutions integrated with conservation/blue carbon activities, capacity building, research, gender focus, policy engagement and public-private partnerships. ORRAA’s project management includes support for planning, target setting, budget administration, and robust Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning (MEL) activities to achieve the grant outcomes. Canada’s support also enabled ORRAA to begin scoping the Sea Change Impact Financing Facility (SCIFF), an open platform that aims to drive at least USD $1 billion of private investment into coastal and ocean ecosystems by 2030, a springboard from which to mobilize at least USD $2.5 billion of broader finance capital.

Through contributions from Canada and other donors, the Global Fund for Coral Reefs (GFCR) expanded its program implementation from 12 to 19 coral nations and mobilized over USD $35 million for conservation action, with plans for further expansion to reach 23 priority coral nations. New programs grant funds launched include country initiatives for Jordan, Sri Lanka, Indonesia, Seychelles, and Maldives, as well as a regional program for Micronesia, encompassing the Federated States of Micronesia, the Republic of the Marshall Islands, and the Republic of Palau. As of 2025, GFCR has a number of additional important advancements underway, including the development of a new programme for the Solomon Islands, the design of a philanthropy-backed debt facility for mid-range transactions, anticipated new investments in Kenya, and the successful conclusion of the Papua New Guinea guarantee transaction.

The Compliance Promotion and Enforcement - Pollution Program: ECCC’s environmental enforcement officers conducted 4,359 inspections and initiated 33 new investigations under the Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999 and the Fisheries Act, and resulted in the implementation of 744 enforcement measures, including Administrative Monetary Penalties (AMPs), compliance orders, tickets, warnings, directions, and one alternative measure. Investigations led to 10 convictions and 2 new prosecutions. In 2024-25, a total of $14,000,000 in penalties resulted from prosecutions. Additionally, monetary penalties resulting from AMPs totaled $651,300 between April 1, 2024, and March 31, 2025.

The Habitat Conservation and Protection Program aims to secure, protect, connect, improve, and restore ecologically sensitive habitat, including wetlands, to contribute to the conservation and protection of migratory birds, species at risk and other wildlife, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. ECCC establishes marine National Wildlife Areas, and National Wildlife Areas and Migratory Bird Sanctuaries, with marine components, to protect wildlife and wildlife habitat (in particular, migratory birds and species at risk) for the purpose of conservation, research, and interpretation. With funding provided through the Marine Conservation Target Initiative and in alignment with the 2019 Federal Marine Protection Standard, ECCC will work to establish new marine National Wildlife Areas and manage existing National Wildlife Areas with marine components that are established under the Canada Wildlife Act. It will also manage existing Migratory Bird Sanctuaries with marine components that are established under the Migratory Birds Convention Act.

Other useful information on habitat conservation and protection:

• Protected areas
• Wildlife, plants, and species
• Biodiversity.

Habitat Conservation and Protection Program: ECCC continues to make important contributions towards meeting Canada’s marine conservation targets. As of the end of 2024, 31,072km2 of marine habitat are protected as ECCC National Wildlife Areas or Migratory Bird Sanctuaries, including Scott Islands marine National Wildlife Area (NWA), the first protected marine area established under the Canada Wildlife Act, which conserves a vital marine area for millions of seabirds on the Pacific coast. ECCC- Habitat Conservation and Protection Program is also making progress towards designating 3 additional marine National Wildlife Areas. 

Conserve natural spaces

Establish new and expand existing National Wildlife Areas and other conservation areas to increase our capacity to manage, National Wildlife Areas, Migratory Bird Sanctuaries, and other conservation areas and support the protection of private lands that are important for conservation.

Program: Habitat Conservation and Protection

Performance indicator: Total area (km2) of habitat secured directly by ECCC and through partnerships

Starting point and fiscal year: 130,871km2 in 2013 calendar year

Target: At least 300,000km2 by 2025-26

Note: This indicator is a direct measure of the growth of protected areas including National Wildlife Areas, Migratory Bird Sanctuaries and Indigenous-led or co-led protected areas, some of which are Indigenous Protected and Conserved Areas (IPCAs) as determined by Indigenous partners. It also includes other effective area-based conservation measures (OECMs), some of which are Indigenous-led or co-led. This directly supports progress towards the FSDS goal that lands and forests support biodiversity and provide a variety of ecosystem services for generations to come by protecting and conserving important habitat. This network of protected areas also contributes directly to Canada’s total protected and conserved area and is accounted for in assessing progress towards the 25% by 2025 and 30% by 2030 target.

By implementing the Nature Legacy and Enhanced Nature Legacy Initiatives, establishing protected areas, and supporting wetland restoration, ECCC directly contributes to achieving Canada’s land and inland water conservation target of 25% by 2025 and 30% by 2030 with the use of both conventional (direct land securement) and innovative (incentivizing private and public stewardship and conservation through the recognition of lands and other effective area-based conservation measures (OECMs)). By conserving natural spaces of ecological and cultural importance, Canada’s lands and forests are being sustainably managed for future generations.

Securing ecologically sensitive land contributes directly to Canada’s network of protected and conserved areas and supports the goal of sustaining Canada’s biodiversity and ecosystem services for the long-term in Canada’s lands and forests.

Relevant targets or ambitions:

GIF Target: UN SDG 15: Life on Land

(Target 15.1, Target 15.5)

Indicator result: 338,023 km2

Promote and effectively deliver the Ecological Gifts Program to support land trusts and other eligible recipients increase the amount of private lands.

Program: Habitat Conservation and Protection

Performance indicator: Total area (km2) of ecologically sensitive land secured through the Ecological Gifts Program

Starting point and fiscal year: 1,648km2 in 2013-14

Target: At least 2,516km2 by 2026-27

Note: This indicator is a direct measure of the amount of ecologically sensitive land secured through the Ecological Gift Program contributes directly to Canada’s network of protected and conserved areas and supports the goal of sustaining Canada’s biodiversity and ecosystem services for the long-term in Canada’s lands and forests.

By supporting donations of ecologically sensitive lands ECCC supports civil society in contributing to achieving Canada’s land and inland water conservation target.

Relevant targets or ambitions:

GIF Target: UN SDG 15: Life on Land

(Target 15.1, Target 15.5)

Indicator result: 2,593 km2

Support Indigenous leadership in conservation

Work with Indigenous Peoples to protect and conserve lands and waters

Program: Habitat Conservation and Protection

Performance indicator: Cumulative number of Indigenous governments, organizations and communities engaged in ECCC supported habitat conservation and protection initiatives

Starting point and fiscal year: 5 in 2019-20

Target: At least 95 by 2024-25

Note: Increased and meaningful engagement with Indigenous Peoples contributes to building the capacity and support of Indigenous communities to further conserve and grow Canada’s terrestrial and freshwater network of protected and conserved areas.

ECCC consults and collaborates with Indigenous Peoples and invests through the Canada Nature Fund in initiatives that protect and restore biodiversity, and strengthen and renew nation-to-nation, government-to-government, and Inuit-Crown relationships, by:

• Supporting the establishment of Indigenous led or co-led protected areas, some of which are Protected and Conserved Areas (IPCAs) as determined by Indigenous partners.
• Developing management plans for ECCC National Wildlife Areas and Migratory Bird Sanctuaries in Nunavut as part of the Inuit Impact and Benefit Agreement (IIBA).
• Consulting with Indigenous Peoples and the Government of the Northwest Territories with respect to the long-term conservation of additional sites.
• Progressing on officially replacing existing names of northern protected areas with Indigenous names.
• Implementing the terms of the renewed IIBA for ECCC’s conservation areas in the Nunavut Settlement Area with Inuit parties to the agreement.
• Providing ongoing support for Indigenous Guardians initiatives; supporting Indigenous-led natural climate solutions initiatives and
• Providing funding in support of establishing (through a co-development process) three distinctions-based Nature Tables, with First Nations, Inuit, and Métis.

Collaborating with Indigenous Peoples to create management plans for existing sites, and conservation plans for the future, ECCC will contribute to achieving land and inland water conservation targets and enabling long-term, sustainable management approaches and reduction of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions through conservation and restauration of lands.

Relevant targets or ambitions:

GIF Target: UN SDG 15: Life on Land

(Target 15.1, Target 15.2)

Indicator result: 96

Notes: 18 from Indigenous Guardians and 78 for Indigenous-Led Area-Based Conservation.

Performance indicator: Percentage of Indigenous Peoples engaged with ECCC who indicate that the engagement was meaningful

Starting point and fiscal year: 61% in 2018-19

Target: At least 61% annually

Note: This indicator is an appropriate measure as it reflects the perspective of Indigenous Peoples in how meaningfully ECCC works with Indigenous partners to protect and conserve lands and waters. ECCC recognizes that improved decision-making and conservation outcomes result from inclusive processes and meaningful engagement with the Department’s partners, including Indigenous Peoples.

Indicator result: 76%

Other

Work with governmental and non-governmental organisations to implement Canada’s Bonn Challenge on ecosystem restoration throughout Canada’s terrestrial landscapes.

Program: Species at Risk; Habitat Conservation and Protection

Performance indicator: Total area (million hectares) under restoration through the delivery of federal programs (from ECCC, NRCan and Parks Canada)

Starting point and fiscal year: 3.1Mha in 2021-22

Target: At least 19Mha by 2031-32

Note: Canada will report its progress toward the Bonn Challenge pledge on a biennial basis, starting in Winter 2024-25. This indicator also forms part of the Domestic Biodiversity Monitoring Framework under Canada’s 2030 Nature Strategy. It will play a key role in tracking and reporting on progress toward Target 2 of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework.

Canada’s Bonn Challenge pledge fosters momentum and synergies for ecosystem restoration in Canada and contributes to advancing actions toward FSDS Goal 15 (Protect and Recover Species, Conserve Canadian Biodiversity). Restoration is a nature-based solution that also contributes to increasing the capacity of ecosystems to store and sequester carbon, and sheltering Canadians from the effects of climate change (FSDS Target 13.1).

Relevant targets or ambitions:

GIF Target: UN SDG 13: Climate Action

(Target 13.1)

UN SDG 15: Life on Land

(Target 15.1)

Indicator result: 2.4 million hectares under restoration

Better understand lands and forests

Increase understanding of the effects of land cover and use on wildlife and ecosystems by incorporating Indigenous knowledge into management decisions.

Program: Habitat Conservation and Protection

Performance indicator: Cumulative number of direct Indigenous Guardians jobs created

Starting point and fiscal year: 0 in 2021-22

Target: At least 2,000 by 2025-26

Scientific research and Indigenous knowledge are required to manage lands and forests to support biodiversity targets and provide ecosystem services for generations to come. Indigenous Guardians are the “eyes and ears on the ground” in Indigenous territories, and a unique example of reconciliation in action. They monitor ecological health, maintain cultural sites, and protect sensitive areas and species. Guardians’ initiatives support Indigenous peoples in protecting land, water, and ice in their traditional territories through on-the-ground, community-based, stewardship initiatives.

Relevant targets or ambitions:

GIF Target: UN SDG 15: Life on Land

(Target 15.1, Target 15.2)

Indicator result: 980

Notes: Inuit and Metis Guardians: 417 Full time, 563 Part time jobs (new & sustained) for Inuit and Metis.

Deliver enhanced conservation action

Enhance conservation outcomes for migratory bird populations by providing leadership on the conservation of Canada’s migratory birds, including those at risk, through targeted and multispecies ecosystem-based approaches that engage domestic and international collaborators across all sectors of society.

Program: Migratory Birds and Other Wildlife

Performance indicator: Percentage of migratory bird species that are within target population ranges

Starting point and fiscal year: 57% in 2014-15

Target: At least 90% by 2030-31

Note: This measure will inform the programs whether conservation activities have been successful in maintaining and/or increasing migratory bird populations.

ECCC will support Canada’s commitment to maintaining and restoring healthy migratory bird populations through a coordinated action plan focused on three key components: Building Knowledge Foundations through monitoring programs, priority research, and Indigenous knowledge; Applying Knowledge to Conservation through multispecies conservation, regulations, and protected area management; and Fostering Collaboration through strengthened relationships with Indigenous Peoples, domestic collaborations with NGOs, academia, and industry, and international partnerships.

Through these actions, ECCC will mobilize individuals and communities, emphasizing diversity and inclusion to achieve meaningful conservation outcomes.

Relevant targets or ambitions:

GIF Target: UN SDG 15: Life on Land

(Target 15.1, Target 15.5)

Indicator result: 54%

Notes: The reduction in percentage highlights pressures on migratory birds in Canada and globally. ECCC continues to lead conservation efforts, working with domestic and international partners. It provides guidance on major development projects to avoid or reduce impacts on bird populations. Preventing declines is more cost-effective than recovering at-risk species. A key initiative is the modernization of the Migratory Bird Regulations (2022), which clarified protections, including nest protection based on conservation value. These updates aim to improve compliance and support long-term conservation. The indicator is based on monitoring data collated and analyzed via the State of Canada's Birds website. The launch of the redesigned, more powerful State of Canada’s Birds website will allow for more frequent reporting on the indicator and tracking of progress, as the website is scheduled to be updated regularly.

Incorporate conservation actions for the recovery of species into action planning and report on actions through implementation reporting. Action Plans and Implementation Reports will be incorporated into existing work planning.

Program: Species at Risk

Performance indicator: Percentage of species at risk (SAR) for which changes in populations are consistent with recovery and management objectives

Starting point and fiscal year: 43% in 2016-17

Target: At least 60% by 2025-26

Note: This measure will help inform the programs whether the conservation and recovery actions for species at risk contribute to the successful recovery of a species at risk listed under the Species at Risk Act (SARA)

The departmental action directly supports the FSDS goal to protect and recover species at risk. By embedding Action Plans and Implementation Reports into existing work-planning processes, ECCC will ensure a systematic and integrated method of tracking and measuring progress on recovery initiatives. This contributes to the FSDS target of increasing the percentage of species at risk listed under federal law that exhibit population trends consistent with recovery strategies and management plans to 60%, up from a baseline of 425 in 2019. Moreover, these efforts align with Canada’s 2030 Nature Strategy by advancing biodiversity conservation, fostering ecosystem resilience, and promoting sustainable stewardship of natural resources, thereby demonstrating the Department’s commitment to achieving tangible, measurable outcomes for species at risk recovery.

Relevant targets or ambitions:

GIF Target: UN SDG 15: Life on Land (Target 15.1, Target 15.5)

Indicator result: 40%

Notes: The recovery of species requires a long-term approach to investment. The decline in the percentage of species at risk showing population trends, consistent with recovery or management objectives, reflects the complex and long-term nature of species recovery which is often affected by multiple, compounding threats such as habitat fragmentation, climate change, invasive species, and pollution.

In many cases, recovery takes time to manifest in measurable population changes, especially for long-lived or slow-reproducing species. Additionally, gaps in monitoring data and challenges in implementing some recovery actions, particularly on non-federal lands or across jurisdictions, limit the ability to fully assess and support progress.

Efforts are underway to improve population monitoring, enhance collaboration with Indigenous peoples and other partners, and better align funding with high-priority recovery actions. These measures are expected to strengthen outcomes and support future improvements in this indicator.

Work with partners to implement the Pan-Canadian Approach to Transforming Species at Risk Conservation in Canada and the Framework for Aquatic Species at Risk Conservation

Implement the Pan-Canadian Approach to Transforming Species at Risk Conservation in Canada with the collaboration of provinces and territories, Indigenous Peoples, and stakeholders, enabled by investments under the Canada Nature Fund.

Program: Species at Risk

Performance indicator: Percentage of species at risk (SAR) expected to benefit from conservation actions being implemented through action for priority places, species, sectors, and threats

Starting point and fiscal year: 86% in 2020-21

Target: 100% by 2025-26

Note: This indicator is a good measure of the FSDS Target because ECCC’s work with partners to implement the Pan-Canadian Approach to Transforming Species at Risk Conservation in Canada is focused on implementing conservation actions to benefit species at risk and other biodiversity.

The Pan-Canadian Approach to Transforming Species at Risk Conservation in Canada reflects a shift to more multi-species and ecosystem-based conservation, more targeted collaborative FPT, and support for Indigenous leadership efforts focused on conservation planning and action on shared priority places, species, and sectors. Provinces and territories, Indigenous Peoples, stakeholders, and other partners continue to lead efforts to recover species at risk and other biodiversity with support and partnership from ECCC through:

• partner and stakeholder engagement, cooperative conservation implementation planning, and the implementation of on-the-ground actions for species at risk for 12 priority places.
• Funding for 17 community-nominated priority places^{Footnote 25} where multiple partners are acting together to protect and recover species at risk.
• Collaboration and support toward conservation action planning and associated implementation of on-the-ground initiatives for the six priority species identified by federal, provincial, and territorial governments.
• Co-creation of conservation action plans with the agriculture, forest, and urban development sectors and support of Indigenous leadership in conservation through the Indigenous Partnerships Initiative.

Relevant targets or ambitions:

GIF Target: UN SDG 15: Life on Land

(Target 15.1, Target 15.2, Target 15.4, Target 15.5, Target 15.9)

Indicator result: 100%

Work with partners to implement the pan-Canadian approach to wildlife health

Develop management and policy recommendations to implement a Pan-Canadian Approach to Wildlife Health.

Program: Migratory Birds and Other Wildlife

Performance indicator:^{Footnote 26}

Percentage of species at risk (SAR) expected to benefit from conservation actions being implemented through action for priority places, species, sectors, and threats

Starting point and fiscal year: 86% in 2020-21

Target: 100% by 2025-26

Note: This indicator is a good measure of the FSDS Target because ECCC’s work with partners to implement a Pan-Canadian Approach to Wildlife Health is representative of the Government of Canada’s progress with implementing the Approach.

Implementation of A Pan-Canadian Approach to Wildlife Health will help focus efforts and resources on shared priorities across jurisdictions and sectors and address emerging and changing threats from pathogens, contaminants, climate change globalization, landscape changes and other stressors based on government priorities and relative funding opportunities. Wildlife disease is also identified in the Pan-Canadian Approach to Transforming Species at Risk as one of the Priority Threats.

Relevant targets or ambitions:

GIF Target: UN SDG 15: Life on Land

(Target 15.1, Target 15.5)

Indicator result: 100%

Work with partners to enhance foundational knowledge of species, habitats and ecosystems

Advance protection and recovery action for species at risk and migratory birds by ensuring SAR information is available to partners and the public through publication of recovery documents and compliance materials on the public SAR Registry; and conducting research, monitoring and assessment, including co-application of western science and Indigenous knowledge.

Program: Species at Risk

Performance indicator: Percentage of legally listed species at risk (SAR) with a recovery strategy, or management plan available on the Species at Risk Public Registry where a recovery document is due

Starting point and fiscal year: 93% in 2018-19

Target: At least 90% by 2025-26

ECCC will contribute to achieving Canada’s population goals for species at risk and their habitats by collaborating with Canadian and international partners. Collaborative initiatives between partners increase the impact of conservation actions, influence the public, and interested local stakeholders to engage and participate in species and habitat protection. Collaboration with partners, in Canada and globally, allows for sharing of expertise and advice which may promote more effective species protection, through:

• Collaborating with stakeholders and Indigenous partners via Species at Risk Act-mandated and -enabled advisory bodies (including, the National Aboriginal Council on Species at Risk, the Nature Advisory Committee, and the Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada (COSEWIC)).
• Informing recovery planning and action for listed species at risk including federal priority species such as polar bear, caribou and listed migratory birds and conducting collaborative research and monitoring with stakeholders and partners; and,
• Ensuring SAR information is available to partners and the public through publication of Species at Risk Act documents on the public SAR Registry.

Relevant targets or ambitions:

GIF Target: UN SDG 15: Life on Land

(Target 15.1, Target 15.5)

Indicator result: 90%

Work in partnership with Indigenous Peoples to protect, conserve and recover species at risk and migratory birds.

Program: Species at Risk; Migratory Birds and Other Wildlife

Performance indicator: Percentage of Indigenous Peoples engaged with ECCC who indicate that the engagement was meaningful

Starting point and fiscal year: 61% in 2018-19

Target: At least 61% annually

Note: This indicator is an appropriate measure for the FSDS Target because ECCC’s work in partnership with Indigenous Peoples to protect, conserve, and recover species at risk reflects the perspective of Indigenous Peoples. ECCC recognizes that improved decision-making and conservation outcomes result from inclusive processes and meaningful engagement with the Department’s partners, including Indigenous Peoples.

ECCC will contribute to achieving Canada’s population goals for species at risk and their habitats through Indigenous engagement which is an important principle guiding collaborative work to support healthy wildlife populations under the Pan-Canadian Approach to Transforming Species at Risk Conservation. Modern treaties and reconciliation agreements with Indigenous Peoples represent an opportunity for Canada and rights-holders to collaborate more formally in protecting species and their habitat.

Canada works closely with Indigenous Peoples to help shape and test tools to implement the Species at Risk Act (SARA) and the Migratory Birds Convention Act (MBCA), and to identify new priorities for future action, by:

• collaborating with stakeholders and Indigenous partners via Species at Risk Act-mandated and -enabled advisory bodies (including, the National Aboriginal Council on Species at Risk).
• Working to renew nation-to-nation relationships with Indigenous Peoples through the Enhanced Nature Legacy to support implementation of the Pan-Canadian Approach to Transforming Species at Risk Conservation in Canada and the Species at Risk Act.
• Establishing mechanisms, including the National Boreal Caribou Knowledge Consortium and others, to support co-application of Indigenous knowledge and western science.
• Partnering with First Nations, Inuit, and Métis under the Canada Nature Fund, recognizing and enabling Indigenous leadership, knowledge, and interests in land and resource management.
• Engaging Indigenous Peoples for priority places and species, including in species assessment, recovery planning, recovery implementation (protection measures, stewardship, and other actions); and
• Negotiating modern treaties and reconciliation agreements, including implementing obligations, engaging Indigenous Peoples, and applying Indigenous knowledge.^{Footnote 27}

Relevant targets or ambitions:

GIF Target: UN SDG 15: Life on Land

(Target 15.1, Target 15.5)

Indicator result: 76%

Build capacity to protect, conserve, and restore species and their habitat.

Program: Species at Risk

Performance indicator: Amount of leveraged contributions (cash + in-kind)

Starting point and fiscal year: $25M in 2013-14

Target: Not applicable^{Footnote 28}

Note: The indicator measures the level of capacity that exists within the Canadian public, which is in line with the contributing action. The indicator measures the amount of non-federal funding leveraged by federal investment.

ECCC will contribute to Canadians’ capacity to protect and conserve species, by providing expertise and funding to Indigenous Peoples and local stakeholders and communities, through:

• Support for projects under the Habitat Stewardship Program for Species at Risk and the Community-Nominated Priority Places for Species at Risk that engage Canadians in conservation actions to benefit wildlife.
• Support projects under the Aboriginal Fund for Species at Risk and the Indigenous Partnerships Initiative that engage Indigenous recipients in conservation. Funding enables partnerships for the protection and recovery of species at risk with First Nations, Inuit, and Métis in a manner that recognizes and enables Indigenous leadership and engagement in land and resource management.
• Support projects under the Critical Habitat Interdepartmental Program that engage other federal partners in species at risk recovery and habitat conservation mainly on federal lands; Development of research capacity in Indigenous and Northern communities to support community-based monitoring and education;
• Investment of $2.25M over 3 years in programs for Engaging Canadian Kids in Wildlife Conservation.

Relevant targets or ambitions:

GIF Target: UN SDG 15: Life on Land

(Target 15.1, Target 15.5, Target 15.8)

Indicator result: $91,990,201

Notes: This measure shows how federal investments attract additional support from partners, including provinces, territories, Indigenous organizations, communities, and the private sector. By combining resources, Canada can achieve more ambitious results for sustainable development than government funding alone. Leveraged contributions demonstrate value for money, stronger partnerships, and a whole-of-society approach that benefits Canadians through greater environmental, social, and economic outcomes.

Non-Indigenous Recipients

ECCC - $61,585,717

Match - $79,265,309

Ratio - 1:1.28

Indigenous Recipients

ECCC - $29,254,318

Match - $12,365,477

Ratio - 1:0.42

CHIP

ECCC - $592,000

Match - $359,415

0.62:0.38

TOTAL ECCC:

$91,432,035

TOTAL LEVERAGED: $91,990,201

1:1

(June 2025)

Implement, innovate and modernize the regulatory and policy framework and tools to protect species at risk, other fish and fish habitat 

Implement legislation, regulations and tools that support a priority-based approach to protecting species at risk and migratory bird.

Program: Species at Risk

Performance indicator: Percentage of species at risk (SAR) for which changes in populations are consistent with recovery and management objectives

Starting point and fiscal year: 43% in 2016-17

Target: At least 60% by 2025-26

ECCC will contribute to achieving Canada’s population goals for species at risk and their habitats by helping maximize conservation outcomes and supporting healthy and viable populations for all species using a range of tools, such as:

• Protection of critical habitat of species on federally administered lands as identified in recovery strategies and action plans under the Species at Risk Act (SARA).
• Development of policies, standard operating procedures and/or guidance in accordance with SARA and policy guidance.
• Maintenance of partnerships with Indigenous Peoples to protect, conserve and recover species at risk and migratory birds;
• Work with farmers to support the recovery of species at risk on agricultural lands with the desired outcome to increase the conservation of critical habitat for multiple species at risk on non-federal lands through the Species at Risk Partnerships in Agricultural Lands program.
• Development of tools to assess commitments and implementation of actions contributing to the protection of species at risk and their habitats.
• Provision of expert advice related to species at risk as it relates to wetlands under the Federal Policy on Wetland Conservation.
• Implementation of the Pan-Canadian Approach to Transforming Species at Risk Conservation in Canada and a prioritized approach for action on species at risk, and seek ways to further advance innovative approach
• ECCC, through enhanced collation of intelligence collection, analysis of law enforcement datasets and vetting open-source information, will enrich operational activities and improve detection of non-compliance.

Relevant targets or ambitions:

GIF Target: UN SDG 15: Life on Land

(Target 15.1, Target 15.5)

Indicator result: 40%

Notes: The recovery of species requires a long-term approach to investment. The decline in the percentage of species at risk showing population trends, consistent with recovery or management objectives, reflects the complex and long-term nature of species recovery which is often affected by multiple, compounding threats such as habitat fragmentation, climate change, invasive species, and pollution.

In many cases, recovery takes time to manifest in measurable population changes, especially for long-lived or slow-reproducing species. Additionally, gaps in monitoring data and challenges in implementing some recovery actions, particularly on non-federal lands or across jurisdictions, limit the ability to fully assess and support progress.

Efforts are underway to improve population monitoring, enhance collaboration with Indigenous peoples and other partners, and better align funding with high-priority recovery actions. These measures are expected to strengthen outcomes and support future improvements in this indicator.

Performance indicator: Percentage of legally listed species at risk with a recovery strategy, or management plan available on the Species at Risk public registry where a recovery document is due

Starting point and fiscal year: 93% in 2018-19

Target: At least 90% by 2025-26

Indicator result: 90%

Implementation of an improved risk-based approach to compliance and enforcement of federal wildlife laws that protect species at risk, protected areas, migratory birds and wild plants and animals in international and interprovincial trade.

Program: Compliance Promotion and Enforcement – Wildlife

Performance indicator: Percentage of Environment and Climate Change Canada laws, regulations, and enforceable instruments that have completed risk classifications

Starting point and fiscal year:

20% in 2019-20

Target: 100% by 2025-26

Indicator result: 89%

Ensure key knowledge is available to support migratory bird conservation

Continue to monitor the status of and conduct research on migratory birds and their habitats.

Program: Migratory Birds and Other Wildlife

Performance indicator: Percentage of migratory bird species whose population status can be assessed with high reliability

Starting point and fiscal year: 30% in 2014-15

Target: At least 50% by 2024-25

Note: This indicator is a good measure of the contributing action and the FSDS Target because it is an indication of how well ECCC understands the status of migratory bird populations.

ECCC will contribute to achieving Canada’s goal in increasing the number of migratory bird species whose populations sizes fall within an acceptable range, by collaborating with Canadian and international partners to protect bird species and their habitats, by:

• Conducting research to understand the drivers of population change, including long-term and targeted research to assess impacts of climate change, habitat loss, and anthropogenic activities, and through collaboration with Indigenous communities to design and implement research projects (Ongoing).
• Monitoring and assessing the status and trends of bird populations, establishing measurable population goals and conservation priorities, and identifying conservation actions in consultation with stakeholders—in support of developing regulations and informing conservation.

Collaboration with partners, in Canada and globally, increases the audience of conservation actions, and influences the public and other interested stakeholders to engage and participate in species and habitat protection. It allows for sharing of expertise and advice, knowledge, and information, which may promote more effective species protection through improvements to foundational understanding of species and their habitats.

Relevant targets or ambitions:

GIF Target: UN SDG 15: Life on Land

(Target 15.1, Target 15.5)

Indicator result: 40%

Notes: Results are trending in the right direction (i.e. percentage is increasing), but accumulating sufficient data to inform long-term trends with high confidence takes time and resources. Progress is expected to be slow. Efforts to digitize and mobilize historical and current data will help improve the result, increasing the amount of data available for assessment. Increased collaborations with other organizations that monitor bird populations will also help improve the confidence of the status assessments. The indicator is based on monitoring data collated and analyzed via the 2024 State of Canada's Birds website.

Implement, innovate and modernize the regulatory and policy framework and tools to protect migratory birds 

Promote compliance with the Migratory Birds Convention Act, 1994 by providing key economic analysis in support of the Migratory Birds Convention Act (MBCA) and regulations; and collaborate with partners at home and internationally to conserve migratory birds and their habitats; and continue to monitor the status of and conduct research on migratory birds and their habitats.

Program: Migratory Birds and Other Wildlife

Performance indicator: Percentage of migratory bird species that are within target population ranges

Starting point and fiscal year: 57% in 2014-15

Target: At least 90% by 2030-31

Note: This measure will inform the programs whether the regulations and compliance promotion activities have had the intended impact so that migratory bird populations are conserved.

ECCC will support domestic population goals for migratory birds by enforcing Canadian and international legislation and regulations. ECCC undertakes economic analysis of legislation and regulation to inform decision-making in order to advance effective policy options and program implementation. Given that responsibility for managing wildlife and ecosystems in Canada is shared across all levels of government, collaborating with partners at home and internationally is essential to species conservation and recovery. ECCC uses a range of tools—both regulatory and non-regulatory—to support conservation outcomes and support healthy and viable populations for all species.

Relevant targets or ambitions:

GIF Target: UN SDG 15: Life on Land

(Target 15.1, Target 15.5)

Indicator result: 54%

Notes: The reduction in percentage highlights pressures on migratory birds in Canada and globally. ECCC continues to lead conservation efforts, working with domestic and international partners. It provides guidance on major development projects to avoid or reduce impacts on bird populations. Preventing declines is more cost-effective than recovering at-risk species. A key initiative is the modernization of the Migratory Bird Regulations (2022), which clarified protections, including nest protection based on conservation value. These updates aim to improve compliance and support long-term conservation. The indicator is based on monitoring data collated and analyzed via the State of Canada's Birds website. The launch of the redesigned, more powerful State of Canada’s Birds website will allow for more frequent reporting on the indicator and tracking of progress, as the website is scheduled to be updated regularly.

Prevent, detect, respond to, control and manage invasive alien species

Collaborate with provincial and territorial governments, Indigenous Peoples, local jurisdictions, non-governmental organizations, and international partners to increase awareness of invasive alien species, better understand their costs and impacts, and prevent, detect, respond to, control, and manage them.

Program: Biodiversity Policy and Partnerships

Performance indicator: Number of known newly established Invasive Alien Species in Canada

Starting point and fiscal year: 0 in 2011-12

Target: 9 or fewer by April 2025

Actions taken to address the threat of invasive alien species will help contribute to the FSDS implementation strategy supporting the Goal, as they aim to reduce the impacts of invasive alien species on ecosystems and native species, including species at risk.

These actions also support Canada’s contribution to the achieve of Target 6 under the Convention on Biological Diversity, which focuses on invasive alien species, one of the five direct drivers of global biodiversity loss.

Relevant targets or ambitions:

GIF Target: UN SDG 15: Life on Land

(Target 15.8), Convention on Biological Diversity (Target 15.6)

Indicator result: 6

Uphold international commitments related to wildlife

Work with international partners to protect and conserve species at risk and migratory birds, and to combat illegal wildlife trade in fulfilling Canada’s obligations under international agreements.

Program: Migratory Birds and other Wildlife; Biodiversity Policy and Partnerships; Species at Risk; Habitat Conservation and Protection; Compliance Promotion & Enforcement - Wildlife

Performance indicator: Percentage of expert groups formed to address international CITES conservation issues in which Canada participated.

Staring Point: 71% in 2018-19

Target: At least 80% annually

Note: This indicator provides information about the extent to which Canada’s positions and priorities are conveyed and reflected in key international biodiversity fora. Progress in promoting Canada’s positions and priorities demonstrated by ECCC within the international communities through these partnerships and the impacts they have on domestic and exotic species in Canadian commerce contributes to the FSDS target.

ECCC will support Canada in meeting its international wildlife commitments and makes important contributions to regional and global biodiversity conservation by collaborating with international partners and by supporting actions to conserve species through its international commitments, by:

• Fulfilling Canada’s obligations under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES);
• Implementing the Wild Animal and Plant Protection Regulation of International and Interprovincial Trade Act;
• Working with international partners to implement a Circumpolar Action Plan for Polar Bears in accordance with the 1973 Agreement on the Conservation of Polar Bears.
• Fulfilling Canada’s obligations under the United Nations Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD).
• Fulfilling Canada’s obligations under the Migratory Birds Convention
• Coordinating Canada’s participation with the U.S. and Mexico in the Trilateral Committee for Wildlife and Ecosystem Conservation and Management
• Implementing the Ramsar Convention in Canada to promote the wise use of wetlands and support partners in the nomination of sites proposed for recognition as a Wetland of International Importance.
• Implementing an improved risk-based approach to enforcing federal wildlife laws that protect species at risk, protected areas, migratory birds, and wild plants and animals in international and interprovincial trade.
• Working closely with foreign law enforcement agencies and intergovernmental organizations to protect domestic species and exotic species in Canadian commerce.
• Participating in the Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES); and
• Seeking to include provisions in Canada’s free trade agreements that support Canada’s leadership role in combatting illegal wildlife trade and protecting species at risk.
• Taking actions for migratory bird conservation (under the auspices of the Commission for Environmental Cooperation), and delivering projects for seabird conservation in Chile (under the Canada-Chile Agreement on Environmental Cooperation) and for shorebird monitoring in Panama (under the Canada-Panama Environment Agreement);
• Collaborating with international partners, including to implement the Migratory Birds Convention Act, and continuing to monitor the status of and conduct research on migratory birds, and manage and conserve migratory birds and their habitats
• Working closely with INTERPOL and other international partners on special operations (i.e., Thunder Series), the Wildlife Crime Working Group and the Pollution Crime Working Group to contribute to international enforcement efforts.

For example, funding to undertake North American Waterfowl Management Plan (NAWMP) projects under the Canada Nature Fund supported private land securement of wetland and associated upland habitat, over 120km2 (12,000 hectares) from 2019-20 – 2020-21, in biodiversity-rich landscapes in southern Canada. These projects contributed to the recovery of wetland-dependent species at risk and the prevention of migratory birds becoming a conservation concern. In addition, these habitats provide numerous ecosystem services, such as carbon storage. The funds also contributed to supporting partners to undertake actions that conserve wildlife and protect and improve their habitat.

The NAWMP is an international partnership between Canada, the United States and Mexico aiming to conserve and protect wetland, upland habitats, and associated waterfowl populations. Canada implements the plan through four regional Habitat Joint Ventures made up of a variety of cooperative public and private partners.

Relevant targets or ambitions:

GIF Target: UN SDG 15: Life on Land (Target 15.1, Target 15.5)

Indicator result: N/A

Notes: There is no result as this indicator is measured for the period between CITES Conferences of the Parties. Data will be available after the next COP in November 2025.

Performance indicator: Percentage of expert groups formed to address international Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) conservation issues in which Canada participated

Staring Point: 83% in 2018-19

Target: At least 90% annually

Note: This indicator provides information about the extent to which Canada’s positions and priorities are conveyed and reflected in key international biodiversity fora. Progress in promoting Canada’s positions and priorities demonstrated by ECCC within the international communities through these partnerships and the impacts they have on domestic and exotic species in Canadian commerce contributes to the FSDS target.

Indicator result: 47%

Notes: Growing domestic and international expectations have led to a proliferation of working groups and technical bodies under both CITES and CBD since the indicator was established in early 2019. Current resources do not allow for participation in all new groups. Moving forward, Canada will reassess the relevance of each group and may adjust its participation to focus on those of highest strategic importance.

Performance indicator: Total area (km2) of habitat secured by partners

Starting point and fiscal year: 6,382km2 in 2013-14

Target: At least 150,000km2 by 2024-25

Note: This is a summary indicator of all of the land securement efforts supported by a variety of ECCC programs. The results of this measure demonstrate the effectiveness of the ECCC support to build capacity for land securement efforts, which supports the contributing action and ultimately biodiversity conservation, as per the FSDS Target.

Indicator result: 185,982 km2

Performance indicator: Percentage of migratory bird species that are within target population ranges

Starting point and fiscal year: 57% in 2014-15

Target: At least 90% by 2030-31

Note: This measure will inform the programs whether the regulations and compliance promotion activities have had the intended impact so that migratory bird populations are conserved.

Indicator result: 54%

Notes: The reduction in percentage highlights pressures on migratory birds in Canada and globally. ECCC continues to lead conservation efforts, working with domestic and international partners. It provides guidance on major development projects to avoid or reduce impacts on bird populations. Preventing declines is more cost-effective than recovering at-risk species. A key initiative is the modernization of the Migratory Bird Regulations (2022), which clarified protections, including nest protection based on conservation value. These updates aim to improve compliance and support long-term conservation. The indicator is based on monitoring data collated and analyzed via the State of Canada's Birds website. The launch of the redesigned, more powerful State of Canada’s Birds website will allow for more frequent reporting on the indicator and tracking of progress, as the website is scheduled to be updated regularly.

The Habitat Conservation and Protection Program aims to secure, protect, connect, improve, and restore ecologically sensitive habitat, including wetlands, to contribute to the conservation and protection of migratory birds, species at risk and other wildlife, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Other useful information on habitat conservation and protection:

• Protected areas
• Wildlife, plants, and species
• Biodiversity

These ECCC programs contribute to advancing:

Canadian Indicator Framework (CIF) ambitions:

• 15.1/15.2 Canada ensures all species have healthy and viable populations
  • Target: No specific target
• 15.3 Canada conserves and restores ecosystems and habitat
  • Target: Conserve 25% of Canada's land by 2025, working towards 30% by 2030
• 15.4/15.5 Canada sustainably manages forests, lakes, and rivers
  • Target: No specific target

Global Indicator Framework (GIF) targets:

• 15.1 By 2020, ensure the conservation, restoration and sustainable use of terrestrial and inland freshwater ecosystems and their services, in particular forests, wetlands, mountains, and drylands, in line with obligations under international agreements
• 15.2 By 2020, promote the implementation of sustainable management of all types of forests, halt deforestation, restore degraded forests and substantially increase afforestation and reforestation globally
• 15.4 By 2030, ensure the conservation of mountain ecosystems, including their biodiversity, to enhance their capacity to provide benefits that are essential for sustainable development
• 15.5 Take urgent and significant action to reduce the degradation of natural habitats, halt the loss of biodiversity and, by 2020, protect and prevent the extinction of threatened species
• 15.6 Promote fair and equitable sharing of the benefits arising from the utilization of genetic resources and promote appropriate access to such resources, as internationally agreed
• 15.7 Take urgent action to end poaching and trafficking of protected species of flora and fauna and address both demand and supply of illegal wildlife products
• 15.8 By 2020, introduce measures to prevent the introduction and significantly reduce the impact of invasive alien species on land and water ecosystems and control or eradicate the priority species.
• 15.9 By 2020, integrate ecosystem and biodiversity values into national and local planning, development processes, poverty reduction strategies and accounts
• 15.a Mobilize and significantly increase financial resources from all sources to conserve and sustainably use biodiversity and ecosystems
• 15.c Enhance global support for efforts to combat poaching and trafficking of protected species, including by increasing the capacity of local communities to pursue sustainable livelihood opportunities.

Habitat Conservation and Protection Program: ECCC continues to lead the Government of Canada’s efforts of conserving 30% of lands and freshwaters by 2030. ECCC directly manages a network of over 151,000km2 of protected National Wildlife Areas and Migratory Bird Sanctuaries. Additionally, ECCC works with a wide variety of partners – including provinces and territories, Indigenous Peoples, the private sector, non-governmental organizations and landowners – to increase Canada’s coverage of protected and conserved areas. A number of funding programs are delivered to encourage partner-led conservation efforts, including the Indigenous-led Area-Based Conservation Program, the Natural Heritage Conservation Program, the Nature Smart Climate Solutions Fund, and Nature Agreements.

The Biodiversity Policy and Partnerships Program is focused on collaborative work with provincial, territorial, Indigenous, and other conservation partners to develop and meet Canada’s biodiversity commitments and obligations and to influence international policy related to biodiversity conservation and sustainable use. The Program leads on several federal-provincial-territorial committees that aim at coordinating policies to address specific priority threats (e.g., invasive alien species), and at better understanding the impacts of those threats. Program officials also participate in policy development to support modern treaty negotiations with Indigenous Peoples to ensure conservation needs and the reconciliation agenda are met. As part of this work, ECCC leads in the negotiation and implementation of the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) and other conventions, including on resource mobilization and biodiversity financing. This work aims to ensure adequate financing for biodiversity policy to achieve the goals and targets under the SDGs that relate to the conservation, restoration, and sustainable use of biodiversity.

Other useful information on biodiversity:

• Wildlife, plants, and species
• Biodiversity
• Migratory Birds
• Financial Reporting Framework: Reporting on progress towards 2020.

The Biodiversity Policy and Partnerships Program: ECCC continued to play a leadership role in advancing Canada’s 2030 Nature Strategy to implement the Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF)’s 23 targets to halt and reverse biodiversity loss by 2030 and put nature on a path to recovery by 2050. The Strategy, published in June 2024, provides a roadmap for Canada to implement the GBF. This in turn supports achieving UN Sustainable Development Goal 15 and other SDGs. Relevant GBF targets include Target 3 - Protected and Conserved Areas (Terrestrial), Target 4 -Species Recovery (Terrestrial), and Target 8 - Climate Change and Biodiversity, among others.

The Species at Risk Program aims to prevent wildlife species from being extirpated or becoming extinct, while providing for both the recovery of wildlife species and managing species of special concern to prevent them from becoming endangered or threatened. Independent actions on single species are complemented with strategic multi-species and ecosystems-based actions – focused on a set of shared priority places, species, and sectors with provinces and territories across Canada – through the implementation of the Pan-Canadian Approach to Transforming Species at Risk Conservation in Canada.

Other useful information on species at risk:

• Wildlife, plants, and species
• Species at risk.

The Species at Risk Program: In 2024-25, ECCC continued to deliver on its obligation and commitments under the Species at Risk Act (SARA), supporting Canada’s progress toward Sustainable Development Goals related to biodiversity and ecosystem health. Actions included supporting decisions on new species listings based on Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada assessments; conducting public consultations on proposed listings; and maintaining progress on recovery planning, with 93% of required recovery strategies, and management plans published or in development. ECCC published updated reports on the steps taken by provinces, territories, and the federal government to protect critical habitat for terrestrial species and published new policy and guidance on assessing imminent threats to species at risk.

Implementation of conservation measures continued under the eleven signed section 11 conservation agreements for Boreal Caribou and Southern Mountain Caribou. In 12 Priority Places and 17 Community-Nominated Priority Places across Canada, projects were carried out to advance implementation of on-the-ground recovery actions for species at risk. In addition, provincial, territorial, Indigenous, industry and other partners contributed to the development of Strategic Conservation Frameworks for Species at Risk with the Forest and Urban Development sectors through the Priority Sectors initiative. ECCC also advanced SARA policy and program improvements, including finalizing tools to enhance transparency and accountability in conservation agreements and species protection. Through the implementation of the Pan-Canadian Approach to Transforming Species at Risk Conservation in Canada, the Department continued to foster meaningful relationships and build capacity with Indigenous partners, advancing more inclusive and effective approaches.

In 2024–25, ECCC advanced key actions under the Species at Risk Program to support the recovery of species at risk and the protection of biodiversity in Canada. These actions contributed to the 2030 Agenda and Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 15 (Life on Land) and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals), through the publication of new recovery documents, strengthened reporting on critical habitat protection, improved guidance on imminent threats to species, and enhanced collaboration with provinces, territories, and Indigenous partners to advance conservation outcomes.

The Migratory Birds and Other Wildlife Program contributes to maintaining and restoring healthy populations of migratory birds and other wildlife by monitoring population status and trends, understanding drivers of population change, reducing threats to populations and by conserving, protecting, and enhancing priority habitats.

Other useful information on migratory birds and other wildlife:

• Wildlife, plants, and species
• Migratory birds
• Wildlife research and landscape science

The Migratory Birds and Other Wildlife Program: ECCC continues to deliver on its obligation and commitments under the Migratory Bird Convention Act. The introduction of the Migratory Birds Regulations in 2022 helped increase clarity to the regulations by updating outdated language, incorporating current legal standards, eliminating errors, inconsistencies and ambiguities, and restructuring the regulations by placing related information into distinct parts. It also recognized existing Aboriginal and treaty harvesting rights recognized and affirmed under section 35 of the Constitution Act, 1982. With the coming into force of the Migratory Birds Regulations, ECCC has continued the process of evaluating and monitoring its implementation and continues to engage with stakeholders. Several regulatory amendment initiatives to the Migratory Birds Regulations are currently under consideration. Some are part of the regular process, such as the biennial migratory birds hunting amendments, while others deal with issues that have long, or recently, been identified as priorities.

ECCC continues to build and maintain a robust and open knowledge foundation to support the conservation and management of Canada’s migratory birds, including those at risk, and their habitats.

ECCC also continues to work closely with Indigenous, provincial, territorial, municipal, and international partners, as well as businesses, non-governmental organizations, academics, experts, Canadians, and other stakeholders to apply knowledge foundation and conserve migratory birds and other biodiversity through targeted and multispecies conservation initiatives, effective regulatory action, and management of protected areas.

In 2024-25, ECCC, jointly with Birds Canada, launched the State of Canada’s Birds website 2024, that synthesizes the best available information on the status of all bird species regularly occurring in Canada.

The Compliance Promotion and Enforcement – Wildlife Program works to conserve and protect the natural environment through compliance promotion and apply a risk-based approach to enforce the Species at Risk Act, Migratory Birds Convention Act, 1994, Wild Animal and Plant Protection and Regulation of International and Interprovincial Trade Act, Antarctic Environmental Protection Act and Canada Wildlife Act.

Other useful information on wildlife compliance, promotion, and enforcement:

• Information about the Canada Wildlife Act
• Information about the Migratory Birds Convention Act, 1994
• Information about the Species at Risk Act
• Information about the Wild Animal and Plant Protection and Regulation of International and Interprovincial Trade Act
• Information about the Antarctic Environmental Protection Act
• Compliance and Enforcement Policy for Wildlife Legislation.

ECCC verified compliance with wildlife legislation and associated regulations that protect migratory birds, species at risk, wildlife in trade, as well as protected habitats, by conducting approximately 10,141 inspections under the Canada Wildlife Act, the Migratory Birds Convention Act, 1994, the Species at Risk Act and the Wild Animal and Plant Protection and Regulation of International and Interprovincial Trade Act.

ECCC inspections initiated 255 new investigations under wildlife legislation, and resulted in the issuance of 608 enforcement measures, including warnings, administrative monetary penalties (AMPs), and tickets. Prosecutions were also recommended to the Public Prosecution Service of Canada. Investigations led to 9 convictions and 11 new prosecutions. In 2024-25, a total of $2,765,550 in penalties resulted from prosecutions (including the total amount of $2.5 million related to the case where Husky Oil Operations Limited was ordered to pay $2 million after pleading guilty to one charge under the federal Fisheries Act and one charge under the Migratory Birds Convention Act, 1994). Additionally, monetary penalties resulting from AMPs totaled $199,950.

Conduct risk classifications for Environment and Climate Change Canada laws, regulations, and enforceable instruments

Continue the work to complete risk classifications for all Environment and Climate Change Canada laws, regulations, and enforceable instruments. Once completed, risk classifications help ensure that the highest risk forms of non‑compliance under the ECCC mandate are identified.

Program: Compliance Promotion and Enforcement – Pollution; Compliance Promotion and Enforcement – Wildlife

Performance indicator: Percentage of Environment and Climate Change Canada laws, regulations, and enforceable instruments that have completed risk classifications.

Starting point and fiscal year: 20% in 2019-20

Target: 100% by 2025-26

Use a data-driven, risk-based approach to enforcement planning and priority setting. This approach measures and prioritizes the worst forms of non-compliance in order to quickly and sustainably restore compliance. A stringent performance measurement process is applied, and the results inform next year’s process. Once completed, risk classifications help ensure that the highest risk forms of non-compliance are identified for ECCC’s mandate.

Relevant targets or ambitions:

GIF Target: UN SDG 16: Promote peaceful and inclusive societies for sustainable development, provide access to justice for all and build effective, accountable, and inclusive institutions at all levels (Target 16.b)

Indicator result: 89%

Other

Degraded environments are restored or enhanced because of community-based actions. Restore and/or enhance the natural environment through Environmental Damages Fund projects.

Program: Community and Sustainability

Performance indicator: Area (hectares) where natural environments are restored and/or enhanced.

Starting point and fiscal year: 568ha^{Footnote 30} in 2017-18

Target: At least 20,641ha by 2025-26

Note: The primary goal of the Environmental Damages Fund is to restore natural environments that have been negatively affected by an environmental incident. The Fund prioritizes restoration and environmental quality improvement projects in order to achieve positive and measurable benefits to the natural environment and Canadians.

Measurement (in hectares) of the total area of natural environments of comparable geographic location, quality, or value to those affected that has been restored, as well as the area in which the environmental quality of natural environments of different geographic location, quality, or value to those affected has been improved or enhanced.

Result is calculated annually using project results from previous fiscal year to ensure indicator data is collected from closed projects only.

Relevant targets or ambitions:

GIF Target: UN SDG 16: Promote peaceful and inclusive societies for sustainable development, provide access to justice for all and build effective, accountable, and inclusive institutions at all levels (Target 16.b)

Indicator result: 2427ha

Notes: From year to year, funds directed to the Environmental Damages Fund by the courts, and available for projects, vary.  While the target for 2025-26 has not been met, the expected performance for 2024-25 (780 hectares as noted in ECCC’s DP 2024-25) has been exceeded. ECCC will work with recipients to ensure that workplan activities and project indicator targets are realistic and achievable, and will monitor results closely in order to meet next fiscal year’s target. 

Continue to implement Canada’s climate plans and actions.

Program: Clean Growth and Climate Change Mitigation

Performance indicator: Percentage of projects designated under the Impact Assessment Act that apply the Strategic Assessment of Climate Change

Starting point and fiscal year: 0% in 2019-20

Target: 100% annually

The strategic assessment of climate change will enable consistent, predictable, efficient, and transparent consideration of climate change throughout the impact assessment process. It describes the climate change-related information requirements throughout the federal impact assessment process for projects within federal jurisdiction. It also explains how the Impact Assessment Agency of Canada (IAAC) or lifecycle regulators, with support from expert federal authorities, will review, comment on, and complement this information. The IAA establishes a process for considering environmental, health, social and economic effects of projects that will undergo a federal impact assessment.

Relevant targets or ambitions:

GIF Target: UN SDG 16: Promote peaceful and inclusive societies for sustainable development, provide access to justice for all and build effective, accountable, and inclusive institutions at all levels (Target 16.b)

Indicator result: 100%

Apply “Best-in-Class” requirements in federal impact assessment of oil and gas projects

Publish “guidance for best-in-class GHG emissions performance by oil and gas projects” which outlines the information proponents of oil and gas projects undergoing a federal impact assessment should provide to demonstrate best-in-class greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions performance.

Program: Clean Growth and Climate Change Mitigation

Performance indicator: Final guidance for best-in-class GHG emissions performance by oil and gas projects is published in 2023-24.

Starting point and fiscal year: The draft guidance is finalized in 2023-24.

Target: The final guidance is published in 2025-26

The best-in-class guidance is a refinement of the Strategic Assessment of Climate Change, tailoring the information requirements to oil and gas projects in the context of federal impact assessments. In meeting the FSDS goal, strategic assessments examine the Government of Canada’s existing or proposed policies, plans, or programs relevant to impact assessment. Strategic assessments can help inform the planning and management of cumulative effects (cases where the combined effects of multiple projects exceed the effects of each project considered on their own).

Relevant targets or ambitions:

GIF Target: UN SDG 16: Promote peaceful and inclusive societies for sustainable development, provide access to justice for all and build effective, accountable, and inclusive institutions at all levels (Target 16.b)

Indicator result: Not published.

Notes: Final publication of the Best-in-Class guidance was delayed past the original target date of 2023-24 as a result of amendments made to the Impact Assessment Act.

Continue to implement regulations to phase down hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) consumption in line with the Kigali Amendment to the Montreal Protocol and to prohibit the import and export of certain products that contain or are designed to contain HFCs. Continue to implement Canada’s Strategy on Short-lived Climate Pollutants (SLCPs), by publishing a progress report on commitments under the SLCP Strategy; and continuing to advance domestic and international work to reduce SLCPs.

Program: Clean Growth and Climate Change Mitigation

Performance indicator: Percentage reduction of hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) emissions

Starting point and fiscal year: 18,008,795tCO2e, calculated from the average HFC consumption over the years 2011-2013.

Target: At least 40% reduction in consumption by 2024 calendar year

The regulations amending the Heavy-duty Vehicle and Engine Greenhouse Gas Emission Regulations are estimated to lead to annual CO2e emission reductions of about 6Mt from all heavy-duty vehicles in 2030. Another key regulations and instruments will reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from the oil and gas, transportation, electricity, and other industrial sectors that contribute significantly to total GHG emissions in Canada, the Ozone-depleting Substances and Halocarbon Alternatives Regulations will prevent the release of HFCs, which are powerful short-lived climate pollutants that contribute to climate change. These controls are expected to prevent the release of 10 MtCO2e between 2021 and 2025 and 24MtCO2e between 2026 and 2030. The HFC phase-down is in effect as of January 1, 2019. Coal-fired electricity generating units are the highest emitting stationary sources of GHGs and air pollutants in Canada. Amendments to the Reduction of Carbon Dioxide Emissions from Coal-fired Generation of Electricity Regulations, published in December 2018, are expected to reduce GHG emissions by 12.8MtCO2e in 2030.

Putting a price on carbon pollution is an efficient means to drive innovation and energy efficiency in order to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions across the economy. Provinces and territories have the flexibility to implement their own carbon pricing systems, aligned with national stringency criteria (federal ‘benchmark’). The federal backstop carbon pollution pricing system (including a charge on fossil fuels and regulated trading system for heavy industry) applies in jurisdictions that request it or that have not implemented a system that meets the benchmark.

Where the federal system applies, the Government of Canada returns all direct proceeds to the jurisdiction of origin. In provinces where proceeds are returned directly, the majority are returned to households through Canada Carbon Rebate payments; most households receive more in payments than they face in costs from pricing pollution. Proceeds from the federal Output-Based Pricing System (OBPS) for industrial emitters are returned to the jurisdiction to support industrial decarbonization and grid-greening projects through two program streams: the Decarbonization Incentive Program and the Future Electricity Fund. Canada’s GHG Offset Credit System encourages cost-effective, voluntary emissions reductions and removals in Canada from activities not covered by carbon pricing, expanding the incentives to reduce carbon pollution across the economy. Federal offset credits can be used by industrial facilities as a form of payment under Canada’s industrial pricing system, the Output-Based Pricing System.

Relevant targets or ambitions:

GIF Target: UN SDG 7: Affordable and clean energy (Target 7.2)

UN SDG 8: Decent work and economic growth (Target 8.4)

UN SDG 13: Climate Action (Target 13.2)

Indicator result: 53.5%

Continue to take action on carbon pollution, including by implementing pan-Canadian pricing of carbon pollution, working with provinces and territories.

Program: Clean Growth and Climate Change Mitigation

Performance indicator: Number of provinces and territories with carbon pollution pricing systems

Starting point and fiscal year: 4 of 13 provinces and territories in 2016-17

Target: 13 of 13 provinces and territories annually

Note: All provinces and territories continue to have carbon pollution pricing systems in place that meets the federal benchmark stringency requirements, or the federal backstop system applies.

Indicator result: 13

Take action on coal-fired electricity emissions from electricity generation by implementing amended coal-fired electricity regulations to accelerate the phase-out of traditional coal-fired electricity generation by 2030.

Program: Clean Growth and Climate Change Mitigation

Performance indicator: Percentage of coal-fired electricity generation units meeting their regulated greenhouse gas emissions intensity performance requirement.

Starting point and fiscal year: 100% in 2019-20

Target: 100% annually

Indicator result: 100%

Take action on emissions from the oil and gas sector by continuing to implement regulations reducing the release of methane and certain Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC) from the upstream oil and gas sector that aim to reduce methane emissions; and implementing regulations to reduce methane emissions from the oil and gas sector by 40–45% by 2025 and 75% by 2030

Program: Clean Growth and Climate Change Mitigation

Performance indicator: Percentage reduction of methane emissions from the oil and gas sector

Starting point and fiscal year: Annually recalculated 2012 oil and gas sector methane emissions levels^{Footnote 31}

Target: At least 40% by 2025 calendar year then at least 75% by 2030 calendar year

Note: Methane is a short-lived climate pollutant that contributes to climate change and air pollution. In 2018, the Regulations Respecting Reduction in the Release of Methane and Certain Volatile Organic Compounds (Upstream Oil and Gas Sector), were published to reduce methane emissions from the oil and gas sector by 40% to 45% below 2012 levels by 2025.

The 2024 National Inventory Report estimates a 31.9% reduction (26.9Mt) of oil and gas sector methane emissions below a 2012 baseline, which includes data up to the calendar year 2022. Further reductions are expected by 2025 as additional elements of the regulations take effect starting in 2023.

In 2023, ECCC published draft amendments to the 2018 regulations towards achieving a strengthened target of at least 75% below 2012 levels by 2030.

Indicator result: 39.9%

Notes: 51.0 Mt CO2e reduction

Implement monitoring, inspection and enforcement activities

Promote compliance through targeted enforcement actions.

Program: Compliance Promotion and Enforcement – Pollution; Compliance Promotion and Enforcement – Wildlife

Performance indicator: Percentage of non-compliance addressed by enforcement action.

Starting point and fiscal year: 70% in 2018-19

Target: At least 70% by 2024-25

ECCC will carry out inspections to verify compliance and conduct investigations when a possible violation of the relevant Acts or Regulations is identified. When an alleged violation is discovered during an inspection or investigation, the appropriate enforcement action – such as a fine, order, or referral for prosecution – is applied. When choosing the appropriate enforcement action, enforcement officers will consider the nature of the alleged violation, effectiveness in achieving desired results, and in maintaining consistency in enforcement.

Relevant targets or ambitions:

GIF Target: UN SDG 16: Promote peaceful and inclusive societies for sustainable development, provide access to justice for all and build effective, accountable, and inclusive institutions at all levels (Target 16.b)

Indicator result: 74%

Use a risk-based approach to environmental enforcement

Work to complete risk classifications for all Environment and Climate Change Canada laws, regulations, and enforceable instruments. Once completed, risk classifications help ensure that the highest risk forms of non‑compliance under the ECCC mandate are identified.

Program: Compliance Promotion and Enforcement – Pollution

Performance indicator: Percentage of Environment and Climate Change Canada laws, regulations, and enforceable instruments that have completed risk classifications.

Starting point and fiscal year: 20% in 2019-20

Target: 100% by 2025-26

Use a data-driven, risk-based approach to enforcement planning and priority setting. This approach measures and prioritizes the worst forms of non-compliance in order to quickly and sustainably restore compliance. A stringent performance measurement process is applied, and the results inform next year’s process. Once completed, risk classifications help ensure that the highest risk forms of non-compliance are identified for the departmental mandate.

Relevant targets or ambitions:

GIF Target: UN SDG 16: Promote peaceful and inclusive societies for sustainable development, provide access to justice for all and build effective, accountable, and inclusive institutions at all levels (Target 16.b)

Indicator result: 89%

Increase support to and help build capacity in developing countries to adapt to and mitigate climate change

Report on the 2015 $2.65B climate finance commitments delivered between 2016 and 2021 to help developing countries transition to a low-carbon, climate-resilient economy and deliver on the $5.3B climate finance commitment between 2021-22 and 2025-26 to help developing countries transition to a low-carbon, climate-resilience economy.

Program: International Environment and Climate Action

Performance indicator: Cumulative greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions reductions in Mt resulting from international initiatives funded by Canada ($2.65B)

Starting point and fiscal year: 0Mt in 2016-17

Target: At least 200Mt by 2050 calendar year

Note: A reduction of GHG emissions in developing countries allows for measurement of progress towards mitigation of climate change from Canada’s support to help developing countries transition to a low-carbon economy.

ECCC will strengthen Canada’s capacity to contribute to a worldwide reduction of greenhouse gases (GHGs) to meet global targets, by taking a leadership role and contributing expertise to key international climate and economic fora and work towards the international goals under the PCF, such as the implementation of the Paris Agreement and the delivery of Canada’s climate finance commitment to support developing countries in tackling climate change, by:

• continuing collaboration with Global Affairs Canada, including through multilateral financial mechanisms: Green Climate Fund and Global Environment Facility.
• delivering $2M for methane mitigation projects in developing countries in the biogas and oil and gas sectors, with advice from the Global Methane Initiative.
• ensuring that finance for adaptation would increase to 40%, that at least 20% would support nature-based solutions with biodiversity co-benefits and that 80% of projects would target gender equity outcomes; and
• increasing support for the transition to clean energy and phasing-out of coal, with special consideration for the poorest and most vulnerable developing countries. Ongoing projects include: $25M to the World Bank’s Energy Sector Management Assistance Program; $8M to International Energy Agency Clean Energy Transitions Programme; $5M for the Southeast Asia Energy Transition Program; $5M for the OECD’s Clean Energy Finance and Investment Mobilization programme.

Relevant targets or ambitions:

GIF Target: SDG 13: Climate Action (Targets 13.A)

Indicator result: 228Mt

Notes: 2024-25: An estimated cumulative reduction of 228Mt of GHGs is expected from Canada $2.65B climate finance commitment to date.

Performance indicator: Cumulative percentage of Canada’s $5.3B climate finance commitment going toward climate adaptation projects

Starting Point and fiscal year: 0% in 2021-2022

Target: 40% by the end of 2025-26

Note: This indicator tracks the proportion of funding from Canada’s $5.3B climate finance commitment going towards climate adaptation projects.

Indicator result: 20.70%

Notes: The percentage of Canada’s $5.3 billion climate finance commitment disbursed for projects supporting climate change adaptation rose to 20.7% in 2023-2024 from 4.3% in 2021-2022.

Performance indicator: Cumulative percentage of Canada’s $5.3B climate finance commitment going toward projects that leverage nature-based climate solutions and projects that contribute biodiversity co-benefits

Starting Point and fiscal year: 0% in 2021-2022

Target: 20% by the end of 2025-26

Note: This indicator tracks the proportion of funding from Canada’s $5.3B climate finance commitment going toward projects that leverage nature-based climate solutions and projects that contribute biodiversity co-benefits.

Indicator result: 15.20%

Notes: The percentage of Canada’s $5.3 billion climate finance commitment disbursed for projects that leverage nature-based climate solutions and contribute biodiversity co-benefits rose to 15.2% from 6.1% in 2021-2022.

Performance indicator: Cumulative greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions reductions in Mt resulting from international initiatives funded by Canada ($5.3B)

Starting point and fiscal year: Expected 228Mt as of 2021-22

Target: At least 300Mt by 2050 calendar year

Note: A reduction of GHG emissions in developing countries allows for measurement of progress towards mitigation of climate change from Canada’s support to help developing countries transition to a low-carbon economy.

Indicator result: 286.4Mt

Notes: 2024-25: An estimated cumulative reduction of 286.4Mt of GHGs is expected from Canada $5.3B climate finance commitment to date.

As of FY2026-27, ECCC will be reporting on the entire climate finance envelop cumulatively, rather than as separate commitments.

Performance indicator: Total cumulative value ($CND) of Canada’s contributions disbursed.

Starting point and fiscal year: $857M in 2021-22

Target: At least $5.3B by 2025-26

Note: These measures assess, in part, Canada’s leadership, through international agreements, to support mitigation and adaptation action internationally that will lead to measurable greenhouse gas (GHG) emission reductions, thus contributing to reducing GHGs globally, and increase climate resilience globally.

Indicator result: $2.956B

Notes: $2.956B as of 2024-2025

Performance indicator: Cumulative number of people in developing countries who benefitted from Canada’s adaptation funding ($2.65B)

Starting point and fiscal year: 0 in 2016-17

Target: At least 10M by 2030 calendar year

Note: Measuring the cumulative number of people in developing countries who benefited from Canada’s adaptation funding provides information related to the extent to which Canada supports adaptation action in developing countries via international leadership, ultimately contributing to the transition to a climate-resilient development pathway.

Indicator result: 6.6M

Notes: 2024-25: A cumulative estimate 6.6M people with increased resilience are expected from Canada $2.65B climate finance commitment to date.

Performance indicator: Cumulative number of people in developing countries who benefitted from Canada’s adaptation funding ($5.3B)

Starting point and fiscal year: 6.6M as of 2021-22

Target: At least 10M by 2050 calendar year

Note: Measuring the cumulative number of people in developing countries who benefited from Canada’s adaptation funding provides information related to the extent to which Canada supports adaptation action in developing countries via international leadership, ultimately contributing to the transition to a climate-resilient development pathway.

Indicator result: 7.7M

Notes: 2024-25: An estimated 7.7M people are expected to develop increased resilience from Canada $5.3B climate finance commitment to date.

As of FY2026-27, ECCC will be reporting on the entire climate finance envelop cumulatively, rather than as separate commitments.

Performance indicator: Cumulative amount of private finance mobilized through Canada’s public sector investments ($2.65B)

Starting point and fiscal year: $0 in 2016-17

Target: Greater cumulative amount of private climate finance mobilized annually, for a total ratio of at least $0.5 mobilized in private climate finance per $1 of Canada’s public sector investments

Indicator result: Ratio of $0.93

Notes: Between 2017 and 2023, Canada mobilized CAD $478.43M in private climate finance, from public funding of CAD $511.14M from Canada $2.65B climate finance commitment (equivalent to a ratio of 0.93).

Performance indicator: Cumulative amount of private finance mobilized through Canada’s public sector investments ($5.3B)

Starting point and fiscal year: $0.75 private finance mobilized per $1 spent by Canada on projects involving the private sector as of 2021-22

Target: Greater cumulative amount of private climate finance mobilized annually, for a total ratio of at least $0.75 mobilized in private finance per $1 of Canada’s public sector investments by 2050 calendar year

Indicator result: Ratio of $0.46

Notes: 2024-25: From calendar years 2022 and 2023, Canada mobilized CAD $15.79M in private climate finance, from public funding of CAD $34.58M from Canada $5.3B climate finance commitment (equivalent to a ratio of 0.46).

As of FY 2026-27, ECCC will be reporting on the entire climate finance envelop cumulatively, rather than as separate commitments.

Support a clean energy transition

Support developing countries’ clean energy transition and coal phase-out. Leverage Canada’s climate finance to complement its co-leadership with the United Kingdom of the Powering Past Coal Alliance, a coalition of over 165 members leading global efforts to end emissions from unabated coal power.

Program: International Environment and Climate Action

Performance indicator: Engagement and advocacy activities to advance energy transition and coal phase-out outcomes

Starting point and fiscal year: Indicator established in 2018-19, updated in 2024-25.

Target: Listing type/category of stakeholders met annually/bilateral and multilateral engagement opportunities leveraged to advocate for coal phase-out.

ECCC will continue to advance Canada’s leadership role in the Powering Past Coal Alliance, which calls on governments and organizations to phase out unabated coal power in a timeframe compatible with the temperature goal of the Paris Agreement (i.e., phase-out by 2030 for OECD and EU, and by 2040 in the rest of the world). Transitioning to a low-carbon economy will require cleaner sources of energy, and coal phase-out is a key part of Canada’s plan to reduce its greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.

Relevant targets or ambitions:

GIF Target: SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy (Target 7.2, Target 7.A)

SDG 13: Climate Action (Target 13.2)

Indicator result: Government, International Organizations, Private Sector, Think Tanks Stakeholders

Promote environmental protection in trade agreements and other engagement mechanisms

Advance priorities and climate change-related commitments through bilateral engagement with influential economies including the U.S., China, and the European Union.

Program: International Environment and Climate Action

Performance indicator: Extent to which Canada's environment and climate change commitments under (bilateral and regional) instruments are met through engagement with influential economies such as the U.S., China, and the European Union

Starting point and fiscal year: Qualitative indicator: Overall high rating in 2022-23

Target: High rating annually

Note: A high aggregate rating is determined by partners allocating sufficient resources to meet obligations under bilateral and regional instruments.

Canada commits to meeting environment and climate change objectives through the implementation of FTAs, ECAs, and other bilateral and regional cooperation instruments. As such, calculating the extent of commitments met under bilateral and regional instruments will reflect how successful we were at meeting these objectives. Canada maintains engagement with the United States through ongoing implementation of the Canada-United States Mexico Agreement (CUSMA) and the Environmental Cooperation Agreement. Canada also advances its environmental priorities with China through the China Council for International Cooperation on Environment and Development (CCICED), an international advisory body that provides research-based recommendations on policy related to the environment and development to the Government of China. Under the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) and the Green Alliance between Canada and the EU, targets are supported by joint commitments, mechanisms for cooperation on trade and environmental issues, and public engagement.

Relevant targets or ambitions:

GIF Target: SDG 13: Climate Action (Targets 13. A)

Indicator result: High

Performance indicator: Extent to which expertise is shared through engagement with partner countries and economies

Starting point and fiscal year: Qualitative indicator: Overall high rating

Target: High rating annually

Note: A high aggregate rating is determined by partners allocating sufficient resources to meet obligations under bilateral and regional instruments.

Indicator result: High

Include provisions in Canada’s free trade agreements (FTAs) that support Canada’s leadership role on climate change.

Program: International Environment and Climate Action

Performance indicator: Extent to which new and renegotiated Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) include comprehensive environment provisions, including climate change provisions.

Starting point and fiscal year: Qualitative indicator: 5 FTAs in 2022-2023

Target: Comprehensive environment provisions, including climate change provisions, are included in new and renegotiated FTAs, annually

Note: This is a good measure of Canada’s leadership in international agreements and initiatives on climate change because the integration of robust environment and climate change provisions in FTAs and other cooperation instruments is a demonstration of Canada’s progress in leading these initiatives towards positive climate outcomes.

Indicator result: Provisions negotiated into 2 agreements: Canada-Indonesia and Canada-Ecuador FTAs

Contribute to current knowledge and data that support improved global and domestic air quality, reduction of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, and adaptation planning.

Program: Climate Change Adaptation

Performance indicator: Annual number of downloads of climate datasets (based on a 3-year rolling average)

Starting point and fiscal year: 83,139 in 2014-15 through 2016-17

Target: At least 220,000 annually

Conduct targeted scientific and engineering studies to quantify greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and associated costs by technology, equipment type, fuel, and operating conditions, including by:

maintaining comprehensive GHG emission and air pollutant inventories that are up-to-date, informative, and relevant to all Canadian jurisdictions; and conducting climate research and analysis to develop climate data and scenarios, which will inform mitigation actions and effective adaptation planning and support active participation in the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC).

By conducting scientific research and maintaining inventories, ECCC will contribute to current knowledge and data that support improved global and domestic air quality, reduction of GHG emissions, and adaptation planning.

Relevant targets or ambitions:

GIF Target: UN SDG 13: Climate Action (Targets 13.1 and 13.3)

Indicator result: 7,339,356

Notes: Target well surpassed (registered over 7,339,356 downloads).

Large increase in number of data downloads in FY24-25 due to multiple public facing servers available by division for users to download datasets, the cyclical nature of the IPCC assessment cycle, and the release of model Canadian Earth System Model (CANESM) results.

Canada and the EU established a Green Alliance in November 2023 to reaffirm and reinforce climate and environment cooperation. Under the Canada-EU Strategic Partnership Agreement, Canada and the EU hold regular High-Level Dialogues on Climate Change and Environment which foster better understanding of our respective climate plans and policies and deepen cooperation on specific strategic or technical issues. Canada also has other engagement partnerships and workplans with some European countries, such as with France (Partnership on Climate and the Environment), Germany (High Level Steering Group Workplan), Italy (Canada-Italy Roadmap for Enhanced Cooperation Workplan) and with Ukraine (Memorandum of Understanding on Environmental Protection). The China Council for International Cooperation on Environment and Development (CCICED) is one of the main channels through which Canada engages with China on climate and environment in support of the CCICED research program. In 2021, Canada and the U.S. have formed a high-level dialogue on climate ambition to jointly address climate change and demonstrate global leadership on the climate crisis on three work streams: ambition, policy and regulatory alignment, and climate adaptation, resilience, and security. In 2023, both countries have committed to renew and accelerate their joint efforts on climate. Canada also has a memorandum of cooperation with California, which has laid the foundation for enhanced collaboration on climate action and biodiversity. Canada maintains engagement with the United States through ongoing implementation of the Canada-United States Mexico Agreement (CUSMA) and the Environmental Cooperation Agreement, which stipulates the three countries’ continued participation under the Commission for Environmental Cooperation (CEC). Canada maintains engagement with North American, Latin American and Caribbean countries through bilateral and regional cooperation activities to advance the implementation of environment commitments under Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) and environmental agreements.

These ECCC programs contribute to advancing:

Canadian Indicator Framework (CIF) ambitions:

• 17.2 Ambition - Canada fosters collaboration and partnerships to advance the SDGs
  • Target - No specific target

Global Indicator Framework (GIF) targets:

• 2.4 By 2030, ensure sustainable food production systems and implement resilient agricultural practices that increase productivity and production, that help maintain ecosystems, that strengthen capacity for adaptation to climate change, extreme weather, drought, flooding and other disasters and that progressively improve land and soil quality.
• 5.5 Ensure women’s full and effective participation and equal opportunities for leadership at all levels of decision-making in political, economic and public life.
• 6.3 By 2030, improve water quality by reducing pollution, eliminating dumping and minimizing release of hazardous chemicals and materials, halving the proportion of untreated wastewater and substantially increasing recycling and safe reuse globally.
• 7.2 By 2030, increase substantially the share of renewable energy in the global energy mix
• 9.4 By 2030, upgrade infrastructure and retrofit industries to make them sustainable, with increased resource-use efficiency and greater adoption of clean and environmentally sound technologies and industrial processes, with all countries taking action in accordance with their respective capabilities.
• 11.6 By 2030, reduce the adverse per capita environmental impact of cities, including by paying special attention to air quality and municipal and other waste management.
• 12.2 By 2030, achieve the sustainable management and efficient use of natural resources
• 12.5 By 2030, substantially reduce waste generation through prevention, reduction, recycling and reuse
• 13.1 Strengthen resilience and adaptive capacity to climate-related hazards and natural disasters in all countries
• 13.2 Integrate climate change measures into national policies, strategies and planning
• 14.1 By 2025, prevent and significantly reduce marine pollution of all kinds, in particular from land-based activities, including marine debris and nutrient pollution
• 14.2 By 2020, sustainably manage and protect marine and coastal ecosystems to avoid significant adverse impacts, including by strengthening their resilience, and take action for their restoration in order to achieve healthy and productive oceans
• 15.5 Take urgent and significant action to reduce the degradation of natural habitats, halt the loss of biodiversity and, by 2020, protect and prevent the extinction of threatened species.

Canada and the EU have worked together to identify priorities, track recent and ongoing work, and explore possible future activities to advance implementation of the Green Alliance and indicator 17.2. With over 80 joint activities either ongoing or having already taken place across multiple departments, the Green Alliance has contributed to a number of GIF targets. For example, multiple technical exchanges between Canada and the EU were organized that contributed to targets 13.2 and 9.4 (carbon pricing, GHG offset credit system, NDC modelling, carbon removals procurement).

Under the Canada-France Partnership for Climate and Environment 2024-27, Canada and France worked to advance gender equality issues in the context of climate negotiation with the goal to identify best practices and challenges and gaps. This event contributed to advancing discussion on Goal 5 of the SDGs

As part of the Canada-Germany High-Level Steering Group workplan, an ongoing series of exchanges between the countries’ respective experts on climate change adaptation is taking place, with two meetings having been organized since the beginning of the year and a third proposed for the fall. These discussions support target 13.1.

To implement the Canada-Italy Roadmap for Enhanced Cooperation, ECCC contributed to the development of an action plan with commitments to pursue multilateral and bilateral cooperation on a range of issues such as plastic pollution, water, biodiversity loss, climate finance, and energy transition.

During the China Council for International Cooperation on Environment and Development (CCICED)’s 2024 cycle, ECCC facilitated a Scoping Study on Carbon Pricing. Participating in this study contributed to the Global Indicator Framework (GIF) targets 7.2, 9.4 and 13.2 on climate change. In addition, CCICED’s general policy recommendations also included recommendations on carbon pricing. Recommendations included a proposal to set clear renewable energy development targets and a call to establish “targets for reducing carbon dioxide and non-carbon dioxide emissions like methane, as well as goals for non-hydropower renewable energy installed capacity, energy storage, and market penetration of new energy vehicles”. These recommendations also contributed to the Global Indicator Framework (GIF) targets 7.2, 9.4 and 13.2 on climate change. Multiple recommendations on biodiversity integration were aimed at expanding available financing mechanisms for biodiversity conservation and aligning climate and nature financing mechanisms and included considerations of oceans management, the blue economy, just transition planning in traditional energy corridors, and nature’s role in adaptation strategies in urban and rural settings. These recommendations advance GIF targets 14.2 and 15.5. Finally, CCICED incorporates gender analysis into all of its research, ensuring that GIF target 5.5 is considered in all aspects of its work. 

Work continued under the Renewed Canada-United States commitment on climate and nature ambition, a joint statement in which both countries commit to renew and accelerate efforts to combat the climate crisis and to increase economic benefits from collaboration, released at COP28 in December 2023. In addition, work continued under the Climate action and nature protection: Memorandum of cooperation between Canada and California, resulting in technical and policy exchanges on methane in the oil and gas sector, landfill methane, clean transportation (rail), and the circular economy. These actions contributed to the 2030 Agenda and the SDGs in 2024-25 by increasing joint climate action including by committing to implementing clean electricity commitments, reducing methane emissions, conserving, restoring and sustainably managing forests, and protecting nature and oceans.