Health Canada’s 2021-22 Departmental Sustainable Development Strategy Report

Health Canada’s 2021-22 Departmental Sustainable Development Strategy Report cover

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Organization: Health Canada

Type: Publication

Published: October, 2022

October, 2022

Table of contents

  1. Introduction to the Departmental Sustainable Development Strategy
  2. Sustainable Development in Health Canada
  3. Departmental Performance by FSDS Goal
  4. Report on Integrating Sustainable Development

Health Canada's 2021-22 Departmental Sustainable Development Strategy Report

This report on progress contributes to an integrated, whole-of-government view of activities supporting environmental sustainability and helps to make environmental decision-making more transparent and accountable to Parliament.

The departmental information reported accounts for information previously prepared in accordance with Health Canada's 2021 to 2022 Departmental Sustainable Development Strategy.

This report details Health Canada's individual departmental actions that support the targets and/or goals of the 2019 to 2022 Federal Sustainable Development Strategy (FSDS). For information on the Government of Canada's overall progress on the targets of the FSDS, please see the FSDS Progress Report, which, per the requirements of the strengthened Federal Sustainable Development Act, is released at least once in each three year period.

1. Introduction to the Departmental Sustainable Development Strategy

The 2019 to 2022 Federal Sustainable Development Strategy (FSDS) presents the Government of Canada's sustainable development goals and targets, as required by the Federal Sustainable Development Act. In keeping with the requirements of the Act, Health Canada has developed this report to demonstrate progress in implementing its Departmental Sustainable Development Strategy in support of the 2019 to 2022 FSDS.

In 2015, Canada, and 192 other United Nations (UN) Member States, adopted the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. The 2030 Agenda includes seventeen Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to address global challenges. Section 3 of this report indicates which UN SDGs are supported by the departmental actions outlined in Health Canada's Sustainable Development Strategy.

2. Sustainable Development in Health Canada

Health Canada's 2021 to 2022 Departmental Sustainable Development Strategy describes the department's actions in support of achieving the following goals in the 2019 to 2022 FSDS:

This report presents available results for the departmental actions pertinent to these goals. Previous years' reports are posted on the Health Canada website.

The Minister of Health shares responsibility with the Minister of Environment and Climate Change for the target related to the Chemicals Management Plan, which supports the goal of Safe and Healthy Communities.

3. Departmental Performance by FSDS Goal

The following provides performance information on departmental actions in support of the FSDS goals listed in section 2.

Context: Effective Action on Climate Change

Climate change is a critical global problem that could affect future generations' ability to meet their basic needs. Adaptation, a key factor in addressing climate change, is about making smart, informed, forward-looking decisions that take future climate conditions into account.

Health Canada contributed to this goal in several ways: by conducting climate change and health research; by increasing knowledge, capacity and tools to help decision makers, by developing and implementing evidence-based adaptation measures; and through HealthADAPT, which provided funding to support the health sector in delivering projects to help prepare for and respond to the impacts of climate change.

FSDS Goal: Effective Action on Climate Change – A low-carbon economy contributes to limiting global average temperature rise to well below two degrees Celsius and supports efforts to limit the increase to 1.5 degrees Celsius.

FSDS Target
Actions supporting the Goal: Effective Action on Climate Change.

FSDS Contributing Action
Work with partners on climate change.

Corresponding Departmental Action
Increase knowledge, capacity and tools to support evidence-based adaptation measures to protect health from extreme heat as a result of climate change.

Starting Point: In 2019-20, 77% of health regions in Canada had implemented evidence-based adaptation measures to protect health from extreme heat.

Performance Indicator: Percentage of health regions implementing evidence-based adaptation measures to protect health from extreme heat.

Target: At least 80% by March 31, 2026.

Results to be Achieved: By March 31, 2022, 79% (89/112) of health regions in Canada had implemented evidence-based adaptation measures to protect health from extreme heat. Over the reporting period, Health Canada conducted the following key activities:

  • Provided support to the British Columbia Interior Health region to continue to establish their Heat Alert and Response System, with a focus on Indigenous communities, and region-wide response actions.
  • Hosted a Pre-Heat Season Heat Community of Practice webinar to support knowledge transfer of lessons learned and best practices with partners and stakeholders.
  • Supported the British Columbia Centre for Disease Control, the British Columbia Ministry of Health, and the Interior Health Authority in responding to the 2021 western heat dome, an extreme heat event that affected Western Canada, specifically in British Columbia. This support included organizing a meeting with health experts to share advice about how to protect Canadians from extreme indoor temperatures; providing contracts for research projects to better understand the health impacts of the heat event; and, the development of health promotion materials and training materials for health professionals.

Contribution to the FSDS Goal and Target
By increasing knowledge, capacity, and tools, Health Canada helps decision-makers, such as health regions, develop and implement evidence-based adaptation measures to protect health from extreme heat resulting from climate change. For example, Health Canada's efforts support the creation and maintenance of heat alert and response systems, the dissemination of heat health information, and the development of training for health professionals and pharmacists. These efforts are important in protecting health since the frequency of extreme heat events in many Canadian locations is modelled to at least double by 2050. This work therefore contributes to the FSDS goal of effective action on climate change.

This work links to SDG 13: Climate Action and targets 13.1, 13.2, 13.3, and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals and target 17.17.

FSDS Target
Actions supporting the Goal: Effective Action on Climate Change.

FSDS Contributing Action
Develop a solid base of scientific research and analysis on climate change.

Corresponding Departmental Action
Conduct climate change and health research and analysis with a broad range of partners, and disseminate information regarding the risks of climate change to the health of Canadians and the health system.

Starting Point: Previous assessments, including Human Health in a Changing Climate: A Canadian Assessment of Vulnerabilities and Adaptive Capacity (2008) and 'Chapter 7: Human Health' in Canada in a Changing Climate: Sector Perspectives on Impacts and Adaptation (2014) are available online.

Performance Indicator: Public release of the Health of Canadians in a Changing Climate: Advancing our Knowledge for Action Report.

Target: By December 2021.

Results Met: In 2021-22, the report Health of Canadians in a Changing Climate: Advancing our Knowledge for Action was published. The Report is part of a series of national assessments led by Natural Resources Canada. These reports are available to Canadians and provide information about climate change impacts to help inform decision making and actions to adapt to a changing climate.

Contribution to the FSDS Goal and Target
By conducting research and analysis, and disseminating information, Health Canada helps inform effective action on climate change. The report Health of Canadians in a Changing Climate: Advancing our Knowledge for Action, published in February 2022, provides information on current and projected impacts from climate change on the health of individual Canadians, their communities and health systems. This supports the development of needed adaptations by health and emergency management decision-makers at local, provincial/territorial and national levels, as well as by community organizations that work with the most vulnerable in our society. As such, this report will support initiatives that contribute to the FSDS goal of effective action on climate change.

This work links to SDG 1: No Poverty and target 1.5; SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities and target 11.b; SDG 13: Climate Action and targets 13.1, 13.2, and 13.3; and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals and target 17.17.

FSDS Target
Actions supporting the Goal: Effective Action on Climate Change.

FSDS Contributing Action
Provide support and funding for climate resilience.

Corresponding Departmental Action
Provide funding to support the health sector in preparing and adapting to the impacts of climate change.

Starting Point: The Climate Change and Health Adaptation Capacity Building Program was launched in June 2018. Funded health system actors have not yet completed their projects and implemented adaptation measures.

Performance Indicator: Percentage of funded health system actors that have taken evidence-based adaptation measures to reduce the health effects of climate change.

Target: 80% by March 31, 2022.

Results Met: In 2021-22, 100% (10/10) of funding recipients continue to make progress on their projects and have taken evidence-based measures to adapt to the health impacts of climate change.

Contribution to the FSDS Goal and Target
Funding provided through HealthADAPT, a climate change and health adaptation capacity building program, supports health authorities (including provincial/territorial ministries of health; province-wide, regional and local health authorities; and public health units) to deliver projects that will help prepare for and respond to the impacts of climate change. Results from the HealthADAPT projects will ultimately help facilitate climate change adaptation across Canada, with the aim of building climate resilience and protecting human health.

This funding supports the FSDS goal by helping to fund evidence-based action on climate change.

This work links to SDG 1: No Poverty and target 1.5; SDG 3: Good Health and Well-Being and target 3.4; SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities and target 11.b; SDG 13: Climate Action and targets 13.1 and 13.3; and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals and target 17.17.

Context: Greening Government

The updated Greening Government Strategy (GGS), released in 2020, commits the Government of Canada to having net-zero emissions by 2050. Net-zero means reducing GHG emissions from operations to as close to zero as possible and then balancing out any remaining emissions with an equivalent amount of carbon removal.

To implement net-zero in real property and fleet operations, the Government of Canada has committed to reducing absolute GHG emissions by 40% by 2025 and by at least 90% below 2005 levels by 2050. On this emissions reduction pathway, the government will aspire to reduce emissions by an additional 10% each 5 years starting in 2025.

Health Canada's commitments under this goal advanced work to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from our facilities and our fleet. The department's greening government work also included initiatives to increase energy performance, steps to initiate a comprehensive climate change risk assessment for the department, and the integration of environmental considerations into procurement decisions.

Note: the FSDS targets below reflect the direction from the original GGS that was released in 2017 and was in effect when the 2019 to 2022 FSDS was prepared.

FSDS Goal: Greening Government – The Government of Canada will transition to low-carbon, climate-resilient and green operations.

FSDS Target
Reduce GHG emissions from federal government facilities and fleets by 40% below 2005 levels by 2030 (with an aspiration to achieve this target by 2025) and 80% below 2005 levels by 2050 (with an aspiration to be carbon neutral).

FSDS Contributing Action
All new buildings and major building retrofits will prioritize low-carbon investments based on integrated design principles, and life-cycle and total-cost-of ownership assessments which incorporate shadow carbon pricing.

Corresponding Departmental Action
Adopt and maintain approaches and activities that reduce Health Canada's energy use and improve the overall environmental performance of departmental-owned buildings.

Starting Point: GHG emissions from buildings in fiscal year 2005-06 = 20.8ktCO2e.

Performance Indicator: Percentage change in GHG emissions from facilities from fiscal year 2005-06

  • GHG emissions from buildings in 2021-22 (kt CO2e).

Target: 40% below 2005 levels by 2030 (includes fleet and facilities).

Results Met: Health Canada has reduced GHG emissions from facilities by 55% from the 2005-06 baseline.

Total emissions:

  • 9,365 tCO2e.

Energy use intensity:

  • 2,700 MJ/m ².

Contribution to the FSDS Goal and Target
The activities and results under this departmental action directly support the FSDS target to reduce GHG emissions from facilities by reducing the demand for energy or supporting the switch to lower carbon sources of energy. These contributions are made by establishing processes to track and publicly report on GHG emissions from Health Canada-owned facilities; facilitating planning to ensure that environmental performance can be reported; and increasing awareness about opportunities to improve the energy efficiency in our operations.

This work links to SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy and target 7.3.

FSDS Target
Reduce GHG emissions from federal government facilities and fleets by 40% below 2005 levels by 2030 (with an aspiration to achieve this target by 2025) and 80% below 2005 levels by 2050 (with an aspiration to be carbon neutral).

FSDS Contributing Action
All new buildings and major building retrofits will prioritize low-carbon investments based on integrated design principles, and life-cycle and total-cost-of ownership assessments which incorporate shadow carbon pricing.

Corresponding Departmental Action
Adopt and maintain approaches and activities that reduce Health Canada's energy use and improve the overall environmental performance of departmental-owned buildings.

Starting Point: New initiative.

Performance Indicator: Percentage of custodial facilities with building-level water meters.

Target: 100% of custodial facilities with building-level water meters by March 31, 2022, in order to start reporting total potable water use.

Results Met: 100% (6/6) of Health Canada custodial facilities have building-level water meters, which will allow the department to begin reporting total potable water use.

Contribution to the FSDS Goal and Target
The activities and results under this departmental action directly support the FSDS target to reduce GHG emissions from facilities by reducing the demand for energy or supporting the switch to lower carbon sources of energy. These contributions are made by establishing processes to track and publicly report on GHG emissions from Health Canada-owned facilities; facilitating planning to ensure that environmental performance can be reported; and increasing awareness about opportunities to improve the energy efficiency in our operations.

This work links to SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy and target 7.3.

FSDS Target
Reduce GHG emissions from federal government facilities and fleets by 40% below 2005 levels by 2030 (with an aspiration to achieve this target by 2025) and 80% below 2005 levels by 2050 (with an aspiration to be carbon neutral).

FSDS Contributing Action
Departments will adopt and deploy clean technologies and implement procedures to manage building operations and take advantage of programs to improve the environmental performance of their buildings.

Corresponding Departmental Action
Identify opportunities to facilitate awareness about energy use and technologies that improve environmental performance in order to improve the environmental performance of departmental-owned buildings.

Starting Point: New initiatives.

Performance Indicator: Number of communication messages designed for lab employees related to energy efficiency.

Target 1: Two communication messages delivered to Health Canada lab employees related to energy efficiency best practices for Chemical Fume Hoods (CFH) use and maintenance by March 31, 2022.

Target 2: Two communication messages delivered to Health Canada lab employees related to energy efficiency best practices for freezer use and maintenance by March 31, 2022.

Results Target 1

Met: In 2021-22, two "Chemical Fume Hoods and Energy Consumption" messages were sent to laboratory staff. The messaging included general information as well as specific opportunities to reduce energy consumption (e.g., "close the sash").

Results Target 2

Met: In 2021-22, two messages related to "Refrigeration & Energy Efficiency" were sent to laboratory staff.

Contribution to the FSDS Goal and Target
The activities and results achieved under this departmental action directly support the FSDS target to reduce GHG emissions from facilities by enabling an understanding and use of the range of applications of clean technology in building operations, including RETScreen, to inform decisions and raise awareness about energy use. These efforts help Health Canada to ultimately reduce greenhouse gas emissions and support more efficient production and consumption by improving the environmental performance of departmental-owned buildings.

This work links to SDG 9: Industry Innovation and Infrastructure and target 9.4.

FSDS Target
Reduce GHG emissions from federal government facilities and fleets by 40% below 2005 levels by 2030 (with an aspiration to achieve this target by 2025) and 80% below 2005 levels by 2050 (with an aspiration to be carbon neutral).

FSDS Contributing Action
Departments will adopt and deploy clean technologies and implement procedures to manage building operations and take advantage of programs to improve the environmental performance of their buildings.

Corresponding Departmental Action
Identify opportunities to facilitate awareness about energy use and technologies that improve environmental performance in order to improve the environmental performance of departmental-owned buildings.

Starting Point: In 2019-20, Health Canada began using RETScreen, a Clean Energy Management Software system for energy efficiency, renewable energy and cogeneration project feasibility analysis as well as ongoing energy performance analysis.

Performance Indicator: Percentage of building fit-ups, refits, major* investments and new construction projects that use RETScreen to inform potential energy efficiency improvement decisions by March 31, 2022.

Target: 100% (annual).

* The Greening Government Strategy - Real Property Guidance has defined "major" as projects in which changes proposed to the building envelope and HVAC systems or the proposed value of work is more than 50% of the assessed value of the building.

Results Met: In 2021-22, 100% (2/2) of major building fit-ups, refits, major investments or new construction projects used RETScreen to inform decisions related to energy efficiency.

RETScreen technology was used to develop an energy consumption portfolio and greenhouse gas analysis for the Environmental Health Centre Demolition Project and the Air Handling Unit/Boiler Projects at the Sir Frederick Banting Building.

Contribution to the FSDS Goal and Target
The activities and results achieved under this departmental action directly support the FSDS target to reduce GHG emissions from facilities by enabling an understanding and use of the range of applications of clean technology in building operations, including RETScreen, to inform decisions and raise awareness about energy use. These efforts help Health Canada to ultimately reduce greenhouse gas emissions and support more efficient production and consumption by improving the environmental performance of departmental-owned buildings.

This work links to SDG 9: Industry Innovation and Infrastructure and target 9.4.

FSDS Target
Reduce GHG emissions from federal government facilities and fleets by 40% below 2005 levels by 2030 (with an aspiration to achieve this target by 2025) and 80% below 2005 levels by 2050 (with an aspiration to be carbon neutral).

FSDS Contributing Action
Departments will adopt and deploy clean technologies and implement procedures to manage building operations and take advantage of programs to improve the environmental performance of their buildings.

Corresponding Departmental Action
Identify opportunities to facilitate awareness about energy use and technologies that improve environmental performance in order to improve the environmental performance of departmental-owned buildings.

Starting Point: In 2019-20, an energy performance feasibility analysis was completed, in partnership with Natural Resources Canada, at the Health Canada Radiation Protection Building in Ottawa, ON.

Performance Indicator: Number of energy performance feasibility analyses completed in partnership with Natural Resources Canada.

Target: One energy performance feasibility analysis completed by March 31, 2022.

Results Not Met: Work to advance the energy performance feasibility analysis was delayed due to limited access to the building during the COVID-19 pandemic. A site visit is required to upload all building mechanical data into RETScreen. This work is expected to be completed in 2022-23.

Contribution to the FSDS Goal and Target
The activities and results achieved under this departmental action directly support the FSDS target to reduce GHG emissions from facilities by enabling an understanding and use of the range of applications of clean technology in building operations, including RETScreen, to inform decisions and raise awareness about energy use. These efforts help Health Canada to ultimately reduce greenhouse gas emissions and support more efficient production and consumption by improving the environmental performance of departmental-owned buildings.

This work links to SDG 9: Industry Innovation and Infrastructure and target 9.4.

FSDS Target
Reduce GHG emissions from federal government facilities and fleets by 40% below 2005 levels by 2030 (with an aspiration to achieve this target by 2025) and 80% below 2005 levels by 2050 (with an aspiration to be carbon neutral).

FSDS Contributing Action
Departments will adopt and deploy clean technologies and implement procedures to manage building operations and take advantage of programs to improve the environmental performance of their buildings.

Corresponding Departmental Action
Identify opportunities to facilitate awareness about energy use and technologies that improve environmental performance in order to improve the environmental performance of departmental-owned buildings.

Starting Point: New initiative.

Performance Indicator: Number of energy performance contracts initiated to improve low-carbon performance of buildings.

Target: Three energy performance contracts initiated at the Radiation Protection Building in Ottawa, ON by March 31, 2022.

Results Not Met: In 2021-22, one energy performance contract was completed for the Radiation Protection Building in Ottawa, ON. Based on the subsequent Building Recommissioning Report, Health Canada identified a prioritized list of recommendations to be implemented to improve the energy performance of the building. Additional energy performance contracts are not planned at this time.

Contribution to the FSDS Goal and Target
The activities and results achieved under this departmental action directly support the FSDS target to reduce GHG emissions from facilities by enabling an understanding and use of the range of applications of clean technology in building operations, including RETScreen, to inform decisions and raise awareness about energy use. These efforts help Health Canada to ultimately reduce greenhouse gas emissions and support more efficient production and consumption by improving the environmental performance of departmental-owned buildings.

This work links to SDG 9: Industry Innovation and Infrastructure and target 9.4.

FSDS Target
Reduce GHG emissions from federal government facilities and fleets by 40% below 2005 levels by 2030 (with an aspiration to achieve this target by 2025) and 80% below 2005 levels by 2050 (with an aspiration to be carbon neutral).

FSDS Contributing Action
Fleet management will be optimized including by applying telematics to collect and analyze vehicle usage data on vehicles scheduled to be replaced.

Corresponding Departmental Action
Use telematics analysis to right-size the fleet.

Promote behavior change – e.g. car sharing initiatives and public transportation options.

Starting Point: GHG emissions from fleet in fiscal year 2005–06 = 1.6ktCO2e.

Performance Indicator: Percentage change in GHG emissions from fleet from fiscal year 2005-06

  • GHG emissions from fleet in 2020-21.
  • Overall fuel consumption.

Target: 40% below 2005 levels by 2030 (includes fleet and facilities).

Results Met: In 2021-22, GHG emissions from Health Canada's fleet were 239 tCO2eq (0.24 ktCO2eq), with an overall fuel consumption of 102,853 Litre per Gasoline Equivalent (LGE). This represents an 85% reduction from the 2005-06 baseline.

Contribution to the FSDS Goal and Target
The activities and results achieved under this departmental action directly support the FSDS target to reduce GHG emissions from fleet. The established practice of using telematics technology helps to inform decisions related to departmental fleet such as identifying opportunities to retire higher emitting vehicles.

This work links to SDG 13: Climate Action.

FSDS Target
Reduce GHG emissions from federal government facilities and fleets by 40% below 2005 levels by 2030 (with an aspiration to achieve this target by 2025) and 80% below 2005 levels by 2050 (with an aspiration to be carbon neutral).

FSDS Contributing Action
Fleet management will be optimized including by applying telematics to collect and analyze vehicle usage data on vehicles scheduled to be replaced.

Corresponding Departmental Action
Use telematics analysis to right-size the fleet.

Promote behavior change – e.g. car sharing initiatives and public transportation options.

Starting Point: Annual target.

Performance Indicator: Percentage of employee air travel booked centrally to allow for tracking of GHG emissions.

Target: 100% (annual).

Results Met: In 2021-22, 100% of employee air travel was booked centrally.

Note: due to COVID-19, employee air travel was lower in 2021-22 compared with previous years.

Contribution to the FSDS Goal and Target
The activities and results achieved under this departmental action directly support the FSDS target to reduce GHG emissions from fleet. The established practice of using telematics technology helps to inform decisions related to departmental fleet such as identifying opportunities to retire higher emitting vehicles.

This work links to SDG 13: Climate Action.

FSDS Target
Divert at least 75% (by weight) of non-hazardous operational waste from landfills by 2030.

FSDS Contributing Action
Other.

Corresponding Departmental Action
Track and disclose waste diversion rates by 2022.

Assess the waste stream to inform future decisions and options to divert operational waste from landfills.

Starting Point: New initiative.

Performance Indicator: Percentage of non-hazardous operational waste diverted from Health Canada's custodial buildings in the National Capital Region (NCR) is reported publicly.*

* Applies to facilities over 10,000m2 within a municipality with a population of over 100,000 people.

Target: Report on waste diversion rates and disposal methods by 2022.*

* Diversion percentages will be based on industry average weight by waste stream multiplied by number of bins collected at each site.

Results Met: In 2021-22, 25,724 kg of non-hazardous waste from Health Canada's six custodial buildings was diverted from the landfill and recycled. The waste diversion rate for 2021-22 was 23%.

Contribution to the FSDS Goal and Target
The activities and results achieved under this departmental action directly support the FSDS target to divert non-hazardous operational waste from landfills. Activities supporting waste diversion decisions and processes (e.g. waste audits, tracking and reporting) ultimately help to reduce Scope 3 emissions by diverting waste from landfills, reducing landfill gas and transport hauling emissions. Also, recovering material through recycling initiatives helps reduce emissions generated by the extraction and production of virgin materials.

This work links to SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production and target 12.5.

FSDS Target
Divert at least 75% (by weight) of non-hazardous operational waste from landfills by 2030.

FSDS Contributing Action
Other.

Corresponding Departmental Action
Track and disclose waste diversion rates by 2022.

Assess the waste stream to inform future decisions and options to divert operational waste from landfills.

Starting Point: In 2020-21, Health Canada completed the analysis of waste audits in its custodial facilities in the National Capital Region (NCR) and prioritized the need for composting.

Performance Indicator: Pilot composting project to be initiated in the largest NCR facility, Sir Frederick Banting Research Centre (SFBRC) in Ottawa, ON.

Target: Composting available in the SFBRC facility by March 31, 2022 in Ottawa, ON.

Results Not Met: Work to advance the implementation of a composting program at the SFBRC was delayed due to limited access to the building during the COVID-19 pandemic. Implementation will advance once occupancy levels are normalized and the program can be effectively communicated to all employees in the building.

Contribution to the FSDS Goal and Target
The activities and results achieved under this departmental action directly support the FSDS target to divert non-hazardous operational waste from landfills. Activities supporting waste diversion decisions and processes (e.g. waste audits, tracking and reporting) ultimately help to reduce Scope 3 emissions by diverting waste from landfills, reducing landfill gas and transport hauling emissions. Also, recovering material through recycling initiatives helps reduce emissions generated by the extraction and production of virgin materials.

This work links to SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production and target 12.5.

FSDS Target
Divert at least 75% (by weight) of non-hazardous operational waste from landfills by 2030.

FSDS Contributing Action
Other.

Corresponding Departmental Action
Track and disclose waste diversion rates by 2022.

Assess the waste stream to inform future decisions and options to divert operational waste from landfills.

Starting Point: In 2020-21, Health Canada completed the analysis of waste audits in its custodial facilities in the National Capital Region (NCR) and prioritized the need for composting.

Performance Indicator: Percentage of Health Canada's regional custodial facilities that have waste audits completed.

Target: 100% by March 31, 2022 (n=2).

Results Met: 100% (2/2) of Health Canada's regional custodial facilities have had waste audits completed.

Contribution to the FSDS Goal and Target
The activities and results achieved under this departmental action directly support the FSDS target to divert non-hazardous operational waste from landfills. Activities supporting waste diversion decisions and processes (e.g. waste audits, tracking and reporting) ultimately help to reduce Scope 3 emissions by diverting waste from landfills, reducing landfill gas and transport hauling emissions. Also, recovering material through recycling initiatives helps reduce emissions generated by the extraction and production of virgin materials.

This work links to SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production and target 12.5.

FSDS Target
Divert at least 75% (by weight) of plastic waste from landfills by 2030.

FSDS Contributing Action
Other.

Corresponding Departmental Action
Track and disclose waste diversion rates by 2022.

Eliminate the unnecessary use of single-use plastics in government operations, events and meetings.

Implement initiatives and processes to facilitate plastic waste diversion from Health Canada's operations.

Starting Point: New initiative.

Performance Indicator:

Percentage of plastic waste diverted is reported publicly.*

* Applies to facilities over 10,000m2 within a municipality with a population of over 100,000 people.

Target: Report on waste diversion rates by March 31, 2022.*

*Pending clarification regarding the industry standard for co-mingled waste streams at the point of collection.

Results Met: Public Services and Procurement Canada provides annual waste diversion rates for Health Canada's custodial buildings as part of the Waste Disposal Contract. Results from the waste audit completed in 2020, found that approximately 1,249 kg/year of plastic waste was diverted from landfill to be recycled.

Contribution to the FSDS Goal and Target
The activities and results achieved under this departmental action directly support the FSDS target to divert plastic waste from landfills. Activities supporting waste diversion decisions and processes (e.g. reporting on diverted plastic waste) ultimately help to reduce Scope 3 emissions by diverting waste from landfills, reducing landfill gas and transport hauling emissions. Also, recovering material through recycling initiatives helps reduce emissions generated by the extraction and production of virgin materials (e.g. nitrile glove recycling).

This work links to SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production and target 12.5.

FSDS Target
Divert at least 75% (by weight) of plastic waste from landfills by 2030.

FSDS Contributing Action
Other.

Corresponding Departmental Action
Track and disclose waste diversion rates by 2022.

Eliminate the unnecessary use of single-use plastics in government operations, events and meetings.

Implement initiatives and processes to facilitate plastic waste diversion from Health Canada's operations.

Starting Point: In 2020-21, a Nitrile Glove Recycling Program was initiated at the Longueil laboratory in QC.

Performance Indicator: Percentage of Health Canada's labs that have implemented the nitrile glove recycling initiative.

Target: 100% by March 30, 2022 (n=7).

Results Not Met: In 2021-22, 14% (1/7) of Health Canada's labs had implemented a Nitrile Glove Recycling Program, which diverted 311 lbs of gloves for recycling. Opportunities to introduce a similar program in Health Canada's other laboratory settings will continue to be examined in 2022-23.

Contribution to the FSDS Goal and Target
The activities and results achieved under this departmental action directly support the FSDS target to divert plastic waste from landfills. Activities supporting waste diversion decisions and processes (e.g. reporting on diverted plastic waste) ultimately help to reduce Scope 3 emissions by diverting waste from landfills, reducing landfill gas and transport hauling emissions. Also, recovering material through recycling initiatives helps reduce emissions generated by the extraction and production of virgin materials (e.g. nitrile glove recycling).

This work links to SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production and target 12.5.

FSDS Target
Divert at least 90% (by weight) of all construction and demolition waste from landfills (striving to achieve 100% by 2030).

FSDS Contributing Action
Other.

Corresponding Departmental Action
Track and disclose our waste diversion rates by 2022.

Starting Point: New initiative.

Performance Indicator: Percentage of construction and demolition waste diverted and disposable methods reported publicly.*

* When projects meet the minimum threshold of $5M and in areas where diversion facilities exist.

Target: Report on construction and demolition waste diversion rates and disposal methods by March 31, 2022.

Results Met: In 2021-22, no projects were undertaken that met the minimum threshold of $5M.

Contribution to the FSDS Goal and Target
The activities and results achieved under this departmental action directly support the FSDS target to divert construction and demolition waste from landfills. Activities supporting waste diversion decisions and processes (e.g. tracking and publicly reporting diversion of construction and demolition waste) ultimately help to reduce Scope 3 emissions by diverting waste from landfills, and reducing landfill gas and transport hauling emissions.

This work links to SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production and target 12.5.

FSDS Target
Our administrative fleet will be comprised of at least 80% zero-emission vehicles (ZEV) by 2030.

FSDS Contributing Action
Fleet management will be optimized including by applying telematics to collect and analyze vehicle usage data on vehicles scheduled to be replaced.

Corresponding Departmental Action
Use telematics analysis to right-size the fleet.

Increase the percentage of departmental fleet that are ZEV or hybrid, whenever operationally feasible.

Starting Point: In 2019-20, telematics was installed on all vehicles in the Health Canada fleet to collect data that informs the management of the departmental fleet.

Performance Indicator: Percentage of compatible and/or applicable vehicles logged via telematics.

Target: 100% (annual).

Results Not Met: In 2021-22, Health Canada initiated the implementation of a new telematics system for the departmental fleet.

By March 31, 2022, 78% (131/167) of the existing fleet had new devices installed. The remainder of telematics devices will be installed in the first quarter of 2022-23.

Contribution to the FSDS Goal and Target
The activities and results achieved under this departmental action directly support the FSDS target to reduce GHG emissions from fleet. The use of telematics helps to inform decisions and planning related to fleet purchases, which facilitates replacement of conventional vehicles over their lifetimes with ZEVs. Work to advance a National Fleet Management Strategy will also enable Health Canada to continue to examine ways to support reductions in GHG emissions from fleet.

This work links to SDG 13: Climate Action.

FSDS Target
Our administrative fleet will be comprised of at least 80% zero-emission vehicles (ZEV) by 2030.

FSDS Contributing Action
Fleet management will be optimized including by applying telematics to collect and analyze vehicle usage data on vehicles scheduled to be replaced.

Corresponding Departmental Action
Use telematics analysis to right-size the fleet.

Increase the percentage of departmental fleet that are ZEV or hybrid, whenever operationally feasible.

Starting Point: In 2019-20, Health Canada had 188 vehicles in its administrative fleet, 23 of which were ZEV or hybrids.

Performance Indicator: Percentage of new light-duty unmodified administrative fleet vehicle purchases that are ZEV or hybrid

  • Total number of vehicles in administrative fleet in 2021-22.
  • Total number of new light-duty unmodified administrative fleet vehicles purchased in 2021-22.
  • Total number of ZEV or hybrid purchased in 2021-22.

Target: 75% (annual).

Results Met: In 2021-22, 80% (4/5) of vehicles purchased were hybrid or ZEV.

  • Total number of vehicles in administrative fleet in 2021-22 was 167.
  • Total number of new light-duty unmodified administrative fleet vehicles purchased in 2021-22 was five.
  • Total number of hybrid vehicles purchased in 2021-22 was four.

Contribution to the FSDS Goal and Target
The activities and results achieved under this departmental action directly support the FSDS target to reduce GHG emissions from fleet. The use of telematics helps to inform decisions and planning related to fleet purchases, which facilitates replacement of conventional vehicles over their lifetimes with ZEVs. Work to advance a National Fleet Management Strategy will also enable Health Canada to continue to examine ways to support reductions in GHG emissions from fleet.

This work links to SDG 13: Climate Action.

FSDS Target
Our administrative fleet will be comprised of at least 80% zero-emission vehicles (ZEV) by 2030.

FSDS Contributing Action
Fleet management will be optimized including by applying telematics to collect and analyze vehicle usage data on vehicles scheduled to be replaced.

Corresponding Departmental Action
Use telematics analysis to right-size the fleet.

Increase the percentage of departmental fleet that are ZEV or hybrid, whenever operationally feasible.

Starting Point: In 2019-20, Health Canada had three executive vehicles in its fleet, one of which was ZEV or hybrid.

Performance Indicator: Percentage of executive vehicle purchases that are ZEV or hybrid

  • Total number of new executive vehicles purchased in 2021-22.
  • Total number of ZEV or hybrid purchases in 2021-22.

Target: 100% (annual).

Results Met: In 2021-22, Health Canada procured no new executive vehicles.

Contribution to the FSDS Goal and Target
The activities and results achieved under this departmental action directly support the FSDS target to reduce GHG emissions from fleet. The use of telematics helps to inform decisions and planning related to fleet purchases, which facilitates replacement of conventional vehicles over their lifetimes with ZEVs. Work to advance a National Fleet Management Strategy will also enable Health Canada to continue to examine ways to support reductions in GHG emissions from fleet.

This work links to SDG 13: Climate Action.

FSDS Target
Our administrative fleet will be comprised of at least 80% zero-emission vehicles (ZEV) by 2030.

FSDS Contributing Action
Fleet management will be optimized including by applying telematics to collect and analyze vehicle usage data on vehicles scheduled to be replaced.

Corresponding Departmental Action
Use telematics analysis to right-size the fleet.

Increase the percentage of departmental fleet that are ZEV or hybrid, whenever operationally feasible.

Starting Point: New initiative.

Performance Indicator: Relevant indicators will be established following the development of a National Fleet Management Strategy for the department that enables a fleet that is reliable, available, right-sized and 'green'.

Target: Strategy and supporting implementation plan developed by March 31, 2022.

Results Not Met: In 2021-22, fleet management priorities were re-evaluated. As a result, focus was placed on the development, approval and distribution of a new Fleet Standard (Standard) for the department, which aims to clarify roles and responsibilities for the various stakeholders, as well as to provide a framework to develop Standard Operating Procedures for specific fleet management practices. In 2022-23, procedures to support implementation of the Standard will be put in place to inform ongoing efforts to right-size the fleet.

Contribution to the FSDS Goal and Target
The activities and results achieved under this departmental action directly support the FSDS target to reduce GHG emissions from fleet. The use of telematics helps to inform decisions and planning related to fleet purchases, which facilitates replacement of conventional vehicles over their lifetimes with ZEVs. Work to advance a National Fleet Management Strategy will also enable Health Canada to continue to examine ways to support reductions in GHG emissions from fleet.

This work links to SDG 13: Climate Action.

FSDS Target
By 2022, departments have developed measures to reduce climate change risks to assets, services and operations.

FSDS Contributing Action
Increase training and support on assessing climate change impacts, undertaking climate change risk assessments and developing adaptation actions to public service employees, and facilitate sharing of best practices and lessons learned.

Corresponding Departmental Action
Understand the wide range of climate change impacts that could potentially affect federal assets, services and operations across the country.

Starting Point: Beginning in 2020-21, Health Canada regularized the practice of reviewing Building Condition Reports (BCR) to identify potential climate-related exposures.

Performance Indicator: Percentage of BCR reviewed to identify potential climate-related exposures.

Target: 100% (annual).

Results Met: In 2021-22, 100% of BCRs were reviewed to identify potential climate-related exposures (e.g., snow loads, extreme weather events). In 2022-23, Health Canada will also include Energy Audits as part of the BCR review process.

Contribution to the FSDS Goal and Target
Factoring climate variability and change into policy, programs, and operations supports the FSDS target to reduce climate change risk to assets, services and operations. Activities that increase the understanding of climate change impacts, and maximize the use of existing tools and information sources (e.g. BCR, Building Specific Continuity Plans) help to support the department's ability to adapt to a changing climate.

In addition, program leads supporting the preparation of a comprehensive climate change risk assessment for Health Canada have attended presentations from the Canadian Centre for Climate Services regarding the science of climate change and data availability. Members of the core project team for the risk assessment also completed the Federal Training on Climate Information and Risk Assessments, and Health Canada is a member of the Climate Change Adaptation Services Network, where best practices for risk assessment are shared. This training and support has helped to establish foundational knowledge within the department that will serve to advance the risk assessment and identify adaptation actions going forward.

This work links to SDG 13: Climate Action.

FSDS Target
By 2022, departments have developed measures to reduce climate change risks to assets, services and operations.

FSDS Contributing Action
Increase training and support on assessing climate change impacts, undertaking climate change risk assessments and developing adaptation actions to public service employees, and facilitate sharing of best practices and lessons learned.

Corresponding Departmental Action
Understand the wide range of climate change impacts that could potentially affect federal assets, services and operations across the country.

Starting Point: New initiative.

Performance Indicator: Percentage of site-specific climate change vulnerability and risk assessments completed on Health Canada-owned buildings in the National Capital Region (NCR).

Target: 100% by March 31, 2022 (n=5).

Results Not Met: Health Canada is proceeding with a comprehensive Climate Change Risk Assessment that will include all custodial buildings. It is anticipated that the analysis for Health Canada-owned buildings in the NCR will be completed by December 2022.

Contribution to the FSDS Goal and Target
Factoring climate variability and change into policy, programs, and operations supports the FSDS target to reduce climate change risk to assets, services and operations. Activities that increase the understanding of climate change impacts, and maximize the use of existing tools and information sources (e.g. BCR, Building Specific Continuity Plans) help to support the department's ability to adapt to a changing climate.

In addition, program leads supporting the preparation of a comprehensive climate change risk assessment for Health Canada have attended presentations from the Canadian Centre for Climate Services regarding the science of climate change and data availability. Members of the core project team for the risk assessment also completed the Federal Training on Climate Information and Risk Assessments, and Health Canada is a member of the Climate Change Adaptation Services Network, where best practices for risk assessment are shared. This training and support has helped to establish foundational knowledge within the department that will serve to advance the risk assessment and identify adaptation actions going forward.

This work links to SDG 13: Climate Action.

FSDS Target
By 2022, departments have developed measures to reduce climate change risks to assets, services and operations.

FSDS Contributing Action
Increase training and support on assessing climate change impacts, undertaking climate change risk assessments and developing adaptation actions to public service employees, and facilitate sharing of best practices and lessons learned.

Corresponding Departmental Action
Understand the wide range of climate change impacts that could potentially affect federal assets, services and operations across the country.

Starting Point: New initiative.

Performance Indicator: Percentage of site-specific climate change vulnerability and risk assessments completed on Health Canada-owned regional buildings.

Target: 100% by March 31, 2022 (n=2).

Results Not Met: Health Canada is proceeding with a comprehensive Climate Change Risk Assessment that will include all custodial buildings. It is anticipated that the analysis for Health Canada-owned regional buildings in the National Capital Region will be completed by December 2022.

Contribution to the FSDS Goal and Target
Factoring climate variability and change into policy, programs, and operations supports the FSDS target to reduce climate change risk to assets, services and operations. Activities that increase the understanding of climate change impacts, and maximize the use of existing tools and information sources (e.g. BCR, Building Specific Continuity Plans) help to support the department's ability to adapt to a changing climate.

In addition, program leads supporting the preparation of a comprehensive climate change risk assessment for Health Canada have attended presentations from the Canadian Centre for Climate Services regarding the science of climate change and data availability. Members of the core project team for the risk assessment also completed the Federal Training on Climate Information and Risk Assessments, and Health Canada is a member of the Climate Change Adaptation Services Network, where best practices for risk assessment are shared. This training and support has helped to establish foundational knowledge within the department that will serve to advance the risk assessment and identify adaptation actions going forward.

This work links to SDG 13: Climate Action.

FSDS Target
By 2022, departments have developed measures to reduce climate change risks to assets, services and operations.

FSDS Contributing Action
Increase training and support on assessing climate change impacts, undertaking climate change risk assessments and developing adaptation actions to public service employees, and facilitate sharing of best practices and lessons learned.

Corresponding Departmental Action
Understand the wide range of climate change impacts that could potentially affect federal assets, services and operations across the country.

Starting Point: New initiative.

Performance Indicator: Percentage of custodial sites that receive the results of the climate change risk assessments and recommendations for incorporation into their Business Continuity Plans.

Target: 100% by December 30, 2022 (n=7).

Results to be Achieved: Health Canada is proceeding with a comprehensive Climate Change Risk Assessment that will include all custodial buildings. An internal survey has been completed to collect data and identify climate change risks. Analysis of survey results is underway and will help to inform updates to Business Continuity Plans.

Contribution to the FSDS Goal and Target
Factoring climate variability and change into policy, programs, and operations supports the FSDS target to reduce climate change risk to assets, services and operations. Activities that increase the understanding of climate change impacts, and maximize the use of existing tools and information sources (e.g. BCR, Building Specific Continuity Plans) help to support the department's ability to adapt to a changing climate.

In addition, program leads supporting the preparation of a comprehensive climate change risk assessment for Health Canada have attended presentations from the Canadian Centre for Climate Services regarding the science of climate change and data availability. Members of the core project team for the risk assessment also completed the Federal Training on Climate Information and Risk Assessments, and Health Canada is a member of the Climate Change Adaptation Services Network, where best practices for risk assessment are shared. This training and support has helped to establish foundational knowledge within the department that will serve to advance the risk assessment and identify adaptation actions going forward.

This work links to SDG 13: Climate Action.

FSDS Target
By 2022, departments have developed measures to reduce climate change risks to assets, services and operations.

FSDS Contributing Action
By 2021, adopt climate-resilient building codes being developed by National Research Council Canada (NRC).

Corresponding Departmental Action
Integrate climate change adaptation into the design, construction and operation aspects of real property projects.

Starting Point: New initiative.

Performance Indicator: Percentage of real property projects that integrate climate resilient building codes and NRC energy and building code requirements in the project design process.

Target: 100% (annual).

Results Met: In 2021-22, no real property projects were undertaken that required consideration of climate resilient building codes and NRC energy and building code requirements.

Contribution to the FSDS Goal and Target
The activities and results achieved under this departmental action directly support the FSDS target to adopt NRC-developed climate-resilient building codes. Early adoption of the codes in the construction of buildings (e.g. through integration of building code requirements at the design stage) and integrating adaptation in construction and operations demonstrates federal leadership in establishing climate resilient building standards.

This work links to SDG 13: Climate Action.

FSDS Target
Use 100% clean electricity by 2025.

FSDS Contributing Action
Other.

Corresponding Departmental Action
Purchase megawatt hours of renewable electricity equivalent to that produced by the high-carbon portion of the electricity grid. This includes the use of renewable electricity generated on-site or purchased off-site.

Starting Point: New initiative.

Performance Indicator: Percentage of clean electricity

  • Electricity consumption (kWh) in 2021-22.
  • Electricity consumption (kWh) from non-emitting sources (including renewable energy certificates) in 2021-22.

Target: 100% by March 31, 2025.

Results to be Achieved: Health Canada established a contract to start purchasing Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs) to offset less renewable local energy production with electricity generated from renewable energy resources. Health Canada has committed to purchasing $45,225 in RECs annually for the next 20 years to displace electricity from emitting sources.

Contribution to the FSDS Goal and Target
The activities and results achieved under this departmental action directly support the FSDS target to use 100% clean electricity by 2025 (e.g. through the purchase and use of renewable electricity). The use of clean electricity eliminates GHG emissions in jurisdictions with emitting generation sources.

This work links to SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy and target 7.2.

FSDS Target
Actions supporting the Goal: Greening Government.

FSDS Contributing Action
Minimize embodied carbon and the use of harmful materials in construction and renovation.

Corresponding Departmental Action
Specification of low embodied carbon materials in major construction and renovation contracts.

Starting Point: New initiative.

Performance Indicator: Percentage of major* construction projects in which embodied carbon in building materials was minimized.

* The Greening Government Strategy - Real Property Guidance has defined "major" as "Projects in which changes proposed to the building envelope and HVAC systems or the proposed value of work is more than 50% of the assessed value of the building".

Target: 100% (annual).

Results Met: In 2021-22, no real property projects were undertaken that required consideration of embodied carbon in building materials.

Contribution to the FSDS Goal and Target
The activities and results achieved under this departmental action directly support the FSDS goal of greening government. Specifying the need for low embodied carbon materials in major construction projects expands the market for alternative/greener methods and encourages industry to adopt low carbon extraction, production and disposal practices. This will reduce Scope 3 emissions and other harmful environmental impacts.

This work links to SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production and SDG 13: Climate Action.

FSDS Target
Actions supporting the Goal: Greening Government.

FSDS Contributing Action
Departments will use environmental criteria to reduce the environmental impact and ensure best value in government procurement decisions.

Corresponding Departmental Action
Promote environmental sustainability by integrating environmental performance considerations into departmental procurement process, including planning, acquisition, use and disposal, and ensuring there is the necessary training and awareness to support green procurement.

Starting Point: In 2019-20, 100% of procurement related documents, guides, and tools posted on Health Canada's Materiel and Assets Management intranet site were reviewed and updated to reflect green procurement objectives.

Performance Indicator: Percentage of procurement related documents, guides, and tools posted on Health Canada's Materiel and Assets Management intranet site reviewed and updated to reflect green procurement objectives, where applicable.

Target: 100% (annual).

Results Met: In 2021-22, 100% of procurement related documents, guides and tools posted on Health Canada's Materiel and Assets Management Division intranet were reviewed. No updates were required as the content was still consistent with the green procurement objectives in the Government of Canada's Greening Government Strategy.

Contribution to the FSDS Goal and Target
By considering relevant information and purchasing criteria that reflects the life-cycle of procurement decisions from acquisition to disposal, the activities and results under this departmental action directly support the FSDS goal of greening government. These actions may also help facilitate transparency of supply chains regarding steps taken by suppliers to reduce the environmental impact of the goods and services they deliver.

This work links to SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production and targets 12.5 and 12.7.

FSDS Target
Actions supporting the Goal: Greening Government.

FSDS Contributing Action
Departments will use environmental criteria to reduce the environmental impact and ensure best value in government procurement decisions.

Corresponding Departmental Action
Promote environmental sustainability by integrating environmental performance considerations into departmental procurement process, including planning, acquisition, use and disposal, and ensuring there is the necessary training and awareness to support green procurement.

Starting Point: In 2019-20, 98% of office supply purchased included criteria to reduce the environmental impact associated with the production, acquisition, use and/or disposal of the supplies (excluding purchases made on acquisition cards).

Performance Indicator: Percentage of office supply purchases that include criteria to reduce the environmental impact associated with the production, acquisition, use and/or disposal of the supplies (excluding purchases made on acquisition cards).

Target: 90% (annual).

Results Met: In 2021-22, 99% of in-scope office supplies included considerations of environmental impacts associated with the production, acquisition, use and/or disposal of the supplies. For example, recycled content and environmental attributes of the supplier (such as efficient manufacturing processes, "green" offices, or recycling programs).

Contribution to the FSDS Goal and Target
By considering relevant information and purchasing criteria that reflects the life-cycle of procurement decisions from acquisition to disposal, the activities and results under this departmental action directly support the FSDS goal of greening government. These actions may also help facilitate transparency of supply chains regarding steps taken by suppliers to reduce the environmental impact of the goods and services they deliver.

This work links to SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production and targets 12.5 and 12.7.

FSDS Target
Actions supporting the Goal: Greening Government.

FSDS Contributing Action
Departments will use environmental criteria to reduce the environmental impact and ensure best value in government procurement decisions.

Corresponding Departmental Action
Promote environmental sustainability by integrating environmental performance considerations into departmental procurement process, including planning, acquisition, use and disposal, and ensuring there is the necessary training and awareness to support green procurement.

Starting Point: In 2019-20, 100% of information technology hardware purchases included criteria to reduce the environmental impact associated with the production, acquisition, use and/or disposal of the equipment (excluding laboratory and field equipment as well as purchases made on acquisition cards).

Performance Indicator: Percentage of information technology hardware purchases that include criteria to reduce the environmental impact associated with the production, acquisition, use and/or disposal of the equipment (excluding laboratory and field equipment as well as purchases made on acquisition cards).

Note: This is done in conjunction with Shared Services Canada and/or Public Services and Procurement Canada as the IT procurement authority.

Target: 95% (annual).

Results Met: In 2021-22, 100% of in-scope information technology hardware purchases (e.g., laptops) included criteria to reduce the environmental impact associated with the production, acquisition, use, and/or disposal of the equipment.

With regards to disposal, Health Canada used the services of Government of Canada Surplus as well as the Computers for Schools Program, which helps to extend the useful life of electronic equipment and reduce the environmental impact of electronic waste.

Contribution to the FSDS Goal and Target
By considering relevant information and purchasing criteria that reflects the life-cycle of procurement decisions from acquisition to disposal, the activities and results under this departmental action directly support the FSDS goal of greening government. These actions may also help facilitate transparency of supply chains regarding steps taken by suppliers to reduce the environmental impact of the goods and services they deliver.

This work links to SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production and targets 12.5 and 12.7.

FSDS Target
Actions supporting the Goal: Greening Government.

FSDS Contributing Action
Support for green procurement will be strengthened, including guidance, tools and training for public service employees.

Corresponding Departmental Action
Ensure material management and specialists in procurement have the necessary training and awareness to support green procurement.

Starting Point: In 2019-20, 100% of specialists in procurement and materiel management completed training on green procurement or had included it in their learning plan for completion within a year.

Performance Indicator: Percentage of specialists in procurement and materiel management who have completed training on green procurement or have included it in their learning plan for completion within a year.

Target: 100% (annual).

Results Met: In 2021-22, 100% (46/46) of specialists in procurement and materiel management completed the Canada School of Public Service's green procurement course or have included it in their learning plan for completion within a year.

Contribution to the FSDS Goal and Target
By providing relevant training and information to employees about green procurement, Cost Centre Managers are able to support procurement decisions that incorporate environmental considerations into purchasing. This work supports the FSDS goal of Greening Government. These actions may also help facilitate transparency of supply chains regarding steps taken by suppliers to reduce the environmental impact of the goods and services they deliver.

This work links to SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production and targets 12.5 and 12.7.

Context: Clean Drinking Water

Clean drinking water is a fundamental human need, and helping to ensure that all Canadians have clean water to drink is a federal government priority. Providing safe drinking water requires a great deal of knowledge and coordination among multiple stakeholders, including governments, businesses and individuals across Canada.

Health Canada continued its efforts to support this goal through its work with federal, provincial and territorial partners to develop and/or update health-based drinking water quality guidelines and guidance documents for use by all jurisdictions in Canada as the basis for their own drinking water requirements.

FSDS Goal: Clean Drinking Water – All Canadians have access to safe drinking water and, in particular, the significant challenges Indigenous communities face are addressed.

FSDS Target
Actions supporting the Goal: Clean Drinking Water.

FSDS Contributing Action
Work with partners on drinking water quality.

Corresponding Departmental Action
Develop and/or update health-based drinking water quality guidelines and guidance documents in collaboration with Federal/Provincial/Territorial (FPT) partners.

Starting Point: In 2019-20, 77% of planned final water quality guidelines/guidance documents were published in Canada Gazette, Part I and online.

Performance Indicator: Percentage of planned final water quality guidelines/guidance documents published in Canada Gazette, Part I and online.

Target: 100% (annual).

Results Met: In 2021-22, 100% (11/11) of the planned final water quality guidelines/guidance documents were published in Canada Gazette, Part I and online.

Contribution to the FSDS Goal and Target
Health Canada works with other federal government departments and agencies and the provincial and territorial governments to establish the science-based Guidelines for Canadian Drinking Water Quality, which are published in the Canada Gazette, Part I and online. All jurisdictions in Canada consult and use these guidelines and related guidance documents as the basis for establishing their drinking water requirements. As a result, the development of these guidelines and guidance documents helps support the FSDS goal of ensuring all Canadians have access to safe drinking water in Canada.

This work links to SDG 3: Good Health and Well-Being and target 3.9; and SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation and target 6.1, 6.3 and 6.b.

Context: Sustainable Food

Canada's food system, including agriculture, aquaculture, fisheries and food and beverage processing, provides safe and healthy food for Canadians, helps ensure long-term food security, and is an important part of our economy.

Health Canada contributed to this goal by encouraging the uptake of Canada's Food Guide, which promotes food literacy and skills that can support healthy eating, safe food handling and help reduce food waste. The department also took steps to re-design food regulations to reduce impediments that prevent industry from bringing innovative products to market, while protecting the health and safety of Canadians.

FSDS Goal: Sustainable Food – Innovation and ingenuity contribute to a world-leading agricultural sector and food economy for the benefit of all Canadians.

FSDS Target
Actions supporting the Goal: Sustainable Food.

FSDS Contributing Action
Make healthier food choices easier.

Corresponding Departmental Action
Advance core components of the Healthy Eating Strategy, launched in 2016, which include: improving healthy eating information; strengthening labelling and claims, improving the nutrition quality of foods; and protecting vulnerable populations (e.g. marketing to children).

Starting Point: In 2017, 28.6% of Canadians reported eating fruits and vegetables 5 or more times a day.

Performance Indicator: Percentage of Canadians who report eating fruits and vegetables 5 or more times per day.

Target: 30% by March 31, 2022.

Results Not Met: 25.4% (7,708,900/30,350, 000) of Canadians surveyed as part of the 2020 Canadian Community Health Survey (CCHS) reported eating fruits and vegetables 5 or more times per day.

To support improvements to the food environment, draft criteria have been developed in collaboration with stakeholders to support implementation of the food guide recommendations in post-secondary and recreation settings.

Note: The COVID-19 pandemic had major impacts on the data collection operations for the 2020 CCHS. The low response rate increases the risk of bias, which could affect results. Moreover, the pandemic is an important factor that impacted the food habits of Canadians. Therefore, users are advised to use the CCHS 2020 data with caution.

Contribution to the FSDS Goal and Target
The activities and results under this departmental action directly support the FSDS goal of Sustainable Food resulting in improvements to the overall food environment. By encouraging the uptake of Canada's Food Guide, a key component of the Healthy Eating Strategy, the department continued efforts to raise awareness about healthy eating habits and improved the reach of the

Food Guide recommendations by facilitating their integration across various settings including post-secondary institutions and recreation facilities.

This work links to SDG 2: Zero Hunger and targets 2.1 and 2.2 and SDG 3: Good Health and Well-Being.

FSDS Target
Actions supporting the Goal: Sustainable Food.

FSDS Contributing Action
Make healthier food choices easier.

Corresponding Departmental Action
Advance core components of the Healthy Eating Strategy, launched in 2016, which include: improving healthy eating information; strengthening labelling and claims, improving the nutrition quality of foods; and protecting vulnerable populations (e.g. marketing to children).

Starting Point: Baseline will be calculated using statistical analysis of the 2015 CCHS dietary intake data and food composition data (Canadian Nutrient File and food label information).

Performance Indicator: Percentage of Canadians who have trans fat intakes below 1% total energy intake.

Target: ≥90% by December 31, 2022.

Results to be Achieved: Reporting on trans fat intakes is now targeted for March 31, 2025 following statistical analysis of the CCHS intake data and food consumption data.

Given that the target was met for the large majority of Canadians (96.9%) at baseline (see below), more time is needed to see additional improvement.

Note: The baseline was calculated in 2020-21 from the analysis of the 2015 CCHS dietary intake data and food composition data, which showed that 96.9% (19, 053/19, 670) of Canadians met the World Health Organization recommendations of trans fat intakes below 1% total energy intake.

Contribution to the FSDS Goal and Target
The activities and results under this departmental action directly support the FSDS goal of Sustainable Food resulting in improvements to the overall food environment. By encouraging the uptake of Canada's Food Guide, a key component of the Healthy Eating Strategy, the department continued efforts to raise awareness about healthy eating habits and improved the reach of the Food Guide recommendations by facilitating their integration across various settings including post-secondary institutions and recreation facilities.

This work links to SDG 2: Zero Hunger and targets 2.1 and 2.2 and SDG 3: Good Health and Well-Being.

FSDS Target
Actions supporting the Goal: Sustainable Food.

FSDS Contributing Action
Use legislation and regulations to ensure safe food.

Corresponding Departmental Action
Re-design food regulations to reduce impediments that prevent industry from bringing innovative products to market (e.g. supplemented foods and foods that use new processes and technologies), while protecting the health and safety of Canadians.

Starting Point: In 2018-19, 100% of high-risk food safety and nutrition issues generated a regulatory or non-regulatory response (i.e., guidance documents, national strategies, regulatory amendments).

Performance Indicator: Percentage of high-risk food safety and nutrition issues which generate a regulatory or non-regulatory response.

Target: 100% by March 31, 2022 (annual).

Results Met: In 2021-22, 100% (12/12) of high-risk food safety and nutrition issues generated a regulatory or non-regulatory response.

For example, Health Canada introduced an Interim Policy in March 2022, to help address shortages of infant formulas, human milk fortifiers, and dietary products for vulnerable populations in Canada, including infants and children, that was caused by the closure of a manufacturing facility in the United States.

Contribution to the FSDS Goal and Target
The activities and results under this departmental action directly support the FSDS goal of Sustainable Food. In implementing food safety and nutritional quality regulations and standards for all foods sold in Canada under the authority of the Food and Drugs Act and Regulations, Health Canada responds to emerging science and conducts pre-market safety assessments to ensure that decisions taken by the department protect the health and safety of Canadians.

This work links to SDG 2: Zero Hunger and target 2.1.

FSDS Target
Actions supporting the Goal: Sustainable Food.

FSDS Contributing Action
Use legislation and regulations to ensure safe food.

Corresponding Departmental Action
Re-design food regulations to reduce impediments that prevent industry from bringing innovative products to market (e.g. supplemented foods and foods that use new processes and technologies), while protecting the health and safety of Canadians.

Starting Point: Baseline related to the impediments will be developed after the first year of data collection (by 2020-21).

Performance Indicator:

Percentage of stakeholders who indicate the proposed regulations published in Canada Gazette, Part I, reduce impediments.

Target: 60% by March 31, 2022 (annual).

Results Not Met: In 2021-22, 51% (42/82) of the written submissions received through Canada Gazette, Part I consultation expressed support for the introduction of new measures in the regulatory framework for supplemented foods. Other comments provided technical feedback that will inform the final regulations.

Contribution to the FSDS Goal and Target
The activities and results under this departmental action directly support the FSDS goal of Sustainable Food. In implementing food safety and nutritional quality regulations and standards for all foods sold in Canada under the authority of the Food and Drugs Act and Regulations, Health Canada responds to emerging science and conducts pre-market safety assessments to ensure that decisions taken by the department protect the health and safety of Canadians.

This work links to SDG 2: Zero Hunger and target 2.1.

Context: Safe and Healthy Communities

It is important that Canadians enjoy a clean, safe environment that contributes to their health and well-being. Among other things, this means reducing pollution to improve air quality and mitigating potential human and environmental impacts of exposure to contaminants and harmful substances.

Health Canada continues to play an extensive role in advancing work under this goal. Science and outreach, including new information on the health burden of air pollution, has helped to increase knowledge and raise awareness related to the health impacts of air pollution, through the Canadian Ambient Air Quality Standards, the Air Quality Benefits Assessment Tool, and the Air Quality Health Index.

As part of its commitment to delivering the Chemicals Management Plan, Health Canada continued to assess substances for potential health and environmental impacts and developed risk management actions to mitigate those risks.

In addition, ongoing work related to the Canadian Health Measures Survey and the Northern Contaminants Program has provided invaluable data and research for scientists, health and environment officials, and communities to help inform decisions and develop policies aimed at reducing exposure to chemicals and contaminants.

Finally, the department provided scientific advice on health risks related to contaminants exposure to inform federal contaminated sites clean-up, and to reduce and mitigate future potential human health effects by providing expertise on impact assessments for proposed major projects.

FSDS Goal: Safe and Healthy Communities – All Canadians live in clean, sustainable communities that contribute to their health and well-being.

FSDS Target
Increase the percentage of Canadians living in areas where air quality standards are achieved from 70% in 2015 to 85% in 2030.

FSDS Contributing Action
Better understand air pollutants and harmful substances.

Corresponding Departmental Action
Conduct research; develop, publish, and/or distribute health risk assessments, guidance documents, guidelines and standards; analyze health benefits; and conduct outreach related to the health impacts of outdoor air pollution and actions to improve outdoor air quality.

Starting Point: In 2019-20, Health Canada's Air Quality Program published and/or distributed externally 67% of planned federal air quality health risk assessments, guidance documents, guidelines and standards related to outdoor air quality.

Performance Indicator: Percentage of planned federal air quality health assessments, guidance documents, guidelines and standards related to outdoor air quality published or distributed externally.

Target: 100% (annual).

Results Not Met: In 2021-22, 90% (9/10) of planned federal air quality health risk assessments, guidance documents, guidelines and standards related to outdoor air quality were published and/or distributed externally by Health Canada's Air Quality Program.

Contribution to the FSDS Goal and Target
The activities and results under this departmental action directly support the FSDS target to increase the percentage of Canadians living in areas where air quality standards are achieved. Health Canada's science and outreach activities help to increase knowledge and raise awareness related to the health impacts of outdoor air pollution, and help inform actions to improve air quality.

This work links to SDG 3: Good Health and Well-Being and targets 3.4 and 3.9; SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities and target 11.6; and SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production and target 12.4.

FSDS Target
Increase the percentage of Canadians living in areas where air quality standards are achieved from 70% in 2015 to 85% in 2030.

FSDS Contributing Action
Better understand air pollutants and harmful substances.

Corresponding Departmental Action
Conduct research; develop, publish, and/or distribute health risk assessments, guidance documents, guidelines and standards; analyze health benefits; and conduct outreach related to the health impacts of outdoor air pollution and actions to improve outdoor air quality.

Starting Point: In 2019-20, 100% of planned knowledge transfer activities were completed related to the health impacts of air pollution.

Performance Indicator: Percentage of planned knowledge transfer activities related to health impacts of air pollution.

Target: 100% (annual).

Results Met: In 2021-22, 100% (48/48) of planned knowledge transfer activities related to the health impacts of air pollution were completed. Examples of activities include peer-reviewed publications, virtual conference presentations, and the ongoing provision of scientific evidence-based advice to inform program decision-making.

Contribution to the FSDS Goal and Target
The activities and results under this departmental action directly support the FSDS target to increase the percentage of Canadians living in areas where air quality standards are achieved. Health Canada's science and outreach activities help to increase knowledge and raise awareness related to the health impacts of outdoor air pollution, and help inform actions to improve air quality.

This work links to SDG 3: Good Health and Well-Being and targets 3.4 and 3.9; SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities and target 11.6; and SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production and target 12.4.

FSDS Target
Increase the percentage of Canadians living in areas where air quality standards are achieved from 70% in 2015 to 85% in 2030.

FSDS Contributing Action
Better understand air pollutants and harmful substances.

Corresponding Departmental Action
Conduct research; develop, publish, and/or distribute health risk assessments, guidance documents, guidelines and standards; analyze health benefits; and conduct outreach related to the health impacts of outdoor air pollution and actions to improve outdoor air quality.

Starting Point: In 2017-18, 42 deaths per 100,000 population were attributed to air pollution in Canada.

Performance Indicator: Number of deaths per year attributable to air pollution (per 100,000). The indicator is calculated every 5 years.

Target: Decrease from previous reporting period by March 31, 2023.

Results to be Achieved: 42 per 100,000 population (2020-21 result). As per the data collection frequency, new results will be available in 2023-24.

Contribution to the FSDS Goal and Target
The activities and results under this departmental action directly support the FSDS target to increase the percentage of Canadians living in areas where air quality standards are achieved. Health Canada's science and outreach activities help to increase knowledge and raise awareness related to the health impacts of outdoor air pollution, and help inform actions to improve air quality.

This work links to SDG 3: Good Health and Well-Being and targets 3.4 and 3.9; SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities and target 11.6; and SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production and target 12.4.

FSDS Target
Increase the percentage of Canadians living in areas where air quality standards are achieved from 70% in 2015 to 85% in 2030.

FSDS Contributing Action
Better understand air pollutants and harmful substances.

Corresponding Departmental Action
Assess proposed actions to reduce air pollution for health benefits using the Air Quality Benefits Assessment Tool (AQBAT).

Starting Point: In 2019-20, 100% of requested analyses were provided within the established deadline.

Performance Indicator: Percentage of requested foundational information products delivered within the established deadline to support evidence-based decision making.

Target: 100% (annual).

Results Met: In 2021-22, 100% (1/1) of the requested foundational information products were delivered within established timelines.

This year, Health Canada conducted a health impact assessment as part of an initiative to characterize health burden associated with air pollution in the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area.

Contribution to the FSDS Goal and Target
Health Canada uses the AQBAT, a computer model that estimates the human health impacts from changes in air quality, to calculate the potential health benefits to be gained from actions meant to improve air quality. Timely provision of this foundational information supports evidence-based decision-making, such as the development of regulations, which contributes to the FSDS target of increasing the percentage of Canadians living in areas where the air quality standards are achieved.

This work links to SDG 3: Good Health and Well-Being and targets 3.4 and 3.9; SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities and target 11.6; and SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production and target 12.4.

FSDS Target
Increase the percentage of Canadians living in areas where air quality standards are achieved from 70% in 2015 to 85% in 2030.

FSDS Contributing Action
Work with partners on outdoor air quality and chemicals management.

Corresponding Departmental Action
Work collaboratively with provinces, territories and stakeholders to develop and regularly update the Canadian Ambient Air Quality Standards.

Starting Point: The Canadian Ambient Air Quality Standards (CAAQS) for ozone was published in the Canada Gazette, Part I as planned in June 2019. This new CAAQS will come into effect starting in 2025. The review of the CAAQS for fine particulate matter is underway, and is targeted for completion in 2022-23.

Performance Indicator: Percentage of CAAQS reviewed and updated.

Target: 100% of planned CAAQS (i.e., for PM2.5 and ozone) by December 31, 2022.

Results to be Achieved: Updates to the CAAQS for PM2.5 are now targeted for December 31, 2023.

Contribution to the FSDS Goal and Target
The CAAQS are outdoor air quality targets based on health and environmental objectives. Their purpose is to drive actions to reduce emissions of harmful air pollutants and ultimately improve air quality across Canada. Collaborative efforts to regularly update air quality standards, directly supports the FSDS target of increasing the percentage of Canadians living in areas where the air quality standards are achieved.

This work links to SDG 3: Good Health and Well-Being and targets 3.4 and 3.9; SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities and target 11.6; and SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production and target 12.4.

FSDS Target
By 2022, take risk management actions in a timely manner for 100% of substances found to be a risk to the environment or human health.

FSDS Contributing Action
Use legislation and regulations to address outdoor air pollutant emissions and harmful substances.

Corresponding Departmental Action
Assess and manage, where appropriate, the potential health risks associated with chemical substances, including pesticides.

Starting Point: In 2019-20, 73% of existing substances were assessed within targeted timelines.

Performance Indicator: Percentage of substances assessed within targeted timelines (existing substances).

Target: 100%* (annual).

* Assessing the risks to human health and the environment is complex, as it often includes data gathering and working with other jurisdictions and stakeholders. As a result, delays in the development of the risk assessment documents may occur. The program will continue to streamline processes and look for further efficiencies in order to continuously strive towards the target of 100%.

Results Met: In 2021-22, 100% (192/192) of existing substances were assessed within targeted timelines.

Contribution to the FSDS Goal and Target
The Chemicals Management Plan (CMP) is a Government of Canada initiative aimed at reducing the risks posed by chemicals to Canadians and their environment. Substances are assessed for potential health and environmental impacts and risk management actions are developed to mitigate the risks of harmful substances. This work directly supports the FSDS target of taking timely risk management action on chemical substances found to be a risk to the environment or human health.

This work links to SDG: 3 Good Health and Well-Being and targets 3.4 and 3.9; and SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production and target 12.4.

FSDS Target
By 2022, take risk management actions in a timely manner for 100% of substances found to be a risk to the environment or human health.

FSDS Contributing Action
Use legislation and regulations to address outdoor air pollutant emissions and harmful substances.

Corresponding Departmental Action
Assess and manage, where appropriate, the potential health risks associated with chemical substances, including pesticides.

Starting Point: In 2019-20, 100% of new substances were assessed within targeted timelines.

Performance Indicator: Percentage of substances assessed within targeted timelines (new substances).

Target: 100% (annual).

Results Met: In 2021-22,100% (373/373) of new substances were assessed within targeted timelines.

Contribution to the FSDS Goal and Target
The Chemicals Management Plan (CMP) is a Government of Canada initiative aimed at reducing the risks posed by chemicals to Canadians and their environment. Substances are assessed for potential health and environmental impacts and risk management actions are developed to mitigate the risks of harmful substances. This work directly supports the FSDS target of taking timely risk management action on chemical substances found to be a risk to the environment or human health.

This work links to SDG: 3 Good Health and Well-Being and targets 3.4 and 3.9; and SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production and target 12.4.

FSDS Target
By 2022, take risk management actions in a timely manner for 100% of substances found to be a risk to the environment or human health.

FSDS Contributing Action
Use legislation and regulations to address outdoor air pollutant emissions and harmful substances.

Corresponding Departmental Action
Assess and manage, where appropriate, the potential health risks associated with chemical substances, including pesticides.

Starting Point: In 2019-20, 100% of risk management actions were completed within targeted timelines.

Performance Indicator: Percentage of actions taken in a timely manner to protect the health of Canadians from substances found to be a risk to human health.

Target: 100%* (annual).

* Managing risks to human health from substances is complex, as it often includes research, consultations with stakeholders and analyzing socio-economic impacts. As a result, delays in the development of the proposed and final risk management actions may occur. The program will continue to streamline processes and look for further efficiencies in order to continuously strive towards the target of 100%.

Results Met: In 2021-22, 100% (6/6) of risk management actions were completed within targeted timelines.

Contribution to the FSDS Goal and Target
The Chemicals Management Plan (CMP) is a Government of Canada initiative aimed at reducing the risks posed by chemicals to Canadians and their environment. Substances are assessed for potential health and environmental impacts and risk management actions are developed to mitigate the risks of harmful substances. This work directly supports the FSDS target of taking timely risk management action on chemical substances found to be a risk to the environment or human health.

This work links to SDG: 3 Good Health and Well-Being and targets 3.4 and 3.9; and SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production and target 12.4.

FSDS Target
By 2022, take risk management actions in a timely manner for 100% of substances found to be a risk to the environment or human health.

FSDS Contributing Action
Use legislation and regulations to address outdoor air pollutant emissions and harmful substances.

Corresponding Departmental Action
Assess and manage, where appropriate, the potential health risks associated with chemical substances, including pesticides.

Starting Point: In 2019-20, 96% of post-market decisions were implemented within specified timelines to protect the health of Canadians from pesticides found to be a risk to human health and the environment.

Performance Indicator: Percentage of post-market decisions implemented within the specified timelines to protect the health of Canadians from pesticides found to be a risk to human health and the environment.

Target: 90% or higher (annual).

Results Met: In 2021-22, 98.5% (209/212) of post-market decisions were implemented within specified timelines to protect the health of Canadians from pesticides found to be a risk to human health and the environment.

Contribution to the FSDS Goal and Target
The activities and results under this departmental action directly support the FSDS target to take risk management actions in a timely manner for substances found to be a risk to the environment or to human health. This is done by re-evaluating older pesticides against current health and environmental standards to determine whether they are still acceptable. When a pesticide is found to have unacceptable risk, Health Canada is responsible for taking action to protect human health and the environment by having post-market regulatory decisions implemented according to specified timelines (e.g. cancellation of products, label changes, and voluntary withdrawals). For more information, see the Policy on Cancellations and Amendments Following Re-evaluation and Special Review.

This work links to SDG: 3 Good Health and Well-Being and target 3.9; and SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production and target 12.4.

FSDS Target
Actions supporting the Goal: Safe and Healthy Communities.

FSDS Contributing Action
Provide information to inform action and decision-making.

Corresponding Departmental Action
Develop, publish and/or distribute health risk assessments, guidance documents, guidelines and standards, and conduct outreach related to the health impacts of indoor air pollution and actions to improve indoor air quality, including information to inform action on indoor radon exposure.

Starting Point: In 2019-20, Health Canada published and/or distributed 57% of planned federal air quality health risk assessments, guidance documents, guidelines and standards related to indoor air quality.

Performance Indicator: Percentage of planned federal air quality health assessments, guidance documents, guidelines, and standards related to indoor air quality published or distributed externally.

Target: 100% (annual).

Results Met: In 2021-22, 100% (4/4) of planned federal air quality health assessments, guidance documents, guidelines, and standards related to indoor air quality were published or distributed externally.

Contribution to the FSDS Goal and Target
Health Canada provides information to inform actions by governments, public health professionals, building professionals and individual Canadians to reduce exposure to indoor air pollutants. For example, Health Canada works with partners to raise awareness and inform Canadians about reducing their risk from radon exposure. By raising awareness and informing risk mitigation activities, Health Canada supports this FSDS goal of safe and healthy communities.

This work links to SDG: 3 Good Health and Well-Being and targets 3.4 and 3.9.

FSDS Target
Actions supporting the Goal: Safe and Healthy Communities.

FSDS Contributing Action
Provide information to inform action and decision-making.

Corresponding Departmental Action
Develop, publish and/or distribute health risk assessments, guidance documents, guidelines and standards, and conduct outreach related to the health impacts of indoor air pollution and actions to improve indoor air quality, including information to inform action on indoor radon exposure.

Starting Point: The 2017 Households and the Environment Survey showed that 63% of Canadian surveyed were knowledgeable about radon, an increase of 10% since the 2013 survey. Results of the 2019 Households and the Environment Survey will be made available in 2021 (reports every two years).

Performance Indicator: Percentage of Canadians surveyed who are knowledgeable about radon.

Target: 65% by March 31, 2023.

Results to be Achieved: Results of the 2021 Households and the Environment Survey will be made available in 2023 (reports every two years).

The 2019 Households and the Environment Survey showed that 63% of Canadians surveyed were knowledgeable about radon. Results of the 2021 Households and the Environment Survey will be made available in 2023 (reports every two years).

Contribution to the FSDS Goal and Target
Health Canada provides information to inform actions by governments, public health professionals, building professionals and individual Canadians to reduce exposure to indoor air pollutants. For example, Health Canada works with partners to raise awareness and inform Canadians about reducing their risk from radon exposure. By raising awareness and informing risk mitigation activities, Health Canada supports this FSDS goal of safe and healthy communities.

This work links to SDG: 3 Good Health and Well-Being and targets 3.4 and 3.9.

FSDS Target
Actions supporting the Goal: Safe and Healthy Communities.

FSDS Contributing Action
Provide information to inform action and decision-making.

Corresponding Departmental Action
Develop, publish and/or distribute health risk assessments, guidance documents, guidelines and standards, and conduct outreach related to the health impacts of indoor air pollution and actions to improve indoor air quality, including information to inform action on indoor radon exposure.

Starting Point: The 2017 Households and the Environment Survey showed that 7% of Canadian homeowners surveyed had tested their homes for radon. Results of the 2019 Households and the Environment Survey will be made available in 2021 (reports every two years).

Performance Indicator: Percentage of Canadian homeowners surveyed who have tested their homes for radon.

Target: 10% by March 31, 2026.

Results to be Achieved: Results of the 2021 Households and the Environment Survey will be made available in 2023 (reports every two years).

The 2019 Households and the Environment Survey showed that 6% of Canadian homeowners surveyed had tested their homes for radon. Results of the 2021 Households and the Environment Survey will be made available in 2023 (reports every two years).

Contribution to the FSDS Goal and Target
Health Canada provides information to inform actions by governments, public health professionals, building professionals and individual Canadians to reduce exposure to indoor air pollutants. For example, Health Canada works with partners to raise awareness and inform Canadians about reducing their risk from radon exposure. By raising awareness and informing risk mitigation activities, Health Canada supports this FSDS goal of safe and healthy communities.

This work links to SDG: 3 Good Health and Well-Being and targets 3.4 and 3.9.

FSDS Target
Actions supporting the Goal: Safe and Healthy Communities.

FSDS Contributing Action
Provide information to inform action and decision-making.

Corresponding Departmental Action
Provide Canadians with access to information that will enable them to take protective action to reduce impacts from outdoor air pollution

Starting Point: In 2019-20, 1,381,564 sensitive individuals* were reached by Air Quality Health Index (AQHI) risk communications.

Performance Indicator: Number of sensitive individuals* reached by AQHI risk communications

* 'Sensitive individuals' are those who are more vulnerable to the health impacts of air pollution.

Target: 4,000,000 by March 31, 2026.

Results to be Achieved: In 2021-22, AQHI risk communications reached 1,367,060 sensitive individuals.

Contribution to the FSDS Goal and Target
The AQHI helps Canadians make decisions about how to protect their health by limiting short-term exposure to air pollution and adjusting their activity levels when there are increased levels of air pollution. By providing information to Canadians about how to protect their health during air quality levels associated with low, moderate, high, and very high health risk, this work supports actions to protect health and therefore contributes to this FSDS goal of safe and healthy communities.

This work links to SDG 3: Good Health and Well-Being and targets 3.4 and 3.9; SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities and target 11.6; and SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production and target 12.4.

FSDS Target
Actions supporting the Goal: Safe and Healthy Communities.

FSDS Contributing Action
Better understand air pollutants and harmful substances.

Corresponding Departmental Action
Conduct research, monitoring, and surveillance (including biomonitoring), in order to better understand and manage the health risks of harmful substances.

Starting Point: The Fifth Report on Human Biomonitoring of Environmental Chemicals in Canada was released in 2019.

Performance Indicator: Release of the Sixth Report on Human Biomonitoring of Environmental Chemicals in Canada.

Target: Released by March 2022.

Results Met: In 2021-22, the Sixth Report on Human Biomonitoring of Environmental Chemicals in Canada was released and made available through the Open Government portal.

Contribution to the FSDS Goal and Target
The Sixth Report on Human Biomonitoring of Environmental Chemicals in Canada presents national biomonitoring data on the Canadian population's exposure to chemicals as part of the Canadian Health Measures Survey (CHMS). This information will be used to assess exposure to environmental chemicals, and to develop and assess policies aimed at reducing exposure to toxic chemicals, which supports this FSDS goal of safe and healthy communities.

This work links to SDG 3: Good Health and Well-Being and targets 3.4 and 3.9; and SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production and target 12.4.

FSDS Target
Actions supporting the Goal: Safe and Healthy Communities.

FSDS Contributing Action
Better understand air pollutants and harmful substances.

Corresponding Departmental Action
Provide funding for research studies to monitor contaminant levels in wildlife and people in the Canadian North

Starting Point: In 2019-20, the Northern Contaminants Program (NCP) provided funding for four research studies.

Performance Indicator: Provide funding for research studies under the NCP.

Target: Funding provided by March 2022.

Results Met: In 2021-22, funding was provided for seven research studies that monitor contaminant levels in wildlife and people in the Canadian North as part of the Northern Contaminants Program (NCP).

These projects address exposure to contaminants, including through consumption of country foods and links to nutritional status in multiple northern regions (Yukon, Northwest Territories, Nunavik), as well as the development and evaluation of health communication tools.

Contribution to the FSDS Goal and Target
The Northern Contaminants Program (NCP) funds research aimed at addressing contaminants of concern in Canada's North. Specifically, the research findings provide data to inform risk assessment and risk management of substances, and are used to influence the development and implementation of international agreements to reduce and/or eliminate the production, use and release of contaminating substances into the environment. The findings of this research support this FSDS goal of safe and healthy communities, in this case in Canada's North.

This work links to SDG 3: Good Health and Well-Being and targets 3.4 and 3.9; and SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production and target 12.4.

FSDS Target
Actions supporting the Goal: Safe and Healthy Communities.

FSDS Contributing Action
Prevent environmental emergencies or mitigate their impacts.

Corresponding Departmental Action
Collaborate with other federal partners and provincial authorities to strengthen nuclear emergency preparedness and response.

Starting Point: In 2019-20, Canada participated in 100% of planned nuclear emergency preparedness drills and exercises and all defined objectives were met.

Performance Indicator: Percentage of planned nuclear emergency preparedness drills and exercises completed.

Target: 100% (annual).

Results Not Met: In 2021-22, Health Canada participated in 93% (13/14) of planned nuclear emergency preparedness drills and exercises. The remaining exercise has been rescheduled to fall 2022.

Contribution to the FSDS Goal and Target
Health Canada helps to ensure that Canada is prepared to manage the federal response to a nuclear emergency in order to minimize the impact on public health, safety, property and the environment. Completion of emergency preparedness drills and exercises helps to identify issues to be resolved prior to a real emergency situation, and thereby contributes to this FSDS goal of safe and healthy communities.

This work links to SDG 3: Good Health and Well-Being and target 3.9.

FSDS Target
Actions supporting the Goal: Safe and Healthy Communities.

FSDS Contributing Action
Demonstrate leadership on assessing and remediating contaminated sites.

Corresponding Departmental Action
Provide human health advice to other federal departments that are responsible for assessing and remediating contaminated sites.

Starting Point: This indicator is new for 2021-22. However, in 2019-20, Health Canada responded to requests from other federal departments for human health advice related to contaminated sites 95% of the time within the prescribed timelines.

Performance Indicator: Percentage of times the review of site classification and the review of site-specific scientific and technical documents are completed within the established service standards.

Target: 90% (March 31st of each year starting in 2022).

Results Met: In 2021-22, 100% (138/138) of site classification and site-specific reviews were completed within the established service standards.

Contribution to the FSDS Goal and Target
Under the Federal Contaminated Sites Action Plan (FCSAP), Health Canada serves as an Expert Support Department by providing guidance, guideline development, training and advice on human health issues as they relate to the risk associated from exposure to various contaminants found on federal lands, in the air, water, soil, sediment, dust and country foods. The timely completion of this advice supports the remediation of contaminated sites, and thereby contributes to this FSDS goal of safe and healthy communities.

This work links to SDG 3: Good Health and Well-Being and targets 3.4 and 3.9; SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation and target 6.3; and SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production and target 12.4.

FSDS Target
Actions supporting the Goal: Safe and Healthy Communities.

FSDS Contributing Action
Safe and Healthy Communities – Other.

Corresponding Departmental Action
Assess the extent to which regulatory decisions and actions are keeping pesticides at acceptable limits in order to protect the health of Canadians and the environment from risks associated with the use of pesticides.

Starting Point: Between 2017 and 2019, 67% of final post-market review decisions were completed within specified timelines in the published re-evaluation and special review work plan.

Performance Indicator: Percentage of final post-market review decisions that are completed within specified timelines in the published re-evaluation and special review work plan.

Target: 80% or higher (annual).

Results Not Met: In 2021-22, 53% (8/15) of final post-market review decisions were completed within specified timelines identified in the published re-evaluation and special review work plan.

Contribution to the FSDS Goal and Target
The activities and results under this departmental action directly support the FSDS target to take risk management actions in a timely manner for substances found to be a risk to the environment or to human health. Health Canada reviews the scientific data and works with partner organizations to measure the effectiveness of regulatory decisions in limiting and/or reducing exposure to risks associated with pesticides, allowing Health Canada to contribute to safe-guarding the health and well-being of Canadians.

This work links to SDG: 3 Good Health and Well-Being and target 3.9; and SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production and target 12.4.

FSDS Target
Actions supporting the Goal: Safe and Healthy Communities.

FSDS Contributing Action
Safe and Healthy Communities – Other.

Corresponding Departmental Action
Provide health expertise to support the strategic assessment of proposed major projects (such as pipelines and mines).

Starting Point: These are new indicators, given that the Impact Assessment Act came into force in August 2019. The starting points will be established in 2020-21.

Performance Indicator: Percentage of requests for expertise and advice that are responded to within established timelines.

Target: 100% (annual).

Results Met: In 2021-22, 100% (151/151) of requests for expertise and advice were answered within established timelines.

Contribution to the FSDS Goal and Target
Health Canada provides expertise and advice to help prevent, reduce and mitigate the potential human health-related impacts of proposed major projects, including project-related exposure to contaminants and the impacts of other changes to the environment on human health. The timely provision of this information and its incorporation into the planning and monitoring of major projects, supports this FSDS goal of safe and healthy communities.

This work links to SDG 3: Good Health and Well-Being and target 3.9; and SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production and target 12.2.

FSDS Target
Actions supporting the Goal: Safe and Healthy Communities.

FSDS Contributing Action
Safe and Healthy Communities – Other.

Corresponding Departmental Action
Provide health expertise to support the strategic assessment of proposed major projects (such as pipelines and mines).

Performance Indicator: Percentage of early planning, impact assessment and/or follow-up and monitoring influenced by Health Canada expertise.

Target: 90% (annual).

Results Met: In 2021-22, 100% (8/8) of projects reviewed were influenced by Health Canada expertise during the early planning, impact assessment and/or follow-up and monitoring phases.

Contribution to the FSDS Goal and Target
Health Canada provides expertise and advice to help prevent, reduce and mitigate the potential human health-related impacts of proposed major projects, including project-related exposure to contaminants and the impacts of other changes to the environment on human health. The timely provision of this information and its incorporation into the planning and monitoring of major projects, supports this FSDS goal of safe and healthy communities.

This work links to SDG 3: Good Health and Well-Being and target 3.9; and SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production and target 12.2.

4. Report on Integrating Sustainable Development

In 2021-22, Health Canada continued to ensure that FSDS goals and targets were considered as part of the Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) process. In keeping with the requirements of the Cabinet Directive on the Environmental Assessment of Policy, Plan and Program Proposals (Cabinet Directive), and the Health Canada Policy on Strategic Environmental Assessment, Health Canada completed assessments on 49 proposals (Memoranda to Cabinet, Treasury Board submissions and regulatory proposals). The SEA process was also followed for all Health Canada Budget 2022 proposals. Important environmental effects were not identified as part of the Preliminary Scans; therefore, Detailed Analyses were not required. However, during the 2021-22reporting cycle, Health Canada co-led two proposals that required contributions to the development of a Detailed Analysis and subsequent public statement. Health Canada continued to report SEA compliance results to senior management and the Assistant Deputy Minister Sustainable Development Champion on a quarterly basis. In 2021-22, 100% of proposals applied the Cabinet Directive.

Health Canada provided annual training to employees on the SEA process and requirements to help maintain compliance with the Cabinet Directive and to reinforce the importance of SEA as a tool for incorporating environmental considerations into the decision-making process. Employees were encouraged to include SEA training as part of their annual learning plan. Training is offered in two formats: one is self-paced, web-based training that is available to employees on an ongoing basis throughout the year; the second format is in-class, half-day sessions. As a result of public health measures in place in response to COVID-19, the in-class training was adjusted and offered virtually using a platform that allowed for breakout groups and opened up participation to employees from Health Canada's regional offices. In addition, Health Canada updated the departmental SEA form to facilitate reporting and improve accessibility.

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