Performance Report on Sustainable Development April 1, 2008 to March 31, 2009
2.0 Meeting Legal Requirements
The CRA is subject to a few federal legislation and regulations designed to promote SD and protect the natural environment. The Agency, however has limited exposure to these regulations and legislations. In cases where they do not apply directly to the Agency, we take a due diligent approach to managing the materials and systems in question as a best practice. The following section outlines how the CRA managed its legal obligations in 2008-2009.
2.1 Alternative Fuels Act
The Act requires that 75% of vehicle acquisitions have alternative transportation fuels (ATF) capability, where cost effective and operationally feasible. The CRA purchased 100% of ATF capable vehicles where operational requirements permitted.
2.2 Auditor General Act (1995)
In addition to the tabling of SD strategies, the Auditor General Act (1995) also requires that Ministers report annually on SD performance. We reported on SD performance for 2007-2008 through the CRA Annual Report. A detailed annual performance report on SD was also published on the CRA Internet Website. This Act was superseded by the Federal Sustainable Development Act in June 2008.
2.3 Canadian Environmental Protection Act (CEPA 1999)
2.3.1 Federal Halocarbon Regulations
The regulations outline specific requirements for managing halocarbon-containing systems from purchasing of the systems through to disposal. The regulations also prohibit the release of halocarbons into the environment. As of March 2009, the CRA had halocarbon inventories in 95% (128/135) of facilities, which include over 1,380 halocarbon-containing systems [Footnote 4]. No halocarbon releases were reported in 2008-2009.
2.3.2 Registration of Storage Tank Systems for Petroleum Products and Allied Petroleum Products on Federal Lands and Aboriginal Lands Regulations
These Regulations require that all storage tank systems be registered and maintained according to regulations. The CRA owns and manages nine storage tanks systems that are used to store fuel for back-up electricity generators. Work is ongoing to ensure continued compliance with the regulations.
2.4 Conclusion
In 2008-2009 the CRA maintained compliance with all applicable environmental legislation and regulations. In keeping with the principle of continuous improvement, further steps are being taken to strengthen our systems and practices to ensure the CRA continues to meet its legal obligations vis-à-vis the environment.
Footnotes
[Footnote 4]
At the CRA, Halocarbon-containing equipment consists mainly of refrigeration and air-conditioning systems.
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