Canada’s National Report on Black Carbon and Methane

Canada’s Fourth Report to the Arctic Council

Executive summary

Addressing emissions of black carbon and methane is a priority for Canada. Reducing these pollutants is a key part of Canada’s plan to mitigate climate change. The IPCC’s Special Report on Global Warming of 1.5 ^oC shows that action on these pollutants is key to keeping the Paris Agreement goals in reach.

The Arctic is warming at three times the global average rate. Studies show that cutting black carbon emissions is the most powerful action to slow near-term warming in the Arctic. Cutting methane emissions is also essential to slow Arctic warming.

Arctic States agreed to a framework for action during Canada’s Chairship of the Arctic Council in 2015. States committed to take ambitious action to reduce black carbon and methane emissions. Arctic States agreed to an aspirational, collective goal to reduce black carbon by 25-33% below 2013 levels by 2025. Canada has already achieved its share of this goal by reducing emissions by 31% as of 2022.

This report satisfies a reporting commitment to:

• summarize emission trends and projections for black carbon and methane
• outline Canada’s current and planned actions to reduce emissions

Actions outlined in this report will help deliver on Canada’s commitment to fight climate change and improve air quality.

Emissions, success stories, and ongoing efforts

Black carbon

In 2022, an estimated 26 kilotonnes (kt) of black carbon were emitted in Canada. Off-road engines were the largest source of black carbon (37%), followed by stationary combustion sources (31%). Total black carbon emissions were 31% below 2013 levels in 2022, largely due to reduced diesel engine emissions. Modelling indicates that Canada’s black carbon emissions will continue decreasing. Canada expects to exceed its share of the collective goal by reaching 38% below 2013 levels by 2025.

This report highlights three success stories in Canadian black carbon action:

• regulations for new off-road diesel engines that limit particulate matter (including black carbon) and other pollutants
• regulations and incentives for new zero-emission vehicles that are shifting the Canadian vehicle fleet away from fossil fuels
• reducing reliance on diesel generators by supporting remote communities shifting to clean energy sources

Other ongoing efforts to reduce black carbon emissions outlined in the report include:

• exploring options to further reduce emissions from home firewood burning
• supporting action to implement the shipping Emission Control Area in Canada’s Arctic waters
• advancing strategies to mitigate the impact of wildfire smoke on human and environmental health

Methane

In 2022, an estimated 4200 kt of methane were emitted in Canada. The largest sources were:

• venting and flaring in the oil and gas industry (33%)
• livestock (23%)
• landfills (17%)

Canada’s methane emissions decreased by 22% from 2005 to 2022, largely from lower fugitive oil and gas emissions.

Canada was one of the first countries to sign the Global Methane Pledge. The Pledge aims to reduce global methane emissions by at least 30% from 2020 levels by 2030. Current and planned measures have Canada on track to reduce emissions by more than 35% by 2030.

This report highlights three success stories in Canadian methane action:

• regulations to help achieve Canada’s goal to reduce oil and gas emissions by 75% from 2012 levels by 2030
• innovation in methane measurement and reduction led by government scientists, leading academics and Canadian companies
• Canada’s strong international leadership on methane through leadership in various fora and financing for global methane reduction projects

Other ongoing methane reduction efforts outlined in the report include:

• proposed landfill methane regulations
• efforts to decrease waste and divert organic waste from landfills
• advancing and scaling technologies and practices that reduce methane from agriculture

1. Introduction

Canada is pleased to provide its fourth National Report on Black Carbon and Methane. This report summarizes emissions trends and projections for black carbon and methane, and outlines Canada’s current and planned actions to reduce emissions. Submission of this report to the Arctic Council satisfies a reporting commitment made under the Framework for Action on Enhanced Black Carbon and Methane Emissions Reductions, agreed to by Arctic States in 2015 during the Canadian chairmanship of the Arctic Council.

Addressing emissions of black carbon and methane across the economy is a priority for Canada. Taking action to reduce these and other short-lived climate pollutants is an important component of Canada’s plan to mitigate climate change, in support of the Paris Agreement goal to limit global average temperature rise to below 2 °C, and pursue efforts to limit the increase to 1.5 °C. Indeed, modeling from the IPCC’s Special Report on Global Warming of 1.5 °C indicates that action on black carbon and methane is essential to keeping the 1.5 °C goal in reach.

Cutting emissions of black carbon is the most powerful action to slow the pace of near-term warming in the Arctic,^{Footnote 1} a region that is already warming at three times the global average. For this reason, Canada and other Arctic States agreed to collectively reduce emissions of black carbon by 25-33% of 2013 levels by 2025. Since 2015, Canada has had a domestic indicator to track its domestic emissions of black carbon against the collective Arctic Council goal.

Canada is proud to be one of the first signatories of the Global Methane Pledge. The Pledge, which was launched at the 26^th Conference of the Parties (COP26) of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change by the United States and European Union in November 2021, aims to reduce global anthropogenic methane emissions across economic sectors by at least 30% from 2020 levels by 2030. Canada, along with more than 155 other signatory countries, has committed to taking action that will contribute towards this collective effort. Canada released Faster and Further: Canada’s Methane Strategy in September 2022, a plan to reduce methane emissions across the broader Canadian economy consistent with the Global Methane Pledge. Current projections indicate that actions under Canada’s Methane Strategy will achieve a more than 35% reduction in methane emissions below 2020 levels by 2030.

In this report, emission estimates and projections of black carbon are outlined in Chapter 2, followed by methane emissions estimates and projections in Chapter 3. Chapter 4 provides a summary of actions to address black carbon and methane under Canada’s Climate Plan and Methane Strategy. Success stories and ongoing actions in Canadian black carbon and methane reduction are highlighted in Chapter 5. Annexes 1 and 2 provide tabulated historical and projected emissions of black carbon and methane. Annex 3 links more detailed Canadian actions to specific recommendations made by the Arctic Council Expert Group on Black Carbon and Methane in its 2021 Summary of Progress and Recommendations report.

Domestic and international actions outlined in this report will help deliver on the Government of Canada’s commitment to fight climate change and improve air quality. 

2. Black carbon emissions and future projections

Canada produces a black carbon inventory that is submitted to the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE) on an annual basis (since 2015), as committed to under the 2012 amendments to the Gothenburg Protocol of the Convention on Long-Range Transboundary Air Pollution. Canada also submits its black carbon inventory to the Arctic Council as per its commitment to do so under the Arctic Council Framework for Action on Enhanced Black Carbon and Methane Emissions Reductions. The 2024 edition of Canada’s Black Carbon Inventory Report provides black carbon emissions estimates from anthropogenic sources for 2013 to 2022.^{Footnote 2} Black carbon emissions data are available on Canada’s Open Data Portal.

Canada also produces annual projections for black carbon emissions. These projections calculate estimated future emissions based on the expected impacts of current policies and measures to control emissions. The most recent black carbon projections data are published in Canada’s Greenhouse Gas and Air Pollutant Emissions Projections 2023. Data on projected emissions are available for download through the Open Data Portal.

Previous versions of the National Report on Black Carbon and Methane contained emissions data grouped by sector. As of 2024, black carbon emissions reported to the Arctic Council are to follow the UNECE’s Annex I emissions reporting template and the associated Nomenclature for Reporting (NFR) codes generally used for reporting air pollutant emissions internationally, in which emissions are grouped by process and combustion sources. Because of this, processes and sources in the UNECE template may not correspond exactly with similarly named sectors in past National Reports.

2.1 Summary of black carbon emissions and future projections

In 2022, approximately 26 kilotonnes (kt) of black carbon were emitted from anthropogenic sources in Canada (Figure 2‑1, Table A1-1). Off-road engines^{Footnote 3} are the largest contributor to black carbon representing 37% of emissions (9.6 kt), followed by residential and other small scale stationary combustion with 31% of emissions (8.1 kt). Industry (3.0 kt) represents 12% of emissions, and on-road transportation (2.8 kt) contributes 11%. Other sources of emissions included fugitive emissions from flaring in the upstream oil and gas industry with 5% (1.3 kt) and shipping with 3% (0.7 kt) of emissions.

Figure 2-1: Canada’s 2022 black carbon emissions from Canada’s Black Carbon Inventory Report 2024, by largest contributing sectors^{Footnote 4, Footnote 5}

Canada’s 2024 Black Carbon Emissions Inventory tracks estimated annual emissions of black carbon from 2013 to 2022. In 2022, emissions were 31% (11 kt) below 2013 levels (Figure 2‑2, Table A1-1). The decrease is largely due to reductions in emissions from off-road and on-road diesel engines, resulting from the implementation of effective fuel and engine regulations. Lower residential emissions from home firewood burning also contributed to the decreasing trend, in part from a reduction in the use of conventional fireplaces and wood stoves and their replacement with fireplace inserts, furnaces and stoves with improved emission controls and combustion efficiencies. From 2013 to 2022, emissions from industrial sources (the category marked “Industry” in Figure 2.2) increased by 0.5 kt or 19% largely due to increases in the mining sector, and emissions from other sources decreased slightly.

Figure 2-2: Canada’s black carbon emissions trend (2013-2022), from Canada’s Black Carbon Inventory Report 2024^{Footnote 6}

Canada’s emissions of black carbon are projected to continue decreasing to 2035 (Figure 2-3, Table A1-2), reaching 38% (14 kt) from 2013 emissions by 2025 under the latest projection scenario. Canada is on track to do its part to achieve the collective goal of Arctic States to reduce emissions of black carbon by 25-33% from 2013 levels by 2025.

These emission projections are based on expected emissions of black carbon under policies and measures that are in place as of August 2023. Under this scenario, black carbon emissions are expected to decrease by 49% (18 kt) by 2035 relative to 2013 emissions, for a total of 19 kt emitted in 2035.  This anticipated decline can be attributed to several factors, including the widespread adoption of more efficient pollution-control technologies and the implementation of stringent emission standards (reflected in projected declining emissions from “off-road” and “road transport” sources). Moreover, the electrification of residential heating equipment is also expected to play a considerable role in reducing black carbon emissions (reflected in projected declining emissions from “other stationary combustion”).

Figure 2-3: Canada’s black carbon emissions projections (2025-2035), from Canada’s Greenhouse gas and air pollutant emissions projections – 2023 report, with historic emissions for reference^{Footnote 7, Footnote 8}

3. Methane emissions and future projections

Canada submits a national inventory of anthropogenic emissions of methane and other greenhouse gases to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) every year. This submission consists of the National Inventory Report, as well as Common Reporting Format (CRF) tables, published on the UNFCCC’s website. Additionally, the data are available through Canada’s Open Data Portal.

Canada publishes greenhouse gas projections on an annual basis, which forecast expected future emissions by considering existing policies and actions. The most recent methane projections data are published in Canada’s Greenhouse Gas and Air Pollutant Emissions Projections 2023, with data available through Canada’s Open Data Portal.

3.1 Summary of current methane emissions and future projections.

In 2022, an estimated 4200 kt of methane were emitted from anthropogenic sources in Canada, accounting for 17% (117 Mt CO₂eq) of Canada’s total greenhouse gas emissions (see Figure 3‑1, Table A2-1).^{Footnote 10} The largest source category is Energy^{Footnote 11} (2282 kt or 55% of total methane emissions) with a large portion associated with venting and flaring emissions in the oil and gas industry (1397 kt or 33%). Within the Agricultural sector, enteric fermentation from livestock was a major contributor to methane emissions, accounting for 23% (967 kt) of the Canada’s methane emissions in 2022, while manure management accounted for 4% (155 kt). Landfills contributed most of the methane from the waste sector (696 kt or 17%). Industry, and Land Use, Land Use Change, and Forestry accounted for less than 1% of Canada’s methane emissions in 2022.

Figure 3-1: Canada’s 2022 methane emissions, from Canada’s National Inventory Report 2024, by largest contributing sectors^{Footnote 12, Footnote 13, Footnote 14}

From 2005 to 2022, Canada’s methane emissions decreased by an estimated 1200 kt, or 22%. This trend is mostly due to decreases in fugitive emissions from the oil and gas sector (decreased 847 kt) and livestock (decreased 265 kt) (Figure 3‑2, Table A2-1). The decrease in estimated methane emissions from the oil and gas sector between 2019 and 2020 (decreased 352 kt) occurred during the time when federal regulations to reduce methane emissions from the upstream oil and gas industry came into effect (on January 1, 2020), along with equivalent provincial regulations in Saskatchewan, Alberta and British Columbia.

Figure 3-2: Canada’s methane trend, 2005-2022, from Canada’s National Inventory Report 2024^{Footnote 15, Footnote 16}

Methane emissions projections were modelled to reflect the expected impact of existing policies and measures in place as of August 2023. A second modeling case also provided here (“Additional Measures” projections) includes policies and measures that have been announced but have not yet been fully implemented. With existing policies and actions alone, emissions are projected to decrease by 17% (711 kt) by 2030 relative to 2019 emissions, largely driven by reductions from the oil and gas sector (Figure 3‑3, Table A2-2).

Canada is on track to do its part to achieve the collective goal of the Global Methane Pledge to reduce global emissions of methane by at least 30% from 2020 levels by 2030. When including all planned policies and actions, such as the proposed Regulations Respecting the Reduction in the Release of Methane (Waste Sector) published in Canada Gazette, Part I on June 28, 2024  and the proposed Regulations Amending the Regulations Respecting Reduction in the Release of Methane and Certain Volatile Organic Compounds (Upstream Oil and Gas Sector) published in Canada Gazette, Part I on December 16, 2023, emissions are projected to decrease by more than 37% (1372 kt) by 2030 relative to 2020 emissions.

Figure 3-3: Canada’s methane emissions projections (2025-2035), and historical emissions from the 2023 National Inventory Report for context^{Footnote 17, Footnote 18}

4. National strategies and action plans

4.1 Canada’s Climate Plan

Canada is committed to meeting its enhanced Paris Agreement target to reduce emissions of greenhouse gases by 40-45% from 2005 levels by 2030, and to reach net-zero emissions by 2050.

The Canadian Net-Zero Emissions Accountability Act establishes a legally binding process to set five-year national emissions-reduction targets as well as develop credible, science-based emissions reduction plans to achieve each target. In March 2022, Canada released its first such plan, the 2030 Emissions Reduction Plan, which fulfills a requirement under the Act. This plan outlines how Canada will achieve its goal to reduce emissions by 40-45% below 2005 levels by 2030. Subsequent national emission reductions targets will be set for 2035, 2040, and 2045, ten years in advance. Each target will require an emissions reduction plan to achieve it.

The Clean Fuel Regulations will set carbon intensity reduction requirements for liquid fossil fuels (i.e. gasoline and diesel) on a life-cycle basis. The expected influence of the Clean Fuel Regulations on emissions of black carbon and methane varies across sectors. For example, the Clean Fuel Regulations are expected to provide an incentive for the oil and gas industry to capture and utilize carbon dioxide and methane emissions above and beyond what is mandated under provincial and federal regulations. In addition, the regulations will reduce the carbon intensity of gasoline and diesel through increased blending with low carbon fuels such as ethanol and biodiesel and fuel-switching to advanced vehicle technologies, such as electric vehicles. Other actions that could be recognized under the Clean Fuel Regulations include capturing methane from landfills and converting it to low-carbon-intensity fuel.

Canada’s Low Carbon Economy Fund has received a $2.2 billion renewal aimed at empowering communities to take climate action. This includes a new $180 million Indigenous Leadership Fund and a $25 million investment in Regional Strategic Initiatives that will drive economic prosperity and the creation of sustainable jobs in a net-zero economy. The Low Carbon Economy Fund has successfully supported the launch of several projects that address methane emissions.

Furthermore, economy-wide carbon pollution pricing is in place across Canada through a mix of federal, provincial and territorial carbon pricing systems. These are aligned with common minimum national stringency requirements (‘federal benchmark’), including a minimum carbon price (for direct pricing systems) of $80 per tonne of CO2e (2024), which will rise by $15 per year to $170 per tonne in 2030.

4.2 Canada’s Methane Strategy

In support of methane reduction commitments, including the Global Methane Pledge, Canada released Faster and Further: Canada’s Methane Strategy in September 2022, a strategy to reduce methane emissions across the broader Canadian economy. This whole-of-government Strategy outlines the various approaches Canada is taking to address methane emissions from the oil and gas, agricultural and waste sectors, building on existing regulatory requirements and programs to support emission reductions. Through Canadian leadership on domestic actions, Canada can catalyze similar actions around the world to reduce overall methane emissions by collaborating in various international fora to share our clean technology advancements and encourage other countries to act.

4.2 Canada’s Strategy on Short-Lived Climate Pollutants

In 2017, Environment and Climate Change Canada released the Strategy on Short-Lived Climate Pollutants (SLCPs) (PDF). The Strategy was developed to guide future actions in reducing SLCPs, including black carbon and methane, as well as ground-level ozone and hydrofluorocarbons. The Strategy takes a holistic approach to addressing SLCPs through 48 commitments under five pillars for enhanced action: 1) domestic mitigation efforts; 2) science and communications; 3) international engagement; 4) coordination of ECCC and government-wide activities; and 5) collaboration with provincial and territorial governments and other partners. The objective of the strategy is to generate reductions from all key SLCP emission sources while ensuring a coordinated approach across the Government of Canada for addressing SLCPs.

5. Highlights of best practices and lessons learned

5.1 Black carbon: Success stories

5.1.1 Regulations reducing emissions from off-road diesel engines

Regulatory standards for new off-road diesel engines and large spark-ignition engines are outlined in Canada’s Off-road Compression-Ignition (Mobile and Stationary) and Large Spark-Ignition Engine Emission Regulations. These Regulations set performance-based emission standards for air pollutants from new off-road mobile diesel engines, stationary diesel engines, and large spark-ignition engines manufactured on or after June 4, 2021. The Regulations limit emissions of particulate matter, as well as nitrogen oxides, hydrocarbons, and carbon monoxide. Emissions of particulate matter, a significant portion of which will be black carbon, are expected to reduce by 900 tonnes over the 2021-2035 period. Projections indicate that black carbon emissions from the off-road sector are expected to decrease by 25% from 2020-2035, in large part due to these regulations.

5.1.2 Zero-emission vehicles removing on-road black carbon

Canada set a target in its 2030 Emissions Reduction Plan for all new light-duty cars and passenger trucks to be zero-emission vehicles (ZEVs) by 2035 and is providing incentives to Canadians to support the transition to ZEVs. Final Regulations Amending the Passenger Automobile and Light Truck Greenhouse Gas Emission Regulations were published in December 2023, which require that all new passenger automobiles and light trucks offered for sale in Canada will be ZEVs by 2035, and include interim targets of 20% by 2026 and 60% by 2030.

The Incentives for Zero-Emission Vehicles Program (iZEV), initially launched in 2019, provides incentives of up to $5,000 for the purchase or lease of eligible ZEVs. Several incentive programs have also been launched by individual Canadian provinces and territories. In addition, Canada is investing in its commercial trucking industry by providing $199.6 million to retrofit large trucks, and $33.8 million for hydrogen trucking demonstration projects that address barriers to long-haul zero-emission trucking commercialization. These actions augment black carbon reductions that continue to be achieved by the stringent emissions regulations and fuel standards that the Government of Canada has already put in place.

Taken together, all the above has helped to transform the Canadian vehicle fleet: From 2013 to 2021, the number of new diesel vehicle registrations dropped by 11% while the number of new electric and hybrid vehicles increased by almost 700%.^{Footnote 19} Over the same period, national black carbon emissions resulting from on-road transportation has dropped by an estimated 59% (a 4.3 kt decrease). Additional black carbon reductions are anticipated as this shift towards the electrification of the vehicle fleet continues. For example, the above-cited ZEV regulations are expected to reduce PM_2.5 emissions from light-duty vehicles (some proportion of which consists of black carbon) by 10% by 2035 and 36% by 2050.^{Footnote 20}

5.1.3 Reducing reliance on diesel for power generation

There are more than 200 remote (or “off-grid”) communities and industrial sites (e.g. mines) in Canada that rely on small, diesel-based microgrids for their energy needs. Estimates indicate that approximately 680 million litres of diesel fuel continue to be used annually for heat and power.^{Footnote 21} Canada is taking action to reduce the reliance of remote communities on diesel by promoting and supporting their transition to more sustainable, clean energy technologies. For example, more than 180 renewable energy and capacity-building projects are being supported through three main programs under the Wah-ila-toos initiative: the Clean Energy in Rural and Remote Communities program, the Indigenous Off-Diesel Initiative, and the Northern REACHE Program. Progress has been made; from 2015-2020, the number of renewable energy projects nearly doubled across remote communities and diesel consumption has reduced by over 12 million litres per year.

5.2 Black carbon: Ongoing efforts and areas for further consideration

5.2.1 Wildfire prevention and mitigation

Canada is experiencing longer and more intense wildfires seasons. Since the 1970s, the area burned annually by wildfires has more than doubled, and this amount is predicted to double again by 2100.^{Footnote 22} Wildfires release large amounts of greenhouse gases and air pollutants, including black carbon, which can be transported to Arctic areas where they cause further warming and melting.

Given that wildfire emissions are not considered anthropogenic, black carbon emissions from wildfires are not included as part of the Arctic Council collective black carbon goal or included in Canada’s inventory. However, actions on wildfires are important to mitigating the impact of wildfire smoke emissions on human and environmental health, and climate.

Forecasting smoke events plays a key role in reducing the health impacts of wildfire smoke exposure in Canada. Canada uses smoke forecasting to predict the impacts of wildfire smoke on air quality and provides special air quality statements to alert the public and communicate smoke risks. WildFireSat, an upcoming satellite instrument expected to launch in 2029, will further enhance Canada’s ability to manage wildfires.

The Government of Canada encourages wildland fire science. The Canadian Forest Service (CFS), within Natural Resources Canada, has been involved in fire research for decades and is the largest science-based institution working on wildland fire. The CFS collaborates with partners across the country to increase knowledge on wildland fires, and to improve the ability of authorities to predict and manage risks and benefits. Strategic initiatives to strengthen wildland fire management in Canada have been helpful in morphing how the government addresses wildland. For example, the Blueprint for Wildland Fire Science in Canada (2019-2029), identified priorities and needs in wildland fire science. Furthermore, last year, the Government of Canada launched its National Adaptation Strategy, laying out a framework to strategically reduce the risks of climate change. As part of the priorities under the strategy, the Wildfire Resilient Futures Initiative (WRFI) is providing $285 million over five years to enhance community prevention and mitigation, support innovation in wildland fire knowledge and research, and establish a Centre of Excellence focused on wildland fire innovation and resilience.

Black carbon emissions from wildfires are most directly mitigated through wildfire prevention. The Canadian Council of Forest Ministers (CCFM), a cooperative group composed of federal, provincial and territorial ministers, released the Canadian Wildland Fire Prevention and Mitigation Strategy (the Strategy) on June 5, 2024. The Strategy’s four goals include: 1) Enhance whole-of-society collaboration and coordination, 2) Strengthen First Nations, Metis and Inuit Partnerships, 3) Increase knowledge and understanding and 4) Expand investments in prevention and mitigation. This new whole-of-society approach elevates the importance of prevention and mitigation at all levels of government and society-at-large, which will help communities and infrastructure across Canada, including the Arctic to be more resilient to the threat and impact of wildland fires.

5.2.2 Reducing emissions from residential firewood burning

Residential combustion from home firewood burning represented 27% of black carbon emissions in Canada in 2022. Managing emissions from residential wood-burning generally requires a multi-pronged approach: setting regulatory limits on emissions from new wood burning appliances, incentivizing the phase-out of older, higher-emitting appliances, and encouraging the proper use and maintenance of existing stoves to limit their emissions.

While there are currently no federal regulations to address emissions from residential wood-burning appliances, five provinces, and some municipal jurisdictions, have regulations in place to address them.^{Footnote 23} Most regulations apply only to new stoves, and virtually all modern wood-burning appliances available for purchase in Canada meet existing Canadian Standards Association emission standards.^{Footnote 24} However, wood-burning appliances typically have long lifetimes and many homes across Canada still use older appliances. Incentives are often required to encourage homeowners to replace older, high-emitting appliances with cleaner-burning modern units. Change-out programs or rebates have been implemented in many parts of Canada.^{Footnote 25} Exploring options for other federal efforts to reduce emissions from wood smoke is an action item suggested in Canada’s Strategy on Short-Lived Climate Pollutants. 

5.2.3 Designation of a shipping emissions control area in the Canadian Arctic

Arctic shipping traffic in Canada increased by around 70% from 2010 to 2019 and associated fuel consumption more than doubled. In November 2023, Canada submitted a proposal to the International Maritime Organization (IMO) to designate an Emission Control Area (ECA) in Arctic waters under Canada’s jurisdiction to address shipping emissions in the region. The proposed Canadian Arctic ECA would require ships to use cleaner engine technologies and cleaner fuels to reduce emissions of sulphur oxides, nitrogen oxides, and particulate matter. A co-benefit of compliance with cleaner fuels is the potential reduction of black carbon emissions from vessels in the Canadian Arctic.

The proposal was approved by the IMO’s Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC) in March 2024 and adopted at the following MEPC meeting in October 2024. Canada can now begin developing regulations to support implementation of the ECA.

5.3 Methane: Success stories

5.3.1 Emission reductions in the oil and gas sector

The oil and gas sector is the largest contributor to Canada’s methane emissions, but emissions have been trending downwards. Regulations Respecting Reduction in the Release of Methane and Certain Volatile Organic Compounds (Upstream Oil and Gas Sector) were published by the federal government in 2018 and cover key fugitive and venting emission sources in the upstream oil and gas sector. The Regulations came into force on January 1, 2020, and include requirements for: 1) implementing a program to detect and repair leaks of fugitive emissions of natural gas from equipment; 2) measurement of emissions from compressors and corrective action when emissions exceed the applicable limit; and 3) zero venting and conservation of natural gas from wells used for hydraulic fracturing. From 2019 (the year before the Regulations came into effect) to 2022, vented emissions from the oil and gas sector decreased by 19%. Other federal investment programs such as the Emissions Reduction Fund and a series of provincial regulations^{Footnote 26} have also helped drive emission reductions. A modest reduction in methane is also expected from recent regulations targeting VOC emissions from storage and loading of volatile petroleum liquids. A Review of Canada’s methane regulations for the upstream oil and gas sector showed that Canada is on track to achieve its goal to reduce methane emissions from the oil and gas sector by 40-45% below 2012 levels by 2025.

Figure 5-3.1: Methane emissions from the Oil and Gas Sector

At COP26, as part of its announcement to support the Global Methane Pledge, Canada set a new, more ambitious goal to reduce methane emissions from the oil and gas sector by at least 75% below 2012 levels by 2030. To support this goal, Canada published draft regulations in December 2023 to expand the scope of existing methane regulations for upstream oil and gas to introduce emission standards and best work practices.

5.3.2 Innovation in methane measurement and mitigation

As mentioned, Canada was one of the first countries to develop national methane regulations for the oil and gas sector in 2018. In response to these regulations, Canada has experienced a boom in innovation and job creation in both the measurement and mitigation domains. There are now more than 170 Canadian companies providing methane emissions management solutions covering a broad range of the oil and gas production chain. The economic impacts are growing, as a recent survey of these same companies found that 80% of respondents expect job growth because of the methane regulations.^{Footnote 27} Canada is supporting this innovation by providing funding for methane mitigation projects through programs such as the Low Carbon Economy Fund,^{Footnote 28} the Canadian Emission Reduction Innovation Network,^{Footnote 29} and the Clean Resource Innovation Network.^{Footnote 30}

Canada recognizes satellite detection of methane plumes as an emerging area, as the constellation of methane-measuring satellites grows. As such, Canada continues to evaluate the data quality and potential applications for these satellite datasets. Furthermore, in 2021 Canada invested $20 million in GHGSat, a Canadian company that deploys GHG-measuring satellites, to expand its fleet of high-tech satellites.

Canada’s government scientists and government-supported leading academics are also developing innovative monitoring techniques to better understand and quantify methane emissions from landfills and the oil and gas sector. These developments in methane monitoring are needed to bridge the differences between measured and reported emissions of GHGs, and to support Canada’s ability to track progress towards meeting climate commitments. Canada has made significant progress in using atmospheric measurements in its emissions inventory, with the 2024 National Inventory Report using measurement-based adjustments of methane emissions for the upstream oil and gas industry.

To further foster innovation, Canada announced a $30 million investment to establish a Methane Centre of Excellence to improve the accuracy, understanding, reporting, and mitigation of methane emissions. The Centre launched in March 2024 with a call for proposals for emissions measurement and mitigation projects. Work associated with the Methane Centre of Excellence will accelerate methane measurement and mitigation by increasing government-led research efforts, providing funding for Canadian innovators, and by connecting Canadian experts to exchange knowledge and expertise.

5.3.3 Canada’s international leadership on methane

Canada is taking a multi-pronged approach to international engagement on methane, with a focus on climate, air quality, and economic objectives. As the Government of Canada engages with international partners, it will continue to demonstrate leadership by supporting cost-effective global reductions and encouraging global action.

Canada was one of the first countries to endorse the Global Methane Pledge and is currently serving as one of six Global Methane Pledge Champions. In this role, Canada advocates for climate financing targeting methane emissions, advancing domestic reductions of methane in the oil and gas and waste sectors, and promoting action on methane to support global air quality objectives.

Canada is also a part of the Global Methane Initiative (GMI) (PDF), a voluntary international public/private partnership focused on reducing barriers to the recovery and use of methane. Canada sits on the GMI Steering Committee, and previously served as co-chair and then chair between 2016 and 2023. Canada is also currently chair of the GMI Oil and Gas Subcommittee and co-chair of the GMI Biogas Subcommittee, and participates as a delegate in the Coal Mines Subcommittee. Since 2004, GMI support has enabled Partner Countries to launch hundreds of methane recovery and use projects, with nearly 650 MMTCO₂e^{Footnote 31} of associated emission reductions.

Canada was also a founding member of the Climate and Clean Air Coalition, established to support collective action in over 70 countries on short-lived climate pollutants including methane and black carbon. Canada currently serves as a member of its Board, which it has also co-chaired for several years. Since the CCAC was founded in 2012, Canada has provided a total of $33 million dollars to the CCAC Trust Fund, ranking as one of the top donors of the Coalition.

Canada’s international leadership on methane includes directly supporting global methane reductions by delivering project financing. For example, Canada provided 100% of the funding for the “Recíclo Orgánicos” pilot program in Chile from 2017 to 2022, which supported 22 waste projects throughout Chile and led to an expected reduction of 9.5 MMTCO₂e by 2040. Based on this success, Canada recently announced $7.5 million dollars to expand the program to four small island states in the Caribbean and two in the Pacific. Canada is also providing $2 million in support to methane mitigation projects in Côte d’Ivoire, Ecuador, India, Nigeria, and Serbia. In addition, Canada sits on the Implementation Committee for the International Methane Emissions Observatory (IMEO) under the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP). IMEO provides open, reliable, and actionable data to support reductions in methane emissions.

5.4 Methane: Ongoing efforts and areas for further consideration

5.4.1 Supporting the implementation of landfill methane regulations

Canada has published draft regulations to cut landfill methane emissions approximately in half by 2030. The new regulations, which are anticipated to be finalized by 2025, will place limits on landfill surface methane and venting, and will require the destruction of recovered methane, regular monitoring, and leak repair. It is expected that many landfills will exceed the proposed methane generation thresholds, so support for technologies and processes that reduce methane emissions and identify leaks will be essential in implementing the regulations moving forward.

Canada is providing funding opportunities for landfill methane reduction and waste-to-energy projects through the Low Carbon Economy Fund, Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program, Canada Infrastructure Bank, and the Federation of Canadian Municipalities’ Organic Waste-to-Energy funding offer. Additional opportunities to create revenue for waste sector projects are available through the generation of offset credits for landfill methane recovery and destruction, and biogas production. Demand for such offsets is anticipated to increase in support of targets under the federal Clean Fuel Regulations, Clean Electricity Regulations, and oil and gas sector GHG emission caps.

5.4.2 Decreasing waste and diverting organics

Food loss and waste represents the single largest percentage (23%) of Canadian municipal solid waste disposed (PDF). Through the Canadian Council of Ministers of the Environment, federal, provincial, and territorial governments endorsed an aspirational Canada-wide goal to reduce waste disposed per capita by 30% by 2030, and by 50% by 2040 from 2014 levels. Specifically addressing food loss and waste, the Government of Canada has committed to contributing to the achievement of UN Sustainable Development Goal 12.3, which looks to “halve per capita global food waste at the retail and consumer levels and reduce food losses along production and supply chains, including post-harvest losses” by 2030.

In 2019, the Government of Canada launched the Food Policy for Canada (PDF),a whole-of-government approach to more resilient and sustainable food systems in Canada. The Policy highlights reducing food waste as one of the key areas requiring action in the short and medium term. Under the Food Policy, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC) implemented the $20 million Food Waste Reduction Challenge to encourage innovative solutions that can help address the problem of food loss and waste across the food supply chain. Through targeted innovation streams, the Challenge supported innovators to accelerate and advance the deployment of diverse and high-impact solutions, concluding in March 2024 with the selection of four grand-prize winners. Moving forward, Canada will explore additional opportunities to continue driving down food loss and waste toward more circular food systems.

5.4.3 Advancing and scaling solutions in the agricultural sector

Agricultural methane emissions in Canada have been relatively constant over the last decade. Of Canada’s three main methane-emitting sectors, agriculture remains the only sector without a defined methane emissions reduction target.

However, there are existing off-the-shelf technological solutions or beneficial management practices to significantly reduce enteric methane emissions. In November 2023, Canada launched the $12 million Agricultural Methane Reduction Challenge to support the advancement of low-cost and scalable practices, processes, and technologies designed to reduce methane emissions produced by cattle.

Additionally, the Government of Canada is delivering incentive programs and supporting provincial- and territorial-designed and delivered cost-shared programs for adopting technologies and livestock and manure beneficial management practices to give cattle and dairy producers economic and environmentally sustainable options to reduce livestock-related methane emissions. Canada is also developing carbon offset protocols for reducing enteric methane emission from fed cattle, and recently approved the use of 3-NOP as a feed additive that reduces enteric methane formation.

Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada’s Strategic Plan for Science includes a research focus on developing effective management strategies and clean technologies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from livestock from each step of the production system. A Sustainable Agriculture Strategy (SAS) is also being developed to help set a shared direction for collective action to improve environmental performance in the sector over the long-term, supporting farmers livelihoods and the long-term business vitality of the sector. The SAS will build on past and current successes, recognizing action already taken by producers to meet environmental objectives while growing production and supporting Canada’s role as a global food provider.

6. Conclusion

Reducing emissions of black carbon and methane remains a priority for Canada. Action is being taken at national and regional levels to address key sources of these pollutants, and broader climate and air quality policies are expected to result in additional benefits. Canada will continue to work with its partners, both domestically and internationally, to foster emission reductions across the world.

Canada is pleased to submit this report to the Arctic Council as part of its commitments under the Framework for Action on Enhanced Black Carbon and Methane Emissions Reduction and looks forward to continued cooperation within the Arctic Council to advance progress on widespread reductions of black carbon and methane.

7. Annexes

Annex 1: Black carbon emission tables

*Note: Direct comparison between projected emissions (based on the 2023 inventory) and historic emissions from the 2024 inventory in Table A1-1 are impeded by updates to methodologies and activity data in the 2024 inventory. Historic emissions from the 2023 inventories are included in Table A1-2 to provide a consistent context for the projections but may differ with Table A1-1.

Annex 2: Methane emission tables

*Note: Direct comparison between projected emissions (based on the 2023 inventory) and historic emissions from the 2024 inventory in Table A2-1 are impeded by updates to methodologies and activity data in the 2024 inventory. Historic emissions from the 2023 inventories are included in Table A2-2 to provide a consistent context for the projections but may differ with Table A2-1.
^#Note: The “Forest Land” subsector, part of the “Land Use, Land Use Change, and Forestry” sector, are displayed separately here as projections for other subsectors were unavailable.

Annex 3: List of actions

Mobile and stationary diesel-powered sources

Status of Canadian actions in response to the Arctic Council Expert Group on Black Carbon and Methane in its 2021 Summary of Progress and Recommendations report (recommended 2021 actions) related to the reduction of emissions from diesel engines:

Recommendation 1a: Reduce emissions from new diesel vehicles and engines by adopting and implementing world-class particulate matter exhaust emission standards and ensuring wide-spread availability of ultra-low sulphur fuels.

Canadian actions:

• Emission and fuel standards as outline in the following regulations:
  • Off-road Compression-Ignition (Mobile and Stationary) and Large Spark-Ignition Engine Emission Regulations
  • On-Road Vehicle and Engine Emission Regulations
  • Clean Fuel Standard
  • Sulphur in Diesel Fuel Regulations

Recommendation 1b: Reduce emissions from legacy diesel vehicles and engines by adopting targeted policies and programs. 

Canadian actions:

• Mandatory Emission testing in some provinces for heavy-duty diesel vehicles (Ontario, British Columbia)

Recommendation 1c: Reduce black carbon by stimulating the shift to alternative vehicle technologies and modes of transportation, and through efficiency measures.

Canadian actions:

• Regulations Amending the Passenger Automobile and Light Truck Greenhouse Gas Emission Regulations require that an increasing percentage of the new light-duty vehicles (cars, SUVs, pickup trucks, etc.) offered for sale are zero-emission vehicles (ZEVs), reaching 100% in 2035
• The iZEV rebate program for purchase or lease of a ZEV and tax write-offs offered to businesses for the purchase of zero-emission vehicles
• Clean Fuel Standard – ZEVs are a compliance option
• Light-duty vehicle, heavy-duty vehicle standards – ZEVS and hybrids are compliance options
• Province of British Columbia’s “Go Electric Program” and Province of Quebec “Roulez vert” Program, both of which include a rebate program for eligible zero-emission vehicles
• Carbon pollution pricing (federal backstop, and provincial systems)
• ZEV procurement targets for Government of Canada’s light-duty vehicle fleet

Recommendation 1d: Work to accelerate efforts to mitigate black carbon from international shipping, and implement measures to mitigate black carbon from domestic shipping activities.

Canadian actions:

• Canada provides expert technical support, policy advice, and emissions testing expertise for IMO’s work on reducing the impact on the Arctic of black carbon emissions from international shipping
• Canada’s Arctic Emission Control Area (ECA) proposal was adopted by the IMO in October 2024. A co-benefit of complying with the ECA with cleaner fuels is the potential reduction of black carbon emissions from vessels in the Canadian Arctic
• In 2020, Canada led a Correspondence Group to develop a standardized protocol for measuring black carbon emissions from marine engines and continues this effort through an international technical working group it established
• Developed a Marine Emissions Inventory Tool for generating emissions reports from marine vessels
• Carbon pollution pricing (federal backstop, and provincial/territorial systems)

Recommendation 1e: Reduce emissions from stationary diesel engines by adopting targeted policies and programs, including shift to new technologies and improved efficiency.

Canadian actions:

• Clean Energy for Rural and Remote Communities Program
• Indigenous Off-Diesel Initiative Challenge
• Northern Responsible Energy Approach for Community Heat and Electricity Program
• Carbon pollution pricing (federal backstop, and provincial/territorial systems)

Oil and gas

Status of the recommended 2021 actions to reduce emissions from oil and gas production:

Recommendation 2a: Adopt and implement oil and gas methane emission reduction strategies.

Canadian actions:

• Federal Regulations Respecting Reduction in the Release of Methane and Certain Volatile Organic Compounds (Upstream Oil and Gas Sector) (SOR/2018-6) and draft amendments published Dec 2023
• British Columbia’s regulation to reduce methane emissions from upstream oil and gas operations by 45% by 2025 (Jan 2020)
• Alberta’s Directives 060 and 017
• Saskatchewan’s Oil and Gas emissions Management Regulation (2019) (Chapter 0-2 Reg 7)
• Faster and Further: Canada’s Methane Strategy released in September 2022, which builds on commitments to reduce oil and gas methane by at least 75 percent below 2012 levels by 2030
• Commitment to cap and cut oil and gas sector emissions by at least 75% below 2012 by 2030
• Canadian Net-Zero Emissions Accountability Act 5-year targets

Recommendation 2b: Encourage the adoption of best practices in reducing routine flaring and in improving gas capture.

Canadian actions:

• British Columbia Oil and Gas Commission Oil and Gas Activities Act, Drilling and Production Regulation and CleanBC Industry Fund
• Alberta Energy Regulator Directive 060: Upstream Petroleum Industry Flaring, Incinerating, and Venting
• Saskatchewan’s Oil and Gas Emissions Management Regulations, 2019, Directive PNG036: Venting and Flaring Requirements, and Directive PNG017: Measurement Requirements for Oil and Gas Operation
• Newfoundland and Labrador Regulation 120/09: Offshore Petroleum Drilling and Production Regulations
• Carbon pollution pricing (federal backstop, and provincial systems)
• Endorsement of the World Bank’s Zero Routine Flaring by 2030 initiative

Recommendation 2c: Urge firms to engage in international and domestic voluntary methane and black carbon emission reduction activities, including the implementation of methane management strategies.

Canadian actions:

• Canada is currently co-chair of the Global Methane Initiative, as well as co-chair of the Oil and Gas and Biogas Subcommittees under the Global Methane Initiative
• Canada is a founding partner and a top donor to the Climate and Clean Air Coalition
• Canada is a signatory of the Global Methane Pledge and currently a Global Methane Pledge Champion that advocates for methane action in relevant regional and international fora.

Recommendation 2d: Identify and promote targeted and cost-effective mitigation measures at super-emitting oil and gas production sites and large methane emission point sources, as appropriate.

Canadian actions:

• Emission Reduction Fund for onshore and offshore oil and gas companies
• Canadian Emissions Reduction Innovation Network
• British Columbia’s Clean Growth Infrastructure Royalty Program and CleanBC Industry Fund
• $20M funding to GHGSat, which uses satellites to detect and quantify methane emissions from point sources

Residential combustion

Status of the recommended 2021 actions to reduce emissions from residential combustion:

Recommendation 3a: Reduce emissions from new solid fuel combustion appliances by accelerating deployment of cleaner and more efficient heating sources.

Canadian actions:

• Provincial/Municipal Regulations
• Canadian Council of Ministers of the Environment Guidance Manual on Regulating Air Emissions from Small Solid Biomass Combustors

Recommendation 3b: Reduce emissions from legacy solid fuel combustion appliances by accelerating replacement with cleaner and more efficient new heating sources.

Canadian actions:

• Many financial incentive programs offered at the provincial and municipal level, including:
  • Ottawa Wood Burning Change-out Program
  • Ontario Home Energy Conservation Incentive Program
  • Nova Scotia Heating Systems Rebates
  • Yukon Heating Systems Rebate Program
  • British Columbia CleanBC Better Homes, CleanBC Better Buildings, Wood Stove Exchange Program, Indigenous Community Heat Pump incentive, and CleanBC Better Homes Low Interest Financing Program

Recommendation 3c: Reduce emissions by promoting enhanced energy efficiency in residential dwellings reducing the need for heating, especially in buildings heated with oil or solid fuels.

Canadian actions:

• Many financial incentive programs offered at the provincial and municipal level, including:
  • Energy Savings Rebate program in Ontario
  • Rebates offered through the Arctic Energy Alliance, in partnership with the Government of the Northwest Territories
  • Métis Energy Efficiency Offers from Efficiency Manitoba
  • Heating systems rebate offered by Efficiency Nova Scotia
  • EnerGuide, a national energy efficiency rating program

Recommendation 3d: Reduce emissions from appliances by promoting proper operation and maintenance of appliances, including storage and treatment of fuels, and by raising awareness of the emissions impact of combustion practices amongst the general public.

Canadian actions:

• Canadian Council of Ministers of the Environment Code of Practice for Residential Wood Burning
• Burn it Smart regional campaigns

Solid waste

Status of the recommended 2021 actions to reduce emissions from solid waste:

Recommendation 4a: Avoid methane emissions by preventing food waste and the landfilling of organic waste. Improve resource efficiencies as appropriate for Arctic conditions, including new ways of reusing organic material based on more efficient sorting of waste, composting and biogas production.

Canadian actions:

• Food Policy for Canada: Completed the Food Waste Reduction Challenge, Grand Prize Winners announced in 2024
• Love Food, Hate Waste Canada, administered by the National Zero Waste Council
• Canadian Council of Ministers of the Environment Aspirational Waste Reduction Goals – a 30% reduction in waste disposal by 2030 and 50% reduction by 2040
• Ambitious organic waste diversion targets by provinces and territories, including:
  • QC: 70% by 2030
  • ON: ranges from 50-70% (depending on sector criteria)
  • BC: 95% by 2030

Recommendation 4b: Adopt regulations or incentives for landfill gas capture and control.

Canadian actions:

• Canada’s Greenhouse Gas Offset Credit System, Landfill Methane Recovery and Destruction Protocol
• Federal regulations to mitigate methane emissions at landfills (under development)
• Ontario requirements for landfill gas collection and flaring (O. Reg 232/98 and Reg 347)
• British Columbia Landfill Gas Management Regulation
• British Columbia Greenhouse Gas Emission Offset System; Methane Management Offset Protocol (under development)
• Quebec Regulations respecting the landfilling and incineration of residual materials
• Quebec Regulation respecting landfill methane reclamation and destruction project eligible for the issuance of offset credits.
• Alberta Carbon Competitiveness Incentive Regulation (does not directly target landfills, but includes landfills that emit over 1000 kt CO2e annually)
• Alberta Emissions Offset System: Quantification protocols for aerobic composting, aerobic landfill bioreactor projects, landfill gas capture and combustion

Recommendation 4c: Promote best practices for waste management in Northern and remote communities.

Canadian actions:

• Solid Waste Management for Northern and Remote Communities: Planning and Technical Guidance Document

Agriculture and animal husbandry

Status of the recommended 2021 actions to reduce emissions from agriculture and animal husbandry:

Recommendation 5a: Promote food consumption patterns including Traditional Knowledge of Indigenous peoples, that utilize Arctic food chains sustainably and efficiently, support the preservation of carbon sinks, and minimize life-cycle emissions of methane.

Canadian actions:

• Northern Isolated Community Initiatives Fund (NICI) to enhance local, community-led projects that reduce dependence on the southern food industry
• Support for implementing the United Nations Declaration Act Action Plan for co-development with Inuit partners of legislative and policy option to facilitate the production, sale and trade of traditional and country food.
• Federal Greenhouse Gas Offset System, enhanced soil organic carbon project type (under development)

Recommendation 5b: Promote work on possibilities to reduce emissions of enteric methane, in co-operation with relevant organizations.

Canadian actions:

• Agricultural Clean Technology (ACT) Program creates an enabling environment for the development and adoption of clean technologies
• Agricultural Methane Reduction Challenge will provide up to $12 million to advance innovative, scalable and economically viable practices, processes, and technologies that contribute to the net reduction of enteric methane emissions from the cattle sector, specifically cow-calf operations, feedlot, and dairy
• The $3.5-billion Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership between the federal, provincial and territorial governments will help support Canada’s broader environmental goals, including addressing methane emissions in the sector
• Agricultural Climate Solutions Living Labs supports actions to accelerate co-development, testing, adoption, dissemination, and monitoring of technologies and practices that mitigate GHG emissions
• Sustainable Agriculture Strategy (under development) to help set a shared direction for collective action to improve environmental performance in the sector over the long-term
• Canada’s Greenhouse Gas Offset Credit System protocols (under development): Reducing Enteric Methane Emissions from Beef Cattle, and Avoidance of Manure Methane Emissions through Anaerobic Digestion and Other Treatments
• Alberta Emissions Offset System: Quantification protocols for reducing greenhouse gas emissions from fed cattle, selection for low residual feed intake markers in beef cattle. British Columbia and Québec also have offset systems with agricultural methane protocols either available or in development
• Mitigating and Adapting to Climate Change as a priority area of Agriculture and Agri-Food’s Strategic Plan for Science
• International Science Collaboration:
  • Global Research Alliance on Agricultural Greenhouse Gases
  • FAO -Livestock Environmental Assessment and Performance (LEAP)
  • Agriculture Innovation Mission for Climate (AIM4C)

Recommendation 5c: Develop agricultural policies and practices to reduce open burning of agricultural waste. Encourage studies and piloting of innovative solutions that reduce the need for open burning.

Canadian actions:

• Canadian Council of Ministers of the Environment Guidance Document for Canadian Jurisdictions on Open-Air Burning
• Provincial and municipal regulations limiting open burning activities

Management of wildfires

Status of recommended 2021 actions related to the reduction of emissions from wildfires:

Recommendation 6a: Build and maintain international mutual aid and resource exchange arrangements amongst Arctic States that have specialized experience in wildfire management, suppression, and monitoring in boreal forests.

Canadian actions:

• Canadian Interagency Forest Fire Centre Canada/U.S. Reciprocal Forest Fire Fighting Arrangement (CANUS)
• Canada participates in the international Vegetation Fire and Smoke Pollution Warning and Advisory System (VFSP-WAS) project by contributing to the establishment of the North American regional VFSP-WAS Coordination Center (RVFSP-WAC)

Recommendation 6b: Develop region-specific public education campaigns on wildfire prevention and safety.

Canadian actions:

• FireSmart Canada operationalized by Canadian Interagency Forest Fire Centre Canada
• Ongoing efforts to operationalize the Canadian Wildland Fire Prevention and Mitigation Strategy
• Public education and awareness campaigns listed as actions under the Canadian Council of Forest Ministers 2021-2026 Action Plan
• Wildfire Resilient Futures Initiative (WRFI)

Recommendation 6c: Develop and implement regionally appropriate forest management practices that reduce the risk of severe wildfires.

Canadian actions:

• Canadian Wildland Fire Strategy
• The Blueprint for Wildland Fire Science in Canada (2019 – 2029)
• Ecosystem-based Management Emulating Natural Disturbances (EMEND) project
• Canadian Council of Forest Ministers 2021-2026 Action Plan
• Canadian Wildland Fire Prevention and Mitigation Strategy
• Wildfire Resilient Futures Initiative (WRFI)

Recommendation 6d: Use the best available science to develop prediction models that can be used to examine fire risks at daily to decadal scales to support drafting of prevention and emergency response plans.

Canadian actions:

• Canadian Wildland Fire Information System
• Canadian Forest Fire Danger Rating System
• Canadian Fire Effects Model
• FireWork air quality forecast system
• Smoke dispersion modelling
• WildFireSat (under development)