Departmental Sustainable Development Strategy 2020 to 2023: Update for 2021-22
Executive Summary
All Canadians have a role to play in the sustainability of our natural resources. It is in how we educate ourselves on climate change and choose how to respond. It is in how we switch to cleaner power in our homes or buy more energy efficient appliances. It is in our choices to recycle batteries or charge our electric vehicles. It is in the steps we take to reduce risks for wildfires when we are out enjoying nature. Each of our actions and decisions help to maintain our natural resources for the future and impact our quality of life in some form or another. Put together, these choices help advance Canada towards a more sustainable future.
Natural Resources Canada (NRCan) is pleased to present our 2020 to 2023 Departmental Sustainable Development Strategy (2020-23 DSDS) that supports Canada’s progress towards this environmental sustainability.
The Government of Canada’s plan for sustainable development begins with the 2019 to 2022 Federal Sustainable Development Strategy (2019-22 FSDS). This strategy sets out the Government’s priorities, establishes 13 long-term federal goals and related targets, and identifies actions to achieve those objectives. NRCan has a significant role to play in these federal efforts by leading on the FSDS Goal for Clean Energy, and co-leading on the Goals for Clean Growth and for Sustainably Managed Lands and Forests. We also contribute to six other FSDS Goals: Effective Action on Climate Change; Greening Government; Modern and Resilient Infrastructure; Healthy Coasts and Oceans; Pristine Lakes and Rivers; and Safe and Healthy Communities.
NRCan’s 2020-23 DSDS lays out our key planned actions for sustainable development over the next three years, how we will measure and show results, and how these results contribute to the Goals and Targets identified in the 2019-22 FSDS. It illustrates how the Department supports the Minister of Natural Resources in addressing priorities set by the Prime Minister and how we collaborate on sustainable development with partners like the provinces and territories, Indigenous peoples, communities, industry, academia and non-governmental organizations. NRCan’s 2020-23 DSDS also illustrates how we support Canada’s commitment to Agenda 2030 and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The 2020-23 DSDS gives us the opportunity to show how we contribute to important sustainable development initiatives and commitments for Canada, but this strategy was developed during unprecedented times. The pandemic has had significant impacts across all sectors of society and the economy, including across natural resources sectors. The recovery picture for these sectors is still taking shape, but it is clear that sustainable development will be all the more important in supporting a post-COVID economic and social recovery. The 2020-23 DSDS will help guide the department as it continues its contribution to supporting sustainable development initiatives and commitments for Canada. As new policies and programs are developed and implemented to respond to the needs of post-pandemic recovery, the DSDS will also evolve through annual updates to reflect the changing priorities of the department, and of the Government of Canada. Updating the DSDS in this fashion will mean that it stays current and accurate in how it supports our federal strategy in meeting its goals and our international commitments for greenhouse gas reductions (GHG).
Section 1: Introduction to the Departmental Sustainable Development Strategy
The 2019-22 FSDS presents the Government of Canada’s sustainable development goals and targets, as required by the Federal Sustainable Development Act. In keeping with the purpose of this Act to provide the legal framework for developing and implementing a Federal Sustainable Development Strategy that will make environmental decision-making more transparent and accountable to Parliament, Natural Resources Canada (NRCan) supports the goals laid out in the FSDS through the activities described in our 2020-23 DSDS.
Section 2: Sustainable Development at Natural Resources Canada
As the department responsible for creating a sustainable resource advantage for Canadians, NRCan has a vital role to play in Canada’s social, economic and environmental well-being and in ensuring that our natural resources remain abundant for future generations. Our policies and programs promote the responsible management of Canada’s natural resource sectors for ongoing environmental sustainability, economic prosperity and continued respect for our communities and Indigenous peoples. As a science-based department, we support research, development and demonstration for innovative technologies and nature-based solutions that enhance sustainability and help to address the negative impacts of climate change. We also invest in Canadian natural resource industries to foster a skilled, diverse and knowledge-based workforce, and to strengthen Canada’s brand and global leadership in foreign markets. We work with key partners like provinces and territories, Indigenous peoples, communities, academia and non-governmental organizations to support sustainable development initiatives at all levels of society.
NRCan contributes to the sustainable development of Canada’s natural resources by:
- leading foundational science and sharing expertise to reduce climate change impact and mitigate natural disaster risks;
- advancing ongoing innovation and transformation;
- integrating sustainability and competitiveness to maintain a strong resource advantage for our industries; and,
- promoting strong collaboration and partnerships, both within Canada and internationally.
Under the 2019-22 FSDS, NRCan continues to be the leading federal department for the Clean Energy Goal and co-leads on the Clean Growth GoalFootnote 1 and the Sustainably Managed Lands and Forest Goal.Footnote 2 NRCan also contributes to six other FSDS Goals: Effective Action on Climate Change; Greening Government; Modern and Resilient Infrastructure; Healthy Coasts and Oceans; Pristine Lakes and Rivers; and Safe and Healthy Communities. Section 3 of this strategy outlines all of NRCan’s departmental actions and how we contribute to each FSDS Goal.
A. Context for NRCan’s Contributions to Sustainable Development
NRCan’s long-term focus for sustainable development is on supporting the Government of Canada’s commitment to pursue net-zero emissions by 2050 and on moving our natural resource sectors towards an inclusive green economy. With the onset of COVID 19, the first priority became ensuring the health and livelihoods of Canadians. Like in many countries, the Government of Canada and provincial and territorial authorities implemented strict protocols for Canadians to slow the spread of the virus and save lives, limiting basic social interaction for an extended period of time. Canadian energy, forest and mining industries supported the production of critical supplies, like producing hand sanitizer using ethanol from biofuel producers and chemical compounds from petroleum, creating surgical masks and gowns from wood and its derivatives, and powering smartphones and computers with critical minerals to ensure that Canadians remained connected while physically distancing. As Canada’s natural resource industries became among the economic sectors hardest hit by the pandemic, the federal government responded with several measures to support distressed sectors so they can continue to play a key role in Canada’s clean-growth future.
But even though COVID 19 created unprecedented times for Canadians and the world, there are still some factors that are constant. Canada remains rich in natural resources. We have one of the largest and most diverse supplies of energy in the world; we have the third-largest global supply of proven oil reserves and third-largest reserves of uranium, and we are the third-largest generator of hydroelectricity; and our 347 million hectares of forests still make up 9% of the world’s forests. We also have a diverse workforce, a strong foundation to continue international trade partnerships or develop new ones, and systems in place at all levels of government to protect the economic interests of Canadians. As the longer-term impacts of the global pandemic become clearer over the coming years, our policies and programs for managing our natural resources will evolve to support improvements in the quality of life for Canadians.
The 2020-23 DSDS reflects the actions and targets that NRCan is currently prioritizing for this three-year cycle. The annual updates to the 2020-23 DSDS will reflect the policy and program changes that are developed to respond to new or changing circumstances to support the economic and social recovery from the pandemic and to carry out the department’s sustainable development mandate.
B. NRCan’s Contributions to the Federal Sustainable Development Strategy
NRCan’s programs and initiatives contribute to nine goals in the 2019-22 FSDS. Although the FSDS Goals that NRCan contributes to are the same, our 2020-23 DSDS has changed from the previous 2017-20 DSDS. Some departmental actions were removed because planned results were achieved, some were refined to capture ongoing work, and some new ones were added to capture the new ways that NRCan is supporting sustainable development.
The table below sets the longer-term context for Canada’s natural resources sectors as per the FSDS Goals and provides an overview of NRCan’s key actions that support them.
NRCAN’S CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE FSDS GOALS
FSDS GOAL: EFFECTIVE ACTION ON CLIMATE CHANGE – A low-carbon economy contributes to limiting global average temperature rise to well below 2 degrees Celsius and supports efforts to limit the increase to 1.5 degrees Celsius
The impacts of climate change can be felt across Canada. This includes a rising global temperature, as well as higher incidences of wildfires and pest outbreaks, increased flooding and erosion of coastlines.
For NRCan, effective action on climate change means using scientific research and technologies to support the transition to a low-carbon economy. The Department advances clean and emerging technologies which reduce energy consumption and GHG emissions. NRCan also shares climate change and energy information, and tools with its stakeholders. This work helps stakeholders to harness mitigation opportunities and build capacity and adaptation strategies in different communities across Canada, including northern and remote regions.
NRCan also provides access to, archives and disseminates authoritative geospatial data to support climate change action and decision-making, continuously improved through science, technology and innovation. The Department develops datasets of key national and regional environmental indicators from Earth Observation data that will improve the scientific base for monitoring climate change and supporting environmental assessments, especially for land cover, snow and ice, vegetation, permafrost and water storage to help Canadians make informed decisions to mitigate the impacts of climate change.
FSDS GOAL: GREENING GOVERNMENT – The Government of Canada will transition to low-carbon, climate-resilient, and green operations
The Government of Canada uses a significant amount of energy in all daily operations. All government departments play an important role in the transition to a low-carbon economy, including stimulating the clean technology sector and contributing to Canada’s international climate change commitments. The Greening Government Strategy sets ambitious targets and outlines actions to achieve them, including lowering GHG emissions, becoming carbon neutral and implementing greening efforts into procurement.
In support of the Treasury Board Secretariat Centre for Greening Government and the Federal Action Plan, NRCan, through provision of training, advice, and technical support, is committed to lowering GHG emissions and reducing energy use in federal buildings and fleets. NRCan is also improving waste management, and increasing the use of clean electricity in all of its operations.
FSDS GOAL: CLEAN GROWTH – A growing clean technology industry in Canada contributes to clean growth and the transition to a low-carbon economy
The advancement of clean technology is vital for Canada to achieve our climate change goals while maintaining a strong and growing economy. To position Canada as a global leader in clean technology, NRCan works with other federal departments, provinces and territories, academic institutions, international experts, and other key stakeholders to tackle Canada’s most pressing environmental challenges and create more opportunities for Canadian workers.
NRCan invests in clean energy technology, such as renewable energy and energy efficiency technologies as well as in clean energy innovation to support the transition to a low-carbon economy, in which clean energy is widely available and affordable. As part of this work, Canada participates in Mission Innovation (MI), a multi-country initiative to accelerate global clean energy innovation. Under MI, Canada has committed to double annual federal investments in clean energy research, development and demonstration (RD&D) from 2014-15 to 2019-20; NRCan tracks clean energy RD&D investments across all departments to report on Canada’s delivery of this commitment. In addition, NRCan co-leads the Clean Growth Hub to support clean technology innovators navigate federal government resources, and improve the overall efficiency of clean technology programs.
FSDS GOAL: MODERN AND RESILIENT INFRASTRUCTURE – Modern, sustainable, and resilient infrastructure supports clean economic growth and social inclusion
In order for Canada to meet its international commitments and deliver real climate change solutions, the development and implementation of green infrastructure is required. Green infrastructure includes clean energy, low-carbon transportation, energy efficient buildings and climate-resilient infrastructure that supports the transition to a low-carbon economy.
NRCan’s investment in green infrastructure supports clean economic growth, and contributes to the lowering of total GHG emissions from vehicles. For example, NRCan plays a leading role in the demonstration and deployment of a coast-to-coast network of charging and refuelling stations for electric and low-emitting vehicles. This infrastructure is being installed along major roads, and in rural and urban areas across Canada.
FSDS GOAL: CLEAN ENERGY – All Canadians have access to affordable, reliable and sustainable energy
Continued progress is needed to support a clean energy future. To facilitate the transition to a low-carbon economy and make clean energy accessible for all Canadians, NRCan will continue to build on the recommendations of the Generation Energy Council Report.
As the federal leader for this goal, NRCan supports these efforts through a variety of initiatives including the development and implementation of a Hydrogen Strategy for Canada and contributes to the development of new technologies to support clean energy use across natural resource sectors.
NRCan continues to invest in emerging renewable energy projects, such as geothermal, tidal and next generation solar. The Department also continues to advance the generation of electricity from renewable sources in remote and northern communities, which reduces the reliance on diesel and supports the transition to more secure, affordable and clean energy.
NRCan is also updating energy efficiency standards for equipment and appliances, home labelling initiatives such as ENERGY STAR and the enhancement of the National Energy Code for Buildings. In addition, the Department supports the development of Smart Grids in Canada to better utilize existing electricity assets, lower GHG emissions and adopt secure, renewable energy, while also supporting ECCC in the development of the Clean Fuel Standard.
FSDS GOAL: HEALTHY COASTS AND OCEANS – Coasts and oceans support healthy, resilient and productive ecosystems
Canada has considerable ocean resources, and protecting our waters is crucial to the livelihood of Canadians. Increased development and marine shipping provide economic benefits, but they also pose the potential risk of oil spills, that have an environmental impact on our fisheries and coastlines. Ongoing research into the extent of Canada’s continental shelf in the Atlantic and Arctic Oceans supports implementation of international law as reflected in UNCLOS, which provides the legal framework for the conservation and sustainable use of oceans and their resources.
NRCan supports marine conservation measures by conducting scientific research and increasing knowledge related to marine geoscience that supports marine spatial planning; and the impacts of oil spills on Canada’s oceans. This knowledge informs decision-making by provincial / territorial partners and by oil spill responders and supports the Ocean Protection Plan.
FSDS GOAL: PRISTINE LAKES AND RIVERS – Clean and healthy lakes and rivers support economic prosperity and the well-being of Canadians
Healthy lakes and rivers sustain a rich variety of plants and animals. They also supply drinking water to millions of Canadians, provide opportunities for swimming, boating and recreational fishing, and support economic activities such as tourism, commercial fisheries, agriculture and shipping. These benefits for Canadians are threatened by pollution, climate change and invasive alien species of plants and animals.
NRCan supports the management of Canada’s freshwater resources by addressing research gaps in water mapping, measurement and modelling to advance research to improve the sound management Canada’s freshwater resources. For example, research that combines knowledge of groundwater aquifers and their links with surface water systems helps to build integrated models of water systems for sound, comprehensive water management by the provinces and territories.
FSDS GOAL: SUSTAINABLY MANAGED LANDS AND FORESTS – Lands and forests support biodiversity and provide a variety of ecosystem services for generations to come
Protecting and using lands and forests in a sustainable manner is necessary to ensure their long-term benefits for Canada. These benefits are diverse, and include protecting habitat for wildlife populations, supporting the well-being of Canadians through ecosystem services, contributing to the Canadian economy and preserving traditional uses of lands and forests for Indigenous peoples.
NRCan conducts research and provides information and advice to Provinces, Territories, Indigenous Peoples and the private sector to promote the protection, sustainable management, and efficient use of forest resources. The Department uses scientific research, technology and collaboration to protect forest resources from pest outbreaks, as well as from wildfire threats. NRCan also plays a large role in building capacity for Indigenous Peoples in connection to lands and forests. This includes the promotion of environmental stewardship, job creation, and the sustainable use and management of forest resources.
FSDS GOAL: SAFE AND HEALTHY COMMUNITIES – All Canadians live in clean, sustainable communities that contribute to their health and well-being
A clean, safe environment is vital to Canadians’ health and well-being. This means reducing pollution to improve air quality, protecting Canadians from harmful substances and preventing environmental emergencies, or reducing their impact if they do occur.
NRCan contributes to this FSDS Goal by preventing and mitigating the impacts of natural and human-made hazards. Geoscience that characterizes earthquake risks allow mitigation measures to be taken for critical infrastructure, reducing risks to Canadians. In addition, through its use of science and tools, NRCan also assists other organizations with disaster management and ecosystem monitoring.
NRCan also supports the development of scientific data to keep Canadians safe and minimize harmful impacts of hazards. This includes facilitating the collection of geospatial data to support national and international emergency management efforts. As well as, integrating new data streams collected from the RADARSAT Constellation Mission into emergency river and ice maps. These efforts enable first responders to better allocate resources and ultimately minimize damage during a crisis.
Section 3: Commitments for Natural Resources Canada
FSDS GOAL: EFFECTIVE ACTION ON CLIMATE CHANGE
A low-carbon economy contributes to limiting global average temperature rise to well below 2 degrees Celsius and supports efforts to limit the increase to 1.5 degrees Celsius
FSDS TARGET: By 2030, reduce Canada's total greenhouse gas emissions by 30%, relative to 2005 emission levels
FSDS Contributing Action: Provide support and funding for climate resilience
| Departmental Action | Performance Indicator, Starting Point and Target to Measure Result | How Our Departmental Action Supports the FSDS Contributing Action and Target | Alignment to SDGs and SDG Target | Program |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Build capacity for decision-making on climate resilience |
Performance Indicator: Percentage of target stakeholders reporting they have capacity to apply climate change adaptation tools and information for adaptation decision-making Communities Starting Point : 15% in 2017 Target: 25% by fall 2022 Businesses Starting Point: 51% in 2017 Target: 55% by fall 2022 |
NRCan advances climate change adaptation and resilience across Canada by synthesizing and disseminating multidisciplinary knowledge on climate change impacts and adaptation, identifying and addressing gaps in knowledge, fostering collaboration among business, communities and government, and supporting a wide variety of projects that increase the capacity of decision-makers to take action. Specifically, this work helps to implement new ways to adapt to the impacts of a changing climate on an ongoing basis. |
SDG Target 13.1: Strengthen resilience and adaptive capacity to climate-related hazards and natural disasters in all countries SDG Target 13.3: Improve education, awareness-raising and human and institutional capacity on climate change mitigation, adaptation, impact reduction and early warning |
Climate Change Adaptation |
Increase uptake and use of climate change mitigation, resilience and adaptation tools and information by decision-makers |
Performance Indicator: Number of times stakeholders acknowledge using NRCan’s scientific and technical products in making their decisions Starting Point: 4394 in 2017-18 Target: 7000 in 2021-22Footnote 3 |
Increasing the uptake of climate change mitigation and adaptation information means decision makers can better decide how to build the resilience of Canada’s forests and forest sector and contributes to meeting Canada’s GHG emissions reduction targets.Footnote 4 | SDG Target 13.1: Strengthen resilience and adaptive capacity to climate-related hazards and natural disasters in all countries SDG Target 13.3: Improve education, awareness-raising and human and institutional capacity on climate change mitigation, adaptation, impact reduction and early warning |
Forest Climate Change |
FSDS TARGET: By 2030, reduce Canada's total greenhouse gas emissions by 30%, relative to 2005 emission levels
FSDS Contributing Action: Work with partners on climate change
| Departmental Action | Performance Indicator, Starting Point and Target to Measure Result | How Our Departmental Action Supports the FSDS Contributing Action and Target | Alignment to SDGs and SDG Target | Program |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Advance clean growth and energy innovation research, development and demonstration (RD&D) in Canada’s natural resources and other sectors, particularly the built environment, industry, transportation and electricity |
Performance Indicator: Reduction in GHG emissions in megatons resulting from NRCan-funded clean growth and energy innovation demonstrations Starting Points: Clean Growth Program: N/A – new program, projects are not yet reporting on GHG reductions Energy Innovation Program: 1.32 megatons in direct annual reductions in 2018-19 Targets: Clean Growth Program: 0.3 to 0.7 megatons reduction in annual GHG emissions by 2027 Energy Innovation Program: 4.25 megatons in direct annual reductions in GHG emissions by 2030 |
The Clean Growth Program advances emerging clean technologies towards commercial readiness for Canada’s energy, mining and forestry sectors. Once commercialized, these clean technologies have the potential to contribute significantly to reductions in GHG emissions. |
SDG Target 9.5: Enhance scientific research, upgrade the technological capabilities of industrial sectors in all countries, in particular developing countries, including, by 2030, encouraging innovation and substantially increasing the number of research and development workers per 1 million people and public and private research and development spending SDG Target 13.3: Improve education, awareness-raising and human and institutional capacity on climate change mitigation, adaptation, impact reduction and early warning |
Energy Innovation and Clean TechnologyFootnote 5 |
FSDS TARGET: By 2030, reduce Canada's total greenhouse gas emissions by 30%, relative to 2005 emission levels
FSDS Contributing Action: Develop a solid base of scientific research and analysis on climate change
| Departmental Action | Performance Indicator, Starting Point and Target to Measure Result | How Our Departmental Action Supports the FSDS Contributing Action and Target | Alignment to SDGs and SDG Target | Program |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Enhance logistical support through the Polar Continental Shelf Program (PCSP) for scientific research conducted in the Canadian Arctic |
Performance Indicator: Number of scientific publications acknowledging Polar Continental Shelf Program support Starting Point: PCSP support was acknowledged in 125 publications in 2019-20 Target: 125 annually |
Field research conducted in Canada’s Arctic region with logistical assistance from the Polar Continental Shelf Program contributes to increased scientific research on the northern most parts of Canada. With increased scientific information, Canadians can make informed contributions to help reduce the impacts of climate change, like lowering GHG emissions. |
SDG Target 13.3 Improve education, awareness-raising and human and institutional capacity on climate change mitigation, adaptation, impact reduction and early warning |
Polar Continental Shelf program |
Support the development of technologies to reduce energy consumption and a reliance on diesel in mining and milling operations |
Performance Indicator: Percentage of innovative mining technologies developed by NRCan that move towards being ready for commercial use Starting Point: 0% in 2020-21 Target: 25% by March 31, 2022Footnote 6 |
Advancing green mining and transformative technologies along the Technology Readiness Level (TRL) scale ensures that those technologies are closer to commercialization and therefore adoption by industry. Adoption of green mining and transformative technologies is expected to have a direct impact on the reduction of GHG emissions in the minerals and metals industry. | SDG Target 9.4: By 2030, upgrade infrastructure and retrofit industries to make them sustainable, with increased resource-use efficiency and greater adoption of clean and environmentally sound technologies and industrial processes, with all countries taking action in accordance with their respective capabilities SDG Target 12.6: Encourage companies, especially larger and transnational companies, to adopt sustainable practices and to integrate sustainability information into their reporting cycle |
Green Mining Innovation |
Develop datasets of key national and regional environmental indicators from Earth observation data |
Performance Indicator: Number of products developed Starting Point: 3 products in 2019-20 Targets: 7 regional products by 2022-23Footnote 7 |
Providing baseline data, time series and change datasets of key environmental variables will greatly improve the scientific base for monitoring climate change and supporting environmental assessments (e.g., land cover, snow and ice, vegetation, permafrost, water storage). | SDG Target 13.2: Integrate climate change measures into national policies, strategies and planning SDG Target 13.3: Improve education, awareness-raising and human and institutional capacity on climate change mitigation, adaptation, impact reduction and early warning |
Innovative Geospatial Solutions |
Provide access to data and science with Canadian agencies and circumpolar countries to address a changing Arctic |
Performance Indicator: Number of relevant and validated Arctic datasets available through the Geoportal Starting Point: 148 map layers provided collaboratively by key and authoritative Arctic data providers (May 2019) Target: The same or increased map layers in 2022-23Footnote 8 |
Through the Arctic Spatial Data Infrastructure (Arctic SDI), NRCan leads Canada’s efforts with seven Arctic countries to integrate circumpolar data and science to address a changing Arctic, in support of federal Arctic priorities and Arctic Council. Arctic SDI shares and develops geospatial, hydrographic and scientific data with the support of policies, standards, technologies and governance. Climate change impacts are amplified in the Arctic and affect all circumpolar nations. Arctic SDI acts as a broker to simplify data integration via international standards. Canadians can make informed decisions to mitigate the impacts of climate change on the environment, society and economy. |
SDG Target 13.1: Strengthen resilience and adaptive capacity to climate-related hazards and natural disasters in all countries SDG Target 13.2: Integrate climate change measures into national policies, strategies and planning |
Innovative Geospatial Solutions |
Provide access to, archive and disseminate authoritative geospatial data to support climate change action and decision-making |
Performance Indicator: Number of images downloaded by federal departments from the Earth Observation Data Management System to support climate change decision-making Starting Point: Starting point to be determined 2020-21 Target: The same or increased downloads in 2021-22 |
Authoritative, accessible and timely geospatial data is key to developing effective scientific research and analysis in climate change, as it provides key information about land, water, and societies. The infrastructure and enabling actions that provide this geospatial data are a key driver of climate action globally, including mitigation and adaptation measures. Support for science, technology and innovation continuously improves this capability. |
SDG Target 13.1 Strengthen resilience and adaptive capacity to climate-related hazards and natural disasters in all countries SDG Target 13.2: Integrate climate change measures into national policies, strategies and planning |
Core Geospatial Data |
FSDS GOAL: GREENING GOVERNMENT
The Government of Canada will transition to low-carbon, climate-resilient, and green operations
FSDS TARGET: Real property and fleet - Reduce greenhouse gas emissions from federal government facilities and fleets by 40% 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: Real Property – 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
| Departmental Action | Performance Indicator, Starting Point and Target to Measure Result | How Our Departmental Action Supports the FSDS Contributing Action and Target | Alignment to SDGs and SDG Target | Program |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Provide training, advice and technical support to other federal organizations for greening their buildings and fleets |
Performance Indicator: Energy saved in terajoules (TJ) per year for all federal organization projects that received support from NRCan Starting Point: Energy consumption reduced by 14.37 TJ in 2018-19 Target: 750 TJ saved annually by 2030 |
NRCan supports the Treasury Board Secretariat Center for Greening Government by providing “a one-stop shop” for advice and technical support to other federal departments. This support will help federal organizations design and implement energy saving and GHG reduction projects in their facilities and deploy low-emission vehicles and charging stations. This work will also support the Center for Greening Government develop a centralized GHG inventory tool for reporting, monitoring and public disclosure of federal GHG emissions. |
SDG Target 13.2: Integrate climate change measures into national policies, strategies and planning |
Lower Carbon Transportation Energy Efficiency |
Continue to support the implementation of a federal action plan to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from federal buildings and fleetsFootnote 9 |
Performance Indicator: Percentage change in greenhouse gas emissions annually from facilities and fleets Starting Point: Baseline from facilities and fleets from 2005-06 (32.04 ktCO2eq) Target: 40% reduction by 2030 |
Once implemented, federal action plans that improve energy efficiency can significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions by federally managed facilities and fleets. Energy efficiency measures adopted at NRCan for its fleets, buildings and scientific laboratories across Canada collectively support the Department’s contributions to the target for 40% reductions by 2030. |
SDG Target 13.2: Integrate climate change measures into national policies, strategies and planning |
Internal Services |
FSDS TARGET: Real property and fleet – Diverts at least 75% (by weight) of non-hazardous operational waste from landfills by 2030
FSDS Contributing Action: Real property - In all new domestic office leases and lease renewals for space than more than 500 square metres, landlords must report building energy and water usage and waste generated using EnergySTAR Portfolio Manager
| Departmental Action | Performance Indicator, Starting Point and Target to Measure Result | How Our Departmental Action Supports the FSDS Contributing Action and Target | Alignment to SDGs and SDG Target | Program |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Improve management of the use and disposal of non-hazardous operational waste in NRCan’s operations |
Performance Indicator: Percentage diversion of non-hazardous operational waste from landfills Starting Point: TBD after baseline audit Target: 75% by March 31, 2030 |
Improve management of the use and disposal of non-hazardous operational waste in NRCan’s operations by doing audits, and building occupant awareness/communication to maximize existing program use will help the Government of Canada to transition toward greener operations. |
SDG Target 13.2: Integrate climate change measures into national policies, strategies and planning |
Internal Services |
Improve management of the use and disposal of plastics in NRCan’s operations |
Performance Indicator: Percentage diversion of plastic from landfills Starting Point: TBD after baseline audit Target: 75% by March 31, 2030 |
Improve management of the use and disposal of plastic in NRCan’s operations by doing audits, and building occupant awareness/communication to maximize existing program use will help the Government of Canada to transition toward greener operations. |
SDG Target 13.2: Integrate climate change measures into national policies, strategies and planning |
Internal Services |
FSDS TARGET: Procurement – Use 100% clean electricity by 2025
FSDS Contributing Action: Procurement - Departments will use environmental criteria to reduce the environmental impact and ensure best value in government procurement decisions
| Departmental Action | Performance Indicator, Starting Point and Target to Measure Result | How Our Departmental Action Supports the FSDS Contributing Action and Target | Alignment to SDGs and SDG Target | Program |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Increase the use of clean electricity in all NRCan buildings |
Performance Indicator: Percentage of NRCan buildings that are using clean electricity Starting Point: 80% in 2018-19 Target: 100% by March 31, 2025 |
By adopting the use of clean electricity in NRCan’s buildings through Public Services and Procurement Canada’s (PSPC) upcoming Power Purchase Agreement (PPA), NRCan will be contributing to the Government of Canada objective to greening its procurement, lowering its emissions and encouraging the transition to the clean economy. PSPC’s PPA is expected to be in place before 2025. |
SDG Target 13.2: Integrate climate change measures into national policies, strategies and planning |
Internal Services |
FSDS GOAL: CLEAN GROWTH
A growing clean technology industry in Canada contributes to clean growth and the transition to a low-carbon economy
FSDS TARGET: Implement our Mission Innovation pledge to double federal government investments in clean energy research, development and demonstration from 2015 levels of $387 million to $775 million by 2020
FSDS Contributing Action: Invest in clean technologies
| Departmental Action | Performance Indicator, Starting Point and Target to Measure Result | How Our Departmental Action Supports the FSDS Contributing Action and Target | Alignment to SDGs and SDG Target | Program |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Invest in initiatives on clean energy research, development and demonstration (RD&D) through Mission Innovation, in collaboration with partners |
Performance Indicator: Federal investments in clean energy RD&D Starting Point: $387 million in 2014-15 Target: $775 million by March 31, 2020Footnote 10 |
NRCan tracks clean energy RD&D investments across all departments to report on the Government of Canada’s commitment to double total federal investments under Mission Innovation. These investments in Canadian clean energy RD&D strengthen Canada’s contributions to reducing negative environmental impacts like GHG emissions. |
SDG Target 17.16: Enhance the global partnership for sustainable development, complemented by multi-stakeholder partnerships that mobilize and share knowledge, expertise, technology and financial resources, to support the achievement of the sustainable development goals in all countries, in particular developing countries |
Energy Innovation and Clean TechnologyFootnote 11 |
Continue to implement the Clean Growth Hub’s mandate to helpFootnote 12 clean technology stakeholders navigate federal innovation programs and services |
Performance indicator: Percentage of surveyed Clean Growth Hub clients satisfied with the quality of the Clean Growth Hub’s service Starting point: 64% in 2018-19 Target: 70% in 2021-22Footnote 13 |
NRCan and ISED lead the Clean Growth Hub to provide a single point of contact for clean technology producers and adopters, streamlining access to government services and expertise, and improving information sharing between federal departments and agencies. Support provided by the Clean Growth Hub helps clean technology stakeholders bring their innovations from the laboratory to foreign markets.Footnote 14 |
SDG Target 9.5: Enhance scientific research, upgrade the technological capabilities of industrial sectors in all countries, in particular developing countries, including, by 2030, encouraging innovation and substantially increasing the number of research and development workers per 1 million people and public and private research and development spending |
Energy Innovation and Clean TechnologyFootnote 15 |
Performance indicator: Percentage of surveyed Clean Growth Hub clients that acted on the advice or information provided by the Clean Growth Hub (such as applied to government programs) Starting point: 65% in 2018-19 Target: 70% in 2021-22Footnote 16 |
FSDS TARGET: Implement our Mission Innovation pledge to double federal government investments in clean energy research, development and demonstration from 2015 levels of $387 million to $775 million by 2020
FSDS Contributing Action: Develop our understanding of the clean technology landscape in Canada
| Departmental Action | Performance Indicator, Starting Point and Target to Measure Result | How Our Departmental Action Supports the FSDS Contributing Action and Target | Alignment to SDGs and SDG Target | Program |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Advance the Clean Technology Data Strategy, including the collection and analysis of clean technology program data, and the public dissemination of clean technology sector dataFootnote 17 |
Performance indicator: Percentage of clean technology programs whose data is consolidated into a Government of Canada database on clean technology |
The Clean Technology Data Strategy aims to ensure data is available to understand the economic and environmental contribution of clean technologies in Canada. Better data strengthens the evidence-base for decisions, improves the understanding of the emerging clean technology landscape, and ensures the creation of impactful policies and programs to support the production and adoption of clean technology. |
SDG Target 9.5: Enhance scientific research, upgrade the technological capabilities of industrial sectors in all countries, in particular developing countries, including, by 2030, encouraging innovation and substantially increasing the number of research and development workers per 1 million people and public and private research and development spending |
Energy Innovation and Clean TechnologyFootnote 19 |
Performance indicator: Total number of website visits from related Statistics Canada, ISED, and Government of Canada webpages on clean technology data |
FSDS GOAL: MODERN AND RESILIENT INFRASTRUCTURE
Modern, sustainable, and resilient infrastructure supports clean economic growth and social inclusion
FSDS TARGET: By the end of the 2027-2028 fiscal year, invest $26.9 billion in funding for green infrastructure initiatives that reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve climate resilience and environment quality
FSDS Contributing Action: Support low-carbon, resilient infrastructure
| Departmental Action | Performance Indicator, Starting Point and Target to Measure Result | How Our Departmental Action Supports the FSDS Contributing Action and Target | Alignment to SDGs and SDG Target | Program |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Install additional charging and refueling stations along Canada’s highly travelled routes |
Performance Indicator: Number of low-carbon recharging and refueling stations under development and completed along major highways, and in rural and urban areas across Canada Starting Point: 526 EV chargers, 12 natural gas stations, 6 hydrogen stations in 2018-19 Target:By March 31, 2024, a total of:
under development and completed |
Improving the availability of charging and refueling stations helps reduce barriers for Canadians in using clean transportation options like low emissions vehicles. NRCan’s investment in this green infrastructure supports clean economic growth and contributes to lowering total GHG emissions from vehicles. NRCan also plays a leading role in the demonstration and deployment of charging stations for electric and low emitting vehicles. This infrastructure is being installed along major highways, and in rural and urban areas across Canada. |
SDG Target 9.4: By 2030, upgrade infrastructure and retrofit industries to make them sustainable, with increased resource-use efficiency and greater adoption of clean and environmentally sound technologies and industrial processes, with all countries taking action in accordance with their respective capabilities |
Lower Carbon Transportation |
Deploy new zero-emission vehicle infrastructure in public places, on-street, at apartment buildings, retail outlets, and the workplace, and other strategic projects |
Performance Indicator: Number of low-carbon recharging and refueling stations under development and completed in public places, on-street, at apartment buildings, retail outlets, and the workplace Starting Point: This is a new program established in 2019-20 Target:20,000 chargers under development and completed by March 31, 2026 |
Improving the availability of charging and refueling stations helps reduce barriers for Canadians in using clean transportation options like low emissions vehicles. NRCan’s investment in this green infrastructure supports clean economic growth and contributes to lowering total greenhouse gas emissions from vehicles. |
SDG Target 9.4: By 2030, upgrade infrastructure and retrofit industries to make them sustainable, with increased resource-use efficiency and greater adoption of clean and environmentally sound technologies and industrial processes, with all countries taking action in accordance with their respective capabilities |
Lower Carbon Transportation |
Support demonstration projects in order to identify problems and create innovative solutions related to the implementation of electric and hydrogen vehicle infrastructure |
Performance Indicator: Number of demonstration projects since launch of Green Infrastructure program Starting Point: 5 projects as of 2018-19 Target: 5-8 demonstration projects completed by March 31, 2024 |
NRCan contributes to the reduction of GHG emissions and climate change resiliency by ensuring the optimal functionality of electric vehicles through rigorous testing and demonstrations. |
SDG Target 7.3: By 2030, double the global rate of improvement in energy efficiency |
Energy Innovation and Clean TechnologyFootnote 21 |
Support demonstration projects in order to identify problems and create innovative solutions related to the implementation of energy efficient and net-zero energy building technologies |
Performance Indicator: Number of demonstrations since launch of Green Infrastructure program Starting Point: 5 projects as of 2018-19 Target: At least 12 high-efficiency demonstration projects by 2026 |
NRCan contributes to the reduction of GHG emissions and climate change resiliency by ensuring the optimal functionality of energy efficient and net-zero energy building technologies through rigorous testing and demonstrations. |
SDG Target 7.3: By 2030, double the global rate of improvement in energy efficiency |
Energy Innovation and Clean TechnologyFootnote 22 |
FSDS GOAL: CLEAN ENERGY
All Canadians have access to affordable, reliable and sustainable energy
FSDS TARGET: By 2030, 90% and in the long term 100% of Canada’s electricity is generated from renewable and non-emitting sources
FSDS Contributing Action: Promote collaboration and work with partners on clean energy infrastructure
| Departmental Action | Performance Indicator, Starting Point and Target to Measure Result | How Our Departmental Action Supports the FSDS Contributing Action and Target | Alignment to SDGs and SDG Target | Program |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Support the use of renewable and non-emitting energy sources for electrification of upstream gas and liquefied natural gas (LNG) production to displace higher-emitting fuels in Canada and abroad |
Performance Indicator: Number of electrification projects built or under construction Starting Point: 1 in 2019 Target: 3 by 2024 |
NRCan’s action supports the Memorandum of Understanding between the Government of Canada and the Government of British Columbia (BC) on Electrification of the Natural Gas Sector, to reduce GHG emissions in upstream gas and LNG. As of 2020, the two governments are considering $680M in near term projects for joint funding that would expand transmission to enable electrification of BC’s upstream natural gas industry. |
SDG Target 7.1: By 2030, ensure universal access to affordable, reliable and modern energy services SDG Target 7.2: By 2030, increase substantially the share of renewable energy in the global energy mix SDG Target 9.4: By 2030, upgrade infrastructure and retrofit industries to make them sustainable, with increased resource-use efficiency and greater adoption of clean and environmentally sound technologies and industrial processes, with all countries taking action in accordance with their respective capabilities |
Electricity Resources Energy Safety and Security, and Petroleum Resources |
Advance RD&D for clean energy technologies |
Performance Indicator: Ratio of program investments in clean energy RD&D to leveraged funding from partners Starting Point: 3:1 in 2018-19Footnote 23 Target: 1:1 ratio annually |
RD&D in technologies for clean energy production strengthens Canada’s capacity to use electricity from renewable and non-emitting sources of energy. These scientific advances support Canada’s progress towards the FSDS target for clean energy use by 2030. |
SDG Target 9.4: By 2030, upgrade infrastructure and retrofit industries to make them sustainable, with increased resource-use efficiency and greater adoption of clean and environmentally sound technologies and industrial processes, with all countries taking action in accordance with their respective capabilities |
Energy Innovation and Clean TechnologyFootnote 24 |
Continue to invest in the deployment of smart grid integrated systems and the demonstration of next generation smart grid technologies, in collaboration with partners |
Performance Indicator: Number of new or emerging smart grid projects supported since launch of Green Infrastructure programs Starting Point: 26 projects supported as of 2019-20 Target: 28 projects supported by March 31, 2022Footnote 25 |
Smart grids help to ensure a safer and more secure delivery of electricity to Canadians, and helps reduce electricity waste and energy costs. By supporting the development and use of new demonstration and deployment technologies for smart grid systems, the Smart Grid program helps to reduce GHG emissions and optimize the utilization of existing electricity assetsFootnote 26 |
SDG Target 7.2: By 2030, increase substantially the share of renewable energy in the global energy mix SDG Target 9.4: By 2030, upgrade infrastructure and retrofit industries to make them sustainable, with increased resource-use efficiency and greater adoption of clean and environmentally sound technologies and industrial processes, with all countries taking action in accordance with their respective capabilities |
Electricity Resources Energy Innovation and Clean TechnologyFootnote 27 |
Invest in emerging renewable energy projects, such as geothermal, tidal and next generation solar |
Performance Indicator: Percentage of Canadian electricity generated from non-greenhouse gas emitting sources Starting Point: 82% Target: At least 90% by March 2030 |
Support the generation of electricity from renewable sources by providing support to the development of innovative renewable technologies that are not yet established in Canada through the Emerging Renewables program. |
SDG Target 7.2 By 2030, increase substantially the share of renewable energy in the global energy |
Electricity Resources |
FSDS TARGET: By 2030, 90% and in the long term 100% of Canada’s electricity is generated from renewable and non-emitting sources
FSDS Contributing Action: Support voluntary action to reduce greenhouse gas and air pollutant emissions through clean energy generation and consumption
| Departmental Action | Performance Indicator, Starting Point and Target to Measure Result | How Our Departmental Action Supports the FSDS Contributing Action and Target | Alignment to SDGs and SDG Target | Program |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Continue to advance the generation of energy from renewable sources in rural and remote communities |
Performance Indicator: Number of renewable energy projects supported in rural and remote communities and off-grid industrial operations Starting Point: 33 projects supported as of 2018-19 Target: 65 to 95 by 2030 |
Through the Clean Energy for Rural and Remote Communities (CERRC) program, funding the deployment and demonstration of renewable energy projects contributes to reductions in diesel dependency in these communities. These industry-and community-led projects support the transition to clean energy generation, contributing over the long-term to the sustainability of Canada’s natural resources. |
SDG Target 7.2: By 2030, increase substantially the share of renewable energy in the global energy mix |
Electricity Resources Energy Innovation and Clean TechnologyFootnote 28 Forest Sector Competitiveness |
FSDS TARGET: By 2030, 600 petajoules of total annual energy savings will be achieved as a result of adoption and energy efficiency codes, standards and practices from a baseline savings of 27.4Footnote 29 petajoules in 2017-2018
FSDS Contributing Action: Reduce energy costs and work with partners to increase energy efficiency
| Departmental Action | Performance Indicator, Starting Point and Target to Measure Result | How Our Departmental Action Supports the FSDS Contributing Action and Target | Alignment to SDGs and SDG Target | Program |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Improve energy efficiency in the industrial sector using energy management systems such as ISO 50001, the Superior Energy Performance program, and the ENERGY STAR® or other industry programs |
Performance Indicator: Energy savings (petajoules) from industrial energy efficiency programs Starting Point: 3.5 petajoules saved in 2018-19 Target: 117 petajoules saved annually in 2030 |
These programs, help to improve energy management in Canada's industrial sector, by helping businesses to track, analyze, and improve their energy efficiency. These programs include implementation of energy management systems such as ISO 50001 and Superior Energy Performance, as well as other energy management activities, like benchmarking using tools such as the ENERGY STAR for Industry Program and the completion of studies, in particular Process Integration Studies. The department also provides financial assistance for industrial, commercial and institutional facilities, and fleets to identify and adopt energy efficiency solutions through the Energy Manager Program. |
SDG Target 7.3: By 2030, double the global rate of improvement in energy efficiency |
Energy Efficiency |
Improve energy efficiency in new and existing buildings by enhancing the National Energy Code for Buildings by 2020 to include net zero-energy-ready tiers through 2030 and extending the application of the Code to existing buildings; as well as certifying high-performing commercial and institutional buildings through the ENERGY STAR® Portfolio Manager |
Performance Indicator: Energy savings (petajoules) from building codes Starting Point: 3.8 petajoules saved in 2018-19 Target: 132.6 petajoules saved annually in 2030 |
Improved Building Codes requirements for the building sector in Canada will lead to enhanced energy efficient building practices and technologies. These Codes will help us achieve our target of net zero-energy-ready building code by 2030. Benchmarking tools allow building owners to compare their energy use and prompt them to make improvements, while certification programs recognize higher energy performing buildings. These activities, as outlined in Build Smart: Canada’s Buildings Strategy, support the work to build energy labelling and disclosure frameworks, and more stringent model building energy codes for new and existing buildings. |
SDG Target 7.3: By 2030, double the global rate of improvement in energy efficiency |
Energy Efficiency |
Improve the energy efficiency of Canadian homes (through the EnerGuide, ENERGY STAR® and R-2000 home labelling initiatives) |
Performance Indicator: Energy savings (petajoules) from energy efficiency programs in housing Starting Point: 3.19 petajoules in 2018-19 Target: 133.7 petajoules saved annually in 2030 |
Improved energy efficiency of the housing sector in Canada will be achieved through the regulation of mandatory labelling and disclosure of energy use by the provinces and territories, and the adoption and implementation of energy efficient technologies and practices, and the construction of more efficient housing. Promoting highly energy efficient new construction influences the future building stock and sets Canada on the road to innovation and a net-zero energy future. Through this activity, as outlined in Build Smart: Canada’s Buildings Strategy, we will be engaging with and seeking to support jurisdictions in their efforts to advance towards regulation of labelling and disclosure of energy use.Footnote 30. |
SDG Target 7.3: By 2030, double the global rate of improvement in energy efficiency |
Energy Efficiency |
Enhance energy efficiency with increasingly stringent minimum energy performance standards under the Energy Efficiency Regulations and promote increased energy efficiency through the voluntary Energy Star appliances program. |
Performance Indicator: Energy savings (petajoules) from regulated products and market transformation Starting Point: 16.25 petajoules saved in 2018-19 Target: 219.5 petajoules saved annually in 2030 |
By setting minimum energy performance standards, NRCan improve the energy performance of appliances and equipment sold for homes and buildings across Canada and contribute to improved energy efficiency. In addition, through the administration of the ENERGY STAR for Products program, we encourage and promote consumer purchases of high-efficiency products. In support of these activities, as outlined in Build Smart: Canada’s Buildings Strategy, we will continue to set ambitious energy efficiency targets for appliances and equipment. |
SDG Target 7.3: By 2030, double the global rate of improvement in energy efficiency |
Energy Efficiency |
FSDS GOAL: HEALTHY COASTS AND OCEANS
Coasts and oceans support healthy, resilient and productive ecosystems
FSDS TARGET: By 2020, 10% of coastal and marine areas are conserved through networks of marine protected areas and other effective area-based conservation measures
FSDS Contributing Action: Work with partners to protect and restore coastal ecosystems
| Departmental Action | Performance Indicator, Starting Point and Target to Measure Result | How Our Departmental Action Supports the FSDS Contributing Action and Target | Alignment to SDGs and SDG Target | Program |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Conduct science to improve the knowledge of diluted bitumen fate, behaviour, and natural degradation end-points when spilled into aqueous environments as part of the Oceans Protection Plan |
Performance Indicator: Number of publications and conference presentations Starting Point: 0 in 2020-21 Target: 4 by 2021-22 |
Developing knowledge of diluted bitumen fate, behaviour and natural degradation end-points informs environmental assessments as well as clean up methods and evidence-based decision-making in the event of spills to ensure Canada’s coastal ecosystems are protected, restored and remain healthy for generations to come. |
SDG Target 14.5: By 2020, conserve at least 10 percent of coastal and marine areas, consistent with national and international law and based on the best available scientific information |
Energy Innovation and Clean TechnologyFootnote 31 |
Advance marine geoscience information to support marine spatial planning with federal, provincial and territorial partners |
Performance Indicator: Number of new, openly accessible, marine geoscience data products to be used by stakeholders for effective management of marine areas. Starting Point: 0 in 2020-21 Target: 16 by 2023-24 |
Developing new maps and analyses of seafloor geology and active seabed processes inform evidence-based marine spatial planning and regional environmental assessments to support Regional Environmental and Cumulative Effects Assessment processes. |
SDG Target 14.2: By 2020, sustainably manage and protect marine and coastal ecosystems to avoid significant adverse impacts, including by strengthening their resilience, and take action for their restoration in order to achieve healthy and productive oceans |
Geological Knowledge for Canada’s Onshore and Offshore Land |
Conserve 25% of coastal and marine areas through networks of protected areas and other effective area-based conservation measures |
Indicator: Number of completed resource and economic assessments for areas proposed by Fisheries and Oceans Canada and Parks Canada to help Canada achieve its goal of protecting 10% of Canada’s coastal and marine area (as a percentage of total marine territory) by 2020 and 25% by 2024 Starting point: By 2020, at end of original Marine Conservation Targets, NRCan had delivered 14 resource or economic assessments to help meet the government target of 10% conservation by 2020. The reported achievement for 2020 conservation was 13.5% of marine and coastal areas. Target: 17 qualitative or quantitative resource and economic assessments released over 3 years, by the end of 2023-24. |
Marine protected areas cannot be established without a resource assessment being performed. NRCan reports cover the areas of DFO and Parks Canada proposed marine conservation areas, allowing the Federal Government to proceed with the process to establish conservation areas and meet its targets. Complete resource and economic assessments to support the establishment of marine protected areas under the Marine Conservation Target initiative. Develop new maps and analyses of seafloor geology and active seabed processes to inform evidence-based marine spatial planning and regional environmental assessments to support Regional Environmental and Cumulative Effects Assessment processes. |
SDG Target 14.2: By 2020, sustainably manage and protect marine and coastal ecosystems to avoid significant adverse impacts, including by strengthening their resilience, and taking action in their restoration to achieve healthy and productive oceans. |
Geoscience for Sustainable Development of Natural Resources |
| Continue to undertake science activities to support Canada’s continental shelf submissions in the Atlantic Ocean and Arctic Ocean beyond 200 nautical miles and advise Global Affairs Canada on scientific and technical issues.Footnote 32 | Performance Indicator: Post-submission NRCan science activities that aim at securing international recognition of Canada’s outer limits beyond the 200 nautical mile Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) Starting Point: Canada has met its obligation as a party to United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) to define its continental shelf by filling its Atlantic Ocean (2013) and Arctic Ocean (2019) submissions Target: International recognition of Canada’s outer limits, which will become our last international boundariesFootnote 33 |
Canada demonstrates its entitlement to 2.4 million sq. km of seafloor in the Atlantic and Arctic Oceans. A successful defense of these submissions before the United Nations Commission on the Limits of the Continental Shelf will support progress towards FSDS targets for marine conservation and protection in the Atlantic Ocean and Arctic Ocean beyond Canada’s EEZ. In addition, International recognition of Canada’s outer limits in the Atlantic and Arctic Oceans gives sovereign rights over the living and non-living natural resources on the seafloor and subsoil, supporting conservation and marine protection beyond the 200 nautical mile EEZ. | SDG Target 14.c: Enhance the conservation and sustainable use of oceans and their resources by implementing international law as reflected in United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, which provides the legal framework for the conservation and sustainable use of oceans and their resources | Geological Knowledge for Canada’s Onshore and Offshore Land |
FSDS GOAL: PRISTINE LAKES AND RIVERS
Clean and healthy lakes and rivers support economic prosperity and the well-being of Canadians
FSDS TARGET: N/AFootnote 34
FSDS Contributing Action: Better understand lake and river ecosystems
| Departmental Action | Performance Indicator, Starting Point and Target to Measure Result | How Our Departmental Action Supports the FSDS Contributing Action and Target | Alignment to SDGs and SDG Target | Program |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Support addressing research gaps in water mapping, measurement and modelling |
Performance Indicator: Percentage of annual improvement of foundation geospatial data that includes water maps in Canada, which is measured as the sum of geometry improvements, attribute improvements, and geographical coverage increases Starting Point: National Hydro Network footprint in 2019-20 Target: 10% average annual improvement |
Increased access to surface water data to advance scientific research and improve the sound management of Canada’s freshwater resources. These contributions can support the assessment and impacts of cumulative effects and surface water dynamics in relation to their catchments and or watersheds. |
SDG Target 13.3 Improve education, awareness-raising and human and institutional capacity on climate change mitigation, adaptation, impact reduction and early warning |
Core Geospatial Data |
Advance knowledge in groundwater availability, flow dynamic and its overall water cycle to inform provinces and territories and contribute to sustainable water management and protection efforts.Footnote 35 |
Performance Indicator: Number of scientific publications that address Canadian groundwater knowledge gap Starting Point: 21 annual publications in the groundwater geoscience program 2019-20 Target: 15 publications on groundwater in 2021-22Footnote 36 |
Clean and healthy lakes and rivers support economic prosperity and the well-being of Canadians, including the supplying of drinking water to millions of Canadians. The study of groundwater is directly linked to surface water. | SDG Target 13.3 Improve education, awareness-raising and human and institutional capacity on climate change mitigation, adaptation, impact reduction and early warning | Geoscience for Sustainable Development of Natural Resources |
FSDS GOAL: SUSTAINABLY MANAGED LANDS AND FORESTS
Lands and forests support biodiversity and provide a variety of ecosystem services for generations to come
FSDS TARGET: Between now and 2022, maintain Canada’s annual timber harvest at or below sustainable wood supply levels
FSDS Contributing Action: Better understand lands and forests
| Departmental Action | Performance Indicator, Starting Point and Target to Measure Result | How Our Departmental Action Supports the FSDS Contributing Action and Target | Alignment to SDGs and SDG Target | Program |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Develop innovative forest products and decision tools that strengthen knowledge of forest ecosystems and contribute to the environmental sustainability of Canada’s forests |
Performance Indicator: Percentage of innovative forest products and decision tools informed by NRCan research that contributes to the Environmental Sustainability of Canada’s forests Starting Point: 100% Target: 90% annually |
NRCan develops scientific knowledge products and decision making tools about Canada’s forests that are used by forest decision makers (e.g., provinces, territories, Canadian industry, private land owners, etc.) to enable sustainable forest management. NRCan products and tools contribute to a better understanding of forest conditions and changes in response to natural disturbance, climate change and forest management practices. Ultimately, this helps to maintain sustainable wood supply levels and supports an annual sustainable timber harvest. |
SDG Target 15.2: By 2020, promote the implementation of sustainable management of all types of forests, halt deforestation, restore degraded forests and substantially increase afforestation and reforestation globally |
Sustainable Forest Management Fibre Solutions Cumulative Effects |
Advance science and technology on forest health protection |
Performance Indicator: Number of NRCan publications pertaining to forest pests and related risks, surveillance solutions, and response solutions that are developed annually Starting Point: 52 in 2018-19 Target: 52 publications or more annually |
Outbreaks of native forest insects and diseases and introduction of invasive alien species, result in reduction in Footnote 37 tree growth and mortality. Advancing pest risk management science and technology to prevent, prepare for, and respond to pests supports the protection of forest health across Canada and promotes sustainable wood supply levels. |
SDG Target 15.2: By 2020, promote the implementation of sustainable management of all types of forests, halt deforestation, restore degraded forests and substantially increase afforestation and reforestation globally SDG Target 15.8: By 2020, introduce measures to prevent the introduction and significantly reduce the impact of invasive alien species on land and water ecosystems and control or eradicate the priority speciesFootnote 38 |
Pest Risk Management |
FSDS TARGET: Between now and 2022, maintain Canada’s annual timber harvest at or below wood supply levels
FSDS Contributing Action: Work with domestic and international partners
| Departmental Action | Performance Indicator, Starting Point and Target to Measure Result | How Our Departmental Action Supports the FSDS Contributing Action and Target | Alignment to SDGs and SDG Target | Program |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Support sustainable management of Canada’s forests, in collaboration with provinces and territories |
Performance Indicator: Amount in cubic meter (m3) of wood harvested annually compared to sustainable wood supply Starting Point: 155 million m3 total harvest versus 223 million m3 in wood supply in 2016 (SoF, 2018) Target: Annual timber harvest is at or below sustainable wood supply levels |
Sustainable forest management is a shared responsibility across all governments, the private sector and civil society for using and caring for forests to maintain their environmental, social and economic value and benefits over time. NRCan promotes responsible and transparent practices in the forest sector and supports provinces and territories in their role as forest managers to help ensure Canada’s forests are sustainable for years to come. |
SDG Target 15.2: By 2020, promote the implementation of sustainable management of all types of forests, halt deforestation, restore degraded forests and substantially increase afforestation and reforestation globally |
Sustainable Forest Management |
FSDS GOAL: SAFE AND HEALTHY COMMUNITIES
All Canadians live in clean, sustainable communities that contribute to their health and well-being
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: Prevent environmental emergencies or mitigate their impact
| Departmental Action | Performance Indicator, Starting Point and Target to Measure Result | How Our Departmental Action Supports the FSDS Contributing Action and Target | Alignment to SDGs and SDG Target | Program |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Integrate new data streams from the RADARSAT Constellation Mission (RCM) into production of emergency river ice and flood maps through new automated tools |
Performance Indicator: Percentage of flood tools used in Emergency Geomatics Service (EGS) workflows transmitted are automated to cloud infrastructure Starting Point: EGS image processing system is 100% desktop based Target: 100% of operations running in the CloudFootnote 39 |
With full integration of RCM data in the production of river ice and flood maps through new automated tools, EGS products will be produced more frequently and at higher accuracy, enhancing situational awareness and enabling emergency responders to better allocate resources to minimize damage during crises, contributing to safe and healthy communities. |
SDG Target 13.1: Strengthen resilience and adaptive capacity to climate-related hazards and natural disasters in all countries SDG Target 13.3: Improve education, awareness-raising and human and institutional capacity on climate change mitigation, adaptation, impact reduction and early warning |
Core Geospatial Data |
Facilitate provision of geospatial data to support national and international emergency management efforts |
Performance Indicator: Percentage of responses to International Charter: Space and Major Disasters requests Starting Point: 100% in 2019-20 Target: Respond to 100% of Charter requests in 2022-23Footnote 40 |
Geospatial information provided under the International Charter allows timely and vital data to emergency responders around the world. It can help to both track the impact of disasters, and monitor rebuilding and relief efforts, directly contributing to disaster mitigation and improving community health and well-being. This geospatial data is acquired through satellite ground stations, including those managed by NRCan. |
SDI Target 11.5: By 2030, significantly reduce the number of deaths and the number of people affected and substantially decrease the direct economic losses relative to global gross domestic product caused by disasters, including water-related disasters, with a focus on protecting the poor and people in vulnerable situations SDG Target 13.1: Strengthen resilience and adaptive capacity to climate-related hazards and natural disasters in all countries |
Core Geospatial Data |
Section 4: Integrating sustainable development
Sustainable development is central to the mandate of NRCan and essential to the future of the natural resources sector. NRCan is responsible for ensuring the sustainable development of Canada’s energy resources, minerals and metals, and forests, and for providing the geographical and geological information that supports decisions about Canada’s land-based and offshore resources and the management of these lands.
NRCan will continue to ensure that its decision-making process consider FSDS goals and targets through its Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) process. A SEA for a policy, plan or program proposal includes an analysis of the impacts of the given proposal on the environment, including on relevant FSDS goals and targets. The process for a SEA at NRCan includes three steps:
- The first step explores if there is any potential for important environmental effects. All proposals going to Cabinet or the Minister are subject to this step. Proposals where it is certain that environmental effects will not be important stop at this level of analysis.
- If there is any uncertainty, further analysis is undertaken at this level.
- If the analysis at level two identifies the potential for important environmental effects or sources of public concern, then the proposal moves to level three, or full SEA under the Cabinet Directive, meeting all of the requirements of the Cabinet Directive, including a Public Statement.
All three steps of analysis include explicit instructions to link the proposal to the 2019-22 FSDS Goals and NRCan’s 2020-23 DSDS, where applicable.
Public statements on the results of NRCan’s assessments are made public when an initiative has undergone a detailed SEA (see NRCan's Public Statements Listing). The purpose of the public statement is to demonstrate that the environmental effects, including the impacts on achieving the FSDS goals and targets, of the approved policy, plan or program have been considered during proposal development and decision making.
As part of its ongoing monitoring for initiatives related to sustainable development, functional reviews of policy, plan or program proposals are also conducted as part of their development. Alignments of these new initiatives to the FSDS Goals and Targets are identified to help track how the Department contributes to sustainable development.
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