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Key risks: things that could affect our ability to achieve our plans and results

This section describes the key risks – both threats, which are negative risks, and opportunities, which are positive risks – that could impede NRCan’s ability to deliver on its mandate. 

These risks would stem from failing to anticipate trends or events, and then responding with appropriate changes in strategy, policy objectives or program design.  

Key risks
Risks Risk response strategy Link to the department’s Programs Link to mandate letter commitments or to government-wide and departmental priorities
Climate Change Adaptation and Mitigation:
If energy and natural resource decisions do not support Canada’s transition to a low carbon economy and adoption of adequate adaptation measures, Canada’s climate change commitment to reduce GHG emissions by 30 percent may not be met, the competiveness of our natural resource sectors may be undermined and communities may become increasingly more vulnerable to the impacts of climate change.  
Adaptation
  • Budget 2016 funding on Climate Adaptation to ensure stakeholders have access to new knowledge, innovative mining technologies and practices and scientific knowledge on forest disturbances.
  • NRCan science on climate change impacts on mine waste and water management, and the provision of geospatial products and reports in support of climate change impacts on the north and forest regions.
  • Lead the work of the multi-stakeholder Adaptation Platform to equip the public and private sector with tools and information for climate change adaptation-related decision-making.
Mitigation
  • Budget 2016 included $326 million in support of clean energy and GHG reduction technologies, energy efficiency policies and program and green infrastructure.
  • Collaborate with other government departments, provinces and territories on GHG reduction programs and activities as per the Canadian Energy Strategy and the Pan-Canadian Framework on Clean Growth and Climate Change.
Canada’s Natural Resource Sectors are Globally Competitive

Natural Resource Sectors and Consumers are Environmentally Responsible

Canadians have Information to Manage their Lands and Natural Resources, and are Protected from Related Risks
Government Priorities:
Effective Action on Climate Change

Greater Safety and Security for Canadians.

Mandate Letter:
Implementation of the Pan-Canadian Framework on Climate Change and Clean Growth

Implementation of the North American Memorandum of Understanding on Climate Change and Energy Collaboration

Collaboration with Provinces and Territories to Advance the Canadian Energy Strategy
Clean Technology and Innovation in the Natural Resources Sector

Lack of innovation may reduce job creation and economic growth in Canada’s natural resource industries and clean technology sector
  • Advance a whole-of-government strategy for advancing clean technology in Canada’s natural resource sectors as part of the Government of Canada’s commitment to invest over $1 billion in clean technologies.
  • Lead Canada’s participation in Mission Innovation.
  • Develop strategic partnerships to support innovation in natural resource sectors
  • Support for the Climate Technology Centre and Network that will provide Canadian clean technology producers with business opportunities/partnerships with developing countries
Canada’s Natural Resource Sectors are Globally Competitive

Natural Resource Sectors and Consumers are Environmentally Responsible
Government Priorities:

Economic Growth Through Innovation

NRCan Mandate Letter:

Implementation of the Pan-Canadian Framework on Climate Change and Clean Growth
Energy Infrastructure

If the public and Indigenous peoples do not have confidence in Canada’s ability to expand its infrastructure in a safe and environmentally sound manner, then Canada’s ability to grow its economy, increase interconnectedness, and diversify markets may be limited.
  • Interim approach and principles for projects currently undergoing an environmental assessment (EA).
  • Comprehensive review of environmental and regulatory processes, including the NEB.
  • The establishment of MPMO (NRCan) regional Crown consultation coordinators for Energy East to enhance public engagement, especially with Indigenous people.
  • Establishment of monitoring and advisory committees for major pipeline projects
Canada’s Natural Resource Sectors are Globally Competitive

Natural Resource Sectors and Consumers are Environmentally Responsible
Government Priorities:

Increase Trade and Foreign Direct Investment

Improved Relationships with and Outcomes for Indigenous Peoples

Pipeline and Offshore Safety

NRCan Mandate Letter:

Collaboration with Provinces and Territories to Advance the Canadian Energy Strategy

Renewal of Relationships with Indigenous Peoples

Modernization of the NEB

Implementation of Interim Measures for Major Resource Projects

 

 

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