Departmental Sustainable Development Strategy
1. Introduction to the Departmental Sustainable Development Strategy
The 2016 to 2019 Federal Sustainable Development Strategy (FSDS) presents the Government of Canada’s sustainable development goals and targets, as required by the Federal Sustainable Development Act. In keeping with the 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 reporting on the implementation of the Departmental Sustainable Development Strategy.
2. Sustainable development in NRCan
NRCan’s Departmental Sustainable Development Strategy for 2017 to 2020 describes the department’s actions in support of achieving Clean Energy, Clean Growth, Sustainably Managed Lands and Forests, Low Carbon Government, Effective Action on Climate Change, Modern and Resilient Infrastructure, Healthy Coasts and Oceans, Pristine Lakes and Rivers, and Safe and Healthy Communities goals. This supplementary information table presents available results for the departmental actions pertinent to these goals. Previous years’ supplementary information tables are posted on NRCan’s website.
3. Departmental performance by FSDS goal
The following tables provide performance information on departmental actions in support of the FSDS goals listed in section 2.
FSDS Goal: Clean Energy
| FSDS Target(s) | FSDS Contributing Action(s) | Corresponding Departmental Action(s) | Starting Point(s), Target(s) and Performance Indicator(s) for Departmental Actions | Results Achieved | Contribution by each departmental result to the FSDS goal and target |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| By 2030, 90% and in the long term, 100% of Canada’s electricity is generated from renewable and non-emitting sources | Invest in clean energy technologies | Develop and demonstrate advanced materials technologies for clean energy production | Indicator: Number of innovative materials technologies developed, contributed to, or validated by NRCan for use in power generation systems Target: 2 by 2020 |
This target was met in 2018-19. Three innovative materials technologies have been developed including a material technology for the cost-effective construction of bio refineries. | 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 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure Target 9.4 |
| Indicator: Ratio of NRCan program investments in clean energy S&T to leveraged funding from partners Target: 1:1 ratio |
In 2019-20, the ratio of partner investments in clean energy science and technology program to NRCan funding was 3:1. This means that an estimated $3 was leveraged for every $1 spent by NRCanFootnote 1. | ||||
| By 2030, 90% and in the long term, 100% of Canada’s electricity is generated from renewable and non-emitting sources | Invest in clean energy technologies | Work with Atomic Energy Canada Limited and other federal departments to deliver the Federal Nuclear Science & Technology programn | Indicator: The number of discrete federal, activities and projects initiated that align with NRCan priorities. Target: 5: discrete projects / initiatives undertaken per year |
In 2019-20, 5 discrete projects/initiatives were undertaken with Atomic Energy Canada Limited (AECL) to support the delivery of the Federal Nuclear Science & Technology program through NRCan’s priorities. NRCan and AECL:
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Investment in clean energy technologies research and development will contribute to the FSDS target of 90% of electricity in Canada that is generated from renewable and non-emitting sources by 2030. SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy Target 7.1 |
| By 2030, 90% and in the long term, 100% of Canada’s electricity is generated from renewable and non-emitting sources | Promote collaboration and work with partners in clean energy | Participate in the Generation IV International Forum (GIF), a multilateral endeavour to undertake research and development (R&D) to develop the next generation of nuclear energy systems | Indicator: The number of discrete federal, provincial and territorial activities and projects that are initiated Target: Greater than 2 discrete projects/initiatives undertaken per year |
In 2019-20, two discrete projects were initiated that supported the development of the next generation of nuclear energy. NRCan cohosted with AECL the GIF policy group meeting in Vancouver, and NRCan hosted a workshop with international GIF partners and Small Modular Reactor Vendors to examine how best to collaborate to accelerate the deployment of Small Modular Reactor technology. | NRCan collaborated with partners on clean energy projects, which contributes in the long-term to Canada's FSDS target for electricity that is generation from renewable and non-emitting sources by 2030. SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy Target 7.a |
| By 2030, 90% and in the long term, 100% of Canada’s electricity is generated from renewable and non-emitting sources | Support voluntary action to reduce GHG and air pollutant emissions through clean energy generation and consumption | Continue actions to support renewable energy deployment to support the generation of electricity from renewable sources by providing support through the ecoENERGY for Renewable Power program | Indicator: Number of terawatt-hours (TWh) of renewable electricity produced. Target: 10.2 TWh (equivalent to the annual power consumption of a typical Canadian city of about 750,000 people) |
In 2019-20, the annual amount of electricity produced from the remaining 48 renewable energy projects still funded was 5.2 TWh. The lower amount of electricity production in 2019-20 was due to the lower than expected energy resources during the year (ie. wind, solar, hydro); and because certain projects finished earlier than expected (ie. reached contribution agreement maximum, so their electricity production is no longer tracked after end of program funding). In 2017-18, 10.6 TWh of renewable electricity was produced and 9.6 TWh was produced in 2018-19.The 10 TWh target was also achieved in 2011-12 as 13 TWh was produced that year from 104 projects for which electricity production remains but is no longer tracked by NRCan as these projects are completed. |
The program supports industry deployment and electricity generation from renewable energy sources such as wind, low-impact hydro, biomass, and solar photovoltaic. This helps advance Canada's objective to reduce its GHG emissions and have 90% of its electricity generated from renewable and non-emitting sources by 2030. SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy Target 7.2 |
| By 2030, 90% and in the long term, 100% of Canada’s electricity is generated from renewable and non-emitting sources | Support voluntary action to reduce GHG and air pollutant emissions through clean energy generation and consumption | Develop recommendations for federal government consideration through the Marine Renewable Energy Enabling Measures program on a legislative approach for administering renewable energy projects in federal offshore areas | Starting Point: There is no existing legislative framework Target: A legislative framework is in place by 2019 |
In 2019-20, NRCan, through the Marine Renewable Energy Enabling Measures program, established the legislative framework for administering renewable energy projects in federal offshore areas with the introduction of the Canadian Energy Regulator Act (CER Act), which became law in August 2019. More specifically, Part 5 of the Canadian Energy Regulator (CER) Act makes the CER the federal lifecycle regulator for renewable energy projects in federal offshore areas. The CER has legislative authority to review applications for proposed renewable energy projects and their associated offshore power lines in Canada’s offshore areas, as well as oversee these facilities throughout their lifecycle. Part 5 also provides the authority to make regulations respecting safety and environmental protection, which will be the next phase of work under the legislative framework. |
The achieved result creates a new opportunity for renewable energy development in Canada that did not exist before the legislative framework was developed. Now that a legal framework has been developed, offshore renewable energy is positioned to contribute to the FSDS target of 90% of electricity in Canada that is generated from renewable and non-emitting sources by 2030. SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy Target 7.2 |
| By 2030, 90% and in the long term, 100% of Canada’s electricity is generated from renewable and non-emitting sources | Support voluntary action to reduce GHG and air pollutant emissions through clean energy generation and consumption | Support the generation of electricity from renewable sources by providing support through the Clean Energy for Rural and Remote Communities program | Indicator: Number of MW of electricity supported by end of 2022-23 Starting point: 0 in 2018-19 Target: 40 MW of electricity capacity supported by end of 2022-23 installed |
On track to meet the target by 2022-23. In 2019-20, NRCan continued to advance the government’s commitment to reduce reliance on diesel and other fossil fuels for heat and power in Canada’s rural and remote communities by supporting community-led renewable energy projects. The program completed its second round of applications in 2019-20, selecting 35 new projects. After two rounds of intake, the program supports a total of 88 renewable energy and capacity building projects. Of these 88 projects, 67 have signed contribution agreements to begin construction or their capacity building activities. Due to remote locations, most projects have longer lead times for starting construction due to timing of barges and winter roads. Program officials estimate that the projects will generate approximately 63 MW of new renewable electricity, based on information provided in project applications. |
Once achieved, the projects will increase the amount of electricity generated from renewable resources in Canada. This result will contribute to the FSDS target of 90% of electricity in Canada that is generated from renewable and non-emitting sources by 2030. SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy Target 7.2 |
| By 2030, 90% and in the long term, 100% of Canada’s electricity is generated from renewable and non-emitting sources | Support voluntary action to reduce GHG and air pollutant emissions through clean energy generation and consumption | Support development of intelligently managed electrical grids by providing support to utility-led projects through the Smart Grid program | Indicator: % GHG emission reduction by 2027-28 Starting point: 0 in 2018-19 Target: Reduction of GHG emissions of 0.9 MT by 2027-28 |
On track to meet target by 2027-28. Reduction in GHG emission reductions are expected to start being realized in 2020-21. As of 2019-20, 26 contribution agreements were signed with utilities to demonstrate and deploy smart grid technologies to enable a cleaner, more efficient, resilient and flexible electrical grid. |
Once achieved, the projects will increase the amount of electricity generated from renewable and non-emitting resources in Canada. This result will contribute to the FSDS target of 90% of electricity in Canada that is generated from renewable and non-emitting sources by 2030. SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy Target 7.2 |
| By 2030, 90% and in the long term, 100% of Canada’s electricity is generated from renewable and non-emitting sources | Support voluntary action to reduce GHG and air pollutant emissions through clean energy generation and consumption | 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. | Indicator: Number of MW of new electricity capacity supported by end of FY 2022-23 Starting point: 0 in 2018-19 Target: 150MW of new electricity capacity supported by end of FY 2022-23 |
The target estimate of 150 MW will not be met due to the fact that a large offshore wind project was not approved for funding. It is expected that selected projects will lead to 56 MW of new capacity with the strong possibility of scaling up and replication over time. | This result will contribute to the FSDS target of 90% of electricity in Canada is generated from renewable and non-emitting sources by 2030. SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy Target 7.2 |
| NRCan supports the FSDS Goal but does not contribute to meeting a defined FSDS Target | Support voluntary action to reduce GHG and air pollutant emissions through clean energy generation and consumption | Provide a new suite of tools to support consumers’ vehicle purchasing decisions and encourage fuel-efficient driving behaviours | Indicator: Vehicle purchases influenced by NRCan fuel efficiency information products and tools (qualitative analysis on usefulness of information provided) Target: Fuel efficiency ranks in the top 3 purchasing decision factors for light duty vehicles (LDV) by March 31, 2021 |
On track to meet the target by March 31, 2021. According to JD Power's 2018 Canadian Fuel Economy Impact Report, fuel efficiency is considered the third highest purchase decision criteria for non-premium brands. |
This result supports the transition to a cleaner transportation system and making low-carbon vehicles more attractive to Canadians. SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy Target 7.1 |
| NRCan supports the FSDS Goal but does not contribute to meeting a defined FSDS Target | Invest in clean energy technologies | Support Finance Canada and Environment and Climate Change Canada in identifying and phasing out inefficient fossil fuel subsidies by 2025 | Indicator: Year by which fossil fuel subsidies have been phased out Target: fossil fuel subsidies are phased out by 2025 |
On track to meet the target by 2025. In 2019-20, NRCan provided support to the two lead departments. Finance Canada (for tax-related subsidies) and Environment and Climate Change Canada (for non-tax-related subsidies) are collaborating to identify inefficient fossil fuel subsidies in order to phase them out by 2025. |
Identifying and phasing out fossil fuel subsidies that encourage wasteful consumption contributes to increased deployment and use of renewable and non-emitting energy sources and contributes to the overall FSDS Clean Energy goal. SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure Target 9.4 |
| NRCan supports the FSDS Goal but does not contribute to meeting a defined FSDS Target | Invest in clean energy technologies | Launch the ENERGY STAR® for Industry program in Canada and offer plant certification to 2-3 industry sectors to recognize high performers Accelerate the adoption of ISO 50001, an innovative energy management system in the industrial sector |
Indicator: Energy saved by industry in petajoules from energy efficiency programs Target: 23.2 petajoules saved annually (equivalent to the annual energy used by more than 208,800 typical Canadian households, excluding transportation) in 2021-22 |
On track to meet the target by 2021-22. NRCan worked with Canadian industry and North American partners to improve industrial energy efficiency, which has resulted in 3.5 PJ saved since 2018Footnote 2. NRCan continued to raise awareness of the benefits of energy management in industry operations with the ENERGY STAR for Industry Program that was launched in Canada in 2017, including the Challenge and Certification components. Since its launch, NRCan has made plant certification available to 5 industry sectors (integrated steel, automobile manufacturing, commercial baking, cement and frozen fried potatoes). Since adopting ISO 50001 as Canada’s national standard, NRCan has co-funded 60 projects to implement ISO 50001 energy management systems in industrial facilities. NRCan launched the Energy Manager Program, which helps select Canadian organizations identify and adopt energy efficiency practices. The program received 237 applications worth $18 million, and is in the process of signing 25 contribution agreements worth $3.1 million. |
By improving energy saved in industry through energy efficiency programs, NRCan helps to advance progress towards the overall FSDS Clean Energy goal. SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy Target 7.3 |
| NRCan supports the FSDS Goal but does not contribute to meeting a defined FSDS Target | Play a leading role in international agreements and initiatives involving clean energy | Advance Canada’s clean energy and climate mitigation goals through partnerships under the North American Clean Energy Cooperation, Mission Innovation, the International Energy Agency, and the Clean Energy Ministerial (CEM) process, as well as the G7 & G20, among others | Indicator: NRCan undertakes bilateral and multilateral agreements and initiatives with key partners that advance Canadian priorities for clean energy (signed at the Assistant Deputy Minister level or above) Target: not defined given variability of factors affecting international engagement |
In 2019-20 Canada continued to show global leadership in the clean energy transition, hosting the 10th Clean Energy Ministerial (CEM-10) and 4th MI Ministerial meeting (MI-4). In this position, NRCan welcomed over 25 countries and nearly 2500 stakeholders, engaging with colleagues, both new and old, to spur the innovation, and collaboration needed in order to realize the energy systems of tomorrow. Beyond CEM/MI, NRCan continued to further advance the clean energy agenda via engagement in fora such as the G20, G7 and IEA as well as via bilateral engagements with partners such as Chile, Japan and the EU. NRCan engaged with North American partners on themes, mechanisms and next steps for both bilateral and trilateral collaboration on clean energy development and deployment including through engagement via the Canada-Mexico Partnership Energy Working Group, Gastech, Congressional Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency EXPO and Policy Forum, the New England-Canada Energy Conference, and the Festival International. |
NRCan’s engagement in the G20 and G7 reinforced Canada’s leadership in clean energy and strengthened relationships with key energy partners. Through the IEA’s Clean Energy Transitions Programme, Canada has funded over a dozen IEA projects all aligned with Canada’s energy and environment priorities. NRCan’s active membership in the CEM and MI serve as an opportunity to enhance engagement with global leaders in clean energy and to accelerate progress towards the clean energy future. Through the Canada-Chile MOU, Canada is working to promote integration and access to renewable energy; women’s and Indigenous peoples’ participation in the energy sector; and accelerated clean energy RDD. Through the Canada-Japan Energy Policy Dialogue, Canada is working to increase the role of cleaner oil and gas (including lower-emitting LNG facilities), nuclear, hydrogen, CCUS technologies and energy efficiency in Japan and emerging Asian markets. Through High-Level Energy Dialogue, Canada is increasing cooperation with EU markets and advancing the role of key emissions reducing technologies, including in the fields of LNG, hydrogen, CCUS, methane, renewable energies (including offshore), energy efficiency and nuclear. Through the UK mission, NRCan is working to advance the role of nuclear in combatting climate change, promote advancement of SMR development, advocate for LNG’s role in the broader energy transition, and highlight Canada’s upcoming hydrogen strategy. Through the Canada-UK nuclear cooperation action plan, Canada is working to enhance regulatory collaboration, share best practices, and increase nuclear sector capacity and diversity. Through engagement with North American partners, NRCan was able to highlight Canadian leadership in the clean energy transition and advocate for concerted efforts to address matters of mutual interest. Through these multilateral activities and engagement, NRCan is playing a leading role in international clean energy initiatives and contributes to further advancing towards a low-carbon economy in the long term. SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy Target 7.a |
FSDS Goal: Clean Growth
| FSDS Target(s) |
FSDS Contributing Action(s) | Corresponding Departmental Action(s) | Starting Point(s), Target(s) and Performance Indicator(s) for Departmental Actions | Results Achieved | Contribution by each departmental result to the FSDS goal and target |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Implement our Mission Innovation commitment to double federal government investments in clean energy research, development and demonstration, by 2020, from 2015 levels | Work with partners on developing and adopting new technologies to reduce GHG and air pollutant emissions | Advance international collaboration on clean energy RD&D through Mission Innovation by implementing domestic initiatives | Indicator: Ratio of NRCan program investments in clean energy S&T to leveraged funding from partners. Target: 1:1 ratio |
In 2019-20, the ratio of partner investments in clean energy science and technology program to NRCan funding was 3:1. This means that an estimated $3 was leveraged for every $1 spent by NRCanFootnote 3. | RD&D in technologies for clean energy production strengthens Canada’s capacity to reduce GHGs from the production and use of energy. These scientific advances support Canada’s progress towards the FSDS target for clean energy use by 2030. SDG 17: Partnerships to achieve the Goal Target 17.16 |
| Starting point: Federal investments of $387 million in clean energy RD&D in 2014-15 Indicator: Federal investments in clean energy RD&D Target: Doubling of Government of Canada’s federal investments for clean energy RD&D to $775 million by 2019-20 |
Federal RD&D Investments in 2018-19 (Year 4)Footnote 4 is a total of $682.7 million total across 31 federal government organizations, including NRCan. NRCan continues to make investments in clean energy RD&D to support of Canada's Mission Innovation target of doubling federal investments over 5 years. Canada is on track to meet target by 2019-20 (Year 5). |
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 such as GHG emissions. SDG 17: Partnerships to achieve the Goal Target 17.16 |
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| NRCan supports these Contributing Actions but does not contribute to meeting a defined FSDS Target for this FSDS Goal | Invest in technologies to reduce GHG and air pollutant emissions | Support the development of technologies and tools to reduce energy consumption in mining and milling and eliminate diesel replacing it with alternative energy sources in underground mines under the Green Mining Innovation program | Indicator: Number of pilot-scale demonstration projects or tools implemented supporting the development of one or more technologies Target: 3 pilot-scale demonstration projects or tools implemented by 2023 |
On track to meet the target by 2023. In 2019-20, one pilot-scale demonstration project was completed on novel diesel particulate filter technology (it was evaluated successfully in situ in underground scenarios). One project was completed prior to 2019-20, and one more is expected to be completed next fiscal year. |
Diesel particulate filters are effective at filtering out diesel particulate matter and therefore improve underground air quality/ reduce air pollutants. SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure Target 9.4 |
| NRCan supports these Contributing Actions but does not contribute to meeting a defined FSDS Target for this FSDS Goal | Invest in technologies to reduce GHG and air pollutant emissions | Implement the Government of Canada's actions to develop clean technologies to reduce GHG emission, air pollutants and water uses in the energy sector through initiatives such as:
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Indicator: Ratio of NRCan program investments in clean technology to leveraged funding from partners Starting point: 2016-17 emission levels Target: 1:1 ratio |
In 2019-20, the ratio of partner investments in clean energy science and technology program to NRCan funding was 3:1. This means that an estimated $3 was leveraged for every $1 spent by NRCanFootnote 5. | RD&D in technologies for clean energy production strengthens Canada’s capacity to reduce GHGs from the production and use of energy. These scientific advances support Canada’s progress towards the FSDS target for clean energy use by 2030. SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure Target 9.5 |
| Indicator: Through NRCan supported RD&D, GHG emissions from past and ongoing clean technology projects are reduced Target: A decrease in emissions of 1 million tonnes a year (equivalent to 250,000 passenger cars removed from our roads) starting in 2017-18 |
In 2019-20, GHG emission reductions were 1,611,014 tonnes CO2/year (1.61 megatonnes) as a result of funded demonstration projects from Energy Innovation Programs. | These NRCan-funded projects contribute to the deployment of next-generation clean technologies and help strengthen Canada’s contributions to clean growth and the transition to a low-carbon economy. SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure Target 9.5 |
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| NRCan supports these Contributing Actions but does not contribute to meeting a defined FSDS Target for this FSDS Goal | Invest in technologies to reduce GHG and air pollutant emissions | Develop and demonstrate advanced materials technologies for the safe transportation of hydrocarbons and to reduce emissions in the transportation and industrial sectors | Indicator: Number of innovative materials technologies or standards developed, contributed to, or validated by NRCan for use in the safe transportation of hydrocarbons and to reduce emissions in the transportation and industrial sectors Starting point: 0 Target: 3 over 5 years |
6 codes or standards for pipeline safety have been developed or updated over 5 years. This target has been met. | NRCan-funded RD&D as well as strong codes and standards help ensure hydrocarbons are transported safely, limiting the risk of spills, as they continue to be used during the transition to a low-carbon economy. SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure Target 9.4 |
| NRCan supports these Contributing Actions but does not contribute to meeting a defined FSDS Target for this FSDS Goal | Support voluntary action to reduce GHG and air pollutant emissions | Provide financial contributions to FPInnovations, other forest sector research partners and eligible forest product companies for RD&D of new products, processes and technologies focused on clean energy such as biofuels | Indicator: Number of new products and processes resulting from NRCan information Target: 2 per year |
In 2019-20, 5 new products and processes being developed to help support forest sector transformation efforts, including the expansion of wood-use in building construction, the development of next-generation packaging and the implementation of Forestry 4.0. The Forest Innovation Program has helped support the forest industry`s innovation agenda through its investments and collaboration with FPInnovations | These products and processes support pre-commercial R&D and technology transfer for innovative technologies and processes in the forest sector resulting in new bio-energy, bio-chemicals and bio- materials that maximize the value of Canada`s forests and reduce existing environmental impacts. SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure Target 9.4 |
| Indicator: Number of new economic development projects facilitated, brokered, and/or developed in/by Indigenous communities with NRCan knowledge and funding Target: 6 per year |
Through the Indigenous Forestry Initiative and Strategic Partnerships Initiative, NRCan facilitated, brokered, and/or developed 20 new projects with Indigenous communities in 2019-20. These projects are community-led and support Indigenous-led economic development in Canada’s forest sector by increasing Indigenous participation in forestry. | These projects are helping to build the capacity of Indigenous communities to harness clean technology, and to increase their participation in the forest bioeconomy, which will in turn, support their transition off of diesel and into renewable alternatives. SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure Target 9.4 |
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| NRCan supports these Contributing Actions but does not contribute to meeting a defined FSDS Target for this FSDS Goal | Invest in technologies to reduce water pollution | Develop new technology or processes to reduce the environmental footprint of mining operations, such as minimal liquid discharge mill using advanced separation and water treatment technologies | Indicator: Number of pilot-scale demonstrations for water management in mining and mineral processing completed Target: At least one pilot-scale demonstration for water management in mining and mineral processing completed by 2020 |
In 2019-20, a water recycling process demonstration to reduce freshwater intake and recover valuable metals was achieved for one mining site. In addition, several water treatment projects applying membrane technologies to reduce water pollution were undertaken with industrial partners. | NRCan’s supports in developing cleaner mining operations contribute to the overall FSDS goal. SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure Target 9.4 |
FSDS Goal: Sustainably Managed Lands and Forests
| FSDS Target(s) |
FSDS Contributing Action(s) | Corresponding Departmental Action(s) | Starting Point(s), Target(s) and Performance Indicator(s) for Departmental Actions | Results Achieved | Contribution by each departmental result to the FSDS goal and target |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Between now and 2020 maintain Canada’s timber harvest at or below sustainable wood supply levels | Better understand lands and forests | Increase the scientific knowledge of forest ecosystems, including by:
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Indicator: Level of participation of the Canadian Forest Service on advisory boards or committees involving the sharing of knowledge on forest ecosystems to governments, industry and nongovernmental organizations Starting point: 100 advisory boards and committees Targets: Participation on advisory boards and committees stays within 10% of starting point |
In 2019-20, NRCan provided scientific advice to 118 committees and boards via participation of research scientists, research professionals and managers. Canada has continued to harvest less wood compared to what is determined as the sustainable supply. This has been the case since at least 1990 (the earliest year for which records are available). The sustainable supply of wood was 219 million cubic metres while the volume harvested was 155 million cubic metres. Harvested volume decreased 400,000 cubic metres from 2016 levels and sustainable supply experienced a simultaneous decrease of 3.5 million cubic metres. |
NRCan research results are disseminated through various means including the sharing of knowledge and information with stakeholders on advisory committees and boards. Participation on these groups provides direct access to CFS expertise to enhance sustainable forest management and better understand issues related to lands and forests, and that allow Canada to maintain its timber harvest below sustainable wood supply levels. SDG 15: Life on Land Target 15.2 |
| Indicator: Number of active collaborations with public and private sector that manage risk or opportunities to human population, natural resources and infrastructure health Target: 3 collaboration agreements per year |
In 2019-20, 3 new/renewed agreements were signed including a research and development agreements focusing on mountain pine beetle spread management modeling, an agreement for a molecular tools for the detection of oak wilt, and an agreement for the management of the Hemlock Woolly Adelgid in southwestern Nova Scotia. | These agreements facilitate the provision to governments, agencies and industry of scientific knowledge on forest disturbances to forecast impacts and contribute to the develop knowledge on Canadian forest resources which contributes to sustainable forest management. Among other impacts, these collaborations allow Canada to maintain its timber harvest below sustainable wood supply levels. SDG 15: Life on Land Target 15.2 |
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| Indicator: Number of times end users have access to indicators and tools (by website, presentation and meetings) to support the development of regional integrated assessments Target: 6000 per yearFootnote 6 |
End-users continued to access 16 indicators and 12 tools from the Forest Climate Change website and from published works. Tool and indicator landing pages were accessed over 6600 times in 2019-20. As of October 2019, monthly calls were organized with all the leads of the Regional Integrated Assessment studies to inform each other on best practices, relevant updates and best use of existing tools and indicators. |
The provision of scientific knowledge on forest ecosystems, through access to indicators and tools, to Canadian industry and non-government organizations, and early intervention pest management strategies contribute to a reduction in tree loss thereby helping to maintain sustainable wood supply levels and supporting an annual sustainable timber harvest. SDG 15: Life on Land Target 15.2 |
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| Indicator: Forest Management Plan primer for PRF completed Starting point: In April 2017, Petawawa Research Forest (PRF) established as federal site for climate change vulnerability assessment Target: Completion by March 2020 |
The Forest Management Plan was not fully completed by March 2020. In fulfillment of the Petawawa Forest Management Plan, the Forest Management Primer was launched in October 2019 to provide information and direction to the Petawawa Forest Management Plan. The primer included a complete forest inventory using LIDAR (LIDAR stands for “Light Detection and Ranging,” is a remote sensing method that uses light in the form of a pulsed laser to measure ranges (variable distances) to the Earth in order to make digital 3-D images of landscapes, such as forest.) Most of the data were captured and processed by March 2020 but the inventory was not fully completed at that time. | Sustainable timber harvest levels will be set for PRF. In order to maintain sustainable wood supply, harvest levels will be based on accurate inventory and wood supply modelling that incorporate the likely impacts of climate change on wood supply. SDG 15: Life on Land Target 15.2 |
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| Indicator: Installation of trial at PRF, as part of North American Adaptive Silviculture for Climate Change Research Network Target: Installation by March 2021 |
On track to meeting target by March 2021. The PRF was selected as an Adaptive Silviculture network site following an international workshop held in July 2019. Installation of trial is targeted for March 2021. It will be guided by the Forest Management Plan and the expert advisory groups. |
As an Adaptive Silviculture network site, the Petawawa Research Forest would join a North America wide climate change research network, and provide into the future key information about continuing to maintain a sustainable wood supply in Canada. SDG 15: Life on Land Target 15.2 |
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| Between now and 2020, maintain Canada’s timber harvest at or below sustainable wood supply levels | Use legislation and regulations to manage the spread of invasive alien species | Develop science-based solutions and tools to better detect, slow the spread and reduce impact of invasive alien species, including working in partnership with the Canadian Food Inspection Agency to create wood packaging standards and control measures to manage known and unknown alien species | Indicator: Level of participation of the Canadian Forest Service on advisory boards or committees involving the sharing of knowledge on forest disturbances to governments, industry, and non-governmental organizations Starting point: 100 advisory boards and committees Target: Participation on advisory boards and committees stays within 10% of starting point |
In 2019-20, NRCan provided scientific advice to 112 committees and boards related to fire and pest disturbances via participation of research scientists, research professionals and managers. Of these 112 committees and boards, 74 were related to forest pest management. | NRCan research results are disseminated through various means including the sharing of knowledge and information with stakeholders on advisory committees and boards. Participation on these groups provides direct access to Canadian Forest Service expertise to address specific questions and needs related to the management of invasive alien species. Among other impacts, these interactions enable the sharing of relevant expertise that allows Canada to maintain its timber harvest below sustainable wood supply levels. SDG 15: Life on Land Target 15.8 |
| Between now and 2020, maintain Canada’s timber harvest at or below sustainable wood supply levels | Build capacity and provide support | Through engagement with provinces and territories, industry and international partners, develop and deliver science-based solutions to help reduce wildfires for forest-based communities. Sharing international wildland fire management resources will advance fire response by fire management agencies and first responders. Opportunities for knowledge sharing include:
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Indicator: Level of participation of the Canadian Forest Service on advisory boards or committees involving the sharing of knowledge on forest disturbances to governments, industry, and non-governmental organizations Starting point: 100 advisory boards and committees Target: Participation on advisory boards and committees stays within 10% of starting point |
In 2019-20, NRCan provided scientific advice to 112 committees and boards related to fire and pest disturbances via participation of research scientists, research professionals and managers. Of these 112 committees and boards, 38 were related to wildfire risk management. | Fire is an integral part of the forest, and fire management is an integral part of forest management. Fire management is the process of planning, preventing and fighting fires to protect people, property and the forest resource. It also involves fire to attain forestry, wildlife and land-use objectives. Fire management based on sound science can further help cement Canada’s reputation as a good steward of its forests, creating market access. By participating on committees and boards as subject matter experts, CFS personnel provide advice grounded in science related to fire management and hence, sustainable development of the forest resource. This further cements Canada`s reputation as a good steward by virtue of providing more relevant and more timely information on fires for real time decision making, and helping to reduce losses due to fires. SDG 15: Life on Land Target 15.2 |
| Between now and 2020, maintain Canada’s timber harvest at or below sustainable wood supply levels | Work with domestic and international partners | Develop a forest bioeconomy framework with the provinces and territories that identifies the type of concerted actions required for creating favourable research and investment conditions to enhance the growth and competitiveness of emerging bioeconomy activities in Canada | Starting point: Developing a forest bioeconomy framework Target: 1 framework endorsed with annual reporting, as agreed by the members of the Canadian Council of Forest Ministers |
In 2019-20, the Forest Bioeconomy Framework has been endorsed by all under the Canadian Council of Forest Ministers (CCFM). Process to implement reporting was initiated at the annual CCFM meeting in September 2019, where ministers agreed to continue to implement the framework, with a report expected in September, 2020. | Implementation of a Forest Bioeconomy Framework for Canada will stimulate new economic activity in the forest sector by converting sustainably managed renewable forest-based resources into value-added products and services using novel and repurposed processes. SDG 15: Life on Land Target 15.2 |
| Between now and 2020, maintain Canada’s timber harvest at or below sustainable wood supply levels | Work with domestic and international partners | Work collaboratively with provinces and territories, federal agencies (e.g., ECCC, Public Safety Canada, Parks Canada) and Indigenous communities to implement and advance wildfire and forest pest strategies | Indicator: Level of participation of the Canadian Forest Service on advisory boards or committees involving the sharing of knowledge on forest disturbances to governments, industry, and non-governmental organizations Starting point: 100 advisory boards and committees Target: Participation on advisory boards and committees stays within 10% of starting point |
In 2019-20, NRCan provided scientific advice to 112 committees and boards related to fire and pest disturbances via participation of research scientists, research professionals and managers. | NRCan research results are disseminated through various means including the sharing of knowledge and information with stakeholders on advisory committees and boards. Participation on these groups provides direct access to CFS expertise to address specific questions and needs related to the management of wildland fires and forest pests, including invasive alien species. Among other impacts, these interactions allow Canada to maintain its timber harvest below sustainable wood supply levels. SDG 15: Life on Land Target 15.2 |
| NRCan supports these Contributing Actions but does not contribute to meeting a defined FSDS Target for this FSDS Goal | Build capacity and provide support | Provide Indigenous communities and organizations with financial and technical support to increase their participation in Canada’s forest sector | Indicator: Number of new economic development projects facilitated, brokered, and/or developed in/by Indigenous communities with NRCan knowledge and funding Target: 6 new projects annually, facilitated, brokered, and/or developed with NRCan knowledge and funding |
In 2019-20, through the Indigenous Forestry Initiative and Strategic Partnerships Initiative, NRCan facilitated, brokered, and/or developed 20 new projects with Indigenous communities. These projects are community-led and support Indigenous-led economic development in Canada’s forest sector by increasing Indigenous participation in forestry. | These projects are helping to build the capacity of Indigenous communities to harness clean technology, and to increase their participation in the forest bioeconomy, which will in turn, support their transition off of diesel and into renewable alternatives. SDG 15: Life on Land Target 15.2 |
| NRCan supports these Contributing Actions but does not contribute to meeting a defined FSDS Target for this FSDS Goal | Better understand lands and forests | Evaluate reclamation strategies and decommissioning scenarios to determine the environmental performance of rehabilitated mine waste management sites in Canada | Indicator: Number of scientific evidence (e.g. publications, reports) used for development of environmental policy/guidance Target: 3 by 2023 |
This target was met in 2018-19. In 2019-20, two additional journal publications on reclamation strategies were developed to improve environmental performance:
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The research completed contributes to the FSDS goal of sustainably managed lands and forests. Specifically the work provides scientific research to better understand protected areas and managed forests and support decision making, including forest management plans. SDG 15: Life on Land Target 15.1 |
FSDS Goal: Effective Action on Climate Change
| FSDS Target(s) |
FSDS Contributing Action(s) | Corresponding Departmental Action(s) | Starting Point(s), Target(s) and Performance Indicator(s) for Departmental Actions | Results Achieved | Contribution by each departmental result to the FSDS goal and target |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| By 2030, reduce Canada’s total GHG emissions by 30%, relative to 2005 emission levels | Use regulations to limit GHG emissions | Set more than 35 minimum energy performance standards for appliances and equipment by 2020 under the Energy Efficiency Regulations | Indicator: Energy savings (petajoules) from regulated products and market transformation Starting point: 2.35 petajoules saved in 2015-16 Target: 15.5 petajoules saved annually (equivalent to the annual energy used by approximately 139,500 typical Canadian households, excluding transportation) by 2021 |
On track to meet this target by 2021. In 2019-20, the introduction of amendments to the Energy Efficiency Regulations saved an estimated 4.6 PJ in energy (this value is based on energy savings attributable to Amendments 13-16; whereas the 2015-16 value is attributable to previous Amendments). In 2019-20, three amendments to Canada’s Energy Efficiency Regulations came into force, updating or introducing minimum energy performance standards for 36 appliances and equipment. These amendments will support energy efficiency improvement of appliances and equipment over the next several years. In addition, NRCan continued to administer the ENERGY STAR for Products program, which encourages and promotes consumer purchases of high-efficiency products. |
By setting minimum energy performance standards, NRCan contributes to improving the energy performance of appliances and equipment in Canadian homes and buildings, which helps to reduce Canada’s total GHG emissions. SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy Target 7.3 |
| By 2030, reduce Canada’s total GHG emissions by 30%, relative to 2005 emission levels | Work with partners on climate change | Collaborate with the United States of America and Mexico on a common benchmarking platform for the freight sector (the SmartWay Freight Partnership) | Indicator: Percentage of SmartWay freight transport companies that implement lower carbon transportation options Starting point: 0% Target: 60% annually (maintained each year until 2021) |
On track to meet this target by 2021. In 2019-20, the Annual Fuel Reduction Activities Report indicates that, to date, 72% of respondents have implemented lower carbon transportation options because of the SmartWay Program. |
By helping industry to maximize efficiency and to reduce energy use in its freight operations through the SmartWay Program, NRCan helps advance progress towards the FSDS target for 30% reductions in GHG emissions in Canada by 2030. SDG 17: Partnerships to achieve the Goal Target 17.16 |
| By 2030, reduce Canada’s total GHG emissions by 30%, relative to 2005 emission levels | Work with partners on climate change | Undertake RD&D that informs policies, standards and codes | Indicator: Reductions in GHG emission from NRCan supported RD&D projects (from past and ongoing clean energy technology projects) Starting point: Emission levels of 2016-17 Target: Reduction of 1 Mt GHG Emission per year |
In 2019-20, GHG emission reductions were 1,611,014 tonnes CO2/year (1.61 megatonnes) as a result of funded demonstration projects from Energy Innovation Programs (EIP, Oil & Gas Cleantech, eco-EII, CEF). | These NRCan-funded projects contribute to the deployment of next-generation clean technologies and help strengthen Canada’s contributions to clean growth and the transition to a low-carbon economy. SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure Target 9.5 |
| By 2030, reduce Canada’s total GHG emissions by 30%, relative to 2005 emission levels | Support voluntary action to reduce GHG emissions and adapt to climate change | Improve the energy efficiency of:
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Indicator: Amount of energy saved in petajoules from the energy efficiency programs in the building sector Target: 265 petajoules saved (equivalent to the annual energy used by approximately 2,385,500 typical Canadian households, excluding transportation) in 2021 from energy efficiency programs funded in the building sector |
In support of this 2021 target, NRCan worked with partners to improve energy efficiency in the commercial and industrial building sector, which has resulted in 8.7 PJ saved in 2019-20. 50 partners across Canada use NRCan’s EnerGuide energy rating system and its premium standards. Last year, 87,000 existing and nearly10,000 new homes were labelled resulting in 1.9 PJ saved in 2019-20. As of March 2020, there were 187 buildings certified under the ENERGY STAR certification program. NRCan launched the Energy Manager Program, which helps select Canadian organizations identify and adopt energy efficiency practices. The program received 237 applications worth $18 million, and is in the process of signing 25 contribution agreements worth $3.1 million. NRCan launched the ENERGY STAR Multifamily High-Rise Pilot Program – a new five year certification program – in Ontario to improve the energy efficiency of Canadian buildings beyond the provincial building code. NRCan is co-funding 12 initiatives led by provinces, territories, municipalities and other stakeholders to expand energy benchmarking, labelling and disclosure. |
The expansion of the ENERGY STAR Portfolio Manager, the introduction of ENERGY STAR certification for buildings and support for benchmarking, labelling and disclosure initiatives contributes to energy efficiency in Canada's commercial sectors by providing energy management tools. By helping Canadians understand their energy use and save money on their utility bills, NRCan contributes to help improve energy efficiency in Canada's housing stock and this helps to advance progress towards the FSDS target for GHG emissions reductions. SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy Target 7.3 |
| Indicator: Amount of energy saved by industry in petajoules from energy efficiency programs Target: 23.2 petajoules saved annually (equivalent to the annual energy used by more than 208,800 typical Canadian households, excluding transportation) in 2021-22 |
NRCan worked with Canadian industry and North American partners to improve industrial energy efficiency, which has resulted in 3.5 PJ saved since 2018.Footnote 7 Since adopting ISO 50001 as Canada’s premier energy management system in 2011, NRCan has co-funded 60 projects to implement the standard in industrial operations, and adoption continues to accelerate across Canada’s industrial, commercial, and institutional sectors. In addition to the ISO 50001 program, NRCan also co-funded 25 projects to implement an Energy Management Information Systems (EMIS) project. EMIS projects are less complex than ISO 50001, thereby enabling more facilities to improve energy performance and reduce GHG emissions. |
By helping to improve energy management in Canada's industrial sector, NRCan contributes to advance Canada’s progress towards the FSDS target for GHG emissions reductions. SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy Target 7.3 |
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| By 2030, reduce Canada’s total GHG emissions by 30%, relative to 2005 emission levels | Support voluntary action to reduce GHG emissions and adapt to climate change | Undertake RD&D to reduce methane emissions from the oil and gas sector | Indicator: Percentage of reductions of methane emissions through NRCan supported RD&D in the oil and gas sector Target: Contribute to the national target of reducing methane emissions by 40% to 45% by 2025 |
On track to meet the target by 2025. NRCan continues to invest in projects aimed at improving GHG detection, verification and reduction. In 2019-20, NRCan:
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Reducing methane emissions is critical to meeting Canada’s commitment to limit global average temperature rise, as methane has a higher global warming potential than carbon dioxide. RD&D is the critical first step to widespread adoption across the oil and gas sector of innovations that can reduce methane emissions. SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure Target 9.5 |
| By 2030, reduce Canada’s total GHG emissions by 30%, relative to 2005 emission levels | Support voluntary action to reduce GHG emissions and adapt to climate change | Maintain and increase carbon stored in forested lands, by providing tools to monitor and measure carbon fluxes supported by the Carbon Budget Model | Indicator: Number of annual report on carbon emissions and removals in Canada’s managed forests within “The State of Canada’s Forests” Target: 1 report per year |
In 2019, a report was published in the 2019 State of Canada’s Forests that included two forest sustainability indicators related to forest carbon that make use of estimates produced with NRCan’s forest Carbon Budget Model. One sustainability indicator shows forest carbon emissions and removals over the 1990-2017 period (2017 was the latest year of available data for the report). The second sustainability indicator, describes deforestation and afforestation in Canada and shows that the areas involved were very small in 2017. |
Human management and activities in the forest, and natural disturbances like wildfire, all contribute to greenhouse gas emissions. Measuring, monitoring and reporting on the carbon emissions and removals is key for understanding the impact of human activity. In turn, this understanding is needed to promote implementation of activities to reduce emissions and increase removals in forests. SDG 15: Life on Land Target 15.2 |
| NRCan supports these Contributing Actions but does not contribute to meeting a defined FSDS Target for this FSDS Goal | Take a leading role in international agreements and initiatives on climate change | Promote international collaboration, including through the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, Clean Energy Ministerial Mission Innovation and other fora that advance the global transition to low carbon economy | Indicator: Percentage of Canada’s objectives for meetings of international climate and clean energy fora that are advanced through negotiations and consensus Target: 70% |
In 2019-20, Canada successfully advanced its objectives for meetings of international climate and clean energy fora through negotiations and consensus. Canadian policy priorities were consistently recognized and reflected in meeting outcomes. All redlines were enforced, and partners saw Canada as a good compromise builder and consensus achieverFootnote 8. | Through advancing negotiations and consensus at meetings of fora related to climate and clean energy, Canada has taken a leadership role in international agreements and initiatives on climate change. As Chair of the Board and Canadian representative at the UNFCCC technology negotiations, Canada brokered consensus amongst Parties that ensured negotiations resulted in agreement on the Conference of the Parties instructions that will guide the Climate Technology Center and Network for the coming year. NRCan worked diligently to ensure Canada’s success in hosting of CEM10. Through dedicated effort, Canada was able to realize the launching of new initiatives and the introduction on new concepts into discussion (e.g. workers and communities), Canada’s leadership and input helped G20 energy and environmental ministers come to a consensus on a communiqué, which successfully acknowledges the role that energy transitions play in combatting climate change and supports Canada’s vision for a clean energy future. NRCan succeeded in championing the inclusion of energy language in the 2019 G7 Environment Ministers’ communique, the Social (including Labour) Ministers’ communique, and in three of the Development Ministers’ declarations. SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy Target 7.a |
| NRCan supports these Contributing Actions but does not contribute to meeting a defined FSDS Target for this FSDS Goal | Work with partners on climate change | Maintain leadership of Canada’s Climate Change Adaptation Platform Develop and share knowledge and tools, provide science information, and build capacity to enhance the resilience of Canadian communities and businesses in natural resource sectors to the impacts of climate change |
Indicator: Number of new knowledge products released by the Climate Change Adaptation Platform and the Climate Change Geoscience Program Target: 40 new knowledge products by March 31, 2020 (total from both the Climate Change Adaptation Platform and the Climate Change Geoscience Program) |
In 2019-20, 96 new knowledge products released by the Climate Change Adaptation Platform and the Climate Change Geoscience Program. | The knowledge products deliver knowledge and data needed by cities and human settlements adopting and implementing integrated policies and plans towards mitigation and adaptation to climate change. NRCan contributes to climate change adaptation by equipping Canadian communities and businesses in natural resource sectors with knowledge products, which supports progress towards the FSDS goal for effective climate action. SDG 13: Climate Action Target 13.3 |
| NRCan supports these Contributing Actions but does not contribute to meeting a defined FSDS Target for this FSDS Goal | Conduct climate policy research and analysis | Create and disseminate information products and tools in support of decisions on climate change and clean energy issues | Indicator: Percentage of tools and information made available to decision makers in a timely manner Target: 100% |
In 2019-20, 100% of tools and information were made available to decision makers in a timely manner. | By ensuring tools and information are made available to support decision making on climate change and clean energy issues, NRCan contributes to effective action on climate change. SDG 13: Climate Action Target 13.2 |
| NRCan supports these Contributing Actions but does not contribute to meeting a defined FSDS Target for this FSDS Goal | Provide in-kind support and funding for climate resilience | Provide expert advice, and participate in workshops Deliver a contribution program that funds cost-shared, collaborative projects aimed at developing, transferring and integrating adaptation information and tools |
Indicator: Percentage (%) of communities and businesses in natural-resource sectors reporting they have access to tools and information for adaptation decision making Target: 50% |
67% of communities and 72% of businesses in natural-resource sectors reported they have access to tools and information for adaptation decision making through a 2018 survey that will be repeated every 5 years. | By enabling communities and businesses in natural resource sectors across Canada to have access to new knowledge on risks and opportunities to support decision-making and action, NRCan contributes to adaptation to a changing climate and on the Effective Action on Climate Change overall FSDS goal. SDG 13: Climate Action Target 13.3 |
| NRCan supports these Contributing Actions but does not contribute to meeting a defined FSDS Target for this FSDS Goal | Develop a solid base of scientific research and analysis on climate change | Conduct research and analyses to develop scientific knowledge of forest disturbances (e.g., wildfire, pests and climate change), which are used in collaboration with the public and private sectors to forecast impacts and develop mitigation and adaptation strategies | Indicator: Level of participation of the Canadian Forest Service on advisory boards or committees involving the sharing of knowledge on forest disturbances to governments, industry, and non-governmental organizations Starting point: 100 advisory boards and committees Target: Participation on advisory boards and committees stays within 10% of starting point |
In 2019-20, NRCan provided scientific advice to 112 committees and boards related to fire and pest disturbances via participation of research scientists, research professionals and managers. | NRCan research results are disseminated through various means including the sharing of knowledge and information with stakeholders on advisory committees and boards. Participation on these groups provides direct access to CFS expertise to address specific questions and needs related to impacts of climate change on forest disturbances. SDG 15: Life on Land Target 15.2 |
| Indicator: Number of active collaborations with public and private sectors that manage risk or opportunities to human population, natural resources and infrastructure health. Target: Collecting data on 3 collaboration agreements per year. |
In 2019-20, 3 new/renewed agreements were signed including a research and development agreements focusing on mountain pine beetle spread management modeling, an agreement for a molecular tools for the detection of oak wilt, and an agreement for the management of the Hemlock Woolly Adelgid in southwestern Nova Scotia. | ||||
| NRCan supports these Contributing Actions but does not contribute to meeting a defined FSDS Target for this FSDS Goal | Develop a solid base of scientific research and analysis on climate change | Provide new ‘big data’ tools and infrastructure for analyzing earth observation and other geospatial data to detect changes in land, water, natural resources and infrastructure, and facilitate discoverability and access to geospatial information for prevention and implementation of mitigation programs for natural disasters such as flooding | Indicator: Percentage of geospatial information tools and services that are available and accessible Starting Point: 100% of core geospatial data layers were available and fully accessible via an open online portal in 2018-19 Target: 100% of core geospatial data layers are available and fully accessible via an online portal annually |
In 2019-20, the target was met. 100% of core geospatial data layers are available and fully accessible via an online portal. With respect to licences, geospatial data is made discoverable on online public portals and/or online web services. | Access to data and tools is the foundation for research and analysis on climate change. SDG 13: Climate ActionTarget 13.3 |
| Indicator: Percentage of time satellite ground station is available and working Starting Point: The satellite ground station uptime was 99.6% in 2018-19 Target: Satellite ground station uptime every fiscal year is 99.5% |
The satellite ground stations met target 99.5% success in terms of its satellite communications in 2019-2020, and regularly surpassed this target. | ||||
| Indicator: Number of case studies examining data use and impact Starting Point: 0 case studies in 2018-19 Target: 5 case studies per year |
In 2019-20, 5 cases studies examining data use and impact were completed. | ||||
| Indicator: Number of case studies examining use of satellite data Starting Point: 0 case studies in 2018-19 Target: 1 case study annually |
In 2019-20, 1 case study completed with the Northwest Territories Centre for Geomatics using archived Landsat imagery and Canada Centre for Remote Science change detection techniques to detect land cover changes over time. | ||||
| Indicator: Average time elapsed from receipt of image to the staging of emergency flood response products Target: 4 hours or less |
Through satellite imagery interpretation and geospatial mapping, NRCan provided near real time support for situational awareness to several federal and provincial departments including Public Safety Canada, AAFC, Department of Defence, the Canadian Red Cross, and the MB, NB, QC and ON governments. 86 value-added products were derived from satellite data and delivered between 1 and 4 hours after acquisition. |
FSDS Goal: Modern and Resilient Infrastructure
| FSDS Target(s) |
FSDS Contributing Action(s) | Corresponding Departmental Action(s) | Starting Point(s), Target(s) and Performance Indicator(s) for Departmental Actions | Results Achieved | Contribution by each departmental result to the FSDS goal and target |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| By the end of 2025-26, invest $20 billion in funding for green infrastructure initiatives that reduce GHG emissions and improve climate resilience and environmental quality | Work with partners on green infrastructure | Enhance the Energy Code for Buildings by 2020 and move towards net zero-energy-ready buildings | Starting point for commercial/ institutional buildings: 2011 model National Energy Code for Buildings (NECB) Starting point for housing: 2015 model National Building Code (NBC), Part 9.36 Indicator: Net-Zero Energy Ready (NZER) Code is available Targets: 1st tier of NZER codes for new construction will be published in 2020 and the 2nd and 3rd tier by 2022 |
On track to meet the target by 2022. In January 2020, the National Research Council (NRC) launched a public review of the proposed 2020 national energy codes (Section 9.36 of the National Building Code and the National Energy Code for Buildings) leading to net-zero-energy-ready. |
By working with partners to improve the energy efficiency of codes in target sectors, NRCan contributes to greener infrastructure for Canada. SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy Target 7.3 |
| By the end of 2025-26, invest $20 billion in funding for green infrastructure initiatives that reduce GHG emissions and improve climate resilience and environmental quality | Work with partners on green infrastructure | Demonstrate key emerging Smart Grid technologies essential to integrate a higher proportion of renewables onto the grid. Support RD&D to drive down the cost and create market confidence in net zero building construction Demonstrate innovative clean energy solutions for northern communities and reduce their reliance on diesel power Facilitate the development and deployment of next generation electric vehicle charging infrastructure |
Indicator: Ratio of NRCan program investments in clean energy S&T to leveraged funding from partners Target: 1:1 ratio |
In 2019-20, the ratio of partner investments in clean energy science and technology program to NRCan funding was 3:1. This means that an estimated $3 was leveraged for every $1 spent by NRCan.Footnote 9 | NRCan helps to support climate change goals by supporting research, development and demonstration RD&D projects and initiatives that accelerate energy innovation and advances in new clean technologies and solutions to reduce GHG and other air emissions from the production and use of energy. SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure Target 9.4 |
| Indicator: Amount of reduction in GHG emissions from NRCan funded projects of green innovation Target: 11.44 megatons annually (equivalent to 2.86 million passenger cars removed from our roads) by 2030 |
Currently on trackFootnote 10 to meet the target by 2030. NRCan is investing in priority Green Infrastructure research, development and demonstration projects in priority areas, including smart grids, buildings and reducing diesel in the North, in order to help advance new clean energy technologies towards commercial readiness and widespread adoption. GI programs have invested:
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| Indicator: Percentage of projects that advance Clean Energy Technologies Target: 50% of RD&D projects advance the technology readiness level of emerging technologies, by one level, by 2023 |
It is premature to report on Technological Readiness Levels (TRL) for Green Infrastructure Programs as projects are all still active. TRL will be reported after project completion. Footnote 11 | ||||
| By the end of 2025-26, invest $20 billion in funding for green infrastructure initiatives that reduce GHG emissions and improve climate resilience and environmental quality | Work with partners on green infrastructure | Support the shift from higher to lower-emitting types of transportation, including through investing in infrastructure | Indicator: Number of charging and refuelling stations (by fuel type) planned, under development and completed through the program Target for Phase 2: 900 electric vehicle charging stations, 15 natural gas and 12 hydrogen refueling stations by 2024 |
On track to meet 2024 target. As of March 2020, the Electric Vehicle and Alternative Fuel Infrastructure Deployment (EVAFID) Initiative has resulted in the development of 837 electric vehicle fast charging stations, 21 natural gas stations, and eight hydrogen stations. Announced in Budget 2019, the Zero Emission Vehicle Infrastructure Program focuses on deploying electric charging infrastructure in workplaces, public parking spots, commercial and multi-unit residential buildings, and remote locations. To date, projects are in place to deliver over 2,600 electric vehicle chargers. The program aims to deploy 20,000 level 2 chargers by 2026. |
These funded projects contribute to the $20 billion target in green infrastructure initiatives to reduce GHG emissions by leveraging its investments. NRCan’s continued collaboration with partners to fund green infrastructure initiatives helps to reduce GHG emissions and improve climate resilience and environmental quality. SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure Target 9.4 |
FSDS Goal: Healthy Coasts and Oceans
| FSDS Target(s) |
FSDS Contributing Action(s) | Corresponding Departmental Action(s) | Starting Point(s), Target(s) and Performance Indicator(s) for Departmental Actions | Results Achieved | Contribution by each departmental result to the FSDS goal and target |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| By 2020, 10% of coastal and marine areas are conserved through networks of protected areas and other effective area-based conservation measures | Protect and manage marine and coastal areas | Complete resource and economic assessments to support the establishment of marine protected areas under the Marine Conservation Target initiative | 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 5% of marine and coastal areas by 2017 and 10% by 2020 Starting point: Before 2017-18, no assessments were completed. New assessments are required to inform decisions on marine protected areas Target: 10 qualitative or quantitative resource and economic assessments over 3 years, by the end of 2019-20 |
In 2019-20, 8 qualitative resource assessments were completed and released, and 2 preliminary internal resource assessments were made available to Fisheries and Oceans Canada. In addition to the 12 assessments that were done in 2018-19, this target has been met. |
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 (under the GSC Geoscience for New Energy Supply Program and under the Marine Geoscience for Marine Spatial Planning) 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 14: Life Below Water Target 14.2 |
| By 2020, 10% of coastal and marine areas are conserved through networks of protected areas and other effective area-based conservation measures | Protect and manage marine and coastal areas | Encourage industrial RD&D to improve recovery technologies, as well as inform integrated response plans | Indicator: Number of scientific publications and products related to measurable advances in spill recovery in the marine environment Target: Beginning in 2019, at least one scientific publication or product per year |
5 scientific publications/products related to measurable advances in spill recovery in the marine environment were developed and disseminated in 2019-20. | NRCan supported the conservation of coastal and marine areas through its scientific research on oil spill recovery in the marine environment. Through this work, NRCan helped to strengthen the understanding among partners of emergency response plans and decisions for spill pollution, which contributes to the protection of Canada’s marine and coastal environment. |
FSDS Goal: Pristine Lakes and Rivers
| FSDS Target(s) |
FSDS Contributing Action(s) | Corresponding Departmental Action(s) | Starting Point(s), Target(s) and Performance Indicator(s) for Departmental Actions | Results Achieved | Contribution by each departmental result to the FSDS goal and target |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NRCan supports these Contributing Actions but does not contribute to meeting a defined FSDS Target for this FSDS Goal | Work with partners on water quality and ecosystem health | Using landscape–level considerations, assess influences of forest management and other disturbances on forest and aquatic biodiversity and ecosystem services with academic, provincial and industry partners. This will be supported by:
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Indicator: Level of participation of the Canadian Forest Service on advisory boards or committees involving the sharing of knowledge on forest ecosystems to governments, industry and nongovernmental organizations Starting point: 100 advisory boards and committees Target: Participation on advisory boards and committees stays within 10% of starting point |
In 2019-20, NRCan provided scientific advice to 118 committees and boards via participation of research scientist, research professionals and managers. | NRCan research results are disseminated through various means including the sharing of knowledge and information with stakeholders on advisory committees and boards. Participation on these groups provides direct access to CFS expertise to address specific questions and needs related to the forest health and the sustainable management of forests. Participation on the advisory boards and committees support pristine lakes and rivers under topics relating to watershed sensitivity, water resource protection, and wetland recovery following herbicide application. One specific example is the long-term forest research conducted at the Turkey Lakes Watershed site. SDG 15: Life on Land Target 15.1 |
| NRCan supports these Contributing Actions but does not contribute to meeting a defined FSDS Target for this FSDS Goal | Work with partners on water quality and ecosystem health | Conduct research to better understand the risk potential (i.e. remobilization) of metals in lake and river ecosystems in a changing climate | Indicator: Scientific evidence (e.g. publications, reports) used for development of environmental policy/guidance Target: 3 by 2023 |
In 2019-20, 1 journal article on the geochemical response of contaminated lake sediments to climate change was published. Between 2017-19, 2 other publications were completed on the effects of metal-bearing mine dusts on surface water chemistry and one on the potential climate change effects on the geochemical stability of waste and mobility of elements in receiving environments. The target to have 3 scientific evidence by 2023 has been met. |
The work provides key research to inform the FSDS goal relating to pristine lakes and rivers and to climate change. SDG 15: Life on Land Target 15.1 |
| NRCan supports these Contributing Actions but does not contribute to meeting a defined FSDS Target for this FSDS Goal | Work with partners on water quality and ecosystem health | Develop space-based technologies (e.g. remote sensing) and modelling forecasting methods that will allow a quantitative evaluation of terrestrial water storage (groundwater resources) | Indicator: Development of space-based technologies that advance water mapping and monitoring and new sensor evaluation and readiness Starting point: 2018-19 Target: Completion by 2019-20 |
In 2019-20, NRCan is in the final review and sign-off stage. We have developed space-based technologies that advance water mapping and monitoring and new sensor evaluation and readiness. |
This supports work with partners on water quality and ecosystem health. SDG 15: Life on Land Target 15.1 |
| Indicator: Completed specifications document outlining the parameters of Terrestrial Water Storage datasets detailing requirements, formats, and accuracy Starting point: 2018-19 Target: Completion by 2019-20 |
In 2019-20, NRCan completed specifications document outlining the parameters of Terrestrial Water Storage datasets detailing requirements, formats, and accuracy. | ||||
| Indicator: Development of Total Water Storage change datasets at national scale from Gravity Recovery and Climate Experiment (GRACE) satellite measurements Starting point: 2018-19 Target: Completion by 2019-20 |
In 2019-20, NRCan developed Total Water Storage change datasets at national scale from Gravity Recovery and Climate Experiment (GRACE) satellite measurements. | ||||
| NRCan supports these Contributing Actions but does not contribute to meeting a defined FSDS Target for this FSDS Goal | Work with partners on water quality and ecosystem health | Complete the National Hydro Network by creating and maintaining seamless transboundary watersheds and sub-watershed data that can be jointly used by agencies on both sides of the Canada/US border | Indicator: With partners, define ongoing maintenance (Phase V) for the National Hydro Network with partners under the International Joint Commission Target: Completion by 2019-20 |
In 2019-20, maintenance plans and mechanisms have been defined with partners. Final revision and signature underway | Water flows continuously across the 9,000 km Canada/USA border. Developing and maintaining seamless transboundary watershed data directly supports analysis of water quality and ecosystem health for lakes and rivers located along our shared border. SDG 15: Life on Land Target 15.1 |
| NRCan supports these Contributing Actions but does not contribute to meeting a defined FSDS Target for this FSDS Goal | Better understand lake and river ecosystems | Map and assess Canadian regional aquifer systems to support water resources management | Indicator: Number of acknowledgments from public and/or private sector organizations incorporating NRCan's groundwater geoscience information and tools into their products (e.g. aquifer maps and data, methods and approaches, plans and reports) Target: 5 per year |
In 2019-20, only 3 acknowledgments from public and/or private sector organizations incorporating NRCan's groundwater geoscience information and tools into their products were received. Users are able to provide acknowledgments based on disseminated publications. Publications were released late in the year for this program, which did not leave as much time for users to give feedback on impacts. | Central to all of these application of the NRCan work is understanding of the sustainable management of groundwater contribution to sustained surface water flows. Groundwater flow is crucial to surface water flows and half the year, it is critical to sewage effluent dilution and water temperature moderation during summer that controls pathogen loading in rivers (e.g., Grand River). The modelling also supports long term studies of groundwater flow paths and the sustainable water quality over centuries to millennium. SDG 15: Life on Land Target 15.1 |
| NRCan supports these Contributing Actions but does not contribute to meeting a defined FSDS Target for this FSDS Goal | Better understand lake and river ecosystems | Develop international groundwater resource data management standards to improve datasets interoperability | Indicator: Number of citations from public and/or private sector organizations incorporating NRCan's groundwater geoscience information and tools into their products (e.g. aquifer maps and data, methods and approaches, plans and reports) Target: 5 per year |
In 2019-20, a total of 7 citations from Public, Academia and Private sectors incorporating NRCan’s groundwater geoscience information and tools into their products were made. | By contributing to the global groundwater monitoring (IGRAC-UNESCO) through the development of standards, disseminating acquired data and contributing to the groundwater management that is essential for rural drinking water and ecosystem health, NRCan contributes to the FSDS goal of Pristine Lakes and Rivers. SDG 17: Partnerships to achieve the Goal Target 17.6 |
| NRCan supports these Contributing Actions but does not contribute to meeting a defined FSDS Target for this FSDS Goal | Better understand lake and river ecosystems | Conduct research projects to evaluate the role of modifying factors on the fate and effect of metals associated with regulated mining discharge into lake and river ecosystems in Canada | Indicator: Number of scientific evidence (e.g. publications, reports) used for development of policy/guidance Target: 3 by 2023 |
On track to meet the target by 2023. In 2019-20, one journal article that assesses the fate and effect of metals in snow associated with atmospheric deposition in the oil sands region of Canada was developed. As reported in the 2018-19 DRR, one report was completed on the regulation of selenium for the mining industry in 2018-19. One more report is expected to be completed next fiscal year. |
By producing scientific evidence that supports the development of policy and guidance, NRCan contributes to improved regulations and decreased environmental effects of metals and mines on lakes and rivers. The works provides key research to inform the FSDS goal relating to pristine lakes and rivers and to climate change. SDG 15: Life on Land Target 15.1 |
| NRCan supports these Contributing Actions but does not contribute to meeting a defined FSDS Target for this FSDS Goal | Use legislation and regulations to protect lake and river ecosystems | Provide scientific evidence to improve the environmental relevance of Metal and Mining Effluent Regulations (MMERs) | Indicator: Scientific evidence (e.g. publications, reports) used for development of policy/regulations CanmetMINING will also provide scientific advice to regulators (Environment and Climate Change Canada) in the development of MMERs Target: 3 by 2023 |
In 2019-20, two reports used for the development of policy/regulations were published.
In addition to the two reviews that were completed in 2018-19, this target has been met. |
This work directly feeds to ECCC guideline and regulations development in relation to rare earth elements and also aligns with the goal to protect aquatic ecosystems. SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production Target 12.4 |
| NRCan supports these Contributing Actions but does not contribute to meeting a defined FSDS Target for this FSDS Goal | Use legislation and regulations to protect lake and river ecosystems | Develop method to assess the aquatic hazard classification of metals and metal compounds | Indicator: Scientific evidence (e.g. publications, reports) used for both domestic and international regulation development Target: 3 by 2023 |
Target was met in 2018-19 with the publication of three reports on method development on removal of metals in the water column, a weigh of evidence approach for assessing metals and the characterization of tungsten for aquatic hazard classification. In 2019-20, one additional report was published on the application of the Transformation/Dissolution Protocol Extension (T/DP-E) to low concentration copper solutions. |
The work supports the FSDS goals related to pristine lakes and rivers and healthy coasts and oceans by assessing the impact of copper in aquatic environments. SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production Target 12.4 |
FSDS Goal: Safe and Healthy Communities
| FSDS Target(s) |
FSDS Contributing Action(s) | Corresponding Departmental Action(s) | Starting Point(s), Target(s) and Performance Indicator(s) for Departmental Actions | Results Achieved | Contribution by each departmental result to the FSDS goal and target |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NRCan supports these Contributing Actions but does not contribute to meeting a defined FSDS Target for this FSDS Goal | Prevent environmental emergencies or mitigate their impacts | Release of scientific publications, reports and maps to inform the safe location, design and operation of the built environment; support the environmentally and socially responsible development of natural resources; and support the plans and operation of emergency management organizations | Indicator: Number of new knowledge products released to open and accessible databases Target: 25 annually |
In 2019-20, 79 new publications (this included 60 peer-reviewed publications, 17 Open Files, and 2 reports) and 4 databases were released. | These knowledge products contribute to hazard models that underpin codes, safe development, and land use planning. They also support emergency management organizations in understanding the frequency, magnitude and spatial extent of hazards in their jurisdiction. SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities Target 11.b |
| NRCan supports these Contributing Actions but does not contribute to meeting a defined FSDS Target for this FSDS Goal | Prevent environmental emergencies or mitigate their impacts | Conduct and provide real-time seismic and geomagnetic monitoring information to governments, emergency management agencies, critical infrastructure operators, media outlets and the public | Indicator: Percentage (%) of earthquakes of magnitude 4.0 or higher within Canada for which a notification was issued in four minutes or less from the time of sufficient data availability Starting point: to be set from 2016-17 results Target: 75% within four minutes or less from the time of sufficient data availability, and 99% within 10 minutes |
In 2019-20, 97% of notifications were issues in four minutes or less and 100% in 10 minutes or less from the time of sufficient data availability. | Rapid notification to responders of the location and magnitude of an earthquake enables faster and better-targeted response, mitigating the impacts of the earthquake to populations and infrastructure. SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities Target 11.b |
| NRCan supports these Contributing Actions but does not contribute to meeting a defined FSDS Target for this FSDS Goal | Prevent environmental emergencies or mitigate their impacts | Develop new science and technology to ensure readiness for the launch of the RADARSAT Constellation Mission. Data collected from the Mission would support efforts in maritime surveillance, disaster management and ecosystem monitoring | Target: Maintain successful readiness for RADARSAT Constellation Mission | In 2019-20, as the RADARSAT Constellation Mission (RCM) was operationalized, NRCan’s Earth Observation Data Management System provided access to RCM data to Government of Canada users incorporating new data from Canada’s RCM satellites (acquired at, pre-processed and transported through NRCan’s ground segment), enabling daily updates of emergency flood maps instead of previous updates every 2-3 days using RADARSAT-2. The NRCan ground station team successfully supported the RCM, its Launch and Early Orbit phase (LEOP), commissioning and operationalization of the RCM. | Supports the prevention and mitigation of environmental emergencies and their impacts. SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities Target 11.b |
| NRCan supports these Contributing Actions but does not contribute to meeting a defined FSDS Target for this FSDS Goal | Provide information to inform action and decision making | Implement Interim Measures to guide federal decisions on proposed major energy transmission projects (such as oil and gas pipelines), including the use of science, evidence, and traditional Indigenous knowledge; enhanced public engagement and Indigenous consultation; and direct and upstream GHG assessments | Indicator: Percentage of proposed major energy transmission project reviews that fulfill the Interim Measures during the interim period Target: 100% |
Interim measures were fulfilled for 100% of proposed major energy transmission projects reviews in 2019-20. | Major energy transmission project reviews inform decision makers and ensure the public and Indigenous groups are engaged on proposed resource projects, and contribute to informed action and decision-making. This work supports progress towards the FSDS goal for safe and healthy communities. SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities Target 11.b |
| NRCan supports these Contributing Actions but does not contribute to meeting a defined FSDS Target for this FSDS Goal | Provide information to inform action and decision making | Co-develop and support the operations of Indigenous Advisory and Monitoring Committees for the Trans Mountain Pipeline Expansion Project (TMX) and Line 3 Pipeline Replacement Program as a meaningful, transparent and accountable forum through which Indigenous communities can engage with and provide input to federal regulators and the proponent as well as participate in monitoring the project over its full lifecycle | Indicator: Percentage (%) of priorities or issues identified by the Indigenous Advisory and Monitoring Committees or Indigenous communities potentially impacted by the TMX or Line 3 projects that are being (or have been) addressed through Committee or federal actions or investments Target: To be developed in collaboration with Indigenous partners |
Since 2017, 88% of priorities or issues identified by the Indigenous Advisory and Monitoring Committees (IAMCs) or Indigenous communities impacted by the TMX or Line 3 projects (through funding proposals) are being (or have been) addressed through IAMC or related federal actions or investments. | By supporting meaningful Indigenous participation in the full lifecycle of energy infrastructure development, NRCan contributes to informed action and decision making to support health and well-being of Indigenous communities and promotes economic development in the Canadian energy sector. SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure Target 9.1 |
| NRCan supports these Contributing Actions but does not contribute to meeting a defined FSDS Target for this FSDS Goal | Provide information to inform action and decision making | Provide innovative scientific information to distinguish between the effects of human activity and resource development and those effects produced by natural processes on the environment | Indicator: Number of acknowledgements from public and/or private sector organizations incorporating NRCan's environmental geoscience information into their products Target: 5 per year |
In 2019-20, 7 acknowledgment from public and/or private sector organisations incorporating NRCan’s environmental geoscience information into their products were made. | The program directly contributes information to inform action and decision making as per the Results Achieved cell. Decision makers have a better understanding of project impacts to enhance sustainability of natural resources development in order for Canadians to live in clean, sustainable communities that contribute to their health and well-being. SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities Target 11.a |
| NRCan supports these Contributing Actions but does not contribute to meeting a defined FSDS Target for this FSDS Goal | Provide information to inform action and decision making | Cooperate with the Canadian Environmental Assessment Agency, review boards of the North and other federal stakeholders by providing science-based evidence and information to support environmental assessments | Indicator: Percentage of projects where NRCan has provided advice that is ultimately incorporated into an environmental assessment process Target: 100% |
Out of the project assessments for which NRCan provided technical advice, seven of them arrived at decisions in 2019-2020. This represents 100% of projects. NRCan provided advice on hydrogeology, seismic hazards, permafrost, and marine geoscience. NRCan’s advice was represented in the final assessment report for each of these projects. | By providing scientific expertise during environmental assessment processes, NRCan contributes to informed action and decision-making pertaining to proposed projects to support safe and healthy communities. |
| NRCan supports the FSDS Goal but does not contribute to meeting a defined FSDS Target | Provide information to inform action and decision making | Provide oversight of federal funding for the Province of Saskatchewan’s Gunnar Mine Remediation Project | Indicator: Percentage of payments made to Saskatchewan in the year they are required for eligible Phase 2 and Phase 3 expenses, as defined in the 2006 Memorandum of Agreement Starting Point: Payment of $1.13 million was made to Saskatchewan in 2007 for the federal share of Phase 1 of the Project |
Further federal funding was not provided in 2019-20 as Saskatchewan did not have the required license and permit necessary for remediation under the 2006 Memorandum of Agreement entered into between Canada and Saskatchewan. The province has been proceeding with the project under other approvals it has received and other approvals are still pending. | Information not available |
| NRCan supports the FSDS Goal but does not contribute to meeting a defined FSDS Target | Provide information to inform action and decision making | Continue efforts to enhance the safety and security of federally regulated infrastructure (i.e. energy transportation), including through legislative and regulatory measures and the modernization of the National Energy Board | Indicator: Number of assessments and/or updates made to energy regulations or legislations Target: 2 per year |
In 2019-20, NRCan completed assessments and updates to five energy regulations and one legislation. NRCan continued to provide support for the Canadian Energy Regulator Act (CERA) as it made its way through the parliamentary process as part of Bill C-69. This work involved providing analysis, assessments and recommendations to inform decisions on proposed amendments, which received royal assent and repealed and replaced the National Energy Board Act when CERA came into force on August 28, 2019. The department also successfully developed and amended one regulation prior to CERA’s coming into force: the Transitional Regulations for the Purpose of the NEB Cost Recovery Regulations. NRCan and the Canada Energy Regulator developed and completed four regulations after CERA’s coming into force: the Canadian Energy Regulator Pipeline Damage Prevention Regulations – Authorizations; the Canadian Energy Regulator Pipeline Damage Prevention Regulations – Obligations of Pipeline Companies; the Circumstances for Excluding Periods from Time Limits Regulations; and the International and Interprovincial Power Line Damage Prevention Regulations — Authorization. | By supporting the establishment of a sound liability, legislative and regulatory regime, NRCan contributes to informed action and decision-making for oil and gas development. SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure Target 9.1 |
FSDS Goal: Low-Carbon Government
| FSDS Target(s) |
FSDS Contributing Action(s) | Corresponding Departmental Action(s) | Starting Point(s), Target(s) and Performance Indicator(s) for Departmental Actions | Results Achieved | Contribution by each departmental result to the FSDS goal and target |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Reduce greenhouse gas emissions from federal government buildings and fleets by 40% below 2005 levels by 2030, with an aspiration to achieve it by 2025 | Improve the energy efficiency of our buildings/ operations | Support the Treasury Board Secretariat and Environment and Climate Change Canada in the development and the implementation of an action plan (under the departmental Low Carbon umbrella) for buildings and fleets in order to achieve the departmental GHG reduction goal of 40% by 2030 | Indicator: Percentage (%) change in GHG emissions from facilities and fleets from fiscal year 2005-06 to 2030 Target: 40% reduction in NRCan facility and fleet emissions by 2030 from 2005 levels |
In 2019-20, GHG emissions from NRCan’s facilities and fleets equalled 42.4% from 2005-06 levels. NRCan is also directly supporting 13 departments and agencies by providing technical advice and analyses to help them meet GHG reduction targets in their federal facilities and fleets. |
By reducing energy use through efficiency measures in its building and fleets, NRCan contributes to the FSDS target to reduce GHG emissions from federal government buildings and fleet by 40% below its 2005 levels by 2030, with an aspiration to achieve it by 2025. SDG 13: Climate Action Target 13.2 |
| Reduce greenhouse gas emissions from federal government buildings and fleets by 40% below 2005 levels by 2030, with an aspiration to achieve it by 2025 | Improve the energy efficiency of our buildings/ operations | Continue to modernize the departmental workplace to achieve more efficient and productive use of space through Workplace 2.0 standards | Indicator: Percentage of office workspace at NRCan’s primary office location in the National Capital Region, the Booth Street Complex (555, 601, 615, 580 and 588 Booth St. and 560 Rochester St.) that meets GC Workplace standards Target: By 2025, 25% of office workspace at the Booth Street Complex is to GC Workplace standards |
As of 2019-20, NRCan has 2 sites that have been renovated to follow GCWorkplace Standards: 580 Booth, 15th Floor 800 Burrard, 5th Floor The percentage of total office space fitted up to GCWorkplace is 2.24%. NRCan is also undertaking an assessment of it’s workspace to understand the costs and issues associated with meeting the target of 25% GCWorkplace office fit-up by 2025, as this target was established under an typical office space environment, while many of NRCan’s building are special purpose science and laboratory workplaces. In addition, the Covid-19 pandemic has brought about new discussions regarding how and where employees work and this dialogue is expected to continue as part of the future of the workplace and may affect on the design of federal workspace moving forward. Footnote 12 |
The modernization of NRCan's workplace contributes to improved energy efficiency of our building operations and helps to advance progress towards the FSDS target for GHG emissions reductions from federal government buildings and fleets. SDG 13: Climate Action Target 13.2 |
| Reduce greenhouse gas emissions from federal government buildings and fleets by 40% below 2005 levels by 2030, with an aspiration to achieve it by 2025 | Improve the energy efficiency of our buildings/ operations | Support 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 | Indicator: Amount of energy saved in terajoules per year for all federal organization projects that received support from NRCan Targets:
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Working towards this 2030 target, the Greening Government Operations provides an enhanced suite of technical advisory services for federal organizations seeking energy and GHG reductions from their building and fleet operations. NRCan services influence projects with potential GHG savings of 192 kilotons, and energy savings of 53,513 gigajoules from 2017-18 to 2019-20. |
By providing tools and technical support to federal organizations, NRCan contributed to reductions in GHG emissions and supported the FSDS goal for low-carbon operations. SDG 13: Climate Action Target 13.2 |
| Indicator: Number of federal organizations (departments, agencies and Crown corporations) provided with information, tools and services to improve energy performance of federal buildings Starting point: 64 federal organizations in 2017-18 fiscal yearFootnote 13 Target: Total increase from 64 to 70 by 2022 |
As of 2019-20, there were 59 federal organizations that received NRCan services in support of the 2022 target. Services delivered include:
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By providing tools and technical support to federal organizations, NRCan contributed to reductions in GHG emissions and supported the FSDS goal for low-carbon operations. SDG 13: Climate Action Target 13.2 |
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| Reduce greenhouse gas emissions from federal government buildings and fleets by 40% below 2005 levels by 2030, with an aspiration to achieve it by 2025 | Improve the energy efficiency of our buildings/ operations | Modernize the Building Management Plan (BMP) process and update the Building Condition Reports (BCR) with a focus on energy efficiency and through an environmental lens | Indicator: Number of major sites that have BCR processes completed Starting point: NRCan began a new multi-year round of BCRs in the 2016-17 fiscal year Target: 50% of major sites will have BCR completed by 2020-21 that would provide current “health” status of the building portfolio, a prerequisite to the planning of any improvement |
In 2019-20, NRCan completed Carbon Neutral Studies for 2 of its largest facilities. These studies included Partial Building Assessments (BCA) and bring the total to 14 assessments or roughly 47% of the priority buildings in need of assessment.Footnote 14 | Updated and modern BMP processes including BCRs and studies with a focus on energy efficiency contribute to improved environmental performance of the Department’s buildings. Ultimately, these efforts contribute to achieve the federal government target of reducing greenhouse gas emissions from federal government buildings and fleets by 40% below 2005 levels by 2030, with an aspiration to achieve it by 2025. SDG 13: Climate Action Target 13.2 |
| Reduce greenhouse gas emissions from federal government buildings and fleets by 40% below 2005 levels by 2030, with an aspiration to achieve it by 2025 | Modernize our fleet | Support the Treasury Board Secretariat and Environment and Climate Change Canada in the development and the implementation of an action plan (under the departmental Low Carbon umbrella) for buildings and fleets in order to achieve the departmental GHG reduction goal of 40% by 2030 | Indicator: Percentage (%) change in GHG emissions from fleet from fiscal year 2005-06 Starting point: GHG emissions from NRCan fleet in fiscal year 2005–06 (base year): = 1.78 ktCO2e Target: By 2030, there is a 40% reduction in GHG emissions from fleet from fiscal year 2005-06 |
In 2019-20, the percentage change in emissions from fleet is 53.5%. The percentage change in 2019-20 emissions from buildings is 41.8%. The percentage change in 2019-20 emissions from both buildings and fleet is 42.4%. |
Reducing energy use through efficiency measures and modernizing NRCan’s fleet contributes to reduced GHG emissions. These actions contribute to achieving the federal government goal to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from federal government buildings and fleets by 40% below 2005 levels by 2030, with an aspiration to achieve it by 2025. SDG 13: Climate Action Target 13.2 |
| Reduce greenhouse gas emissions from federal government buildings and fleets by 40% below 2005 levels by 2030, with an aspiration to achieve it by 2025 | Support the transition to a low-carbon economy through green procurement | Ensure that all performance agreements of Procurement Managers include contribution to, and are in support of, the Policy on Green Procurement | Indicator: Number and percentage of managers and functional heads of materiel and of procurement whose performance evaluation includes support and contribution toward green procurement Target: 90% by March 31, 2019 and ongoing |
In 2019-20, 100% (1) of Materiel managers and functional heads had performance agreements that included how they would support and contribute to green procurement. 100% (1) of Procurement managers and functional heads had performance agreements that included how they would support and contribute to green procurement. |
Embedding environmental considerations related to purchasing decisions into the corporate culture helps advance greener procurement, which supports the federal government goal for a low-carbon government. SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production Target 12.7 |
| Reduce greenhouse gas emissions from federal government buildings and fleets by 40% below 2005 levels by 2030, with an aspiration to achieve it by 2025 | Support the transition to a low-carbon economy through green procurement | Raise departmental awareness of green procurement options related to Public Services and Procurement Canada standing offers | Indicator: Number and percentage of procurement and/or materiel management specialists who completed the Canada School of Public Service Green Procurement course (C215) or equivalent Target: 97% (or 34 specialists) by March 31, 2020 |
In 2019-20, 92% (12) of materiel management specialists took the course before March 31, 2019. 100% (36) of Procurement specialists have completed the Green Procurement course (C215). |
Embedding environmental considerations related to purchasing decisions into the corporate culture, contribute to greener procurement and contribute to achieve the federal government goal to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from federal government buildings and fleets by 40% below 2005 levels by 2030, with an aspiration to achieve it by 2025. SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production Target 12.7 |
| Reduce greenhouse gas emissions from federal government buildings and fleets by 40% below 2005 levels by 2030, with an aspiration to achieve it by 2025 | Promote sustainable travel practices | Maintain GHG emission levels from business-related travel below the 2008-09 baseline level | Indicator: Emissions associated with business-related travel (in tons of carbon dioxide equivalent in the year), as provided by Public Services and Procurement Canada Starting point: 5729 tons in 2008-09 Target: Greenhouse gas emissions associated with business travel will be reduced to 4010 tons (30% reduction) by March 31, 2021 |
On track to meet the target by 2021. In 2019-20, GHG emissions associated with business travel was reduced by 51% (4050 tons). |
Promoting sustainable travel practises and informing employees of alternative meeting arrangements, contribute to reduced GHG emissions and contribute to achieve the federal government goal to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from federal government buildings and fleets by 40% below 2005 levels by 2030, with an aspiration to achieve it by 2025. SDG 13: Climate Action Target 13.2 |
4. Report on integrating sustainable development
NRCan will continue to ensure that its decision-making process includes consideration of 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.
Public statements on the results of NRCan’s assessments are made public when an initiative has undergone a detailed strategic environmental assessment (SEA) (see here). 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.
During the 2019–20 reporting cycle, NRCan had 54 SEA processes, and 49 of these were completed in 2019-20. Of these SEAs, 35 contributed to the FSDS.
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