ARCHIVED - 2011-12 DSDS Reporting

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Strategic Environmental Assessment Highlights
2011-12 DSDS Reporting
Additional departmental reporting on sustainable development activities
1. Green Mining Initiative
2. Clean Air Agenda programs
Greening Government Operations

Strategic Environmental Assessment Highlights

The Department uses a tri-level process for conducting Strategic Environmental Assessments (SEAs), which is outlined on NRCan’s SEA website:
http://www.nrcan.gc.ca/environmental-assessment-strategic/55

In 2011-12, the impacts of proposals on FSDS themes, goals and targets were taken into consideration at each level of the process. Detailed SEAs, the third level of the process, were completed when important positive or negative environmental effects were likely to result from the implementation of a given proposal. For each Detailed SEA conducted, NRCan issued a public statement. The purpose of the public statement is to demonstrate that through the Detailed SEA, environmental factors have been addressed and integrated into the decision-making process for approved initiatives.

In 2011-12, NRCan achieved all of its SEA commitments, including:

Launching a new internal Directive on Environmental Assessment for NRCan that resulted in the existing environmental policy being updated. This included further specifics on the SEA management process, and references to the Federal Sustainable Development Act, as well as the reporting requirements of the main estimates documents cycle.
Updating all NRCan guidance, templates, training materials and inter/intranet sites to support the new internal Directive and the revised guidelines for implementing the Cabinet Directive on the Environmental Assessment of Policy, Plan and Program Proposals.
Providing briefings and training on SEA to over 80 NRCan staff during the fiscal year.
Collaborating with the Canadian Environmental Assessment Agency (the Agency) and with the interdepartmental network of SEA coordinators to enhance the community of practice. For example, NRCan provided advice and input to Agency-led initiatives, such as guidance for preparation of public statements of environmental effects, the revision of the Agency's SEA course materials, and to the interdepartmental working group on results-based and risk-based approaches to SEA.

In addition, NRCan exceeded the 95% compliance rate for SEA completion. Of the proposals subject to NRCan's SEA process, 55% had no impact on or were not applicable to the FSDS, while the remaining 45% contributed to FSDS Themes, Goals and Targets. The majority contributed to the first two FSDS Themes, “Addressing Climate Change and Air Quality”, and “Maintaining Water Quality and Availability’. Targets most often cited were: Target 1.1 "Climate Change Mitigation", Target 2.1 "Air Pollutants" Target 2.3 "Chemicals Management", and Target 3.1 "Fresh Water Quality.

2011-12 DSDS Reporting

Please note that the results information below is presented by Sub-Activity based on NRCan’s 2011-12 Program Activity Architecture in order to improve consistency of reporting with NRCan’s 2011-12 Departmental Performance Report. Each Sub-Activity has a specific set of indicators and contributes to one or multiple FSDS Implementation Strategies.

SA 1.1.1 - Minerals and Metals Markets, Innovation, and Investment

SA 1.1.2 - Forest Products Market Access and Development

SA 1.1.3 - Forest Product Innovation

SA 1.1.5 - Forest-based Community Partnerships

SA 1.1.6 - Energy and Mineral Exploration

SA 1.1.7 - Domestic and International Energy Policy

SA 2.1.1 - Materials for Energy

SA 2.1.2 - Renewable Energy Deployment

SA 2.1.3 - Clean Energy Science and Technology

SA 2.1.4 - Energy Efficiency and Alternative Transportation Fuels

SA 2.1.5 - Pulp and Paper Green Transformation

SA 2.2.1 - Green Mining Initiative

SA 2.2.2 - Forest Ecosystem Science and Application

SA 2.2.3 - Environmental Geoscience

SA 2.2.4 - Radioactive Waste Management

SA 3.1.3 - Climate Change Geoscience and Adaptation

SA 3.2.1 - Essential Geographic Information and Support

SA 1.1.1 - Minerals and Metals Markets, Innovation, and Investment

Theme I - Addressing Climate Change and Air Quality

Goal 1 - Climate Change

Target 1.1 - Climate Change Mitigation

Implementation Strategy

1.1.29 Finance projects that would, among other things, help to optimize resource use, valuing residual resources, and contribute to eco-efficiency. (DEC, NRCan)

Goal 2 - Air Pollution

Target 2.1 - Air Pollutants

Implementation Strategy

2.1.17 Finance projects that would, among other things, help to optimize resource use, valuing residual resources, and contribute to eco-efficiency. (DEC, NRCan)

Results:

FSDS-related work linked to this sub-activity was abandoned at the beginning of fiscal year 2011-12 following a realignment of priorities.

Goal 2 - Air Pollution

Target 2.1 - Chemicals Management

Implementation Strategy

2.3.6 Apply life-cycle thinking, sustainable materials management and environmentally sound management of hazardous wastes to promote sustainable consumption and minimize the impacts of products and wastes on the environment and human health. (EC, NRCan)

Results:

FSDS-related work linked to this sub-activity was abandoned at the beginning of fiscal year 2011-12 following a realignment of priorities.

SA1.1.2 - Forest Products Market Access and Development

Theme I - Addressing Climate Change and Air Quality

Goal 1 - Climate Change

Target 1.1 - Climate Change Mitigation

Implementation Strategy

1.1.55 Support the development and adoption of clean and renewable energy technologies in the forest sector and the use of wood as green building material in Canada and abroad. (NRCan)

Indicator 1

Percentage increase in share of Canadian wood product exports to targeted offshore markets

Target:

10% increase relative to base year of 2007*

Results:

73.9% increase in exports to China from 2010 levels ($1.45 billion).

39.9% increase in exports to Korea from 2010 levels ($202 million).

*The program that contributes to this result was renewed in Budget 2011. As such, more accurate information is available from the 2010 baseline to assess the increase in exports to targeted offshore markets.

Indicator 2

Use of wood products in non-residential construction projects

Target:

Increase in use of wood products in non-residential construction projects relative to base year of 2007*

Results:

352 non-residential construction projects used wood products, up from the 256 projects completed in 2009.

*The program that contributes to this result was renewed in Budget 2011. As such, more accurate information is available from the 2009 baseline to assess the increase in exports to targeted offshore markets.

Indicator 3

Number of value-added wood products and processes developed and/or modified

Target:

Increase in development and/or modification relative to base year of 2007*

Results:

266 technical interventions in value-added wood product manufacturing enterprises were conducted, up from the 249 projects that were completed in 2009.

Indicator 4

Percentage of targeted stakeholders who have a positive perception of Canadian forest practices and products

Target:

Majority of targeted stakeholders have positive perceptions of the environmental practices of Canada’s forest industry.

Results:

In the 2011 Harris Decima Research survey with forest product customers and stakeholders in the United States, Asia, and Europe, 66% said that Canada’s environmental practices are ‘better than average’.

Implementation Strategy

1.1.58 Negotiate international agreement to reduce emissions from deforestation and forest degradation (REDD). (NRCan)

Indicator 1

Technical support to Reduce Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation (REDD+).

Results:

Provided $5M to the Carbon Fund of the Forest Carbon Partnership Facility to help developing countries reduce GHG emissions from deforestation and degradation
Committed $20M to the Congo Basin Forest Fund to help communities secure sustainable livelihoods and reduce emissions
Continued technical collaboration with Mexico aimed at improving its capacity to quantify forest-related emissions and removals and analyze potential REDD+ strategies
Provided training in use of the Carbon Budget Model of the Canadian Forest Sector to scientists in developing countries
Participated in ongoing efforts to strengthen Latin American capacity to monitor and report on REDD+

Indicator 2

Participation in key meetings

Results:

Canada participated in all international negotiation meetings related to REDD+, as well as in meetings of the Forest Carbon Partnership Facility and the REDD+ Partnership.

SA 1.1.3 - Forest Product Innovation

Theme I - Addressing Climate Change and Air Quality

Goal 1 - Climate Change

Target 1.1 - Climate Change Mitigation

Implementation Strategy

1.1.55 Support the development and adoption of clean and renewable energy technologies in the forest sector and the use of wood as green building material in Canada and abroad. (NRCan)

1.1.55.1 Investment in Forest Industry Transformation (IFIT): Enable renewal and transformation in the forest sector by supporting advanced clean energy technologies in the forest sector. (NRCan)

Indicator 1

Trend in number of new bio-products produced by project proponents

Target:

Positive trend over the life of the program

(Date to achieve target is March 31, 2014)

Results:

Four contribution agreements were signed, resulting in a $17.7 million federal investment in innovative technologies to be deployed at the commercial scale for the first time in Canada’s forest sector.

Indicator 2

Trend in number of new or modified facilities that are implementing innovative processes

Target:

Positive trend over the life of the program

(Date to achieve target is March 31, 2014)

Results:

Four contribution agreements were signed, resulting in a $17.7 million federal investment in innovative technologies at one new, and three modified, forest product facilities.

Implementation Strategy

1.1.56 Develop multidisciplinary assessments of the risks associated with the new and emerging bio-technology in the Forest sectors and the risks they may have on the environment. (NRCan)

Indicator 1

Number of new forest products and processes produced

Target:

Increase in production of new forest products and processes relative to base year of 2007

Results:

Supported by the Forest Innovation Program, which focuses on producing new forest products and processes, five new bio-products are on track to be commercialized by 2020.

SA 1.1.5 - Forest-based Community Partnerships

Theme III - Protecting Nature

Goal 7 - Biological Resources

Target 7.3 - Sustainable Forest Management

Implementation Strategy

7.3.1 First Nations Forestry Program - support initiatives to enhance first nations’ capacity to sustainably manage reserve forests and other forests. (INAC, NRCan)

Indicator 1

Number of knowledge products and tools accessed

Target:

Upward trend in number of products and tools accessed

Results:

Our products, more than 200 produced over the lifespan of the First Nations Forestry Program (FNFP), were consistently among the most accessed from the Canadian Forest Service (CFS) bookstore. 2010-11 publications from the FNFP on subjects related to economic opportunities in forestry were accessed nearly 500 times from the bookstore in the past year, as well as being available at outreach events and CFS offices across the country.

Indicator 2

Ratio of program funds leveraged

Target:

1:1 contributions from other funding partners

Results:

Since its inception in 1996, the FNFP supported more than 2,400 forest projects in First Nations communities across Canada, directly investing approximately $59 million, and leveraging more than $202 million from communities and other partners, representing a leverage ratio of greater than 2:1 every year.

Indicator 3

Number of knowledge products and tools developed

Target:

An average of 50 knowledge products and tools developed annually

Results:

More than 200 products were developed in the course of the program, with seven published in fiscal year 2010-11. These materials were disseminated widely to stakeholders, libraries and communities, along with being made available at outreach events.

SA 1.1.6 - Energy and Mineral Exploration

Theme I - Addressing Climate Change and Air Quality

Goal 1 - Climate Change

Target 1.1 - Climate Change Mitigation

Implementation Strategy

1.1.5 Undertake and deliver scientific research and reporting in support of regulatory and other programs, including data analysis, inventory development, monitoring, modeling and assessment of the effectiveness of efforts as well as research on options, costs and benefits, and technology assessments. (EC, HC, NRCan, TC)

Indicator 1

Number of citations of NRCan reports and assessments on climate change mitigation

Target:

(Date to achieve target is 2012-13)

Results:

Progress towards achieving this target is being made. In 2011-12, NRCan released New Energy Supply information on the geothermal energy resource potential of Canada and the results of the Nova Scotia Geological Survey of Canada - Academic Scotain Slope Play Fairway Analysis. Progress is being made in other areas such as Geological Survey of Canada - Japan Oil and Gas Mining and Exploration Consortium Bulletin on the Mallik Gas Hydrate Experiment and the Carbon Capture Sequestration Atlas.

SA1.1.7 - Domestic and International Energy Policy

Theme I - Addressing Climate Change and Air Quality

Goal 1 - Climate Change

Target 1.1 - Climate Change Mitigation

Implementation Strategy

1.1.20 Develop climate change strategies aligned with the United States including working collaboratively through the Canada-U.S Clean Energy Dialogue to advance clean energy priorities. (EC, NRCan)

Indicator 1

Percentage of Action Plan projects and initiatives implemented through the Canada-U.S. Clean Energy Dialogue process

Results:

For Action Plan I of the Canada-US Clean Energy Dialogue (CED) all projects and inititaives were implemented through the CED working groups. In fiscal year 2011-12, the focus of CED was on the development of the second CED Action Plan (Action II) in collaboration with the U.S. Department of Energy and Environment Canada. Action Plan II focuses on areas of potential collaboration rather than on a discrete number of projects and was announced in June 2012.

Goal 1 - Climate Change

Target 1.1 - Climate Change Mitigation

Goal 2 – Air Pollution

Target 2.1 – Air Pollutants

Implementation Strategy

1.1.30 The Atlantic Energy Gateway initiative aims to facilitate development of the Atlantic renewable energy sector by fostering collaboration, common understanding, and communication among governments, and between governments and the private sector, to maximize and expedite the development of renewable energy sources in the region. (ACOA, NRCan)

2.1.16 ecoACTION programs reduce GHG emissions and can directly or indirectly contribute to air pollutant emission reduction. (NRCan, TC, INAC)

2.1.19 The Atlantic Energy Gateway initiative aims to facilitate development of the Atlantic renewable energy sector by fostering collaboration, common understanding, and communication among governments and the private sector, to maximize and expedite the development of renewable energy sources in the region. (ACOA, NRCan)

Indicator 1

Sector-specific advice, analysis and recommendations are available as requested by senior management

Target:

95% of requests are fulfilled

Results:

All requests were fulfilled, specifically departmental officials provided strategic and policy advice, recommendations and analysis regarding management of the Atlantic Energy Gateway. Research studies conducted under the Atlantic Energy Gateway produced foundational knowledge and insight into the opportunities for developing Atlantic Canada's clean energy resources.

Indicator 2

Senior management satisfaction with relevance and usefulness of advice, analysis and recommendations provided

Target:

Consistent satisfaction indicated (graded on Likert scale)

Fully Met = 100% satisfaction

Mostly Met = 80 - 99%

Somewhat Met = 60 - 79%

Not Met = less than 60%

Results:

This target was fully met, specifically departmental officials provided strategic and policy advice, recommendations and analysis regarding management of the Atlantic Energy Gateway. Research studies conducted under the Atlantic Energy Gateway produced foundational knowledge and insight into the opportunities for developing Atlantic Canada's clean energy resources.

Goal 1 - Climate Change

Target 1.1 - Climate Change Mitigation

Implementation Strategy

1.1.43 Work with international partners to implement commitments in the Copenhagen Accord such as mitigation targets and actions; short and long-term financing; mechanisms for technology and reducing emissions from deforestation and forest degradation; adaptation actions; and provisions for transparency and accountability of climate change actions. (EC, NRCan)

1.1.48 United Nations

1.1.48.2 Participate in strategic international climate change negotiations and engagement in the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), including leadership on key issues. (NRCan)

1.1.49 Multilateral Organizations Outside of the UNFCCC

1.1.49.1 Advance Canadian interests in a range of high-level climate change-related international for a, such as the G8, the Major Economies Forum on Energy and Climate (MEF), including the MEF initiated Clean Energy Ministerial; and the Asia-Pacific Cooperation. (NRCan)

1.1.50 Asia-Pacific Partnership: Manage Canadian Asia-Pacific Partnership-funded projects that promote the development, diffusion and deployment of clean technologies. (EC, NRCan, IC)

1.1.53 Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS): Participate in a variety of policy and technical multilateral cooperation fora including the Global Institute, the Carbon Sequestration Leadership Forum, the International Energy Agency and the MEF Clean Energy Ministerial Carbon Capture and Storage Action Group. (NRCan)

Indicator 1

Advice, recommendations and analysis in support of federal-provincial-territorial and international working groups, meetings and/or projects

Target:

Consistent satisfaction indicated (graded on Likert scale)

Fully Met = 100% satisfaction

Mostly Met = 80 - 99%

Somewhat Met = 60 - 79%

Not Met = less than 60%

Results:

This target was fully met, specifically in 2011-12 departmental officials:

1) Prepared advice and analysis to support NRCan's participation, as the Government of Canada's representative, in international fora and initiatives for collaborating, knowledge sharing, and capacity building related to Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS). These fora include the Carbon Sequestration Leadership Forum, the Carbon Capture, Use and Storage Action Group under the Clean Energy Ministerial (CEM), the Global CCS Institute, and APEC's Expert Group on Clean Fossil Energy.

2) Prepared advice and analysis for NRCan's participation in international technology negotiations under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and in the US-led CEM, which the department led for the Government of Canada. In representing Canada in the CEM, NRCan profiled Canada as a leader in clean energy and worked collaboratively with major economies to advance objectives on clean energy and technology.

3) Advice was also prepared on topics such as energy-related greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, clean energy technology, the US approach to regulating GHG emissions, Canada's approach to and provincial/territorial actions on GHG regulations, domestic air quality regulation and initiatives related to species at risk.

Indicator 2

Advice, recommendations and analysis in support of international climate change engagement

Target:

Consistent satisfaction indicated (graded on Likert scale)

Fully Met = 100% satisfaction

Mostly Met = 80 - 99%

Somewhat Met = 60 - 79%

Not Met = less than 60%

Results:

This target was fully met, specifically officials provided advice and recommendations to support NRCan's participation in key climate change and energy-related fora as the Government of Canada's representative. For example, NRCan leads for the Government on international technology negotiations under the UNFCCC. In this capacity, NRCan continued in 2011-12 to work with other countries to develop a technology mechanism, as called for in the Copenhagen Accord and agreed to in Cancun in 2010. In 2011-12, NRCan also supported the development of Canadian policies and positions on other issues, including mitigation, climate finance and reporting of climate change actions, by providing expertise and advice to ensure that energy and other natural resource interests are reflected in Canadian positions.

SA 2.1.1 - Materials for Energy

Theme I - Addressing Climate Change and Air Quality

Goal 1 - Climate Change

Target 1.1 - Climate Change Mitigation

Implementation Strategy

1.1.39 Develop improved materials and processes to achieve more energy-efficient, lower-emission vehicles. (NRCan)

Indicator 1

Number of collaborative interactions measured by the number of demonstrations in private sector facilities of technologies developed (ongoing)

Target:

Increase of 20% over the 2009 baseline of 3 demonstrations

Results:

Four (4) demonstrations in private sector facilities of NRCan technologies were conducted in the 2011-12 fiscal year.

Indicator 2

Number of publications accepted in journals and peer-reviewed conference proceedings

Target:

10% increase over the 2009 baseline of 129 journal publications and conference proceedings

Results:

51 (significant reduction in publications due to the disruption caused by the relocation of NRCan’s CanmetMATERIALS laboratory from Ottawa to Hamilton).

Indicator 3

Number of new alloys or materials or processes developed and tested with industry

Target:

Results:

Two new cast aluminum alloys were developed. These exhibit higher temperature strength through additions of titanium, vanadium and zirconium. Vehicle energy efficiency can be delivered through advances in powertrain materials.

In addition, an energy efficient heat treatment process was developed for the target alloys that balance strength with cost and productivity.

Indicator 4

Demonstration projects in private sector facilities of technologies developed

Target:

2 or more

Results:

Four demonstrations in private sector facilities of technologies developed within NRCan’s CanmetMATERIALS laboratory were conducted in the 2011-12 fiscal year.

SA 2.1.2 - Renewable Energy Deployment

Theme I - Addressing Climate Change and Air Quality

Goal 1 - Climate Change

Target 1.1 - Climate Change Mitigation

Implementation Strategy

1.1.26 Supply financial aid and develop capacity to reduce GHGs through the adoption of emission reducing technologies and practices. (NRCan)

Goal 2- Air Pollution

Target 2.1 – Air Pollutants

Implementation Strategy

2.1.16 ecoACTION programs reduce GHG emissions and can directly or indirectly contribute to air pollutant emission reduction. (NRCan, TC, INAC)

Indicator 1

Amount of clean electricity generation from low-impact renewable sources

Target:

16.9 terawatt-hours (TWh) per year of electricity generated by low-impact renewable sources (up to 5,000 megawatts installed capacity)

Results:

The projects registered under the renewable power programs are expected to have generated 15.5 TWh of renewable electricity that would have displaced 6.8 megatonnes of carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions.

Indicator 2

Number of projects reviewed under the ecoENERGY for Renewable Power program.

Target:

60 applications reviewed

Results:

350 projects were reviewed during the four-year implementation period.

Indicator 3

Number of contribution agreements signed for qualified projects under the ecoENERGY for Renewable Power program

Target:

20 projects qualified and agreements signed

Results:

The department signed contribution agreements for 104 projects.

SA 2.1.3 - Clean Energy Science and Technology

Theme I - Addressing Climate Change and Air Quality

Goal 1 - Climate Change

Target 1.1 - Climate Change Mitigation

Implementation Strategy

Indicator 1

Number of partnerships (e.g., contracts, agreements, memoranda of understanding, projects) established to research, develop and demonstrate clean energy technologies

Target:

345 partnerships established

Results:

Academia, industry and the public sector collaborate for the advancement and demonstration of clean energy technologies. NRCan established 452 partnerships, reflected in contracts, agreements, memoranda of understanding, projects, etc., for example:

A contribution agreement was signed with SaskPower in support of a pilot-scale demonstration project, called Carbon Capture Test Facility at the Shand Power plant in southeastern Saskatchewan, to reduce the cost and increase the efficiency of CCS for applications in coal-fired electricity;
A contribution agreement was signed with the Petroleum Technology Research Centre in support of the Aquistore project, which will demonstrate the safe storage of CO₂ in a deep saline formation near Estevan, Saskatchewan.
The North American Carbon Storage Atlas (NACSA), which identifies in Canada, Mexico and the United States all major emission sources of CO₂ and potential geological reservoirs where these CO₂ emissions can be stored, including estimates of the storage capacity of these reservoirs, was completed in 2011-12 and unveiled on May 1, 2012, at the 11th Annual Conference on Carbon Capture Utilization and Sequestration Conference in Pittsburgh, PA.

Indicator 2

Percentage of project proposals reviewed and assessed.

Target:

100% reviewed and assessed

Results:

NRCan led a competitive request for project proposals for funding from the ecoENERGY Innovation Initiative (ecoEII) and reviewed and assessed all project proposals. Overall 1,114 letters of interest were received and processed in a timely fashion. This resulted in 111 projects from 159 proposals being selected for research and development (R&D) by federal departments in the first year of ecoEII. For the subsequent years of the program, 139 projects were selected from 460 proposals for federal R&D, external R&D and demonstration projects.

Indicator 3

Percentage of projects monitored and reviewed

Target:

100% monitored and reviewed

Results:

NRCan monitored and reviewed all projects and made significant progress in advancing 10 carbon capture and storage (CCS) pilot-scale and small demonstration projects. For example, contribution agreements were signed with SaskPower in support of a pilot-scale demonstration project and Petroleum Technology Research Centre in support of the Aquistore project.

Goal 1 - Climate Change

Target 1.1 - Climate Change Mitigation

Implementation Strategy

1.1.26 Supply financial aid and develop capacity to reduce GHGs through the adoption of emission reducing technologies and practices. (NRCan)

1.1.27 Use the Program on Energy Research and Development (PERD) to research and develop energy technologies that will reduce GHG emissions. (NRCan)

1.1.28 Use the Clean Energy Fund for transitioning the energy sector by developing and demonstrating new technologies that will reduce GHG emissions. (NRCan)

Goal 2- Air Pollution

Target 2.1 – Air Pollutants

Implementation Strategy

1.1.37 Undertake research, development and deployment of new technologies to reduce GHGs. (NRCan)

2.1.16 ecoACTION programs reduce GHG emissions and can directly or indirectly contribute to air pollutant emission reduction. (NRCan, TC, INAC)

2.1.23 Undertake research, development and deployment of new technologies to reduce GHG and other air-pollutant emissions. (NRCan)

Indicator 1

Ratio of total government investments in clean energy research, development and demonstration versus leveraged funding from partners

Target:

1:1 ratio achieved

Results:

NRCan successfully leveraged equal investments in clean energy knowledge and technologies projects. This reflected an approximate 1:1 ratio of government versus leveraged funding from partners.

Indicator 2

Scientific knowledge and information (e.g., refereed publications and presentations, and technical and client reports) disseminated to NRCan’s clients and partners (e.g., industry, other government departments and agencies, other governments, associations, universities and non-governmental organizations)

Target:

1075 knowledge and information products produced

Results:

NRCan increased the availability of scientific and technical knowledge by producing 1175 information products, which advance the development of and or deployment of clean energy-related technology. These tools are critical to promote technology transfer and advancements of new scientific results.

Indicator 3

Number of published and/or revised standards and codes

Target:

31 standards and codes published and/or revised

Results:

NRCan facilitated the strengthening of 44 codes and standards which will enable the deployment of new clean energy technologies.

Indicator 4

Number of partnerships (e.g., contracts, agreements, memoranda of understanding, projects) established to research, develop and demonstrate clean energy technologies

Target:

345 partnerships established

Results:

Academia, industry and public sector collaborate for the advancement and demonstration of clean energy technologies. NRCan established 452 partnerships, reflected in contracts, agreements, memoranda of understanding, projects, etc., for example:

A contribution agreement was signed with SaskPower in support of a pilot-scale demonstration project, called Carbon Capture Test Facility at the Shand Power plant in southeastern Saskatchewan, to reduce the cost and increase the efficiency of CCS for applications in coal-fired electricity;
A contribution agreement was signed with the Petroleum Technology Research Centre in support of the Aquistore project, which will demonstrate the safe storage of CO₂ in a deep saline formation near Estevan, Saskatchewan; and
The North American Carbon Storage Atlas (NACSA), which identifies in Canada, Mexico and the United States all major emission sources of CO₂and potential geological reservoirs where these CO₂ emissions can be stored, including estimates of the storage capacity of these reservoirs, was completed in 2011-12 and unveiled on May 1, 2012, at the 11th Annual Conference on Carbon Capture Utilization and Sequestration in Pittsburgh, PA.

Indicator 5

Percentage of project proposals reviewed and assessed

Target:

100% reviewed and assessed

Results:

NRCan led a competitive request for project proposals for funding from the ecoENERGY Innovation Initiative (ecoEII) and reviewed and assessed all project proposals. Overall 1,114 letters of interest were received and processed in a timely fashion. This resulted in 111 projects from 159 proposals being selected for R&D by federal departments in the first year of ecoEII. For the subsequent years of the program, 139 projects were selected from 460 proposals for federal R&D, external R&D and demonstration projects.

Indicator 6

Percentage of projects monitored and reviewed

Target:

100% reviewed and assessed

Results:

SA 2.1.4 - Energy Efficiency and Alternative Transportation Fuels

Theme I - Addressing Climate Change and Air Quality

Goal 1 - Climate Change

Target 1.1 - Climate Change Mitigation

Implementation Strategy

Goal 2- Air Pollution

Target 2.1 – Air Pollutants

Implementation Strategy

2.1.2 Undertake scientific research and reporting in support of regulatory and other programs delivered, including data analysis, inventory development, monitoring, modeling and assessment of the effectiveness of efforts as well as research on options, costs and benefits, including economic and social and technology assessments. (EC, NRCan, HC,TC)

Indicator 1* (revised)

Petajoules of energy saved through NRCan programming (ecoENERGY Efficiency)

Target:

Between 4.9 and 5.8 PJ in 2011-12

Results:

The ecoENERGY Efficiency program met its 2011-12 target and achieved more than 5 petajoules of energy savings.

*NRCan revised this indicator to what it reported on in 2011-12, so that it is aligned with the Departmental Performance Report. Under sub-program 2.1.4 in 2011-12 reporting, the indicator for overall energy efficiency improvements includes only petajoules through ecoENERGY Efficiency.

Goal 1 - Climate Change

Target 1.1 - Climate Change Mitigation

Implementation Strategy

1.1.13 Enhance energy-efficiency regulations for consumers and commercial products. (NRCan)

Goal 2- Air Pollution

Target 2.1 – Air Pollutants

Implementation Strategy

2.1.11 Work on energy-efficiency regulations for consumer and commercial products. (NRCan)

Indicator 1* (revised)

Number of amendments to the Energy Efficiency Regulations ready for publication

Target:

2 amendments

(Date to achieve target is March 31, 2016)

Results:

Progress on the long-term target of 2 amendments to the Energy Efficiency Regulations is on track.
Work performed in 2011-12 towards enhancement of energy efficiency regulations includes:

4 market barrier assessments completed for products to be regulated (refrigerators, dryers, oil-fired furnaces, and mobile-home gas furnaces);
4 technology assessments undertaken;
3 stakeholder consultations held for products to be regulated.

* ecoENERGY for Equipment (2007-11) is a sunsetted program. Instead of having separate programs for different sectors (equipment, fleet, industry), all of this activity now operates under one program, ecoENERGY Efficiency (2011-16). NRCan reports only the total energy savings from the program, and not from its separate activities. Accordingly, NRCan has replaced this indicator and target with its equivalent from ecoENERGY Efficiency, which relates well to the implementation strategies for the Federal Sustainable Development Strategy.

Goal 1 - Climate Change

Target 1.1 - Climate Change Mitigation

Implementation Strategy

1.1.26 Supply financial aid and develop capacity to reduce GHGs through the adoption of emission reducing technologies and practices. (NRCan)

Goal 2- Air Pollution

Target 2.1 – Air Pollutants

Implementation Strategy

2.1.16 ecoACTION programs reduce GHG emissions and can directly or indirectly contribute to air pollutant emission reduction. (NRCan, TC, INAC)

Indicator 1* (revised)

Renewable fuel production as a percentage of on-road gasoline and diesel fuel use, on a volumetric basis

Target:

Positive trend

Results:

2.6% in 2009, an increase from 1.7% in 2008

* NRCan added the terms 'on-road' and 'volumetric basis' to the indicator to clarify its focus, and updated the term 'distillate' to 'diesel' for clarity. In addition, the positive trend relates to the years 2008 and 2009, as those are the most recent years for which data are available.

Indicator 2* (revised)

On-road alternative fuel use as a percentage of on-road transportation fuel use, on an energy basis

Target:

Positive trend

Results:

1.8% in 2009, an increase from 1.6% in 2008

* NRCan added the terms 'on-road' and 'on an energy basis' to the indicator to clarify its focus. In addition, the positive trend relates to the years 2008 and 2009, as those are the most recent years for which data are available.

Indicator 3* (revised)

Canada's alternative fuel production capacity

Target:

2 billion litres of domestic production capacity of renewable alternatives to gasoline and 500 million litres of domestic productive capacity of renewable alternatives to diesel or commensurate with funds available

(Date to achieve target is March 31, 2017)

Results:

As of March 31, 2012, 30 contribution agreements had been signed. The signed agreements provided sufficient production capacity to allow the program to almost meet the biodiesel target (494 million litres) by December 2012 but fall short on ethanol (1807 million litres).

* This indicator and target are from ecoENERGY for Biofuels (2008-17). The indicator and target have not substantially changed, but the revised wording aligns with reporting in the Departmental Performance Report.

Goal 1 - Climate Change

Target 1.1 - Climate Change Mitigation

Implementation Strategy

1.1.40 Offer information programs and decision-making tools which help Canadians purchase, drive and maintain their vehicles in a manner which reduces fuel consumption and GHG emissions. (NRCan)

Goal 2- Air Pollution

Target 2.1 – Air Pollutants

Implementation Strategy

2.1.27 Offer information programs and decision-making tools which help Canadians purchase, drive and maintain their vehicles in a manner which reduces fuel consumption and GHG emissions. (NRCan)

Indicator 1* (revised)

Number of participants trained (in the transportation sector)

Target:

Support training sessions on energy efficiency products and practices for a total of 170 650 individuals trained, including 169 000 individuals in the transportation sector

Results:

ecoENERGY Efficiency exceeded its targets for the number of individuals trained on energy efficient products and practices. In total, more than 218,300 individuals were trained. This included more than 210,000 new drivers and 4300 fleet drivers, for a total of more than 214,300 trained in the transportation sector.

* ecoENERGY for Personal Vehicles and ecoENERGY for Fleets (2007-11) are sunsetted programs. Instead of having separate programs for different sectors (equipment, fleets, industry), all of this activity now operates under one program, ecoENERGY Efficiency (2011-16). NRCan reports only the total energy savings from the program, and not from its separate activities.

Accordingly, NRCan has replaced this indicator and target with its equivalent from ecoENERGY Efficiency, which relates well to the FSDS implementation strategies.

Note that 2011-12 reporting includes total training under ecoENERGY Efficiency, of which training on transportation is one part. NRCan has reported the total and the contribution from the transportation sector here for clarity.

SA 2.1.5 - Pulp and Paper Green Transformation

Theme I - Addressing Climate Change and Air Quality

Goal 1 - Climate Change

Target 1.1 - Climate Change Mitigation

Implementation Strategy

1.1.55 Support the development and adoption of clean and renewable energy technologies in the forest sector and the use of wood as green building material in Canada and abroad. (NRCan)

1.1.55.2 Pulp and Paper Green Transformation Program: Support innovation and environmentally friendly investments in pulp and paper mills in areas such as energy efficiency and renewable energy production. The aim is for pulp and paper mills in Canada to further reduce their greenhouse gas emissions while helping to position them as leaders in the production of renewable energy from forest biomass. (NRCan)

Indicator 1

Quantity of energy consumed by participating pulp and paper companies

Target:

Reduction of energy consumed (gigajoules (GJ) per year)

(Date to achieve target is March 31, 2013)

Results:

As a whole, the projects funded by the Pulp and Paper Green Transformation Program (PPGTP) reduced their energy consumption, saving an estimated 8.5 million GJ of energy annually through improvements to mills’ energy efficiency.

PPGTP projects also reduced GHG emissions of the Canadian pulp and paper industry by more than 10% from 2009 levels by adding capacity to generate clean electricity, enabling fuel switching to carbon-neutral forest biomass, and cutting overall mill energy consumption.

Indicator 2

Quantity of renewable energy produced by participating pulp and paper companies

Target:

Increase in the production of renewable energy (megawatt hours (MWh) per year)

(Date to achieve target is March 31, 2013)

Results:

As a whole, the projects funded by PPGTP increased the generation of renewable energy by an estimated 2.7 million MWh per year (electricity and steam)

SA 2.2.1 - Green Mining Initiative

Theme I - Addressing Climate Change and Air Quality

Goal 1 - Climate Change

Target 1.1 - Climate Change Mitigation

Implementation Strategy

1.1.22 Continue to work with industry stakeholders to encourage and promote the adoption and adaptation of new technologies such as information and communications technologies, biotechnology and clean energy technology. (IC, NRCan)

Goal 2 - Air Pollution

Target 2.1 - Air Pollutants

Implementation Strategy

2.1.23 Undertake research, development and deployment of new technologies to reduce GHG and other air-pollutant emissions. (NRCan)

Indicator 1

Number of underground hybrid equipment used in Canada

Target:

(Date to achieve target is 2013-14)

Results:

The results on underground hybrid equipment will be reported on by fiscal year 2013-14

*Additional departmental sustainable development activities

SA 2.2.2 - Forest Ecosystem Science and Application

Theme I - Addressing Climate Change and Air Quality

Goal 1 - Climate Change

Target 1.1 - Climate Change Mitigation

Implementation Strategy

1.1.48 United Nations

1.1.48.4 Develop and submit a complete and compliant annual national GHG Inventory Report and Common Reporting Format tables to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) Secretariat by April 15, to meet UNFCCC and Kyoto Protocol reporting requirements. (EC, NRCan)

1.1.54 Support the development and provision of scientific knowledge, modeling, data and tools that inform forest carbon budgets. (NRCan)

Results:

Annual provision of complete forest-related greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions estimates compliant with international reporting requirements, for inclusion in the National Inventory Report and Common Reporting Format tables.
Continuing enhancement of the accuracy of forest-related carbon and GHG estimates in the National Inventory Report.

Theme I - Addressing Climate Change and Air Quality

Goal 1 - Climate Change

Target 1.1 - Climate Change Mitigation

Implementation Strategy

1.1.54 Support the development and provision of scientific knowledge, modeling, data and tools that inform forest carbon budgets. (NRCan)

Results:

Development and application of the National Forest Carbon Monitoring, Reporting and Accounting System (NFCMARS) has progressed and has included deforestation monitoring. The continued use of NFCMARS allows NRCan to provide annual estimates of forest-related carbon stock changes and GHG emissions for Canada’s annual GHG National Inventory Report.

Theme III - Protecting Nature

Goal 7 - Biological Resources

Target 7.3 - Sustainable Forest Management

Implementation Strategy

7.3.2 Generate and disseminate scientific knowledge related to forest ecosystems. (NRCan)

Indicator 1

Trend in use of scientific knowledge

Target:

Upward trend in use of scientific knowledge (baseline to be established)

(Date to achieve target is March 31, 2013)

Results:

National Forest Information (NFI) is accessible and can be queried to display map products through the Internet. Web statistics indicate that the NFI has an average of 500 new hits per month.
NRCan produced 224 peer-reviewed publications from 2009-10 to 2011-12.

Indicator 2

Number of knowledge transfer activities

Target:

Maintain current levels (baseline to be established)

(Date to achieve target is March 31, 2013)

Results:

CFS senior scientists have a strong international and national reputation in the area of carbon and climate change mitigation and remote sensing technologies ("earth observation") of forest ecosystems. They were invited to speak at numerous conferences in their area of expertise.

SA 2.2.3 - Environmental Geoscience

Theme II - Maintaining Water Quality and Availability

Goal 3 - Water Quality

Target 3.1 - Fresh Water Quality

Implementation Strategy

3.1.9 Manage/deliver Great Lakes results federally and provincially, between the Government of Canada and the Government of Ontario. (EC, NRCan)

Goal 4 - Water Availability

Target 4.1 - Water Resource Management and Use

Implementation Strategy

4.1.4 Improve the knowledge of water, its nature, extent, availability, sector use and best management practices such as Integrated Watershed Management to Canadians (EC, NRCan)

4.1.5 Provide web- and print-based information on the science and knowledge of water to Canadians in a comprehensive and timely manner to enable responsible decision. (EC, NRCan)

4.1.10 Complete 15 assessments for Canada’s 30 key regional aquifers and produce a national groundwater inventory to help Canadians better understand and manage underground water resources. (NRCan)

Indicator 1

Number of communities using the national groundwater inventory information in groundwater management and related decision-making

Target:

Results:

Several organizations have used this inventory, including the South Nation Conservation Authority and the Central Oakangan District for decision-making.

Indicator 2

Canada’s national groundwater inventory is populated with the most recent aquifer assessment data

Target:

100% of completed aquifer assessment data are available through the inventory within 12 months of completion

Results:

The Groundwater Information Network (GIN) is populated with the most recent aquifer assessment data, informs decision makers, and is used for the development of national water strategies. The GIN framework can host multi-jurisdictional networks for monitoring data such as water levels, rates and quality. Results from the cross-border experiment with the US Geological Survey led to changes in several international standards for geospatial data.

Indicator 3

Number of assessments completed.

Target:

(Date to achieve target is 2012-13)

Results:

12 of 30 key aquifers in Canada have been mapped and assessed. Work on mapping another 7 aquifers is progressing but the completion of these assessments is now scheduled for 2014.

Goal 4 - Water Availability

Target 4.1 - Water Resource Management and Use

Implementation Strategy

4.1.9 Continue the development and implementation of Water Availability Indicators. (HC, EC, NRCan)

Indicator 1

Percentage of feasibility studies for federally regulated major development projects using NRCan geoscience

Target:

90%

Results:

NRCan continues to ensure that it meets its legislated and policy obligations with respect to environmental assessments (EAs) as required under the Canadian Environmental Assessment Act and other legislation. NRCan expertise for EAs was requested by various federal organizations, including Transport Canada, Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Canada, and Fisheries and Oceans Canada, to name a few. In addition, NRCan expertise and advice were provided to the Nunavut and Mackenzie Valley impact review boards.

Indicator 2

Number of citations of NRCan geoscience in public regulations or policy

Target:

Results:

The target was exceeded. Examples of environmental assessments where geoscience expertise supported federal decisions are Prairie Creek Mine and Sydport. In the former case, this proposed new mine is now surrounded by the newly expanded Nahanni National Park. In the latter case, coastal geoscience experts have been involved in the review of the Sydney harbour (Sydport) project at the request of Fisheries and Oceans Canada.

Theme III - Protecting Nature

Goal 6 - Ecosystem Habitat Conservation and Protection

Target 6.2 - Terrestrial Ecosystem and Habitat

Target 6.3 - Marine Ecosystems

Target 6.4 - Managing Threats to Ecosystems

Implementation Strategy

6.1.13 Establish one new national park by March 2013; complete feasibility assessments of five other potential national parks and one proposed expansion. (PC, NRCan)

Indicator 1

Percentage of feasibility studies for federally regulated major development projects using NRCan geoscience.

Target:

90%

Results:

Indicator 2

Assessments, including Environmental Assessments (EA) are produced and readily available to governments and industry

Target:

100% of assessments delivered within timeline

Results:

98% of requested EA reviews were delivered on schedule, with a total of 70 completed EA project reviews.

Indicator 3

Mineral and energy resource assessments (MERAs) are completed on time

Target:

100% completed within the timeline specified by the individual request

Results:

Six of the seven MERA assessments are in the process of being completed.

Goal 6 - Ecosystem Habitat Conservation and Protection

Target 6.2 - Terrestrial Ecosystem and Habitat

Target 6.3 - Marine Ecosystems

Target 6.4 - Managing Threats to Ecosystems

Implementation Strategy

6.3.1 Develop a federal-provincial-territorial network of Marine-Protected Areas. (DFO, NRCan)

6.3.5 Provide advice to decision-makers on potential environmental impacts and ecological risks with specific, high-priority ocean activity. (DFO, EC, NRCan)

6.3.8 Complete feasibility assessments for two potential national marine conservation areas. (PC, NRCan)

Indicator 1

Percentage of feasibility studies of federally regulated major development projects using NRCan geoscience.

Target:

90%

Results:

Indicator 2

Assessments, including environmental assessments (EAs), are produced and readily available to governments and industry

Target:

100% of assessments delivered within timeline

Results:

98% of requested EA reviews were delivered on schedule, with a total of 70 completed EA project reviews.

SA 2.2.4 - Radioactive Waste Management

Theme II - Maintaining Water Quality and Availability

Goal 3 - Water Quality

Target 3.1 - Fresh Water Quality

Implementation Strategy

3.1.5 Advance clean-up of historic radioactive wastes in the Port Hope area, which has been identified as an Area of Concern by the International Joint Commission. (NRCan)

Indicator 1

Achievement of Legal Agreement obligations

Target:

Achievement of all obligations; Initiation of Phase 3 of clean-up

(Date to achieve target is 2021)

Results:

Since Project initiation, all required obligations have been met. The launch of the Implementation Phase will involve additional obligations, which will be addressed.

Indicator 2

Compliance with applicable Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission institutional controls/licences

Target:

Full compliance and receipt of necessary Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission licences in fiscal year 2011-12

(Date to achieve target is 2021)

Results:

Ownership of the Port Granby Waste Management Facility (WMF) was transferred to NRCan at the end of fiscal year 2011-12 and the facility is being operated by Atomic Energy of Canada Limited in compliance with the CNSC licence. The Port Hope WMF has been operated by AECL under CNSC licence since April 2010.

Indicator 3

Progress on site cleanups and implementation of a long-term management approach

Target:

Effective institutional control of identified waste

Results:

In January 2012, the Government of Canada announced the approval of $1.28 billion in funding for the Implementation Phase for the Port Hope Area Initiative (PHAI). The Implementation Phase for the PHAI will be carried out as two projects: the Port Hope Project, addressing wastes in Port Hope, and the Port Granby Project, addressing wastes in southeast Clarington. Both projects include the construction of a new long-term waste management facility.

Indicator 4

Licences issued (will not apply after 2012-13)

Target:

Receipt of Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission licences as required

Results:

The Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) provided Atomic Energy of Canada Limited a Waste Nuclear Substance Licence (WNSL) for the Port Granby Project for a period of 10 years. This licence permits the operation of the existing Port Granby WMF and authority to undertake Phase 2 activities, including the construction of the new long-term waste management facility. The Port Hope Project licensing deliverables are under preparation and will be submitted to the CNSC once complete. A follow-up hearing before the CNSC for removal of conditions on a WNSL for the Port Hope Project is expected to take place in October 2012.

SA 3.1.3 - Climate Change Geoscience and Adaptation

Theme I - Addressing Climate Change and Air Quality

Goal 1 - Climate Change

Target 1.1 - Climate Change Mitigation

Implementation Strategy

1.1.5 Undertake and deliver scientific research and reporting in support of regulatory and other programs, including data analysis, inventory development, monitoring, modeling and assessment of the effectiveness of efforts, as well as research on options, costs and benefits, and technology assessments. (EC, HC, NRCan, TC)

1.1.31 Work with Aboriginal and northern communities, organizations and governments on climate change issues through the development of sustainable energy initiatives, and support them in managing vulnerabilities and opportunities created by a changing climate. (INAC, NRCan)

Indicator 1

Number of NRCan citations in plans used by public or private sector professionals (e.g., urban planners and engineers)

Target:

20% annual increase from the baseline in 2010-11

Results:

Seven community climate change adaptation plans have been developed in Nunavut, exceeding the original target of four. Also a three-way partnership among the Government of Nunavut, the Nunavut Research Institute and NRCan led to formal training and technology transfer of tools and methods developed by NRCan. In addition, the results of the permafrost and climate change research have made important contributions to the development of the Canadian Standards Association Guideline for climate change adaptation for infrastructure in permafrost.

Indicator 2

Number of reports released on climate change adaptation measures specific to the North

Target:

(Date to achieve target is 2012-13)

Results:

3 projects were implemented in 2011 to produce geoscience knowledge and information in the North to be used by governments (e.g., Northwest Territories, Nunavut) and stakeholders (e.g., highway and airport managers) to help develop adaptation measures to climate change.

Indicator 3

Number of regions whose practitioners receive training

Target:

100% of annual plan

Results:

Through 6 Regional Adaptation Collaboratives (RACs) an on-line tool was developed as a compendium of water and adaptation information; it will help decision-makers access the latest information on all aspects of water resource management in a changing climate.

Indicator 4

Number of issues discussed

Target:

15 total for all regions

Results:

Through 6 Regional Adaptation Collaboratives (RACs), 27 workshops and conference sessions were held, bringing together decision makers from all levels of government and the private sector to share knowledge and expertise for adaptation decision-making on 15 issues (e.g., water management, community planning, infrastructure, forest management, and mining).

Goal 1 - Climate Change

Target 1.1 - Climate Change Mitigation

Implementation Strategy

1.1.43 Work with international partners to implement commitments in the Copenhagen Accord such as mitigation targets and actions; short- and long-term financing; mechanisms for technology and reducing emissions from deforestation and forest degradation; adaptation actions; and provisions for transparency and accountability of climate change actions. (EC, NRCan)

Indicator 1

Number of NRCan citations in plans used by public or private sector professionals (e.g., urban planners and engineers).

Target:

20% annual increase from the baseline in 2010-11

Results:

Seven community climate change adaptation plans have been developed in Nunavut. Also a three-way partnership among the Government of Nunavut, the Nunavut Research Institute and NRCan led to formal training and technology transfer of tools and methods developed by NRCan. In addition, the results of the permafrost and climate change research have made important contributions to the development of the Canadian Standards Association Guideline for climate change adaptation for infrastructure in permafrost.

Indicator 2

Number of reports released on climate change adaptation measures specific to the North.

Target:

(Date to achieve target is 2012-13)

Results:

SA 3.2.1 - Essential Geographic Information and Support

Theme I - Addressing Climate Change and Air Quality

Goal 1 - Climate Change

Target 1.1 - Climate Change Mitigation

Implementation Strategy

1.1.5 Undertake and deliver scientific research and reporting in support of regulatory and other programs, including data analysis, inventory development, monitoring, modeling and assessment of the effectiveness of efforts as well as research on options, costs and benefits, and technology assessments. (EC, HC, NRCan, TC)

Indicator 1

Value-added applications supporting public and private sector activities on issues of governance and economic development of natural resources

Target:

75% of clients requesting information use the data in their applications

Results:

The Remote Sensing Sciences value-added applications are being used both within NRCan and by other federal organizations (e.g., Environment Canada). Applications include characterization of permafrost and ecosystem stability, which provides critical information for land management in the North, and derived information on tree-line zone, lake ice, vegetation productivity and snow cover, which supported Environment Canada’s report Canadian Biodiversity: Ecosystem Status and Trends 2010. This publication contributes to Canada’s commitment to the Convention on Biological Diversity. Moreover, new land cover monitoring products from Remote Sensing Sciences are being used by other NRCan programs as well as other government departments and academia.

Indicator 2

Number of data sets updated

Target:

100% of annual production target

Results:

612 topographic maps at the 1:50,000 scale covering parts of Nunavut and the Northwest Territories were produced, exceeding the original target of 500 maps.

Indicator 3

Percentage of satellite images in near real-time and archived products available within planned targets

Target:

95%

Results:

Through its Booth Street Archives, NRCan has provided uninterrupted and seamless data archiving and access services for an unprocessed satellite data received by the NRC receiving stations. The archive has maintained availability at 99.9%

Indicator 4

Number of tools, methodologies and standards developed and disseminated

Target:

Results:

The GeoConnections Program completed return-on-investment case studies for five web-based geospatial systems. The objective was to provide insight into the financial and non-financial benefits of investing in geospatial information. GeoConnections also increased awareness of geospatial data policy issues and best practices through delivery of a public webinar, a workshop as well as other fora. A report was produced analyzing intellectual property of geospatial data within the context of open data, volunteered geographic information, copyright and licensing. Another report was produced analyzing the policy framework and practices related to geospatial data archiving and preservation. An updated definition for the Canadian Geospatial Data Infrastructure was produced.

Theme III - Protecting Nature

Goal 6 - Ecosystem Habitat Conservation and Protection

Target 6.2 - Terrestrial Ecosystem and Habitat

Implementation Strategy

6.1.13 Establish one new national park by March 2013; complete feasibility assessments of five other potential national parks and one proposed expansion. (PC, NRCan)

Indicator 1

Public planning documents (urban development, land claims settlements, recreation use, etc.) contain geographic and/or geoscience information developed by the program

Target:

75% of clients requesting information use the data in their documentation

Results:

Preliminary results have shown that approximately 75% of clients requesting NRCan information are using it in their decision-making process. This includes remotely sensed data used by Environment Canada in ice flow monitoring as well as federal and provincial regulators in the monitoring of oil sands development. Topographic information, such as digital evaluation models, is used by communication companies to determine locations of cell towers. In addition, digital topographic information is used in many business and recreational applications including real estate, and hunting and fishing. Cadastral surveys managed by NRCan are a key in determining boundary settlements as per land claim agreements with First Nations.

Indicator 2

Percentage increase in number of downloads of satellite imagery

Target:

15% increase in downloads of satellite imagery from the baseline in 2010-11

Results:

A 42% increase in downloading of satellite imagery was achieved compared to the 2010-11 baseline.

Indicator 3

Percentage increase in number of data requests for geodetic reference points

Target:

10% annual increase in number of downloads of geodetic reference points from the baseline in 2008-09*, namely 7,751

Results:

A 23% increase in downloading of geodetic data was achieved compared to the 2010-11 baseline.

*The program that contributes to this result changed priorities in fiscal year 2010-11. As such, more accurate information is available from the 2010 baseline to assess the increase in downloads of geodetic reference points.

Goal 6 - Ecosystem Habitat Conservation and Protection

Target 6.2 - Terrestrial Ecosystem and Habitat

Target 6.3 - Marine Ecosystems

Target 6.4 - Managing Threats to Ecosystems

Implementation Strategy

6.4.1 Fulfill federal responsibilities related to prevention, detection, rapid response and management of invasive alien species. Key activities are related to governance, including international cooperation on legislation and regulations, science and technology, risk analysis, information management and sharing, performance promotion, management and mitigation. (EC, NRCan)

Indicator 1

Public planning documents (urban development, land claims settlements, recreation use, etc.) contain geographic and/or geoscience information developed by the program.

Target:

75% of clients requesting information use the data in their documentation

Results:

Indicator 2

Percentage increase in number of downloads of satellite imagery.

Target:

15% increase in downloads of satellite imagery from the baseline in 2010-11

Results:

A 42% increase in downloading of satellite imagery was achieved compared to the 2010-11 baseline.

Additional Departmental Sustainable Development Activities

SA 2.2.1 - Green Mining Initiative

Context

Sustainable development is the cornerstone of NRCan’s mandate, and consequently, the department designs its initiatives to achieve its vision to improve the quality of life of Canadians by creating a sustainable resource advantage. Many of the department’s activities and initiatives clearly contribute directly to the themes, goals and targets of the Federal Sustainable Development Strategy (FSDS). However, not all of the departmental activities could be captured within the framework of targets articulated by the FSDS. The list of initiatives contributing to sustainable development but not captured under the FSDS is too extensive to describe in this section. Therefore, NRCan has chosen to highlight only one such initiative.

While the NRCan Program Activity Architecture Sub Activity 2.2.2 - Green Mining Initiative (GMI) has been mapped to two FSDS Implementation Strategies (1.1.22 and 2.1.23) the work under these implementation strategies focuses on the hybrid scoop tram, which is only a small component that was recently brought under the umbrella of GMI. NRCan would like to take this opportunity to elaborate on the details of the whole Initiative, as it contributes to the economic and environmental pillars of sustainable development, and indirectly supports the social pillar.

Description - Green Mining Initiative

Recognizing the need for innovative technological solutions to advance sustainable mining, GMI was launched in 2009 as a proactive effort to improve the environmental performance of Canada’s mining sector. GMI research aims to find alternative means for waste disposal, reduced water use, and protection of air quality at all stages of the mining cycle.

The four pillars of GMI are:

Footprint reduction;
Innovation in waste management;
Mine closure and rehabilitation; and
Ecosystem risk management.

GMI develops knowledge and innovation to:

reduce the environmental burden of mining for the benefit of future generations;
promote a strong, socially responsible economic performance, which will help the mining sector support sustainable communities;
support effective policy and regulation;
design equipment aimed at stimulating Canadian innovation expertise and export; and
take advantage of clear market opportunities for technologies.

Non-Financial Performance Expectations

GMI will improve the mining sector’s environmental performance through knowledge transfer assets and green technologies. Performance indicators are:

Number of publications on research and development (mid and year-end reviews)
- Target: 20 publications (March 2012)
Number of projects completed jointly with industry and government stakeholders (mid and year-end reviews)
- Target: 14 projects completed (March 2012)
Number of green mining technologies transferred (5 year)
- Target: 1 licence and/or 1 patent (March 2012)
Contributions to sustainable development
GMI contributes to broad Government of Canada areas of environmental focus such as addressing climate change and air quality, maintaining water quality and protecting nature. GMI takes a full life-cycle approach to greening mining operations, from design to closure of a mine site. While mining minerals and metals economically, the long-term vision is to leave behind only clean water, rehabilitated landscapes and healthy ecosystems.

Footprint reduction includes finding ways to minimize the creation of environmentally hazardous and costly mining waste. NRCan is experimenting with explosives-free rock-breaking technologies, since traditional technologies that use explosives cause unnecessary rock breakage of waste material. Using electricity to heat the vein containing valuable minerals creates micro-stress, making small cracks in the rock, so the ore breaks off in small flakes. This is a promising method for reducing the amount of material that needs to be hauled to the surface, treated and disposed of in the environment. Energy is saved both in handling less rock from the mine and in treating fewer tailings at the end of the mine’s economic life-span.

Since it is not possible to completely eliminate mine waste, GMI research also focuses on better managing and disposing of mine waste. This involves preventing and treating acid-related drainage, minimizing and reprocessing waste, and developing alternative waste disposal technologies. NRCan is also advancing zero-discharge processes by “re-mining” existing waste materials to recover valuable metals and minerals. One project developed a process to recover approximately 80% of the zinc from water treatment sludge, which is the precipitated 'mud' where contaminants settle.

To understand the ecological impact of mine waste, GMI is examining metal toxicology, metals in soils, and the biological impacts of submerged tailings. While there is a good understanding of the actual chemistry of waste, less is known about the impacts of waste on ecology, flora and fauna.

GMI also builds on the National Orphaned and Abandoned Mines Initiative to ensure that they do not leave an ecological footprint. GMI is exploring technologies for mine rehabilitation, habitat restoration, ecological reclamation, and climate change adaptation by the mining industry.

Finally, through Green Mines - Green Energy, a multi-stakeholder initiative launched in 2007, NRCan examined the question of how to handle mine tailings—which become acidic when exposed to oxygen and water—and prevent vegetation from growing. Researchers found that applying organic waste from communities and pulp and paper mills to former tailings sites provided a viable soil on which biofuel crops like canola, corn and soy could be grown.

Clean Air Agenda

The Federal Sustainable Development Strategy, as a legislated and permanent framework for reporting on federal initiatives supporting sustainable development, is providing the vehicle for reporting on the progress of the Clean Air Agenda (CAA). The CAA represents collaborative efforts within the federal government and with other jurisdictions to realize health, economic and environmental benefits for Canadians.

Since 2007, through the CAA, the Government of Canada has been making tangible improvements in Canada’s environment in addressing the challenges of climate change and air pollution. With the renewal of CAA funding in Budget 2011, these initiatives are organized to respond to key Canadian concerns about
climate change and air quality.

Natural Resources Canada plays a key role in delivering on the Government’s Clean Air Agenda, specifically through:

Clean Energy programs seek to improve environmental performance by advancing clean electricity and cleaner energy production, increasing the use of alternative fuels, and improving end-use energy efficiencies;
Adaptation activities that help Canadians adapt to the challenges of climate change; and
International actions that support the Government of Canada’s broad efforts to reduce GHG emissions and address climate change by participating in international partnerships and negotiations and by ensuring international obligations are met.

Greening Government Operations

Details about NRCan’s Greening Government Operations (GGO) are summarized in a supplementary table of the 2011-12 Departmental Performance Report.

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Date modified:: 2013-12-11