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2009-10
Report on Plans and Priorities

Environment Canada

The original version was signed by
The Honourable Jim Prentice
Minister of the Environment

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Table of Contents

Minister’s Message

SECTION I – OVERVIEW

SECTION II – ANALYSIS OF PROGRAM ACTIVITIES BY STRATEGIC OUTCOME

SECTION III – SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION

Minister's Message

As Minister of the Environment, I am pleased to present the 2009-20010 Report on Plans and Priorities for Environment Canada.

The coming year holds within it great opportunity, both for our continued pursuit of good environmental stewardship and in our efforts to adapt our plans to the circumstances of our time.

The economy is a key issue in Canada and abroad, and as is the case elsewhere, it is influencing how we proceed with the protection of the rich natural resources that give form and character to our land and the landscapes of the world.

The Government of Canada understands that Canada’s economic prosperity cannot be sustained without a healthy environment, just as environmental progress cannot be achieved without a healthy economy. Like other countries around the world, Canada must be prepared to move forward on commitments to environmental action within the current economic context.

Guided by a balanced commitment to long-term environmental health and economic stability, our Government intends to move through the 2009-2010 period by making prudent choices that still put a premium on sound environmental policy. We are already working to deliver on some important commitments to preserve Canada’s environment such as pursuing clean and abundant water and healthy lakes and rivers, as well as protecting species at risk, our native biodiversity, and other Canadian wildlife habitats.

In addition, our Government continues to tackle the pre-eminent environmental issue of our time – climate change – with plans and investments that will translate into a real step forward in reducing domestic, continental, and global greenhouse gas emissions. Our efforts include:

• A commitment to reduce Canada’s total greenhouse gas emissions by 20 percent by 2020.
• Investments in clean technologies, including next generation bio-fuels and carbon capture and storage.
• Continued collaboration with provinces, territories and our partners to develop and implement a North America-wide cap-and-trade system for greenhouse gases.
• Active and constructive participation in United Nations negotiations to develop a new international climate change agreement.

As always, the objectives outlined in this report support our Government’s intentions to work with our partners, at home and internationally, for the continued protection of Canada’s valued and diverse environmental legacy, and for the greater advancement of world-wide environmental protection efforts.

In the interest of better understanding our direction, I encourage parliamentarians and Canadians to read the 2009-2010 Report on Plans and Priorities for Environment Canada.

The Honourable Jim Prentice, P.C., M.P.
Minister of the Environment

Section I – Departmental Overview

Raison d’être

Under the Department of the Environment Act, the powers, duties, and functions of the Minister of the Environment extend to and include matters relating to:

• the preservation and enhancement of the quality of the natural environment, including water, air and soil quality;
• renewable resources, including migratory birds and other non-domestic flora and fauna;
• water;
• meteorology;
• the enforcement of any rules or regulations made by the International Joint Commission relating to boundary waters; and
• the coordination of the policies and programs of the Government of Canada respecting the preservation and enhancement of the quality of the natural environment.

Other Responsibilities

Beyond the Department of the Environment Act, the Minister of the Environment is the direct lead for 17 other Acts, including the Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999 (CEPA 1999) and several important pieces of legislation relating to the protection of biodiversity and water, including the Species at Risk Act (SARA). Most recently, the passage of Acts pertaining to implementation of the Kyoto Protocol (Kyoto Protocol Implementation Act) and mandating the development of a new Federal Sustainable Development Strategy have created new planning and reporting responsibilities which will further define the Department’s activities. The Department also has an increasingly demanding role under the Canadian Environmental Assessment Act primarily as a department that provides information and analysis to others (a "federal authority") but also as a department with decision-making responsibilities (a "federal responsibility").

Outside the mandate of this suite of environmental legislation, Environment Canada plays a critical role in the successful execution of roles and responsibilities of many other ministers, such as the Ministers of Health, Fisheries and Oceans, Natural Resources, Indian Affairs and Northern Development and others. This includes a number of Acts, such as the Hazardous Products Act, Fisheries Act, Arctic Waters Pollution Prevention Act, Greenhouse Gas Technology Investment Fund Act, and the First Nations Land Management Act which detail additional fields in which the Minister of the Environment has secondary or shared responsibility.

Environment Canada also plays a key role in addressing environmental challenges domestically and internationally by working with other governments on environmental issues.

Measuring our Performance

Through its 2007-2008 Departmental Performance Report, Environment Canada committed to the development of an effective Performance Measurement Framework (PMF). An important step has been the advancement of quantifiable performance indicators in the 2009-2010 Report on Plans and Priorities for Strategic Outcomes and Program Activities. These indicators, developed in consultation with program managers across the Department, provide for more accurate and transparent reporting. A key criterion for the selection of indicators for 2009-2010 was the availability of data to support reporting.

The PMF represents an improvement in how Strategic Outcomes are measured – we are moving from what is largely a roll-up of indicators, and related results, at the Program Activity level as a means of explaining progress at the Strategic Outcome level, to specific measureable indicators at both the Strategic Outcome and Program Activity levels, in order to tell a more robust and transparent performance story.

Environment Canada is midway through a two-year process of revising its PMF, and we recognize that further work is still required, including the development of indicators at the sub-activity level. When complete in 2010-2011, the revised PMF will support greater use of objective, evidence-based performance reporting for Parliament and the public on achieved results and outcomes; greater transparency with central agencies concerning planned and actual results of departmental programs; and improved program management within the department.

The performance indicators contained in Section 2 of this report reflect the following improvements made this year:

• More consistent definitions of expected results, indicators and targets across the range of the Department’s program activities;
• Improved attribution of the Department’s activities at the Strategic Outcome level through the addition of specific measures and targets;
• Defined methods for data collection and indicator calculation for the performance indicators. Data collection systems are in place to support reporting in the corresponding 2009-2010 Departmental Performance Report.

For the 2008-2009 Departmental Performance Report, we will report against targets and indicators contained in the RPP of that year.

Environment Canada is undertaking action that supports the Government’s Budget 2009 commitment to improve its annual reporting on key environmental indicators such as clean air, clean water, and greenhouse gas emissions. Environment Canada’s approach to performance measurement is one of continuous improvement. Our targets and indicators are not static and will continue to evolve as we learn from our performance, adapt to new science and technology, and respond to changes in policy and government-wide direction. Significant progress against many of the environmental challenges faced by Canadians will take years and in some cases decades to achieve. We recognize that our performance reporting must not only demonstrate progress against long-term targets but indicate incremental results as well. It is within this context that Environment Canada is working to advance performance measurement and enhance accountability.

Strategic Outcomes and Program Activity Architecture (PAA)

The 2009-2010 PAA is currently under review and will change for fiscal year 2010-2011. The Department’s current Strategic Outcomes and Program Activity Architecture (PAA), presented below, shows how resources are managed and allocated in the Department and how activities are organized to achieve results.

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2008-2009 to 2009-2010 Program Activity Architecture (PAA) Crosswalk

The table below provides a crosswalk between Environment Canada’s 2008–2009 and 2009–2010 ProgramActivity Architectures.

Click on image to enlarge

Totals may differ between and within tables due to the rounding of figures.

Environment Canada requires amendments to its previously approved PAA to reflect the Order in Council transferring responsibility for the revitalization of the Toronto Waterfront and Harbourfront Corporation to the Department of Finance and to reflect the reporting of Internal Services as a discrete Program Activity.

Environment Canada is currently transitioning its Internal Services resources over a two-year period; therefore, the Internal Services figures above should be considered preliminary. Further analysis is underwayto realign program specificresources embedded within the Internal Services Program Activity.

Planning Summary

The following table provides a summary of the planned financial resources for the next three years.

Financial Resources ($ millions*)

2009-2010	2010-2011	2011-2012
1,080.6	1,059.5	891.1

* Net of revenue; includes Services received without charge. [Back]

The following table provides a summary of the planned human resources (FTEs) for the next three years.

Human Resources (Full-Time Equivalent–FTE)

2009-2010	2010-2011	2011-2012
6,678	6,610	5,939

Full Time Equivalents (FTEs) are extracted from the Department’s Salary Management System for the 2008-2009 forecast spending. For the planned spending years, a salary average was used to calculate FTEs based on the Salary reference level for the 2009-2010, 2010-2011, and 2011-2012 fiscal years. The significant decrease in FTEs in 2011-2012 is due to the sunsetting of two main initiatives, the Chemicals Management Plan and the Clean Air Regulatory Agenda. Based on historical trends, the Department gains significant additional resources through Supplementary Estimates and, consequently, anticipates a stable workforce over the next three years.

Strategic Outcome 1: Canada’s natural capital is restored, conserved and enhanced.

Program Activity2	Forecast Spending 2008-2009 ($ millions)	Planned Spending ($ millions)			Alignment to Government of Canada Outcomes
		2009-2010	2010-2011	2011-2012
Biodiversity and Wildlife Program	95.5	85.5	84.0	83.3	Clean and Healthy Environment
Water Program	83.6	98.3	92.1	84.3
Ecosystems Initiatives Program	41.9	40.6	40.0	39.8
Sub-total	221.0	224.4	216.1	207.4
Add: Services received without charge	18.5	18.5	18.6	20.4
Less: Respendable Revenue	(4.1)	(4.9)	(4.6)	(4.4)
Total for Strategic Outcome 1	235.3	238.0	230.1	223.4

Planned Human Resources (Full-Time Equivalent–FTE) for Strategic Outcome 1

2009-2010	2010-2011	2011-2012
1,212	1,192	1,175

Totals may differ within and between tables due to the rounding of figures.

Strategic Outcome 2: Weather and environmental predictions and services reduce risks and contribute to the well-being of Canadians.

Program Activity3	Forecast Spending 2008-2009 ($ millions)	Planned Spending ($ millions)			Alignment to Government of Canada Outcomes
		2009-2010	2010-2011	2011-2012
Environmental Science and Monitoring Program	113.9	106.5	106.0	103.0	Clean and Healthy Environment
Weather and Environmental Prediction Program	129.8	131.2	127.2	117.3
Sub-total	243.7	237.8	233.2	220.4
Add: Services received without charge	16.7	19.4	19.4	21.3
Less: Respendable Revenue	(57.8)	(60.9)	(60.0)	(59.2)
Total for Strategic Outcome 2	202.6	196.2	192.7	182.4

Planned Human Resources (Full-Time Equivalent–FTE) for Strategic Outcome 2

2009-2010	2010-2011	2011-2012
1,793	1,767	1,689

Totals may differ within and between tables due to the rounding of figures.

Strategic Outcome 3: Canadians and their environment are protected from the effects of pollution and waste.

Program Activity4	Forecast Spending 2008-2009 ($ millions)	Planned Spending ($ millions)			Alignment to Government of Canada Outcomes
		2009-2010	2010-2011	2011-2012
Chemicals Management Program	122.6	131.3	114.9	85.4	Clean and Healthy Environment
Legislation and Information Program	48.7	47.9	62.3	48.2
Clean Air Program	123.3	138.6	131.2	39.6
Sub-total	294.6	317.8	308.4	173.3
Add: Services received without charge	20.8	26.4	26.5	17.0
Less: Respendable Revenue	(4.8)	(4.6)	(4.6)	(4.0)
Total for Strategic Outcome 3	310.6	339.7	330.4	186.4

Planned Human Resources (Full-Time Equivalent–FTE) for Strategic Outcome 3

2009-2010	2010-2011	2011-2012
1,735	1,719	1,224

Totals may differ within and between tables due to the rounding of figures.

Strategic Outcome/Program Activity : Internal Services

Program Activity	Forecast Spending 2008-2009 ($ millions)	Planned Spending ($ millions)			Alignment to Government of Canada Outcomes
		2009-2010	2010-2011	2011-2012
Internal Services	281.5	283.7	283.1	273.2	Clean and Healthy Environment
Sub-total	281.5	283.7	283.1	273.2
Add: Services received without charge	29.4	23.8	23.9	26.4
Less: Respendable Revenue	(1.3)	(0.8)	(0.7)	(0.7)
Total for Internal Services	309.6	306.7	306.3	298.9

Planned Human Resources (Full-Time Equivalent–FTE) for Internal Services

2009-2010	2010-2011	2011-2012
1,938	1,932	1,852

Totals may differ within and between tables due to the rounding of figures.

Starting in 2009-2010, Environment Canada has modified its Program Activity Architecture (PAA) in accordance with Treasury Board requirements. Specifically, Internal Services have been redefined according to government-wide standards and categories and are now, for the first time, presented as a distinct Program Activity. This better reflects the value of Internal Services resources of the Department. The forecast spending for 2008-2009 has been adjusted to this new PAA structure to facilitate the analysis and comparability of the year over year information.

Extensive consultation with managers is underway to identify program specific resources currently included under Internal Services that could, in the future, result in further re-allocation to specific Program Activities. This exercise is expected to be completed in time for the 2010-2011 Annual Reference Level Update (ARLU).

Contribution of Priorities to Strategic Outcomes

Operational Priorities	Type	Links to Strategic Outcome(s)	Description
Reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions domestically and through international agreements.	Ongoing	S.O. 3 – Canadians and their environment are protected from the effects of pollution and waste.	Why this is a priority Science clearly indicates that unconstrained build up of man-made greenhouse gases in the atmosphere will have catastrophic consequences. Canada has committed to meaningful contribution to global action; the Government has set out a national target of a 20 percent reduction in GHG emissions by 2020. Plans for meeting the priority Develop approaches to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in the context of a North American cap-and-trade system (details p. 44). Proactive engagement in international negotiations to achieve a robust and effective global greenhouse gas reduction agreement for the post-2012 period (details p. 44).
Protecting Canadians from air pollution and toxic substances.	Ongoing	S.O. 3 – Canadians and their environment are protected from the effects of pollution and waste.	Why this is a priority Protecting Canadians and the environment from the impacts of pollution and waste improves health and the quality of life. Plans for meeting the priority Continue implementation of the Chemicals Management Plan5 (details p. 38). Advance work on a regulatory framework for air pollutant emissions (details p. 42).
Strengthening the meteorological and environmental services to Canadians.	Ongoing	S.O. 2 - Weather and environmental predictions reduce risks and contribute to the well-being of Canadians.	Why this is a priority In most aspects of their personal, community, and economic lives, Canadians expect and need information about the weather and environmental conditions. Plans for meeting the priority Enhance delivery of client-centred services (details p. 33). Improve lead times of high quality warnings, forecasts and related products and services (details p. 33).
Taking action to improve biodiversity and water quality.	Ongoing	S.O. 1 - Canada’s natural capital is restored, conserved and enhanced.	Why this is a priority By taking science-based actions to protect species, their habitats and water quality, we meet Canadians’ expectations for effective stewardship of these components of valuable ecosystems. Plans for meeting the priority Implement the Species at Risk Act6 (details p. 22). Take enforcement action that targets the most urgent risks and threats (details p. 49). Modernize the Migratory Birds Convention Act regulations (details p. 23). Develop and implement approaches to address domestic and international water policy and management issues such as Great Lakes water quality and the banning of bulk water transfers or exports from Canadian freshwater basins (details p. 24). Carry out work under the Action Plan for Clean Water to restore Lake Simcoe, Lake Winnipeg, and Areas of Concern in the Great Lakes (details p. 25).
Enhancing the enforcement program to improve environmental outcomes	Ongoing	S.O. 1, 3	Why this is a priority By expanding enforcement capacity, we protect Canada’s natural capital and protect Canadians from the harmful effects of pollution and waste through better application of environmental laws. Plans for meeting the priority: Hire, train and deploy additional enforcement officers (details pp. 36, 40, 49). Enhance laboratory capacity and technical support (details pp. 36, 40, 49).
Continuing to take leadership on horizontal environmental initiatives.	Ongoing	S.O. 1, 2, 3	Why this is a priority Interdepartmental coordination improves the value for money and effectiveness of environmental policies and actions. Plans for meeting the priority: Continue to engage partners in the following initiatives: Clean Air Agenda7 (details p. 45). Federal Contaminated Sites Action Plan8 (details p. 39). Sustainable Development Strategy9 (details p. 49).

Management Priorities	Type	Links to Strategic Outcome(s)	Description
Strengthening the support to Program Activities through enhancement of key enabling functions.	Ongoing	S.O. 1, 2, 3	Why this is a priority Program delivery is dependent upon the support of sound and effective enabling functions. Plans for meeting the priority Improve the integration of business, financial and human resources planning (details p. 48). Implement Environment Canada’s Human Resources Strategy (details p. 48). Improve the quality, timeliness and consistency of financial information and reporting and departmental expenditure management (details p. 48). Strengthen policy analysis and coordination capacity on the national and international fronts in support of Environment Canada program priorities and the Government’s overall environmental agenda (details p. 47).

The plans outlined above for meeting our priorities support the departmental Strategic Outcomes and are implemented through Program Activities. These are described by Strategic Outcomes and detailed by Program Activity in Section II of this Report.

Operating Environment and Associated Risks

The federal government has clearly signalled that preserving Canada’s environment continues to be a priority and it has reaffirmed its commitment to tackling climate change. Budget 2009 included new measures to support a cleaner and more sustainable environment including:

• $ 1 billion over five years for clean energy research development and demonstration projects, including carbon capture and storage;
• A new $1 billion Green Infrastructure Fund to support projects like public transit, sustainable energy and waste management;
• $80.5 million over the next two years for the management and assessment of federal contaminated sites, which will facilitate remediation work totalling an estimated $165 million over the next two years contributing to an improved environment as well as employment opportunities;
• Improving the Government’s annual reporting on key environmental indicators such as clean air, clean water and greenhouse gas emissions with $10 million in 2009-2010;
• $300 million over two years to the ecoENERGY Retrofit program to support an additional 200,000 energy-saving home retrofits;
• A one-time federal investment of $1.3 billion over two years to support renovations and energy retrofits for social housing, on a 50:50 cost-shared basis with provinces. This funding will help make the social housing stock in Canada more energy efficient;
• $85 million over two years for key Arctic research stations, and $2 million over two years for a feasibility study for a world-class Arctic research station;
• $250 million over two years for maintenance of federal laboratories.

These commitments reinforce those made in Budget 2008, which included measures to strengthen and ensure the effective implementation of Canada’s ecoACTION plan:¹⁰

• $66 million over two years to set up the regulatory framework for industrial air emissions;
• $250 million for a full-scale commercial demonstration of carbon capture and storage in the coal-fired electricity sector, research on the potential for carbon storage in Nova Scotia and economic and technological issues;
• $10 million over two years for scientific research and analysis on bio-fuels emissions;
• $21 million over two years to make environmental law enforcement more effective.

The Government has established a national target for reducing Canada’s total greenhouse gas emissions by 20 percent by 2020. In meeting this target, Canada’s actions going forward will remain comparable to those undertaken by the United States, Europe and other industrialized countries. The Government of Canada will work with provincial governments and other partners to develop and implement a North America-wide cap-and-trade system for greenhouse gases and an effective international protocol for the post-2012 period. To meet the challenge posed by climate change, the Government has also indicated a desire to make greater use of technologies that do not emit greenhouse gases. In particular, the Government’s goal is to have 90 percent of Canada’s electricity provided by non-emitting sources such as hydro, nuclear, clean coal or wind power by 2020.

To deliver on its priorities, the Department needs to have access to up-to-date and reliable information. Providing timely policy analysis and information remains a key component of the Department’s business. Having the right information and tools in place is essential for making timely, effective decisions that address the complex international environmental challenges Canada faces and that meet the growing expectations of Canadians and parliamentarians for effectiveness, efficiency, and accountability. In addition, as a science department, Environment Canada has a critical reliance on effective Information Management and Information Technology to maintain operations and meet our objectives.

Part of the challenge in this area is maintaining the knowledge and expertise necessary to respond to an increasingly complex policy environment. In this regard, the role that science plays in contributing to the Department’s performance cannot be overstated. To ensure access to the science it needs, the Department has developed a long-term science plan that encourages the integration of science within the Department and collaboration with outside partners. In the coming year, Environment Canada will continue to advance the strategic directions of its Science Plan. Efforts to address science planning will be guided by the federal Science and Technology Strategy¹¹ as well as by departmental priorities.

In October 2008, the Deputy Minister made some changes to the Department’s decision-making process to improve results. Four distinct Boards are responsible for the following areas: Ecosystem Sustainability, Weather and Environmental Services, Environmental Protection and Internal Services. The key functions of the Boards are priority-setting, financial challenge and allocation recommendations, while also providing a forum for horizontal issues relating to departmental policies and programs. With the renewal of the Program Activity Architecture (PAA) and the strengthening of the performance measurement framework, Environment Canada will be better positioned to meet current and future demands.

At the same time, building capacity to enable better management of the Department’s human and financial resources is a priority. Investments in human resources management systems, business process improvements and staff development are keys to providing programs with the support they need to deliver and are at the heart of our improvement efforts. These efforts are furthered by the action taken to address the areas for improvement identified in the Department’s Management Accountability Framework assessment.

Finally, the Department’s overall ability to achieve success is influenced, to some extent, by risks and factors beyond its control. These include: the most significant economic turmoil in decades; the policies, priorities and timing of action by domestic and international partners; and, competition for skilled and experienced knowledge workers needed to address the complex policy, program, scientific and regulatory issues we face. In particular, the change of administration in the United States has presented an opportunity for our two countries to purse a cooperative, bilateral approach to the environment in ways that promote a sustainable, prosperous, and secure future. It is within this context that the Department is working to meet these challenges with strategies that foster strong relationships with partners, address human resources needs and assess the relevancy of programs to ensure that the highest priorities are being managed effectively.

Expenditure Profile

For the 2009-2010 fiscal year, Environment Canada plans to spend $1.081 billion¹² to meet the expected results of its Program Activities and contribute to its Strategic Outcomes.

The following graph illustrates Environment Canada’s funding level trend from 2005-2006 to 2011-2012. For the period of 2005-2006 to 2007-2008, the total actual spending includes all budgetary and statutory expenditures as well as revenue items, including services received without charge. For the 2008-2009 fiscal year, the forecast spending represents the planned budgetary and statutory expenditures as presented in the Estimates (Main Estimates and Supplementary Estimates), including revenue items and services to be received without charge. For the period of 2009-2010 to 2011-2012, the planned spending only factors in resources projected in the Main Estimates (including revenues and estimated costs of services to be received without charge). The downward trend for 2010-2011 and 2011-2012 can be explained by the fact that other adjustments including Supplementary funding are unknown at this point and are therefore not reflected.

The graph shows a reduction in planned spending of $68M from 2008-2009 to 2009-2010. However, direct comparison of the Forecast Spending for 2008-2009 to future years is difficult given that, for example, figures for 2008-2009 include Supplementary Estimates and other adjustments, while 2009-2010 numbers and beyond are based on Main Estimates only. In fact, comparing 2008-2009 Main Estimates to Main Estimates for 2009-2010 indicates an increase of $35.2M. This increase in the Main Estimates for 2009-2010 occurred despite a decrease in planned spending of $91.7M associated with the transfer of responsibility for the Toronto Waterfront Revitalization Initiative and the Harbourfront Centre to the Minister of Finance, initiatives not considered to be core functions of Environment Canada. Factoring in this decrease, an increase of $126.9M to the Department’s core business activities has occurred. This growth is principally attributable to key initiatives like the National Vehicle Scrappage Program, Environmental Law Enforcement, Clean Air Regulatory Agenda, and National Water Strategy.

From 2005-2006 to 2006-2007, the Department’s total spending decreased by $168 million due mainly to a one time grant of $150 million made in 2005-2006 to the Federation of Canadian Municipalities for the Green Municipal Fund.

For the period from 2006-2007 to 2008-2009, Environment Canada’s funding level increased due mainly to new funding received for the transfer of responsibility for the Toronto Waterfront Revitalization Initiative and the Harbourfront Centre to the Minister of Environment Canada, the Canada Foundation for Sustainable Development Technology for delivery of the Next Generation Biofuels Fund, the Chemicals Management Plan, the National Vehicle Scrappage Program and to increase capacity of the Enforcement program and for the Clean Air Agenda.

More detailed explanations are provided under each specific Strategic Outcome in this document.

Departmental Spending Trend

Note: Planned spending numbers in the above chart represent Main Estimates funding and Services received without charge only.

Voted and Statutory Items

($ millions)

Vote # or Statutory Item (S)	Truncated Vote or Statutory Wording	2008-2009 Main Estimates	2009-2010 Main Estimates
1	Operating expenditures	665.2	736.3
5	Capital expenditures	43.5	44.5
10	Grants and contributions	165.1	129.8
(S)	Minister of the Environment - Salary and motor car allowance	0.1	0.1
(S)	Contributions to employee benefit plans	83.6	81.9
Total Department		957.5	992.6

Net increase of $71.1 million in Operating Funds

The increase is mainly made up of the following program increases totalling $102.2M:

• A $27.6M increase for the Environmental Law Enforcement Capacity Program to implement the Budget 2007.
• A $25.9M increase for the Clean Air Regulatory Agenda.
• A $14.3M increase for the National Water Strategy Freshwater Initiatives.
• A $8.2M increase of funding levels requirements to undergo activities under the Federal Contaminated Sites Action Plan (FCSAP).
• A $6.7M increase for the National Vehicle Scrappage Program.
• A $4.8M increase for the Implementation of the Adaptation Theme in Support of Canada’s Clean Air Agenda.
• A $4.2M increase to advance Canada’s international action supporting Canada’s Clean Air Agenda.
• A $2.0M increase related to Employee Benefit Plan (EBP) resources.
• A $1.9M increase for the Security and Prosperity Partnership of North America.
• A $1.5M increase in new funding for Collective Agreements.
• A $1.2M increase to advance conservation interests in the Northwest Territories.
• A $1.1M increase for the Chemicals Management Plan.
• A $1.0M increase for activities related to the Vancouver 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games.
• A $1.0M increase for the Genomics Research and Development Initiative.
• A $838K increase to continue the effective management of Métis Aboriginal Rights initiative by enabling cooperative wildlife management, liaison and consultation, and legislation and enforcement.

These increases are mainly offset by the following program decreases totalling $31.1M:

• A decrease of $8.1M due to the scheduled sunsetting of funding for the Mackenzie Gas Project in 2009-2010.
• A decrease of $5.8M for the termination of activities in support of the Action Plan 2000 on Climate Change program.
• A decrease of $5.5M for the termination of activities in support of the Environmental Indicator program.
• A decrease of $2.2M for the Great Lakes Action Plan program as a result of a realignment of funds from Operating to Grants and Contributions.
• A decrease of $2.1M of funding levels requirements to undergo activities under the International Polar Year program.
• A decrease of $1.9M to reflect a 0.7% operating budget reduction to meet Budget 2007 commitment for cost efficiency savings.
• A decrease of $1.6M due to the transfer of responsibilities of the Toronto Waterfront Revitalization Initiative to the Department of Finance.
• A decrease of $0.5M for the termination of activities in support of the Meteorological Service of Canada Transformation initiative.
• Additional smaller net decreases totalling $3.4M.

Net decrease of $35.3 million in Grants and Contributions

The decrease is mainly made up of the following program decreases totalling $90.7M:

• A decrease of $85.0M due to the transfer of responsibilities of the Toronto Waterfront Revitalization Initiative to the Department of Finance.
• A decrease of $5.0M due to the transfer of responsibilities of the Harbourfront Centre Funding Program (HFC) to the Department of Finance.
• A decrease of $415.2K for the termination of activities in support of the Environmental Indicator program.
• A decrease of $309.5K of funding levels requirements to undergo activities under the International Polar Year program from 2008-2009 to 2009-2010.

These decreases are mainly offset by the following program increases totalling $55.4M:

• A $35.1M increase for the National Vehicle Scrappage Program.
• A $11.2M increase for the National Water Strategy Freshwater
• A $5.2M increase to advance Canada’s international action supporting Canada’s Clean Air Agenda.
• A $2.2M increase for the Great Lakes Action Plan program as a result of a realignment of funds from Operating to Grants and Contributions.
• A $585.0K increase in support to the Inuit Impact and Benefit Agreement.
• A $323.7K increase for the Security and Prosperity Partnership of North America.
• Additional smaller net increases totalling $0.8M.

For additional information on Environment Canada’s Planned Spending and Full Time Equivalents, please go to: http://www.ec.gc.ca.

Section II – Analysis of Program Activities by Strategic Outcome

Strategic Outcome 1: Canada’s natural capital is restored, conserved and enhanced.

Land, fresh water and oceans and the diversity of life they support, are the basis for a healthy society and economy. They provide numerous benefits to society-including life-supporting natural processes that clean the air, purify the water, pollinate plants, absorb carbon dioxide, recycle nutrients, process wastes, prevent floods, control pests and replenish soils. The benefits provided by natural capital are often very expensive to replace or are irreplaceable.

Pressures from a growing population, invasive species, pollution, climate change and changes in land-use patterns are placing extraordinary demands on land and water that threaten the long-term viability of ecosystems and the benefits they provide.

The Department’s programs, services and initiatives to restore, conserve and enhance Canada’s natural capital involve the building of shared strategies and partnerships for conserving wildlife, ecosystems, freshwater and wetland resources.

Environment Canada’s work that contributes to this Strategic Outcome is organized into three Program Activities:

• Biodiversity and Wildlife Program
• Water Program
• Ecosystems Initiatives Program

SO 1: Canada’s natural capital is restored, conserved and enhanced

Performance Indicators	Targets
1. Proportion of migratory bird species whose population varies within acceptable bounds of the population goals.13	1. Baseline data will be reported in 2010. A target level and date will be set once this baseline data is available.

Program Activity 1.1 Biodiversity and Wildlife Program

Program Activity 1.2 Water Program

Program Activity 1.2 Ecosystems Initiatives Program

In March of 2008, the Status Report of the Commissioner of the Environment and Sustainable Development (CESD) identified key challenges and made recommendations for a number of activities included within this Strategic Outcome area. The Department accepted these recommendations and is providing targeted actions in response to issues raised in the report. For further information on findings, recommendations and Environment Canada’s responses to the CESD report, please consult the following link: http://www.oag-bvg.gc.ca/internet/English/parl_lp_e_901.html.

Program Activity 1.1: Biodiversity and Wildlife Program

Expected Results	Performance Indicators	Targets
1. Populations of wildlife, in particular migratory birds and species at risk, maintained at healthy levels.	1.1. Percentage of "at risk" species whose status has either improved or has stayed the same upon reassessment.	1.1. 85% by 202014
	1.2. Percentage of the 22 Bird Conservation Region provincial areas which have up-to-date all-bird Conservation Plans.	1.2. 100% by 2015
2. Habitats for healthy populations of wildlife, in particular migratory birds and species at risk, are protected and conserved.	2. Land secured by Environment Canada and partners, as a percentage of the total amount needed to achieve population goals for all migratory bird Habitat Joint Ventures.	2. 100% by 2010
		The current goal is 3.44 million hectares, which is established in the 2004 Update to the North American Waterfowl Management Plan. This goal will be reviewed in 2010.

Human Resources (FTEs) and Planned Spending ($ millions)
2009-2010		2010-2011		2011-2012
FTEs	Planned Spending	FTEs	Planned Spending	FTEs	Planned Spending
341	85.5	337	84.0	332	83.3

Program Activity Description: This Program Activity consists of the protection and recovery of species at risk; conservation, restoration and rehabilitation of significant habitats and conservation of migratory birds. A primary vehicle for the achievement of results under this program is the formation of strategic partnerships for integrated management of Canada’s natural capital including the sustainable management of landscapes. Key principles in support of results under this program are the use of best available science and the provision of regulatory certainty to stakeholders.

Initiatives and activities in this Program Activity flow from the legal obligations under the Canada Wildlife Act (CWA), the Migratory Birds Convention Act, 1994 (MBCA 1994), the Species at Risk Act (SARA), the Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999 (CEPA 1999) and the Wild Animal and Plant Protection and Regulation of International and Interprovincial Trade Act (WAPPRIITA).

Improvements continue to be made in program and policy mechanisms supporting the Species at Risk Act, in response to the recommendations made in the Formative Evaluation of Federal Species at Risk Programs and by the Minister’s Round Table on the Species at Risk Act. Significant progress was made on the policies in support of the Species at Risk Act, a number of bilateral agreements with provinces have been completed and the SARA Quality Management System has been initiated.

For further information please visit the following websites:

• Canadian Wildlife Service: http://www.cws-scf.ec.gc.ca/index_e.cfm
• Species at Risk Act (SARA): http://laws.justice.gc.ca/en/s-15.3/text.html
• Species at Risk Public Registry: http://www.sararegistry.gc.ca/default_e.cfm
• Formative Evaluation of Federal Species at Risk Programs: http://www.ec.gc.ca/ae-ve/default.asp?lang=en&n=53869FF3-1
• Canada Wildlife Act (CWA): http://www.cws-scf.ec.gc.ca/enforce/law_2_e.cfm
• Migratory Birds Conservation: http://www.cws-scf.ec.gc.ca/mbc-com/default.asp?lang=En&n=CF4732B8-1
• Migratory Birds Convention Act, 1994 (MBCA 1994): http://www.cws-scf.ec.gc.ca/enforce/law_1_e.cfm
• North American Waterfowl Management Plan (NAWMP): http://www.nawmp.ca/
• Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999 (CEPA 1999): http://www.ec.gc.ca/CEPARegistry/the_act/
• Wild Animal and Plant Protection and Regulation of International and Interprovincial Trade Act: http://www.cws-scf.ec.gc.ca/enforce/law_3_e.cfm
• Import and Export under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES): http://www.cws-scf.ec.gc.ca/enforce/cites/pages_e/index_e.htm
• Biodiversity 2010: http://www.cbd.int/2010-target/
• Compliance and Enforcement Policy for Wildlife Legislation: http://ec.gc.ca/alef-ewe/default.asp

Planning Highlights

Implement the Species at Risk Act through a transparent, consistent and harmonized policy and program framework that ensures stakeholder involvement and the inclusion of both ecological and socio-economic considerations.

• At present, 104 recovery strategies have been completed or are in the final stages and three management plans and one action plan have been completed. The work towards reaching the target of 100% of "at risk" species whose status has either improved or has stayed the same upon reassessment by 2015, is in the early stages. When the Species at Risk Act was proclaimed in 2003 there were 233 species on Schedule I, which required the need for recovery strategies and action plans. There are now 425 species on Schedule I so the planning and implementation demands on the Department have escalated significantly. Therefore, while the basic foundation to achieve the target has been developed much more work remains to be done.

Fulfill Canada’s obligations under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) by helping to ensure that no species are threatened by international trade.

• Prepare for participation in the Fifteenth meeting of the Conference of the Parties to CITES in January 2010.

Ensure effective conservation of migratory bird populations, while providing greater certainty for economic development, and improved program efficiency.

• Work will continue on the development and implementation of a regulation for the management of the incidental takes of migratory birds in accordance with the purpose of the Migratory Birds Convention Act, 1994. The regulation will ensure effective conservation of migratory bird populations while promoting sustainable economic development and also support the implementation of the North American Bird Conservation Initiative;
• Continue to update all-bird Conservation Plans for the 22 Bird Conservation Region (BCR) provincial areas. Draft plans will be available by June 2009 and the full complement of 22 plans is intended for completion by June 2010. BCR plans are an essential element of establishing regulations for incidental takes of migratory birds;
• Increase the percentage of migratory bird species whose population meets population goals, as defined in BCR plans, (measured as population size and/or trend) within four bird groups (waterfowl; shorebirds; land birds; water birds).

Ensure the protection and conservation of specific critical habitats by facilitating a national evolution toward systems of integrated landscape management.

• Continue towards the goal of 3.44 million hectares of land being secured by Environment Canada and its partners, to achieve population goals for all migratory bird Habitat Joint Ventures. The North American Waterfowl Management Plan (NAWMP) has, over 20 years, invested over U.S. $2.5 billion to conserve more than 2 million hectares of wetland in North America;
• Finalize and implement the Department’s protected areas strategy, including the development of permitting standards, updating management plans, and improving site conditions such as signage and fencing to better control access;
• Continue commitments to new northern protected areas with the implementation of the Northwest Territories Protected Areas Strategy and work on the Inuit Impact and Benefits Agreement to establish new National Wildlife Areas in Nunavut. Also, work will proceed towards the establishment of marine protected areas under the Canada Wildlife Act including Scott Island (B.C) and Sable Island (N.S.).

Prepare the Department and the federal government for the International Year of Biodiversity in 2010 and the 9^th Conference of the Parties to the Convention on Biodiversity in 2010 through the completion of significant policies and analyses that support Canada’s biodiversity goals:

• Complete and publish Ecosystem Status and Trends Report in 2009-2010.
• Prepare Canada’s 4th National Report on progress in implementing the Biodiversity commitments;
• Support the International Year of Biodiversity with educational tools, partnerships and targeted community funding to support increased awareness, knowledge and commitment to the conservation of biodiversity;
• Work will continue on the development of a Domestic Policy Framework for Access and Benefit Sharing (ABS) including engagement and consultations with Aboriginal peoples, provinces and territories and stakeholders.

Benefits to Canadians

The ultimate goal of this Program Activity is to ensure the protection of biodiversity within healthy ecosystems, taking social and economic considerations into account, for the benefit of present and future generations of Canadians.

Increasing knowledge, commitment and capacity for wildlife and biodiversity conservation will help to protect valuable ecosystems in Canada and help to position Canada as a responsible environmental steward.

Program Activity 1.2: Water Program

Expected Results	Performance Indicators	Targets
1. Reduced risks to aquatic ecosystems resulting from human activity.	1. Percentage of water bodies included in the Canadian Environmental Sustainability Indicators Freshwater Quality Index whose quality was rated as either good or excellent.	1. Available data are presently insufficient to report meaningful national trends for this indicator, thus no specific policy target has yet been established.
NB – Indicator assesses surface freshwater quality with respect to protecting aquatic life and not the quality of water for human consumption and use.

Human Resources (FTEs) and Planned Spending ($ millions)
2009-2010		2010-2011		2011-2012
FTEs	Planned Spending	FTEs	Planned Spending	FTEs	Planned Spending
588	98.3	574	92.1	564	84.3

Program Activity Description: This Program Activity is designed to provide science and policy leadership on water quality, quantity and use. Under this program, science will be focused on monitoring and research to understand what is changing in aquatic ecosystems and the reasons for the changes, as well as on providing science-based tools to empower Canadians to take action. Policy leadership will include developing a national water agenda in partnership with other government departments that identifies benefits and incentives for the sustainable use of water and ensuring that Canadian water related interests are protected globally. Involvement in transboundary arrangements will focus on ensuring that parties to water sharing agreements benefit from Canada’s technical advice and monitoring information to undertake measures to ensure compliance and meet their obligations.

Environment Canada works in collaboration with other federal departments, provinces and territories, science networks, as well as the public in determining priorities for monitoring and research, providing timely integrated scientific information and advice to decision-makers, building best management practices, and promoting sustainable water management in Canada for the efficient use of Canada’s water resources.

For further information:

• Water Policy and Legislation: http://www.ec.gc.ca/water/en/policy/e_policy.htm
• Environment Canada’s role in water, water management and environment-related water: http://www.ec.gc.ca/default.asp?lang=En&n=76D556B9-1
• Action Plan for Clean Water: http://www.ec.gc.ca/paae-apcw/Default.asp?lang=En&n=00C873D2-1
• Sustaining the Environment and Resources for Canadians: Freshwater: http://www.environmentandresources.ca/default.asp?lang=En&n=2B589A09-1

Planning Highlights

Provide federal policy and water management leadership on water quality, quantity and use and develop and implement approaches to address domestic and international water policy and management issues:

• Provide support to Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada to fulfill Environment Canada’s role in meeting the 2008 Speech from the Throne commitment to "bring in legislation to ban all bulk water transfers or exports from Canadian freshwater basins;"
• Deliver on commitments to Domestic Water Boards/Binational International Joint Commission (IJC) Boards – (Prairie Provinces Water Board, MacKenzie River Basin Board, Lake of the Woods Control Board, Ottawa River Board, Rainy River Board, and St. Croix River Board);
• Provide policy support on water quality, quantity and use through the Energy Sector Sustainability Table.

Deliver on commitments under priority domestic and international water-related initiatives:

• Second year of the Freshwater Initiative commitments: Great Lakes Remediation, Lake Simcoe, Lake Winnipeg Initiative, including development of Canada-Manitoba Agreement;
• Canada-U.S. Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement, the Canada-Ontario Agreement Respecting the Great Lakes (2007-2010), the Great Lakes Sustainability Fund, and the Canada-Quebec Agreement on the St. Lawrence 2005-2010;
• Review of federal/provincial Water Quality agreements;
• Deliver the water component of the Canadian Environmental Sustainability Indicators including the Water Quality Indicator Annual Report and the development of a Water Availability Indicator;
• Memorandum of Understanding with the Canadian Food Inspection Agency and Fisheries and Oceans Canada to deliver the Canadian Sanitation Shellfish Program.

Provide leadership on aquatic ecosystem science and conduct research and monitoring and analytical services on priority areas that are essential to support responsible decision-making:

• National implementation of an aquatic biomonitoring and assessment network;
• Develop new research and monitoring on the impacts of contaminants, climate variability and change on water quantity and quality and aquatic ecosystems;
• Develop surveillance activities related to water quality pressures (e.g. land use, emerging threats such as alien species and blue-green algae and on priority watersheds such as Mackenzie River, Great Lakes and St. Lawrence);
• Develop new research and development techniques for aquatic ecosystem remediation;
• Provide analytical laboratory and research support services to water initiatives as well as Wildlife and Pollution Enforcement;
• Improve decision support models and integration of water quality and water quantity modelling.

Benefits to Canadians

Managing Canada’s vast water resources, which represents about seven per cent of the world’s freshwater, is a responsibility for all levels of government. This program plays an important role in the management of Canada’s aquatic ecosystems by improving water quality and aquatic ecosystem health monitoring and information, enhancing the understanding of the impacts of human activities on water resources and aquatic ecosystem health, undertaking actions to restore and preserve Canada’s water resources and promote wise and efficient water management and use, enhancing inter-jurisdictional relations and governance structures, and improving federal water resource management across departments.

Program Activity 1.3: Ecosystems Initiatives Program

Expected Results	Performance Indicators	Targets
1. Beneficial uses and environmental quality in priority ecosystems are maintained or restored.	1. Index assessing the overall progress made against near- term objectives of Environment Canada’s six priority ecosystem initiatives.15	1.1. 100 by March 2010
2. Potential significant adverse environmental effects of projects / plans / programs / policies subject to federal environmental assessment legislation and Cabinet Directives are avoided or mitigated.	2. Proportion of projects referred to an EA panel for which Environment Canada provided expert environmental assessment advice on potential significant adverse environmental effects where that advice was incorporated and reflected into the decision.	2.1. 75% by 2009-2010
		2.2. 90% by 2010-2011

Human Resources (FTEs) and Planned Spending ($ millions)
2009-2010		2010-2011		2011-2012
FTEs	Planned Spending	FTEs	Planned Spending	FTEs	Planned Spending
283	40.6	281	40.0	279	39.8

Program Activity Description: This Program Activity is designed to integrate departmental action on ecosystems, by aligning science, policy, and environmental assessment in a nationally consistent inter-jurisdictional approach to ecosystem management. A further feature of this Program Activity will be multidisciplinary studies assessing the state of priority ecosystems and identifying the required actions for restoration and conservation.

Under the authority of the Canadian Environmental Assessment Act (CEAA), Environment Canada works with its partners to deliver environmental assessment (EA) services in order to protect and conserve Canada’s environment. Across the country, those working in Environment Canada’s EA Program examine projects and proposals, perform environmental assessments, and provide advice to Environment Canada and other federal departments.

The education and outreach activities of the Ecosystems Initiatives Program are designed to support Canadians in adopting sustainable practices and lifestyles.

For further information:

• Ecosystem Initiatives: http://www.ec.gc.ca/ecosyst/backgrounder.html
• Evaluation of the Georgia Basin Action Plan: http://www.ec.gc.ca/doc/ae-ve/ve-ae_123/tdm-toc_eng.htm
• Environmental Assessment: http://www.ec.gc.ca/ea-ee/home/home_e.asp
• Ecological Monitoring and Assessment Network: http://www.eman-rese.ca/eman/
• EcoAction Community Funding Program: http://www.ec.gc.ca/ecoaction/what_is_e.html
• Environmental Damages Fund: http://www.ec.gc.ca/edf-fde/default.asp?lang=En&n=C5BAD261-1

Planning Highlights

Priority Ecosystems

• Integrating departmental science, regulatory and outreach activities to improve ecosystem health;
• Support the renewal of the Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement led by Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada as well as the development of the Canada-Ontario Strategic Framework for the Great Lakes.

Environmental Assessment and Ecological Monitoring

• Support the upcoming legislative review of the Canadian Environmental Assessment Act based on the Department’s role as federal authority and as a primary responsible authority;
• Continue to meet obligations under the Canadian Environmental Assessment Act by acting either as federal authority or responsible authority for project Environmental Assessments;
• Continue to develop a national ecosystem and trend assessment program. In partnership with Natural Resources Canada and GeoConnections, examine emerging landscape modelling and prediction tools essential to support environmental assessment and land use planning.

Education and Outreach

• Maximize the potential of the Environmental Damages Fund, a court awards program that funds environmental restoration through fines imposed on polluters. The program will seek to substantially increase the number of awards directed to environmental restoration by building awareness, support and confidence in the Fund to manage, track and report on projects.

Benefits to Canadians

Ecosystem Initiatives such as the Great Lakes Basin Ecosystem Initiative and the St. Lawrence Plan are examples of place-based approaches to delivering on environmental results (such as restoring beneficial uses and environmental quality) that focus on engaging partners and local decision-makers, promoting integrated and adaptive management and taking action to solve complex environmental issues.

By implementing the program frameworks and improved information management system in the EA program, Environment Canada will be in a position to improve its efficiency and timely delivery of the program. This should be reflected, for instance, in departmental environmental assessment advice on potential significant adverse environmental effects being incorporated in panel review reports. Such incorporation of advice demonstrates that decisions to be taken about specific projects do aim to mitigate adverse significant environmental effects, thus ensuring Canadians that all relevant components to sustainable development are considered.

The Environmental Damages Fund provides direct benefits to Canadians in communities across the country in the form of improvements, restoration, and protection of local environments as well as improved accountability for these investments.

Engaging Canadians through education and outreach initiatives such as Environment Canada’s Biosphere builds knowledge, awareness, and commitment and, through funding mechanisms, creates capacity and tangible results for the protection and conservation of natural capital and healthy ecosystems.

Strategic Outcome 2: Weather and environmental predictions and services reduce risks and contribute to the well-being of Canadians

Canadians are affected by environmental and weather conditions such as extremes in temperature and precipitation, variable lake levels, winter storms, hurricanes, tornadoes, droughts, floods, smog, sea ice, road icing and air turbulence. Atmospheric conditions influence our health and safety, our property, our businesses and the economy. Consequently, Canadians must be able to take actions to limit negative impacts and optimize the opportunities (e.g. for wind energy or agriculture). To help Canadians take action, Weather and Environmental Services provides accurate and reliable meteorological and environmental information, predictions and services to promote safety, ecosystem sustainability and enhanced economic activity.

SO 2: Weather and environmental predictions and services reduce risks and contribute to the well-being of Canadians

Performance Indicators	Targets
Percentage of respondents who indicate that weather forecasts "always" or "usually" provided enough information to be useful.	85% of respondents indicate that weather forecasts "always" or "usually" provided enough information to be useful.
Number of visits / sessions to Environment Canada’s weather office website.	275 million of visits / sessions to Environment Canada’s weather office website.
Percentage of respondents who indicate that they "always" or "most of the time" receive enough notice of a winter storm to take preparatory action.	85% of respondents indicate that they "always" or "most of the time" receive enough notice of a winter storm to take preparatory action.
Program Activity 2.1 Environmental Science and Monitoring Program	Program Activity 2.2 Weather and Environmental Prediction Program

Program Activity 2.1: Environmental Science and Monitoring Program

Expected Results	Performance Indicators	Targets
1. Environment Canada and partners receive high quality observations that allow them to identify, analyze and predict weather, air, water and/or climate conditions.	1a. Percentage of monthly reports from the 87 stations in the climate observing network that meet World Meteorological Organization (WMO) standards.	1a. 85% by March 2010
	1b. Percentage of time that weather radar is available to forecasters and the public.	1b. 95% by March 2010
2. Environment Canada and partners receive high quality weather and environmental prediction information (or models) that allow them to identify, analyze and predict weather, air, water and/or climate conditions.	2. Rank of Canada’s global weather model among other global weather models.16	2. Canada’s weather model is ranked in the top 5 by April 2009
Links: Water Survey of Canada: http://www.wsc.ec.gc.ca/index_e.cfm

Human Resources (FTEs) and Planned Spending ($ millions)
2009-2010		2010-2011		2011-2012
FTEs	Planned Spending	FTEs	Planned Spending	FTEs	Planned Spending
728	106.5	727	106.0	709	103.0

Program Activity Description: This Program Activity consists of environmental science and monitoring activities to detect hazardous conditions, to understand what is changing in the atmosphere (weather, climate, air quality and ultraviolet radiation), hydrosphere (water) and cryosphere (ice and snow) and the causes. A key benefit of results under this program will be the provision of improved knowledge, information and tools on weather and environmental conditions (e.g. a better understanding of the causes of severe weather, the mechanisms that transport chemicals through the atmosphere and the impacts of human activity on the atmosphere). These benefits will support the delivery of environmental services as well as the development of policy for the sound management of the environment.

This Program Activity is expected to reach all targets and fulfill the expected results laid out above. Risks such as insufficient supercomputer capacity and access to the research community, inadequate observational data or resources to properly manage the monitoring networks and difficulties in attracting or retaining necessary, world-class experts are being anticipated and managed before they become problematic. The audit of Contingency Plans for the Meteorological Service of Canada Weather Prediction Program¹⁷ revealed that a more formal, standard and integrated contingency planning program is needed to maintain continuous, uninterrupted operations. In response, such a program will be established to coordinate this effort, with representatives from monitoring, prediction as well as with Administration (facilities) and the Chief Information Officer Branch (IT).

Planning Highlights

This Program Activity establishes the foundation of scientific knowledge used to estimate the risks posed by weather and related conditions, as well as the opportunities these conditions may offer to improve economic well-being. To continue to fulfill this essential function and address challenges regarding observation networks and scientific capacity, this Activity intends to:

• Continue to provide reliable information about the current state of the environment with respect to weather, water and climate, particularly in strengthening our partnerships with the provinces to increase data availability regarding water level and flow to Canadians and specialized users;
• Risk-manage its monitoring systems and networks, including the development of a monitoring plan;
• Exploit and maximize benefits from advances in science and technology for weather, water, air quality and climate services by: a) improving access to scientific information; b) enhancing integrated monitoring and environmental prediction capability; c) transferring techniques, knowledge and technology to service operations and, d) planning for the renewal of the supercomputer in 2011 to ensure continued provision of weather warnings, forecasts and climate predictions;
• Inform policy and decisions based on further development of global and regional modelling capabilities;
• Lever information, expertise and knowledge through national and international (WMO and others) partnerships to access needed meteorological in-situ, airborne, satellite and other remote sensed data and the results of international science activities to address critical program gaps.

Benefits to Canadians

Better observational data and a stronger scientific foundation will lead to the following benefits:

• Improved accuracy and lead times for warnings of severe weather, thus improving the safety margin for Canadians;
• Improved accuracy and utility of weather and related information and predictions to provide a stronger scientific basis for policy development and decision-making. As a result, Canadians and their institutions can better adapt to manage the risks they face from changes in the environment as well as benefit from the opportunities in fields such as agriculture, forestry, or renewable energy.

Program Activity 2.2: Weather and Environmental Prediction Program

Expected Results	Performance Indicators	Targets
1. Canadians use weather forecasts for decision making.	1a. Percentage of Canadians who indicate that they seek out weather forecasts at least once per day.	1a. 90% by March 2012
	1b. Percentage of Canadians who indicate usage of Environment Canada’s weather and environmental information dissemination tools. (Tools are Automated Telephone Answering Devices, Weatheradio, Weatheroffice).	1b. 35% by March 2012
2. Weather and climate sensitive industries, governments and institutions are aware of and benefit from Environment Canada’s weather, climate, water and their services in their economic decision making & planning.	2. Client satisfaction, on a scale of 1 (excellent) to 5 (unsatisfactory), averaged across all Service Quality categories and across the four NAV CANADA-specified Environment Canada operations.18	2. 3.0 by April 2010
Links: weather forecasts and warnings: http://www.weatheroffice.gc.ca Atmospheric Hazards: http://www.hazards.ca Air Quality Health Index: http://www.ec.gc.ca/cas-aqhi/default.asp Canadian Ice Service: http://ice-glaces.ec.gc.ca/

Human Resources (FTEs) and Planned Spending ($ millions)
2009-2010		2010-2011		2011-2012
FTEs	Planned Spending	FTEs	Planned Spending	FTEs	Planned Spending
1,065	131.2	1,040	127.2	981	117.3

Program Activity Description: This Program Activity consists of making available relevant knowledge and information on past, present and future conditions of the atmosphere, hydrosphere and cryosphere, in response to the needs of policy/decision-makers, business persons or individual Canadians, or others who require this information to deliver on ministerial or federal responsibilities and obligations (e.g. NAV CANADA). Under this Program Activity, information on the state of the environment is disseminated by means of various services, products and tools allowing Canadians to safeguard themselves and their property against environmental hazards and to help them make better informed socio-economic and environmental decisions. Domestic and international partnerships are critical to the success of these endeavours.

Targets for this Program Activity are unchanged from 2008-2009 and are expected to be reached. These targets demonstrate the consistency and reliability of the Weather and Environmental Prediction program in spite of challenges such as those posed by the increasing demand for information and services (e.g. for the North or regarding climate variations). The Department’s ISO 9001-certified Quality Management System for this business line, which fosters a quality improvement culture, is an important tool to help address these challenges.

Planning Highlights

This Program Activity includes the main functions regarding the delivery of services related to weather, climate or water levels and flows. It allows Canadians, their businesses and institutions to integrate into their short-term and long-term decisions and plans information about the past, present and especially future states of weather and climate. These users are thus better able to protect themselves against potentially dangerous conditions and to benefit from opportunities to help the environment and the economy. This Activity plans to:

• Provide reliable weather, water, climate and air quality information and predictions 24 hours a day, 7 days a week by:
  • Providing timely warnings and accurate forecasts;
  • Providing meteorological information to emergency management organizations before, during and after emergencies and enhancing services to these organizations and to the media in times of severe weather;
  • Continuing to provide and implement, in a phased manner, the Air Quality Health Index in collaboration with Health Canada and provincial, territorial and municipal health agencies;
  • Improving the usefulness of information for decision makers through initiatives like research on climate change scenarios, vulnerability and impacts assessments and tools to support decision-making;
  • Contributing to community resilience by: a) developing disaster risk reduction models/tools including climatic design recommendations for infrastructure codes/standards with various partners and b) providing expert advice on the impacts of changing weather and climate patterns on water availability and exploring new products and tools (such as drought indices).
• Position Canada’s meteorological and hydrological service to respond to future challenges, by:
  • Leading and developing a strategy to ensure the sustainability and integrity of weather and environmental services to respond to emerging and evolving needs of Canadians for improved services. The views of partners and stakeholders will help shape the development of this strategy.
  • Pursuing an international strategy for the Department to access earth observations and global science for the advantage of Canadians, including pursuing long-standing bilateral relationships with the U.S. and China.
  • Addressing critical gaps by participating in national and international partnerships and initiatives to access information, expertise and knowledge.
  • Contributing to the success of the Vancouver 2010 Winter Games by delivering timely, high-quality weather information to the Games organizers, participants and spectators.

Benefits to Canadians

Weather and environmental information and predictions enable Canadians and their enterprises, institutions and governments to prepare and take appropriate actions to safeguard life and property, adopt health strategies to mitigate the harmful effects of air pollution and prosper through decisions that advance economic competitiveness and individual well-being.

• More specifically, benefits include:
  • Constant watch of potentially inclement weather to alert Canadians to potentially life-threatening circumstances;
  • Access to timely, quality weather, water, climate and air quality information and predictions all the time over Canada’s sovereign territory and adjacent waters via multiple means including radio, television and http://www.weatheroffice.gc.ca/;
  • Insights on the impacts and vulnerabilities of a changing climate at global and regional scales that inform built infrastructure design codes, policy development and adaptation strategies;
  • Provision of timely and accurate information about ice in Canada’s navigable waters.

Strategic Outcome 3: Canadians and their environment are protected from the effects of pollution and waste

Toxic and other harmful substances pose considerable threats to the health and well-being of Canadians and have significant negative impacts on air, water and land. These substances may exert a direct or indirect harmful effect on animals, plants or humans and, depending on their volume, nature and manner of release, may pose long-term risks to the environment. In addition, some potentially hazardous chemicals are accumulating in humans and in our ecosystems-in lakes, rivers, and wildlife. Due to global atmospheric transport and other pathways, the Arctic region is a major receptor of these pollutants and their associated effects.

Scientific research shows that human activities (particularly the use of fossil fuels and the clear-cutting of forests) are accelerating the concentration of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere. As a result, the earth’s average temperature is getting warmer. This will have far-reaching environmental, social, and economic consequences.

Environment Canada is taking strong regulatory action to protect Canadians and their environment from the effects of greenhouse gas emissions, air pollution and toxic substances:

• Tackling Climate Change – The Government is committed to a national target of reducing Canada’s total greenhouse gas emissions by 20 percent by 2020 and has indicated that it will work with provincial governments and partners to develop and implement a North America-wide cap-and-trade system for GHGs.
• Canada’s Chemicals Management Plan – in partnership with Health Canada, Environment Canada is taking immediate and systematic action to manage chemicals that are harmful to human health or the environment.
• Improving the Enforcement of Environmental Laws – as per the 2007 and 2008 budgets, Environment Canada is significantly enhancing the capacity of its enforcement program to target high risk compliance areas, increase capacity to respond to referrals and incidents (see Other Items of Interest on page 49).

The Department’s work that contributes to this Strategic Outcome and the priorities stated above has been organized into three program activities: Chemicals Management Program; Legislation and Information Program and the Clean Air Program.

SO 3: Canadians and their environment are protected from the effects of pollution and waste

Performance Indicators19	Targets
1. Canadian emissions of greenhouse gases (carbon dioxide equivalents) in mega tonnes (MT).	1. Total national emissions of 577 MT by 2020 based on current estimates and as part of a national effort by all governments in Canada.
	The Government’s commitment is to a national 20% reduction in Canada’s total greenhouse gas emissions by 2020. This includes actions by provinces and territories.
2. Canadian ambient ground-level ozone levels measured in parts per billion (ppb).	2 and 3. Targets will be determined with the finalization of the air pollutant regulatory framework.
3. Canadian ambient fine particulate matter (PM2.5) levels measured in micrograms per cubic meter (μg/m3).

Program Activity 3.1 Chemicals Management Program

Program Activity 3.2 Legislation and Information Program

Program Activity 3.3 Clean Air Program

Program Activity 3.1: Chemicals Management Program

Expected Results	Performance Indicators	Targets
1. Risks to Canadians and impacts on their environment posed by toxic and other substances of concern are reduced.	1. Number of existing commercial substances under the Chemicals Management Plan assessed for risk to human health and/or the environment.	1. 4300 by 2020
	2. Percentage of new commercial substances, for which Environment Canada has been notified by industry of their intended use, that are assessed to determine if toxic within the timelines in the regulation.	2. 100% by March 31, 2010
	3. Percentage of substances added to the List of Toxic Substances for which at least one risk management instrument has been developed within legally mandated timeframes.	3. 100% by March 31, 2010

Human Resources (FTEs) and Planned Spending ($ millions)
2009-2010		2010-2011		2011-2012
FTEs	Planned Spending	FTEs	Planned Spending	FTEs	Planned Spending
863	131.3	838	114.9	676	85.4

Program Activity Description: This program aims to protect the health of Canadians and their environment by assessing, managing and mitigating the risks posed by substances throughout their full life cycles. This program is aimed at reducing harm from toxics and other harmful substances which pose considerable threats to the health and well-being of Canadians and have significant negative impacts on the environment, economy and our quality of life.

The main focus of this program is the Chemicals Management Plan (CMP), which deals with the legacy of existing substances and maintains the New Substances Program, both key components of the Government of Canada’s pollution prevention agenda.

The Plan’s four-year incremental funding improves the degree of protection against hazardous chemicals by taking a number of new, proactive measures to ensure that chemical substances are managed more efficiently and in a timely fashion. To date, through an initiative known as the "Challenge," Environment Canada and Health Canada have identified some 200 high-priority substances and are working with industry and stakeholders, within a three-year timeframe, to develop a sound management plan for these substances.

In addition to the CMP, this Program Activity also includes other activities that reduce the risks to Canadians and impacts on their environment posed by toxic and other harmful substances. These include:

• Establishing national standards for wastewater management across Canada;
• Ensuring effective national coordination to prevent coastal and marine pollution from land-based sources by assessing waste and other matter for disposal at sea, issuing appropriate permits and monitoring representative disposal sites;
• Ensuring that risks related to the transboundary movement of hazardous wastes are managed;
• Strengthening the end-of-life and waste-recyclables management regimes;
• Implementing the Federal Contaminated Sites Action Plan (FCSAP), a government-wide program to assist federal departments, agencies and crown corporations to remediate their contaminated sites;
• Implementing regulatory programs for mining and pulp and paper sectors;
• Minimizing the risks of accidental/uncontrolled releases of hazardous substances at industrial facilities that use such materials by enhancing process safety and ensuring that effective emergency contingency plans are in place;
• Assessing and managing risks associated with new biotechnology products, primarily those for industrial application.

For further information on the Environment Canada’s work that contributes to this Program Activity’s expected results, please visit the following websites:

• Chemicals Management Plan: http://www.chemicalsubstanceschimiques.gc.ca/plan/index_e.html
• The Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999 (CEPA 1999): http://www.ec.gc.ca/CEPARegistry/the_act/
• Waste Management: http://www.ec.gc.ca/wmd-dgd/default.asp?lang=En&n=FDC36D83-1
• Pollution Prevention: http://www.ec.gc.ca/NOPP/EN/index.cfm
• Environmental emergencies: http://www.ec.gc.ca/ee-ue/default.asp?lang=En&n=8A6C8F31-1
• Evaluation of the Environmental Emergencies Program: http://www.ec.gc.ca/doc/ae-ve/pue-eep/532_eng.htm
• Marine Pollution Prevention: http://www.ec.gc.ca/seadisposal/main/index_e.htm
• Environmental Enforcement: http://www.ec.gc.ca/alef-ewe/default.asp?lang=En&n=C3039403-1

Planning Highlights

In partnership with Health Canada, continue implementing the Government’s Chemicals Management Plan to improve the degree of protection against hazardous chemicals, including the following:

• Continue to address high priority substances under the Chemicals Management Plan (CMP), by implementing the Challenge Initiative and the Petroleum Sector Stream Approach according to the established timeline;
• Develop strategies to address medium priority substances using a sectoral approach where possible;
• Continue to administer existing regulations that support the sound management of chemicals and, where warranted, develop new instruments to control harmful substances;
• Enhance coherence among relevant legislative and policy regimes;
• Enhance cooperative approaches (internationally and domestically) for the management of chemicals over their lifecycle;
• Design research and monitoring programs to address chemicals of emerging concern, risk assessment needs and risk management activities;
• Deliver the first cyclical update of the Domestic Substances List that includes maximizing opportunities for information exchange and comparability with the United States.

Development of risk management and mitigation strategies, instruments and measures (e.g. regulations, performance agreements and environmental emergency plans) for assessed commercial chemicals:

• Advance work on the environmental elements of the federal government’s Northern Agenda and Wastewater implementation work;
• Implement results of reviews for the National Program of Action for land-based sources of marine pollution and the environmental emergencies response program;
• Analyse environmental risks of federal government operations and activities on federal and Aboriginal lands and develop appropriate instruments to address highest risks;
• Work with other federal government departments, agencies and crown corporations to renew the Federal Contaminated Sites Action Plan (FCSAP) program;
• Implement regulatory programs for mining and pulp and paper sectors, including results of review of Environmental Effects Monitoring (EEM) program and streamlining of regulatory process.

Strengthen Environment Canada’s capacity to enforce environmental protection legislation under its jurisdiction:

• Develop and implement national enforcement plans for Environmental Enforcement Operations, aligning resources with threats/risks;
• Conduct national staffing campaigns to implement the Government’s commitment to expanding resources for Environment Canada’s enforcement regime to improve Environmental Enforcement Outcomes.

Benefits to Canadians

The main outcome of the CMP is the risk assessment and, where appropriate, risk management of all commercial chemicals that were in use in Canada prior to modern environmental protection legislation (i.e. CEPA 1999). The main benefits of this are:

• An improved information base;
• Regulatory clarity and predictability for industry; and
• Protection of Canadians and their environment from the potential risks posed by commercial chemicals.

In addition to the CMP, this Program Activity also includes other ongoing activities that reduce the risks to Canadians and impacts on their environment associated with commercial and industrial activities.

The effective enforcement of and compliance with Canada’s environmental protection acts and regulations aims to protect and conserve Canada’s air, water, wildlife species and their habitat.

Program Activity 3.2: Legislation and Information Program

Expected Results	Performance Indicators	Targets
1. Facilities releasing pollutants to the environment comply with public reporting requirements.	1. Percentage of facilities reporting emissions to the National Pollutant Release Inventory which provide fully compliant reports in their initial response within mandated timeframes.	1. 100% by 2009-2010
2. Regulations and orders made by Environment Canada under the Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999 (CEPA 1999) and under the Fisheries Act (FA) comply with the Cabinet Directive on Streamlining Regulation, statutory and other policy requirements.	2. Percentage of regulations and orders under CEPA and FA using a Quality Management System (QMS) for which all stages of the QMS were implemented as required.	2. 100% by 2009-2010

Human Resources (FTEs) and Planned Spending ($ millions)
2009-2010		2010-2011		2011-2012
FTEs	Planned Spending	FTEs	Planned Spending	FTEs	Planned Spending
274	47.9	287	62.3	205	48.2

Program Activity Description: This program aims to protect the health of Canadians and their environment by supporting effective risk management decision-making within Government through the provision of high quality information on sources and sinks of toxics, pollutants and greenhouse gases. This program is necessary because toxics, air pollutants and greenhouse gas emissions pose considerable threats to the health and well-being of Canadians and have significant negative impacts on the environment, economy and our quality of life. This program’s mix of short-term and permanent funding supports effective decision-making along the full risk management, compliance and reporting continuum through the collection, analysis, management and assembling of data to meet international reporting obligations and domestic reporting needs. This program will reduce the risks to Canadians, their health and their environment from toxics, air pollutants, and greenhouse gases.

In order to achieve our environmental protection objectives under this Strategic Outcome, this Program Activity is engaged in actions that support the implementation of our Clean Air Regulatory Agenda, the Chemicals Management Plan and other legislative priorities:

• Support for instrument of choice and efficient, consistent and transparent regulatory decision making processes;
• Generate and collect data on environmental pollutants and greenhouse gases to inform Canadians and decision makers of risks and trends;
• Implement the statutory governance provisions of CEPA 1999 and oversee all legislative reforms related to Environment Canada’s statutes;
• Coordinate and deliver compliance promotion for Environment Canada’s environmental protection laws.

The Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999 is the principal legal foundation for both the Chemicals Management Plan and the Clean Air Agenda. In May 2007, the House of Commons Standing Committee on Environment and Sustainable Development concluded in its report entitled The Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999 - Five-Year Review: Closing the Gaps, that the basic architecture of the CEPA 1999 is sound and that, in the future, the Government’s focus should be on expanding knowledge and improving implementation.

In the area of generating and collecting data on environmental pollutants and greenhouse gases (GHGs), the Department’s focus has been on developing a single-window reporting system. This system will enable the integration of various data collection supporting the Clean Air Regulatory Agenda (CARA) and foster improvement of air pollutants (AP) and GHG emissions estimation techniques and data quality.

For further information on the work undertaken to achieve the planned results in this Program Activity, please visit the following websites:

• CEPA Environmental Registry: http://www.ec.gc.ca/cepaRegistry/
• CEPA Review: http://199.212.18.76/CEPARegistry/review/default.cfm
• National Pollutant Release Inventory (NPRI): http://www.ec.gc.ca/pdb/npri/npri_home_e.cfm
• Criteria Air Contaminant (CAC) Emissions Inventory: http://www.ec.gc.ca/pdb/npri/npri_links_e.cfm
• Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Inventory: http://www.ec.gc.ca/pdb/ghg/ghg_home_e.cfm
• Compliance and Enforcement Policy for the Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999: http://environmentcanada.gc.ca/alef-ewe/default.asp?lang=en&n=AF0C5063-1
• Compliance and Enforcement Policy for the Habitat Protection and Pollution Prevention Provisions of the Fisheries Act – November 2001: http://environmentcanada.gc.ca/alef-ewe/default.asp?lang=En&n=D6B74D58-1

Planning Highlights

Environment Canada will undertake actions that support the implementation of our Clean Air Regulatory Agenda, the Chemicals Management Plan and other CEPA 1999/Fisheries Act priorities:

• Maintenance of a quality management system (QMS) to ensure that decision-making for regulations, as well as implementation of other regulatory tools such as Codes of Practice, Pollution Prevention Plans and Performance Agreements, under key environmental protection statutes such as CEPA 1999 is as consistent, transparent and predictable as possible;
• Continuing efforts to coordinate and improve the quality of emissions reporting, including:
  • working with the provinces and territories towards a single, harmonized system for mandatory reporting of all pollutant and GHG emissions; and
  • improving the quality of information reported to and contained in the National Pollutant Release Inventory (NPRI) and the emissions inventories for pollutants and GHGs.
• Continue development of electronic and other infrastructure needed to support regulatory regime (credit tracking system and compliance assessment process);
• Undertake technology research and development to assess whether emerging technologies will aid industry in meeting its regulatory obligations.

Benefits to Canadians

Within the federal government, CEPA 1999 is the primary environmental legislation for protecting the Canadian environment and human health. A key aspect of CEPA 1999 is the prevention and management of risks posed by toxic and other harmful substances. CEPA 1999 also manages environmental and human health impacts of products of biotechnology, marine pollution, disposal at sea, vehicle, engine and equipment emissions, fuels, hazardous wastes, environmental emergencies, and other sources of pollution.

Providing publicly accessible information on pollutants and their associated risks is a means by which the Department can promote the use of environmental information in market-based decisions to encourage and enable sustainable production and consumption.

Program Activity 3.3: Clean Air Program

Expected Results	Performance Indicators	Targets
Risks to Canadians, their health and their environment from air pollutants and greenhouse gas emissions are reduced.	1. Canadian industrial emissions of greenhouse gases (carbon dioxide equivalents) in megatonnes (MT).	1. Total national industrial greenhouse gas emissions of 240 MT by 2020 based on current estimates. (The Government’s commitment is to a national 20% reduction in Canada’s total greenhouse gas emissions by 2020 as part of a national effort by all governments in Canada).
	2. Canadian industrial emissions: Tonnes (T) Particulate Matter 10 (PM10); Sulphur dioxide (SO2); Nitrogen oxides (NOx); Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs). Kilograms Mercury (Hg)	2. Targets will be determined with the finalization of the air pollutant regulatory framework.
	3. Canadian transportation emissions: Tonnes (T) Particulate Matter 10 (PM10); Nitrogen oxides (NOx); Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs); Carbon Monoxide (CO2).	3. Targets will be determined with the finalization of the air pollutant regulatory framework.

Human Resources (FTEs) and Planned Spending ($ millions)
2009-2010		2010-2011		2011-2012
FTEs	Planned Spending	FTEs	Planned Spending	FTEs	Planned Spending
598	138.6	594	131.2	343	39.6

Program Activity Description: This program aims to protect the health of Canadians and their environment by assessing, managing and mitigating the risks from air pollutants and greenhouse gas emissions. This program is necessary because air pollutants and greenhouse gas emissions pose considerable threats to the health and well-being of Canadians and have significant negative impacts on the environment, economy and our quality of life. This program’s four year funding builds upon existing permanent funding using an integrated approach to managing air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions by regulating industrial, transportation and consumer and commercial product sector emissions.

On March 10, 2008, the federal government published Turning the Corner: Regulatory Framework for Industrial Greenhouse Gas Emissions, which set out a regulatory framework for the greenhouse gas elements of the Clean Air Regulatory Agenda (CARA). Finalization of the regulations will occur in the context of developing a North American cap-and-trade system. CARA is a component of the Clean Air Agenda which is an Environment Canada-led federal horizontal initiative involving nine departments and agencies and incorporating the development of both regulation and program measures to achieve measurable reductions in greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution.

The Government is also making investments in clean energy and transportation technologies in Canada, which are anticipated to yield reductions in the short term, as well as lead to long-term economic benefits from improved energy efficiency, greater competitiveness, more opportunity to sell Canadian environmental products and knowledge abroad and more jobs for Canadians.

For more information on the federal government’s Clean Air Agenda, please visit the following websites:

Clean Air Online: http://www.ec.gc.ca/cleanair-airpur/Home-WS8C3F7D55-1_En.htm

Clean Air Agenda (horizontal initiative): http://www.tbs-sct.gc.ca/rpp/2009-2010/index-eng.asp

Planning Highlights

Continue implementing an integrated approach to managing air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions by regulating industrial, transportation and consumer and commercial product sector emissions:

• Advance approaches to reduce GHG emissions from industrial sectors in the context of a North American cap-and-trade system;
• Advance work on a regulatory framework for air pollutant emissions;
• Continue the development of the renewable fuel regulation to mandate a 5% renewable fuel content in gasoline and 2% renewable fuel content in diesel;
• Work with Transport Canada in the development of vehicle fuel consumption regulations and to reduce air pollutants and greenhouse gases from other modes of transportation (marine shipping, rail and aviation);
• Continue development and implementation of air pollutant emission regulations for various classes of on-road vehicles, large and small engines used in off-road applications and fuels;
• Develop harmonized global technical regulations for vehicles and engines to ensure that stringent emission standards will be applied around the world, along with continued development of a joint Canada-U.S. application to the International Maritime Organization proposing to designate North American waters as an Emission Control Area;
• Advance work with the United States on a Particulate Matter (PM) Annex to the Canada- United States Air Quality Agreement;
• Finalize and implement regulations related to concentration limits of Volatile Organic Compounds in certain consumer and commercial products;
• Oversee the implementation of the vehicle scrappage program, which will help to remove older, higher polluting vehicles from Canadian roads;
• Upgrade and/or develop scientific and economic models to measure the impacts and benefits of proposed mitigation options and improve and expand the network to monitor air pollutants.

Benefits to Canadians

The Clean Air Program aims to reduce the risks to Canadians, their health and their environment from air pollutants and greenhouse gas emissions. The Government of Canada will work with its partners to meet its target of reducing greenhouse gases an absolute 20 percent by 2020, in particular through the implementation of a North America-wide cap-and-trade system.

Internal Services Program Activity

Program Activity: Internal Services

Human Resources (FTEs) and Planned Spending ($ millions)
2009-10		2010-11		2011-12
FTEs	Planned Spending	FTEs	Planned Spending	FTEs	Planned Spending
1,938	283.7	1,932	283.1	1,852	273.2

Program Activity Summary and Planning Highlights

The Internal Services Program Activity includes three sub-activities which assist Environment Canada (EC) in delivering on its mandate and commitments towards improving the quality of life and health of Canadians:

1. Governance and Management Support;
2. Resource Management Services;
3. Asset Management Services.

This Program Activity is supported by an Internal Services (IS) Board consisting of representatives from across the Department, including: Management and Oversight Services (Strategic Policy, Science and Technology Policy, Corporate Services, Internal Audit Services, Evaluation Services, Values and Ethics); Communications; Legal Services; Human Resources Management Services; Financial Management Services; Information Management Services; Information Technology Services; Travel and Other Administrative Services; Real Property; Materiel; Acquisitions; as well as from the regions.

The IS Board provides program managers with integrated information and services to enable them to make sound decisions and deliver on the Department’s mandate and commitments effectively and efficiently.

The policy priorities of the Internal Services Program Activity support the Environment Canada and Government of Canada policy agenda while the management priorities enable program areas to pursue Environment Canada’s mandate in a manner that meets the stewardship and performance requirements of the Management, Resources and Results Structure Policy, the Management Accountability Framework and specific program priorities.

Environment Canada plans to focus on Internal Services policy priorities which include:

• Strengthening policy analysis and coordination capacity in support of Environment Canada program priorities and the Government of Canada’s overall environmental agenda;
• Implementing a departmental approach on international strategic issues through the international Policy Framework (e.g. G8-2010, trade agreements, strategic partners and organizations);
• Proactively engaging in international negotiations to achieve a robust and effective global greenhouse gas reduction agreement for the post-2012 period;
• Implementing the Federal Sustainable Development Act, and developing the first federal sustainable development strategy;
• Enhancing how Environment Canada engages provincial and territorial governments, stakeholders and citizens in policy development and sustainable actions;
• Articulating clearly the link between the environment and the economy and enhancing communication of other key environmental information.

Environment Canada plans to focus on departmental management priorities which include:

• Simplifying the management of Environment Canada’s financial resources. This will be accomplished by improving the quality, timeliness and consistency of financial information and reporting and by assigning greater flexibility to managers in exercising responsibilities in accordance with delegated authorities;
• Progressing towards meeting the Financial Statement Audit Readiness (FSAR) Report requirements;
• Clarifying the roles, responsibilities, and accountabilities for managers by stabilizing Environment Canada’s new governance structure, improving the integration of business, financial and human resources planning and the departmental planning cycle, and implementing a renewed Program Activity Architecture (PAA);
• Focusing on people management and the provision of a healthy and productive workforce. This will be accomplished by implementing strategies in the 4 priority areas identified in the Department’s Human Resources Plan, i.e. effective staffing and recruitment, improving representativeness, retaining and enhancing talent through learning and development and retaining and strengthening capacity through succession planning. In addition, Environment Canada will respond to the results of the 2008 Public Service Survey when they become available;
• As one of five early adopter departments, Environment Canada will continue participating in the TBS-led Corporate Administrative Shared Services Initiative;
• Strengthening Environment Canada’s information management (IM) and information technology (IT) services. This will be accomplished by implementing the Department’s IM & IT Plan; optimizing IM and IT infrastructure to promote effective Life Cycle Management and Government of Canada "greening government" objectives; ensuring optimal alignment between departmental and program objectives and delivery of IM and IT products and services; and providing secure, reliable and efficient IM and IT products and services to meet departmental requirements;
• Strengthening Environment Canada’s management of its assets. This will be accomplished by: developing an Accommodation Strategy; enhancing and standardizing Environment Canada’s approach to Life Cycle Management; improving the Materiel Management Framework; improving the departmental Project Management Framework and partnering with Public Works and Government Services Canada in the development and implementation of the Greening Government Strategy;
• Providing high-quality legal advice to ensure that decisions are based on a thorough understanding of Environment Canada’s legal authorities and relevant legal risks;
• Maintaining strong and independent internal audit and evaluation functions that support the Deputy Minister in his role as Accounting Officer.

Section III – Supplementary Information

List of Supplementary Tables

• Details of Transfer Payment Programs
• Up-Front Multi-Year Funding (table formerly called "Foundations")
• Green Procurement
• Sustainable Development Strategy
• Horizontal Initiatives
• Internal Audits
• Evaluations
• Sources of Respendable and Non-Respendable Revenue
• Summary of Capital Spending by Program Activity
• User Fees

Please note that these tables are available electronically and can be accessed on the Treasury Board Secretariat’s website at: http://www.tbs-sct.gc.ca/rpp/st-ts-eng.asp.

Other Items of Interest

Enforcement of Environmental Legislation

Canadians demand that the federal government ensures the protection of Canada’s environment. The components of a successful enforcement regime include: a sufficient number of enforcement officers; the ability to levy penalties where appropriate; sentencing that acts as a deterrent and is commensurate with the severity of the offence; adequate levels of program management and operational support and training; efficient data management; the ability to analyze forensic evidence; timely legal advice and support; access to the latest technology; and, an ability to effectively build cases and prosecute offenders. The Government made a significant investment in the enforcement program in Budget 2007 by providing $22 million over two years to hire and train 106 new enforcement officers. This investment enables the Department to plan and implement enforcement activities to prevent, detect, and deter regulatory non-compliance, focusing specifically on targeting high risk compliance areas; increasing capacity to respond to referrals and incidents; and increasing the ability to cover geographical areas.

Budget 2008 invested a further $21 million over two years to improve environmental enforcement outcomes through key capital investments, bolstered scientific and technical capacity to support enforcement operations, and enhanced enforcement planning and reporting.

Sustainable Development

The Federal Sustainable Development Act was passed in June 2008 in response to the need for a more coordinated approach to the implementation of sustainable development within the federal government. The Act requires that the Minister of the Environment table a federal sustainable development strategy in Parliament, complete with goals, targets and implementation strategies, by the spring of 2010. Federal departments are expected to table individual strategies in 2011 to reflect how their program activities will support the federal goals and targets. As a result, both the federal and departmental strategies will contribute to a more coherent approach to sustainable development as well as support and foster greater transparency and accountability both to the public and Parliament in terms of the practice of sustainable development within the federal government. Environment Canada’s next sustainable development strategy will be tabled in 2011 in compliance with the Act.

Mackenzie Gas Project

The machinery of government changes, announced on October 30, 2008, transferred responsibility for the Mackenzie Gas Project (MGP) from the Minister of Industry to the Minister of the Environment. The mission and expected results of the Project have not changed. This program concerns a proposed $16B natural gas field development and pipeline in the Northwest Territories. The project will connect stranded gas resources in the NWT and Beaufort Sea with markets in the rest of North America, thereby generating significant economic and fiscal benefits for both the territorial and federal governments. Environment Canada’s planned spending excludes funding for the Mackenzie Gas Project. The authority for this project will be transferred from Industry Canada through the 2009-2010 Supplementary Estimates. Budget 2009 provides $37.6 million in 2009-2010 to departments and agencies in support of environmental assessments, regulatory coordination, science, and Aboriginal consultations related to the Mackenzie Gas Project.

Official Languages

Under the Official Languages Act, Environment Canada’s obligations include providing bilingual services to the public and ensuring that the language of work provisions are respected at all times.

Environment Canada is committed to ensuring that members of the public can exercise their right to communicate with the Department, and obtain services in the official language of their choice and to create and maintain, for its employees, a work environment that is conducive to the use of both official languages. To this effect, Environment Canada identifies, on an ongoing basis, all employees who require language training to meet the language requirements of their position and ensures that they have access to and complete such training within the timeframe prescribed by the Public Service Official Languages Exclusion Approval Order. The Department also encourages employees to acquire or improve second official language skills in order to advance their careers and possibly fill bilingual positions in the future as part of their personal development plans and in accordance with the Departmental Guidelines on Second Language Learning for Career Development Purposes.

The Department also ensures that English-speaking and French-speaking Canadians have equal opportunities for employment and advancement and that the Department’s workforce reflects the presence of both official languages communities in Canada.

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¹ Responsibility for the Toronto Waterfront Revitalization Initiative (TWRI) has been transferred to the Minister of Finance, effective October 30, 2008. Transfer of TWRI funds will occur through the Main Estimates in 2009-2010. Similarly, responsibility for the Mackenzie Gas Project (MGP) has been transferred to the Minister of the Environment from the Minister of Industry, effective October 30, 2008. [Back]

² For information on initiatives under this Strategic Outcome, please visit: http://www.ec.gc.ca/default.asp. [Back]

³ For more information on Weather and Environmental Prediction Services, please go to: http://www.msc-smc.ec.gc.ca/contents_e.html. [Back]

⁴ For more information, please go to: http://www.ec.gc.ca/default.asp?lang=En&n=28DD35DC-1. [Back]

⁵ For more detailed information on the Chemicals Management Plan, please go to: http://www.chemicalsubstanceschimiques.gc.ca/plan/index_e.html. [Back]

⁶ For more information, please go to: http://www.sararegistry.gc.ca/default_e.cfm. [Back]

⁷ For detailed information, please visit: http://www.tbs-sct.gc.ca/est-pre/estime.asp. [Back]

⁸ For information on the Contaminated Sites Action Plan, please go to: http://www.federalcontaminatedsites.gc.ca/index-eng.aspx. [Back]

⁹ For more information, please go to: http://www.sdinfo.gc.ca. [Back]

¹⁰ For further information on the ecoACTION plan, please go to: http://www.ec.gc.ca/ecoaction/index_e.html. [Back]

¹¹ Information on the federal Science and Technology Strategy can be found at: http://www.ic.gc.ca/eic/site/ic1.nsf/eng/h_00231.html. [Back]

¹² including $88 M services to be received without charge. [Back]

¹³ While this indicator does not measure the direct achievement of the entire scope of the Strategic Outcome, bird population trends are considered to be reasonably valid measures of the health of the ecosystems of which they are a part. Bird population trends also are directly related to Environment Canada’s responsibilities and programs. Other indicators may be developed in 2010. [Back]

¹⁴ The target does not include those species which are naturally rare and whose populations or ranges have not declined, or species at the edge of their range, as determined from information noted in the Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada (COSEWIC) Status Report. The goal of the Species at Risk program is to recover all listed species. However, it must be recognized that success in achieving this goal depends on many partners, and that success may not be measurable in the short and medium term because biological responses to recovery actions will take time to become evident. [Back]

¹⁵ Each of Environment Canada’s six priority ecosystem initiatives have set out near term objectives related to reducing the impact of harmful substances and improving environmental quality. In order to assess overall performance across the six initiatives, an aggregate index of progress made against the stated objectives of the iniatives has been developed. The reported score is on a scale of 1 to 100, where 100 means that progress toward all stated objectives and expected results met planned levels and all established criteria. [Back]

¹⁶ Verification scores are computed by all major numerical weather prediction centres around the world based on World Meteorological Organization standards and are then shared with other centres. [Back]

¹⁷ http://www.ec.gc.ca/doc/ae-ve/ve-ae_124/tdm-toc_eng.htm [Back]

¹⁸ Similar measures of client satisfaction for other services, including services to other federal departments, are under development. [Back]

¹⁹ Performance indicators for the Strategic Outcome were selected based on the estimated relative impact on Canadians and on the environment. Measurement of outcomes related to chemicals management continues to pose a challenge due to the large number of substances involved. [Back]