Departmental Sustainable Development Strategy

Overview of the Federal Government’s Approach to Sustainable Development

The Federal Sustainable Development Strategy (FSDS) 2013–16 presents the Government of Canada’s sustainable development activities, as required by the Federal Sustainable Development Act (FSDA). In keeping with the objectives of the FSDA to make environmental decision-making more transparent and accountable to Parliament, Transport Canada supports the implementation of the FSDS through the activities found in this supplementary information table.

This Departmental Sustainable Development Strategy presents the planned contributions and expected results for Theme I – Addressing Climate Change and Air Quality, Theme II – Maintaining Water Quality and Availability, Theme III – Protecting Nature and Canadians, and Theme IV – Shrinking the Environmental Footprint – Beginning with Government.

Transport Canada-led target

FSDS Goal	FSDS Performance Indicator	FSDS Target
Goal 3: Water Quality and Water Quantity	Number of marine pollution spills from identified vessels	Target 3.8: Marine Pollution – Releases of Harmful Pollutants Protect the marine environment by an annual 5% reduction in the number of releases and volume of harmful pollutants in the marine environment by vessels identified during pollution patrol from 2013–16.

Themes I to III: Implementation Strategies

Theme I - Addressing Climate Change and Air Quality

Transportation is one of the largest sources of air pollutants and greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) in Canada. In 2013, transportation accounted for 23% of Canada’s total GHG. Transportation is also linked with the emission of air pollutants such as carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxide, sulphur oxide, volatile organic compounds and particulate matter. These pollutants contribute to the formation of smog and poor air quality. Pollutant emissions have fallen significantly, largely due to regulatory changes introduced by the federal government. However, more action is required to ensure this trend continues in the transportation sector.

Transport Canada’s Commitments

In 2016–17, under Theme I - Addressing Climate Change and Air Quality, Transport Canada will contribute to the FSDS through the 13 implementation strategies listed below under Goal 1 – Climate Change and Goal 2 – Air Pollution. These are drawn from Transport Canada’s initiatives under the federal Clean Air Agenda.

The Clean Air Agenda spans 11 departments and agencies managing 60 environmental initiatives over five fiscal years. The centerpiece of this approach is a regulatory agenda with complementary programming to support innovation and clean technologies, Canada’s international participation, and adapting to a changing climate.

Transport Canada is responsible for the following seven initiatives under the Clean Air Agenda:

• Aviation Sector Regulatory Initiative;
• Marine Sector Regulatory Initiative;
• Rail Sector Regulatory Initiative;
• Support for Vehicle Greenhouse Gas Emission Regulations;
• ecoTECHNOLOGY for Vehicles II Program;
• Shore Power Technology for Ports Program;
• Truck Reservation Systems Program.

Transport Canada’s implementation strategies have been organized according to the appropriate Program or Sub-Program in the department’s Program Alignment Architecture. This means that Transport Canada’s Theme I implementation strategies are linked to two Sub-Programs - 2.1.1 - Clean Air Regulatory Framework and Oversight and 2.1.2 - Clean Air Initiatives.

Sub-Program 2.1.1 - Clean Air Regulatory Framework and Oversight

Planned contributions to FSDS	Implementation strategy	Performance indicator	Expected results
FSDS Theme I - Addressing Climate Change and Air Quality Goal 1 - Climate Change: In order to mitigate the effects of climate change, reduce GHG emission levels and adapt to unavoidable impacts. Target 1.1 - Climate Change Mitigation: Relative to 2005 emission levels, reduce Canada’s total GHG emissions 17% by 2020.* Goal 2 - Air Pollution: Minimize threats to air quality so that the air Canadians breathe is clean and supports healthy ecosystems. Target 2.1 - Outdoor Air Pollutants: Improve outdoor air quality by ensuring compliance with new or amended regulated emission limits by 2020 and thus reduce emissions of air pollutants in support of Air Quality Management System (AQMS) objectives. *Transport Canada contributes to this Government of Canada target	1.1.36 - Address GHG emissions from aviation by supporting the International Civil Aviation Organization’s development of new international standards and recommended practices through the development and implementation of new domestic standards, the monitoring of Canada’s voluntary Action Plan in collaboration with the Canadian domestic aviation sector, and through targeted research. 2.1.22 - Address air pollutant emissions from aviation by supporting the International Civil Aviation Organization’s development of new international standards and recommended practices through the development and implementation of new domestic standards, and through targeted research.	Percentage of instruments that are aligned with domestic legislation or international standards.	100% by March 31, 2017

In 2016–17, the program’s expected achievements include:

• Participate in the work at the International Civil Aviation Organization to develop the basket of measures to reduce emissions from international aviation and implement the agreed measures domestically. These measures include:
  • technical measures, including a carbon dioxide standard and non-volatile particulate matter standard;
  • operational measures;
  • alternative fuels; and
  • a market-based measure.
• Develop the annual report under Canada’s Action Plan to reduce GHG Emissions from aviation;
• Continue to progress on initiatives leading to the removal of lead in aviation gasoline;
• Continue to progress on initiatives accelerating the integration of biofuels to aviation;
• Continue to facilitate clean technology development for aviation.

Planned contributions to FSDS	Implementation strategy	Performance indicator	Expected results
FSDS Theme I - Addressing Climate Change and Air Quality Goal 1 - Climate Change: In order to mitigate the effects of climate change, reduce GHG emission levels and adapt to unavoidable impacts. Target 1.1 - Climate Change Mitigation: Relative to 2005 emission levels, reduce Canada’s total GHG emissions 17% by 2020.* Goal 2 - Air Pollution: Minimize threats to air quality so that the air Canadians breathe is clean and supports healthy ecosystems. Target 2.1 - Outdoor Air Pollutants: Improve outdoor air quality by ensuring compliance with new or amended regulated emission limits by 2020 and thus reduce emissions of air pollutants in support of AQMS objectives. *Transport Canada contributes to this Government of Canada target	1.1.34 - Address GHG emissions from maritime shipping by working with the International Maritime Organization in the development of new international standards and recommended practices for marine vessels, as well as through the implementation of new Canadian regulations, and targeted research and development. 2.1.21 - Address air pollutant emissions from maritime shipping by working with the International Maritime Organization in the development of new international standards and recommended practices for marine vessels, as well as through the implementation of new Canadian regulations, and targeted research and development.	Percentage of instruments that are aligned with domestic legislation or international standards. Compliance with vessel emissions regulations. Number of research and development projects that identify potential technological solutions or establish that technologies are not feasible. Number of industry/academia and government collaborations related to technology development.	100% by March 31, 2017   100% by March 31, 2017 90% of projects advanced to a higher Technology Readiness Level or demonstrate that technology is not feasible 70% of projects have collaboration with other relevant stakeholders

In 2016–17, the program’s expected achievements include:

• Continue leadership role at the Marine Environment Protection Committee of the International Maritime Organization (IMO);
• Continue work at the IMO on the development of technical, operational and other measures to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from international maritime shipping;
• Continue work at the IMO to consider the impact on the Arctic of black carbon emissions from international maritime shipping;
• Complete the implementation of a marine vessel activity survey and implementation of a fuel consumption survey aimed at improving estimates of domestic and international marine-related energy use, air pollutants and GHG emissions;
• Continue sustainable transportation research and development by supporting the development and deployment of a number of innovative technologies that support emission reductions from the marine sector; and leveraging research funding with industry and academia to encourage commercialization of these technologies;
• Continue progress on aligning regulatory instruments with current domestic legislation or international standards; and
• Pursue compliance by vessels with emission regulations.

Planned contributions to FSDS	Implementation strategy	Performance indicator	Expected results
FSDS Theme I - Addressing Climate Change and Air Quality Goal 1 - Climate Change: In order to mitigate the effects of climate change, reduce GHG emission levels and adapt to unavoidable impacts. Target 1.1 - Climate Change Mitigation: Relative to 2005 emission levels, reduce Canada’s total GHG emissions 17 % by 2020.* Goal 2 - Air Pollution: Minimize threats to air quality so that the air Canadians breathe is clean and supports healthy ecosystems. Target 2.1 - Outdoor Air Pollutants: Improve outdoor air quality by ensuring compliance with new or amended regulated emission limits by 2020 and thus reduce emissions of air pollutants in support of AQMS objectives. *Transport Canada contributes to this Government of Canada target	1.1.35 - Address GHG emissions from the rail sector through the joint Canada–U.S. locomotive emissions initiative under the Regulatory Cooperation Council, a voluntary agreement with the Canadian rail industry, and research activities to enhance understanding of new technologies to reduce GHG emissions. 2.1.26 - Address air pollutant emissions from the rail sector through locomotive regulations aligned with U.S. standards, and research activities to enhance understanding of new technologies to reduce air pollutant emissions.	Number of voluntary emission reduction agreements developed Number of regulations developed Number of research and development projects that identify potential technological solutions or establish that technologies are not feasible Number of industry/academia and government collaborations related to technology development	One by March 31, 2017   One by March 31, 2017 90% of projects advanced to a higher Technology Readiness Level or demonstrate that technology is not feasible 70% of projects have collaboration with other relevant stakeholders

In 2016–17, the program’s expected achievements include:

• Prepare for the publication of new air pollutant emission regulations for locomotives in the Canada Gazette;
• Prepare for the implementation of the locomotive emissions information system, including the development of training and guidance material;
• Develop the annual report under the Memorandum of Understanding with the Railway Association of Canada;
• Under the framework of the Regulatory Cooperation Council, continue to work with the U.S. on the development of a Canada–U.S. Voluntary Action Plan to reduce GHG emissions from the Canada–U.S. rail sector.

Planned contributions to FSDS	Implementation strategy	Performance indicator	Expected results
FSDS Theme I - Addressing Climate Change and Air Quality Goal 1 - Climate Change: In order to mitigate the effects of climate change, reduce greenhouse gas emission levels and adapt to unavoidable impacts. Target 1.1 - Climate Change Mitigation: Relative to 2005 emission levels, reduce Canada’s total GHG emissions 17% by 2020. * *Transport Canada contributes to this Government of Canada target.	1.1.33 - Develop and implement GHG emission regulations for light-duty vehicles (for model years 2017–25) and heavy-duty vehicles (for model years 2014–18) under the Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999, which will align with regulations in the United States.	Percentage of instruments that are aligned with domestic legislation or international standards Change in transportation emissions intensity as measured in grams per unit of activity (e.g.: tonnes-km, passenger-km).	100% by March 31, 2017 March 31, 2020 – Continuous improvement in emissions intensity. Note: it will only be possible to set an absolute value once the transportation sector’s share of the Government of Canada’s reduce targets are established and published.

In 2016–17, the program’s expected achievements include:

• Continue to develop and enhance Transport Canada’s transportation energy use and emissions model, road vehicle module;
• Continue research and regulatory development work assessing the safety aspects of low-rolling resistance tires, electrical vehicles and alternative-fuel vehicles. This work is aimed at supporting the development of international and Canadian regulations and/or consumer information covering such topics as electrical battery safety, electric vehicle crashworthiness, quiet vehicle safety, tire traction information and alternative fuel safety.

Sub-Program 2.1.2: Clean Air Initiatives

Planned contributions to FSDS	Implementation strategy	Performance indicator	Expected results
FSDS Theme I - Addressing Climate Change and Air Quality Goal 1 - Climate Change: In order to mitigate the effects of climate change, reduce GHG emission levels and adapt to unavoidable impacts. Target 1.1 - Climate Change Mitigation: Relative to 2005 emission levels, reduce Canada’s total GHG emissions 17% by 2020.* Goal 2 - Air Pollution: Minimize threats to air quality so that the air Canadians breathe is clean and supports healthy ecosystems. Target 2.1 - Outdoor Air Pollutants: Improve outdoor air quality by ensuring compliance with new or amended regulated emission limits by 2020 and thus reduce emissions of air pollutants in support of AQMS objectives. *Transport Canada contributes to this Government of Canada target	1.1.26 - Address GHG emissions through testing and evaluations of advanced technologies to support the development of regulations and industry codes and standards in order to ensure that new technologies that reduce GHG emissions can be introduced in Canada in a safe and timely manner. 2.1.6 - Address air pollutant emissions through testing and evaluation of advanced vehicle technologies to support the development of regulations and industry codes and standards to ensure that new technologies that reduce air pollutant emissions can be introduced in Canada in a safe and timely manner.	Number of technologies/ vehicles tested/evaluated	Greater than or equal to five by March 31, 2017

In 2016–17, the program’s expected achievements include:

• Conduct safety and environmental testing and evaluation on identified priority light-duty vehicle and heavy-duty vehicle technologies, including new priority technology areas such as connected vehicles and automated vehicles;
• Compile and disseminate test results to stakeholders (e.g., industry, other governments, North American regulators) to support regulatory development and industry codes and standards for advance vehicle technologies;
• Conduct a review of the program’s technology and environmental scan to ensure continued relevance of program priorities;
• Consult with program stakeholders and governance bodies.

Planned contributions to FSDS	Implementation strategy	Performance indicator	Expected results
FSDS Theme I - Addressing Climate Change and Air Quality Goal 1 - Climate Change: In order to mitigate the effects of climate change, reduce GHG emission levels and adapt to unavoidable impacts. Target 1.1 - Climate Change Mitigation: Relative to 2005 emission levels, reduce Canada’s total GHG emissions 17% by 2020.* Goal 2 - Air Pollution: Minimize threats to air quality so that the air Canadians breathe is clean and supports healthy ecosystems. Target 2.1 - Outdoor Air Pollutants: Improve outdoor air quality by ensuring compliance with new or amended regulated emission limits by 2020 and thus reduce emissions of air pollutants in support of AQMS objectives. *Transport Canada contributes to this Government of Canada target	1.1.22 - Address GHG emissions by supporting the deployment of truck reservation systems at port and terminal facilities to improve efficiency in the movement of trucks into and out of terminal facilities at container ports and reduce truck idling. 2.1.7 - Address air pollutant emissions by supporting the deployment of truck reservation systems at port and terminal facilities to improve efficiency in the movement of trucks into and out of terminal facilities at container ports and reduce truck idling.	Clean transportation technologies implemented by users	10 technologies by March 31, 2017 (Target shared with the Shore Power Technology for Ports Program [implementation strategies 1.1.24 and 2.1.8])

In 2016–17, the programs, expected achievements include:

• Advance a project to implement a common reservation system that will serve to improve trucking logistics and fuel efficiency at Port Metro Vancouver. This includes advancing work related to the concept of operations, system architecture, and infrastructure specifications and deployment/installation.

Planned contributions to FSDS	Implementation strategy	Performance indicator	Expected results
FSDS Theme I - Addressing Climate Change and Air Quality Goal 1 - Climate Change: In order to mitigate the effects of climate change, reduce GHG emission levels and adapt to unavoidable impacts. Target 1.1 - Climate Change Mitigation: Relative to 2005 emission levels, reduce Canada’s total GHG emissions 17% by 2020.* Goal 2 - Air Pollution: Minimize threats to air quality so that the air Canadians breathe is clean and supports healthy ecosystems. Target 2.1 - Outdoor Air Pollutants: Improve outdoor air quality by ensuring compliance with new or amended regulated emission limits by 2020 and thus reduce emissions of air pollutants in support of AQMS objectives. *Transport Canada contributes to this Government of Canada target	1.1.24 - Address GHG emissions from the marine sector by funding the installation of marine shore power facilities at Canadian ports. 2.1.8 - Address air pollutant emissions from the marine sector by funding the installation of marine shore power facilities at Canadian ports.	Clean transportation technologies implemented by users.	10 technologies by March 31, 2017 (Target shared with the Truck Reservation System Program for Ports Program [implementation strategies 1.1.22 and 2.1.7])

In 2016–17, the program’s expected achievements include:

• Continue ongoing management of four shore power projects at Canadian ports;
• Roll-up project results and prepare the program’s final report.

Theme II - Maintaining Water Quality and Availability

Marine shipping is critical to Canada’s economy and the movement of goods by sea is becoming increasingly important as trade with Asia and other international trading partners continues to grow. A dominant feature of marine transportation is its international dimension, which shapes the policy, regulatory and competitive environments. These conditions underpin the need for largely international governance of marine issues, in marine safety and environmental issues in particular, which is done mainly through the International Maritime Organization.

The movement of goods by sea carries with it a range of possible environmental consequences for the marine environment and water quality. For example, accidental oil spills in the marine environment are prominent in the public eye when they occur, and have immediate and obvious negative consequences for the environment and the health of local communities. Water-borne spills of hazardous and noxious substances can also cause serious damage to human health and the environment.

Transport Canada develops and administers policies, regulations and programs to protect the marine environment, which aim to prevent ship source pollution from oil, chemicals, sewage, and garbage, reduce the impact on the environment of marine pollution incidents in Canadian waters, and protect the safety of the general public.

Transport Canada’s Commitments

Under Theme II - Maintaining Water Quality and Availability, Transport Canada contributes to the Federal Sustainable Development Strategy through Goal 3: Water Quality and Quantity - Protect and enhance water so that it is clean, safe and secure for all Canadians and supports healthy ecosystems, details of which can be found in the tables below.

Transport Canada’s implementation strategies have been organized according to the appropriate Sub-program in the department’s Program Alignment Architecture. This means that Transport Canada’s Theme II implementation strategies are linked to two different Sub-programs (2.2.1 - Clean Water Regulatory Framework and 2.2.2 - Clean Water Regulatory Oversight).

Sub-Program 2.2.1: Clean Water Regulatory Framework

Planned contributions to FSDS	Implementation strategy	Performance indicator	Expected results
Theme II - Maintaining Water Quality and Availability Goal 3 - Water Quality and Water Quantity: Protect and enhance water so that it is clean, safe and secure for all Canadians and supports healthy ecosystems. Target 3.8 - Marine Pollution - Releases of Harmful Pollutants: Protect the marine environment by an annual 5% reduction in the number of releases of harmful pollutants in the marine environment by vessels identified during pollution patrol from 2013–16.	3.8.1 - Set the legal and regulatory frameworks through domestic legislation and international conventions that govern the protection of the marine environment from pollution, the introduction of invasive species and the environmental impact of pollution incidents, and advance Canadian positions on reducing and managing global marine pollution from ships.	Percentage of instruments that are aligned with domestic legislation and/or adopted international standards. Proposal of an update to the Vessel Pollution and Dangerous Chemical Regulations to reflect new international standards.	95% by March 31, 2017 Publication of proposed regulations in the Canada Gazette, Part I, by March 31, 2017

In 2016–17, the program’s expected achievements include:

• Progress on aligning regulatory instruments with current domestic legislation or international standards;
• Advance a proposal to update the Vessel Pollution and Dangerous Chemicals Regulations.

Sub-Program 2.2.2 - Clean Water Regulatory Oversight

Planned contributions to FSDS	Implementation strategy	Performance indicator	Expected results
Theme II - Maintaining Water Quality and Availability Goal 3 - Water Quality and Water Quantity: Protect and enhance water so that it is clean, safe and secure for all Canadians and supports healthy ecosystems. Target 3.8 - Marine Pollution – Releases of Harmful Pollutants: Protect the marine environment by an annual 5% reduction in the number of releases of harmful pollutants in the marine environment by vessels identified during pollution patrol from 2013–16.	3.8.2 - Contribute to reducing pollution from vessels by monitoring compliance of marine transportation firms with Canadian legislation, such as the Canada Shipping Act, 2001, through the National Aerial Surveillance Program, inspections, audits, monitoring and enforcement.	Compliance with Vessel Pollution and Dangerous Chemicals Regulations.	By March 31, 2017, 100% compliance is observed in targeted Canadian vessels and foreign vessels in Canada inspected under the two international agreements on Port State Control (inspections of foreign ships) to which Canada is party; one of the East Coast and other for the West Coast.

In 2016–17, the program’s expected achievements include:

• Maintain high level of compliance by vessels with the Vessel Pollution and Dangerous Chemicals Regulations; and
• Conduct aerial surveillance patrols over Canadian Waters that have the highest volume of commercial traffic in order to maximize pollution prevention activities.

Planned contributions to FSDS	Implementation strategy	Performance indicator	Expected results
Theme II - Maintaining Water Quality and Availability Goal 3 - Water Quality and Water Quantity: Protect and enhance water so that it is clean, safe and secure for all Canadians and supports healthy ecosystems. Target 3.8 - Marine Pollution – Releases of Harmful Pollutants: Protect the marine environment by an annual 5% reduction in the number of releases of harmful pollutants in the marine environment by vessels identified during pollution patrol from 2013–16.	3.8.3. Enhancing marine safety, including national ship-source oil spill preparedness and response regime. This includes increased tanker inspections and aerial surveillance, and the public port designation of Kitimat to enhance vessel traffic control.	Percentage of instruments that are aligned with domestic legislation and/or adopted international standards Percentage of foreign-flagged tankers that are inspected Increased aerial surveillance over Canadian waters	95% by March 31, 2017   100% by March 31, 2017 3,400 hours by March 31, 2018

In 2016–17, the program’s expected achievements include:

• Continue progress on aligning regulatory instruments with current domestic legislation or international standards;
• Continue progress on the extent of foreign-flagged tankers that are inspected; and
• Increase aerial surveillance patrols over Canadian Waters that have the highest volume of commercial traffic in order to maximize pollution prevention activities.

Theme III – Protecting Nature and Canadians

Canada has one of the longest navigable coastlines in the world, from the St. Lawrence Seaway and Great Lakes to the Atlantic, Arctic and Pacific oceans. A significant increase in worldwide shipping traffic and the corresponding amount of ballast water discharged by these vessels has resulted in an increase in alien species introductions.

Commercial shipping cannot operate without ballast water, which provides balance and stability to ships. Water is pumped into the ballast tanks when a vessel is departing a port of origin and released when it takes on cargo at another port. Over the past 30 years, there has been growing international recognition of potential problems associated with the discharge of ships’ ballast water.

The introduction and spread of alien invasive species is a serious problem that has ecological, economic, health and environmental impacts, including loss of native biological diversity. Species are considered alien if they are not native to a given ecosystem. Alien species are considered to be invasive when their introduction causes, or is likely to cause, harm to the environment, the economy or to human health.

Ballast water is important for the safety and stability of ships, but contains aquatic plants and animals that can introduce potentially invasive species, like the zebra mussel. In 2006, Canada implemented regulations to address this issue which will be strengthened following Canada’s recent ratification of the International Convention for the Control and Management of Ships’ Ballast Water and Sediments, 2004. In 2016–17, TC will continue to work closely with the United States, international partners, and stakeholders to ensure that ballast water regulations remain fair, practicable, and environmentally protective, and towards implementing the Convention in Canadian regulations.

For more information on the Canadian Ballast Water Program, please visit Transport Canada’s website at www.tc.gc.ca/eng/marinesafety/oep-environment-ballastwater-menu-449.htm.

Transport Canada’s Commitment

Under Theme III - Protecting Nature and Canadians, Transport Canada contributes to the Federal Sustainable Development Strategy through Goal 4 - Conserving and Restoring Ecosystems, Wildlife and Habitat, and Protecting Canadians: Resilient ecosystems with healthy wildlife populations so Canadians can enjoy benefits from natural spaces, resources and ecological services for generations to come. Details on specific goals can be found in the summary tables below.

Transport Canada’s implementation strategies have been organized according to the appropriate Program and Sub-program in the department’s Program Alignment Architecture. This means that Transport Canada’s Theme III implementation strategies are linked to two different Sub-programs (2.2.1 - Clean Water Regulatory Framework and 2.2.2 - Clean Water Regulatory Oversight), and two Programs (2.3 - Environmental Stewardship of Transportation and 3.5 - Transportation of Dangerous Goods).

Sub-Program 2.2.1: Clean Water Regulatory Framework

Planned contributions to FSDS	Implementation strategy	Performance indicator	Expected results
Theme III - Protecting Nature and Canadians Goal 4 - Conserving and Restoring Ecosystems, Wildlife and Habitat, and Protecting Canadians: Resilient ecosystems with healthy wildlife populations so Canadians can enjoy benefits from natural spaces, resources and ecological services for generations to come. Target 4.6 - Invasive Alien Species: By 2020, pathways of invasive alien species introductions are identified, and risk-based intervention or management plans are in place for priority pathways and species.	4.6.6 - Implement the vessel-related invasive species provisions of the 2012 Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement through policy, regulations, research and enforcement actions.	Proposal of an update to the Ballast Water Control and Management Regulations to fully implement the ballast water convention.	Publication of proposed regulations in the Canada Gazette, Part I, by March 31, 2017.

In 2016–17, the program’s expected achievements include:

• Advance a proposal to update Ballast Water Control and Management Regulations to fully implement the ballast water convention; and
• Continue to cooperate with United States counterparts on inspections in accordance with the vessel-related invasive species provisions of Annex V of the 2012 Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement. Nationally, Transport Canada will also inspect vessels as necessary and enforce compliance with Canadian regulations.

Sub-Program 2.2.2: Clean Water Regulatory Oversight

Planned contributions to FSDS	Implementation strategy	Performance indicator	Expected results
Theme III - Protecting Nature and Canadians Goal 4 - Conserving and Restoring Ecosystems, Wildlife and Habitat, and Protecting Canadians: Resilient ecosystems with healthy wildlife populations so Canadians can enjoy benefits from natural spaces, resources and ecological services for generations to come. Target 4.6 - Invasive Alien Species: By 2020, pathways of invasive alien species introductions are identified, and risk-based intervention or management plans are in place for priority pathways and species.	4.6.5 - Implement conventions and guidelines of the International Maritime Organization relating to reducing the risk of aquatic species invasions into domestic regulations.	Percentage of vessels in compliance with Ballast Water Control and Management Regulations reporting rules. Compliance with the Ballast Water Control and Management Regulations ballast water management standards. Canadian compliance with obligations for invasive species under 2012 Great Lakes Quality Agreement	100% by March 31, 2017     By March 31, 2017, 100% compliance is observed in targeted vessels inspected at ports along the East and West Coasts / By March 31, 2017, 100% compliance is observed in all vessels destined to ports in the St. Lawrence Seaway and the Great Lakes. 95% by March 31, 2017

In 2016–17, the program’s expected achievements include:

• Maintain high-level of compliance by vessels with the Ballast Water Control and Management Regulations;
• Meet obligations for invasive species under 2012 Great Lakes Quality Agreement; and
• Continue policy, regulatory, and research efforts in close cooperation with the United States and partners at the International Maritime Organization in working towards implementing the Convention in Canadian regulations, while ensuring that ballast water regulations remain fair, practicable, and environmentally protective.

Planned contributions to FSDS	Implementation strategy	Performance indicator	Expected results
Goal 4 - Conserving and Restoring Ecosystems, Wildlife and Habitat, and Protecting Canadians: Resilient ecosystems with healthy wildlife populations so Canadians can enjoy benefits from natural spaces, resources and ecological services for generations to come. Target 4.6 - Invasive Alien Species: By 2020, pathways of invasive alien species introductions are identified, and risk-based intervention or management plans are in place for priority pathways and species.	4.6.9 - Cooperate with U.S. and international regulators to inspect vessels to ensure compliance with Canadian regulations.	Coordination meetings held under Annex V of Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement.	1 meeting held and list of issues discussed

In 2016–17, the program’s expected achievements include:

• Meet obligations for cooperation with United States agencies under Annex 5 to the 2012 Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement; and
• Continue to cooperate with United States counterparts on inspections in accordance with the vessel-related invasive species provisions of Annex V of the 2012 Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement. Nationally, Transport Canada will also inspect vessels as necessary and enforce compliance with Canadian regulations.

Sub-Program 2.3: Environmental Stewardship of Transportation

Planned contributions to FSDS	Implementation strategy	Performance indicator	Expected results
Theme III - Protecting Nature and Canadians Goal 4 - Conserving and Restoring Ecosystems, Wildlife and Habitat, and Protecting Canadians: Resilient ecosystems with healthy wildlife populations so Canadians can enjoy benefits from natural spaces, resources and ecological services for generations to come. Target 4.8 - Chemicals Management: Reduce risks to Canadians and impacts on the environment and human health posed by releases of harmful substances.	4.8.1 - Implement the Federal Contaminated Sites Action Plan and complete remediation and risk management activities at known high-priority federal contaminated sites.	Transport Canada will report on its contaminated sites effort through the Federal Contaminated Sites Action Plan annual reports that can be found at www.federalcontaminatedsites.gc.ca/default.asp?lang=En&n=B15E990A-1.	Not applicable

Program 3.5: Transportation of Dangerous Goods

Planned contributions to FSDS	Implementation strategy	Performance indicator	Expected results
Theme III - Protecting Nature and Canadians Goal 4 - Conserving and Restoring Ecosystems, Wildlife and Habitat, and Protecting Canadians: Resilient ecosystems with healthy wildlife populations so Canadians can enjoy benefits from natural spaces, resources and ecological services for generations to come. Target 4.7 - Environmental Disasters, Incidents and Emergencies: Environmental disasters, incidents and emergencies are prevented or their impacts mitigated.	4.7.4 - In accordance with mandated responsibilities, provide environmental and/or other information to reduce the risk of, and advice in response to, the occurrence of events such as polluting incidents, wildlife disease events or severe weather and other significant hydro-meteorological events as applicable.	Number of reportable releases of dangerous goods per trillion dollars of Canadian gross domestic product (five-year average, improvement = decrease)	193.5 by March 31, 2017

In 2016–17, the program’s expected achievements include:

• Continue efforts to reduce reportable releases of dangerous goods per trillion dollars of gross domestic product, based on accident data and nominal current dollar or gross domestic product of 2016.

Theme IV: Targets and Implementation Strategies

Goal 6: Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Emissions and Energy

Target 6.1: GHG Emissions Reduction

The Government of Canada will reduce GHG emissions from its buildings and fleets by 17% below 2005 levels by 2020.

Departmental Target

21% below 2005 by 2020

Link to department’s Program Alignment Architecture

Strategic Outcome 2: A Clean Transportation System; Program 2.3: Environmental Stewardship of Transportation

Performance Measurement

Expected result

Reduce the carbon footprint and energy consumption of federal operations.

Performance indicator	Targeted performance level
Updated GHG reduction implementation plan in place by March 31, 2015.	Yes (Completed: March 31, 2015)
GHG emissions (kt CO2 equivalent) in fiscal year 2005–06.	21.37 kt
GHG emissions (kt CO2 equivalent) in fiscal year 2016−17.	15.5 kt
Renewable power emission credits applied in 2016–17 (kt CO2 equivalent).	0.05 kt
Percentage change in GHG emissions from fiscal year 2005–06 to fiscal year 2016−17, inclusive of renewable power emission credits, if applicable.	27.5% decrease
Adjustments made to base year GHG emissions.	Changes have been made as a result of the removal of previously reported marine vessels that are owned by the Department but not in the care or operation of the Department.

Goal 7: Waste and Asset Management

Target 7.1: Real Property Environmental Performance

As of April 1, 2014, and pursuant to departmental Real Property Sustainability Frameworks, an industry-recognized level of high environmental performance will be achieved in Government of Canada real property projects and operations.

Link to Department’s Program Alignment Architecture

Strategic Outcome 2: A Clean Transportation System; Program 2.3: Environmental Stewardship of Transportation

Performance Measurement

Expected result

An industry-recognized level of high environmental performance will be achieved in Government of Canada real property projects and operations.

Performance indicator	Targeted performance level
A Real Property Sustainability Framework in place to improve the management of energy, waste and water in departmental real property assets by March 31, 2015.	Yes (Completed: March 31, 2015)
Total number of existing Crown-owned buildings (over 1000 m2) and new lease or lease renewal projects (over 1000 m2) where the Crown is the major lessee, assessed for environmental performance using an industry recognized assessment tool, and associated floor space (m2).	0 Crown-owned buildings 0 m2
	0 new lease or lease renewal projects 0 m2
	Planned assessment tool to be used: BOMA BESt
Total number of existing Crown-owned buildings, new construction, build-to-lease and major renovation projects achieving an industry-recognized level of high environmental performance and associated floor space (m2).	0 Crown-owned buildings 0 m2
	0 new construction projects 0 m2
	0 build-to-lease projects 0 m2
	0 major renovation projects 0 m2
	Planned environmental performance level to be achieved: LEED Silver
Number of fit-up and refit projects achieving an industry-recognized level of high environmental performance.	0 fit-up and refit projects 0 m2
	Planned environmental performance level to be achieved: LEED Silver

Implementation strategy element or best practice	Targeted performance level
7.1.1.1. Achieve a level of performance that meets or exceeds the custodian's current commitment(s) to sustainable buildings using industry-recognized assessment and verification tool(s).	Seeking to reach “Achieved” status
7.1.1.7. Develop an approach to training for building operators in Crown-owned buildings.	Seeking to reach “Achieved” status

Target 7.2: Green Procurement

As of April 1, 2014, the Government of Canada will continue to take action to embed environmental considerations into public procurement, in accordance with the federal Policy on Green Procurement.

Link to department’s Program Alignment Architecture

Strategic Outcome 2: A Clean Transportation System; Program 2.3: Environmental Stewardship of Transportation

Performance Measurement

Expected result

Environmentally responsible acquisition, use and disposal of goods and services.

Performance indicator	Targeted performance level
Departmental approach to further the implementation of the Policy on Green Procurement in place as of April 1, 2014.	Yes (Completed: April 1, 2014)
Number and percentage of procurement and/or materiel management specialists who have completed the Canada School of Public Service Green Procurement course (C215) or equivalent in fiscal year 2016–17.	24 92%
Number and percentage of managers and functional heads of procurement and materiel whose performance evaluation includes support and contribution toward green procurement in fiscal year 2016–17.	2 100%

Departmental green procurement target

By March 31, 2017, 93% of desktop computing equipment (personal computers and laptops/notebooks) purchases will include criteria to reduce the environmental impact associated with the production, acquisition, use and/or disposal of the equipment.

Performance indicator	Targeted performance level
Dollar value of desktop computing equipment (personal computers and laptops/notebooks) purchases that meet the target objective relative to the total dollar value of all purchases for desktop computing equipment in the year in question.	$1,163,430 (93%)
Annual amount spent on desktop computing equipment. Baseline: As of 2012–13, 90% of desktop computing equipment purchases included criteria to reduce the environmental impact associated with the production, acquisition, use and/or disposal of the equipment.	$1,251,000

Departmental green procurement target

By March 31, 2017, 80% of annual clothing and textile purchases will include criteria to reduce the environmental impact associated with the production, acquisition, use and/or disposal of the material.

Performance indicator	Targeted performance level
Dollar value of clothing and textiles purchased that meet the target objective relative to the total dollar value of all clothing and textile purchases in the year in question.	$40,000 (80%)
Annual amount spent on clothing and textiles. Baseline: As of 2013–14, 0% of annual clothing and textile purchases included criteria to reduce the environmental impact associated with the production, acquisition, use and/or disposal of the material.	$50,000

Departmental green procurement target

By March 31, 2017, 99% of copy paper purchases will contain a minimum of 30% recycled content and be certified to a recognized environmental standard to reduce the environmental impact of its production.

Performance indicator	Targeted performance level
Dollar value of copy paper purchases that meet the target objective relative to the total dollar value of all copy paper purchases in the year in question.	$180,260 (99%)
Annual amount spent on copy paper. Baseline: As of 2012–13, 93% of copy paper purchases contained a minimum of 30% recycled content and had Ecologo certification.	$181,428

Implementation strategy element or best practice	Targeted performance level
7.2.1.5. Leverage common-use procurement instruments where available and feasible.	Seeking to reach “Achieved” status
Best Practice 7.2.3. Train acquisition cardholders on green procurement.	Seeking to reach “Achieved” status

Target 7.3: Sustainable Workplace Operations

As of April 1, 2015, the Government of Canada will update and adopt policies and practices to improve the sustainability of its workplace operations.

Link to department’s Program Alignment Architecture

Strategic Outcome 2: A Clean Transportation System; Program 2.3: Environmental Stewardship of Transportation

Performance Measurement

Expected result

Departmental workplace operations have a reduced environmental impact.

Performance indicator	Targeted performance level
An approach to maintain or improve the sustainability of the departmental workplace in place by March 31, 2015.	Yes (Completed: March 31, 2015)

Implementation strategy element or best practice	Targeted performance level
7.3.1.1. Engage employees in greening government operations practices.	Seeking to reach “Achieved” status
7.3.1.2. Integrate environmental considerations into corporate policies, processes and practices in accordance with departmental refresh cycles.	Seeking to reach “Achieved” status
7.3.1.3. Maintain or improve existing approaches to sustainable workplace practices (i.e., printer ratios, paper usage and green meetings).	Seeking to reach “Achieved” status
7.3.1.6. Dispose of e-waste in an environmentally sound and secure manner.	Seeking to reach “Achieved” status

Goal 8: Water Management

Target 8.1: Water Management

As of April 1, 2014, the Government of Canada will take further action to improve water management within its real property portfolio.

Link to Department’s Program Alignment Architecture

Strategic Outcome 2: A Clean Transportation System; Program 2.3: Environmental Stewardship of Transportation

Performance Measurement

Expected result

Water is managed sustainably in Government of Canada real property operations.

Performance indicator	Targeted performance level
Approach to improving water management included in Real Property Sustainability Framework by March 31, 2015.	Yes (Completed: March 31, 2015)
Amount and percentage of floor space in buildings over 1000 m2 that includes water metering in fiscal year 2016–17 (where feasible).	20,955.3 m2 existing Crown-owned 46%
	0 m2 new Crown built-to-lease 0%
	0 m2 major renovations 0%
	0 m2 leases 0%

Implementation strategy element or best practice	Targeted performance level
8.1.1.4. Meter the water usage in new projects.	Seeking to reach “Achieved” status

Sustainable Development Management System

Transport Canada’s Departmental Sustainable Development Strategy provides information on the following aspects:

• Sustainable development and transportation;
• What this means for Transport Canada; and
• Departmental decision-making and sustainable development.

Sustainable development and transportation

Transportation takes place within a complex web of human and physical interactions and conditions. Trends in the environment, the economy and society affect the nature and scale of transportation activities, the impacts of those activities and our responses to those impacts. The nature and volume of trade drives the demand for freight transportation. Similarly, the size of the population, its habits and income levels, the cost of energy and land use patterns affect passenger travel.

Transportation is fundamental to Canada’s economic prosperity and Canadians’ quality of life. To enhance our quality of life, we need to ensure that our system is safe, secure and environmentally responsible. To maintain and enhance competitiveness, we must ensure that our transportation system is efficient and able to adapt to new challenges as they arise.

To preserve and strengthen Canada’s transportation system, transportation policy must provide a framework that addresses the three elements of sustainable transportation: social, economic and environmental. It must also give carriers the opportunity to adapt, innovate, compete and serve shippers and travellers in a way that takes into account each of these elements. The fundamental policy challenge is to find the right balance among these three elements.

Canada’s size and dependence on international trade make transportation very important to Canadians. Transportation — by land, water and air — links Canadians to each other and Canada to the world. Transportation has a wide-range of impacts on the economy, society and the environment. While many of these impacts are positive (e.g., supporting economic growth, moving people to their destinations and goods to markets, providing jobs, supporting mobility and enabling human contact), there are also negative impacts that need to be considered (e.g., emissions, materials and energy resource use, the possibility of spills and leaks, and impacts on land use).

What this means for Transport Canada

Transport Canada is responsible for the Government of Canada’s transportation policies and programs. While not directly responsible for all aspects or modes of transportation, the Department plays a leadership role to ensure that all parts of the transportation system work together effectively. Transport Canada leads Canada’s efforts in addressing environmental issues from the rail, marine and aviation sectors. For example, under the legislative authority of the Railway Safety Act, the Canada Shipping Act, 2001 and the Aeronautics Act, Transport Canada contributes to reducing air emissions from transportation by creating and implementing regulatory regimes.

Our vision is a transportation system in Canada that is recognized worldwide as safe and secure, efficient and environmentally responsible.

The Department’s vision of a sustainable transportation system is one that integrates and balances social, economic and environmental objectives. This vision is guided by the following principles:

• the highest possible safety and security of life and property, guided by performance-based standards and regulations when necessary;
• the efficient movement of people and goods to support economic prosperity and a sustainable quality of life, based on competitive markets and targeted use of regulation and government funding; and
• respect for the environmental legacy of future generations of Canadians, guided by environmental assessment and planning processes in transportation decisions and selective use of regulation and government funding.

Transport Canada’s decision-making and sustainable development

In line with the federal approach, Transport Canada’s sustainable development planning and reporting is linked with the federal government’s core expenditure planning and reporting system under the Federal Sustainable Development Strategy. This integration occurs through two primary planning and reporting vehicles:

• Report on Plans and Priorities: Objectives and plans that contribute to the Federal Sustainable Development Strategy are highlighted in Transport Canada’s annual Reports on Plans and Priorities.
• Departmental Performance Report: Transport Canada reports progress against its Federal Sustainable Development Strategy implementation strategies in its annual Departmental Performance Reports.

The following are some other key examples of how Transport Canada is integrating sustainable development into its decision-making:

• Strategic Environmental Assessment
• Transport Canada’s National Environmental Management System

Strategic Environmental Assessment

In 2016–17, Transport Canada will consider the environmental effects of initiatives subject to the Cabinet Directive on the Environmental Assessment of Policy, Plan and Program Proposals, as part of its decision-making processes. Through the strategic environmental assessment process, the effects of departmental/agency proposals on the 2013–16 FSDS goals and targets will be assessed.

Strategic Environmental Assessment evaluates the environmental effects of a proposed policy, plan or program and its alternatives, and informs decision-making through a careful analysis of environmental risks and opportunities.

As required by the Guidelines for Implementing the Cabinet Directive on the Environmental Assessment of Policy, Plan and Program Proposals, all departments are required to consider FSDS goals and targets when undertaking Strategic Environmental Assessments and report on the results of their Strategic Environmental Assessments in their Departmental Performance Reports.

The Strategic Environmental Assessment guidelines are designed to improve the transparency of environmental decision-making in the following ways:

• Departments and agencies describe the impact of their initiatives on the FSDS goals and targets in their Strategic Environmental Assessment public statements; and
• Departments and agencies report on the extent and results of their Strategic Environmental Assessment in their year-end performance report, including how initiatives are expected to affect progress toward FSDS goals and targets.

During the first FSDS period (2010–13), in order to reflect the above-mentioned changes to the guidelines, Transport Canada updated its internal Strategic Environmental Assessment process and supporting materials, including the departmental Strategic Environmental Assessment Policy Statement, guidance and training documents, tools, website and correspondence products. All these updates were completed by March 2011.

On April 1, 2013, Transport Canada introduced a new internal tool, called the Sustainable Transportation Assessment Tool, which replaces the former Strategic Environmental Assessment preliminary scan. Transport Canada now requires all potential policies, plans or programs to consider possible effects on the economy and society, in addition to the environment. The Sustainable Transportation Assessment Tool also includes specific questions to assess possible impacts on Federal Sustainable Development Strategy goals and targets.

By asking these kinds of questions early in the design and development of proposals, it is anticipated that risks and opportunities will be better identified and managed, potential impacts across the Department’s strategic outcomes will be considered, and economic, social and environmental considerations will be better integrated into departmental decision-making.

Transport Canada publishes the results of its Strategic Environmental Assessments when an initiative is announced or approved, demonstrating that environmental factors are integrated into the decision-making process.

Transport Canada will also continue to report on the following activities and performance measures in the Departmental Sustainable Development Strategy:

• The number of approved proposals submitted by Transport Canada to Cabinet or Treasury Board that are subject to departmental Strategic Environmental Assessment requirements (Memorandum to Cabinet, Treasury Board Submissions and Regulatory Amendments);
• The number of proposals for which a detailed Strategic Environmental Assessment was completed and how it contributed towards Federal Sustainable Development goals and targets; and
• Transport Canada’s overall Strategic Environmental Assessment compliance (%).

Transport Canada will continue to ensure that its decision-making process includes consideration of the FSDS goals and targets through the Strategic Environmental Assessment process. A Strategic Environmental Assessment for policy, plan or program proposals includes an analysis of the impacts of the given proposal on the environment, including on the Federal Sustainable Development Strategy goals and targets. The results of Transport Canada’s detailed assessment are made public when an initiative is announced. The purpose of the public statement is to demonstrate that the environmental effects, including the impacts on achieving the Federal Sustainable Development Strategy goals and targets, of the approved policy, plan or program have been appropriately considered during proposal development and decision-making.