Performance Report on Environment Canada's 2012-2013 Departmental Sustainable Development Strategy

Environment Canada’s Performance Achievements for 2012–2013 Regarding FSDS Implementation Strategies and Clean Air Agenda Programming

• Sub-Program 3.1.1 Substance Management
• Sub-Program 3.1.2 Waste Management
• Sub-Program 3.1.3 Environment Emergencies
• Sub-Program 3.1.4 Contaminated Sites
• Sub-Program 3.2.1 Climate Change and Clean Air Regulatory Program
• Sub-Program 3.2.2 International Climate Change and Clean Air Partnerships
• Program 3.3 Compliance Promotion and Enforcement – Pollution
• Additional Information

Sub-Program 3.1.1 Substances Management

Performance Analysis:

In 2012–2013, good progress was made towards the goal of addressing 1,500 remaining priority existing substances, with 6 draft assessments representing 25 substances, and 3 final assessments representing 57 substances published on the Chemicals Substances website. In addition, assessment of all 504 new substances for which EC has been notified by industry of their intent to manufacture or import has been met.

Furthermore, proposed risk management instruments were published for 9 of 9 substances listed on Schedule 1 within required timelines. Final risk management instruments were published for 13 of the 15 substances listed on Schedule 1 within the required timelines.

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Performance Analysis:

In 2012–2013, Canada continued to be actively engaged in Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) activities and meetings under the Environment, Health and Safety Programme, particularly the Joint Meeting on Chemicals and the Working Party on Chemicals, Pesticides and Biotechnology. The work carried out by the OECD and member countries contributes directly to the delivery of Canada’s Chemicals Management Plan, in particular through leveraging the work for the assessment of chemicals and domestic priority setting.

Canada also participated in the work and meetings of the Working Party on Resource Productivity and Wastes. This work led to the publication of  three OECD publications in 2012:

1. the report on Greenhouse Gas Emissions and the Potential for Mitigation From Materials Management Within OECD Countries, which highlights the importance of using a life-cycle approach to analyze GHG mitigation options from materials management;
2. Sustainable Materials Management – Making Better Use of Resources, which outlines a series of policy principles, examines how to set and use targets, and explores various policy instruments for sustainable materials management (SMM); and
3. Case Study on Critical Metals in Mobile Phones, which develops policy recommendations for OECD member countries to improve the SMM of critical metals. Environment Canada
   • brought Canadian expertise to an international OECD expert workshop on the subject of nanomaterials in the waste stream and subsequent discussion paper; and
   • actively contributed in the project and report on transboundary flows of e-waste, on the Commission on Environmental Cooperation (CEC) Secretariat-led report on spent-lead acid batteries and the preparation of training materials for small and medium-sized enterprises involved in recycling and refurbishing of e-waste.

EC delivered the Notice and Consent Electronic Data Exchange project in 2012, which allowed environmental agencies in Canada, Mexico and the United States to begin sharing export requests and consent documents for the movement of hazardous waste and hazardous recyclable material electronically.

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Performance Analysis:

In 2012–2013, in consultation with provincial/territorial governments and other relevant organizations, EC updated the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) and Product Stewardship Inventory of Programs in September 2012.

The Department joined the newly formed Waste Management Task Group under the Canadian Council of Ministers of the Environment (CCME), which has been mandated to establish a framework for CCME’s waste management work including developing a Canada-wide strategy for waste reduction. EC also chaired a CCME task group and delivered an options report on the environmental management of end-of-life vehicles.

In March 2013, the Department released the comprehensive Technical Document on Municipal Solid Waste Organics Processing to provide science-based, objective and user-friendly information on the various aspects of organics management. The document drew on lessons learned and expert knowledge of professionals, practitioners and academics in the field of organics management across North America.

In addition, work continued to identify and assess the best approach to address the end-of-life management of mercury-containing lamps. Upon identification of the best path forward, timelines for implementation would be established.

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Performance Analysis:

A national survey of dental facilities was carried out in 2012 to evaluate the success of the P2 Notice for dental amalgam, as measured by the use of dental amalgam separators and disposal practices. The survey indicated that this P2 Planning Notice achieved the Canada-wide Standard on Mercury for Dental Amalgam Waste objective of a 95percent national reduction of mercury releases to the environment, from a base year of 2000.

The risk management objective of reducing releases of mercury to the environment through participation by vehicle manufacturers and steel mills in a national mercury switch management program in Canada has been achieved.  The annual targets and capture rates of mercury switches set by the vehicle manufacturers have been achieved for the most part. However, the ultimate goal of achieving a capture rate of 90 percent within the first 4 years of the Program, as listed in the Notice, has not been achieved, as reported in the Declarations of Implementation. The Final Report on the Pollution Prevention Planning Notice in Respect to Mercury Releases from Mercury Switches in End-of-Life Vehicles Processed by Steel Mills is expected to be published in 2013.

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Sub-Program 3.1.2 Waste Management

Performance Analysis:

This Implementation Strategy is no longer applicable.

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Performance Analysis:

EC published the Wastewater Systems Effluent Regulations in the Canada Gazette, Part II, in 2012 and is implementing the Regulations to achieve secondary wastewater treatment across the country. The Department has put in place an electronic wastewater regulatory reporting system to streamline administration of the Regulations and will continue to work with provinces to establish bilateral agreements to avoid duplication wherever possible.

In 2012–2013, EC conducted field surveys of wastewater systems (lagoons) in the Far North and continued on preparing a report on the treatment performance of the monitored systems. The report is expected to be completed in 2013–2014. EC has also engaged stakeholders on standards and a regulatory regime for the North and intends to continue to work towards the development of a wastewater regime that sets appropriate standards for the climatic conditions found in the North.

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Performance Analysis:

In 2012–2013, Canada was successful in advancing its positions at both the Meeting of the Parties of the London Protocol and at the Scientific Groups meeting of the London Protocol and Convention. Meeting objectives for Canada were achieved for 60 percent of issues, the remaining 40 percent were partially achieved, and work is ongoing. Canada set positions on 5 main issues: ocean fertilization regulation; spoilt cargo management; rules for exporting CO₂ to sub-seabed geological formations for storage; guidance on creating action levels for assessing fish waste; and seeking the Chairmanship of the Meeting.

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Performance Analysis:

The issuing of permits under the Disposal at Sea Program met the service standard overall, as 93 percent of permits were issued within 120 days of receipt of the application.

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Performance Analysis:

Environment Canada did provide advice and support on requests from Transport Canada.

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Performance Analysis:

Implementation Strategy completed.

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Performance Analysis:

In 2012–2013, EC provided science-based expert advice to reduce the environmental effects of environmentally significant pollution incidents as per its legislative mandate under the Fisheries Act and CEPA 1999. Activities included managing a 24/7 National Environmental Emergency Centre (NEEC). Senior managers received 57 emergency advisories on incidents of a significant nature; EC was notified of approximately 15 to 25 spills or releases per day in 2012–2013 and provided, through the NEEC, scientific and technical advice to inform adequate response and recovery decisions and actions.

In addition, in June 2012 EC successfully delivered the annual AMOP Technical Seminar on Environmental Contamination and Response. The seminar took place in Vancouver, British Columbia, and was attended by more than 140 national and international world experts in oil and chemical spills. Furthermore, the Department published more than 23 scientific journal papers and peer-reviewed conference proceedings in 2012–2013.

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Performance Analysis:

In 2012–2013, EC undertook activities in support of improving the quality of E2 plans. The Department reviewed a number of plans that were submitted voluntarily. Using qualitative information collected from compliance promotion officers and enforcement officers, EC identified elements of E2 plans that were commonly found to be deficient, and have used this information to improve tools and communications to regulatees. 

With regards to implementing the amendments made in December 2011, EC communicated the information by participating in over 25 conferences, workshops and stakeholder meetings. Regulatees were corresponded with directly (via email) to inform them of the changes to the regulations. A large number of inquiries (more than 2,000) were responded to this fiscal year via generic email box, direct email and direct telephone calls, among other means.

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Performance Analysis:

The Implementation Strategy is no longer applicable.

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Sub-Program 3.1.3 Environmental Emergencies

Performance Analysis:

Performance information on implementation strategies 6.4.5, 6.5.5, 6.4.6, and 6.5.6 could be found under Sub-Program 3.1.2.

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Performance Analysis:

Performance information on implementation strategies 6.4.9 and 6.5.9 could be found under Sub-Program 3.1.2.

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Performance Analysis:

The Implementation Strategies are no longer applicable.

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Sub-Program 3.1.4 Contaminated Sites

Performance Analysis:

During the first two years of Phase II of the Federal Contaminated Sites Action Plan, FCSAP (2011–2016), federal departments, agencies and consolidated Crown corporations have implemented remediation/risk management plans at 77 sites, which represents about 20 percent of the 5-year target.  

Furthermore, the FCSAP Secretariat and Public Works and Government Services undertook an analysis of the benefits of using sustainable approaches and guidance for considering sustainability during the decision-making process of managing federal contaminated sites; the development of training materials for federal site managers; and additional work on the Sustainable Development Analysis Tool to assist federal custodians in choosing the most sustainable remediation / risk management solution for their contaminated sites.

In 2012–2013, FCSAP funds were used at a total of 8 of EC’s 16 highest-risk sites. A total of 11 of the 16 sites will have implementation of remediation or risk management activities by 2015–2016. The 5 remaining sites will likely not have any implementation of remediation or risk management plans due to a lack of funding and site accessibility issues.

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Performance Analysis:

The Implementation Strategy is no longer applicable.

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Performance Analysis:

Implementation Strategies no longer applicable.

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Sub-Program 3.2.1 Climate Change and Clean Air Regulatory Program

Performance Analysis:

In 2012–2013, EC collected facility data on greenhouse gas emissions under section 46 of the Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999. Economy-wide emissions and removals of greenhouse gases were estimated and the national greenhouse gas inventory was submitted on April 15, 2013 as per the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) requirements. Two reports were posted: the National Inventory Report in April, and the Overview Report of facility emissions in May 2013.

For performance information on Implementation Strategy 1.1.4, please refer to Sub-Program 2.1.3.

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Performance Analysis:

In 2012–2013, discussions with provinces interested in using the Single Window Reporting (SWR) system have been pursued for the collection of GHG emissions data. EC SWR has also been expanded to include new reporting modules for the following federal programs: the Chemicals Management Plan, the Vehicle Engine and Emissions Reporting Registry, the Effluent Regulatory Reporting Information System, and the Renewable Fuels Regulation Electronic Reporting System.

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Performance Analysis:

In 2012–2013, EC continued work to develop climate change strategies, aligned with the United States as appropriate, as part of Canada’s commitment to meet Federal Sustainability Development Strategy Target 1.1 (to reduce its total greenhouse gas emissions to 17 percent below 2005 levels by 2020). The federal government is working with other levels of government, industry and stakeholders on a greenhouse gas (GHG) regulatory approach for the oil and gas sector. In addition, the federal government is developing sector-specific regulatory approaches to address GHG emissions from other major-emitting industrial sectors. Work is currently underway for several sectors, including natural gas-fired electricity, fertilizers, chemicals, aluminum, iron and steel, base metals smelting, cement, and pulp and paper.

Furthermore, EC published proposed and final Heavy-Duty Vehicle GHG Emission regulations to reduce emissions from heavy duty vehicles for 2014 and beyond model years. EC also received and reviewed company submissions for 2011 end of year and 2012 model year preliminary reports.

In 2012–2013, EC published the Reduction of Carbon Dioxide Emissions from Coal-Fired Generation of Electricity Regulations in Canada Gazette, Part II, on September 12, 2012. The performance standard in these regulations will come into force in 2015. 

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Performance Analysis:

In 2012–2013, EC continued to maintain dialogue with provinces and territories as part of the process to develop regulatory approaches to reducing GHG emissions. Ongoing significant engagement has taken place through sector-specific working groups, which include federal/provincial/territorial governments as well as the industries involved.

The deputy minister-level Federal-Provincial-Territorial Consultations Steering Committee met twice during 2012–2013.  Additionally, the Federal-Provincial-Territorial Oil and Gas GHG Working Group at the operational level met five times during that period.

The Department has been also discussing the development of equivalency agreements with interested provinces to reduce duplication around federal GHG regulations. Under an equivalency agreement, the provincial regulation applies instead of the federal regulation if an equivalent or better environmental outcome is expected to be achieved under the provincial regime. 

In 2012, EC developed a draft equivalency agreement with Nova Scotia for the federal regulations to address carbon dioxide emissions from coal-fired electricity generation. The agreement was posted on the EC website and a notice of availability was published in the Canada Gazette, Part I, in September 2012.

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Performance Analysis:

The Implementation Strategy was completed.

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Performance Analysis:

The Implementation Strategy was completed.

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Performance Analysis:

The Implementation Strategy is no longer applicable.

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Performance Analysis:

In 2012–2013, NPRI information was collected by June 29, 2012.  An amendment to the normal June 1 deadline was published in the Canada Gazette, Part I, in April 2012, to allow those who were subject to the Notice with respect to substances in the NPRI more time to comply, given the required updates to the online reporting system for NPRI and its partners.

NPRI data publication was later than in past years due to the implementation of ongoing improvements to EC’s online reporting (data collection) system. The preliminary facility-reported data were published on November 22, 2012. The reviewed facility-reported data were published on May 23, 2013. A total of 89.3 percent of facilities reported emissions to the National Pollutant Release Inventory (NPRI) and provided compliant reports in their initial responses within mandated time frames.

The Air Pollutant Emission Inventory (APEI) or comprehensive emissions data were published and submitted to the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe on February 15, 2013.

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Performance Analysis:

In 2012–2013, EC published comprehensive emissions data on sources of key air pollutants. The Air Pollutant Emission Inventory (APEI) provides comprehensive emissions data; it was developed from the National Pollutant Release Inventory (NPRI) data for both point-source and in-house estimates for non-point sources (e.g. transportation and agriculture). The APEI was published on February 15, 2013.

EC continued to provide important air quality scientific knowledge, data, maps, test results, publications, predictive model improvements and outputs, and science advice to inform decisions and actions related to air quality management. In 2012–2013, EC published more than 45 scientific peer-reviewed publications related to air quality issues.

The Department published the Highlights and Key Messages summary of the Canadian Smog Science Assessment in April 2012 on its website. Co-authored by EC and Health Canada (HC), the Canadian Smog Science Assessment is a two-volume, comprehensively researched and independently peer-reviewed scientific evaluation of the formation and fate of smog in Canada and its impact on the health of Canadians and their environment. Over 40 EC scientists and experts partnered with HC and academic experts to produce the Assessment. The purpose of the Assessment was to support the process to develop the new national AQMS, being led by the Canadian Council of Ministers of the Environment. The Assessment was also a deliverable under the Clean Air Regulatory Agenda (CARA). The full text of the Assessment will be available in 2013.

For additional information on Implementation Strategy 2.1.2 please refer to performance information on Implementation Strategy 2.1.1 above.

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Performance Analysis:

In 2012–2013, EC conducted compliance tests on light-duty vehicles, heavy-duty vehicles, motor cycles and scooters, off-road small spark-ignition (gas) engines and off-road compression-ignition (diesel) engines and marine engines and recreational vehicles. EC’s assessment resulted in 41 notices of defect and recall notices covering approximately 150,000 vehicles and engines.

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Performance Analysis:

In 2012–2013, EC undertook compliance promotion for Volatile Organic Compound (VOC) Concentration Limits for Architectural Coatings Regulations and Volatile Organic Compound Concentration Limits for Automotive Refinishing Products Regulations. In 2013, a Guidance Document regarding the analytical methods for the two VOC Regulations was posted on the VOCs in Consumer and Commercial Products website. With respect to the Volatile Organic Compound Concentration Limits for Architectural Coatings Regulations, compliance promotion officers delivered information about the regulations with a focus on paints used for traffic marking.

EC also performed an analysis on the amount of VOC emissions for the automotive refinishing sector, before and after the regulations (i.e. quantity of VOC released from the regulated products) in 2012–2013, through a voluntary survey. Results indicated that VOCs in automotive refinishing products were reduced by 61 percent for calendar year 2011 relative to 2002 base year. This surpasses the 40 percent reductions that were initially predicted. Product testing will be conducted in 2013–2014 in order to verify compliance with the Regulations.

EC continued to work collaboratively with the provinces and territories to finalize and begin implementation of the new AQMS. In October 2012, federal, provincial, and territorial environment ministers agreed to begin implementation of the new system.  Under the AQMS, the federal government is responsible for developing and publishing the Canadian Ambient Air Quality Standards and implementing the base-level industrial emission requirements (BLIERs) under the Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999.

EC started phasing in implementation of the new industrial emission standards using both regulations and non-regulatory instruments over the course of 2013–2014.  Pre-regulatory development and consultations with provinces, territories and industry were completed for the first phase of BLIERs (aluminum and alumina, iron and steel, and cement sectors and non-utility industrial boilers and heaters and natural gas-fired reciprocating engines).

EC developed a Canada Gazette notice to formally establish the new ambient air quality standards for fine particular matter and ozone standards under the Canadian Environmental Protection Act 1999. The new standards were published in the Canada Gazette on May 25, 2013.

Work began on the assessment of the environmental effects of sulphur dioxide and nitrogen dioxide to support the development of updated ambient air quality standards for these pollutants.

In support of air quality, EC collaborated with provincial and territorial governments under the Canadian Council of Ministers of the Environment Mobile Sources Working Group to improve information sharing on transportation emissions.

In 2012–2013, EC performed background analysis of the large spark-ignition market in Canada and began preparing a discussion paper that will serve for stakeholder consultations in the development of draft regulations

For related information, please refer to the Clean Air Agenda program Atmospheric pollutants policy below.

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Performance Analysis:

In 2012–2013, EC took several regulatory actions under the authority of the Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999 to align Canada’s emission-related standards with those of the United States.

EC worked closely with the United States Environmental Protection Agency (U.S. EPA) on the implementation of a collaborative work plan under the auspices of the Canada–United States Regulatory Cooperation Council, and the Canada–United States Air Quality Committee.

In partnership with the U.S. EPA, EC convened a workshop with the support of the Canada–United States Clean Energy Dialogue to bring together federal, provincial and state representatives to discuss best practices and lessons learned on various financing mechanisms for retrofitting heavy-duty vehicles to improve emission performance.

In collaboration with the U.S. EPA and the U.S. Department of Energy, EC led Canada’s contribution to the organization of the 5th International Environmentally Friendly Vehicle Conference. 

In 2012–2013, EC continued to actively participate in the development of the global technical regulations under the World Forum for Harmonization of Vehicle Regulations (WP 29). As secretary in the Electric Vehicle and Environment Working Group, the Department organized meetings, in which significant progress was made to develop a technical reference guide.

Canada continues to contribute to the development of Global Technical Regulations (GTRs) (e.g. Heavy Duty Hybrids) and vote on GTRs (e.g. amendments to GTR. No.4 and GTR. No.5). These GTRs influence development of domestic regulations for vehicles and engines.

EC also published final Regulations Amending the Sulphur in Diesel Fuel Regulations in July 2012.  The regulations create a new standard for the allowable sulphur levels in marine diesel fuel, available for large ships, and enable the implementation of the North American Emissions Control Area for ships in Canada.

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Performance Analysis:

The Implementation Strategy is no longer applicable.

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Clean Air Agenda Theme: Clean Air Regulatory Agenda (CARA)

Performance Analysis:

Electricity:

To limit GHG emissions from the coal-fired electricity generation, EC published the Reduction of Carbon Dioxide Emissions from Coal-Fired Generation of Electricity Regulations in the Canada Gazette, Part II, on September 12, 2012.  The performance standard in these regulations will come into force in 2015.

Emission-Intensive Trade-Exposed Regulations:

In 2012–2013, the base-level industrial emission requirements (BLIERs) were finalized for all sectors except coal-fired electricity and refineries. Draft regulations were developed for cement production, natural gas-fired stationary reciprocating engines, and non-utility industrial boilers and heaters. Consultation with stakeholders and the development of instruments to implement BLIERS took place in 2012–2013 and will continue throughout 2013-2014.

Work is underway to develop GHG regulatory approaches for the potash, nitrogen fertilizer, aluminum, iron and steel, base metals smelting, cement, and pulp and paper sectors.

EC carried out research, analysis, technology assessments and discussions with industry and the provinces regarding the development of sector-specific performance standards. For example, in the chemical sectors, activities included analysis to ascertain which chemical sectors should be prioritized for regulatory development, data collection from covered industry groups, benchmarking of covered activities, and impacts modelling. This allowed EC to develop the required rationale for the setting performance standards in the chemical sectors.

Transportation:

To further reduce GHG emissions from the transportation sector, EC published proposed and final Heavy-Duty Vehicle (HDV) GHG Emission Regulations for 2014 and beyond, and proposed Passenger Automobile and Light Truck GHG Emission Regulations for model years 2017 and beyond.

EC continued its efforts to reduce air pollutants from the transportation sector. In 2012–2013, EC published final regulations requiring an on-board diagnostic (OBD) system in on-road heavy-duty vehicles to detect malfunctions affecting engines and air pollutant emissions.

Oil and Gas:

In 2012–2013, EC has undertaken extensive discussions with the provinces, territories and industry to develop an approach for GHG regulations for the oil and gas sector.

Consumer and commercial products:

In 2012–2013, EC held extensive consultations with various industry stakeholders to explore the development of control measures for a variety of consumer and commercial products, specifically regarding the Proposed Volatile Organic Compound (VOC) Concentration Limits for Certain Products Regulations targeted for publication in the Canada Gazette, Part II, in 2015; and possible control measures on VOC concentration limits for the printing and ink, and for cutback asphalt and emulsified asphalt sectors.  EC also conducted several studies to inform the risk management approach for the printing and ink sector, and further investigated control options for portable fuel containers.  As for aerosol coatings, the Department continued to monitor other jurisdictions’ initiatives and has been gathering data to determine whether risk management actions would warranted.

Also, EC informed interested stakeholders on regulatory obligations for 2-Butoxyethanol Regulations and evaluated the effectiveness of the Environmental Performance Agreement concerning 2-butoxyethanol. Furthermore, compliance promotion activities were undertaken for the Volatile Organic Compound Concentration Limits for Automotive Refinishing Products Regulations and the Volatile Organic Compound Concentration Limits for Architectural Coatings Regulations, with a focus on paints used for traffic marking for the latter.  A guidance document regarding the analytical methods for these two regulations was also posted on Environment Canada’s Industrial, Consumer and Commercial Products website.

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Performance Analysis:

In 2012–2013, EC provided analytical work in support of the regulatory agenda and other programs. This included individual sector competitiveness analysis, energy/macroeconomic modeling and cost benefit analysis in support of the development of GHG and air pollutant regulations.  In addition, legal services were provided on the policy development and regulatory framework for the CARA.

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Performance Analysis:

Science integration, accountability and benefits of action (Clean Air Agenda):

Scientific research and monitoring activities were carried out. These activities addressed chemical and biological trends in Canadian aquatic ecosystems; refined the use of biomonitoring indicators and indicator species, and survey design and research priorities, to improve the assessment of the biological impacts of contaminant emissions; and involved intensive field research on the effects of mercury on fish-eating wildlife in high-risk ecosystems. Associated science activities that increased the knowledge base included the integration of information from the Canadian Arctic Contaminants Assessment for Mercury into the Canadian Mercury Science Assessment; the publication of synthesized data on mercury in fish and wildlife for input to the Canadian Mercury Science Assessment; and the compilation of results from acid rain biomonitoring in Atlantic Canada in preparation for the National Acid Deposition Assessment.

Atmospheric Research, Monitoring and Modelling:

In 2012–2013, EC undertook scientific research, monitoring and modelling activities related to air pollutants to ensure policy and regulatory activities are informed by sound and relevant science and science advice, and to evaluate that the measures taken achieve their intended purpose.

A number of scientific efforts have been carried out in support of the national AQMS, specifically the renewal of the National Air Pollution Surveillance Program (NAPS) Memorandum of Understanding^Footnote 11; an evaluation of the fine particulate matter (PM_2.5) measurement technology and associated data to ensure uniformed scientific approaches across the country; and continued monitoring of levels and trends of key air pollutants via the complementary NAPS and Canadian Air and Precipitation Monitoring Networks^Footnote 12. In addition, EC developed a sampling methodology in support of the base-level industrial emissions requirements (BLIERS) for PM_2.5 and continued to deliver the comprehensive air quality modelling platform to assess the impacts of projected BLIERS and the coal-fired generation of electricity regulations on ambient air quality.

For the National Visibility Monitoring Initiative, EC continued to monitor visibility at key border locations in Canada, including a comparison of Canadian and American monitoring approaches, and validating modelling of visibility for the Pacific Northwest area.  In 2012–2013, EC completed an evaluation study in partnership with Health Canada to identify the health and economic benefits of visibility improvements in the Lower Fraser Valley of British Columbia.  EC’s approach is currently being used by regional partners to establish a visibility management framework and a visibility index for the Lower Fraser Valley of British Columbia. Efforts have also focused on advancing knowledge on the transboundary flow of pollutants across the Pacific and the Canada–United States borders, including Canada and Alaska, and on their transformation and deposition in order to improve and validate air quality prediction models, assess global loading, and understand the impacts on Canadians and their environment. Many of these measurement and research activities support the Canada–United States Air Quality Agreement and other domestic and international obligations. Research results were published in peer-reviewed publications. 

EC also delivered scientific studies focused on emissions from the transportation sector and fuels. Efforts included quantifying emissions (i.e. fine particulate matter and black carbon) from an Arctic vessel, contributing to the assessment of environmental impacts of new transportation technologies, and conducting research on exhaust emissions from light-duty vehicles fuelled with low-level biodiesel blends in support of Health Canada’s Human Health Risk Assessment for Biodiesel Production, Distribution and Use in Canada.

EC also contributed scientific data, information and advice related to the impacts of oil sands development on air quality and ecosystem health.  Efforts were focused on advancing the expansion of monitoring sites in Western Canada to understand fate and deposition of atmospheric pollutants into aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems, conducting additional measurements to address data gaps, initiating upgrades to the aerosol portion of EC’s air quality predictive modelling system and starting to provide simulations for policy applications. These activities contribute to the delivery of the Joint Canada–Alberta Implementation Plan for Oil Sands Monitoring (This paragraph also applies to performance results for CAA program Oil Sands Science).

Furthermore, EC provided important scientific knowledge, data, predictive model outputs and advice to inform the successfully negotiated global, legally binding agreement to prevent mercury emissions and releases under the United Nations Environment Program (UNEP), known as the Minamata Convention on Mercury.  EC’s mercury science results are also informing the development of the first Canadian Mercury Science Assessment scheduled to be released in 2013–2014.

EC expanded the Canadian Greenhouse Gas Monitoring Network to include 2 additional sites in the Arctic (for a total of 15 sites across Canada).  Progress was made in the area of GHG modelling to develop and test methodologies to characterize GHG sources and sinks in Canada.

Also, progress was made to couple the Canadian Terrestrial Ecosystem Model to the most recent version (3.6) of the Canadian Land Surface Scheme (CLASS). This work addresses natural influences (fires and wetlands) in the carbon cycle and enhances the ability to represent feedbacks in the Canadian Earth System Model.

Long-term monitoring of aerosols continued at four sites across Canada. Aerosol monitoring capacity was enhanced by adding instruments to existing measurement sites. Work continued to enhance the representation of aerosols in Environment Canada’s Earth System Model to reliably quantify the climate effects of aerosols (including black carbon), which will lead to more reliable projections of snow melt onset. Ongoing climate model evaluation and validation continued using Canadian and international observations.

Collaboration with Canadian academics supported the development of better representation of climate feedback processes of aerosols, clouds and water vapour in EC global and regional climate models.

Health and Environmental Impacts on Air Pollutants:

In 2012–2013, surveillance activities were expanded to resample lakes in British Columbia watersheds to investigate variance between years.  These analyses, together with surveillance activities in past years (2008–2012), have produced an inventory of over 300 lake sites for assessing sensitivity of watersheds to acid deposition. EC’s activities are measuring the capacity of lakes to withstand inputs of acid-causing emissions, and subsequently assisting the Department in establishing target values for emissions to mitigate environmental impacts.

Lakes in northeastern Alberta, northwestern Saskatchewan, southern Northwest Territories and southwestern British Columbia were sampled to determine acidification status, and to initiate a temporal monitoring network to detect changes in acidification status. Two temporal monitoring networks were maintained, and three intensive research sites in the Atlantic, Quebec and Ontario were sampled to quantify air pollution effects on aquatic chemistry and for revision of national critical load maps.

A comprehensive survey was undertaken to monitor mercury in water, sediment, and biota in six water bodies across Canada in the Atlantic Ocean, Hudson’s Bay, Pacific Ocean watersheds and northern Yukon. This monitoring network establishes the knowledge base necessary to assess the impact and effectiveness of existing and past policy and regulatory decisions, further improving environmental performance and working toward environmental sustainability. A field survey of lakes in the Estevan, Saskatchewan area was conducted. This work has provided the first data on current and historical mercury deposition and bioaccumulation downwind of coal-fired generating plants.

Oil Sands Science:

For performance information please refer to oil sands results, under the CAA Atmospheric Research, Monitoring and Modelling program.

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Performance Analysis:

Canada's Inventory of Greenhouse Gas Sources and Sinks 1990–2011 was submitted to the United Nations (UN) on April 15, 2013, meeting Canada’s international reporting obligations under the UNFCCC.  Inventory GHG data are aligned with GHG data by domestic economic sectors, and are used by EC to develop emission projections under various scenario analyses. Discussions are ongoing with key data providers (Statistics Canada, Transport Canada, Agriculture Canada, and Natural Resource Canada) to ensure the ongoing provision of underlying data.

The Canada Gazette notice requiring the reporting of 2012 greenhouse gas emissions by facilities to Environment Canada’s Greenhouse Gas Emissions Reporting Program was published in September 2012.  The facility-reported data collected for 2011 was published in April 2013 through a harmonized release with the National Inventory Report and updated GHG indicators under the Canadian Environmental Sustainability Indicators (CESI) initiative.  Achievements also included the implementation of data-sharing agreements between Environment Canada and the provinces of British Columbia, Ontario and Manitoba to share facility-reported GHG data collected by Environment Canada under section 46 and section 71 of CEPA 1999, with progress ongoing on similar agreements with other provinces.

The 2011 Air Pollution Emissions Inventory, containing comprehensive estimates for air emissions from all sources of key air pollutants, heavy metals and persistent organic pollutants, was submitted to the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe and published in February 2013.  Analyses and scenario development continued to support the development and monitoring of various regulations, notably in the transportation and industrial sectors, including for regulatory impact assessments on mobile sources and “business-as-usual” projections. Specialized data sets were also developed to support the Canadian Ambient Air Quality System. 

Various activities were undertaken by EC to ensure an efficient maintenance and expansion of the Single Window Reporting system in 2012–2013.  At the beginning of the fiscal year, EC launched updated versions of reporting modules to include required federal and provincial reporting requirements, and improved consistency and efficiency for industry users.

Additionally, information sessions were conducted with industry users to gather feedback and provide guidance for GHG and toxics reporting.

With regards to the expansion of the system, outreach activities were organized and discussions with key potential external and internal partners progressed.  These discussions are expected to result in new partnership agreements in 2013–2014.

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Performance Analysis:

In 2012–2013, EC led the development of regulatory approaches to reducing GHGs in the oil and gas sector, and the natural gas-fired electricity sector, as well as with numerous emissions-intensive trade-exposed (EITE) industrial sectors. EC’s role includes providing support to meetings of the Process Working Group, which was struck to develop an approach for reducing GHG emissions in the oil and gas sector, and analysis and advice related to cross-cutting policy issues.  EC also continued to support meetings of the deputy minister-level Consultations Steering Committee and the director general-level Federal/Provincial/Territorial Working Group, as well as other meetings with provinces, territories and other stakeholders as required.

Discussions were carried out with the following sectors: chemicals, fertilizers, aluminum, cement, iron and steel, base metals smelting, and pulp and paper. EC has established various sector-specific GHG working groups with affected provinces, territories and industry to discuss approaches to achieving reductions.

EC was also in discussions with several provinces regarding GHG equivalency agreements, which would see a federal regulation stand down in a province where an equivalent or better outcome was forecast under a provincial regime. In 2012, EC developed a draft equivalency agreement with Nova Scotia on the federal regulations to address carbon dioxide emissions from coal-fired electricity generation. The draft agreement was published on the Environment Canada website and a notice of the availability for comment was published in the Canada Gazette, Part I, in September 2012.

EC provided analytical work in support of the regulatory agenda and other programs. This included individual sector competitiveness analysis, energy/macroeconomic modelling and cost-benefits analysis in support of the development of GHG and air pollutant regulations.

EC explored the potential for flexible compliance mechanisms for federal GHG regulations for the oil and gas sector and emission-intensive trade-exposed sectors.  The Department also contributed to the implementation of the Cabinet Directive on Regulatory Management (formerly the Cabinet Directive on Streamlining Regulation) by continuing to develop, deliver and coordinate regulatory departmental training and providing advice to EC’s regulatory community on regulatory development and approval processes.

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Performance Analysis:

EC worked to finalize and begin implementation of the new Air Quality Management System (AQMS).  In October 2012, ministers agreed to move forward with the implementation of the system in order to further improve air quality and help protect the health of Canadians and their environment.  Under the AQMS, the federal government is responsible for establishing, under the Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999, the new Canadian Ambient Air Quality Standards and the base-level industrial emission requirements (BLIERs).

Through a Notice in the Canada Gazette, Part 1, on May 25, 2013, and pursuant to the Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999, the federal government established as objectives the new Canadian Ambient Air Quality Standards for fine particulate matter and ozone, which were agreed to by the Ministers of the Environment in October 2012.  EC has also initiated work to inform the development of ambient standards for sulphur dioxide and nitrogen dioxide. 

New industrial emission standards for major industrial sectors and some types of equipment will be implemented using both regulations and non-regulatory instruments and implemented in phases over the course of 2013–2014. 

For relevant performance information on this CAA program, please refer to Implementation Strategy 2.1.8 under Sub-Program 3.2.1.

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Clean Air Agenda Theme: Clean Transportation

Performance Analysis:

EC continued its effort to reduce or enable reduction of air pollutants from the marine sector in 2012–2013. In July 2012, EC published final amendments to the Sulphur in Diesel Fuel Regulations under the Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999.  The new amendments ensured that fuel suppliers can provide the fuel required for the implementation of the North American Emission Control Area (ECA) in accordance with the international commitments under Annex VI of the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships (MARPOL).

EC also participated on Canada’s delegation to the International Maritime Organization (IMO). EC conducted scientific and policy research to inform negotiations at the IMO and for setting federal regulations.

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Sub-Program 3.2.2 International Climate Change and Clean Air Partnerships

Performance Analysis:

In 2012–2013, EC continued to participate in the development of recommendations for the mitigation of short-lived climate pollutants (SLCPs) while representing Canada on the Arctic Council Task Force on SLCPs. At their February 2013 meeting, Arctic Environment Ministers concluded that decisive action on black carbon and other SLCPs is needed, and encouraged coordination and support for international and global efforts to address emissions. In May 2013, the final report of the Task Force containing recommendations to mitigate black carbon and methane was submitted at the Arctic Council Ministerial meeting in Kiruna, Sweden.

In addition, on June 21, 2012 Minister Kent and U.S. Energy Secretary Steven Chu released the Second Action Plan under the Clean Energy Dialogue (CED). This action plan outlined work that officials within the two federal governments carried out in three thematic areas: (1) carbon capture and storage; (2) electricity grid; and (3) clean energy research and development (R&D) and energy efficiency. Over the course of 2012–2013, American and Canadian officials collaborated on several initiatives to advance work in these areas. More information on the initiatives under the CED can be found at the U.S. - Canada Clean Energy Dialogue website.

EC continued to lead the Government of Canada participation in international negotiations on climate change in various international fora and multilateral organizations, such as the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), the Major Economies Forum on Energy andClimate, the Climate and Clean Air Coalition to Reduce Short-Lived Climate Pollutants, the Global Methane Initiative and the Global Alliance for Clean Cookstoves. It successfully and effectively coordinated a whole-of-government approach to support the Chief Negotiator and Ambassador for Climate Change.

For related information, please refer to Clean Air Agenda programs “International Climate Change Participation and Negotiations,” “International Climate Obligations,” “Engagement and Alignment with U.S,” and “Atmospheric Pollutant Policy” below.

Please note that Canada is no longer party to the Kyoto Protocol as of December 2012.

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Performance Analysis:

A National Greenhouse Gas Inventory, compliant with UNFCCC, was submitted April 15, 2012.

Please note that Canada is no longer party to the Kyoto Protocol as of December 2012.

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Performance Analysis:

In 2012–2013, EC oversaw the successful delivery of the Government of Canada $1.2 billion fast-start financing package, and directly delivered contributions of over $49 million in 2012–2013 in climate change support to developing countries. The complete list of projects can be found at EC website. EC publicly reported to the UNFCCC every year of the 3-year fast-start financing.

The Department also supported Canada’s participation in multilateral organizations outside the UNFCCC for the development and deployment of clean technologies, including the Global Methane Initiative (GMI), formally known as Methane to Markets. In partnership with the United States Environmental Protection Agency, EC successfully hosted the GMI Expo in Vancouver in March 2013.

In addition, EC continued to play a leadership role in the Climate and Clean Air Coalition, and has served on the Steering Committee since its launch in February 2012 by providing strategic and financial support to the Coalition and its numerous initiatives aimed at taking meaningful action to reduce short-lived climate pollutants in the municipal solid waste, diesel and agriculture sectors. 

For related information please refer to Clean Air Agenda programs “International climate change participation and negotiations,” “International climate obligations,” and “Engagement and alignment with U.S.” below.

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Performance Analysis:

The Implementation Strategies are completed.

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Performance Analysis:

The Implementation Strategy is no longer applicable.

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Performance Analysis:

In 2012–2013, EC continued to work cooperatively with the United States to address the transboundary movement of air pollutants that cause acid rain and smog under the Canada–United States Air Quality Agreement (AQA). Both countries continue to be in full compliance with their respective commitments and the emissions of these pollutants have decreased significantly on both sides of the border since the signing of the Agreement. The 2012 biennial progress report was prepared in collaboration with the United States and expected to be published in November 2013. 

In 2013, EC hosted the annual meeting of the Canada–United States Air Quality Committee, which is responsible for administering work and reviewing the progress of AQA implementation. Under the Canada–United States Regulatory Cooperation Council, Canada and the United States agreed to consider the expansion of the Canada–United States AQA to address transboundary particulate matter. Canada and the United States are working to complete the necessary scientific and technical foundations required to inform and support the consideration of adding the Particulate Matter Annex to the Canada–United States AQA.

Furthermore, in 2012–2013, Canada worked with the United States and Mexico to build further support for the North American proposal to phase down hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) under the Montreal Protocol, including by submitting a revised version of the proposal for consideration by Parties to the Montreal Protocol and negotiating the adoption of decisions to gather additional technical and economic information on alternatives to HFCs. The North American proposal elicited significant interest and will be further considered under the Montreal Protocol in 2013–2014. In addition, the outcomes of the 2012 United Nations Conference on Sustainable Development (Rio+20 summit) support the phase-down of HFC consumption and production.

For related information, please refer to the Clean Air Agenda program “Atmospheric pollutants policy” below.

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Performance Analysis:

EC conducted additional consultations in 2012–2013 leading to a revised proposal. The proposal is pending further information from implicated stakeholders.

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Performance Analysis:

The Implementation Strategy was completed.

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Performance Analysis:

The Implementation Strategy was completed.

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Clean Air Agenda Theme: International Actions

Performance Analysis:

In 2012–2013, EC continued to play a leadership role by actively and constructively participating in the UNFCCC and in various fora such as the Major Economies Forum on Energy and Climate, in order to advance Canada’s climate change objectives with its international partners.

Similarly, EC continued to play a leadership role in the Climate and Clean Air Coalition (CCAC). The Department was instrumental in the growth of the Coalition (currently over 60 partners) and helped in the development and implementation of the Coalition’s initiatives, along with serving on the Coalition’s Steering Committee. Canada is currently leading on initiatives in the municipal solid waste, diesel, agriculture and financing mitigation of short-lived climate pollutant initiatives.

Through Canada’s fast-start financing, EC delivered $13 million to the CCAC to support the reduction of emissions of short-lived climate pollutants in developing countries. EC played a leadership role in the successful delivery of the Government of Canada $1.2 billion fast-start financing package.

Furthermore, EC directly delivered an investment of over $49 million in 2012–2013 in climate change support which contributed to strong partnerships with developing countries in Latin America and the Caribbean.

In 2012–2013, Canada continued to be an active participant in the Global Methane Initiative (GMI), an international technology partnership designed to increase the diffusion of clean technologies and address both climate change and energy security goals.

In partnership with the United States Environmental Protection Agency, EC successfully hosted the GMI Expo in Vancouver in March 2013, which provided a forum to showcase:

• Canadian leadership in methane abatement technologies;
• The importance of clean technology partnerships and parallel multilateral processes; and,
• Links to international efforts to reduced Short-Lived Climate Pollutants and the development of Nationally Appropriate Mitigation Actions.

On June 21, 2012 Canada’s Minister of the Environment and the United States Energy Secretary released Action Plan II under the Clean Energy Dialogue (CED), featuring initiatives on carbon capture and storage, energy efficiency, and clean energy research and development. While the November 2012 U.S. election and the following transition period complicated some engagement under the CED, important work to advance common clean energy objectives was ongoing. EC also worked with Natural Resources Canada and the U.S. Department of Energy in the bilateral Clean Energy Research and Development and Energy Efficiency Working Group and supported activities in the area of biofuels, transportation, buildings and communities and energy efficiency.

For related information, please refer to implementation strategies 1.1.20, 1.1.46, 1.1.47, 1.1.43 and 1.1.49.2 under Sub-Program 3.2.2.

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Clean Air Agenda Theme: Clean Air Regulatory Agenda (CARA)

Performance Analysis:

In 2012–2013, EC provided strategic advice and policy direction to support Canada’s engagement within various international fora such as the Convention on Long-Range Transboundary Air Pollution (CLRTAP), the Arctic Council, the Commission for Environmental Cooperation, and the Climate and Clean Air Coalition. These are fora for regional/international action on air pollution and short-lived climate pollutants, which include black carbon, methane, ozone and certain hydrofluorocarbons. For example, EC contributed to the Arctic Council Task Force on Short-Lived Climate Forcers recommendations on black carbon and methane mitigation, published May 2013, and led Canada’s delegation to CLRTAP negotiations to finalize and adopt amendments to the Gothenburg Protocol.

Environment Canada continued to work cooperatively with the United States to address the transboundary movement of air pollutants that cause acid rain and smog under the Canada–U.S. Air Quality Agreement (AQA). Both countries continue to be in full compliance with their respective commitments and the emissions of these pollutants have decreased significantly on both sides of the border since the signing of the Agreement. The 2012 biennial progress report was prepared in collaboration with the United States and published in November 2012.

For related performance information, please refer to implementation strategies 1.1.47, 1.1.46, 2.1.31 and 2.1.37 under Sub-Program 3.2.2.

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Sub-Program 3.2.3 Environmental Technology

Performance Analysis:

In 2012–2013, EC continued to provide analysis and assessment of the environmental impacts of new and emerging technologies (e.g. carbon capture and storage technologies, and renewable energy technologies) to government decision makers. However, user group evaluations were not conducted in this fiscal year.

Federal technology programs in which EC participates reported that supported technologies delivered annual reductions in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions of 1.22 MT and air pollutants of 16 t. EC’s participation in these programs helped promote their alignment with the Department’s priorities for reducing GHG and air pollutant emissions and to maximize their environmental benefits.

Further, EC and Natural Resources Canada negotiated and concluded a new funding agreement ($40 million announced in Budget 2011) with Sustainable Development Technology Canada (SDTC) to support clean-technology projects that address climate change and clean air.

EC continued to lead development of the Environmental Technology Verification (ETV) standard (under the International Organization for Standardization) and finalized two new ETV protocols. EC also continued to collaborate with the Bureau de normalization du Quebec (BNQ) towards the development of a memorandum of understanding amongst BNQ, GLOBE Performance Solutions and Ministère du Développement durable, de l'Environnement et des Parcs (MDDEP), in order to align BNQ verification procedures with ETV on waste water technologies. Discussions also continued on harmonizing the ETV process in all sectors.

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Program 3.3 Compliance Promotion and Enforcement – Pollution

Performance Analysis:

In 2012–2013, EC started developing compliance strategies for eight air pollution prevention regulatory and Clean Air Regulatory Agenda initiatives. These initiatives cover air pollutants, green-house gases (GHGs) and multi-sector Air pollutionrRegulations. The compliance strategies identified the sectors that would be affected by the regulations and activities to encourage their compliance with the regulations on these eight initiatives. Compliance strategies were completed for two GHG regulations.

In 2012–2013, compliance promotion officers delivered activities on 2 risk management instruments (regulations and pollution prevention plans) to manage the risk of air pollution substances. Over 400 emails, letters, faxes, factsheets, information sessions and phone calls reached around 125 facilities from various sectors.

Similarly, compliance promotion officers delivered activities on 3 risk management instruments (regulations and pollution prevention plans) to manage the risk of water pollution substances. Approximately 5,000 emails, letters, faxes, factsheets, information sessions and phone calls reached over 3,600 facilities from various sectors. Both air and water pollution substances were added to the List of Toxic Substances in 2010.

For additional information please refer to Clean Air Agenda program “Compliance promotion and enforcement” under below.

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Clean Air Agenda Theme: Clean Air Regulatory Agenda (CARA)

Performance Analysis:

In 2012–2013, EC undertook enforcement activities, including inspections and investigations on enforceable CARA instruments such as Off-Road Small Spark-Ignition Engine Emission Regulations. EC also provided advice during the development of existing and upcoming regulatory initiatives to ensure enforceability of CARA regulations. Training was developed and delivered to enforcement officers on On-Road Vehicle and Engine Emission Regulations, Off-Road Compression-Ignition Engine Emission Regulations and Off-Road Small Spark-Ignition Engine Emission Regulations, Marine Spark-Ignition Engine, Vessel and Off-Road Recreational Vehicle Emission Regulations, and Passenger Automobile and Light Truck Greenhouse Gas Emission Regulations.

As part of EC’s information management systems, preliminary analysis of data models were performed and input was provided to EC’s application to Canada Revenue Agency for data access, and to address data quality issues.

The Department continued to maintain capacity and provide sound science, testing and expertise in support of the CARA regulatory measures, including compliance promotion and enforcement activities associated with Transportation and Consumer and Commercial Products regulations.

For additional information, please refer to implementation strategies 2.1.38, 2.3.9 and 3.12.8 under Program 3.3 above.

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Additional Information

Environment Canada is a participant in the FSDS and contributes to the Greening Government Operations (GGO) targets through the Internal Services Program. The Department contributes to the following target areas of Theme IV of the FSDS:

• Green Buildings
• Green Procurement
• E-Waste, Managed Print, Paper Consumption and Green Meetings
• Greenhouse Gas Emissions

For additional details on Environment Canada's GGO activities, please see Environment Canada’s Supplementary Information Tables under the Performance Report for the period ending March 31, 2013.

For additional details on the FSDS, please visit the FSDS website.