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2011/2012 Report on Plans and Priorities - Future-oriented Financial Statements

Authority and objectives

Environment Canada was established under legislation by the Department of the Environment Act. Under this Act, the powers, duties and functions of the Minister of the Environment extend to and include matters relating to:

  • The preservation and enhancement of the quality of the natural environment (including water, air and soil quality);
  • Renewable resources, including migratory birds and other non-domestic flora and fauna;
  • Water;
  • Meteorology;
  • Enforcement of any rules or regulations made by the International Joint Commission relating to boundary waters; and
  • Coordination of the policies and programs of the Government of Canada respecting the preservation and enhancement of the quality of the natural environment.

Environment Canada delivers its mandate through the following programs:

  • Weather and Environmental Services for Canadians
  • Biodiversity -- Wildlife and Habitat
  • Compliance Promotion and Enforcement – Wildlife
  • Substances and Waste Management
  • Climate Change and Clean Air
  • Water Resources
  • Compliance Promotion and Enforcement – Pollution
  • Sustainable Ecosystems
  • Mackenzie Gas Project*
  • Weather and Environmental Services for Targeted Users
  • Internal Services

*The Mackenzie Gas Project (MGP) ended December 31, 2010.

In addition, Environment Canada has authority under numerous pieces of legislation which affect how the department operates. The most significant Acts are as follows:

  • Antarctic Environmental Protection Act
  • Canada Water Act
  • Canada Wildlife Act
  • Canadian Environmental Assessment Act
  • Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999
  • Department of the Environment Act
  • Fisheries Act (Sections 36-42)
  • International River Improvements Act
  • Migratory Birds Convention Act, 1994
  • Species at Risk Act
  • Weather Modification Information Act
  • Kyoto Protocol Implementation Act (2007, c. 30)
  • Federal Sustainable Development Act (2008, c. 33)
  • Wild Animal and Plant Protection and Regulation of International and Interprovincial Trade Act
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