44th Parliament223Government response tabledMarch 18, 2024441-02058441-02058 (Environment)ElizabethMaySaanich—Gulf IslandsGreen PartyBCFebruary 1, 2024March 18, 2024February 8, 2023Petition to the House of Commons in Parliament AssembledWhereas:
  • Irresponsible practices by industry and multi-national corporations have led to the destruction and denigration of much of Canada's waterways and watersheds;
  • Current laws do not sufficiently protect Canada's waterways and watersheds from such irresponsible practices; and
  • Protecting waterways and watersheds also protects Canada's forests, fisheries, land, and air.
We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada call upon the House of Commons in Parliament assembled to:
  • Update Canada's water laws to ensure that no industry or corporation takes precedence over the health of Canada's waterways and watersheds, and by extension the health of the country's people, species, and land; and
  • Ensure Canada's water laws are updated under the guidance of professionals and specialists in the field of water conservation.
Response by the Minister of Environment and Climate ChangeSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable STEVEN GUILBEAULTA clean and safe freshwater supply is essential to the well-being of Canadians, the health and sustainability of the environment, and the economy. Hence, the Government of Canada has committed to:
  • establishing a federal Canada Water Agency to work with the provinces, territories, Indigenous communities, and other stakeholders to find the best ways to keep Canada’s water safe, clean, and well-managed;
  • implementing a strengthened Freshwater Action Plan, including a historic investment to provide funding to support monitoring, assessment, and restoration work in the Great Lakes, Lake Winnipeg, Lake of the Woods, St. Lawrence River, Fraser River, Saint John River, Mackenzie River, and Lake Simcoe;
  • investing in the Experimental Lakes Area in northern Ontario to support international freshwater science and research; and
  • following the establishment of a Canada Water Agency, advancing the modernization of the Canada Water Act to reflect Canada’s freshwater reality including climate change and Indigenous rights.
To advance these commitments, Budget 2023 allocated:
  • $650 million over ten years, starting in 2023-24, to support monitoring, assessment, and restoration work in the Great Lakes, Lake Winnipeg, Lake of the Woods, St. Lawrence River, Fraser River, Saint John River, Mackenzie River, and Lake Simcoe.
  • Opportunities are currently open for eligible applicants to apply for funding under five Freshwater Ecosystem Initiatives, including Great Lakes, Lake of the Woods, and Lake Winnipeg Basin (this call for applications closes on February 15, 2024) and Lake Simcoe and the Wolastoq/Saint John River (this call for applications closes on March 22, 2024).
  • The EcoAction Community Funding Program, which supports freshwater projects across Canada, is also now accepting applications until March 22, 2024.
  • Budget 2023 also allocated:
    • $22.6 million over three years, starting in 2023-24, to support better coordination of efforts to protect freshwater across Canada.
    • $85.1 million over five years, starting in 2023-24, with $0.4 million in remaining amortization and $21 million ongoing thereafter to support the creation of the Canada Water Agency, which will be headquartered in Winnipeg.
Budget 2022 provided:
  • $25.0 million over five years, starting in 2022-2023, for the Experimental Lakes Area in northern Ontario to support international freshwater science and research.
On June 12, 2023, the government created the Canada Water Agency as a branch within Environment and Climate Change Canada. The Agency is the federal focal point for fresh water working in partnership with Indigenous Peoples, provinces, territories, and stakeholders to strengthen collaboration on fresh water.On November 30, 2023, the government introduced legislation that will fully establish the Canada Water Agency as a standalone entity. To learn more about the Canada Water Agency, please consult the Agency website at https://www.canada.ca/en/environment-climate-change/services/water-overview/canada-water-agency.html.Another way that the Government of Canada protects and conserves Canada’s water resources is by administering laws that control pollution such as the Fisheries Act.Environment and Climate Change Canada is the lead department responsible for the administration and enforcement of the Fisheries Act pollution prevention provisions (except for their application to aquaculture and the control and eradication of aquatic invasive species and aquatic pests, which are under the responsibility of the Department of Fisheries and Ocean). Subsection 36(3) prohibits the deposit of any deleterious substances in water frequented by fish or to any place where it may enter water frequented by fish, unless authorized by federal regulations. Deleterious substances include any substance that, if added to water, would degrade, alter or form part of a process of degradation or alteration of the quality of water so that it is rendered deleterious to fish or fish habitat or to the use of fish by humans. Any regulations developed under section 36 set strict requirements on deposits to water. These regulations can impose conditions such as limits on the maximum quantities of deleterious substances released into water, and can include environmental effects monitoring and other reporting requirements for facilities. Modern Fisheries Act regulations include the Metal and Diamond Mining Effluent Regulations, the Pulp and Paper Effluent Regulations, and the Wastewater Systems Effluent Regulations.Environment and Climate Change Canada is developing proposed regulations to address deposits to water from coal mining and is investigating risk management approaches for tailings ponds from oil sands operations.To learn more about these proposed regulations, as well as upcoming improvements to existing regulations, please consult the Fisheries Act Forward Regulatory Plan 2023-2025 available at: https://www.canada.ca/en/environment-climate-change/corporate/transparency/acts-regulations/forward-regulatory-plan/2023-2025/fisheries-act.html.Environment and Climate Change Canada enforces the subsection 36(3) prohibition, as well as regulations under the Fisheries Act according to the Compliance and Enforcement Policy for Habitat Protection and Pollution Prevention Provisions of the Fisheries Act: www.canada.ca/en/environment-climate-change/services/environmental-enforcement/publications/compliance-enforcement-policy-fisheries-act.html 
Environmental protectionInland watersWatersheds
44th Parliament207Open for signatureMarch 8, 2024e-4854e-4854 (Environment)AmalieWilkinsonPatrickWeilerWest Vancouver—Sunshine Coast—Sea to Sky CountryLiberalBCMarch 8, 2024, at 2:56 p.m. (EDT)May 7, 2024, at 2:56 p.m. (EDT)Petition to the <Addressee type="2" affiliationId="" mp-riding-display="1">House of Commons in Parliament assembled</Addressee>Whereas:Scientific assessments underline the urgent need to address the intersecting crises of climate change, biodiversity breakdown, pollution, and resource depletion;The most severe, widespread, and long-term forms of environmental damage (ecocide), which contribute to these crises, are not recognized as a crime under existing international laws;Domestic ecocide legislation has been proposed in Brazil, Scotland, Chile, Belgium, the Netherlands, the UK and other countries, and the European Union recently agreed to include crimes comparable to ecocide in its revised environmental crimes directive;There are growing calls from civil society, faith groups, businesses and investors, including the International Corporate Governance Network (ICGN), for the criminalization of ecocide at an international level; andAmending the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court to include ecocide as a crime, alongside genocide, war crimes, crimes against humanity, and the crime of aggression, could provide a simple, effective deterrent for corporate and government decision-makers from causing intentional or negligent environmental destruction.We, the undersigned, citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons in Parliament assembled to publicly declare its support for an international crime of ecocide.Environmental protectionForeign policyInternational lawRome Statute44th Parliament207Open for signatureFebruary 14, 2024e-4804e-4804 (Environment)SandraMartinElizabethMaySaanich—Gulf IslandsGreen PartyBCFebruary 14, 2024, at 10:50 a.m. (EDT)April 14, 2024, at 10:50 a.m. (EDT)Petition to the <Addressee type="3" affiliationId="" mp-riding-display="1">Government of Canada</Addressee>Whereas:The Department of National Defence (DND) intends to build a land-based testing facility at Hartlen Point, Nova Scotia;300+ bird species have been observed at Hartlen Point;Environment and Climate Change Canada claims to be “an international leader in bird science, monitoring and conservation";The Canada-NS Nature Agreement promised $28.5 million to protect biodiversity, habitat and species at risk in Nova Scotia;Hartlen Point is Nova Scotia’s top bird observation site, in Canada’s top ten and the only site in Canada’s top 49 not protected;Construction of the facility will destroy important protection, feeding and resting grounds for thousands of migratory birds;Site selection took place before public consultation was initiated, utilized outdated and incomplete studies, ignored independent expert bird studies, and did not consider the impact on lobster fisheries; andAccess to information requests have been ignored.We, the undersigned, citizens of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to pause all construction and further development of the land-based testing facility at Hartlen Point until the following are completed:(a) an independent impact assessment, including:(i) consideration of the impacts on wildlife, migratory bird populations and traffic,(ii) full, transparent community consultation and outreach;(b) proper consideration of alternative sites including re-purposing of existing DND facilities;(c) public access to all documents affecting the decision to develop Hartlen Point; and(d) permanent protections for habitat and staging areas at Hartlen Point.Environmental protectionHartlen PointMilitary facilitiesPublic consultation44th Parliament223Government response tabledDecember 12, 2023441-01870441-01870 (Environment)RichardCanningsSouth Okanagan—West KootenayNDPBCNovember 2, 2023December 12, 2023October 23, 2023PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONSWe, the undersigned Canadians, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following: Whereas:
  • the impacts of climate change are accelerating in Canada and around the world;
  • Canada has endorsed the Paris Agreement to limit global temperature rise to well below 2 °C in order to avoid the most disastrous effects of climate change, yet greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions have failed to decline in Canada;
  • Canada's current GHG reduction targets are not consistent with doing our fair share to meet the global goals agreed upon in Paris to mitigate climate change;
  • our fossil fuel extraction industries are significant contributors to Canada's GHG emissions;
  • subsidizing fossil fuel production, export and expansion, including new pipelines, are not compatible with the stated goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions; and
  • the government's continued support of the fossil fuel industry, in spite of scientific evidence of the cumulative damage of emissions, puts our future in danger.
THEREFORE, your petitioners call upon the House of Commons to take urgent cooperative action to fulfill Canada's obligations under the Paris Agreement, through:
  • a just transition off of fossil fuel that leaves no-one behind;
  • eliminating federal fossil fuel subsidies; and
  • halting the expansion of fossil fuel production in Canada.
Response by the Minister of Environment and Climate ChangeSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable STEVEN GUILBEAULTIn 2021, the Government of Canada committed to achieving an enhanced 2030 emissions reduction target of 40-45 per cent below 2005 levels under the Paris Agreement and adopted legislation to enshrine this Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC), as well as the commitment to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050 in law. The Canadian Net-Zero Emissions Accountability Act provides a durable framework of accountability and transparency to deliver on this commitment. The Act requires the Minister of Environment and Climate Change to set subsequent targets for 2035, 2040, and 2045, at least 10 years in advance. The Act also holds the federal government accountable as it charts Canada’s path to achieve net-zero emissions by establishing a transparent process to plan, assess, and adjust the federal government’s efforts to achieve our national targets, based on the best scientific information available.As an early deliverable under the Canadian Net-Zero Emissions Accountability Act, Canada published the first Emissions Reduction Plan (ERP) in 2022. The plan lays out the next steps to reaching Canada’s 2030 emissions reduction target as a concrete milestone that improves transparency and accountability on the way to net-zero. The 2030 ERP includes a suite of new mitigation measures and strategies, $9.1 billion in new investments, and builds on the foundation set by Canada’s existing climate actions. The plan also reflects input from thousands of Canadians, businesses, and communities, as well as submissions from Indigenous partners, provinces, territories and the Net-Zero Advisory Body.Achieving further emissions reductions, in line with Canada’s 2030 and 2050 commitments, will require significant and ongoing effort. The Government of Canada is optimistic that, together, Canadians can achieve real and lasting emission reductions, while sharing and exporting our climate solutions to the world and supporting the workers and communities affected by the global transition towards a low-carbon future.Looking forward, the transition to a cleaner future will bring new, dynamic opportunities across our labour force. To put workers across Canada at the forefront of building a net-zero emissions economy, the Government of Canada is committed to help Canadians have the skills they need to succeed and to enable the economy to have the workers it needs to thrive. Building on Budget 2021 investments in skills development, including through the Sectoral Workforce Solutions Program, Skills for Success, and the Apprenticeship Service, the Government is proposing to invest $250 million to help ensure Canadian workers can thrive in a changing global economy through the 2022 Fall Economic Statement.On July 24, 2023, the Government of Canada released the Inefficient Fossil Fuel Subsidies Government of Canada Self-Review Assessment Framework and the Inefficient Fossil Fuel Subsidies Government of Canada Guidelines, which were jointly developed by Environment and Climate Change Canada and the Department of Finance Canada. The Guidelines apply to all federal departments and agencies.The Framework and Guidelines fulfill our domestic, G7 and G20 commitments to phase out and rationalize inefficient fossil fuel subsidies by 2023. Canada is the first country to release a rigorous analytical guide that both fulfills this commitment and transparently supports action. The Guidelines will be used to prevent the creation of inefficient fossil fuel subsidies in the future.     
Response by the Minister of Energy and Natural ResourcesSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, P.C., M.P.The Government of Canada is investing to build a prosperous low-carbon economy in line with Canada’s ambitious emissions reduction targets. This includes taking a whole-of-government approach to seize the generational economic opportunities that a net zero emissions future represents – by making investments in renewable energy and clean technology as well as decarbonization technology in the conventional energy sector.Budget 2023 makes transformative investments to build Canada’s clean economy, fight climate change, and create new opportunities for Canadian businesses and Canadian workers. This includes significant measures that will deliver cleaner and more affordable energy, support investment in our communities and the creation of good-paying, high-quality jobs, and ensure Canadian workers are able to produce and provide the goods and resources that Canadians and our global partners need. These investments are underpinned by a set of clear and predictable investment tax credits, low-cost strategic financing, and targeted investments and programming, where necessary, to respond to the unique needs of sectors or projects of national economic significance. Since 2016, the federal government has committed over $120 billion to clean growth and emissions reduction measures, including over $80 billion in investment tax credits.Canada also joined other countries at COP26 in committing to end new direct public support for the international unabated fossil fuel energy sector by the end of 2022. On December 8, 2022, the Government released policy guidelines that lay the foundation for federal departments and agencies to put in place the measures that deliver on Canada’s commitment at COP26. By ending new direct public support for the international unabated fossil fuel energy sector, Canada will ensure its investments abroad are aligned with its domestic and international climate goals, which means investing in clean energy and renewables.In addition, Canada committed to phase out inefficient fossil fuel subsidies, and recently accelerated the timeline to do so this year. To date, Canada has phased out or rationalized nine tax preferences supporting the fossil fuel sector and has committed to take part in a peer review of inefficient fossil fuel subsidies under the G20 process.The Government also announced in Canada’s 2030 Emissions Reduction Plan that it will cap and cut emissions from the oil and gas sector. This commitment was reiterated and reaffirmed at COP27. As a result, companies are actively investing in the development and deployment of emissions-reduction technologies, such as carbon capture, utilisation and storage (CCUS), hydrogen and electrification. These efforts will help lead to a cleaner energy future.With a highly skilled and educated workforce, and with the abundant natural resources and energy sources critical for a net-zero future, Canada is uniquely positioned to benefit from a low-carbon economy. The Government is committed to moving forward with comprehensive action required to support Canadian workers and communities as they meet the challenges and realize the opportunities of a net-zero emissions future.  The interim Sustainable Jobs Plan, released in February 2023, lays out a comprehensive approach as part of Canada’s broader economic plan for clean growth.This plan, drafted in consultation with provinces, territories, union and labour organizations, Indigenous partners, industry, and civil society, outlines the Government’s current and planned action to support the creation of good, well-paying jobs for Canadians. These opportunities exist in every region of the country and every sector of the economy. From critical minerals to hydrogen, electric cars and buses, batteries, renewable energy, low-carbon building products, carbon capture, utilization and storage, and small modular reactors, Canada has a major opportunity to build a net-zero future that works for everyone. There are also significant opportunities for sustainable jobs in conventional energy industries that are working to lower their emissions in line with Canada’s climate policy, enabling producers to be low-emissions suppliers of products to a world rapidly shifting to a net-zero economy.Recognizing the importance of helping Canadians access job training for the net-zero future, the Government has also made historic investments in skills programming, including for sustainable jobs. This includes $1.5 billion in new investments that will deliver almost 500,000 new training and work opportunities for Canadians, which will help workers transition to and take advantage of new opportunities, including in clean energy. Furthermore, the 2022 Fall Economic Statement announced funding to establish a new sustainable jobs stream under the Union Training and Innovation Program and launch a new Sustainable Jobs Training Centre, among other things.As committed to in the interim Sustainable Jobs Plan, the Government introduced Bill C-50, the Canadian Sustainable Jobs Act, in June 2023. The legislation proposes establishing a federal governance, engagement, and accountability framework to advance economic prosperity and ensure workers benefit from the opportunities presented by a low-carbon economy. The bill would also require the Government to:
  • establish a Sustainable Jobs Partnership Council to provide independent advice to Government on sustainable jobs measures;
  • create a Secretariat to lead the Government’s sustainable jobs approach; and
  • release a Sustainable Jobs Action Plan every five years beginning in 2025.
These legislated mechanisms would guide and organize efforts to support workers and communities as Canada shifts to a low-carbon economy, ensuring equitable, inclusive, and sustainable economic growth across the country.The Regional Energy and Resource Tables (Regional Tables) are a key initiative to drive this work. The Regional Tables are helping to accelerate Canada’s economic growth opportunities by taking into account each region’s unique advantages and ability to meet the demands of new and emerging markets. These regional processes are being undertaken in partnership with individual provincial and territorial governments, in collaboration with Indigenous partners, and with the input of experts, labour organizations, industry, and other stakeholders. The Regional Tables will form the basis for implementing joint strategies to leverage energy and resource opportunities to realize each region of Canada’s comparative advantage in a net-zero emissions economy.To date, the federal government has jointly launched nine Regional Tables across the country, with British Columbia, Manitoba, Ontario, and the four Atlantic provinces (New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, and Newfoundland and Labrador) as well as the Northwest Territories and Yukon. Most recently, the Government of Canada and British Columbia, in collaboration with First Nation partners, released the foundational British Columbia Regional Energy and Resource Table Collaboration Framework, which sets the stage for a shared longer-term vision. On the other side of the country, plans for a similar framework with Newfoundland and Labrador and Ontario are not far behind.Canada has what it takes to be a clean energy and technology supplier of choice in a low-carbon world; the Government remains committed to realizing that potential.
Environmental protectionFossil fuelsParis Agreement under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change
44th Parliament223Government response tabledDecember 11, 2023441-01842441-01842 (Environment)ElizabethMaySaanich—Gulf IslandsGreen PartyBCOctober 27, 2023December 11, 2023September 22, 2022Petition to the Government of CanadaWhereas:
  • Indigenous peoples have rights and title to their traditional territories and have been stewards of these lands since time immemorial;
  • The climate crisis requires action by all levels of government and industry;
  • Old-growth forests provide immeasurable benefits, including carbon sequestration, biodiversity, culture, recreation, education, food and more;
  • Valley-bottom high productivity old-growth ecosystems in British Columbia are endangered;
  • Of the remaining 2.7% of original high productivity old-growth forests in British Columbia, 75% are still slated to be logged;
  • Only 9% of the original 360,000 hectares of valley-bottom high productivity old-growth on Vancouver Island remain today, and only 2.6% of those forests are protected in parks;
  • The last unprotected intact old-growth valley on Southern Vancouver Island, Fairy Creek, is slated for logging, along with the upper Walbran Valle and other remaining pockets of old growth; and
  • Most Canadians support sustainable harvesting of second and third growth forests, but do not support logging old-growth trees or destroying their surrounding ecosystems.
We, the undersigned, Citizens of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to:
  • 1. Work with the provinces and First Nations to immediately halt logging of endangered old-growth ecosystems;
  • 2. Fund the long-term protection of old-growth ecosystems as a priority for Canada's climate action plan and reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples;
  • 3. Support value-added forestry initiatives in partnership with First Nations to ensure Canada's forestry industry is sustainable, and based on the harvesting of second and third growth forests;
  • 4. Ban the export of raw logs and maximize resource use for local jobs; and
  • 5. Ban the use of whole trees for wood pellet biofuel production.
Response by the Minister of Energy and Natural ResourcesSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, P.C., M.P.Canada’s forests provide a wealth of environmental, economic, social and cultural benefits to Canadians. The forestry sector in Canada is governed by provincial legislation, regulations and policies. Through careful monitoring and planning, Canada’s forest sector manages the long-term health of its forests, both safeguarding these benefits in the face of challenges and finding new opportunities in a changing world.Finding solutions also means working with Indigenous communities and leaders so that forest management and conservation practices are informed by Indigenous knowledge systems. Through the Indigenous Forestry Initiative (IFI), Natural Resources Canada (NRCan) is providing financial support to Indigenous-led projects and Indigenous-identified priorities in the forest sector. The IFI was recently renewed until 2024-2025 with a $10M contributions budget and a new $3M grants stream. During the renewal process, IFI heard communities’ call for change to support broader priorities in the sector and to support projects that accelerate Indigenous awareness, influence, inclusion, and leadership. With the new grants stream, Indigenous communities can access financial support to prepare for and participate in engagement and consultation activities, such as sustainable forest management planning with industry and government. Other eligible projects that support the sustainability of Canada’s forest industry include gathering, developing, using, and protecting Indigenous knowledge and science, Indigenous leadership and participation in forest stewardship and economic development opportunities. Since 2017, the program has supported 133 Indigenous-led, forest-based economic development projects, invested almost $17M in capital, and helped to create more than 625 jobs and 54 new or expanded businesses.British Columbia’s iconic old growth forests have deep-rooted cultural significance to Indigenous communities and are important to all British Columbians. They are also critical habitats for dozens of species at risk and migratory birds and are important natural stores of carbon.The British Columbia Old Growth Nature Fund established by the Departments of Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) and NRCan commits $50 million to advance shared objectives regarding urgent protection of vital ecosystems, wildlife habitats and species at risk while also protecting carbon stores in old growth forests. The Old Growth Nature Fund has been established in collaboration with the Province of British Columbia, non-governmental organizations, and Indigenous and local communities.This collaborative work to protect communities and diverse natural habitats, including by advancing Indigenous-led conservation efforts, is also crucial to securing a cleaner, healthier, and greener future for Canadians. The Old Growth Nature Fund further complements the Enhanced Nature Legacy announced in 2021, and the Natural Climate Solutions Fund announced in 2020.Canada boasts the most forest area certified by internationally recognized, third-party systems as being managed in a sustainable way, respecting ecological values and Indigenous rights. Three quarters of Canada’s managed public forests are certified to one or more of three sustainable forest management certification systems: the Sustainable Forestry Initiative, the Forest Stewardship Council, and the Canadian Standards Association. As with all forest industries in Canada, the wood pellet industry is governed by provincial legislation, regulations and policies that are the basis for sustainable forest management and include protections for old growth forests. Strict monitoring and enforcement measures ensure that Canada’s forests are harvested legally and sustainably.Canadian wood pellets are primarily made from sawmill residues that are by-products of wood product manufacturing. The industry also uses branches and treetops from harvest operations, logs damaged by natural disturbances, or trees that are cut to manage long-term ecological values in the forest. If not used, these additional sources of wood fibre are typically left to decompose into the atmosphere or may be burned onsite.Supporting markets for all material harvested, as part of a sustainable forest management plan, ensures that no part of the harvested tree is wasted, and delivers economic benefits to Canadians.Finally, as part of Budget 2023, Canada announced $368.4 million over three years, starting in 2023-2024 to NRCan to renew and update forest sector support, including for Indigenous leadership in the sector.
Response by the Minister of Environment and Climate ChangeSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable STEVEN GUILBEAULTCanada is home to ecosystems that are globally significant in their capacity to absorb carbon, mitigate the impacts of climate change, and protect biodiversity. This includes 24% of the world’s wetlands, 25% of temperate rainforest areas and 28% of remaining boreal forests. In this context, the Government of Canada understands that the dual crises of climate change and biodiversity loss are connected and need to be tackled together.That said, conservation and protection of Canada’s forests, including old growth forests and ecosystems, is a shared responsibility. The vast majority of Canada's forests are located on provincial and territorial Crown lands. In British Columbia (B.C.), approximately 96% of forests are on provincial Crown land, where, under the Constitution Act, 1867, forest management is the jurisdiction of the provincial government. As such, forest management on those lands is within the jurisdiction of the B.C. government. At the same time, there is an important federal role to conserve migratory bird habitat, protect critical habitat of federally listed species at risk, and mitigate climate change.With this in mind, the mandate letters of the Ministers of Environment and Climate Change and Natural Resources include a commitment to help protect old growth forests, notably in B.C., by reaching a Nature Agreement with B.C., establishing a $50 million B.C. Old Growth Nature Fund, and ensuring First Nations, local communities and workers are partners in shaping the path forward for nature protection. This $50 million investment was made through Budget 2022, and a contribution agreement was signed with B.C. in March 2023.The Old Growth Nature Fund will deliver on the Ministers’ mandate letters by providing $50 million to the Government of B.C., to be matched by B.C., to permanently protect and conserve old growth forests in the province. The Fund focuses on protecting at-risk high productivity old growth forests that are of prime biodiversity value identified as important for species at risk, migratory birds, climate mitigation and reconciliation with Indigenous peoples. Specifically, federal funding supports planning and collaboration with B.C. and Indigenous communities, and provides incentives for third-party funders to permanently protect and conserve large areas of at-risk old growth forests in the province. For example, the 58,000-hectare Incomappleux Valley Conservancy in the B.C. interior was created, in-part, thanks to investments under the Old Growth Nature Fund.The Old Growth Nature Fund will be a key component of the Tripartite Framework Agreement on Nature Conservation, which was signed on November 3, 2023, in Vancouver between Canada, B.C and the First Nations Leadership Council. The Framework Agreement presents a unique opportunity to collaboratively advance nature conservation, species at risk and climate mitigation objectives in collaboration with provincial and Indigenous partners. With regard to old growth specifically, work together under the Framework Agreement will include efforts to protect the habitat of old growth-associated species such as Marbled Murrelet. In so doing, the Agreement will build on recent announcements from the Government of B.C. concerning moratoria on old growth forest harvesting, and to launch a provincial Conservation Finance Mechanism to protect ecosystems including forests.The Government of Canada appreciates that, in addition to their habitat functions, forests are key to the health of the climate, influencing rainfall, temperature, and other metrics. Temperate old growth forests, like those in B.C., also function as important carbon reservoirs.Appreciating the significance of forests to biodiversity conservation and climate, the federal government has contributed to protecting nearly 400,000 hectares of forest habitat in B.C. This includes conservation projects under programs such as the Target 1 Challenge, Natural Heritage Conservation Program, Ecological Gifts Program, and others.Alongside this work, the federal government has made forests a central part of Canada’s plan to tackle climate change. The Old Growth Nature Fund in particular is expected to contribute directly to the Government of Canada's commitments to achieve Canada’s 2030 greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions reduction goal and net-zero GHG emissions by 2050. The old growth temperate rainforests of B.C. are among the largest natural carbon sinks in the world (on a per hectare basis) and are among the most efficient ecosystems at capturing carbon in Canada.Complementing this effort on a broader scale, the Government of Canada has also announced a series of funding initiatives of significance to forest ecosystems and forestry in Canada:
  • Natural Climate Solutions is investing more than $5 billion over ten years to restore, better manage, and conserve Canada’s natural and managed ecosystems. This initiative includes three complementary programs:
    • 2 Billion Trees program, led by Natural Resources Canada;
    • Nature Smart Climate Solutions Fund (NSCSF), led by Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC); and
    • The Agricultural Climate Solutions (ACS) program, led by Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada.
  • The NSCSF is a $1.4 billion, 10-year (2021-2031) fund to reduce 5-7 megatons of GHG emissions annually. Up to $36.9 million in funding has been allocated to support Indigenous communities to deliver projects that build capacity and advance Indigenous-led efforts on natural climate solutions, with a focus on improved management, conservation, and restoration of wetlands, grasslands and forests that result in reduced and captured GHG emissions.
  • Enhanced Nature Legacy provides $2.3 billion in new funding over five years (2021-2026) that will further contribute to the implementation of conservation measures for Canada’s land and freshwater ecosystems and wildlife. This includes the establishment of new federal, provincial and territorial protected areas, other effective area-based conservation measures, Indigenous Protected and Conserved Areas, and additional habitat restoration. It also included the announcement of further investments through the Low Carbon Economy Fund, a $2 billion fund that could, amongst other things, incent provinces to leave timber standing (for example, by creating other revenue streams for forests).
The broader significance of Canada’s forests is also recognized in the Pan-Canadian Approach to Transforming Species at Risk Conservation in Canada where forests are identified as a priority sector. Development of a conservation action plan for species at risk is currently underway in collaboration with forest sector partners and stakeholders to advance the protection and recovery of species at risk and enhance sector sustainability.With respect to support for Indigenous community involvement in ecosystem protection and climate action, including in forests and more broadly, it should be noted that under the NSCSF, described above, an Indigenous Partnership (NSCSF-IP) stream was established to provide targeted funding to enable Indigenous peoples to play a meaningful leadership role in natural climate solutions as part of the Government of Canada’s commitment to Reconciliation. Through the NSCSF-IP, ECCC supports Indigenous organizations and communities to undertake Indigenous-led capacity building activities and on-the-ground projects for ecological restoration, improved land management, and conservation of wetlands, grasslands, agricultural lands and forests that result in reduced GHG emissions, and that maximize co-benefits for biodiversity, climate resiliency, and human well-being.Beyond this, ECCC has also funded approximately 115 First Nations, Inuit and Métis Guardians initiatives since 2017 with investments totaling over $46 million. Indigenous Guardians initiatives support Indigenous rights and responsibilities in protecting and conserving ecosystems including old-growth forests, developing and maintaining sustainable economies, and continuing the profound connections between the Canadian landscape and Indigenous culture. Indigenous Guardians are Indigenous peoples exercising their cultural responsibilities through on-the-ground stewardship of traditional lands, waters, air, and ice. They act as the “eyes and ears on the ground”. Indigenous Guardians funding supports on-the-ground activities such as ecological and cultural resource monitoring, restoration, and visitor experience activities, contribution to cultural continuity (e.g., intergenerational knowledge transmission) and implementation of Indigenous conservation practices and Indigenous knowledge.  
Response by the Minister of Export Promotion, International Trade and Economic Development Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Maninder SidhuForests provide a wide range of economic, social and environmental benefits for people and communities across Canada. They are a major source of income and employment for 300 communities across the country, directly employing 205,000 workers, including over 11,500 Indigenous workers. Canada is committed to Indigenous reconciliation and recognize the importance of natural resources to Indigenous Peoples.With respect to the proposal to ban the export of raw logs, logs are integral to the domestic manufacturing industry for a wide range of forest products including softwood lumber and other products like high value finished veneer panels. Domestic and international trade in logs is important for log harvesters and Canadian trade. The policy and process governing the export of logs harvested in British Columbia contained in Global Affairs Canada’s Notice to Exporters No. 102 form an important part of the Government’s efforts to ensure the right balance between log exports and domestic policy objectives.The Government regularly reviews policies to ensure that Canada’s domestic policy objectives and trade opportunities are maximized and welcomes all ideas and proposals related to its policies, including those associated with the export of raw logs. The Government is committed to continuing to work and collaborate closely with Indigenous Peoples and all stakeholders and partners on this issue to achieve the best possible results for Canada.
Environmental protectionForest policyIndigenous policy
44th Parliament223Government response tabledDecember 7, 2023441-01819441-01819 (Environment)LeslynLewisHaldimand—NorfolkConservativeONOctober 24, 2023December 7, 2023October 11, 2023Petition to the House of Commons in Parliament assembled, the Member of Parliament for Haldimand-Norfolk, the Minister of Transport and the Minister of Environment and Climate ChangeWHEREAS:Our quality and tranquility of life and enjoyment of our property has been taken from us due to Skydive Ontario and CAF2, Cayuga East Aerodrome;The excessive noise of multiple aircraft, screaming parachutists, as well as unsafe operations and trespassing issues by the parachutists have robbed us of our right to enjoy/use our properties, as it would be expected in this area;There is an increase in exhaust fumes from the aircraft and an increased risk of lead contamination from the leaded avgas used in these aircraft; andThis operation has no place in an area zoned as "Protected Agricultural Wetlands" and in close proximity to several wetland restoration projects.Therefore, we, the undersigned citizens of Canada, call upon the House of Commons in Parliament assembled, the Member of Parliament for Haldimand-Norfolk, the Minister of Transport and the Minister of Environment and Climate Change to have this operation closed down, not only for the safety and well-being of the residents, but to preserve the natural environment that we all once enjoyed.
Response by the Minister of Transport Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Pablo RodriguezTransport Canada is aware of the business operations of Skydive Ontario, based at the Cayuga East Aerodrome (CAF2) and the impacts on the surrounding community. A history of complaints has been submitted to the Department regarding Skydive Ontario, including issues such as: noise; unsafe flying; low flying; flying in clouds; flying at night; firearms use; wildlife management; the construction of a hangar; lead pollution; etc. To date, there have been no regulatory non-conformities identified by Transport Canada officials. Additionally, departmental officials have maintained a dialogue with the operator to advise of the community concerns and have been informed of accommodations made in an attempt to address some of the issues. One of the mitigation strategies to address noise and low flying includes the implementation of their Noise Program, which includes varied departure and arrival paths, along with minimized power during approaches. While the Department understands this is a difficult issue experienced by the community, Transport Canada’s experience shows that these matters are most effectively addressed at the local community level, and it is recommended that the community and the air operator engage in constructive dialogue to work towards a feasible solution. Complaints regarding trespassing on private property should be directed to the local law enforcement agencies by the residents. As the safety regulator for aviation in Canada, Transport Canada exercises its authority through the Aeronautics Act and the Canadian Aviation Regulations. Accordingly, within the Department’s jurisdictional authority, various surveillance activities have been conducted to follow-up on the reports provided by the community, and no regulatory non-conformities have been identified.  
AirportsCayuga East AerodromeEnvironmental protection
44th Parliament223Government response tabledDecember 1, 2023441-01770441-01770 (Environment)MikeMorriceKitchener CentreGreen PartyONOctober 18, 2023December 1, 2023September 15, 2023PETITION TO THE GOVERNMENT OF CANADAWHEREAS: Enbridge Line 5 has been operating for 70 years, over which time it has repeatedly spilled oil in Wisconsin and Michigan, and helped turn Sarnia, Ontario into the most polluted place in North America;Continued operation of this decrepit tar sands pipeline is posing an imminent threat to the Bad River and Lake Superior, with rapid erosion at a meander bringing the River frighteningly close to the pipeline;A pipeline rupture at this location would destroy the Kakagon and Bad River Sloughs, home of wild rice beds, the physical, cultural, and spiritual foundation of the Lake Superior Chippewa peoples;Continued operation of Line 5 would further degrade the global climate; and the biodiversity, ecosystems, and cultures of the Great Lakes watershed; and gravely threaten 21% of the world's freshwater and the drinking water of 40 million people;Enbridge no longer has legal permission to operate Line 5 in the Bad River Reservation or Straits of Mackinac, since the Bad River Band of Lake Superior Chippewa and State of Michigan revoked their easements in 2013 and 2020, respectively;The Bay Mills Indian Community issued a "Banishment of Enbridge Energy, Inc. Line 5 Dual Pipelines from the 1836 Treaty of Washington Ceded Territory, Waters of the Great Lakes, and the Straits of Mackinac";The United Nations Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues has called for decommissioning Line 5;The Agreement between the Government of Canada and the Government of the United States of America Concerning Transit Pipelines (henceforth "the 1977 Agreement") provides for environmental protection against pipelines;Treaties with the US authorize the Lake Superior Chippewa to prevent the re-routing and elongation of Line 5 in Wisconsin, and tunnel for Line 5 in Michigan, that Enbridge has proposed;The International Energy Agency and Secretary General of the United Nations oppose construction of any new fossil fuel infrastructure, such as the aforementioned re-routing, elongation, and tunnel;The Government of Canada did not acknowledge any of the facts stated above when invoking the Agreement on October 4th, 2021 and again on August 29th, 2022 to keep Line 5 in operation; andNearly 300 organizations and more than 5,000 individuals have signed a letter calling on government ministers to stop invoking the Agreement in this way.WE, THE UNDERSIGNED residents of Canada, CALL UPON THE GOVERNMENT OF CANADA TO retract any and all use of the 1977 Agreement to keep Enbridge Line 5 in operation.
Response by the Minister of Foreign AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Pam DanoffClimate change is an undeniable reality. That’s why the Government of Canada introduced Canada’s most comprehensive climate plan, making historic investments to build job-creating clean energy projects, and implementing a price on pollution which returns all proceeds to Canadians while significantly cutting pollution across the country. More than ever, the Government is firmly committed to ensuring Canada’s energy and economic security, while taking important steps to fight climate change and protect the environment for future generations.Canada has invoked the dispute settlement mechanism of the 1977 Transit Pipelines Treaty (the “Treaty”) twice concerning Line 5, first on October 4, 2021 on the pipeline segment in the Straits of Mackinac (Michigan), and again on August 29, 2022 on the pipeline segment on the Bad River Band Reservation (Wisconsin). This treaty ensures the uninterrupted transmission of hydrocarbons in transit—in the case of Line 5, light crude oil and natural gas liquids—from one place in Canada to another place in Canada, transiting through the United States.Line 5 not only helps provide energy that is essential for empowering a resilient Canadian economy, it also supplies energy to business owners and residents in the Midwestern United States, including Wisconsin. Canada and the United States share a vision for a sustainable and inclusive economic growth that strengthens the middle class, creates more opportunities for them, and ensures people have good jobs and careers on both sides of the border. Both Canadians and Americans expect their governments to strengthen Canada-U.S. supply chain security and work to reinforce this deeply interconnected and mutually beneficial economic relationship.The economic and energy disruption and damage to Canada and the U.S. from a Line 5 shutdown would be widespread and significant:
  • Line 5 is a key west-to-east outlet for Alberta and Saskatchewan production of light crude oil and natural gas liquids.
  • Line 5 supplies six refineries in Ontario and Quebec, including the refinery and petrochemical complex in Sarnia. In the U.S., Line 5 supplies four refineries in Michigan, Ohio and Pennsylvania. A 2021 third-party study of impacts in the U.S. Midwest indicated a shutdown would threaten more than 33,000 U.S. jobs and jeopardize US$20 billion in economic activity.
  • Line 5 also supplies three propane production facilities, in Wisconsin, Michigan and Sarnia (Ontario), which supply critical rural and agricultural needs in the Great Lakes region, on both sides of the border.
  • A Line 5 shutdown would also impact energy prices, such as propane for heating homes and the price of gas at the pump. As global market forces and inflation continue to hit Canadians, the Government must avoid putting additional pressure on the monthly budgets of Canadian families.
  • Furthermore, such a closure would directly impact the energy security of both Canada and the United States. At a time of heightened concern over energy security and supply, including during the energy transition, maintaining and protecting existing infrastructure should be a top priority. Canada has raised these concerns with the U.S. on numerous occasions.
Canada is committed to the process of reconciliation and protecting the rights of Indigenous peoples in Canada, including as recognized in the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. This includes respecting the rights of the Bad River Band, such as in relation to governance of its Reservation.Alongside many U.S.-based local, state, and national organizations, Canada strongly supports the proposed replacement infrastructure solution, which would re-route Line 5 outside the Bad River Band Reservation and is currently undergoing state and federal permitting review.In the case of the Line 5 segment in the Straits of Mackinac, Canada, along with many U.S.-based partners, supports the Great Lakes Tunnel Project. This solution, also undergoing state and federal permitting reviews, will replace the existing Line 5 segment in the Straits by placing it within a tunnel under the Straits.These infrastructure solutions will keep Line 5 operating, further protect the environment including the iconic waters of the Great Lakes, meet critical energy needs in both Canada and the U.S. as we fight climate change and build net-zero economies, while responding to concerns expressed by Indigenous peoples, and fulfilling the Bad River Band’s desire to remove the pipeline segment from its Reservation.
Environmental protectionOil and gasPipeline transportation
44th Parliament207Open for signatureNovember 29, 2023e-4706e-4706 (Environment)ShantiScarpetta-LeeDonDaviesVancouver KingswayNDPBCNovember 29, 2023, at 4:55 p.m. (EDT)March 28, 2024, at 4:55 p.m. (EDT)Petition to the <Addressee type="1" affiliationId="" mp-riding-display="1">House of Commons</Addressee>Whereas:Worldwide, 80 billion pieces of clothing are consumed every year, a 400% increase from only twenty years ago. However, approximately 85% of these textiles end up in a landfill every year;Fast fashion generates enormous amounts of waste, from production cutoffs to discarded clothing. 57% of all discarded clothing ends up in landfill, contributing to the growing problem of textile waste;The entire lifecycle of fast fashion, from production and transportation to disposal, contributes to greenhouse gas emissions. This exacerbates climate change, impacting ecosystems and biodiversity;The fast fashion industry is a significant contributor to the climate crisis, responsible for as much as 10% of global carbon dioxide emissions, as much as the European Union; andIf the industry maintains its course, an increase of 50% in greenhouse gas emissions is expected within a decade.We, the undersigned, residents of the Province of British Columbia, call upon the House of Commons to take immediate and decisive action to address the environmental impacts of the fast fashion industry. Specifically, we urge the implementation of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) regulations tailored to the fashion and textile sector. We call upon the House of Commons to mandate an addition to the current EPR legislation across provinces to address textiles. This could include waste collection programs, establishing design standards for recyclability, providing financial incentives for sustainable design, and requiring transparent reporting on environmental efforts within the industry.Environmental protectionExtended producer responsibilityTextile and apparel goods industry44th Parliament223Government response tabledNovember 20, 2023441-01748441-01748 (Environment)ElizabethMaySaanich—Gulf IslandsGreen PartyBCOctober 6, 2023November 20, 2023September 22, 2022Petition to the Government of CanadaWhereas:
  • Indigenous peoples have rights and title to their traditional territories and have been stewards of these lands since time immemorial;
  • The climate crisis requires action by all levels of government and industry;
  • Old-growth forests provide immeasurable benefits, including carbon sequestration, biodiversity, culture, recreation, education, food and more;
  • Valley-bottom high productivity old-growth ecosystems in British Columbia are endangered;
  • Of the remaining 2.7% of original high productivity old-growth forests in British Columbia, 75% are still slated to be logged;
  • Only 9% of the original 360,000 hectares of valley-bottom high productivity old-growth on Vancouver Island remain today, and only 2.6% of those forests are protected in parks;
  • The last unprotected intact old-growth valley on Southern Vancouver Island, Fairy Creek, is slated for logging, along with the upper Walbran Valle and other remaining pockets of old growth; and
  • Most Canadians support sustainable harvesting of second and third growth forests, but do not support logging old-growth trees or destroying their surrounding ecosystems.
We, the undersigned, Citizens of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to:
  • 1. Work with the provinces and First Nations to immediately halt logging of endangered old-growth ecosystems;
  • 2. Fund the long-term protection of old-growth ecosystems as a priority for Canada's climate action plan and reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples;
  • 3. Support value-added forestry initiatives in partnership with First Nations to ensure Canada's forestry industry is sustainable, and based on the harvesting of second and third growth forests;
  • 4. Ban the export of raw logs and maximize resource use for local jobs; and
  • 5. Ban the use of whole trees for wood pellet biofuel production.
Response by the Minister of Energy and Natural ResourcesSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, P.C., M.P.Canada’s forests provide a wealth of environmental, economic, social and cultural benefits to Canadians. The forestry sector in Canada is governed by provincial legislation, regulations and policies. Through careful monitoring and planning, Canada’s forest sector manages the long-term health of its forests, both safeguarding these benefits in the face of challenges and finding new opportunities in a changing world.Finding solutions also means working with Indigenous communities and leaders so that forest management and conservation practices are informed by Indigenous knowledge systems. Through the Indigenous Forestry Initiative (IFI), Natural Resources Canada (NRCan) is providing financial support to Indigenous-led projects and Indigenous-identified priorities in the forest sector. The IFI was recently renewed until 2024-2025 with a $10M contributions budget and a new $3M grants stream. During the renewal process, IFI heard communities’ call for change to support broader priorities in the sector and to support projects that accelerate Indigenous awareness, influence, inclusion, and leadership. With the new grants stream, Indigenous communities can access financial support to prepare for and participate in engagement and consultation activities, such as sustainable forest management planning with industry and government. Other eligible projects that support the sustainability of Canada’s forest industry include gathering, developing, using, and protecting Indigenous knowledge and science, Indigenous leadership and participation in forest stewardship and economic development opportunities. Since 2017, the program has supported 133 Indigenous-led, forest-based economic development projects, invested almost $17M in capital, and helped to create more than 625 jobs and 54 new or expanded businesses.British Columbia’s iconic old growth forests have deep-rooted cultural significance to Indigenous communities and are important to all British Columbians. They are also critical habitats for dozens of species at risk and migratory birds and are important natural stores of carbon.The British Columbia Old Growth Nature Fund established by the Departments of Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) and NRCan commits $50 million to advance shared objectives regarding urgent protection of vital ecosystems, wildlife habitats and species at risk while also protecting carbon stores in old growth forests. The Old Growth Nature Fund has been established in collaboration with the Province of British Columbia, non-governmental organizations, and Indigenous and local communities.This collaborative work to protect communities and diverse natural habitats, including by advancing Indigenous-led conservation efforts, is also crucial to securing a cleaner, healthier, and greener future for Canadians. The Old Growth Nature Fund further complements the Enhanced Nature Legacy announced in 2021, and the Natural Climate Solutions Fund announced in 2020.Canada boasts the most forest area certified by internationally recognized, third-party systems as being managed in a sustainable way, respecting ecological values and Indigenous rights. Three quarters of Canada’s managed public forests are certified to one or more of three sustainable forest management certification systems: the Sustainable Forestry Initiative, the Forest Stewardship Council, and the Canadian Standards Association. As with all forest industries in Canada, the wood pellet industry is governed by provincial legislation, regulations and policies that are the basis for sustainable forest management and include protections for old growth forests. Strict monitoring and enforcement measures ensure that Canada’s forests are harvested legally and sustainably.Canadian wood pellets are primarily made from sawmill residues that are by-products of wood product manufacturing. The industry also uses branches and treetops from harvest operations, logs damaged by natural disturbances, or trees that are cut to manage long-term ecological values in the forest. If not used, these additional sources of wood fibre are typically left to decompose into the atmosphere or may be burned onsite.Supporting markets for all material harvested, as part of a sustainable forest management plan, ensures that no part of the harvested tree is wasted, and delivers economic benefits to Canadians.Finally, as part of Budget 2023, Canada announced $368.4 million over three years, starting in 2023-2024 to NRCan to renew and update forest sector support, including for Indigenous leadership in the sector.
Response by the Minister of Export Promotion, International Trade and Economic Development Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Maninder SidhuForests provide a wide range of economic, social and environmental benefits for people and communities across Canada. They are a major source of income and employment for 300 communities across the country, directly employing 205,000 workers, including over 11,500 Indigenous workers. Canada is committed to Indigenous reconciliation and recognize the importance of natural resources to Indigenous Peoples.With respect to the proposal to ban the export of raw logs, logs are integral to the domestic manufacturing industry for a wide range of forest products including softwood lumber and other products like high value finished veneer panels. Domestic and international trade in logs is important for log harvesters and Canadian trade. The policy and process governing the export of logs harvested in British Columbia contained in Global Affairs Canada’s Notice to Exporters No. 102 form an important part of the Government’s efforts to ensure the right balance between log exports and domestic policy objectives.The Government regularly reviews policies to ensure that Canada’s domestic policy objectives and trade opportunities are maximized and welcomes all ideas and proposals related to its policies, including those associated with the export of raw logs. The Government is committed to continuing to work and collaborate closely with Indigenous Peoples and all stakeholders and partners on this issue to achieve the best possible results for Canada.
Response by the Minister of Environment and Climate ChangeSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable STEVEN GUILBEAULTCanada is home to ecosystems that are globally significant in their capacity to absorb carbon, mitigate the impacts of climate change, and protect biodiversity. This includes 24% of the world’s wetlands, 25% of temperate rainforest areas and 28% of remaining boreal forests. In this context, the Government of Canada understands that the dual crises of climate change and biodiversity loss are connected and need to be tackled together.That said, conservation and protection of Canada’s forests, including old growth forests and ecosystems, is a shared responsibility. The vast majority of Canada's forests are located on provincial and territorial Crown lands. In British Columbia (B.C.), approximately 96% of forests are on provincial Crown land, where, under the Constitution Act, 1867, forest management is the jurisdiction of the provincial government. As such, forest management on those lands is within the jurisdiction of the B.C. government. At the same time, there is an important federal role to conserve migratory bird habitat, protect critical habitat of federally listed species at risk, and mitigate climate change.With this in mind, the mandate letters of the Ministers of Environment and Climate Change and Natural Resources include a commitment to help protect old growth forests, notably in B.C., by reaching a Nature Agreement with B.C., establishing a $50 million B.C. Old Growth Nature Fund, and ensuring First Nations, local communities and workers are partners in shaping the path forward for nature protection. This $50 million investment was made through Budget 2022, and a contribution agreement was signed with B.C. in March 2023.The Old Growth Nature Fund will deliver on the Ministers’ mandate letters by providing $50 million to the Government of B.C., to be matched by B.C., to permanently protect and conserve old growth forests in the province. The Fund focuses on protecting at-risk high productivity old growth forests that are of prime biodiversity value identified as important for species at risk, migratory birds, climate mitigation and reconciliation with Indigenous peoples. Specifically, federal funding supports planning and collaboration with B.C. and Indigenous communities, and provides incentives for third-party funders to permanently protect and conserve large areas of at-risk old growth forests in the province. For example, the 58,000-hectare Incomappleux Valley Conservancy in the B.C. interior was created, in-part, thanks to investments under the Old Growth Nature Fund.The Old Growth Nature Fund will be a key component of the Tripartite Framework Agreement on Nature Conservation, which was signed on November 3, 2023 in Vancouver between Canada, B.C and the First Nations Leadership Council. The Framework Agreement presents a unique opportunity to collaboratively advance nature conservation, species at risk and climate mitigation objectives in collaboration with provincial and Indigenous partners. With regard to old growth specifically, work together under the Framework Agreement will include efforts to protect the habitat of old growth-associated species such as Marbled Murrelet. In so doing, the Agreement will build on recent announcements from the Government of B.C. concerning moratoria on old growth forest harvesting, and to launch a provincial Conservation Finance Mechanism to protect ecosystems including forests.The Government of Canada appreciates that, in addition to their habitat functions, forests are key to the health of the climate, influencing rainfall, temperature, and other metrics. Temperate old growth forests, like those in B.C., also function as important carbon reservoirs.Appreciating the significance of forests to biodiversity conservation and climate, the federal government has contributed to protecting nearly 400,000 hectares of forest habitat in B.C. This includes conservation projects under programs such as the Target 1 Challenge, Natural Heritage Conservation Program, Ecological Gifts Program, and others.Alongside this work, the federal government has made forests a central part of Canada’s plan to tackle climate change. The Old Growth Nature Fund in particular is expected to contribute directly to the Government of Canada's commitments to achieve Canada’s 2030 greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions reduction goal and net-zero GHG emissions by 2050. The old growth temperate rainforests of B.C. are among the largest natural carbon sinks in the world (on a per hectare basis) and are among the most efficient ecosystems at capturing carbon in Canada.Complementing this effort on a broader scale, the Government of Canada has also announced a series of funding initiatives of significance to forest ecosystems and forestry in Canada:
  • Natural Climate Solutions is investing more than $5 billion over ten years to restore, better manage, and conserve Canada’s natural and managed ecosystems. This initiative includes three complementary programs:
    • 2 Billion Trees program, led by Natural Resources Canada;
    • Nature Smart Climate Solutions Fund (NSCSF), led by Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC); and
    • The Agricultural Climate Solutions (ACS) program, led by Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada.
  • The NSCSF is a $1.4 billion 10-year (2021-2031) fund to reduce 5-7 megatons of GHG emissions annually. Up to $36.9 million in funding has been allocated to support Indigenous communities to deliver projects that build capacity and advance Indigenous-led efforts on natural climate solutions, with a focus on improved management, conservation, and restoration of wetlands, grasslands and forests that result in reduced and captured GHG emissions.
  • Enhanced Nature Legacy provides $2.3 billion in new funding over five years (2021-2026) that will further contribute to the implementation of conservation measures for Canada’s land and freshwater ecosystems and wildlife. This includes the establishment of new federal, provincial and territorial protected areas, other effective area-based conservation measures, Indigenous Protected and Conserved Areas, and additional habitat restoration. It also included the announcement of further investments through the Low Carbon Economy Fund, a $2 billion fund that could, amongst other things, incent provinces to leave timber standing (for example, by creating other revenue streams for forests).
The broader significance of Canada’s forests is also recognized in the Pan-Canadian Approach to Transforming Species at Risk Conservation in Canada where forests are identified as a priority sector. Development of a conservation action plan for species at risk is currently underway in collaboration with forest sector partners and stakeholders to advance the protection and recovery of species at risk and enhance sector sustainability.With respect to support for Indigenous community involvement in ecosystem protection and climate action, including in forests and more broadly, it should be noted that under the NSCSF, described above, an Indigenous Partnership (NSCSF-IP) stream was established to provide targeted funding to enable Indigenous peoples to play a meaningful leadership role in natural climate solutions as part of the Government of Canada’s commitment to Reconciliation. Through the NSCSF-IP, ECCC supports Indigenous organizations and communities to undertake Indigenous-led capacity building activities and on-the-ground projects for ecological restoration, improved land management, and conservation of wetlands, grasslands, agricultural lands and forests that result in reduced GHG emissions, and that maximize co-benefits for biodiversity, climate resiliency, and human well-being.Beyond this, ECCC has also funded approximately 115 First Nations, Inuit and Métis Guardians initiatives since 2017 with investments totaling over $46 million. Indigenous Guardians initiatives support Indigenous rights and responsibilities in protecting and conserving ecosystems including old-growth forests, developing and maintaining sustainable economies, and continuing the profound connections between the Canadian landscape and Indigenous culture. Indigenous Guardians are Indigenous peoples exercising their cultural responsibilities through on-the-ground stewardship of traditional lands, waters, air, and ice. They act as the “eyes and ears on the ground”.  Indigenous Guardians funding supports on-the-ground activities such as ecological and cultural resource monitoring, restoration, and visitor experience activities, contribution to cultural continuity (e.g., intergenerational knowledge transmission) and implementation of Indigenous conservation practices and Indigenous knowledge.   
Environmental protectionForest policyIndigenous policy
44th Parliament223Government response tabledNovember 9, 2023441-01662441-01662 (Environment)ElizabethMaySaanich—Gulf IslandsGreen PartyBCSeptember 26, 2023November 9, 2023September 22, 2022Petition to the Government of CanadaWhereas:
  • Indigenous peoples have rights and title to their traditional territories and have been stewards of these lands since time immemorial;
  • The climate crisis requires action by all levels of government and industry;
  • Old-growth forests provide immeasurable benefits, including carbon sequestration, biodiversity, culture, recreation, education, food and more;
  • Valley-bottom high productivity old-growth ecosystems in British Columbia are endangered;
  • Of the remaining 2.7% of original high productivity old-growth forests in British Columbia, 75% are still slated to be logged;
  • Only 9% of the original 360,000 hectares of valley-bottom high productivity old-growth on Vancouver Island remain today, and only 2.6% of those forests are protected in parks;
  • The last unprotected intact old-growth valley on Southern Vancouver Island, Fairy Creek, is slated for logging, along with the upper Walbran Valle and other remaining pockets of old growth; and
  • Most Canadians support sustainable harvesting of second and third growth forests, but do not support logging old-growth trees or destroying their surrounding ecosystems.
We, the undersigned, Citizens of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to:
  • 1. Work with the provinces and First Nations to immediately halt logging of endangered old-growth ecosystems;
  • 2. Fund the long-term protection of old-growth ecosystems as a priority for Canada's climate action plan and reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples;
  • 3. Support value-added forestry initiatives in partnership with First Nations to ensure Canada's forestry industry is sustainable, and based on the harvesting of second and third growth forests;
  • 4. Ban the export of raw logs and maximize resource use for local jobs; and
  • 5. Ban the use of whole trees for wood pellet biofuel production.
Response by the Minister of Energy and Natural ResourcesSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, P.C., M.P.Canada’s forests provide a wealth of environmental, economic, social and cultural benefits to Canadians. The forestry sector in Canada is governed by provincial legislation, regulations and policies. Through careful monitoring and planning, Canada’s forest sector manages the long-term health of its forests, both safeguarding these benefits in the face of challenges and finding new opportunities in a changing world.Finding solutions also means working with Indigenous communities and leaders so that forest management and conservation practices are informed by Indigenous knowledge systems. Through the Indigenous Forestry Initiative (IFI), Natural Resources Canada (NRCan) is providing financial support to Indigenous-led projects and Indigenous-identified priorities in the forest sector. The IFI was recently renewed until 2024-2025 with a $10M contributions budget and a new $3M grants stream. During the renewal process, IFI heard communities’ call for change to support broader priorities in the sector and to support projects that accelerate Indigenous awareness, influence, inclusion, and leadership. With the new grants stream, Indigenous communities can access financial support to prepare for and participate in engagement and consultation activities, such as sustainable forest management planning with industry and government. Other eligible projects that support the sustainability of Canada’s forest industry include gathering, developing, using, and protecting Indigenous knowledge and science, Indigenous leadership and participation in forest stewardship and economic development opportunities. Since 2017, the program has supported 133 Indigenous-led, forest-based economic development projects, invested almost $17M in capital, and helped to create more than 625 jobs and 54 new or expanded businesses.British Columbia’s iconic old growth forests have deep-rooted cultural significance to Indigenous communities and are important to all British Columbians. They are also critical habitats for dozens of species at risk and migratory birds and are important natural stores of carbon.The British Columbia Old Growth Nature Fund established by the Departments of Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) and NRCan commits $50 million to advance shared objectives regarding urgent protection of vital ecosystems, wildlife habitats and species at risk while also protecting carbon stores in old growth forests. The Old Growth Nature Fund has been established in collaboration with the Province of British Columbia, non-governmental organizations, and Indigenous and local communities.This collaborative work to protect communities and diverse natural habitats, including by advancing Indigenous-led conservation efforts, is also crucial to securing a cleaner, healthier, and greener future for Canadians. The Old Growth Nature Fund further complements the Enhanced Nature Legacy announced in 2021, and the Natural Climate Solutions Fund announced in 2020.Canada boasts the most forest area certified by internationally recognized, third-party systems as being managed in a sustainable way, respecting ecological values and Indigenous rights. Three quarters of Canada’s managed public forests are certified to one or more of three sustainable forest management certification systems: the Sustainable Forestry Initiative, the Forest Stewardship Council, and the Canadian Standards Association. As with all forest industries in Canada, the wood pellet industry is governed by provincial legislation, regulations and policies that are the basis for sustainable forest management and include protections for old growth forests. Strict monitoring and enforcement measures ensure that Canada’s forests are harvested legally and sustainably.Canadian wood pellets are primarily made from sawmill residues that are by-products of wood product manufacturing. The industry also uses branches and treetops from harvest operations, logs damaged by natural disturbances, or trees that are cut to manage long-term ecological values in the forest. If not used, these additional sources of wood fibre are typically left to decompose into the atmosphere or may be burned onsite.Supporting markets for all material harvested, as part of a sustainable forest management plan, ensures that no part of the harvested tree is wasted, and delivers economic benefits to Canadians.Finally, as part of Budget 2023, Canada announced $368.4 million over three years, starting in 2023-2024 to NRCan to renew and update forest sector support, including for Indigenous leadership in the sector.
Response by the Minister of Export Promotion, International Trade and Economic Development Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Maninder SidhuForests provide a wide range of economic, social and environmental benefits for people and communities across Canada. They are a major source of income and employment for 300 communities across the country, directly employing 205,000 workers, including over 11,500 Indigenous workers. Canada is committed to Indigenous reconciliation and recognize the importance of natural resources to Indigenous Peoples.With respect to the proposal to ban the export of raw logs, logs are integral to the domestic manufacturing industry for a wide range of forest products including softwood lumber and other products like high value finished veneer panels. Domestic and international trade in logs is important for log harvesters and Canadian trade. The policy and process governing the export of logs harvested in British Columbia contained in Global Affairs Canada’s Notice to Exporters No. 102 form an important part of the Government’s efforts to ensure the right balance between log exports and domestic policy objectives.The Government regularly reviews policies to ensure that Canada’s domestic policy objectives and trade opportunities are maximized and welcomes all ideas and proposals related to its policies, including those associated with the export of raw logs. The Government is committed to continuing to work and collaborate closely with Indigenous Peoples and all stakeholders and partners on this issue to achieve the best possible results for Canada.
Response by the Minister of Environment and Climate ChangeSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable STEVEN GUILBEAULTCanada is home to ecosystems that are globally significant in their capacity to absorb carbon, mitigate the impacts of climate change, and protect biodiversity. This includes 24% of the world’s wetlands, 25% of temperate rainforest areas and 28% of remaining boreal forests. In this context, the Government of Canada understands that the dual crises of climate change and biodiversity loss are connected and need to be tackled together.That said, conservation and protection of Canada’s forests, including old-growth forests and ecosystems, is a shared responsibility. The vast majority of Canada's forests are located on provincial and territorial Crown lands. In British Columbia (B.C.), approximately 96% of forests are on provincial Crown land, where, under the Constitution Act, 1867, forest management is the jurisdiction of the provincial government. As such, forest management on those lands is within the jurisdiction of the B.C. government. At the same time, there is an important federal role to conserve migratory bird habitat, protect critical habitat of federally listed species at risk, and mitigate climate change.With this in mind, the mandate letters of the Ministers of Environment and Climate Change and Natural Resources include a commitment to help protect old-growth forests, notably in B.C., by reaching a Nature Agreement with B.C., establishing a $50 million B.C. Old Growth Nature Fund, and ensuring First Nations, local communities and workers are partners in shaping the path forward for nature protection. This $50 million investment was made through Budget 2022, and a contribution agreement was signed with B.C. in March 2023.The Old Growth Nature Fund will deliver on the Ministers’ mandate letters by providing $50 million to the Government of B.C., to be matched by B.C., to permanently protect and conserve old growth forests in the province. The Fund focuses on protecting at-risk high productivity old growth forests that are of prime biodiversity value identified as important for species at risk, migratory birds, climate mitigation and reconciliation with Indigenous peoples. Specifically, federal funding supports planning and collaboration with B.C. and Indigenous communities, and provides incentives for third-party funders to permanently protect and conserve large areas of at-risk old growth forests in the province. For example, the 58,000-hectare Incomappleux Valley Conservancy in the B.C. interior was created, in-part, thanks to investments under the Old Growth Nature Fund.The Old Growth Nature Fund will be a key component of the B.C. Nature Agreement, which is being co-developed between Canada, B.C and the First Nations Leadership Council (FNLC), and presents a unique opportunity to collaboratively advance nature conservation, species at risk and climate mitigation objectives in collaboration with provincial and Indigenous partners.To this end, and in light of recent announcements from the Government of B.C. concerning moratoria on old growth forest harvesting, departmental officials have been working with their provincial colleagues to finalize a tripartite Nature Agreement and to explore additional ways to encourage and support the province in its efforts to protect and restore habitat. This includes protecting the habitat of old growth-associated species such as Spotted Owl and Marbled Murrelet.The Government of Canada appreciates that, in addition to their habitat functions, forests are key to the health of the climate, influencing rainfall, temperature, and other metrics. Temperate old growth forests, like those in B.C., also function as important carbon reservoirs.Appreciating the significance of forests to biodiversity conservation and climate, the federal government has contributed to protecting nearly 400,000 hectares of forest habitat in B.C. This includes conservation projects under programs such as the Target 1 Challenge, Natural Heritage Conservation Program, Ecological Gifts Program, and others.Alongside this work, the federal government has made forests a central part of Canada’s plan to tackle climate change. The Old Growth Nature Fund in particular is expected to contribute directly to the Government of Canada's commitments to achieve Canada’s 2030 greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions reduction goal and net-zero GHG emissions by 2050. The old growth temperate rainforests of B.C. are among the largest natural carbon sinks in the world (on a per hectare basis) and are among the most efficient ecosystems at capturing carbon in Canada.Complementing this effort on a broader scale, the Government of Canada has also announced a series of funding initiatives of significance to forest ecosystems and forestry in Canada:
  • Natural Climate Solutions is investing more than $5 billion over ten years to restore, better manage, and conserve Canada’s natural and managed ecosystems. This initiative includes three complementary programs:
    • 2 Billion Trees program, led by Natural Resources Canada;
    • Nature Smart Climate Solutions Fund (NSCSF), led by Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC); an
    • The Agricultural Climate Solutions (ACS) program, led by Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada.
  • The NSCSF is a $1.4 billion 10-year (2021-2031) fund to reduce 5-7 megatons of GHG emissions annually. Up to $36.9 million in funding has been allocated to support Indigenous communities to deliver projects that build capacity and advance Indigenous-led efforts on natural climate solutions, with a focus on improved management, conservation, and restoration of wetlands, grasslands and forests that result in reduced and captured GHG emissions.
  • Enhanced Nature Legacy provides $2.3 billion in new funding over five years (2021-2026) that will further contribute to the implementation of conservation measures for Canada’s land and freshwater ecosystems and wildlife. This includes the establishment of new federal, provincial and territorial protected areas, other effective area-based conservation measures, Indigenous Protected and Conserved Areas, and additional habitat restoration. It also included the announcement of further investments through the Low Carbon Economy Fund, a $2 billion fund that could, amongst other things, incent provinces to leave timber standing (for example, by creating other revenue streams for forests).
The broader significance of Canada’s forests is also recognized in the Pan-Canadian Approach to Transforming Species at Risk Conservation in Canada where forests are identified as a priority sector. Development of a conservation action plan for species at risk is currently underway in collaboration with forest sector partners and stakeholders to advance the protection and recovery of species at risk and enhance sector sustainability.With respect to support for Indigenous community involvement in ecosystem protection and climate action, including in forests and more broadly, it should be noted that under the NSCSF, described above, an Indigenous Partnership (NSCSF-IP) stream was established to provide targeted funding to enable Indigenous peoples to play a meaningful leadership role in natural climate solutions as part of the Government of Canada’s commitment to Reconciliation. Through the NSCSF-IP, ECCC supports Indigenous organizations and communities to undertake Indigenous-led capacity building activities and on-the-ground projects for ecological restoration, improved land management, and conservation of wetlands, grasslands, agricultural lands and forests that result in reduced GHG emissions, and that maximize co-benefits for biodiversity, climate resiliency, and human well-being.Beyond this, ECCC has also funded approximately 115 First Nations, Inuit and Métis Guardians initiatives since 2017 with investments totaling over $46 million. Indigenous Guardians initiatives support Indigenous rights and responsibilities in protecting and conserving ecosystems including old-growth forests, developing and maintaining sustainable economies, and continuing the profound connections between the Canadian landscape and Indigenous culture. Indigenous Guardians are Indigenous peoples exercising their cultural responsibilities through on-the-ground stewardship of traditional lands, waters, air, and ice. They act as the “eyes and ears on the ground”.  Indigenous Guardians funding supports on-the-ground activities such as ecological and cultural resource monitoring, restoration, and visitor experience activities, contribution to cultural continuity (e.g., intergenerational knowledge transmission) and implementation of Indigenous conservation practices and Indigenous knowledge.
Environmental protectionForest policyIndigenous policy
44th Parliament223Government response tabledNovember 9, 2023441-01675441-01675 (Environment)ElizabethMaySaanich—Gulf IslandsGreen PartyBCSeptember 27, 2023November 9, 2023February 8, 2023PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLEDWe, the undersigned, citizens of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:WHEREAS:Given current ecological, social and economic crises, our collective future depends on all levels of government and Canadians to make informed and responsible decisions regarding environment and sustainability matters;We have entered an age whereby human impact is approaching many ecological system boundaries such as fresh water usage, atmospheric pollution, and extinction of species;The current state of environmental education in Canada is inadequate to address these challenges and empower citizens to understand the complexity of the issues and take effective action; and The government of Canada should provide coherent national leadership in environmental and sustainability education and recognize the importance of Indigenous Knowledges and practices in the education of Indigenous and non-indigenous peoples.THEREFORE, your petitioners call on the House of Commons to take a leadership role in enacting a Canadian strategy that supports educators, communicators, community leaders, as well as provincial and municipal governments to take actions that result in healthy, sustainable, and flourishing human and ecological communities.
Response by the Minister of Environment and Climate ChangeSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable STEVEN GUILBEAULTThe Minister of the Environment and Climate Change has a mandate to provide Canadians with environmental information in the public interest and promote and encourage practices and conduct that help to preserve the environment, in cooperation with partners such as provincial governments, Indigenous peoples, not-for-profit organizations, academic institutions and others to advance this mission. Last year, the Minister was also mandated by the Prime Minister to engage with Canadians to better communicate the impact of climate change. Environmental education is critical to tackling the environmental challenges Canada is facing today and will face tomorrow. It is also an important part of Canada’s international commitments. Canada is actively engaged in the work of Action for Climate Empowerment (ACE) of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). ACE emphasizes the importance of education to address the climate crisis and promote sustainability. Its overarching goal is to empower people to engage in climate action through education, training, public awareness, public participation, public access to information, and international cooperation on these issues. It also emphasizes the importance of youth voices in climate change action.These obligations are taken very seriously, and the Department recognizes that more needs to be done to improve access to climate and environmental education. The views expressed in this petition will be taken under consideration.In Canada, provinces and territories are responsible for organizing, delivering, and assessing all levels of education. The Government of Canada contributes to sustainability knowledge and education through various means including by undertaking and funding critical research that provides the foundation for environmental and sustainability education; working with and providing funding and support to diverse partners across Canada in support of this mission, and leading the Federal Sustainable Development Strategy.Information, Research and Science The Government of Canada has conducted a national assessment process of how and why Canada’s climate is changing. This assessment discusses the impacts of these changes on communities, environment, and the economy, and details how Canadians are adapting. A series of reports that followed the national assessment raise awareness of the issues facing the country and provide information to Canadians to support sound decisions and actions that address climate change and adapt to its impacts.The Government of Canada is also implementing the Roadmap for Open Science. This will make the scientific research process more inclusive and accessible to scientists and Canadians by making data and publications open and making research understandable and useful. In addition, the Government of Canada is developing a climate data strategy to ensure that the private sector and communities have access to data to inform planning and infrastructure investments.At Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC), the Canadian Centre for Climate Services provides information to improve Canadians’ understanding of how the climate is changing and how those changes could affect them, as well as guidance and resources to make climate-smart decisions.The Canadian Environmental Sustainability Indicators program publishes high-quality indicators that provide Canadians with information on Canada's performance on environmental sustainability issues including climate change, water quality and availability, and species at risk.Research shows that Canadians trust scientists. To leverage its scientific resources, ECCC has developed a pilot program, in French and English, which helps its scientists, researchers and science experts to become better science communicators and harness storytelling and presentation techniques to reach and motivate more Canadians to take environmental and climate action. Once trained, these experts are connected to the Canadian public through a network of schools, museums, science centres as well as non-governmental organizations.Working with Partners The Program of Applied Research on Climate Action in Canada (PARCA) https://impact.canada.ca/en/behavioural-science/parca is a multi-year program of research on climate change, running from September 2021 to March 2024. It is a partnership between Environment and Climate Change Canada, Natural Resources Canada, and the Privy Council Office’s Impact and Innovation Unit. PARCA is using behavioural science for an evidenced-based, data-driven approach to understanding what drives choices and behaviours and what barriers stand in the way of greater climate and environmental action. This will help point the way to more impactful interventions by factoring in actual behaviour. Behaviourally informed solutions will be tested online and then in the real world for their potential to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and promote climate adaptation at the individual and community levels. This work will generate new insights on a rapid timeframe and use them to inform policy development, program design, and communications. A large network of internal and external partners, including partners at multilateral organizations and an advisory committee of subject matter experts, are guiding the research program to help ensure its relevance, rigour, and impact. PARCA data pointed directly to the need for the kinds of partnerships ECCC is developing to build climate literacy.Youth have an important role to play in climate action. Today’s youth and future generations will face the gravest environmental and climate consequences. The youth population is also particularly susceptible to mis- and dis-information. Meaningful youth engagement and education in environment and climate action is essential in building a more sustainable future. That is why the Environment and Climate Change Youth Council (ECCYC) was formed in August 2022. The ECCYC is a group of young Canadians who are passionate about protecting the environment and taking climate action. They have been selected to advise on key environmental and climate issues to inform decisions by the Government of Canada. The ECCYC is engaged on the Government’s climate communication and education initiatives and plays an important role in connecting with diverse community, national and international networks to help mobilize youth for climate action.The Government of Canada also contributes to sustainability knowledge and education by funding research through the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada and the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council.In addition, ECCC’s EcoAction Community Funding Program provides financial support to non-profit and non-government organizations for Canadian communities to take on local action-based projects that produce measurable and positive effects on the environment and to build their capacity to sustain these activities in the future. EcoAction funds projects that lead to tangible environmental results, engage the community to improve the environment, increase environmental awareness and capacity in communities, and result in sustainable outcomes and engagement following project completion.The Environmental Damages Fund (EDF) is a specified purpose account administered by ECCC, on behalf of the Government of Canada, to direct funds received from fines, court orders and voluntary payments to priority projects that will benefit Canada’s natural environment. EDF funding is available for projects that address one or more of the program’s priority areas. Priority is given to projects that restore the natural environment and conserve wildlife, improve environmental quality, undertake research and development on environmental restoration and improve and/or advance education and awareness on issues affecting the health of the natural environment. This could include, for example, promoting education related to environmental damage restoration, including training for the assessment and restoration of damage, or for increased awareness and compliance with environmental regulations.ECCC set up two Grants and Contributions programs with different sources of funding to address the need for better access to environmental education across the country.For fiscal years 2022- 2024, recipients have received or are set to receive funding to advance environmental literacy by 1) supporting teacher training programs, 2) improving access to environmental educational resources, and 3) conducting further research to generate evidence-based solutions for environmental education in Canada.On October 4, 2023, a call for proposals was launched for a new and innovative Environmental Literacy Funding program. ECCC is partnering with philanthropic organizations to support projects that can increase environmental literacy in young Canadians. Strong collaborations with trusted partners in the field can help make long-term gains in tackling climate change and biodiversity loss. ECCC’s $12.5 million investment will be bolstered by interested philanthropic organizations wanting to team up on long-term solutions to tackle climate change. A minimum of $2.5 million of the $12.5 million envelope will be dedicated to Indigenous-led initiatives.ECCC has been engaging stakeholders for the past 2 years focusing on environmental learning. Besides setting up two working groups, one for Provinces and Territories and the other for other science-based Government of Canada Departments, the department has also met with national and international experts, NGOs, youth, formal and non-formal education professionals. Three daylong dialogue days bringing together key actors from diverse sectors (youth and children, education, academia, NGOs, government, museums and science centres, etc) were held between December 2022 and August 2023. ECCC also funded a Youth Climate Lab to conduct policy research with youth on environmental literacy. Key conclusions emerging from these consultations were that nearly every aspect of a young person’s future will be affected by climate – their jobs, their homes, energy use, transportation, food, water, health, and more, and that environmental literacy is a key mitigation and adaptation solution to climate change and biodiversity loss. ECCC has drafted a discussion paper to work toward a Pan-Canadian Framework on Environmental Learning that will be posted for consultation on consultation.gc.ca later this year. Indigenous communities and youth will also be consulted. A “What we heard” report will be drafted and presented to key stakeholders to help the drafting of the Framework in 2024.ECCC also works regularly with other federal partners to ensure sustained public communications about the various programs and incentives available to Canadians to support their environmental actions. ECCC is also developing a long-term multi-faceted social marketing campaign that will aim to provide Canadians with clear, consistent, and evidence-informed information about the environment and climate change. This campaign is expected to launch at the end of 2023.Federal Sustainable Development Strategy The Government of Canada provides federal leadership on environmental and sustainability issues through the Federal Sustainable Development Strategy, as detailed in the Federal Sustainable Development Act. Key aspects of this work are openness and transparency in providing information about sustainability in Canada. The Federal Sustainable Development Strategy brings the federal government’s sustainable development priorities, goals, targets and actions together in one place and enables parliamentarians and Canadians to track progress.All federal organizations subject to the Federal Sustainable Development Act are also required to develop a Departmental Sustainable Development Strategy every three years and report on its progress. These documents provide specific details on all departments’ plans and actions that advance sustainable development in Canada.As is stated by the Federal Sustainable Development Act, the Government of Canada recognizes the importance of involving Indigenous peoples in developing the Federal Sustainable Development Strategy given their Traditional Knowledge and unique understanding of, and connection to, Canada’s lands and waters. Indigenous youth will inherit the results of Canada’s sustainable development efforts. It is critical that no future generation of Indigenous youth is “left behind”. 
Environmental protectionSustainable communities
44th Parliament223Government response tabledNovember 9, 2023441-01687441-01687 (Environment)ElizabethMaySaanich—Gulf IslandsGreen PartyBCSeptember 28, 2023November 9, 2023February 8, 2023Petition to the House of Commons in Parliament AssembledWhereas:
  • Irresponsible practices by industry and multi-national corporations have led to the destruction and denigration of much of Canada's waterways and watersheds;
  • Current laws do not sufficiently protect Canada's waterways and watersheds from such irresponsible practices; and
  • Protecting waterways and watersheds also protects Canada's forests, fisheries, land, and air.
We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada call upon the House of Commons in Parliament assembled to:
  • Update Canada's water laws to ensure that no industry or corporation takes precedence over the health of Canada's waterways and watersheds, and by extension the health of the country's people, species, and land; and
  • Ensure Canada's water laws are updated under the guidance of professionals and specialists in the field of water conservation.
Response by the Minister of Environment and Climate ChangeSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable STEVEN GUILBEAULTA clean and safe freshwater supply is essential to the well-being of Canadians, the health and sustainability of the environment, and the economy. Hence, the Government of Canada has committed to:
  • establishing a federal Canada Water Agency to work with the provinces, territories, Indigenous communities, and other stakeholders to find the best ways to keep Canada’s water safe, clean, and well-managed;
  • implementing a strengthened Freshwater Action Plan, including a historic investment to provide funding to support monitoring, assessment, and restoration work in the Great Lakes, Lake Winnipeg, Lake of the Woods, St. Lawrence River, Fraser River, Saint John River, Mackenzie River, and Lake Simcoe;
  • investing in the Experimental Lakes Area in northern Ontario to support international freshwater science and research; and
  • following the establishment of a Canada Water Agency, advancing the modernization of the Canada Water Act to reflect Canada’s freshwater reality including climate change and Indigenous rights.
To advance these commitments, Budget 2023 proposed to provide:
  • $650 million over ten years, starting in 2023-24, to support monitoring, assessment, and restoration work in the Great Lakes, Lake Winnipeg, Lake of the Woods, St. Lawrence River, Fraser River, Saint John River, Mackenzie River, and Lake Simcoe.
  • $22.6 million over three years, starting in 2023-24, to support better coordination of efforts to protect freshwater across Canada.
  • $85.1 million over five years, starting in 2023-24, with $0.4 million in remaining amortization and $21 million ongoing thereafter to support the creation of the Canada Water Agency, which will be headquartered in Winnipeg.
Budget 2022 provided:
  • $25.0 million over five years, starting in 2022-2023, for the Experimental Lakes Area in northern Ontario to support international freshwater science and research.
On June 12, 2023, the government created the Canada Water Agency as a branch within Environment and Climate Change Canada. The Agency is the federal focal point for fresh water working in partnership with Indigenous peoples, provinces, territories, and stakeholders to strengthen collaboration on fresh water.Budget 2023 indicated that legislation will be introduced that will fully establish the Canada Water Agency as a standalone entity.To learn more about the Canada Water Agency, please consult the Agency website at https://www.canada.ca/en/environment-climate-change/services/water-overview/canada-water-agency.htmlAnother way that the Government of Canada protects and conserves Canada’s water resources is by administering laws that control pollution such as the Fisheries Act.Environment and Climate Change Canada is the lead department responsible for the administration and enforcement of the Fisheries Act pollution prevention provisions (except for their application to aquaculture and the control and eradication of aquatic invasive species and aquatic pests, which are under the responsibility of the Department of Fisheries and Ocean). Subsection 36(3) prohibits the deposit of any deleterious substances in water frequented by fish or to any place where it may enter water frequented by fish, unless authorized by federal regulations. Deleterious substances include any substance that, if added to water, would degrade, alter or form part of a process of degradation or alteration of the quality of water so that it is rendered deleterious to fish or fish habitat or to the use of fish by humans. Any regulations developed under section 36 set strict requirements on deposits to water. These regulations can impose conditions such as limits on the maximum quantities of deleterious substances released into water, and can include environmental effects monitoring and other reporting requirements for facilities. Modern Fisheries Act regulations include the Metal and Diamond Mining Effluent Regulations, the Pulp and Paper Effluent Regulations, and the Wastewater Systems Effluent Regulations.Environment and Climate Change Canada is developing proposed regulations to address deposits to water from coal mining and is investigating risk management approaches for tailings ponds from oil sands operations.To learn more about these proposed regulations, as well as upcoming improvements to existing regulations, please consult the Fisheries Act Forward Regulatory Plan 2023-2025 available at: https://www.canada.ca/en/environment-climate-change/corporate/transparency/acts-regulations/forward-regulatory-plan/2023-2025/fisheries-act.html.Environment and Climate Change Canada enforces the subsection 36(3) prohibition, as well as regulations under the Fisheries Act according to the Compliance and Enforcement Policy for Habitat Protection and Pollution Prevention Provisions of the Fisheries Act: www.canada.ca/en/environment-climate-change/services/environmental-enforcement/publications/compliance-enforcement-policy-fisheries-act.html
Environmental protectionInland watersWatersheds
44th Parliament223Government response tabledNovember 2, 2023441-01613441-01613 (Environment)ElizabethMaySaanich—Gulf IslandsGreen PartyBCSeptember 19, 2023November 2, 2023May 18, 2023PETITION TO THE GOVERNMENT OF CANADAWhereas:
  • Thermal coal, the kind burned to make electricity, is the world's dirtiest fossil fuel;
  • Thermal coal creates half of the world's carbon emissions and the pollution it creates kills more than 800,000 people every year;
  • The government has a plan to phase out thermal coal exports, but it is outdated and insufficient;
  • The world needs to move rapidly away from thermal coal to have any chance of limiting global warming to the Paris target of 1.5 degrees Celsius;
  • The physical effects of climate change pose serious risks for Canadians, Canada's wildlife and the Canadian economy including permafrost melt, droughts, heatwaves, wildfires, floods, sea level rise, increased vector-borne diseases, disruptions to supply chains, destruction of infrastructure and damage to key industries including agriculture and forestry; and
  • Canada's greenhouse gas emissions have increased since the Paris Agreement was signed, making it the worst performing of all G7 nations since the 2015 Conference of the Parties in Paris, France.
We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to:
  • 1. Add thermal coal to the Priority Substances List of the Canadian Environment Protection Act (CEPA), and, as soon thereafter as possible, to the Toxic Substances List of CEPA; and
  • 2. Regulate the mining, use, export, and import of thermal coal in Canada in accordance with our international commitments to reduce carbon emissions at home and abroad.
Response by the Minister of Environment and Climate ChangeSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable STEVEN GUILBEAULTPhasing out coal use in our electricity sector is another critical component of Canadian and global efforts to tackle climate change. The clean energy transition will not only cut greenhouse gas emissions (GHG), it will also protect our air, our water and our health.In December 2018, Canada published regulations to phase out conventional coal-fired electricity by 2030. This is expected to result in cumulative GHG reductions of 94 million tonnes over the 2019 to 2055 period, including 12.8 million tonnes in 2030.At the 26th United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change Conference of the Parties, the Canadian Prime Minister stated Canada’s goal of establishing a net-zero emissions electricity grid by 2035. This commitment was reflected in the mandate letter for the Minister of the Environment in December 2021. Achieving that goal will be transformational, and will require multiple measures and all levels of government working together. At the federal level, the new Clean Electricity Standard is being complemented by numerous investment programs for the electricity sector administered by Natural Resources Canada, Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada and Infrastructure Canada, including those announced in Budget 2022. These measures are intended to help ensure that Canada achieves a clean, reliable and affordable electricity system. For further information regarding the development of the Clean Electricity Standard, please see A clean electricity standard in support of a net-zero electricity sector: discussion paperwww.canada.ca/en/environment-climate-change/services/canadian-environmental-protection-act-registry/achieving-net-zero-emissions-electricity-generation-discussion-paper.htmlThe Government of Canada is also addressing GHG emissions from electricity generation globally. Burning thermal coal is the single largest contributor to climate change globally and a major source of toxic pollution that harms human health. In 2019, Export Development Canada committed to no new financing for international coal-fired power plants, thermal coal mines or dedicated thermal coal-related infrastructure. In May 2021, all G7 countries, following Canada’s leadership, also agreed to take concrete steps to end government investment for unabated thermal coal power generation projects. In the aforementioned mandate letter of December 2021, the Minister of Environment was also mandated to work with the Minister of International Trade, Export Promotion, Small Business and Economic Development to continue Canada’s leadership on the global effort to phase out coal-powered electricity and the mining of thermal coal and ban thermal coal exports from and through Canada as swiftly as possible, and no later than 2030.    
Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999CoalEnvironmental protectionInternational tradeMining industry
44th Parliament223Government response tabledAugust 16, 2023441-01564441-01564 (Environment)GordJohnsCourtenay—AlberniNDPBCJune 16, 2023August 16, 2023May 16, 2023PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLEDWe, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons in Parliament Assembled to the following:Whereas:
  • There are significant risks to workers and the environment associated with shipbreaking due to the presence of a wide variety of hazardous materials in end-of-life marine vessels;
  • Unlike other jurisdictions, Canada lacks standards on shipbreaking and unregulated shipbreaking activities which are putting our oceans, coastal communities and workers at risk; and
  • The lack of domestic oversight of shipbreaking and disposal of end-of-life marine vessels frustrates Canada's ability to ensure compliance with its international obligations under the Basel Convention.
Therefore, we, the undersigned, Citizens and Resident of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to support motion M-68 and:1. Develop enforceable federal standards to reduce the negative environmental and social impacts of shipbreaking that meet or exceed those set out in the EU Ship Recycling Regulation;2. Provide assistance through loans or grants to long-term, reputable shipbreaking companies to facilitate implementation of new federal standards into their operations; and3. Develop a strategy for recycling end-of-life federally owned marine vessels.
Response by the Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast GuardSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Mike Kelloway1. The Government of Canada is committed to protecting the health and safety of Canadians and the environment from the potential risks of marine pollution. This includes working to improve water quality and our marine environments from coast to coast to coast.There are certain existing federal rules that may apply to ship recycling activities. Under the Canada Shipping Act, 2001 or the Wrecked, Abandoned or Hazardous Vessels Act, the federal government has powers to address any pollution discharge, or mitigate the risk of pollution discharge, from any vessel still in the water. In addition, the pollution prevention provisions of the Fisheries Act (subsection 36(3)) prohibit the deposit of any deleterious substance in waters frequented by fish or to any place where it may enter water frequented by fish, unless authorized by federal regulations. Further, any in-water portion of ship recycling activity may require approval under the Canada Navigable Waters Act if it occurs in navigable waters.The European Union (EU) implemented its ship recycling regulations (the EU Ship Recycling Regulation) in 2020. These regulations largely replicate the standards and provisions set out in the Hong Kong Convention for the Safe and Environmentally Sound Recycling of Ships (Hong Kong Convention) which Canada endorsed in 2009 but has not ratified.Canada supports the intent of the Hong Kong Convention as it is designed to set a level playing field to improve conditions in ship recycling facilities while diminishing the impact of ship recycling operations on human health, safety, and the environment – particularly in countries that have robust ship recycling operations but lack conditions and systems to keep workers safe and minimize environmental impacts.In 2021 and 2022, Canada engaged four key provinces that currently have, or are considering having, recycling operations for larger ships (British Columbia, Ontario, Quebec and Nova Scotia). This was done because many of the provisions of the Hong Kong Convention fall under provincial jurisdiction – notably around waste management, land-use zoning, and occupational health and safety. Each of these provinces confirmed their existing legislative authorities already adequately embody the intent and objectives of the Convention. Each of these provinces also indicated their willingness to work with the federal government to advance environmentally sustainable ship recycling in Canada.The Government of Canada is currently analyzing if there are opportunities to strengthen the federal approach with respect to the safe and environmentally sound recycling of ships. This includes examining requirements that are specific to vessels under the EU Ship Recycling Regulation and the Hong Kong Convention.2. Provinces and territories are responsible for the protection of workers and occupational health and safety at ship recycling facilities, as well as regulating the handling, storage, transportation, and disposal of waste produced when a ship is recycled. This essentially makes most activities related to ship recycling facilities subject to provincial/territorial jurisdiction. For this reason, no federal assistance program has been considered at this time.3. Marine operators across the Federal Government are working to ensure the federal fleet is managed in a sustainable manner that achieves best value for Canadians, which includes value for money, operational readiness, environmental protection and increased collaboration with Indigenous communities. To achieve this, a suite of government-wide procurement instruments have been established that support all stages of vessel disposal, including technical assessments, dismantling, and recycling (if/when required). Currently, supply arrangements for marine technical services and small vessel disposal are in place. A new Request for Supply Arrangements (RFSA) for medium and large Vessel Disposals was posted in June 2023. By leveraging these procurement instruments, the Federal Government is ensuring a consistent approach to disposal services.To move toward a more predictable approach to vessel disposal planning and engagement, the Government of Canada has begun incorporating planned Fleet disposal contracts as part of regular Federal Marine Procurement updates at various Marine conferences and events across Canada. In addition, since April 2023, industry engagement sessions and workshops have been conducted to ensure suppliers, communities and organizations understand Canada’s planned program of work and standards for vessel disposals. The material presented at these events will also be made available on CanadaBuys.
Response by the Minister of Public Services and ProcurementSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Anthony HousefatherMarine operators across the federal government are working to ensure the federal fleet is managed in a sustainable manner that achieves best value for Canadians, which includes value for money, operational readiness, environmental protection and increased collaboration with Indigenous communities. To achieve this, a suite of government-wide procurement instruments have been established to support all stages of vessel disposal, including technical assessments, dismantling and recycling (if/when required). Currently, supply arrangements for marine technical services and small vessel disposal are in place. A new Request for Supply Arrangements for medium and large vessel disposals was posted in June 2023. By leveraging these procurement instruments, the federal government is ensuring a consistent approach to disposal services.To move toward a more predictable approach to vessel disposal planning and engagement, the Government of Canada has begun incorporating federal vessel disposal forecasts as part of regular Federal Marine Procurement updates at various Marine conferences and events across Canada. In addition, industry engagement sessions and workshops are being conducted to ensure suppliers, communities and organizations understand Canada’s planned program of work and standards for disposals. The information presented at these events is publicly available on CanadaBuys.
Response by the Minister of Transport Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Parliamentary Secretary Annie KoutrakisPart 1: The Government of Canada is committed to protecting the health and safety of Canadians and the environment from the potential risks of marine pollution. This includes working to improve water quality and Canada’s marine environments from coast to coast to coast.There are certain existing federal rules that may apply to ship recycling activities. Under the Canada Shipping Act, 2001 or the Wrecked, Abandoned or Hazardous Vessels Act, the federal government has powers to address any pollution discharge, or mitigate the risk of pollution discharge, from any vessel still in the water. In addition, the pollution prevention provisions of the Fisheries Act (subsection 36(3)) prohibit the deposit of any deleterious substance in waters frequented by fish or to any place where it may enter water frequented by fish, unless authorized by federal regulations. Further, any in-water portion of ship recycling activity may require approval under the Canada Navigable Waters Act if it occurs in navigable waters.The European Union implemented its ship recycling regulations (the EU Ship Recycling Regulation) in 2020. These regulations largely replicate the standards and provisions set out in the Hong Kong Convention for the Safe and Environmentally Sound Recycling of Ships (Hong Kong Convention) which Canada endorsed in 2009, but has not ratified.Canada supports the intent of the Hong Kong Convention as it is designed to set a level playing field to improve conditions in ship recycling facilities while diminishing the impact of ship recycling operations on human health, safety, and the environment – particularly in countries that have robust ship recycling operations but lack conditions and systems to keep workers safe and minimize environmental impacts.In 2021 and 2022, Canada engaged four key provinces that currently have, or are considering having, recycling operations for larger ships (British Columbia, Ontario, Quebec and Nova Scotia). This was done because many of the provisions of the Hong Kong Convention fall under provincial jurisdiction – notably around waste management, land-use zoning, and occupational health and safety. Each of these provinces confirmed their existing legislative authorities already adequately embody the intent and objectives of the Convention. Each of these provinces also indicated their willingness to work with the federal government to advance environmentally sustainable ship recycling in Canada.The Government of Canada is currently analyzing if there are opportunities to strengthen federal legislation with respect to the safe and environmentally sound recycling of ships. This includes examining requirements that are specific to vessels under the EU Ship Recycling Regulation and the Hong Kong Convention.Part 2: Provinces and territories are responsible for the protection of workers and occupational health and safety at ship recycling facilities, as well as regulating the handling, storage, transportation, and disposal of waste produced when a ship is recycled. This essentially makes most activities related to ship recycling facilities subject to provincial/territories jurisdiction.For this reason, no federal assistance program has been considered at this time.However, amendments to the Wrecked, Abandoned or Hazardous Vessels Act were recently concluded with the passage of Bill C-47, the Budget Implementation Act, that enables the Government of Canada to establish a vessel-owner financed Vessel Remediation Fund. This Fund, once fully operational by 2025-26, will provide a stable source of resources to be used to address and remove priority abandoned or wrecked vessels posing hazards in Canadian waters, except for the largest and most complex cases. This Fund will also support research and capacity building into environmentally sustainable vessel recycling and disposal. 
Environmental protectionM-68Shipbuilding industryWaste management
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJuly 19, 2023441-01490441-01490 (Environment)ElizabethMaySaanich—Gulf IslandsGreen PartyBCMay 30, 2023July 19, 2023September 21, 2022Petition to the Government of CanadaWhereas:
  • Indigenous peoples have rights and title to their traditional territories and have been stewards of these lands since time immemorial;
  • The climate crisis requires action by all levels of government and industry;
  • Old-growth forests provide immeasurable benefits, including carbon sequestration, biodiversity, culture, recreation, education, food and more;
  • Valley-bottom high productivity old-growth ecosystems in British Columbia are endangered;
  • Of the remaining 2.7% of original high productivity old-growth forests in British Columbia, 75% are still slated to be logged;
  • Only 9% of the original 360,000 hectares of valley-bottom high productivity old-growth on Vancouver Island remain today, and only 2.6% of those forests are protected in parks;
  • The last unprotected intact old-growth valley on Southern Vancouver Island, Fairy Creek, is slated for logging, along with the upper Walbran Valle and other remaining pockets of old growth; and
  • Most Canadians support sustainable harvesting of second and third growth forests, but do not support logging old-growth trees or destroying their surrounding ecosystems.
We, the undersigned, Citizens of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to:
  • 1. Work with the provinces and First Nations to immediately halt logging of endangered old-growth ecosystems;
  • 2. Fund the long-term protection of old-growth ecosystems as a priority for Canada's climate action plan and reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples;
  • 3. Support value-added forestry initiatives in partnership with First Nations to ensure Canada's forestry industry is sustainable, and based on the harvesting of second and third growth forests;
  • 4. Ban the export of raw logs and maximize resource use for local jobs; and
  • 5. Ban the use of whole trees for wood pellet biofuel production.
Response by the Minister of International Trade, Export Promotion, Small Business and Economic DevelopmentSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Arif ViraniForests provide a wide range of economic, social and environmental benefits for people and communities across Canada. They are a major source of income and employment for 300 communities across the country, directly employing 205,000 workers, including over 11,500 Indigenous workers. Canada is committed to Indigenous reconciliation and recognize the importance of natural resources to Indigenous Peoples.With respect to the proposal to ban the export of raw logs, logs are integral to the domestic manufacturing industry for a wide range of forest products including softwood lumber and other products like high value finished veneer panels. Domestic and international trade in logs is important for log harvesters and Canadian trade. The policy and process governing the export of logs harvested in British Columbia contained in Global Affairs Canada’s Notice to Exporters No. 102 form an important part of the Government’s efforts to ensure the right balance between log exports and domestic policy objectives.The Government regularly reviews policies to ensure that Canada’s domestic policy objectives and trade opportunities are maximized and welcomes all ideas and proposals related to its policies, including those associated with the export of raw logs. The Government is committed to continuing to work and collaborate closely with Indigenous Peoples and all stakeholders and partners on this issue to achieve the best possible results for Canada.
Response by the Minister of Environment and Climate ChangeSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable STEVEN GUILBEAULTCanada is home to ecosystems that are globally significant in their capacity to absorb carbon, mitigate the impacts of climate change, and protect biodiversity. This includes 24% of the world’s wetlands, 25% of temperate rainforest areas and 28% of remaining boreal forests. In this context, the Government of Canada understands that the dual crises of climate change and biodiversity loss are connected and need to be tackled together.That said, conservation and protection of Canada’s forests, including old-growth forests and ecosystems, is a shared responsibility. The vast majority of Canada's forests are located on provincial and territorial Crown lands. In British Columbia (B.C.), approximately 96% of forests are on provincial Crown land, where, under the Constitution Act, 1867, forest management is the jurisdiction of the provincial government. As such, forest management on those lands is within the jurisdiction of the B.C. government. At the same time, there is an important federal role to conserve migratory bird habitat, protect critical habitat of federally listed species at risk, and mitigate climate change.With this in mind, the mandate letters of the Ministers of Environment and Climate Change and Natural Resources include a commitment to help protect old-growth forests, notably in B.C., by reaching a Nature Agreement with B.C., establishing a $50 million B.C. Old Growth Nature Fund, and ensuring First Nations, local communities and workers are partners in shaping the path forward for nature protection. This $50 million investment was made through Budget 2022, and a contribution agreement was signed with B.C. in March 2023.The Old Growth Nature Fund will deliver on the Ministers’ mandate letters by providing $50 million to the Government of B.C., to be matched by B.C., to permanently protect and conserve old growth forests in the province. The Fund focuses on protecting at-risk high productivity old growth forests that are of prime biodiversity value identified as important for species at risk, migratory birds, climate mitigation and reconciliation with Indigenous peoples. Specifically, federal funding supports planning and collaboration with B.C. and Indigenous communities, and provides incentives for third-party funders to permanently protect and conserve large areas of at-risk old growth forests in the province. For example, the 58,000-hectare Incomappleux Valley Conservancy in the B.C. interior was created, in-part, thanks to investments under the Old Growth Nature Fund.The Old Growth Nature Fund will be a key component of the B.C. Nature Agreement, which is being co-developed between Canada, B.C and the First Nations Leadership Council (FNLC), and presents a unique opportunity to collaboratively advance nature conservation, species at risk and climate mitigation objectives in collaboration with provincial and Indigenous partners.To this end, and in light of recent announcements from the Government of B.C. concerning moratoria on old growth forest harvesting, departmental officials have been working with their provincial colleagues to finalize a tripartite Nature Agreement and to explore additional ways to encourage and support the province in its efforts to protect and restore habitat. This includes protecting the habitat of old growth-associated species such as Spotted Owl and Marbled Murrelet.The Government of Canada appreciates that, in addition to their habitat functions, forests are key to the health of the climate, influencing rainfall, temperature, and other metrics. Temperate old growth forests, like those in B.C., also function as important carbon reservoirs.Appreciating the significance of forests to biodiversity conservation and climate, the federal government has contributed to protecting nearly 400,000 hectares of forest habitat in B.C. This includes conservation projects under programs such as the Target 1 Challenge, Natural Heritage Conservation Program, Ecological Gifts Program, and others.Alongside this work, the federal government has made forests a central part of Canada’s plan to tackle climate change. The Old Growth Nature Fund in particular is expected to contribute directly to the Government of Canada's commitments to achieve Canada’s 2030 greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions reduction goal and net-zero GHG emissions by 2050. The old growth temperate rainforests of B.C. are among the largest natural carbon sinks in the world (on a per hectare basis) and are among the most efficient ecosystems at capturing carbon in Canada.Complementing this effort on a broader scale, the Government of Canada has also announced a series of funding initiatives of significance to forest ecosystems and forestry in Canada:
  • Natural Climate Solutions is investing more than $5 billion over ten years to restore, better manage, and conserve Canada’s natural and managed ecosystems. This initiative includes three complementary programs:
    • 2 Billion Trees program, led by Natural Resources Canada;
    • Nature Smart Climate Solutions Fund (NSCSF), led by Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC); and
    • The Agricultural Climate Solutions (ACS) program, led by Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada.
  • The NSCSF is a $1.4 billion 10-year (2021-2031) fund to reduce 5-7 megatons of GHG emissions annually. Up to $36.9 million in funding has been allocated to support Indigenous communities to deliver projects that build capacity and advance Indigenous-led efforts on natural climate solutions, with a focus on improved management, conservation, and restoration of wetlands, grasslands and forests that result in reduced and captured GHG emissions.
  • Enhanced Nature Legacy provides $2.3 billion in new funding over five years (2021-2026) that will further contribute to the implementation of conservation measures for Canada’s land and freshwater ecosystems and wildlife. This includes the establishment of new federal, provincial and territorial protected areas, other effective area-based conservation measures, Indigenous Protected and Conserved Areas, and additional habitat restoration. It also included the announcement of further investments through the Low Carbon Economy Fund, a $2 billion fund that could, amongst other things, incent provinces to leave timber standing (for example, by creating other revenue streams for forests).
The broader significance of Canada’s forests is also recognized in the Pan-Canadian Approach to Transforming Species at Risk Conservation in Canada where forests are identified as a priority sector. Development of a conservation action plan for species at risk is currently underway in collaboration with forest sector partners and stakeholders to advance the protection and recovery of species at risk and enhance sector sustainability.With respect to support for Indigenous community involvement in ecosystem protection and climate action, including in forests and more broadly, it should be noted that under the NSCSF, described above, an Indigenous Partnership (NSCSF-IP) stream was established to provide targeted funding to enable Indigenous peoples to play a meaningful leadership role in natural climate solutions as part of the Government of Canada’s commitment to Reconciliation. Through the NSCSF-IP, ECCC supports Indigenous organizations and communities to undertake Indigenous-led capacity building activities and on-the-ground projects for ecological restoration, improved land management, and conservation of wetlands, grasslands, agricultural lands and forests that result in reduced GHG emissions, and that maximize co-benefits for biodiversity, climate resiliency, and human well-being.Beyond this, ECCC has also funded approximately 115 First Nations, Inuit and Métis Guardians initiatives since 2017 with investments totaling over $46 million. Indigenous Guardians initiatives support Indigenous rights and responsibilities in protecting and conserving ecosystems including old-growth forests, developing and maintaining sustainable economies, and continuing the profound connections between the Canadian landscape and Indigenous culture. Indigenous Guardians are Indigenous peoples exercising their cultural responsibilities through on-the-ground stewardship of traditional lands, waters, air, and ice. They act as the “eyes and ears on the ground”.  Indigenous Guardians funding supports on-the-ground activities such as ecological and cultural resource monitoring, restoration, and visitor experience activities, contribution to cultural continuity (e.g., intergenerational knowledge transmission) and implementation of Indigenous conservation practices and Indigenous knowledge.     
Response by the Minister of Natural ResourcesSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): THE HONOURABLE JONATHAN WILKINSON, P.C., M.P.Canada’s forests provide a wealth of environmental, economic, social and cultural benefits to Canadians. The forestrysector in Canada is governed by provincial legislation, regulations and policies. Through careful monitoring and planning, Canada’s forest sector manages the long-term health of its forests, both safeguarding these benefits in the face of challenges and finding new opportunities in a changing world.Finding solutions also means working with Indigenous communities and leaders so that forest management and conservation practices are informed by Indigenous knowledge systems. Through the Indigenous Forestry Initiative (IFI), Natural Resources Canada (NRCan) is providing financial support to Indigenous-led projects in the forest sector — creating good jobs and supporting the stewardship of Canada’s forests. Since 2017, the program has supported 134 Indigenous-led, forest-based economic development projects and helped to create more than 787 jobs and 45 new or expanded businesses.British Columbia’s iconic old growth forests have deep-rooted cultural significance to Indigenous communities and are important to all British Columbians. They are also critical habitats for dozens of species at risk and migratory birds and are important natural stores of carbon.The British Columbia Old Growth Nature Fund established by the Departments of Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) and NRCan advances shared objectives regarding urgent protection of vital ecosystems, wildlife habitats and species at risk while also protecting carbon stores in old growth forests. The Old Growth Nature Fund is being established in collaboration with the Province of British Columbia, non-governmental organizations, and Indigenous and local communities.This collaborative work to protect communities and diverse natural habitats, including by advancing Indigenous-led conservation efforts, is also crucial to securing a cleaner, healthier, and greener future for Canadians.The Old Growth Nature Fund further complements the Enhanced Nature Legacy announced in 2021, and the Natural Climate Solutions Fund announced in 2020.Canada boasts the most forest area certified by internationally recognized, third party systems as being managed in a sustainable way, respecting ecological values and Indigenous rights. Three quarters of Canada’s managed public forests are certified to one or more of three sustainable forest management certification systems: the Sustainable Forestry Initiative, the Forest Stewardship Council, and the Canadian Standards Association.As with all forest industries in Canada, the wood pellet industry is governed by provincial legislation, regulations and policies that are the basis for sustainable forest management, and include protections for old-growth forests. Strict monitoring and enforcement measures ensure that Canada’s forests are harvested legally and sustainably.Canadian wood pellets are primarily made from sawmill residues that are by-products of wood product manufacturing. The industry also uses branches and treetops from harvest operations, logs damaged by natural disturbances, or trees that are cut to manage long-term ecological values in the forest. If not used, these additional sources of wood fibre are typically left to decompose into the atmosphere, or may be burned onsite.Supporting markets for all material harvested, as part of a sustainable forest management plan, ensures that no part of the harvested tree is wasted, and delivers economic benefits to Canadians. As part of Budget 2023, Canada announced $368.4 million over three years, starting in 2023-24 to NRCan to renew and update forest sector support, including for Indigenous leadership in the sector.
Environmental protectionForest policyIndigenous policy
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJune 13, 2023441-01393441-01393 (Environment)ElizabethMaySaanich—Gulf IslandsGreen PartyBCMay 1, 2023June 13, 2023September 22, 2022Petition to the Government of CanadaWhereas:
  • Indigenous peoples have rights and title to their traditional territories and have been stewards of these lands since time immemorial;
  • The climate crisis requires action by all levels of government and industry;
  • Old-growth forests provide immeasurable benefits, including carbon sequestration, biodiversity, culture, recreation, education, food and more;
  • Valley-bottom high productivity old-growth ecosystems in British Columbia are endangered;
  • Of the remaining 2.7% of original high productivity old-growth forests in British Columbia, 75% are still slated to be logged;
  • Only 9% of the original 360,000 hectares of valley-bottom high productivity old-growth on Vancouver Island remain today, and only 2.6% of those forests are protected in parks;
  • The last unprotected intact old-growth valley on Southern Vancouver Island, Fairy Creek, is slated for logging, along with the upper Walbran Valle and other remaining pockets of old growth; and
  • Most Canadians support sustainable harvesting of second and third growth forests, but do not support logging old-growth trees or destroying their surrounding ecosystems.
We, the undersigned, Citizens of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to:
  • 1. Work with the provinces and First Nations to immediately halt logging of endangered old-growth ecosystems;
  • 2. Fund the long-term protection of old-growth ecosystems as a priority for Canada's climate action plan and reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples;
  • 3. Support value-added forestry initiatives in partnership with First Nations to ensure Canada's forestry industry is sustainable, and based on the harvesting of second and third growth forests;
  • 4. Ban the export of raw logs and maximize resource use for local jobs; and
  • 5. Ban the use of whole trees for wood pellet biofuel production.
Response by the Minister of Environment and Climate ChangeSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable STEVEN GUILBEAULTCanada is home to ecosystems that are globally significant in their capacity to absorb carbon, mitigate the impacts of climate change, and protect biodiversity. This includes 24% of the world’s wetlands, 25% of temperate rainforest areas and 28% of remaining boreal forests. In this context, the Government of Canada understands that the dual crises of climate change and biodiversity loss are connected and need to be tackled together.That said, conservation and protection of Canada’s forests, including old-growth forests and ecosystems, is a shared responsibility. The vast majority of Canada's forests are located on provincial and territorial Crown lands. In British Columbia (B.C.), approximately 96% of forests are on provincial crown land, where, under the Constitution Act, 1867, forest management is the jurisdiction of the provincial government. As such, forest management on those lands is within the jurisdiction of the B.C. government. At the same time, there is an important federal role to conserve migratory bird habitat, protect critical habitat of federally listed species at risk, and mitigate climate change.With this in mind, the Mandate Letters of the Ministers of Environment and Climate Change and Natural Resources include a commitment to help protect old growth forests, notably in B.C., by reaching a Nature Agreement with B.C., establishing a $50 million B. C. Old Growth Nature Fund, and ensuring First Nations, local communities and workers are partners in shaping the path forward for nature protection. This $50 million investment was made through Budget 2022.The Old Growth Nature Fund will support efforts to halt logging of old-growth forests and is a key component of the Canada-B.C. Nature Agreement, which presents a unique opportunity to collaboratively advance nature conservation, species at risk and climate mitigation objectives in collaboration with provincial and Indigenous partners.To this end, and in light of recent announcements from the Government of B.C. concerning moratoria on old growth forest harvesting, departmental officials have been working with their provincial colleagues, both to negotiate and finalize a Nature Agreement and to explore additional ways to encourage and support the province in its efforts to protect and restore habitat. This includes protecting the habitat of old growth-associated species such as Spotted Owl and Marbled Murrelet.The Government of Canada appreciates that in addition to their habitat functions, forests are key to the health of our climate, influencing rainfall, temperature, and other metrics. Temperate old growth forests, like those in B.C., also function as important carbon reservoirs.Appreciating the significance of forests to biodiversity conservation and climate, the federal government has contributed to protecting nearly 400,000 hectares of forest habitat in B.C. This includes conservation projects under programs such as the Target 1 Challenge, Natural Heritage Conservation Program, Ecological Gifts Program, and others.Adding to these efforts, the Old Growth Nature Fund, referenced above, will deliver on the Ministers’ mandate letters by providing $50 million to the Government of B.C., to be matched by B.C., to permanently protect and conserve old growth forests in the province. The Fund will focus on protecting at-risk high productivity old growth forests that are of prime biodiversity value identified as important for species at risk, migratory birds, climate mitigation and reconciliation with Indigenous peoples. Specifically, federal funding will support planning and collaboration with B.C. and Indigenous communities, and provide incentives for third-party funders, to permanently protect and conserve large areas of at-risk old growth forests in the province.Alongside this work, the federal government has made forests a central part of Canada’s plan to tackle climate change. The Old Growth Nature Fund in particular is expected to contribute directly to the Government of Canada's commitments to achieve Canada’s 2030 greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions reduction goal and net-zero GHG emissions by 2050. The old growth temperate rainforests of B.C. are among the largest natural carbon sinks in the world (on a per hectare basis) and are among the most efficient ecosystems at capturing carbon in Canada.Complementing this effort on a broader scale, the Government of Canada has also announced a series of funding initiatives of significance to forest ecosystems and forestry in Canada:
  • The Natural Climate Solutions Fund (NCSF), a $4 billion initiative over ten years to restore, better manage, and conserve Canada’s natural and managed ecosystems. The NCSF includes three complementary programs:
    • 2 Billion Trees program, led by Natural Resources Canada;
    • Nature Smart Climate Solutions Fund (NSCSF), led by ECCC; and
    • The Agricultural Climate Solutions (ACS) program, led by Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada.
  • The NSCSF involves $631 million over 10 years (2021-2031) to reduce 2-4 megatons of GHG emissions annually. Up to $36.9 million in funding has been allocated to support Indigenous communities to deliver projects that build capacity and advance Indigenous-led efforts on natural climate solutions, with a focus on improved management, conservation, and restoration of wetlands, grasslands and forests that result in reduced and captured GHG emissions.
  • Enhanced Nature Legacy, providing $2.3 billion in new funding over five years that will further contribute to the implementation of conservation measures for Canada’s land and freshwater ecosystems and wildlife. This includes the establishment of new provincial and territorial protected areas, Indigenous Protected and Conserved Areas, and additional habitat restoration. Budget 2022 increased this investment by $780 million over five years for the NSCSF. It also included the announcement of further investments through the Low Carbon Economy Fund, a $2 billion fund that could, amongst other things, incent provinces to leave timber standing (for example, by creating other revenue streams for forests).
  • The recent Emissions Reduction Plan committed another $780 million to nature-based solutions, including the conservation, restoration and enhanced management of grassland, wetland, peatland and forest ecosystems.
The broader significance of Canada’s forests is also recognized in the Pan-Canadian Approach to Transforming Species at Risk Conservation in Canada where forests are identified as a priority sector. Development of a conservation action plan for species at risk is currently underway in collaboration with forest sector partners and stakeholders to advance the protection and recovery of species at risk and enhance sector sustainability.With respect to support for Indigenous community involvement in eco-system protection and climate action, including in forests and more broadly, it should be noted that under the NSCSF, described above, an Indigenous Partnership (NSCSF-IP) stream was established to provide targeted funding to enable Indigenous peoples to play a meaningful leadership role in natural climate solutions as part of the Government of Canada’s commitment to Reconciliation. Through the NSCSF-IP, ECCC supports Indigenous organizations and communities to undertake Indigenous-led capacity building activities and on-the-ground projects for ecological restoration, improved land management, and conservation of wetlands, grasslands, agricultural lands and forests that result in reduced GHG emissions, and that maximize co-benefits for biodiversity, climate resiliency, and human well-being.Beyond this, ECCC has also funded approximately 115 First Nations, Inuit and Métis Guardians initiatives since 2017 with investments totaling over $46 million. Indigenous Guardians initiatives support Indigenous rights and responsibilities in protecting and conserving ecosystems including old-growth forests, developing and maintaining sustainable economies, and continuing the profound connections between the Canadian landscape and Indigenous culture. Indigenous Guardians are Indigenous peoples exercising their cultural responsibilities through on-the-ground stewardship of traditional lands, waters, air, and ice. They act as the “eyes and ears on the ground”.  Indigenous Guardians funding supports on-the-ground activities such as ecological and cultural resource monitoring, restoration, and visitor experience activities, contribution to cultural continuity (e.g., intergenerational knowledge transmission) and implementation of Indigenous conservation practices and Indigenous knowledge.    
Response by the Minister of Natural ResourcesSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): THE HONOURABLE JONATHAN WILKINSON, P.C., M.P.Canada’s forests provide a wealth of environmental, economic, social and cultural benefits to Canadians. The forestrysector in Canada is governed by provincial legislation, regulations and policies. Through careful monitoring and planning, Canada’s forest sector manages the long-term health of its forests, both safeguarding these benefits in the face of challenges and finding new opportunities in a changing world.Finding solutions also means working with Indigenous communities and leaders so that forest management and conservation practices are informed by Indigenous knowledge systems. Through the Indigenous Forestry Initiative (IFI), Natural Resources Canada (NRCan) is providing financial support to Indigenous-led projects in the forest sector — creating good jobs and supporting the stewardship of Canada’s forests. Since 2017, the program has supported 134 Indigenous-led, forest-based economic development projects and helped to create more than 787 jobs and 45 new or expanded businesses.British Columbia’s iconic old growth forests have deep-rooted cultural significance to Indigenous communities and are important to all British Columbians. They are also critical habitats for dozens of species at risk and migratory birds and are important natural stores of carbon.The British Columbia Old Growth Nature Fund established by the Departments of Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) and NRCan advances shared objectives regarding urgent protection of vital ecosystems, wildlife habitats and species at risk while also protecting carbon stores in old growth forests. The Old Growth Nature Fund is being established in collaboration with the Province of British Columbia, non-governmental organizations, and Indigenous and local communities.This collaborative work to protect communities and diverse natural habitats, including by advancing Indigenous-led conservation efforts, is also crucial to securing a cleaner, healthier, and greener future for Canadians.The Old Growth Nature Fund further complements the Enhanced Nature Legacy announced in 2021, and the Natural Climate Solutions Fund announced in 2020.Canada boasts the most forest area certified by internationally recognized, third party systems as being managed in a sustainable way, respecting ecological values and Indigenous rights. Three quarters of Canada’s managed public forests are certified to one or more of three sustainable forest management certification systems: the Sustainable Forestry Initiative, the Forest Stewardship Council, and the Canadian Standards Association.As with all forest industries in Canada, the wood pellet industry is governed by provincial legislation, regulations and policies that are the basis for sustainable forest management, and include protections for old-growth forests. Strict monitoring and enforcement measures ensure that Canada’s forests are harvested legally and sustainably.Canadian wood pellets are primarily made from sawmill residues that are by-products of wood product manufacturing. The industry also uses branches and treetops from harvest operations, logs damaged by natural disturbances, or trees that are cut to manage long-term ecological values in the forest. If not used, these additional sources of wood fibre are typically left to decompose into the atmosphere, or may be burned onsite.Supporting markets for all material harvested, as part of a sustainable forest management plan, ensures that no part of the harvested tree is wasted, and delivers economic benefits to Canadians. As part of Budget 2023, Canada announced $368.4 million over three years, starting in 2023-24 to NRCan to renew and update forest sector support, including for Indigenous leadership in the sector.
Response by the Minister of International Trade, Export Promotion, Small Business and Economic DevelopmentSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Arif ViraniForests provide a wide range of economic, social and environmental benefits for people and communities across Canada. They are a major source of income and employment for 300 communities across the country, directly employing 205,000 workers, including over 11,500 Indigenous workers. Canada is committed to Indigenous reconciliation and recognize the importance of natural resources to Indigenous Peoples.With respect to the proposal to ban the export of raw logs, logs are integral to the domestic manufacturing industry for a wide range of forest products including softwood lumber and other products like high value finished veneer panels. Domestic and international trade in logs is important for log harvesters and Canadian trade. The policy and process governing the export of logs harvested in British Columbia contained in Global Affairs Canada’s Notice to Exporters No. 102 form an important part of the Government’s efforts to ensure the right balance between log exports and domestic policy objectives.The Government regularly reviews policies to ensure that Canada’s domestic policy objectives and trade opportunities are maximized and welcomes all ideas and proposals related to its policies, including those associated with the export of raw logs. The Government is committed to continuing to work and collaborate closely with Indigenous Peoples and all stakeholders and partners on this issue to achieve the best possible results for Canada.
Environmental protectionForest policyIndigenous policy
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJune 9, 2023e-4356e-4356 (Environment)AlexHarrisElizabethMaySaanich—Gulf IslandsGreen PartyBCMarch 13, 2023, at 1:45 p.m. (EDT)April 12, 2023, at 1:45 p.m. (EDT)April 26, 2023June 9, 2023April 12, 2023Petition to the <Addressee type="4" affiliationId="278910" mp-riding-display="1">Minister of Environment and Climate Change</Addressee>Whereas:The Port of Vancouver is proposing to double the size of its shipping terminal at Roberts Bank in the Fraser River Estuary in BC;The project would create a new 108 hectare concrete island in the middle of the estuary;Terminal 2 will further destroy habitat in an estuary that has already lost more than 70% of its floodplain habitat;The Fraser Estuary supports 102 species considered at-risk of extinction;The Fraser River Estuary is habitat for at-risk species, including endangered Southern Resident killer whales and Fraser Chinook salmon, the former of which are listed under Schedule 1 of the Species at Risk Act;Fraser River Chinook salmon are a transboundary species that are subject to the international Pacific Salmon Treaty. They are of ecological, economic, and cultural importance;Southern Resident killer whales have legally-protected Critical Habitat in the Fraser estuary;The federal Impact Assessment Agency identified irreversible impacts that Terminal 2 would have on Southern Resident killer whales, Fraser River Chinook salmon, and other wildlife;The federal Impact Assessment Agency determined that the project impacts on Southern Resident killer whales from decreased abundance of Fraser Chinook within critical habitat would constitute a violation of the Species at Risk Act; andCanada’s commitments to species recovery and biodiversity, as stated at COP15, run contrary to approval of Terminal 2.We, the undersigned, residents of Canada, call upon the Minister of Environment and Climate Change to utilize the collective evidence presented by Canada’s Impact Assessment Agency, peer-reviewed scientific research, and local conservation organizations to reject the proposed Roberts Bank Terminal 2 expansion in the Fraser River Estuary.
Response by the Minister of Environment and Climate ChangeSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable STEVEN GUILBEAULTThank you for your petition dated April 26, 2023, regarding the Roberts Bank Terminal 2 Project.The project was subject to an environmental assessment under the Canadian Environmental Assessment Act, 2012 (CEAA 2012). The assessment was conducted by an independent expert Review Panel. The Panel completed its review of the Project and issued its report on March 27, 2020.To help inform decision-making, on August 24, 2020, the Minister of Environment and Climate Change requested that the Vancouver Fraser Port Authority provide additional information, including on fish and fish habitat, potential effects on Southern Resident Killer Whale, salinity relating to biofilm and Western Sandpiper, as well as potential effects on Indigenous communities.On April 20, 2023, the Government of Canada decided that the project can proceed. The approval of this project comes after extensive consultation with local communities and Indigenous groups. The project is subject to 370 legally binding conditions to protect the environment, local wildlife and land-use activities of Indigenous peoples. These conditions include:
  • Over 100 measures protective of local wildlife such as developing habitat creation programs to support western sandpiper populations and other shorebirds;
  • Development and implementation of an adaptive management approach to prevent negative effects to biofilm, which includes a minimum of three years of monitoring key parameters reviewed by an independent scientific body;
  • Limiting in-water construction to the window of least risk for several marine species;
  • Requirement for zero-emission cargo handling equipment on-site and to offer electrical power to vessels while berthed;
  • Installation of infrastructure to permit the safe passage of fish;
  • Requirement to avoid, mitigate and offset effects to fish and fish habitat and develop a follow-up program to monitor any impacts to the region's salmon as a result of the project;
  • Creation of a marine mammals' detection and response plan to protect marine mammals during construction; and
  • To further protect Southern Resident Killer Whales, the proponent must monitor noise levels to remain at or below a certain baseline level, implement procedures to delay departures of container vessels and reduce underwater noise during berthing activities when whales are present in the project area.
The Government of Canada also announced over $45 million to accommodate project impacts on Indigenous rights in order to preserve, promote and develop Indigenous culture, heritage and stewardship activities. This funding will also establish a Stewardship Committee.As a condition of approval of the project, the Vancouver Fraser Port Authority must also put in place a $150-million financial guarantee to ensure funds are available for the first three years of construction to comply with these legally binding conditions.These legally binding protection measures build on existing and planned work by the Government of Canada to protect local species and marine mammals on the West Coast including Southern Resident Killer Whales and Chinook Salmon, such as:
  • Canada's Oceans Protection Plan, which is providing over $3.5 billion to protect Canada's coasts and waterways;
  • A new $151.9 million through Budget 2023 to protect endangered whales which is a renewal of the Whale Initiative first announced in 2018; and 
  • $165.4 million through Budget 2023 to establish a Green Shipping Corridor Program to spur the launch of the next generation of clean ships, invest in shore power technology, and prioritize low-emission and low-noise vessels at ports.
  • Federal finance tools to further support efforts to reduce noise impacts to species and reduce greenhouse gases, including the Canada Infrastructure Bank, which as part of its $5 billion Public Transit Priority has financing available for conversion to zero-emission ferries.
The project will be key to supporting Canada's economic growth over the coming years. Canada's Pacific Gateway is Canada's most important trade corridor with over $275 billion of trade passing through the Vancouver Fraser Port Authority each year. In the coming years, the Government believes Canada's major west coast ports will reach maximum capacity, meaning congestion will become a chronic issue. This project would increase the port's capacity by 50 per cent. Without this port expansion, $3 billion in added GDP would be jeopardized by capacity shortages. The project is also expected to create hundreds of jobs during construction, and several hundred more both onsite and off-site during operations.The Government of Canada is committed to protecting the environment while ensuring that projects critical to Canadian workers and businesses can proceed in a responsible manner.   
Environmental protectionPorts and harboursRoberts Bank
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMay 12, 2023441-01235441-01235 (Environment)GordJohnsCourtenay—AlberniNDPBCMarch 29, 2023May 12, 2023February 6, 2023PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLEDWe, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons in Parliament Assembled to the following:Whereas:
  • There are significant risks to workers and the environment associated with ship recycling due to the presence of a wide variety of hazardous materials in end-of-life marine vessels;
  • Unlike other jurisdictions, Canada lacks standards on ship recycling and unregulated ship recycling activities which are putting our oceans, coastal communities and workers at risk; and
  • The lack of domestic oversight of ship recycling and disposal of end-of-life marine vessels frustrates Canada's ability to ensure compliance with its international obligations under the Basel Convention.
Therefore, we, the undersigned, citizens and resident of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to support Motion M-68 and:1. Develop enforceable federal standards to reduce the negative environmental and social impacts of ship recycling that meet or exceed those set out in the EU Ship Recycling Regulation;2. Provide assistance through loans or grants to long-term, reputable ship recycling companies to facilitate implementation of new federal standards into their operations; and3. Develop a strategy for recycling end-of-life federally owned marine vessels.
Response by the Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast GuardSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Mike KellowayThe Government of Canada is committed to protecting the health and safety of Canadians and the environment from the potential risks of marine pollution. This includes working to improve water quality and our marine environments from coast to coast to coast.There are certain existing federal rules that may apply to ship recycling activities. Under the Canada Shipping Act, 2001 or the Wrecked, Abandoned or Hazardous Vessels Act, the federal government has powers to address any pollution discharge, or mitigate the risk of pollution discharge, from any vessel still in the water. In addition, the pollution prevention provisions of the Fisheries Act (subsection 36(3)) prohibit the deposit of any deleterious substance in waters frequented by fish or to any place where it may enter water frequented by fish, unless authorized by federal regulations. Further, any in-water portion of ship recycling activity may require approval under the Canada Navigable Waters Act if it occurs in navigable waters.The European Union (EU) implemented its ship recycling regulations (the EU Ship Recycling Regulation) in 2020. These regulations largely replicate the standards and provisions set out in the Hong Kong Convention for the Safe and Environmentally Sound Recycling of Ships (Hong Kong Convention) which Canada endorsed in 2009 but has not ratified.Canada supports the intent of the Hong Kong Convention as it is designed to set a level playing field to improve conditions in ship recycling facilities while diminishing the impact of ship recycling operations on human health, safety, and the environment – particularly in countries that have robust ship recycling operations but lack conditions and systems to keep workers safe and minimize environmental impacts.In 2021 and 2022, Canada engaged four key provinces that currently have, or are considering having, recycling operations for larger ships (British Columbia, Ontario, Quebec and Nova Scotia). This was done because many of the provisions of the Hong Kong Convention fall under provincial jurisdiction – notably around waste management, land-use zoning, and occupational health and safety. Each of these provinces confirmed their existing legislative authorities already adequately embody the intent and objectives of the Convention. Each of these provinces also indicated their willingness to work with the federal government to advance environmentally sustainable ship recycling in Canada.The Government of Canada is currently analyzing if there are opportunities to strengthen federal legislation with respect to the safe and environmentally sound recycling of ships. This includes examining requirements that are specific to vessels under the EU Ship Recycling Regulation and the Hong Kong Convention.Provinces and territories are responsible for the protection of workers and occupational health and safety at ship recycling facilities, as well as regulating the handling, storage, transportation, and disposal of waste produced when a ship is recycled. This essentially makes most activities related to ship recycling facilities subject to provincial/territories jurisdiction. For this reason, no federal assistance program has been considered at this time.Marine operators across the Federal Government are working to ensure the federal fleet is managed in a sustainable manner that achieves best value for Canadians, which includes value for money, operational readiness, environmental protection and increased collaboration with Indigenous communities. In order to achieve this, a suite of whole-of-government supply tools have been established that support all stages of vessel disposal- from technical assessments, to disposals, to deconstruction and recycling (if/when required). Currently, a supply arrangement for Marine Technical Services Assessments as well as a Supply Arrangement for Small Vessel Disposal are in place.Work is underway to publish the final supply arrangement for Medium and Large Vessel Disposals this Spring. By leveraging these common supply tools the Federal Government is ensuring a common approach to how it procures disposal services. Furthermore, the Government of Canada is moving towards more predictable whole-of-government approach to vessel disposal planning and industry engagement. This June will mark the first Federal Marine Procurement Outlook in which disposals will be included. Industry engagement sessions and workshops are also being planned for spring 2023 to ensure suppliers, communities and organizations understand Canada’s expected program of work and standards for vessel disposals. 
Response by the Minister of Public Services and ProcurementSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Anthony HousefatherMarine operators across the federal government are working to ensure the federal fleet is managed in a sustainable manner that achieves best value for Canadians, which includes value for money, operational readiness, environmental protection and increased collaboration with Indigenous communities. To achieve this, a suite of government-wide procurement instruments have been established to support all stages of vessel disposal, including technical assessments, disposals, and deconstruction and recycling (if/when required). Currently, a supply arrangement for marine technical services and a supply arrangement for small vessel disposal are in place.  Work is underway to establish a supply arrangement for medium and large vessel disposals in late Spring 2023. By leveraging these procurement instruments, the federal government is ensuring a consistent approach to disposal services.To move toward a more predictable approach to vessel disposal planning and engagement, beginning in June 2023, upcoming disposal opportunities will form part of regular Federal Marine Procurement updates at various Marine conferences and events across Canada.  In addition, industry engagement sessions and workshops are being planned for Spring 2023 to ensure suppliers, communities and organizations understand Canada’s planned program of work and standards for disposals. The material presented at these events will be made available on CanadaBuys.canada.ca.
Response by the Minister of TransportSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Omar AlghabraPart 1: The Government of Canada is committed to protecting the health and safety of Canadians and the environment from the potential risks of marine pollution. This includes working to improve water quality and Canada’s marine environments from coast to coast to coast.There are certain existing federal rules that may apply to ship recycling activities. Under the Canada Shipping Act, 2001 or the Wrecked, Abandoned or Hazardous Vessels Act, the federal government has powers to address any pollution discharge, or mitigate the risk of pollution discharge, from any vessel still in the water. In addition, the pollution prevention provisions of the Fisheries Act (subsection 36(3)) prohibit the deposit of any deleterious substance in waters frequented by fish or to any place where it may enter water frequented by fish, unless authorized by federal regulations. Further, any in-water portion of ship recycling activity may require approval under the Canada Navigable Waters Act if it occurs in navigable waters.The European Union implemented its ship recycling regulations (the EU Ship Recycling Regulation) in 2020. These regulations largely replicate the standards and provisions set out in the Hong Kong Convention for the Safe and Environmentally Sound Recycling of Ships (Hong Kong Convention) which Canada endorsed in 2009, but has not ratified.Canada supports the intent of the Hong Kong Convention as it is designed to set a level playing field to improve conditions in ship recycling facilities while diminishing the impact of ship recycling operations on human health, safety, and the environment – particularly in countries that have robust ship recycling operations but lack conditions and systems to keep workers safe and minimize environmental impacts.In 2021 and 2022, Canada engaged four key provinces that currently have, or are considering having, recycling operations for larger ships (British Columbia, Ontario, Quebec and Nova Scotia). This was done because many of the provisions of the Hong Kong Convention fall under provincial jurisdiction – notably around waste management, land-use zoning, and occupational health and safety. Each of these provinces confirmed their existing legislative authorities already adequately embody the intent and objectives of the Convention. Each of these provinces also indicated their willingness to work with the federal government to advance environmentally sustainable ship recycling in Canada.The Government of Canada is currently analyzing if there are opportunities to strengthen federal legislation with respect to the safe and environmentally sound recycling of ships. This includes examining requirements that are specific to vessels under the EU Ship Recycling Regulation and the Hong Kong Convention.Part 2: Provinces and territories are responsible for the protection of workers and occupational health and safety at ship recycling facilities, as well as regulating the handling, storage, transportation, and disposal of waste produced when a ship is recycled. This essentially makes most activities related to ship recycling facilities subject to provincial/territories jurisdiction.For this reason, no federal assistance program has been considered at this time.However, through Bill C-47, tabled on April 20, 2023, the federal government is proposing to create an owner-financed vessel remediation fund that would enable more proactive response to wrecked or abandoned vessels posing hazards, as well as support preventative measures that expand options for owners to comply with the Wrecked, Abandoned or Hazardous Vessels Act. This would include funding for research and development to enhance vessel recycling and disposal options as well as Indigenous and community capacity building related to vessel recycling, dismantling and disposal. 
Environmental protectionM-68Shipbuilding industryWaste management
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMay 10, 2023441-01200441-01200 (Environment)ElizabethMaySaanich—Gulf IslandsGreen PartyBCMarch 27, 2023May 10, 2023November 18, 2022PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLEDWe, the undersigned, citizens of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:WHEREAS:Given current ecological, social and economic crises, our collective future depends on all levels of government and Canadians to make informed and responsible decisions regarding environment and sustainability matters;We have entered an age whereby human impact is approaching many ecological system boundaries such as fresh water usage, atmospheric pollution, and extinction of species;The current state of environmental education in Canada is inadequate to address these challenges and empower citizens to understand the complexity of the issues and take effective action; and The government of Canada should provide coherent national leadership in environmental and sustainability education and recognize the importance of Indigenous Knowledges and practices in the education of Indigenous and non-indigenous peoples.THEREFORE, your petitioners call on the House of Commons to take a leadership role in enacting a Canadian strategy that supports educators, communicators, community leaders, as well as provincial and municipal governments to take actions that result in healthy, sustainable, and flourishing human and ecological communities.
Response by the Minister of Environment and Climate ChangeSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable STEVEN GUILBEAULTThe Minister of the Environment and Climate Change has a mandate to provide Canadians with environmental information in the public interest and promote and encourage practices and conduct that help to preserve the environment, in cooperation with partners such as provincial governments, Indigenous peoples, not-for-profit organizations, academic institutions and others to advance this mission. Last year, the Minister was also mandated by the Prime Minister to engage with Canadians to better communicate the impact of climate change. Environmental education is critical to tackling the environmental challenges Canada is facing today and will face tomorrow. It is also an important part of our international commitments. Canada is actively engaged in the work of Action for Climate Empowerment (ACE) of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). ACE emphasizes the importance of education to address the climate crisis and promote sustainability. Its overarching goal is to empower people to engage in climate action through education, training, public awareness, public participation, public access to information, and international cooperation on these issues. It also emphasizes the importance of youth voices in climate change action.These obligations are taken very seriously, and the Department recognizes that more needs to be done to improve access to climate and environmental education. The views expressed in this petition will be taken under consideration.In Canada, provinces and territories are responsible for organizing, delivering, and assessing all levels of education. The Government of Canada contributes to sustainability knowledge and education through various means including by undertaking and funding critical research that provides the foundation for environmental and sustainability education; working with and providing funding and support to diverse partners across Canada in support of this mission, and leading the Federal Sustainable Development Strategy.Information, Research and ScienceThe Government of Canada has conducted a national assessment process of how and why Canada’s climate is changing. This assessment discusses the impacts of these changes on communities, environment, and the economy, and details how Canadians are adapting. A series of reports that followed the national assessment raise awareness of the issues facing the country and provide information to Canadians to support sound decisions and actions that address climate change and adapt to its impacts.The Government of Canada is also implementing the Roadmap for Open Science. This will make the scientific research process more inclusive and accessible to scientists and Canadians by making data and publications open and making research understandable and useful. In addition, the Government of Canada is developing a climate data strategy to ensure that the private sector and communities have access to data to inform planning and infrastructure investments.At Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC), the Canadian Centre for Climate Services provides information to improve Canadians’ understanding of how the climate is changing and how those changes could affect them, as well as guidance and resources to make climate-smart decisions.The Canadian Environmental Sustainability Indicators program publishes high-quality indicators that provide Canadians with information on Canada's performance on environmental sustainability issues including climate change quality, water quality and availability, and species at risk.Research shows that Canadians trust scientists. To leverage its scientific resources, ECCC has developed a pilot program, in French and English, which helps ECCC scientists, researchers and science experts to become better science communicators and harness storytelling and presentation techniques to reach and motivate more Canadians to take environmental and climate action. Once trained, these experts are connected to the Canadian public through a network of schools, museums, science centres as well non-governmental organizations.Working with PartnersThe Program of Applied Research on Climate Action in Canada (PARCA) https://impact.canada.ca/en/behavioural-science/parca is a multi-year program of research on climate change, running from September 2021 to March 2024. It is a partnership between Environment and Climate Change Canada, Natural Resources Canada, and the Privy Council Office’s Impact and Innovation Unit. PARCA is using behavioural science for an evidenced-based, data-driven approach to understanding what drives choices and behaviours and what barriers stand in the way of greater climate and environmental action. This will help point the way to more impactful interventions by factoring in actual behaviour.  Behaviourally informed solutions will be tested online and then in the real world for their potential to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and promote climate adaptation at the individual and community levels. This work will generate new insights on a rapid timeframe and use them to inform policy development, program design, and communications. A large network of internal and external partners, including partners at multilateral organizations and an advisory committee of subject matter experts, are guiding the research program to help ensure its relevance, rigour, and impact. PARCA data pointed directly to the need for the kinds of partnerships ECCC is developing to build climate literacy.Youth have an important role to play in climate action. Today’s youth and future generations will face the gravest environmental and climate consequences. The youth population is also particularly susceptible to mis- and dis-information. Meaningful youth engagement and education in environment and climate action is essential in building a more sustainable future. That is why the Environment and Climate Change Youth Council (ECCYC) was formed in August 2022. The ECCYC is a group of young Canadians who are passionate about protecting the environment and taking climate action. They have been selected to advise on key environmental and climate issues to inform decisions by the Government of Canada. The ECCYC is engaged on the Government’s climate communication and education initiatives and plays an important role in connecting with diverse community, national and international networks to help mobilize youth for climate action.The Government of Canada also contributes to sustainability knowledge and education by funding research through the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada and the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council. In addition, ECCC’s EcoAction Community Funding Program provides financial support to non-profit and non-government organizations for Canadian communities to take on local action-based projects that produce measurable and positive effects on the environment and to build their capacity to sustain these activities in the future. EcoAction funds projects that lead to tangible environmental results, engage the community to improve the environment, increase environmental awareness and capacity in communities, and result in sustainable outcomes and engagement following project completion.The Environmental Damages Fund (EDF) is a specified purpose account administered by ECCC, on behalf of the Government of Canada, to direct funds received from fines, court orders and voluntary payments to priority projects that will benefit Canada’s natural environment. EDF funding is available for projects that address one or more of the program’s priority areas. Priority is given to projects that restore the natural environment and conserve wildlife, improve environmental quality, undertake research and development on environmental restoration and improve and/or advance education and awareness on issues affecting the health of the natural environment. This could include, for example, promoting education related to environmental damage restoration, including training for the assessment and restoration of damage, or for increased awareness and compliance with environmental regulations.Federal  Sustainable Development StrategyThe Government of Canada provides federal leadership on environmental and sustainability issues through the Federal Sustainable Development Strategy, as detailed in the Federal Sustainable Development Act. Key aspects of this work are openness and transparency in providing information about sustainability in Canada. The Federal Sustainable Development Strategy brings the federal government’s sustainable development priorities, goals, targets and actions together in one place and enables parliamentarians and Canadians to track progress.All federal organizations subject to the Federal Sustainable Development Act are also required to develop a Departmental Sustainable Development Strategy every three years and report on its progress. These documents provide specific details on all departments’ plans and actions that advance sustainable development in Canada. As is stated by the Federal Sustainable Development Act,the Government of Canada recognizes the importance of involving Indigenous peoples in developing the Federal Sustainable Development Strategy given their Traditional Knowledge and unique understanding of, and connection to, Canada’s lands and waters. Indigenous youth will inherit the results of Canada’s sustainable development efforts. It is critical that no future generation of Indigenous youth is “left behind”. 
Environmental protectionSustainable communities
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMay 3, 2023441-01185441-01185 (Environment)AlexRuffBruce—Grey—Owen SoundConservativeONMarch 20, 2023May 3, 2023March 20, 2023Petition to the Member of Parliament for Bruce—Grey—Owen SoundWhereas:The negative impacts of TC Energy's project will have on our pristine water, local landscape and environment, community, property values and emotional wellbeing must be addressed.We the undersigned, as concerned residents of the Municipality of Meaford and neighbouring towns, call upon all levels of Municipal, Provincial, and Federal Government, to stop TC Energy from building a pumped storage facility on the shores of Georgian Bay and nearby residents of the 4th Canadian Division Training Centre.
Response by the Minister of Environment and Climate ChangeSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable STEVEN GUILBEAULTThe Impact Assessment Agency of Canada conducts federal impact assessments of major projects pursuant to the Impact Assessment Act (the IAA). The federal process for assessments includes the assessment of positive and negative environmental, economic, health and social effects.The Agency understands that TC Energy’s proposed hydroelectric pumped-storage plant would be subject to the IAA. The Agency is awaiting the submission of an acceptable initial description of the project by the proponent.Assessments by the Agency involve consultation with the public, Indigenous peoples, federal authorities and all other interested participants including provincial officials.Further information on the Agency is available online at https://www.canada.ca/en/impact-assessment-agency.html.Questions on the Agency’s process can be directed to the Agency’s Ontario Region office via email at ontarioregion-regiondontario@iaac-aeic.ca.
Response by the Minister of National DefenceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Bryan MayNational Defence manages more than 2,000,000 hectares of land and over 20,000 buildings across Canada. As a custodian of Crown land, National Defence is responsible for considering third-party access to its real property upon request.Situated on 7,685 hectares of land next to Georgian Bay, the 4th Canadian Division Training Centre Meaford (4 CDTC) is a training facility for the Regular and Reserve Forces. TC Energy has proposed the construction of a hydroelectric facility in the area, and subsequently requested access to 200 hectares of National Defence’s land in Meaford. The electricity generated by the proposed hydroelectric facility would be sold to the Ontario power grid.In July 2021, National Defence signed an Agreement in Principle with TC Energy which determined that the project can be operationally accommodated at 4 CDTC subject to assurances that its construction and operation will not cause negative impacts on Canadian Armed Forces operations, and that all necessary provincial and federal assessments are completed. The Agreement In Principle allows TC Energy to pursue an Impact Assessment under the federal Impact Assessment Act. The Impact Assessment will evaluate a wide range of potential issues including environmental, health, social, and economic impacts and benefits, as well as potential impacts on Indigenous peoples.Consultation and engagement will continue as the project proceeds through further assessments and regulatory approvals.National Defence has undertaken the following steps as part of its decision making process:
  • Initial feasibility testing and review:
    • In August 2020, National Defence approved a temporary access agreement to allow TC Energy to complete its engineering and environmental feasibility testing and studies at 4 CDTC Meaford. This follows a temporary access agreement that National Defence issued to TC Energy in May 2019.
    • In June 2019 and July 2021, National Defence notified local Indigenous groups that the temporary access agreement may be extended for further study, and that a review of TC Energy’s testing results will be conducted as a part of National Defence’s decision making process.
  • Internal Assessment and Public Consultations:
    • From May 2019 to September 2020, National Defence consulted Indigenous groups, municipalities, the provincial government, and external stakeholders. These consultations included an online forum and participation at three TC Energy town halls. During these consultations, National Defence heard concerns regarding the possible impact on the environment, the economy, community safety, health, as well as the importance of the land and its historical ties to community members. The Impact Assessment Agency of Canada will assess and review these concerns under the Impact Assessment process.
    • From 2019 to 2021, National Defence conducted its own comprehensive internal assessment to determine the project’s potential impact on operational readiness, personnel training, the environment, and Indigenous groups. The assessment raised potential concerns regarding the impact of the project on training and operations conducted at 4 CDTC. National Defence will continue to assess and update these concerns as the project evolves, and as results from the Impact Assessment are received.
    • In July 2021, following National Defence’s internal assessment, the department signed an Agreement In Principle with TC Energy, allowing the company to proceed to an Impact Assessment.
    • National Defence will also conduct an Environmental Effects Determination, as stipulated in the Impact Assessment Act, related to the proposed relocation of Base infrastructure. Wildlife at risk studies to support this determination have begun, and additional support studies are anticipated to commence in May 2023. The Agreement in Principle commits TC Energy to pay all costs associated with this work.
National Defence anticipates that TC Energy will pursue Impact and Environmental Assessment processes with both the federal and provincial governments. Should these assessments be positive, TC Energy may then seek a licence for the project under the Dominion Water Power Act. The project will not move forward unless it is approved by provincial and federal regulatory agencies, and National Defence determines that the project will not negatively impact the conduct of operations and training at 4 CDTC Meaford.National Defence and TC Energy will continue consultation and engagement as the project proceeds through further assessments and regulatory approvals. The Government of Canada will continue to assess the project through the Impact Assessment Agency of Canada, as well as through relevant federal and provincial government stakeholders.National Defence will continue to remain open and transparent as the department, Government of Canada, and TC Energy conduct these assessments, and will continue to provide updates, when available, at: http://Canada.ca/Meaford-energy-consultation.
Environmental protectionGeorgian BayRenewable energy and fuel
44th Parliament223Government response tabledApril 17, 2023441-01155441-01155 (Environment)GordJohnsCourtenay—AlberniNDPBCFebruary 16, 2023April 17, 2023February 6, 2023PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLEDWe, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons in Parliament Assembled to the following:Whereas:
  • There are significant risks to workers and the environment associated with ship recycling due to the presence of a wide variety of hazardous materials in end-of-life marine vessels;
  • Unlike other jurisdictions, Canada lacks standards on ship recycling and unregulated ship recycling activities which are putting our oceans, coastal communities and workers at risk; and
  • The lack of domestic oversight of ship recycling and disposal of end-of-life marine vessels frustrates Canada's ability to ensure compliance with its international obligations under the Basel Convention.
Therefore, we, the undersigned, citizens and resident of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to support Motion M-68 and:1. Develop enforceable federal standards to reduce the negative environmental and social impacts of ship recycling that meet or exceed those set out in the EU Ship Recycling Regulation;2. Provide assistance through loans or grants to long-term, reputable ship recycling companies to facilitate implementation of new federal standards into their operations; and3. Develop a strategy for recycling end-of-life federally owned marine vessels.
Response by the Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast GuardSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Mike Kelloway1. The Government of Canada is committed to protecting the health and safety of Canadians and the environment from the potential risks of marine pollution. This includes working to improve water quality and our marine environments from coast to coast to coast.There are certain existing federal rules that may apply to ship recycling activities. Under the Canada Shipping Act, 2001 or the Wrecked, Abandoned or Hazardous Vessels Act, the federal government has powers to address any pollution discharge, or mitigate the risk of pollution discharge, from any vessel still in the water. In addition, the pollution prevention provisions of the Fisheries Act (subsection 36(3)) prohibit the deposit of any deleterious substance in waters frequented by fish or to any place where it may enter water frequented by fish, unless authorized by federal regulations. Further, any in-water portion of ship recycling activity may require approval under the Canada Navigable Waters Act if it occurs in navigable waters.The European Union (EU) implemented its ship recycling regulations (the EU Ship Recycling Regulation) in 2020. These regulations largely replicate the standards and provisions set out in the Hong Kong Convention for the Safe and Environmentally Sound Recycling of Ships (Hong Kong Convention) which Canada endorsed in 2009 but has not ratified.Canada supports the intent of the Hong Kong Convention as it is designed to set a level playing field to improve conditions in ship recycling facilities while diminishing the impact of ship recycling operations on human health, safety, and the environment – particularly in countries that have robust ship recycling operations but lack conditions and systems to keep workers safe and minimize environmental impacts.In 2021 and 2022, Canada engaged four key provinces that currently have, or are considering having, recycling operations for larger ships (British Columbia, Ontario, Quebec and Nova Scotia). This was done because many of the provisions of the Hong Kong Convention fall under provincial jurisdiction – notably around waste management, land-use zoning, and occupational health and safety. Each of these provinces confirmed their existing legislative authorities already adequately embody the intent and objectives of the Convention.Each of these provinces also indicated their willingness to work with the federal government to advance environmentally sustainable ship recycling in Canada. The Government of Canada is currently analyzing if there are opportunities to strengthen federal legislation with respect to the safe and environmentally sound recycling of ships. This includes examining requirements that are specific to vessels under the EU Ship Recycling Regulation and the Hong Kong Convention.2. Provinces and territories are responsible for the protection of workers and occupational health and safety at ship recycling facilities, as well as regulating the handling, storage, transportation, and disposal of waste produced when a ship is recycled. This essentially makes most activities related to ship recycling facilities subject to provincial/territories jurisdiction. For this reason, no federal assistance program has been considered at this time.3. Marine operators across the Federal Government are working to ensure the federal fleet is managed in a sustainable manner that achieves best value for Canadians, which includes value for money, operational readiness, environmental protection and increased collaboration with Indigenous communities. In order to achieve this, a suite of whole-of-government supply tools have been established that support all stages of vessel disposal- from technical assessments, to disposals, to deconstruction and recycling (if/when required). Currently, a supply arrangement for Marine Technical Services Assessments as well as a Supply Arrangement for Small Vessel Disposal are in place. Work is underway to publish the final supply arrangement for Medium and Large Vessel Disposals this Spring. By leveraging these common supply tools the Federal Government is ensuring a common approach to how it procures disposal services. Furthermore, the Government of Canada is moving towards more predictable whole-of-government approach to vessel disposal planning and industry engagement. This June will mark the first Federal Marine Procurement Outlook in which disposals will be included. Industry engagement sessions and workshops are also being planned for spring 2023 to ensure suppliers, communities and organizations understand Canada’s expected program of work and standards for vessel disposals.
Response by the Minister of TransportSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Omar AlghabraPart 1: The Government of Canada is committed to protecting the health and safety of Canadians and the environment from the potential risks of marine pollution. This includes working to improve water quality and Canada’s marine environments from coast to coast to coast.There are certain existing federal rules that may apply to ship recycling activities. Under the Canada Shipping Act, 2001 or the Wrecked, Abandoned or Hazardous Vessels Act, the federal government has powers to address any pollution discharge, or mitigate the risk of pollution discharge, from any vessel still in the water. In addition, the pollution prevention provisions of the Fisheries Act (subsection 36(3)) prohibit the deposit of any deleterious substance in waters frequented by fish or to any place where it may enter water frequented by fish, unless authorized by federal regulations. Further, any in-water portion of ship recycling activity may require approval under the Canada Navigable Waters Act if it occurs in navigable waters.The European Union implemented its ship recycling regulations (the EU Ship Recycling Regulation) in 2020. These regulations largely replicate the standards and provisions set out in the Hong Kong Convention for the Safe and Environmentally Sound Recycling of Ships (Hong Kong Convention) which Canada endorsed in 2009, but has not ratified.Canada supports the intent of the Hong Kong Convention as it is designed to set a level playing field to improve conditions in ship recycling facilities while diminishing the impact of ship recycling operations on human health, safety, and the environment – particularly in countries that have robust ship recycling operations but lack conditions and systems to keep workers safe and minimize environmental impacts.In 2021 and 2022, Canada engaged four key provinces that currently have, or are considering having, recycling operations for larger ships (British Columbia, Ontario, Quebec and Nova Scotia). This was done because many of the provisions of the Hong Kong Convention fall under provincial jurisdiction – notably around waste management, land-use zoning, and occupational health and safety. Each of these provinces confirmed their existing legislative authorities already adequately embody the intent and objectives of the Convention. Each of these provinces also indicated their willingness to work with the federal government to advance environmentally sustainable ship recycling in Canada.The Government of Canada is currently analyzing if there are opportunities to strengthen federal legislation with respect to the safe and environmentally sound recycling of ships. This includes examining requirements that are specific to vessels under the EU Ship Recycling Regulation and the Hong Kong Convention.Part 2: Provinces and territories are responsible for the protection of workers and occupational health and safety at ship recycling facilities, as well as regulating the handling, storage, transportation, and disposal of waste produced when a ship is recycled. This essentially makes most activities related to ship recycling facilities subject to provincial/territories jurisdiction.For this reason, no federal assistance program has been considered at this time. 
Response by the Minister of Public Services and ProcurementSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Anthony HousefatherMarine operators across the federal government are working to ensure the federal fleet is managed in a sustainable manner that achieves best value for Canadians, which includes value for money, operational readiness, environmental protection and increased collaboration with Indigenous communities. To achieve this, a suite of government-wide procurement instruments have been established to support all stages of vessel disposal, including technical assessments, disposals, and deconstruction and recycling (if/when required). Currently, a supply arrangement for marine technical services and a supply arrangement for small vessel disposal are in place.  Work is underway to establish a supply arrangement for medium and large vessel disposals in Spring 2023. By leveraging these procurement instruments, the federal government is ensuring a consistent approach to disposal services.To move toward a more predictable approach to vessel disposal planning and engagement, beginning in June 2023, upcoming disposal opportunities will form part of regular Federal Marine Procurement updates at various Marine conferences and events across Canada.  In addition industry engagement sessions and workshops are being planned for Spring 2023 to ensure suppliers, communities and organizations understand Canada’s planned program of work and standards for disposals. The material presented at these events will also be made available on CanadaBuys.
Environmental protectionM-68Shipbuilding industryWaste management
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMarch 29, 2023441-01138441-01138 (Environment)ElizabethMaySaanich—Gulf IslandsGreen PartyBCFebruary 13, 2023March 29, 2023November 22, 2022Petition to the House of Commons in Parliament AssembledWhereas:
  • Irresponsible practices by industry and multi-national corporations have led to the destruction and denigration of much of Canada's waterways and watersheds;
  • Current laws do not sufficiently protect Canada's waterways and watersheds from such irresponsible practices; and
  • Protecting waterways and watersheds also protects Canada's forests, fisheries, land, and air.
We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada call upon the House of Commons in Parliament assembled to:
  • Update Canada's water laws to ensure that no industry or corporation takes precedence over the health of Canada's waterways and watersheds, and by extension the health of the country's people, species, and land; and
  • Ensure Canada's water laws are updated under the guidance of professionals and specialists in the field of water conservation.
Response by the Minister of Environment and Climate ChangeSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable STEVEN GUILBEAULTA clean and safe freshwater supply is essential to the well-being of Canadians, the health and sustainability of the environment, and the economy. Hence, the Government of Canada has committed to:
  • establishing a federal Canada Water Agency to work with the provinces, territories, Indigenous communities, and other stakeholders to find the best ways to keep Canada’s water safe, clean, and well-managed;
  • implementing a strengthened Freshwater Action Plan, including a historic investment to provide funding to protect and restore large lakes and river systems starting with the Great Lakes-St. Lawrence River System, Lake Simcoe, the Lake Winnipeg Basin, the Fraser River Basin and the Mackenzie River Basin;
  • investing in the Experimental Lakes Area in northern Ontario to support international freshwater science and research; and
  • following the establishment of a Canada Water Agency, advancing the modernization of the Canada Water Act to reflect Canada’s freshwater reality including climate change and Indigenous rights.
To advance these commitments, Budget 2022 proposed to provide $88.1 million over 5 years in new funding for Environment and Climate Change Canada, which included:
  • $43.5 million over five years, starting in 2022-23, and $8.7 million ongoing to create the new Canada Water Agency.
  • $19.6 million in 2022-2023 to sustain the Freshwater Action Plan. This funding will support clean-up efforts in the Great Lakes, the St. Lawrence River, Lake Winnipeg, Lake of the Woods, the Fraser River, the Saint John River, the Mackenzie River, and Lake Simcoe. The future of this initiative will be communicated at a later date.
  • $25.0 million over five years, starting in 2022-2023, for the Experimental Lakes Area in northern Ontario to support international freshwater science and research.
Another way that the Government of Canada protects and conserves Canada’s water resources is by administering laws that control pollution such as the Fisheries Act.Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) is the lead department responsible for the administration and enforcement of the Fisheries Act pollution prevention provisions (except for their application to aquaculture and the control and eradication of aquatic invasive species and aquatic pests, which are under the responsibility of the Department of Fisheries and Ocean). Subsection 36(3) prohibits the deposit of any deleterious substances in water frequented by fish or to any place where it may enter water frequented by fish, unless authorized by federal regulations. Deleterious substances include any substance that, if added to water, would degrade, alter or form part of a process of degradation or alteration of the quality of water so that it is rendered deleterious to fish or fish habitat or to the use of fish by humans. Any regulations developed under section 36 set strict requirements on deposits to water. These regulations can impose conditions such as limits on the maximum quantities of deleterious substances released into water, and can include environmental effects monitoring and other reporting requirements for facilities. Modern Fisheries Act regulations include the Metal and Diamond Mining Effluent Regulations, the Pulp and Paper Effluent Regulations, and the Wastewater Systems Effluent Regulations.Environment and Climate Change Canada is developing proposed regulations to address deposits to water from coal mining and is investigating risk management approaches for tailings ponds from oil sands operations.To learn more about these proposed regulations, as well as upcoming improvements to existing regulations, please consult the Fisheries Act Forward Regulatory Plan 2022-2024 available at https://www.canada.ca/en/environment-climate-change/corporate/transparency/acts-regulations/forward-regulatory-plan/2022-2024/fisheries-act.html.Environment and Climate Change Canada enforces the subsection 36(3) prohibition, as well as regulations under the Fisheries Act according to the Compliance and Enforcement Policy for Habitat Protection and Pollution Prevention Provisions of the Fisheries Act: www.canada.ca/en/environment-climate-change/services/environmental-enforcement/publications/compliance-enforcement-policy-fisheries-act.html.
Environmental protectionInland watersWatersheds
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMarch 27, 2023441-01134441-01134 (Environment)GordJohnsCourtenay—AlberniNDPBCFebruary 10, 2023March 27, 2023February 6, 2023PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLEDWe, the undersigned residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons in Parliament Assembled to the following:Whereas:
  • There are significant risks to workers and the environment associated with ship recycling due to the presence of a wide variety of hazardous materials in end-of-life marine vessels;
  • Unlike other jurisdictions, Canada lacks standards on ship recycling and unregulated ship recycling activities which are putting our oceans, coastal communities and workers at risk; and
  • The lack of domestic oversight of ship recycling and disposal of end-of-life marine vessels frustrates Canada's ability to ensure compliance with its international obligations under the Basel Convention.
Therefore, we, the undersigned, citizens and resident of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to support Motion M-68 and:1. Develop enforceable federal standards to reduce the negative environmental and social impacts of ship recycling that meet or exceed those set out in the EU Ship Recycling Regulation;2. Provide assistance through loans or grants to long-term, reputable ship recycling companies to facilitate implementation of new federal standards into their operations; and3. Develop a strategy for recycling end-of-life federally owned marine vessels.
Response by the Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast GuardSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Mike Kelloway1 - The Government of Canada is committed to protecting the health and safety of Canadians and the environment from the potential risks of marine pollution. This includes working to improve water quality and our marine environments from coast to coast to coast.There are certain existing federal rules that may apply to ship recycling activities. Under the Canada Shipping Act, 2001 or the Wrecked, Abandoned or Hazardous Vessels Act, the federal government has powers to address any pollution discharge, or mitigate the risk of pollution discharge, from any vessel still in the water. In addition, the pollution prevention provisions of the Fisheries Act (subsection 36(3)) prohibit the deposit of any deleterious substance in waters frequented by fish or to any place where it may enter water frequented by fish, unless authorized by federal regulations. Further, any in-water portion of ship recycling activity may require approval under the Canada Navigable Waters Act if it occurs in navigable waters.The European Union (EU) implemented its ship recycling regulations (the EU Ship Recycling Regulation) in 2020. These regulations largely replicate the standards and provisions set out in the Hong Kong Convention for the Safe and Environmentally Sound Recycling of Ships (Hong Kong Convention) which Canada endorsed in 2009 but has not ratified.Canada supports the intent of the Hong Kong Convention as it is designed to set a level playing field to improve conditions in ship recycling facilities while diminishing the impact of ship recycling operations on human health, safety, and the environment – particularly in countries that have robust ship recycling operations but lack conditions and systems to keep workers safe and minimize environmental impacts.In 2021 and 2022, Canada engaged four key provinces that currently have, or are considering having, recycling operations for larger ships (British Columbia, Ontario, Quebec and Nova Scotia). This was done because many of the provisions of the Hong Kong Convention fall under provincial jurisdiction – notably around waste management, land-use zoning, and occupational health and safety. Each of these provinces confirmed their existing legislative authorities already adequately embody the intent and objectives of the Convention. Each of these provinces also indicated their willingness to work with the federal government to advance environmentally sustainable ship recycling in Canada.The Government of Canada is currently analyzing if there are opportunities to strengthen federal legislation with respect to the safe and environmentally sound recycling of ships. This includes examining requirements that are specific to vessels under the EU Ship Recycling Regulation and the Hong Kong Convention.2 - Provinces and territories are responsible for the protection of workers and occupational health and safety at ship recycling facilities, as well as regulating the handling, storage, transportation, and disposal of waste produced when a ship is recycled. This essentially makes most activities related to ship recycling facilities subject to provincial/territories jurisdiction. For this reason, no federal assistance program has been considered at this time.3 - Marine operators across the Federal Government are working to ensure the federal fleet is managed in a sustainable manner that achieves best value for Canadians, which includes value for money, operational readiness, environmental protection and increased collaboration with Indigenous communities. In order to achieve this, a suite of whole-of-government supply tools have been established that support all stages of vessel disposal- from technical assessments, to disposals, to deconstruction and recycling (if/when required). Currently, a supply arrangement for Marine Technical Services Assessments as well as a Supply Arrangement for Small Vessel Disposal are in place. Work is underway to publish the final supply arrangement for Medium and Large Vessel Disposals this Spring. By leveraging these common supply tools the Federal Government is ensuring a common approach to how it procures disposal services. Furthermore, the Government of Canada is moving towards more predictable whole-of-government approach to vessel disposal planning and industry engagement. This June will mark the first Federal Marine Procurement Outlook in which disposals will be included. Industry engagement sessions and workshops are also being planned for spring 2023 to ensure suppliers, communities and organizations understand Canada’s expected program of work and standards for vessel disposals.
Response by the Minister of TransportSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Omar AlghabraPart 1: The Government of Canada is committed to protecting the health and safety of Canadians and the environment from the potential risks of marine pollution. This includes working to improve water quality and Canada’s marine environments from coast to coast to coast.There are certain existing federal rules that may apply to ship recycling activities. Under the Canada Shipping Act, 2001 or the Wrecked, Abandoned or Hazardous Vessels Act, the federal government has powers to address any pollution discharge, or mitigate the risk of pollution discharge, from any vessel still in the water. In addition, the pollution prevention provisions of the Fisheries Act (subsection 36(3)) prohibit the deposit of any deleterious substance in waters frequented by fish or to any place where it may enter water frequented by fish, unless authorized by federal regulations. Further, any in-water portion of ship recycling activity may require approval under the Canada Navigable Waters Act if it occurs in navigable waters.The European Union implemented its ship recycling regulations (the EU Ship Recycling Regulation) in 2020. These regulations largely replicate the standards and provisions set out in the Hong Kong Convention for the Safe and Environmentally Sound Recycling of Ships (Hong Kong Convention) which Canada endorsed in 2009, but has not ratified.Canada supports the intent of the Hong Kong Convention as it is designed to set a level playing field to improve conditions in ship recycling facilities while diminishing the impact of ship recycling operations on human health, safety, and the environment – particularly in countries that have robust ship recycling operations but lack conditions and systems to keep workers safe and minimize environmental impacts.In 2021 and 2022, Canada engaged four key provinces that currently have, or are considering having, recycling operations for larger ships (British Columbia, Ontario, Quebec and Nova Scotia). This was done because many of the provisions of the Hong Kong Convention fall under provincial jurisdiction – notably around waste management, land-use zoning, and occupational health and safety. Each of these provinces confirmed their existing legislative authorities already adequately embody the intent and objectives of the Convention. Each of these provinces also indicated their willingness to work with the federal government to advance environmentally sustainable ship recycling in Canada.The Government of Canada is currently analyzing if there are opportunities to strengthen federal legislation with respect to the safe and environmentally sound recycling of ships. This includes examining requirements that are specific to vessels under the EU Ship Recycling Regulation and the Hong Kong Convention.Part 2: Provinces and territories are responsible for the protection of workers and occupational health and safety at ship recycling facilities, as well as regulating the handling, storage, transportation, and disposal of waste produced when a ship is recycled. This essentially makes most activities related to ship recycling facilities subject to provincial/territories jurisdiction.For this reason, no federal assistance program has been considered at this time. 
Response by the Minister of Public Services and ProcurementSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Anthony HousefatherMarine operators across the federal government are working to ensure the federal fleet is managed in a sustainable manner that achieves best value for Canadians, which includes value for money, operational readiness, environmental protection and increased collaboration with Indigenous communities. To achieve this, a suite of government-wide procurement instruments have been established to support all stages of vessel disposal, including technical assessments, disposals, and deconstruction and recycling (if/when required). Currently, a supply arrangement for marine technical services and a supply arrangement for small vessel disposal are in place.  Work is underway to establish a supply arrangement for medium and large vessel disposals in Spring 2023. By leveraging these procurement instruments, the federal government is ensuring a consistent approach to disposal services.To move toward a more predictable approach to vessel disposal planning and engagement, beginning in June 2023, upcoming disposal opportunities will form part of regular Federal Marine Procurement updates at various Marine conferences and events across Canada.  In addition industry engagement sessions and workshops are being planned for Spring 2023 to ensure suppliers, communities and organizations understand Canada’s planned program of work and standards for disposals. The material presented at these events will also be made available on CanadaBuys.
Environmental protectionM-68Shipbuilding industryWaste management
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 30, 2023441-01068441-01068 (Environment)RachelBlaneyNorth Island—Powell RiverNDPBCDecember 14, 2022January 30, 2023December 13, 2022Petition to the Minister of Environment and Climate ChangeWhereas:
  • The Qualicum Institute submitted an environmental petition to the Commissioner of the Environment and Sustainable Development and to the Minister of Environment and Climate Change on May 27, 2017 (No. 408) and the Minister's response was unsatisfactory;
  • We continue to be deeply concerned that the Canadian government is ignoring the overwhelming scientific evidence on the principal drivers of climate change and biodiversity loss, economic and population growth;
  • The IPCC has stated in at least two recent reports that "Globally, economic and population growth continue to be the most important drivers of increases in CO2 emissions from fossil fuel combustion. The contribution of population growth between 2000 and 2010 remained roughly identical to that of the previous three decades, while the contribution of economic growth has risen sharply (high confidence)"; and
  • With the COVID-19 pandemic impacting our health, economy, and environment, we cannot return to what was normal; continuous economic growth cannot be reconciled with a healthy environment; this crisis presents an opportunity to implement true science-based policies to address the current climate and biodiversity crises.
We, the undersigned scientists, concerned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Minister of Environment and Climate Change to:1. Recognize that the COVID-19 pandemic presents a unique opportunity to address the errors resulting from policy decisions of the past, specifically those related to the climate and biodiversity crises;2. Ensure that all future federal government economic initiatives are founded on a scientific understanding of the limits of economic and population growth;3. Align the national economy with Canadians' well-being and within the carrying capacity of the environment-not wealth generation or economic growth;4. Ensure the health and welfare of all Canadians by moving to a low-carbon-emission, steady state economy with a stable population and a stable level of resource consumption kept within ecological limits; and5. Prevent further biodiversity loss, restore our degraded life-supporting ecosystems, and protect at least 50% of all regional ecosystems.
Response by the Minister of Environment and Climate ChangeSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable STEVEN GUILBEAULTRegarding points 1, 4 and 5, Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) fully agrees on the urgency of addressing the dual crises of climate change and biodiversity loss. Since the Honourable member’s 2021 petition on this same issue (432-01242), the 27th Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), which took place in Egypt in November 2022, and the 15th Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), which took place in Montreal in December 2022, have demonstrated the increasing global focus on these issues.Canada took a strong international leadership role in the development of the ambitious new Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, which was adopted by the Parties to the United Nations Convention on Biological Diversity on December 19, 2022, to guide global efforts to 2030 to halt and reverse biodiversity loss. The Framework addresses the direct drivers of global biodiversity loss: land- and sea-use change; direct overexploitation; pollution; invasive species; as well as climate change given that we cannot solve the climate crisis without nature, nor can we solve the nature crisis without stabilizing the climate.Canada has committed to conserve 25% of our lands and waters by 2025 and 30% of each by 2030, working to halt and reverse biodiversity loss by 2030 in Canada, achieve a full recovery for nature by 2050 and champion this goal internationally.This is an ambitious goal.  Since 2015, Canada has increased its conserved terrestrial areas by more than 2%, roughly the size of Italy. As of December 2021, 13.5% of lands and inland waters have been conserved. On the marine side, Canada has conserved 14% of our marine and coastal areas, up from less than 1% in 2015. Budget 2021 investments are setting the stage to support efforts to conserve 30% of land and waters by 2030.Regarding points 2 and 3, ECCC would like to draw your attention to three targets within the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework. Target 14 speaks to the integration of biodiversity and its multiple values into policies, regulations, planning and development processes within and across all levels of government and across all sectors. Target 16 relates to ensuring that people are encouraged and enabled to make sustainable consumption choices and by 2030, reducing the global footprint of consumption in an equitable manner. Finally, Target 18 relates to identifying and eliminating, phasing out or reforming incentives, including subsidies, which are harmful for biodiversity and scaling up positive incentives for the conservation and sustainable use of biodiversity.With the successful conclusion of the Conference of the Parties (COP) 15, the focus in the coming months will be on the development of Canada’s national biodiversity strategy and action plan to 2030, which will go beyond protected areas to address all aspects of nature conservation and sustainable use. This will include, among other actions, furthering efforts to restore degraded ecosystems and accelerate action for species recovery; continue promoting and using nature-based solutions to better value and conserve Canada’s biodiversity, carbon-rich ecosystems; and, advance work to realign subsidies harmful to biodiversity toward nature-positive outcomes.Canada is committed to the full implementation of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework. As such, the Government has significantly scaled up investments in nature. Beginning in 2023–24, the department of Environment will provide up to $800 million over seven years to support up to four Indigenous-led conservation initiatives. Once completed, these projects could protect up to an additional one million square kilometres.In Budget 2021, the department of Environment invested $2.3 billion over five years to enable Canada to reach its goal of conserving 25% of our lands and oceans by 2025, and to work towards conserving 30% of each by 2030. Taken together with funding provided for the Nature Legacy Initiative announced in 2018, this represents the largest investment in nature conservation in Canada’s history.Additionally, between 2020 and 2022, the department of Environment invested over $5 billion to establish the Natural Climate Solutions Fund. This Fund is being used to plant two billion trees across Canada, and to restore and improve the management of forests, grasslands, wetlands and agricultural lands. These actions will help reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and increase carbon sequestration, while providing a host of biodiversity, climate change adaptation and human well-being co-benefits.Canada is one of many countries demonstrating strong economic performance while decreasing the GHG intensity of their economies. For instance, while GHG emissions have held relatively constant since 2005 in Canada, Gross Domestic Product (GDP) has grown substantially indicating progress on decoupling growth from emissions. In fact, the emissions intensity for the entire economy has declined by 39% since 1990 and by 26% since 2005.While GDP remains an important metric, there is growing recognition of the shortcomings of GDP and other traditional economic indicators as stand-alone measures of the overall well-being of societies. That is why the government is working on a Quality of Life Framework that would put a more holistic and comprehensive evidence base at the centre of government decision-making, both now and over the longer term. (Measuring What Matters: Toward a Quality of Life Strategy for Canada - www.canada.ca/en/department-finance/services/publications/measuring-what-matters-toward-quality-life-strategy-canada.html#Toc61968272)   
Environmental protectionGreen economy
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 30, 2023441-00846441-00846 (Environment)ElizabethMaySaanich—Gulf IslandsGreen PartyBCNovember 16, 2022January 30, 2023September 22, 2022Petition to the Government of CanadaWhereas:
  • Indigenous peoples have rights and title to their traditional territories and have been stewards of these lands since time immemorial;
  • The climate crisis requires action by all levels of government and industry;
  • Old-growth forests provide immeasurable benefits, including carbon sequestration, biodiversity, culture, recreation, education, food and more;
  • Valley-bottom high productivity old-growth ecosystems in British Columbia are endangered;
  • Of the remaining 2.7% of original high productivity old-growth forests in British Columbia, 75% are still slated to be logged;
  • Only 9% of the original 360,000 hectares of valley-bottom high productivity old-growth on Vancouver Island remain today, and only 2.6% of those forests are protected in parks;
  • The last unprotected intact old-growth valley on Southern Vancouver Island, Fairy Creek, is slated for logging, along with the upper Walbran Valle and other remaining pockets of old growth; and
  • Most Canadians support sustainable harvesting of second and third growth forests, but do not support logging old-growth trees or destroying their surrounding ecosystems.
We, the undersigned, Citizens of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to:
  • 1. Work with the provinces and First Nations to immediately halt logging of endangered old-growth ecosystems;
  • 2. Fund the long-term protection of old-growth ecosystems as a priority for Canada's climate action plan and reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples;
  • 3. Support value-added forestry initiatives in partnership with First Nations to ensure Canada's forestry industry is sustainable, and based on the harvesting of second and third growth forests;
  • 4. Ban the export of raw logs and maximize resource use for local jobs; and
  • 5. Ban the use of whole trees for wood pellet biofuel production.
Response by the Minister of Environment and Climate ChangeSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable STEVEN GUILBEAULTEnvironment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) would like to thank the petitioner for their interest in Canadian forests and forest ecosystems, in particular the old growth forests and habitats found in British Columbia (B.C.).With respect to the five calls to the Government of Canada found in the petition, please note the following:1.  Canada is home to ecosystems that are globally significant in their capacity to absorb carbon, mitigate the impacts of climate change, and protect biodiversity. This includes 24% of the world’s wetlands, 25% of temperate rainforest areas and 28% of remaining boreal forests. In this context, the Government of Canada understands that the dual crises of climate change and biodiversity loss are connected and need to be tackled together.That said, conservation and protection of Canada’s forests, including old-growth forests and ecosystems, is a shared responsibility. The vast majority of Canada's forests are located on provincial and territorial Crown lands. In B.C., approximately 96% of forests are on provincial crown land, where, under the Constitution Act, 1867, forest management is the jurisdiction of the provincial government. As such, forest management on those lands is within the jurisdiction of the B.C. government. At the same time, there is an important federal role to conserve migratory bird habitat, protect critical habitat of federally listed species at risk, and mitigate climate change.With this in mind, the Mandate Letters of the Ministers of ECCC and Natural Resources include a commitment to help protect old growth forests, notably in B.C., by reaching a Nature Agreement with B.C., establishing a $50 million B. C. Old Growth Nature Fund, and ensuring First Nations, local communities and workers are partners in shaping the path forward for nature protection. This $50 million investment was made through Budget 2022.The Old Growth Nature Fund will support efforts to halt logging of old-growth forests and is a key component of the Canada-B.C. Nature Agreement, which presents a unique opportunity to collaboratively advance nature conservation, species at risk and climate mitigation objectives in collaboration with provincial and Indigenous partners.To this end, and in light of recent announcements from the Government of B.C. concerning moratoria on old growth forest harvesting, departmental officials have been working with their provincial colleagues, both to negotiate and finalize a Nature Agreement and to explore additional ways to encourage and support the province in its efforts to protect and restore habitat. This includes protecting the habitat of old growth-associated species such as Spotted Owl and Marbled Murrelet.2.  The Government of Canada appreciates that in addition to their habitat functions, forests are key to the health of our climate, influencing rainfall, temperature, and other metrics. Temperate old growth forests, like those in B.C., also function as important carbon reservoirs.Appreciating the significance of forests to biodiversity conservation and climate, the federal government has contributed to protecting nearly 400,000 hectares of forest habitat in B.C. This includes conservation projects under programs such as the Target 1 Challenge, Natural Heritage Conservation Program, Ecological Gifts Program, and others.Adding to these efforts, the Old Growth Nature Fund, referenced above, will deliver on the Ministers’ mandate letters by providing $50 million to the Government of B.C., to be matched by B.C., to permanently protect and conserve old growth forests in the province. The Fund will focus on protecting at-risk high productivity old growth forests that are of prime biodiversity value identified as important for species at risk, migratory birds, climate mitigation and reconciliation with Indigenous peoples. Specifically, federal funding will support planning and collaboration with B.C. and Indigenous communities, and provide incentives for third-party funders, to permanently protect and conserve large areas of at-risk old growth forests in the province.Alongside this work, the federal government has made forests a central part of Canada’s plan to tackle climate change. The Old Growth Nature Fund in particular is expected to contribute directly to the Government of Canada's commitments to achieve Canada’s 2030 greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions reduction goal and net-zero GHG emissions by 2050. The old growth temperate rainforests of B.C. are among the largest natural carbon sinks in the world (on a per hectare basis) and are among the most efficient ecosystems at capturing carbon in Canada.Complementing this effort on a broader scale, the Government of Canada has also announced a series of funding initiatives of significance to forest ecosystems and forestry in Canada:
  • The Natural Climate Solutions Fund (NCSF), a $4 billion initiative over ten years to restore, better manage, and conserve Canada’s natural and managed ecosystems. The NCSF includes three complementary programs:
    • 2 Billion Trees program, led by Natural Resources Canada;
    • NSCF, led by ECCC; and
    • The Agricultural Climate Solutions (ACS) program, led by Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada.
  • The Nature Smart Climate Solutions Fund (NSCSF) involves $631 million over 10 years (2021-2031) to reduce 2-4 megatons of GHG emissions annually. Up to $36.9 million in funding has been allocated to support Indigenous communities to deliver projects that build capacity and advance Indigenous-led efforts on natural climate solutions, with a focus on improved management, conservation, and restoration of wetlands, grasslands and forests that result in reduced and captured GHG emissions.
  • Enhanced Nature Legacy, providing $2.3 billion in new funding over five years that will further contribute to the implementation of conservation measures for Canada’s land and freshwater ecosystems and wildlife. This includes the establishment of new provincial and territorial protected areas, Indigenous Protected and Conserved Areas, and additional habitat restoration. Budget 2022 increased this investment by $780 million over five years for the NSCSF. It also included the announcement of further investments through the Low Carbon Economy Fund, a $2 billion fund that could, amongst other things, incent provinces to leave timber standing (for example, by creating other revenue streams for forests).
  • The recent Emissions Reduction Plan committed another $780 million to nature-based solutions, including the conservation, restoration and enhanced management of grassland, wetland, peatland and forest ecosystems.
The broader significance of Canada’s forests is also recognized in the Pan-Canadian Approach to Transforming Species at Risk Conservation in Canada, where forests are identified as a priority sector. Development of a conservation action plan for species at risk is currently underway in collaboration with forest sector partners and stakeholders to advance the protection and recovery of species at risk and enhance sector sustainability.With respect to support for Indigenous community involvement in eco-system protection and climate action, including in forests and more broadly, it should be noted that under the NSCSF, described above, an Indigenous Partnership (NSCSF-IP) stream was established to provide targeted funding to enable Indigenous peoples to play a meaningful leadership role in natural climate solutions, as part of the Government of Canada’s commitment to Reconciliation. Through the NSCSF-IP, ECCC supports Indigenous organizations and communities to undertake Indigenous-led capacity building activities and on-the-ground projects for ecological restoration, improved land management, and conservation of wetlands, grasslands, agricultural lands and forests that result in reduced GHG emissions, and that maximize co-benefits for biodiversity, climate resiliency, and human well-being.Beyond this, ECCC has also funded approximately 115 First Nations, Inuit and Métis Guardians initiatives since 2017, with investments totaling over $46 million. Indigenous Guardians initiatives support Indigenous rights and responsibilities in protecting and conserving ecosystems - including old-growth forests, developing and maintaining sustainable economies, and continuing the profound connections between the Canadian landscape and Indigenous culture. Indigenous Guardians are Indigenous peoples exercising their cultural responsibilities through on-the-ground stewardship of traditional lands, waters, air, and ice. They act as the “eyes and ears on the ground”.  Indigenous Guardians funding supports on-the-ground activities such as ecological and cultural resource monitoring, restoration, and visitor experience activities, contribution to cultural continuity (e.g., intergenerational knowledge transmission) and implementation of Indigenous conservation practices and Indigenous knowledge. 
Response by the Minister of International Trade, Export Promotion, Small Business and Economic DevelopmentSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Arif ViraniForests provide a wide range of economic, social and environmental benefits for people and communities across Canada. They are a major source of income and employment for 300 communities across the country, directly employing 205,000 workers, including over 11,500 Indigenous workers.With respect to the proposal to ban the export of raw logs, logs are integral to the domestic manufacturing industry for a wide range of forest products including softwood lumber and other products like high value finished veneer panels. Domestic and international trade in logs is important for log harvesters and Canadian trade. The policy and process governing the export of logs harvested in British Columbia contained in Global Affairs Canada’s Notice to Exporters No. 102 form an important part of the Government’s efforts to ensure the right balance between log exports and domestic policy objectives.The Government regularly reviews policies to ensure that Canada’s domestic policy objectives and trade opportunities are maximized and welcomes all ideas and proposals related to its policies, including those associated with the export of raw logs. The Department is committed to continuing to work and collaborate closely with all stakeholders and partners on this issue to achieve the best possible results for Canada.
Response by the Minister of Natural ResourcesSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): THE HONOURABLE JONATHAN WILKINSON, P.C., M.P.Canada’s forests provide a wealth of environmental, economic, social and cultural benefits to Canadians. The forestrysector in Canada is governed by provincial legislation, regulations and policies. Through careful monitoring and planning, Canada’s forest sector manages the long-term health of its forests, both safeguarding these benefits in the face of challenges and finding new opportunities in a changing world.Finding solutions also means working with Indigenous communities and leaders so that forest management and conservation practices are informed by Indigenous knowledge systems. Through the Indigenous Forestry Initiative (IFI), Natural Resources Canada (NRCan) is providing financial support to Indigenous-led projects in the forest sector — creating good jobs and supporting the stewardship of Canada’s forests. Since 2017, the program has supported 134 Indigenous-led, forest-based economic development projects and helped to create more than 787 jobs and 45 new or expanded businesses.British Columbia’s iconic old growth forests have deep-rooted cultural significance to Indigenous communities and are important to all British Columbians. They are also critical habitats for dozens of species at risk and migratory birds and are important natural stores of carbon.The British Columbia Old Growth Nature Fund established by the Departments of Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) and NRCan advances shared objectives regarding urgent protection of vital ecosystems, wildlife habitats and species at risk while also protecting carbon stores in old growth forests. The Old Growth Nature Fund is being established in collaboration with the Province of British Columbia, non-governmental organizations, and Indigenous and local communities.This collaborative work to protect communities and diverse natural habitats, including by advancing Indigenous-led conservation efforts, is also crucial to securing a cleaner, healthier, and greener future for Canadians.The Old Growth Nature Fund further complements the Enhanced Nature Legacy announced in 2021, and the Natural Climate Solutions Fund announced in 2020.Canada boasts the most forest area certified by internationally recognized, third party systems as being managed in a sustainable way, respecting ecological values and Indigenous rights. Three quarters of Canada’s managed public forests are certified to one or more of three sustainable forest management certification systems: the Sustainable Forestry Initiative, the Forest Stewardship Council, and the Canadian Standards Association.As with all forest industries in Canada, the wood pellet industry is governed by provincial legislation, regulations and policies that are the basis for sustainable forest management, and include protections for old-growth forests. Strict monitoring and enforcement measures ensure that Canada’s forests are harvested legally and sustainably.Canadian wood pellets are primarily made from sawmill residues that are by-products of wood product manufacturing. The industry also uses branches and treetops from harvest operations, logs damaged by natural disturbances, or trees that are cut to manage long-term ecological values in the forest. If not used, these additional sources of wood fibre are typically left to decompose into the atmosphere, or may be burned onsite.Supporting markets for all material harvested, as part of a sustainable forest management plan, ensures that no part of the harvested tree is wasted, and delivers economic benefits to Canadians.
Environmental protectionForest policyIndigenous policy
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 18, 2023e-4029e-4029 (Environment)KarenFarleyElizabethMaySaanich—Gulf IslandsGreen PartyBCMay 25, 2022, at 12:10 p.m. (EDT)September 22, 2022, at 12:10 p.m. (EDT)November 14, 2022January 18, 2023September 22, 2022Petition to the <Addressee type="3" affiliationId="" mp-riding-display="1">Government of Canada</Addressee>Whereas:The United Nations names plastic pollution as the second greatest threat to the environment after climate change;The federal government has drafted single-use plastics regulations as a step towards eliminating harmful plastic pollutants;The proposed federal regulations contain loopholes in the definitions which will allow manufacturers to create more durable single-use plastics, including cutlery and plastic bags;The definitions exclude common plastic litter, such as single-use hot and cold beverage containers and lids, and packaging for consumer goods;The proposed regulations allow for the continued manufacturing and export of harmful single-use plastics;These regulatory loopholes will contribute to the creation of more problematic plastic pollution entering the marine and terrestrial environment;Canada needs to create stronger regulations to eliminate plastic pollution;Other jurisdictions, including Chile and the European Union, are leading the way on single-use plastics bans with regulations that Canada could use as an example to build on; andAdvocates in Canada, including Oceana Canada, strongly support strengthening the federal government's proposed regulations.We, the undersigned, citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to: 1. Strengthen regulatory definitions to include more harmful single-use plastic items and close loopholes that currently allow plastic items to be replaced with more durable problematic plastic;2. Remove the exemption that allows banned products to continue to be manufactured and exported;3. Revise the retail sales exception on single-use plastic straws so people needing them for medical purposes can request them;4. Implement a clear and staged action plan to eliminate single-use plastics by 2030; and5. Bring these proposed regulations into force six months after they are published.
Response by the Minister of Environment and Climate ChangeSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable STEVEN GUILBEAULTEnvironment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) shares your concern about single-use plastics. The Government of Canada agrees that plastic pollution is a global challenge that requires immediate action. Plastic waste and pollution burden our economy and threaten the health of our environment including wildlife, rivers, lakes and oceans.The Government of Canada is working with all levels of government, industry, non-government organizations, researchers and Canadians to take action on plastic waste and pollution. To reach our Zero Plastic Waste objective, we need to transition to a circular economy. This requires taking action to eliminate plastic pollution at its source and to keep plastics in the economy and out of the environment. The Government is supporting this transition with a variety of tools, including regulations, standards, as well as support for innovation and technology.The Government developed a management framework for single-use plastics that provides a transparent and evidence-based approach to determining how to manage risks to the environment posed by single-use plastics. To determine if a single-use plastic product should be banned, the framework considers whether the item is prevalent in the environment and whether it poses a threat of harm to wildlife and their habitat. It also considers whether the item is difficult to recycle and if it has readily available alternatives. The Government used this framework to identify the six categories of single-use plastic items targeted by the Single-use Plastics Prohibition Regulations, which were published in the Canada Gazette, Part II in June 2022.As you know, these Regulations prohibit the manufacture, import and sale of single-use plastic checkout bags, cutlery, foodservice ware made from or containing problematic plastics, ring carriers, stir sticks, and straws. Hot and cold beverage cups that meet the single-use plastic foodservice ware definition are captured by the Regulations. Note that single-use plastic checkout bags, cutlery and straws have reusable substitutes also made of plastic. Those reusable versions are not subject to the Regulations. Performance criteria differentiate between single-use and reusable items for these product categories. The Government is aware of the issue of plastic cutlery and straws that may meet the reusability criteria of the Regulations, but are essentially single-use in practice. Analysis is underway to determine how to address this issue.The first prohibitions in the Regulations come into force six months after they were registered. The manufacture and import of checkout bags, cutlery, foodservice ware, stir sticks, and straws will be prohibited starting December 20, 2022.The Government consulted broadly on removing the exemption for export that was included in the proposed Regulations published in December 2021. As a result of feedback, the Government decided to phase-out the exemption for manufacture, import and sale for the purposes of export after 42 months. The prohibition on the manufacture, import and sale for the purposes of export will come into force in December 2025. These timelines allow Canadian businesses to minimize disruption to their operations, while aligning with broader market and regulatory trends globally. It also reflects the Government’s commitments to prevent plastic pollution around the world, including under the Ocean Plastics Charter.To ensure accessibility, the Regulations allow the manufacture, import and sale of single-use plastic flexible straws under certain conditions. Single-use plastic straws are prohibited by the Regulations, including straight straws and flexible straws packaged with beverage containers (i.e., juice boxes and pouches). The prohibition on the manufacture and import of straws will come into force in December 2022. Their sale will be prohibited as of December 2023, while the sale of flexible straws packaged with beverage containers will be prohibited as of June 2024. Single-use plastic flexible straws, not packaged with beverage containers, will be allowed, but their sale will be restricted as of December 2023.The Regulations allow packages of single-use plastic flexible straws to be sold by retailers upon request, in packages of 20 or more. Anybody can request to purchase a package of single-use plastic flexible straws from a retailer. This is because disabilities and medical needs can be visible or invisible. No documentation is required to purchase straws. The Regulations also permit people who require single-use plastic flexible straws to bring them to restaurants and other social settings. Healthcare settings such as hospitals and long-term care facilities will also still be able to provide single-use plastic flexible straws to their patients and residents. Thus, single-use plastic flexible straws will remain available for Canadians who require them for medical or accessibility reasons, whether for use at home, in social settings, or in care institutions.The Government will continue to monitor Canadian litter data and other sources of information to assess the performance of existing management measures and work with partners and stakeholders to identify areas where further action is needed.Canada works with the provinces and territories through the Canadian Council of Ministers of the Environment (CCME) to improve Canada’s record on reducing and recycling waste. Together we developed a Strategy on Zero Plastic Waste, and are implementing two associated Canada-wide Action Plans to prioritize action that will reduce plastic waste. As part of this work, we, along with our provincial and territorial counterparts at the CCME, recently published A Roadmap to Strengthen the Management of Single-Use and Disposable Plastics. This tool will help guide the prioritization and management of single-use and disposable plastic items.In addition to the Regulations banning certain single-use plastic items, the Government is developing other actions. We are developing regulations that will require that certain plastic packaging in Canada contain at least 50 percent recycled content by 2030, that will set labelling rules for plastics claiming to be compostable, and that will prohibit the use of the chasing-arrows symbol unless 80 percent of Canada’s recycling facilities accept and have reliable end markets for these products. Working with provinces and territories, we will implement and enforce an ambitious recycling target of 90 percent for plastic beverage containers. The Government is also developing a federal plastics registry to collect data to help provinces and territories design and improve programs to make plastic producers responsible for their plastic waste.Canada recognizes that plastic pollution is a global issue that requires urgent action. That is why Canada joined the High Ambition Coalition to End Plastic Pollution, and is working with its partners around the world, including through the G7, G20 and various bodies under the United Nations, to advance policy, strengthen science and take action to reduce plastic waste and pollution. Building on the Ocean Plastics Charter, championed by Canada and endorsed by 28 governments and 75 organizations worldwide, the Government of Canada continues to advocate for the transition to a circular plastic economy with complementary actions spanning the life cycle of plastics. This includes our commitment to work with other governments and stakeholders to develop an ambitious legally-binding global agreement to end plastic pollution and advance an agreement that will address the full life cycle of plastics.
Environmental protectionSingle-use plastics
44th Parliament223Government response tabledDecember 13, 2022441-00824441-00824 (Environment)ElizabethMaySaanich—Gulf IslandsGreen PartyBCOctober 31, 2022December 13, 2022September 21, 2022Petition to the Government of CanadaWhereas:
  • Indigenous peoples have rights and title to their traditional territories and have been stewards of these lands since time immemorial;
  • The climate crisis requires action by all levels of government and industry;
  • Old-growth forests provide immeasurable benefits, including carbon sequestration, biodiversity, culture, recreation, education, food and more;
  • Valley-bottom high productivity old-growth ecosystems in British Columbia are endangered;
  • Of the remaining 2.7% of original high productivity old-growth forests in British Columbia, 75% are still slated to be logged;
  • Only 9% of the original 360,000 hectares of valley-bottom high productivity old-growth on Vancouver Island remain today, and only 2.6% of those forests are protected in parks;
  • The last unprotected intact old-growth valley on Southern Vancouver Island, Fairy Creek, is slated for logging, along with the upper Walbran Valle and other remaining pockets of old growth; and
  • Most Canadians support sustainable harvesting of second and third growth forests, but do not support logging old-growth trees or destroying their surrounding ecosystems.
We, the undersigned, Citizens of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to:
  • 1. Work with the provinces and First Nations to immediately halt logging of endangered old-growth ecosystems;
  • 2. Fund the long-term protection of old-growth ecosystems as a priority for Canada's climate action plan and reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples;
  • 3. Support value-added forestry initiatives in partnership with First Nations to ensure Canada's forestry industry is sustainable, and based on the harvesting of second and third growth forests;
  • 4. Ban the export of raw logs and maximize resource use for local jobs; and
  • 5. Ban the use of whole trees for wood pellet biofuel production.
Response by the Minister of Natural ResourcesSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, P.C., M.P.Canada’s forests provide a wealth of environmental, economic, social and cultural benefits to Canadians. Through careful monitoring and planning, Canada’s forest sector manages the long-term health of its forests, both safeguarding these benefits in the face of challenges and finding new opportunities in a changing world.Finding solutions also means working with Indigenous communities and leaders so that forest management and conservation practices are informed by Indigenous knowledge systems. Through the Indigenous Forestry Initiative (IFI), Natural Resources Canada (NRCan) is providing financial support to Indigenous-led projects in the forest sector — creating good jobs and supporting the stewardship of Canada’s forests. Since 2017, the program has supported 128 Indigenous-led, forest-based economic development projects and helped to create more than 787 jobs and 45 new or expanded businesses.In addition to supporting traditional forestry activities, the IFI program supports communities seeking to develop opportunities in non-timber forest products such as food and health products, and forest biomass for renewable energy production. IFI projects have funded businesses that harvest, manufacture and sell products such as: natural health products based on traditional Indigenous pharmacopoeia; wild plant and fruit jellies and syrups; essential oils; sustainably produced firewood, wood, chips, wood pellets and biomass briquettes; and wild mushrooms, herbs and berries. Another priority area for funding from IFI is in forest stewardship and forest-management opportunities. The program has helped to build capacity in the Indigenous forest sector by providing funding for training to build forest sector skills and technical capacity so that Indigenous partners and communities are better positioned to sustainably develop and manage forested areas on their traditional territories.The IFI works directly with more than 100 Indigenous communities across the country. The program promotes active involvement of Indigenous communities in the sustainable development and use of natural resources by working in partnership with, among others, industry and other government organizations. NRCan’s regionally deployed Forestry Liaison Officers engage with communities to build relationships, raise awareness of the program and opportunities in the forest sector, and facilitate the development of projects and partnerships. Many of these Regional Liaison Officers are Indigenous people, have backgrounds in forestry, and provide technical advice on forest and land management practices and forest products manufacturing.British Columbia’s iconic old growth forests have deep-rooted cultural significance to Indigenous communities and are important to all British Columbians. They are also critical habitats for dozens of species at risk and migratory birds and are important natural stores of carbon.The British Columbia Old Growth Nature Fund established by the Departments of Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) and NRCan advances shared objectives regarding  urgent protection of vital ecosystems, wildlife habitats and species at risk while also protecting carbon stores in old growth forests. The Old Growth Nature Fund is being established in collaboration with the Province of British Columbia, non-governmental organizations, and Indigenous and local communities.This collaborative work to protect communities and diverse natural habitats, including by advancing Indigenous-led conservation efforts, is also crucial to securing a cleaner, healthier, and greener future for Canadians.The Old Growth Nature Fund further complements the Enhanced Nature Legacy announced in 2021, and the Natural Climate Solutions Fund announced in 2020.
  • Enhanced Nature Legacy responds to the global biodiversity crisis, threats to Canada’s ecosystem and wildlife and pressures for sustainable recovery and well-being of Canadians, by: protecting 25% of Canada’s lands and freshwater by 2025; strengthening protection and recovery of species at risk and their habitats; advancing reconciliation through Indigenous leadership in conservation and supporting healthy natural infrastructure and increased access to nature.
  • Natural Climate Solutions Fund embraces the power of nature to reduce the effects of and adapt to climate change all while supporting biodiversity. This horizontal initiative includes three separate, but related, programs: NRCan’s 2 Billion Trees program, ECCC’s Nature Smart Climate Solutions Fund, and Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada’s Agricultural Climate Solutions Program.
Canada boasts the most forest area certified by internationally recognized, third party systems as being managed in a sustainable way, respecting ecological values and Indigenous rights. Three quarters of Canada’s managed public forests are certified to one or more of three sustainable forest management certification systems: the Sustainable Forestry Initiative, the Forest Stewardship Council, and the Canadian Standards Association.As with all forest industries in Canada, the wood pellet industry is governed by provincial legislation, regulations and policies that are the basis for sustainable forest management, and include protections for old-growth forests. Strict monitoring and enforcement measures ensure that Canada’s forests are harvested legally and sustainably.Canadian wood pellets are primarily made from sawmill residues that are by-products of wood product manufacturing. The industry also uses branches and treetops from harvest operations, logs damaged by natural disturbances, or trees that are cut to manage long-term ecological values in the forest. If not used, these additional sources of wood fibre are typically left to decompose into the atmosphere, or may be burned onsite.Supporting markets for all material harvested, as part of a sustainable forest management plan, ensures that no part of the harvested tree is wasted, and delivers economic benefits to Canadians.
Response by the Minister of Environment and Climate ChangeSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable STEVEN GUILBEAULTEnvironment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) would like to thank the petitioner for their interest in Canadian forests and forest ecosystems, in particular the old growth forests and habitats found in British Columbia (B.C.).With respect to the five calls to the Government of Canada found in the petition, please note the following:1.  Canada is home to ecosystems that are globally significant in their capacity to absorb carbon, mitigate the impacts of climate change, and protect biodiversity. This includes 24% of the world’s wetlands, 25% of temperate rainforest areas and 28% of remaining boreal forests. In this context, the Government of Canada understands that the dual crises of climate change and biodiversity loss are connected and need to be tackled together.That said, conservation and protection of Canada’s forests, including old-growth forests and ecosystems, is a shared responsibility. The vast majority of Canada's forests are located on provincial and territorial Crown lands. In B.C., approximately 96% of forests are on provincial crown land, where, under the Constitution Act, 1867, forest management is the jurisdiction of the provincial government. As such, forest management on those lands is within the jurisdiction of the B.C. government. At the same time, there is an important federal role to conserve migratory bird habitat, protect critical habitat of federally listed species at risk, and mitigate climate change.With this in mind, the Mandate Letters of the Ministers of ECCC and Natural Resources include a commitment to help protect old growth forests, notably in B.C., by reaching a Nature Agreement with B.C., establishing a $50 million B. C. Old Growth Nature Fund, and ensuring First Nations, local communities and workers are partners in shaping the path forward for nature protection. This $50 million investment was made through Budget 2022.The Old Growth Nature Fund will support efforts to halt logging of old-growth forests and is a key component of the Canada-B.C. Nature Agreement, which presents a unique opportunity to collaboratively advance nature conservation, species at risk and climate mitigation objectives in collaboration with provincial and Indigenous partners.To this end, and in light of recent announcements from the Government of B.C. concerning moratoria on old growth forest harvesting, departmental officials have been working with their provincial colleagues, both to negotiate and finalize a Nature Agreement and to explore additional ways to encourage and support the province in its efforts to protect and restore habitat. This includes protecting the habitat of old growth-associated species such as Spotted Owl and Marbled Murrelet.2.  The Government of Canada appreciates that in addition to their habitat functions, forests are key to the health of our climate, influencing rainfall, temperature, and other metrics. Temperate old growth forests, like those in B.C., also function as important carbon reservoirs.Appreciating the significance of forests to biodiversity conservation and climate, the federal government has contributed to protecting nearly 400,000 hectares of forest habitat in B.C. This includes conservation projects under programs such as the Target 1 Challenge, Natural Heritage Conservation Program, Ecological Gifts Program, and others.Adding to these efforts, the Old Growth Nature Fund, referenced above, will deliver on the Ministers’ mandate letters by providing $50 million to the Government of B.C., to be matched by B.C., to permanently protect and conserve old growth forests in the province. The Fund will focus on protecting at-risk high productivity old growth forests that are of prime biodiversity value identified as important for species at risk, migratory birds, climate mitigation and reconciliation with Indigenous peoples. Specifically, federal funding will support planning and collaboration with B.C. and Indigenous communities, and provide incentives for third-party funders, to permanently protect and conserve large areas of at-risk old growth forests in the province.Alongside this work, the federal government has made forests a central part of Canada’s plan to tackle climate change. The Old Growth Nature Fund in particular is expected to contribute directly to the Government of Canada's commitments to achieve Canada’s 2030 greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions reduction goal and net-zero GHG emissions by 2050. The old growth temperate rainforests of B.C. are among the largest natural carbon sinks in the world (on a per hectare basis) and are among the most efficient ecosystems at capturing carbon in Canada.Complementing this effort on a broader scale, the Government of Canada has also announced a series of funding initiatives of significance to forest ecosystems and forestry in Canada:
  • The Natural Climate Solutions Fund (NCSF), a $4 billion initiative over ten years to restore, better manage, and conserve Canada’s natural and managed ecosystems. The NCSF includes three complementary programs:
    • 2 Billion Trees program, led by Natural Resources Canada;
    • NSCF, led by ECCC; and
    • The Agricultural Climate Solutions (ACS) program, led by Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada.
  • The Nature Smart Climate Solutions Fund (NSCSF) involves $631 million over 10 years (2021-2031) to reduce 2-4 megatons of GHG emissions annually. Up to $36.9 million in funding has been allocated to support Indigenous communities to deliver projects that build capacity and advance Indigenous-led efforts on natural climate solutions, with a focus on improved management, conservation, and restoration of wetlands, grasslands and forests that result in reduced and captured GHG emissions.
  • Enhanced Nature Legacy, providing $2.3 billion in new funding over five years that will further contribute to the implementation of conservation measures for Canada’s land and freshwater ecosystems and wildlife. This includes the establishment of new provincial and territorial protected areas, Indigenous Protected and Conserved Areas, and additional habitat restoration. Budget 2022 increased this investment by $780 million over five years for the NSCSF. It also included the announcement of further investments through the Low Carbon Economy Fund, a $2 billion fund that could, amongst other things, incent provinces to leave timber standing (for example, by creating other revenue streams for forests).
  • The recent Emissions Reduction Plan committed another $780 million to nature-based solutions, including the conservation, restoration and enhanced management of grassland, wetland, peatland and forest ecosystems.
The broader significance of Canada’s forests is also recognized in the Pan-Canadian Approach to Transforming Species at Risk Conservation in Canada, where forests are identified as a priority sector. Development of a conservation action plan for species at risk is currently underway in collaboration with forest sector partners and stakeholders to advance the protection and recovery of species at risk and enhance sector sustainability.With respect to support for Indigenous community involvement in eco-system protection and climate action, including in forests and more broadly, it should be noted that under the NSCSF, described above, an Indigenous Partnership (NSCSF-IP) stream was established to provide targeted funding to enable Indigenous peoples to play a meaningful leadership role in natural climate solutions, as part of the Government of Canada’s commitment to Reconciliation. Through the NSCSF-IP, ECCC supports Indigenous organizations and communities to undertake Indigenous-led capacity building activities and on-the-ground projects for ecological restoration, improved land management, and conservation of wetlands, grasslands, agricultural lands and forests that result in reduced GHG emissions, and that maximize co-benefits for biodiversity, climate resiliency, and human well-being.Beyond this, ECCC has also funded approximately 115 First Nations, Inuit and Métis Guardians initiatives since 2017, with investments totaling over $46 million. Indigenous Guardians initiatives support Indigenous rights and responsibilities in protecting and conserving ecosystems - including old-growth forests, developing and maintaining sustainable economies, and continuing the profound connections between the Canadian landscape and Indigenous culture. Indigenous Guardians are Indigenous peoples exercising their cultural responsibilities through on-the-ground stewardship of traditional lands, waters, air, and ice. They act as the “eyes and ears on the ground”.  Indigenous Guardians funding supports on-the-ground activities such as ecological and cultural resource monitoring, restoration, and visitor experience activities, contribution to cultural continuity (e.g., intergenerational knowledge transmission) and implementation of Indigenous conservation practices and Indigenous knowledge.
Response by the Minister of International Trade, Export Promotion, Small Business and Economic DevelopmentSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Arif ViraniForests provide a wide range of economic, social and environmental benefits for people and communities across Canada. They are a major source of income and employment for 300 communities across the country, directly employing 205,000 workers, including over 11,500 Indigenous workers.With respect to the proposal to ban the export of raw logs, logs are integral to the domestic manufacturing industry for a wide range of forest products including softwood lumber and other products like high value finished veneer panels. Domestic and international trade in logs is important for log harvesters and Canadian trade. The policy and process governing the export of logs harvested in British Columbia contained in Global Affairs Canada’s Notice to Exporters No. 102 form an important part of the Government’s efforts to ensure the right balance between log exports and domestic policy objectives.The Government regularly reviews policies to ensure that Canada’s domestic policy objectives and trade opportunities are maximized and welcomes all ideas and proposals related to its policies, including those associated with the export of raw logs. The Department is committed to continuing to work and collaborate closely with all stakeholders and partners on this issue to achieve the best possible results for Canada.
Environmental protectionForest policyIndigenous policy
44th Parliament223Government response tabledDecember 9, 2022441-00807441-00807 (Environment)ElizabethMaySaanich—Gulf IslandsGreen PartyBCOctober 26, 2022December 9, 2022September 22, 2022Petition to the Government of CanadaWhereas:
  • Indigenous peoples have rights and title to their traditional territories and have been stewards of these lands since time immemorial;
  • The climate crisis requires action by all levels of government and industry;
  • Old-growth forests provide immeasurable benefits, including carbon sequestration, biodiversity, culture, recreation, education, food and more;
  • Valley-bottom high productivity old-growth ecosystems in British Columbia are endangered;
  • Of the remaining 2.7% of original high productivity old-growth forests in British Columbia, 75% are still slated to be logged;
  • Only 9% of the original 360,000 hectares of valley-bottom high productivity old-growth on Vancouver Island remain today, and only 2.6% of those forests are protected in parks;
  • The last unprotected intact old-growth valley on Southern Vancouver Island, Fairy Creek, is slated for logging, along with the upper Walbran Valle and other remaining pockets of old growth; and
  • Most Canadians support sustainable harvesting of second and third growth forests, but do not support logging old-growth trees or destroying their surrounding ecosystems.
We, the undersigned, Citizens of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to:
  • 1. Work with the provinces and First Nations to immediately halt logging of endangered old-growth ecosystems;
  • 2. Fund the long-term protection of old-growth ecosystems as a priority for Canada's climate action plan and reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples;
  • 3. Support value-added forestry initiatives in partnership with First Nations to ensure Canada's forestry industry is sustainable, and based on the harvesting of second and third growth forests;
  • 4. Ban the export of raw logs and maximize resource use for local jobs; and
  • 5. Ban the use of whole trees for wood pellet biofuel production.
Response by the Minister of International Trade, Export Promotion, Small Business and Economic DevelopmentSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Arif ViraniForests provide a wide range of economic, social and environmental benefits for people and communities across Canada. They are a major source of income and employment for 300 communities across the country, directly employing 205,000 workers, including over 11,500 Indigenous workers.With respect to the proposal to ban the export of raw logs, logs are integral to the domestic manufacturing industry for a wide range of forest products including softwood lumber and other products like high value finished veneer panels. Domestic and international trade in logs is important for log harvesters and Canadian trade. The policy and process governing the export of logs harvested in British Columbia contained in Global Affairs Canada’s Notice to Exporters No. 102 form an important part of the Government’s efforts to ensure the right balance between log exports and domestic policy objectives.The Government regularly reviews policies to ensure that Canada’s domestic policy objectives and trade opportunities are maximized and welcomes all ideas and proposals related to its policies, including those associated with the export of raw logs. The Department is committed to continuing to work and collaborate closely with all stakeholders and partners on this issue to achieve the best possible results for Canada.
Response by the Minister of Environment and Climate ChangeSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable STEVEN GUILBEAULTEnvironment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) would like to thank the petitioner for their interest in Canadian forests and forest ecosystems, in particular the old growth forests and habitats found in British Columbia (B.C.).With respect to the five calls to the Government of Canada found in the petition, please note the following:1. Canada is home to ecosystems that are globally significant in their capacity to absorb carbon, mitigate the impacts of climate change, and protect biodiversity. This includes 24% of the world’s wetlands, 25% of temperate rainforest areas and 28% of remaining boreal forests. In this context, the Government of Canada understands that the dual crises of climate change and biodiversity loss are connected and need to be tackled together. That said, conservation and protection of Canada’s forests, including old-growth forests and ecosystems, is a shared responsibility. The vast majority of Canada's forests are located on provincial and territorial Crown lands. In B.C., approximately 96% of forests are on provincial crown land, where, under the Constitution Act, 1867, forest management is the jurisdiction of the provincial government. As such, forest management on those lands is within the jurisdiction of the B.C. government. At the same time, there is an important federal role to conserve migratory bird habitat, protect critical habitat of federally listed species at risk, and mitigate climate change.With this in mind, the Mandate Letters of the Ministers of ECCC and Natural Resources include a commitment to help protect old growth forests, notably in B.C., by reaching a Nature Agreement with B.C., establishing a $50 million B. C. Old Growth Nature Fund, and ensuring First Nations, local communities and workers are partners in shaping the path forward for nature protection. This $50 million investment was made through Budget 2022.The Old Growth Nature Fund will support efforts to halt logging of old-growth forests and is a key component of the Canada-B.C. Nature Agreement, which presents a unique opportunity to collaboratively advance nature conservation, species at risk and climate mitigation objectives in collaboration with provincial and Indigenous partners.To this end, and in light of recent announcements from the Government of B.C. concerning moratoria on old growth forest harvesting, departmental officials have been working with their provincial colleagues, both to negotiate and finalize a Nature Agreement and to explore additional ways to encourage and support the province in its efforts to protect and restore habitat. This includes protecting the habitat of old growth-associated species such as Spotted Owl and Marbled Murrelet.2. The Government of Canada appreciates that in addition to their habitat functions, forests are key to the health of our climate, influencing rainfall, temperature, and other metrics. Temperate old growth forests, like those in B.C., also function as important carbon reservoirs.Appreciating the significance of forests to biodiversity conservation and climate, the federal government has contributed to protecting nearly 400,000 hectares of forest habitat in B.C. This includes conservation projects under programs such as the Target 1 Challenge, Natural Heritage Conservation Program, Ecological Gifts Program, and others.Adding to these efforts, the Old Growth Nature Fund, referenced above, will deliver on the Ministers’ mandate letters by providing $50 million to the Government of B.C., to be matched by B.C., to permanently protect and conserve old growth forests in the province. The Fund will focus on protecting at-risk high productivity old growth forests that are of prime biodiversity value identified as important for species at risk, migratory birds, climate mitigation and reconciliation with Indigenous peoples. Specifically, federal funding will support planning and collaboration with B.C. and Indigenous communities, and provide incentives for third-party funders, to permanently protect and conserve large areas of at-risk old growth forests in the province.Alongside this work, the federal government has made forests a central part of Canada’s plan to tackle climate change. The Old Growth Nature Fund in particular is expected to contribute directly to the Government of Canada's commitments to achieve Canada’s 2030 greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions reduction goal and net-zero GHG emissions by 2050. The old growth temperate rainforests of B.C. are among the largest natural carbon sinks in the world (on a per hectare basis) and are among the most efficient ecosystems at capturing carbon in Canada.Complementing this effort on a broader scale, the Government of Canada has also announced a series of funding initiatives of significance to forest ecosystems and forestry in Canada:
  • The Natural Climate Solutions Fund (NCSF), a $4 billion initiative over ten years to restore, better manage, and conserve Canada’s natural and managed ecosystems. The NCSF includes three complementary programs:  
    • 2 Billion Trees program, led by Natural Resources Canada;
    • NSCF, led by ECCC; and
    • The Agricultural Climate Solutions (ACS) program, led by Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada.
  • The Nature Smart Climate Solutions Fund (NSCSF) involves $631 million over 10 years (2021-2031) to reduce 2-4 megatons of GHG emissions annually. Up to $36.9 million in funding has been allocated to support Indigenous communities to deliver projects that build capacity and advance Indigenous-led efforts on natural climate solutions, with a focus on improved management, conservation, and restoration of wetlands, grasslands and forests that result in reduced and captured GHG emissions.
  • Enhanced Nature Legacy, providing $2.3 billion in new funding over five years that will further contribute to the implementation of conservation measures for Canada’s land and freshwater ecosystems and wildlife. This includes the establishment of new provincial and territorial protected areas, Indigenous Protected and Conserved Areas, and additional habitat restoration. Budget 2022 increased this investment by $780 million over five years for the NSCSF. It also included the announcement of further investments through the Low Carbon Economy Fund, a $2 billion fund that could, amongst other things, incent provinces to leave timber standing (for example, by creating other revenue streams for forests).
  • The recent Emissions Reduction Plan committed another $780 million to nature-based solutions, including the conservation, restoration and enhanced management of grassland, wetland, peatland and forest ecosystems.
The broader significance of Canada’s forests is also recognized in the Pan-Canadian Approach to Transforming Species at Risk Conservation in Canada, where forests are identified as a priority sector. Development of a conservation action plan for species at risk is currently underway in collaboration with forest sector partners and stakeholders to advance the protection and recovery of species at risk and enhance sector sustainability.With respect to support for Indigenous community involvement in eco-system protection and climate action, including in forests and more broadly, it should be noted that under the NSCSF, described above, an Indigenous Partnership (NSCSF-IP) stream was established to provide targeted funding to enable Indigenous peoples to play a meaningful leadership role in natural climate solutions, as part of the Government of Canada’s commitment to Reconciliation. Through the NSCSF-IP, ECCC supports Indigenous organizations and communities to undertake Indigenous-led capacity building activities and on-the-ground projects for ecological restoration, improved land management, and conservation of wetlands, grasslands, agricultural lands and forests that result in reduced GHG emissions, and that maximize co-benefits for biodiversity, climate resiliency, and human well-being.Beyond this, ECCC has also funded approximately 115 First Nations, Inuit and Métis Guardians initiatives since 2017, with investments totaling over $46 million. Indigenous Guardians initiatives support Indigenous rights and responsibilities in protecting and conserving ecosystems - including old-growth forests, developing and maintaining sustainable economies, and continuing the profound connections between the Canadian landscape and Indigenous culture. Indigenous Guardians are Indigenous peoples exercising their cultural responsibilities through on-the-ground stewardship of traditional lands, waters, air, and ice. They act as the “eyes and ears on the ground”.  Indigenous Guardians funding supports on-the-ground activities such as ecological and cultural resource monitoring, restoration, and visitor experience activities, contribution to cultural continuity (e.g., intergenerational knowledge transmission) and implementation of Indigenous conservation practices and Indigenous knowledge.        
Response by the Minister of Natural ResourcesSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, P.C., M.P.Canada’s forests provide a wealth of environmental, economic, social and cultural benefits to Canadians. Through careful monitoring and planning, Canada’s forest sector manages the long-term health of its forests, both safeguarding these benefits in the face of challenges and finding new opportunities in a changing world.Finding solutions also means working with Indigenous communities and leaders so that forest management and conservation practices are informed by Indigenous knowledge systems. Through the Indigenous Forestry Initiative (IFI), Natural Resources Canada (NRCan) is providing financial support to Indigenous-led projects in the forest sector — creating good jobs and supporting the stewardship of Canada’s forests. Since 2017, the program has supported 128 Indigenous-led, forest-based economic development projects and helped to create more than 787 jobs and 45 new or expanded businesses.In addition to supporting traditional forestry activities, the IFI program supports communities seeking to develop opportunities in non-timber forest products such as food and health products, and forest biomass for renewable energy production. IFI projects have funded businesses that harvest, manufacture and sell products such as: natural health products based on traditional Indigenous pharmacopoeia; wild plant and fruit jellies and syrups; essential oils; sustainably produced firewood, wood, chips, wood pellets and biomass briquettes; and wild mushrooms, herbs and berries. Another priority area for funding from IFI is in forest stewardship and forest-management opportunities. The program has helped to build capacity in the Indigenous forest sector by providing funding for training to build forest sector skills and technical capacity so that Indigenous partners and communities are better positioned to sustainably develop and manage forested areas on their traditional territories.The IFI works directly with more than 100 Indigenous communities across the country. The program promotes active involvement of Indigenous communities in the sustainable development and use of natural resources by working in partnership with, among others, industry and other government organizations. NRCan’s regionally deployed Forestry Liaison Officers engage with communities to build relationships, raise awareness of the program and opportunities in the forest sector, and facilitate the development of projects and partnerships. Many of these Regional Liaison Officers are Indigenous people, have backgrounds in forestry, and provide technical advice on forest and land management practices and forest products manufacturing.British Columbia’s iconic old growth forests have deep-rooted cultural significance to Indigenous communities and are important to all British Columbians. They are also critical habitats for dozens of species at risk and migratory birds and are important natural stores of carbon.The British Columbia Old Growth Nature Fund established by the Departments of Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) and NRCan advances shared objectives regarding  urgent protection of vital ecosystems, wildlife habitats and species at risk while also protecting carbon stores in old growth forests. The Old Growth Nature Fund is being established in collaboration with the Province of British Columbia, non-governmental organizations, and Indigenous and local communities.This collaborative work to protect communities and diverse natural habitats, including by advancing Indigenous-led conservation efforts, is also crucial to securing a cleaner, healthier, and greener future for Canadians.The Old Growth Nature Fund further complements the Enhanced Nature Legacy announced in 2021, and the Natural Climate Solutions Fund announced in 2020.
  • Enhanced Nature Legacy responds to the global biodiversity crisis, threats to Canada’s ecosystem and wildlife and pressures for sustainable recovery and well-being of Canadians, by: protecting 25% of Canada’s lands and freshwater by 2025; strengthening protection and recovery of species at risk and their habitats; advancing reconciliation through Indigenous leadership in conservation and supporting healthy natural infrastructure and increased access to nature.
  • Natural Climate Solutions Fund embraces the power of nature to reduce the effects of and adapt to climate change all while supporting biodiversity. This horizontal initiative includes three separate, but related, programs: NRCan’s 2 Billion Trees program, ECCC’s Nature Smart Climate Solutions Fund, and Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada’s Agricultural Climate Solutions Program.
Canada boasts the most forest area certified by internationally recognized, third party systems as being managed in a sustainable way, respecting ecological values and Indigenous rights. Three quarters of Canada’s managed public forests are certified to one or more of three sustainable forest management certification systems: the Sustainable Forestry Initiative, the Forest Stewardship Council, and the Canadian Standards Association.As with all forest industries in Canada, the wood pellet industry is governed by provincial legislation, regulations and policies that are the basis for sustainable forest management, and include protections for old-growth forests. Strict monitoring and enforcement measures ensure that Canada’s forests are harvested legally and sustainably.Canadian wood pellets are primarily made from sawmill residues that are by-products of wood product manufacturing. The industry also uses branches and treetops from harvest operations, logs damaged by natural disturbances, or trees that are cut to manage long-term ecological values in the forest. If not used, these additional sources of wood fibre are typically left to decompose into the atmosphere, or may be burned onsite.Supporting markets for all material harvested, as part of a sustainable forest management plan, ensures that no part of the harvested tree is wasted, and delivers economic benefits to Canadians.
Environmental protectionForest policyIndigenous policy
44th Parliament223Government response tabledDecember 8, 2022441-00799441-00799 (Environment)ElizabethMaySaanich—Gulf IslandsGreen PartyBCOctober 25, 2022December 8, 2022October 5, 2022Petition to the Government of CanadaWhereas:
  • Plastic pollution is the second greatest threat to the environment after climate change;
  • The Federal Government has drafted Single-Use Plastics Regulations as a step towards eliminating harmful plastic pollutants;
  • The proposed federal regulations contain loopholes in the definitions which will allow manufacturers to create more durable single-use plastics including cutlery and plastic bags;
  • The definitions exclude common plastic litter such as single-use hot and cold beverage containers and lids and packaging for consumer goods;
  • The proposed regulations allow for the continued manufacturing and export of harmful singleuse plastics;
  • These regulatory loopholes will contribute to the creation of more problematic plastic pollution entering the marine and terrestrial environment;
  • Canada needs to create stronger regulations to eliminate plastic pollution; and
  • Other jurisdictions including Chile and the European Union are leading the way on Single-Use Plastics Bans with regulations that Canada could use as an example to build on.
We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to:1. Strengthen regulatory definitions to include more harmful Single-Use Plastic items and close loopholes that currently allow plastic items to be replaced with more durable problematic plastic; 2. Remove the exemption that allows banned products to continue to be manufactured and exported;3. Revise the retail sales exception on Single-Use Plastic straws so people needing them for medical purposes can request them;4. Implement a clear and staged action plan to eliminate single-use plastics by 2030; and5. Bring these proposed regulations into force six months after they are published.
Response by the Minister of Environment and Climate ChangeSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable STEVEN GUILBEAULTEnvironment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) shares your concern about single-use plastics. The Government of Canada agrees that plastic pollution is a global challenge that requires immediate action. Plastic waste and pollution burden our economy and threaten the health of our environment including wildlife, rivers, lakes and oceans.The Government of Canada is working with all levels of government, industry, non-government organizations, researchers and Canadians to take action on plastic waste and pollution. To reach our Zero Plastic Waste objective, we need to transition to a circular economy. This requires taking action to eliminate plastic pollution at its source and to keep plastics in the economy and out of the environment. The Government is supporting this transition with a variety of tools, including regulations, standards, as well as support for innovation and technology.The Government developed a management framework for single-use plastics that provides a transparent and evidence-based approach to determining how to manage risks to the environment posed by single-use plastics. To determine if a single-use plastic product should be banned, the framework considers whether the item is prevalent in the environment and whether it poses a threat of harm to wildlife and their habitat. It also considers whether the item is difficult to recycle and if it has readily available alternatives. The Government used this framework to identify the six categories of single-use plastic items targeted by the Single-use Plastics Prohibition Regulations, which were published in the Canada Gazette, Part II in June 2022.As you know, these Regulations prohibit the manufacture, import and sale of single-use plastic checkout bags, cutlery, foodservice ware made from or containing problematic plastics, ring carriers, stir sticks, and straws. Hot and cold beverage cups that meet the single-use plastic foodservice ware definition are captured by the Regulations. Note that single-use plastic checkout bags, cutlery and straws have reusable substitutes also made of plastic. Those reusable versions are not subject to the Regulations. Performance criteria differentiate between single-use and reusable items for these product categories. The Government is aware of the issue of plastic cutlery and straws that may meet the reusability criteria of the Regulations, but are essentially single-use in practice. Analysis is underway to determine how to address this issue.The first prohibitions in the Regulations come into force six months after they were registered. The manufacture and import of checkout bags, cutlery, foodservice ware, stir sticks, and straws will be prohibited starting December 20, 2022.The Government consulted broadly on removing the exemption for export that was included in the proposed Regulations published in December 2021. As a result of feedback, the Government decided to phase-out the exemption for manufacture, import and sale for the purposes of export after 42 months. The prohibition on the manufacture, import and sale for the purposes of export will come into force in December 2025. These timelines allow Canadian businesses to minimize disruption to their operations, while aligning with broader market and regulatory trends globally. It also reflects the Government’s commitments to prevent plastic pollution around the world, including under the Ocean Plastics Charter.To ensure accessibility, the Regulations allow the manufacture, import and sale of single-use plastic flexible straws under certain conditions. Single-use plastic straws are prohibited by the Regulations, including straight straws and flexible straws packaged with beverage containers (i.e., juice boxes and pouches). The prohibition on the manufacture and import of straws will come into force in December 2022. Their sale will be prohibited as of December 2023, while the sale of flexible straws packaged with beverage containers will be prohibited as of June 2024. Single-use plastic flexible straws, not packaged with beverage containers, will be allowed, but their sale will be restricted as of December 2023.The Regulations allow packages of single-use plastic flexible straws to be sold by retailers upon request, in packages of 20 or more. Anybody can request to purchase a package of single-use plastic flexible straws from a retailer. This is because disabilities and medical needs can be visible or invisible. No documentation is required to purchase straws. The Regulations also permit people who require single-use plastic flexible straws to bring them to restaurants and other social settings. Healthcare settings such as hospitals and long-term care facilities will also still be able to provide single-use plastic flexible straws to their patients and residents. Thus, single-use plastic flexible straws will remain available for Canadians who require them for medical or accessibility reasons, whether for use at home, in social settings, or in care institutions.The Government will continue to monitor Canadian litter data and other sources of information to assess the performance of existing management measures and work with partners and stakeholders to identify areas where further action is needed.Canada works with the provinces and territories through the Canadian Council of Ministers of the Environment (CCME) to improve Canada’s record on reducing and recycling waste. Together we developed a Strategy on Zero Plastic Waste, and are implementing two associated Canada-wide Action Plans to prioritize action that will reduce plastic waste. As part of this work, we, along with our provincial and territorial counterparts at the CCME, recently published A Roadmap to Strengthen the Management of Single-Use and Disposable Plastics. This tool will help guide the prioritization and management of single-use and disposable plastic items.In addition to the Regulations banning certain single-use plastic items, the Government is developing other actions. We are developing regulations that will require that certain plastic packaging in Canada contain at least 50 per cent recycled content by 2030, that will set labelling rules for plastics claiming to be compostable, and that will prohibit the use of the chasing-arrows symbol unless 80 per cent of Canada’s recycling facilities accept and have reliable end markets for these products. Working with provinces and territories, we will implement and enforce an ambitious recycling target of 90 percent for plastic beverage containers. The Government is also developing a federal plastics registry to collect data to help provinces and territories design and improve programs to make plastic producers responsible for their plastic waste.Canada recognizes that plastic pollution is a global issue that requires urgent action. That is why Canada joined the High Ambition Coalition to End Plastic Pollution, and is working with its partners around the world, including through the G7, G20 and various bodies under the United Nations, to advance policy, strengthen science and take action to reduce plastic waste and pollution. Building on the Ocean Plastics Charter, championed by Canada and endorsed by 28 governments and 75 organizations worldwide, the Government of Canada continues to advocate for the transition to a circular plastic economy with complementary actions spanning the life cycle of plastics. This includes our commitment to work with other governments and stakeholders to develop an ambitious legally-binding global agreement to end plastic pollution and advance an agreement that will address the full life cycle of plastics.
Environmental protectionSingle-use plastics
44th Parliament223Government response tabledDecember 5, 2022441-00775441-00775 (Environment)RichardCanningsSouth Okanagan—West KootenayNDPBCOctober 21, 2022December 5, 2022April 5, 2022PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONSWe, the undersigned Canadians, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following: Whereas:
  • the impacts of climate change are accelerating in Canada and around the world;
  • Canada has endorsed the Paris Agreement to limit global temperature rise to well below 2 °C in order to avoid the most disastrous effects of climate change, yet greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions have failed to decline in Canada;
  • Canada's current GHG reduction targets are not consistent with doing our fair share to meet the global goals agreed upon in Paris to mitigate climate change;
  • our fossil fuel extraction industries are significant contributors to Canada's GHG emissions;
  • subsidizing fossil fuel production, export and expansion, including new pipelines, are not compatible with the stated goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions; and
  • the government's continued support of the fossil fuel industry, in spite of scientific evidence of the cumulative damage of emissions, puts our future in danger.
THEREFORE, your petitioners call upon the House of Commons to take urgent cooperative action to fulfill Canada's obligations under the Paris Agreement, through:
  • a just transition off of fossil fuel that leaves no-one behind;
  • eliminating federal fossil fuel subsidies; and
  • halting the expansion of fossil fuel production in Canada.
Response by the Minister of Natural ResourcesSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, P.C., M.P.The Government of Canada acknowledges the importance of, and the need for, a global clean energy transition. A more secure and prosperous future depends on a sustainable energy sector – one that provides affordable, reliable, and clean energy to Canadian families, businesses, and industries while exporting products and technologies around the world.  The Government also recognize that this transition is of paramount importance for individuals, families, and businesses in every part of our country. A real and effective energy transition must ensure a stronger economy, a cleaner environment and good, sustainable jobs for all Canadians.This is why the Government of Canada is taking a whole-of-government approach to seize the opportunities of the energy transition – by decarbonizing Canada’s energy sector and making thoughtful and historic investments in critical sectors such as clean technology and renewable energy. Canada’s 2030 Emissions Reduction Plan, released on March 29, 2022, lays out an ambitious and achievable roadmap for sector-by-sector emission reductions to meet Canada’s targets for the end of this decade and put Canada on the path to net-zero by 2050.As part of this effort, Canada joined other countries at COP26 and committed to end new direct public support for the international unabated fossil fuel energy sector by the end of 2022. In addition, Canada committed to phase out inefficient fossil fuel subsidies, and accelerated timelines to do so by 2023. To date, Canada has phased out or rationalized nine tax preferences supporting the fossil fuel sector and has committed to take part in a peer review of inefficient fossil fuel subsidies under the G20 process.The Government also demonstrated its support for the Canadian oil and gas sector’s net-zero emissions ambitions by announcing that it will cap and cut emissions from the sector in line with Canada’s climate targets. This commitment was reiterated in Canada’s 2030 Emissions Reduction Plan and reaffirmed at COP27. As a result, companies are actively investing in the development and deployment of emissions-reduction technologies, such as hydrogen and electrification. These efforts will help lead to a cleaner energy future.At COP27, Canada also joined the United States (U.S.) in a shared commitment to reduce emissions from the oil and gas sector. The U.S.-led Joint Declaration from Energy Importers and Exporters on Reducing Greenhouse Gas Emissions from Fossil Fuels, focuses on solutions to lower methane emissions across the fossil energy value chain.At the same time, the Government of Canada is committed to moving forward with comprehensive action – including legislation – to support Canadian workers and communities in the transition to a low-carbon economy. Public consultations to inform the development of just transition legislation were launched in July 2021 and have included 17 roundtable sessions with a range of stakeholders, including workers and labour organizations, industry, academia, non-governmental organizations, youth, and experts in skills and training as well as diversity and inclusion. The Government is also in discussions with the provinces and territories, and with Indigenous partners, to understand their priorities and perspectives as it seeks to introduce federal legislation early in 2023.In addition, Natural Resources Canada is supporting job growth through ambitious projects and programs in energy, forestry and mining, in every region of Canada. This includes working with Employment and Social Development Canada to advance growth opportunities in the natural resource sectors, as well as ways to retrain workers in high-emissions industries to address labour market shortages in emerging areas.The 2022 federal budget announced actions that will deliver approximately 500,000 training and job opportunities for Canadians, enabling them to take advantage of new opportunities, including in clean energy sectors. These investments include the $960 million Sectoral Workforce Solutions Program that will help both workers and employers by supporting solutions to address current and emerging workforce needs.Building on those job-creation efforts, the Government’s Fall Economic Statement on November 3, 2022, included the launch of a Sustainable Jobs Secretariat, which is a new sustainable jobs stream under the Union Training and Innovation Program, and the creation of a new Sustainable Jobs Training Centre, which will help workers in key sectors and occupations improve their skills or gain new ones for the net-zero economy.The Fall Economic Statement also proposes a number of important new initiatives to strengthen Canada’s economic competitiveness and attract new investments in clean growth. These include the Investment Tax Credit for Clean Technologies, which would provide a refundable tax credit equal to 30 per cent of the capital cost of investments in clean energy technologies for claimants that meet certain labour conditions (20 per cent rate for those who do not), and the formal unveiling of the Canada Growth Fund, which seeks to attract billions of dollars in private capital to reduce Canada’s emissions, grow the economy and create good jobs.Amid this concerted action, the government is also launching Regional Energy and Resource Tables to accelerate Canada’s economic growth opportunities by taking into account each region’s unique advantages and ability to meet the demands of new and emerging markets. These regional processes are being undertaken in partnership with provincial and territorial governments, and through engagement with Indigenous partners, experts, labour organizations and other stakeholders. The Regional Tables will form the basis for comprehensive and transformative place-based economic strategies for every region of Canada to realize a comparative advantage in a net-zero economy.Canada has what it takes to thrive in a low-carbon world. While transforming Canada’s energy systems will take time, the Government remains committed to delivering bold action to decarbonize its energy and natural resources sectors and build a cleaner, more prosperous economy that works for everyone.
Response by the Minister of Environment and Climate ChangeSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable STEVEN GUILBEAULTIn 2021, the Government of Canada committed to achieving an enhanced 2030 emissions reduction target of 40-45 per cent below 2005 levels under the Paris Agreement and adopted legislation to enshrine this Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC), as well as the commitment to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050 in law. The Canadian Net-Zero Emissions Accountability Act provides a durable framework of accountability and transparency to deliver on this commitment. The Act requires the Minister of Environment and Climate Change to set subsequent targets for 2035, 2040, and 2045, at least 10 years in advance. The Act also holds the federal government accountable as it charts Canada’s path to achieve net-zero emissions by establishing a transparent process to plan, assess, and adjust the federal government’s efforts to achieve our national targets, based on the best scientific information available.As an early deliverable under the Canadian Net-Zero Emissions Accountability Act, Canada published the first Emissions Reduction Plan (ERP) in 2022. The plan lays out the next steps to reaching Canada’s 2030 emissions reduction target as a concrete milestone that improves transparency and accountability on the way to net-zero. The 2030 ERP includes a suite of new mitigation measures and strategies, $9.1 billion in new investments, and builds on the foundation set by Canada’s existing climate actions. The plan also reflects input from thousands of Canadians, businesses, and communities, as well as submissions from Indigenous partners, provinces, territories and the Net-Zero Advisory Body.Achieving further emissions reductions, in line with Canada’s 2030 and 2050 commitments, will require significant and ongoing effort. The Government of Canada is optimistic that, together, Canadians can achieve real and lasting emission reductions, while sharing and exporting our climate solutions to the world and supporting the workers and communities affected by the global transition towards a low-carbon future.Looking forward, the transition to a cleaner future will bring new, dynamic opportunities across our labour force. To put workers across Canada at the forefront of building a net-zero emissions economy, the Government of Canada is committed to help Canadians have the skills they need to succeed and to enable the economy to have the workers it needs to thrive. Building on Budget 2021 investments in skills development, including through the Sectoral Workforce Solutions Program, Skills for Success, and the Apprenticeship Service, the Government is proposing to invest $250 million to help ensure Canadian workers can thrive in a changing global economy through the 2022 Fall Economic Statement.In 2009, G20 leaders committed to “rationalize and phase out over the medium term inefficient fossil fuel subsidies while providing targeted support for the poorest”. At the North American Leaders’ Summit on June 29, 2016, Canada, the United States and Mexico publicly committed to phase out inefficient fossil fuel subsidies by 2025. Canada committed to accelerate the timing of this commitment to 2023.Environment and Climate Change Canada and Finance Canada are working together to identify and assess relevant measures in order to fulfill Canada’s G20 commitment. The Government of Canada has made important progress and nine tax measures providing preferential tax treatment to the fossil fuel sector have been, or are in the process of being, rationalized or phased out.In June 2018, the Government of Canada announced that it would undertake a peer review through the G20 process. The peer review process will increase transparency on Canada’s actions to fulfil the G20 commitment and further reaffirm our commitment to climate action.  Canada is developing a report listing federal fossil fuel subsidies including a description of the subsidies, annual costs and analysis of the subsidies. This report will be submitted as part of Canada’s peer review, and will be published once the peer review is finalized.
Environmental protectionFossil fuelsParis Agreement under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change
44th Parliament223Government response tabledNovember 21, 2022e-3867e-3867 (Environment)ErikSchomannAdamChambersSimcoe NorthConservativeONMarch 2, 2022, at 12:37 p.m. (EDT)June 30, 2022, at 12:37 p.m. (EDT)October 6, 2022November 21, 2022July 6, 2022Petition to the <Addressee type="1" affiliationId="" mp-riding-display="1">House of Commons</Addressee>Whereas:Ancient deposits under the Simcoe Uplands in Ontario’s Tiny, Springwater, Oro-Medonte and Tay townships contain pristine groundwater;First Nations have long used this water in what is now the territory of Beausoleil First Nation of the Ogemawahj Tribal Council and Williams Treaties First Nations;This water is the gold standard for water worldwide, a national and global treasure;A gravel pit in Concession 1 of Tiny Township in the Simcoe Uplands is licensed to take 600,000 tonnes of aggregate annually and 6.6 million litres of water daily for 210 days and wants to expand;Two adjacent pits have licences to take gravel and have applied for 10-year permits to take 1.6 million litres of water daily for washing gravel for 180 days yearly;Ontario legislation applies minimum water quality standards;Federal intervention is urgently needed to protect this exceptional water;Removing vegetation, topsoil, sand and aggregate threatens this natural filtration system;Leading Canadian experts propose a five-year study into how this purity is created and maintained; andResearch could help identify exceptional water worldwide and isolate natural features useful in purification systems.We, the undersigned, residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to work under, but not limit itself to, the Canada Water Act to protect the pristine waters of the Simcoe Uplands in Ontario so that research may proceed, and these waters be preserved forever.
Response by the Minister of Environment and Climate ChangeSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable STEVEN GUILBEAULTA clean and safe freshwater supply is essential to the wellbeing of Canadians, the health and sustainability of the environment, and to the economy. Freshwater sustains life on earth – it supplies drinking water, grows food, and supports ecosystems. It is also sacred to many Indigenous peoples, a source of life that plays a central role in Indigenous cultures, ceremonial practices, governance, welfare, and societies. The Government of Canada is committed to safeguarding our country’s freshwater resources, including groundwater resources, for current and future generations. Freshwater management in Canada is a responsibility shared by federal, provincial and territorial governments, as well as many other partners.The federal government derives its jurisdictional responsibilities for transboundary and boundary waters from Canada’s Constitution. Under the Constitution Act (1867), while the provinces are "owners" of the water resources and have wide responsibilities in their day-to-day management, the federal government has specific responsibilities relating to water such as fisheries and navigation, as well as exercising overall responsibilities such as the conduct of external affairs relating to transboundary waters. The federal government has an obligation to prevent pollution of boundary waters and waters flowing across the boundary between Canada and the United States.Various other federal legislative instruments provide the Government of Canada with authorities to address freshwater issues across the country, such as:
  • Canada Water Act (1985): provides for the management of water resources in Canada including research as well as the planning and implementation of programs relating to the conservation, development and utilization of water resources; provides an enabling framework for collaboration among the federal and provincial / territorial governments in matters relating to water resources; and, prohibits the deposit of waste of any type in any waters composing a water quality management area designated under the Act, or in any place under any conditions where the waste may enter any such waters.
  • Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999 (CEPA): focuses on the prevention of pollution as well as the protection of the environment (including water) and human health in order to contribute to sustainable development; and, regulates many of the substances that have a deleterious effect on the environment including aquatic ecosystems.
  • Fisheries Act, 2019: provides the Department of Fisheries and Oceans with clear mandates to restore lost protections, prioritize rebuilding fish populations and incorporate modern safeguards so that fish and fish habitat are protected for future generations and Canada's fisheries can continue to grow the economy and sustain coastal communities.
The Government of Canada works collaboratively with other governmental and nongovernmental partners to protect water quality and ecosystem health through established partnerships, such as the Canadian Council of Ministers of the Environment, and instruments focused on the protection of major transboundary waters of concern, such as the Canada-United States Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement and the Canada-Ontario Agreement on Great Lakes Water Quality and Ecosystem Health.Water also features prominently in the Minister of the Environment and Climate Change’s mandate letter from the Prime Minister. The Minister has been asked, with the support of the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, to establish a Canada Water Agency and implement a strengthened Freshwater Action Plan, including a historic investment to provide funding to protect and restore large lakes and river systems starting with the Great Lakes-St. Lawrence River System, Lake Simcoe, the Lake Winnipeg Basin, the Fraser River Basin and the Mackenzie River Basin.Creating the Canada Water Agency presents a unique opportunity for Canada to work with provinces, territories, Indigenous peoples, local authorities, scientists and others to strengthen collaboration, and find the best ways to keep our water safe, clean and well-managed, while also respecting the jurisdictions of other governments. The federal government is currently developing options for the proposed Canada Water Agency. The identification of freshwater priorities and creation of the Agency has been the subject of engagement with provincial and territorial governments, Indigenous peoples, stakeholders, and the public. Priorities highlighted in consultations included: climate adaptation, enhanced coordination / improved governance of federal freshwater activities, science, data, and advancing reconciliation with Indigenous peoples.The Government of Canada’s commitment to freshwater was most recently demonstrated through Budget 2022, which included $88.1 million over five years in new funding to advance the federal freshwater agenda. This includes resources to stand up a Canada Water Agency by the end of 2022, sustain action under the Freshwater Action Plan for an additional year to clean up major lakes and river systems, and support cutting edge science and research at the Experimental Lakes Area in Northern Ontario. Following the establishment of a Canada Water Agency, the Government of Canada has committed to advance the modernization of the Canada Water Act to reflect Canada’s freshwater reality, including climate change and Indigenous rights.When it comes to the protection of groundwater in Ontario’s Tiny, Springwater, Oro-Medonte and Tay townships, the Province of Ontario has primary authority related to the siting and permitting of open-pit mining operations, along with groundwater management and source water protection. Ontario’s Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks can be contacted to provide further information.
Environmental protectionGroundwaterSimcoe County
44th Parliament223Government response tabledNovember 4, 2022e-4028e-4028 (Environment)VictorBriceElizabethMaySaanich—Gulf IslandsGreen PartyBCMay 20, 2022, at 2:15 p.m. (EDT)July 19, 2022, at 2:15 p.m. (EDT)September 21, 2022November 4, 2022July 19, 2022Petition to the <Addressee type="3" affiliationId="" mp-riding-display="1">Government of Canada</Addressee>Whereas:Indigenous peoples have rights and title to their traditional territories and have been stewards of these lands since time immemorial;The climate crisis requires action by all levels of government and industry;Old-growth forests provide immeasurable benefits, including carbon sequestration, biodiversity, culture, recreation, education, food and more;Valley-bottom high productivity old-growth ecosystems in British Columbia are endangered;Of the remaining 2.7% of original high productivity old-growth forests in British Columbia, 75% are still slated to be logged;Only 9% of the original 360,000 hectares of valley-bottom high productivity old-growth on Vancouver Island remain today, and only 2.6% of those forests are protected in parks;The last unprotected intact old-growth valley on Southern Vancouver Island, Fairy Creek, is slated for logging, along with the upper Walbran Valley and other remaining pockets of old growth; andMost Canadians support sustainable harvesting of second and third growth forests, but do not support logging old-growth trees or destroying their surrounding ecosystems.We, the undersigned, citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to: 1. Work with the provinces and First Nations to immediately halt logging of endangered old-growth ecosystems; 2. Fund the long-term protection of old-growth ecosystems as a priority for Canada’s climate action plan and reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples;3. Support value-added forestry initiatives in partnership with First Nations to ensure Canada’s forestry industry is sustainable, and based on the harvesting of second and third growth forests;4. Ban the export of raw logs and maximize resource use for local jobs; and5. Ban the use of whole trees for wood pellet biofuel production.
Response by the Minister of Natural ResourcesSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, P.C., M.P.Canada’s forests provide a wealth of environmental, economic, social and cultural benefits to Canadians. Through careful monitoring and planning, Canada’s forest sector manages the long-term health of its forests, both safeguarding these benefits in the face of challenges and finding new opportunities in a changing world.Finding solutions also means working with Indigenous communities and leaders so that forest management and conservation practices are informed by Indigenous knowledge systems. Through the Indigenous Forestry Initiative (IFI), Natural Resources Canada (NRCan) is providing financial support to Indigenous-led projects in the forest sector — creating good jobs and supporting the stewardship of Canada’s forests. Since 2017, the program has supported 128 Indigenous-led, forest-based economic development projects and helped to create more than 787 jobs and 45 new or expanded businesses.In addition to supporting traditional forestry activities, the IFI program supports communities seeking to develop opportunities in non-timber forest products such as food and health products, and forest biomass for renewable energy production. IFI projects have funded businesses that harvest, manufacture and sell products such as: natural health products based on traditional Indigenous pharmacopoeia; wild plant and fruit jellies and syrups; essential oils; sustainably produced firewood, wood, chips, wood pellets and biomass briquettes; and wild mushrooms, herbs and berries. Another priority area for funding from IFI is in forest stewardship and forest-management opportunities. The program has helped to build capacity in the Indigenous forest sector by providing funding for training to build forest sector skills and technical capacity so that Indigenous partners and communities are better positioned to sustainably develop and manage forested areas on their traditional territories.The IFI works directly with more than 100 Indigenous communities across the country. The program promotes active involvement of Indigenous communities in the sustainable development and use of natural resources by working in partnership with, among others, industry and other government organizations. NRCan’s regionally deployed Indigenous Forestry Liaison Officers engage with communities to build relationships, raise awareness of the program and opportunities in the forest sector, and facilitate the development of projects and partnerships. Many of these Regional Liaison Officers are Indigenous people, have backgrounds in forestry, and provide technical advice on forest and land management practices and forest products manufacturing.British Columbia’s iconic old growth forests have deep-rooted cultural significance to Indigenous communities and are important to all British Columbians. They are also critical habitats for dozens of species at risk and migratory birds and are important natural stores of carbon.The Departments of Environment and Climate Change Canada and NRCan are working together to put in place the British Columbia Old Growth Nature Fund, that will advance shared objectives for urgent protection of vital ecosystems, wildlife habitats and species at risk while also protecting carbon stores in Old Growth forests. The Old Growth Nature Fund is being established in collaboration with the Province of British Columbia, non-governmental organizations, and Indigenous and local communities.This collaborative work to protect communities and diverse natural habitats, including by advancing Indigenous-led conservation efforts, is also crucial to securing a cleaner, healthier and greener future for Canadians.Once established, the Old Growth Nature Fund will further complement the Enhanced Nature Legacy announced in 2021, and the Natural Climate Solutions Fund announced in 2020.
  • Enhanced Nature Legacy responds to the global biodiversity crisis, threats to Canada’s ecosystem and wildlife and pressures for sustainable recovery and well-being of Canadians, by: protecting 25% of Canada’s lands and freshwater by 2025; strengthening protection and recovery of species at risk and their habitats; advancing reconciliation through Indigenous leadership in conservation and supporting healthy natural infrastructure and increased access to nature.
  • Natural Climate Solutions Fund embraces the power of nature to reduce the effects of and adapt to climate change all while supporting biodiversity. This horizontal initiative includes three separate, but related, programs: NRCan’s 2 Billion Trees program, Environment and Climate Change Canada’s (ECCC) Nature Smart Climate Solutions Fund, and Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada’s Agricultural Climate Solutions Program.
Canada boasts the most forest area certified by internationally recognized, third party systems as being managed in a sustainable way, respecting ecological values and Indigenous rights. Three quarters of Canada’s managed public forests are certified to one or more of three sustainable forest management certification systems: the Sustainable Forestry Initiative, the Forest Stewardship Council, and the Canadian Standards Association.As with all forest industries in Canada, the wood pellet industry is governed by provincial legislation, regulations and policies that are the basis for sustainable forest management, and include protections for old-growth forests. Strict monitoring and enforcement measures ensure that Canada’s forests are harvested legally and sustainably.Canadian wood pellets are primarily made from sawmill residues that are by-products of wood product manufacturing. The industry also uses branches and treetops from harvest operations, logs damaged by natural disturbances, or trees that are cut to manage long-term ecological values in the forest. If not used, these additional sources of wood fibre are typically left to decompose into the atmosphere, or may be burned onsite.Supporting markets for all material harvested, as part of a sustainable forest management plan, ensures that no part of the harvested tree is wasted, and delivers economic benefits to Canadians.
Response by the Minister of International Trade, Export Promotion, Small Business and Economic DevelopmentSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Arif ViraniForests provide a wide range of economic, social and environmental benefits for people and communities across Canada. They are a major source of income and employment for 300 communities across the country, directly employing 205,000 workers, including over 11,500 Indigenous workers.With respect to the proposal to ban the export of raw logs, logs are integral to the domestic manufacturing industry for a wide range of forest products including softwood lumber and other products like high value finished veneer panels. Domestic and international trade in logs is important for log harvesters and Canadian trade. The policy and process governing the export of logs harvested in British Columbia contained in Global Affairs Canada’s Notice to Exporters No. 102 form an important part of the Government’s efforts to ensure the right balance between log exports and domestic policy objectives.The Government regularly reviews policies to ensure that Canada’s domestic policy objectives and trade opportunities are maximized and welcomes all ideas and proposals related to its policies, including those associated with the export of raw logs. The Department is committed to continuing to work and collaborate closely with all stakeholders and partners on this issue to achieve the best possible results for Canada.
Response by the Minister of Environment and Climate ChangeSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable STEVEN GUILBEAULTEnvironment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) would like to thank the petitioner for their interest in Canadian forests and forest ecosystems, in particular the old growth forests and habitats found in British Columbia (B.C.).With respect to the five calls to the Government of Canada found in the petition, please note the following:1. Canada is home to ecosystems that are globally significant in their capacity to absorb carbon, mitigate the impacts of climate change, and protect biodiversity. This includes 24% of the world’s wetlands, 25% of temperate rainforest areas and 28% of remaining boreal forests. In this context, the Government of Canada understands that the dual crises of climate change and biodiversity loss are connected and need to be tackled together.That said, conservation and protection of Canada’s forests, including old-growth forests and ecosystems, is a shared responsibility. The vast majority of Canada's forests are located on provincial and territorial Crown lands. In B.C., approximately 96% of forests are on provincial crown land, where, under the Constitution Act, 1867, forest management is the jurisdiction of the provincial government. As such, forest management on those lands is within the jurisdiction of the B.C. government. At the same time, there is an important federal role to conserve migratory bird habitat, protect critical habitat of federally listed species at risk, and mitigate climate change.With this in mind, the Mandate Letters of the Ministers of ECCC and Natural Resources include a commitment to help protect old growth forests, notably in B.C., by reaching a Nature Agreement with B.C., establishing a $50 million B. C. Old Growth Nature Fund, and ensuring First Nations, local communities and workers are partners in shaping the path forward for nature protection. This $50 million investment was made through Budget 2022.The Old Growth Nature Fund will support efforts to halt logging of old-growth forests and is a key component of the Canada-B.C. Nature Agreement, which presents a unique opportunity to collaboratively advance nature conservation, species at risk and climate mitigation objectives in collaboration with provincial and Indigenous partners.To this end, and in light of recent announcements from the Government of B.C. concerning moratoria on old growth forest harvesting, departmental officials have been working with their provincial colleagues, both to negotiate and finalize a Nature Agreement and to explore additional ways to encourage and support the province in its efforts to protect and restore habitat. This includes protecting the habitat of old growth-associated species such as Spotted Owl and Marbled Murrelet.2. The Government of Canada appreciates that in addition to their habitat functions, forests are key to the health of our climate, influencing rainfall, temperature, and other metrics. Temperate old growth forests, like those in B.C., also function as important carbon reservoirs.Appreciating the significance of forests to biodiversity conservation and climate, the federal government has contributed to protecting nearly 400,000 hectares of forest habitat in B.C. This includes conservation projects under programs such as the Target 1 Challenge, Natural Heritage Conservation Program, Ecological Gifts Program, and others.Adding to these efforts, the Old Growth Nature Fund, referenced above, will deliver on the Ministers’ mandate letters by providing $50 million to the Government of B.C., to be matched by B.C., to permanently protect and conserve old growth forests in the province. The Fund will focus on protecting at-risk high productivity old growth forests that are of prime biodiversity value identified as important for species at risk, migratory birds, climate mitigation and reconciliation with Indigenous peoples. Specifically, federal funding will support planning and collaboration with B.C. and Indigenous communities, and provide incentives for third-party funders, to permanently protect and conserve large areas of at-risk old growth forests in the province.Alongside this work, the federal government has made forests a central part of Canada’s plan to tackle climate change. The Old Growth Nature Fund in particular is expected to contribute directly to the Government of Canada's commitments to achieve Canada’s 2030 greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions reduction goal and net-zero GHG emissions by 2050. The old growth temperate rainforests of B.C. are among the largest natural carbon sinks in the world (on a per hectare basis) and are among the most efficient ecosystems at capturing carbon in Canada.Complementing this effort on a broader scale, the Government of Canada has also announced a series of funding initiatives of significance to forest ecosystems and forestry in Canada:
  • The Natural Climate Solutions Fund (NCSF), a $4 billion initiative over ten years to restore, better manage, and conserve Canada’s natural and managed ecosystems. The NCSF includes three complementary programs:
    • 2 Billion Trees program, led by Natural Resources Canada;
    • NSCF, led by ECCC; and
    • The Agricultural Climate Solutions (ACS) program, led by Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada.
  • The Nature Smart Climate Solutions Fund (NSCSF) involves $631 million over 10 years (2021-2031) to reduce 2-4 megatons of GHG emissions annually. Up to $36.9 million in funding has been allocated to support Indigenous communities to deliver projects that build capacity and advance Indigenous-led efforts on natural climate solutions, with a focus on improved management, conservation, and restoration of wetlands, grasslands and forests that result in reduced and captured GHG emissions.
  • Enhanced Nature Legacy, providing $2.3 billion in new funding over five years that will further contribute to the implementation of conservation measures for Canada’s land and freshwater ecosystems and wildlife. This includes the establishment of new provincial and territorial protected areas, Indigenous Protected and Conserved Areas, and additional habitat restoration. Budget 2022 increased this investment by $780 million over five years for the NSCSF. It also included the announcement of further investments through the Low Carbon Economy Fund, a $2 billion fund that could, amongst other things, incent provinces to leave timber standing (for example, by creating other revenue streams for forests).
  • The recent Emissions Reduction Plan committed another $780 million to nature-based solutions, including the conservation, restoration and enhanced management of grassland, wetland, peatland and forest ecosystems.
The broader significance of Canada’s forests is also recognized in the Pan-Canadian Approach to Transforming Species at Risk Conservation in Canada, where forests are identified as a priority sector. Development of a conservation action plan for species at risk is currently underway in collaboration with forest sector partners and stakeholders to advance the protection and recovery of species at risk and enhance sector sustainability.With respect to support for Indigenous community involvement in eco-system protection and climate action, including in forests and more broadly, it should be noted that under the NSCSF, described above, an Indigenous Partnership (NSCSF-IP) stream was established to provide targeted funding to enable Indigenous peoples to play a meaningful leadership role in natural climate solutions, as part of the Government of Canada’s commitment to Reconciliation. Through the NSCSF-IP, ECCC supports Indigenous organizations and communities to undertake Indigenous-led capacity building activities and on-the-ground projects for ecological restoration, improved land management, and conservation of wetlands, grasslands, agricultural lands and forests that result in reduced GHG emissions, and that maximize co-benefits for biodiversity, climate resiliency, and human well-being.Beyond this, ECCC has also funded approximately 115 First Nations, Inuit and Métis Guardians initiatives since 2017, with investments totaling over $46 million. Indigenous Guardians initiatives support Indigenous rights and responsibilities in protecting and conserving ecosystems - including old-growth forests, developing and maintaining sustainable economies, and continuing the profound connections between the Canadian landscape and Indigenous culture. Indigenous Guardians are Indigenous peoples exercising their cultural responsibilities through on-the-ground stewardship of traditional lands, waters, air, and ice. They act as the “eyes and ears on the ground”.  Indigenous Guardians funding supports on-the-ground activities such as ecological and cultural resource monitoring, restoration, and visitor experience activities, contribution to cultural continuity (e.g., intergenerational knowledge transmission) and implementation of Indigenous conservation practices and Indigenous knowledge.
Environmental protectionForest policyIndigenous policy
44th Parliament223Government response tabledSeptember 20, 2022e-3730e-3730 (Environment)BrendonSamuelsLaurelCollinsVictoriaNDPBCJanuary 12, 2022, at 8:26 a.m. (EDT)May 12, 2022, at 8:26 a.m. (EDT)June 20, 2022September 20, 2022May 12, 2022Petition to the <Addressee type="2" affiliationId="" mp-riding-display="1">Government of Canada</Addressee>Whereas:The government has committed to banning harmful single-use plastics by 2030;Party balloons represent a harmful and pervasive form of single-use plastic;Balloons and ribbons are a major source of plastic pollution and marine debris, capable of travelling vast distances and persisting in the environment for many years;Balloons and ribbons pose a serious hazard to wildlife via entanglement and ingestion of non-degradable plastics;Releasing balloons and sky lanterns poses a risk of causing power outages and fires;Helium is a finite, non-renewable resource that is essential for medical, engineering, industrial and other scientific applications;A letter co-signed by plastic pollution experts, wildlife conservationists and environmental scientists calls for more government regulation on selling and releasing plastic balloons and sky lanterns;More public education is needed to raise awareness of the harms associated with releasing balloons and sky lanterns; andAlternatives to plastic balloons and lanterns for celebrations are widely available.We, the undersigned, residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to:1. Ban the release of latex, mylar, nylon, rubber, helium and other party balloons and sky lanterns into the environment;2. Consider adding balloons (including but not limited to latex, mylar, nylon and other materials) to the list of harmful single use plastics to be banned;3. Require manufacturers of balloons and sky lanterns to include warning labels on commercial packaging discouraging the release of balloons or sky lanterns outdoors; and4. Support public education about environmental harms associated with balloons, applicable laws prohibiting balloon releases and available alternatives to balloon releases.
Response by the Minister of Environment and Climate ChangeSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable STEVEN GUILBEAULTThe Government of Canada appreciates your concern about the effects of pollution from balloons and ribbons on wildlife. The Government of Canada agrees that plastic pollution is a global challenge that requires immediate action. Plastic waste and pollution burdens our economy and threatens the health of our environment including wildlife, rivers, lakes and oceans.The Government of Canada has a comprehensive plan to address plastic pollution and waste and create the conditions for a circular plastic economy where plastics are kept in the economy and out of the environment. As one part of our plan, we published the final Single-use Plastics Prohibition Regulations[1] in the Canada Gazette, Part II on June 22, 2022. These Regulations prohibit the manufacture, import and sale of six categories of single-use plastics items (checkout bags; cutlery; foodservice ware containing expanded or extruded polystyrene, polyvinyl chloride, oxo-degradable plastic or black plastic made with carbon black; ring carriers; stir sticks; and straws) with a temporary exemption for export. The first set of prohibitions will come into force on December 20th of this year.  These items were chosen by applying the Government of Canada’s Management Framework for Single-Use Plastics[2] which includes criteria to determine which single use plastics should be banned. The criteria includes if an item is prevalent in the environment, poses a threat of harm (e.g., to wildlife and their habitat), and is difficult to recycle. Going forward, the Government will continue to apply the framework and consider the scientific evidence in making any future decisions on whether or not to prohibit or otherwise manage other single-use plastics, including balloons. This will include reviewing performance data for existing measures and working with partners and stakeholders to identify areas where further action is needed.Data utilized in the development of the Single-use Plastics Prohibition Regulations did not provide evidence that these items were prevalent in the environment. According to Ocean Wise’s[3] shoreline clean up data for Canada, balloons were not one of the top 12 commonly found littered items in 2021 and data from the Ocean Conservancy[4] found that 1,791 littered balloons were found in Canada in 2021, compared to 4,194 balloons in 2019. Nevertheless, the Government of Canada recognizes that balloons and their attached ribbons, when littered, can be consumed by wildlife and entangle them. The government recognizes that, as a consumer product, party balloons and sky lanterns are unique in that they are often purchased in the context of ceremonial, celebratory or other events, sometimes with the explicit intent of releasing them into the environment.  As part of our commitment to reduce plastic waste in operations, the Government is eliminating the unnecessary use of single-use plastics, including the use and release of balloons at federal meetings and events.  Additional details are provided in the Guidance for the Reduction of Plastic Waste in Meetings and Events - Canada.ca[5].In Canada, federal, provincial/territorial, and municipal governments share the responsibility for the sound management of waste. Collectively, these efforts help prevent plastic pollution. The Government of Canada works with provinces and territories on issues of plastic waste and pollution through the Canadian Council of Ministers of the Environment (CCME). As committed to in the Phase 1 Canada-wide Action Plan on Zero Plastic Waste[6], the CCME is developing a Roadmap to Strengthen the Management of Single-Use and Disposable Plastics. In the meantime, some jurisdictions in Canada have already banned the outdoor release of balloons inflated with gas that is lighter than air (e.g., helium). Other jurisdictions offer guidelines for helium balloon release (e.g., see the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador's guidance document[7] on helium balloon release).Canada has supported the development of a variety of public education tools that raise awareness about plastic litter and suggest practical alternatives to common plastic products, including balloons. For example, the Climate Kids Plastics Game[8], the Clean Seas Back to School Campaign[9] and the 10,000 Changes Program[10] offer fun, interactive ways to learn about responsible choices related to party balloons and other single-use plastics. The CCME is also developing guidance on the use of labels and terms to help consumers better understand the plastic products on the market and their proper use and treatment at their end-of-life. As these examples demonstrate, building partnerships to promote and facilitate sustainable practices will be a central component in achieving the Government’s comprehensive zero plastic waste agenda.The Government of Canada, along with provincial and territorial governments, also recognises the fire hazard associated with sky lanterns. Sky lanterns are included in Health Canada's guide on fire safety[11] and some jurisdictions in Canada have banned them; for example, they are banned under Nova Scotia's fire code since August 2012.   [1] https://www.gazette.gc.ca/rp-pr/p2/2022/2022-06-22/html/sor-dors138-eng.html[2] https://www.canada.ca/en/environment-climate-change/services/canadian-environmental-protection-act-registry/plastics-proposed-integrated-management-approach.html[3] https://shorelinecleanup.org/impact-visualized-data[4] https://www.coastalcleanupdata.org/reports[5] https://www.canada.ca/en/treasury-board-secretariat/services/innovation/greening-government/guidance-reduction-plastic-waste-meetings-events.html[6] https://ccme.ca/en/res/1589_ccmecanada-wideactionplanonzeroplasticwaste_en-secured.pdf[7] https://www.gov.nl.ca/ecc/files/env-protection-waste-guidancedocs-helium-balloon-release.pdf[8] https://climatekids.ca/[9] https://www.cleanseas.org/back-school[10] https://10000changes.ca/en/education/[11] https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/services/home-safety/fire-safety.html
BalloonsEnvironmental protectionSingle-use plastics
44th Parliament223Government response tabledSeptember 20, 2022441-00597441-00597 (Environment)JohnNaterPerth—WellingtonConservativeONJune 16, 2022September 20, 2022May 27, 2022PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONSWe, the undersigned, residents of the city of Stratford, Ontario, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:THAT the planned obsolescence of household appliances, including electronics, creates waste and greenhouse gas emissions.THEREFORE, your petitioners call upon the House of Commons to create and implement "right to repair" legislation to extend the life of home appliances, particularly electronics, by requiring manufacturers to supply repair manuals and spare parts and facilitate their replication after the part is no longer produced.
Response by the Minister of Innovation, Science and IndustrySigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): THE HON. FRANÇOIS-PHILIPPE CHAMPAGNEThe Government of Canada is striving to build a more resilient, sustainable, and competitive economy, aligning with its ambitious environmental agenda. This includes supporting a more circular economy approach for the management of products, which aims at ensuring that the value of products is kept in the economy – and out of the environment – for as long as possible.The Government of Canada believes that an essential step to support a more circular economy is to implement measures encouraging the repair of home appliances, such as the ones requested in the petition.In his mandate letters dated December 16, 2021, the Prime Minister specifically asked the Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry and the Minister of Environment and Climate Change to work together to provide Canadians with a ‘right to repair’ to extend the life of their home appliances by requiring manufacturers to supply repair manuals and spare parts, and businesses to inform Canadians of the environmental impacts of consumer products. The Prime Minister further asked for the amendment of the Copyright Act to remove obstacles to the repair of digital devices and systems.The Government of Canada is coordinating efforts to develop policies and implement measures supporting a ‘right to repair’. Facilitating repair is a multi-faceted public policy challenge that requires a variety of measures at all levels of government.The Government of Canada is committed to do its part in removing as many obstacles as possible and incentivizing manufacturers to better meet the needs of the consumers and environment. To preserve our planet for future generations, it is important to empower Canadians with the flexibility to choose the best options for maintaining and repairing the products they use or own.
Electric household appliancesEnvironmental protectionRight to repair
44th Parliament223Government response tabledSeptember 20, 2022e-3919e-3919 (Environment)VictorBriceElizabethMaySaanich—Gulf IslandsGreen PartyBCMarch 11, 2022, at 2:50 p.m. (EDT)May 10, 2022, at 2:50 p.m. (EDT)June 13, 2022September 20, 2022May 12, 2022Petition to the <Addressee type="3" affiliationId="" mp-riding-display="1">Government of Canada</Addressee>Whereas:Thermal coal, the kind burned to make electricity, is the world’s dirtiest fossil fuel;Thermal coal creates half of the world’s carbon emissions and the pollution it creates kills more than 800,000 people every year;The government has a plan to phase out thermal coal exports, but it is outdated and insufficient;The world needs to move rapidly away from thermal coal to have any chance of limiting global warming to the Paris target of 1.5 degrees Celsius;The physical effects of climate change pose serious risks for Canadians, Canada’s wildlife and the Canadian economy including permafrost melt, droughts, heatwaves, wildfires, floods, sea level rise, increased vector-borne diseases, disruptions to supply chains, destruction of infrastructure and damage to key industries including agriculture and forestry; andCanada’s greenhouse gas emissions have increased since the Paris Agreement was signed, making it the worst performing of all G7 nations since the 2015 Conference of the Parties in Paris, France.We, the undersigned, citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to: 1. Add thermal coal to the Priority Substances List of the Canadian Environment Protection Act (CEPA), and, as soon thereafter as possible, to the Toxic Substances List of CEPA; and2. Regulate the mining, use, export, and import of thermal coal in Canada in accordance with our international commitments to reduce carbon emissions at home and abroad.
Response by the Minister of Environment and Climate ChangeSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable STEVEN GUILBEAULTPhasing out coal use in our electricity sector is another critical component of Canadian and global efforts to tackle climate change. The clean energy transition will not only cut greenhouse gas emissions, it will also protect our air, our water and our health.In December 2018, Canada published regulations to phase out conventional coal-fired electricity by 2030. This is expected to result in cumulative GHG reductions of 94 million tonnes over the 2019 to 2055 period, including 12.8 million tonnes in 2030.At the 26th United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change Climate Change Conference of the Parties, Prime Minister Trudeau stated Canada’s goal of establishing a net-zero emissions electricity grid by 2035. This commitment was reflected in the mandate letter for the Minister of the Environment in December 2021. Achieving that goal will be transformational, and will require multiple measures and all levels of government working together. At the federal level, the new Clean Electricity Standard is being complemented by numerous investment programs for the electricity sector administered by Natural Resources Canada, ISED and Infrastructure Canada, including those announced in Budget 2022. These measures are intended to help ensure that Canada achieves a clean, reliable and affordable electricity system. For further information regarding the development of the CES, please see A clean electricity standard in support of a net-zero electricity sector.The Government of Canada is also addressing GHG emissions from electricity generation globally. Burning thermal coal is the single largest contributor to climate change globally and a major source of toxic pollution that harms human health. In 2019, Export Development Canada committed to no new financing for international coal-fired power plants, thermal coal mines or dedicated thermal coal-related infrastructure. In May 2021, all G7 countries, following Canada’s leadership, also agreed to take concrete steps to take steps to end government investment for unabated thermal coal power generation projects. In the aforementioned mandate letter of December 2021, the Minister of Environment was also mandated to Work with the Minister of International Trade, Export Promotion, Small Business and Economic Development to continue Canada’s leadership on the global effort to phase out coal-powered electricity and the mining of thermal coal and ban thermal coal exports from and through Canada as swiftly as possible, and no later than 2030. 
Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999CoalEnvironmental protectionInternational tradeMining industry
44th Parliament223Government response tabledSeptember 20, 2022e-3695e-3695 (Environment)KonstantineMalakosAlexandreBoulericeRosemont—La Petite-PatrieNDPQCDecember 2, 2021, at 11:33 a.m. (EDT)March 2, 2022, at 11:33 a.m. (EDT)May 17, 2022September 20, 2022March 3, 2022Petition to the <Addressee type="3" affiliationId="" mp-riding-display="1">Government of Canada</Addressee>Whereas: The Government of Canada has made a commitment to carbon neutrality;Highly polluting industries often have the opposite impact;The Department of Fisheries and Oceans has guidelines for the use of explosives in or near Canadian fishing waters; There is a need to establish guidelines on all impacts (air, water, sound, shockwave) caused by the use of explosives near residential areas; andThe Supreme Court of Canada ruled that the federal government has the right to overrule provincial decisions on climate change issues, and Canada recently adopted legislation to respect the principles of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. We, the undersigned, residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to:1. Stop construction of all new facilities used by highly polluting industries, such as cement plants, nuclear waste facilities, factories, and so on, until there has been in-depth consultation (accepting refusal, if that is the case) with the indigenous communities whose natural surroundings will be affected by the project;2. Request that a comprehensive review be conducted by the Department of Fisheries and Oceans on the impacts on wildlife if the construction project affects interprovincial or international waters; and3. Request that a review be conducted by a neutral third party and not by firms hired by the companies attempting to build the projects, and that the costs of these reviews be paid for by those companies.
Response by the Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast GuardSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Mike KellowayFisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) is committed to protecting our oceans, freshwater and aquatic ecosystems, and species from negative human impacts. This is achieved through sound science, and consultation and collaboration with Indigenous communities. DFO has many policies, processes, and guidelines in place to ensure that the potential impacts of large projects on aquatic species and habitats are scrutinised prior to allowing those projects to proceed.The work of DFO to protect our aquatic ecosystems and species from anthropogenic impacts is supported by the implementation of the Fisheries Act and the Species at Risk Act (SARA). DFO works diligently to ensure compliance of proposed projects that will take place in or near water with relevant provisions under these laws. DFO ensures that proponents are provided with important expertise and guidance to incorporate into project design such that impacts of their project on the aquatic ecosystem can be minimised.In 1998, DFO published the Guidelines for the Use of Explosives In or Near Canadian Fisheries Water. The purpose of these guidelines was to protect against the death of fish and the harmful alteration, disruption, or destruction of fish habitat caused by the detonation of explosives. However, given the advancement in scientific research and the development of new technologies since its publication, these guidelines are outdated and are no longer provided to proponents by DFO. Instead, DFO makes available to proponents advice on a number of avoidance and mitigation measures, and codes of practice, that can be followed to ensure that the impacts of works in and near water on fish and fish habitat are minimised. For projects that cannot avoid impacts on fish and fish habitat, DFO undertakes a rigorous regulatory review. Through this review, departmental staff identify the potential risks of the project to fish and fish habitat, and work with the proponent to ensure that impacts are managed in the most effective way possible. Specifically, DFO determines if the project may require a Fisheries Act authorisation and/or SARA permit, and determines the appropriateness of avoidance and mitigation measures to reduce impacts. If impacts cannot be fully avoided, DFO requires that the proponent develop an offsetting plan to put in place measures to counterbalance the unavoidable residual impacts to fish and fish habitat before an authorisation or permit is issued.There are also other legal mechanisms in place to consider the potential impacts that large projects may have on the environment. Under the Impact Assessment Act (IAA), the Minister of Environment and Climate Change must consider any change that a project may cause to the environment, whether that change occurs within the province where the project is being carried out, in a province other than the one where the project is being carried out, or outside of Canada. Additionally, as the Government of Canada may be reviewing a proposed project, provincial and territorial laws and processes continue to apply. As such, DFO works with other jurisdictions, as well as with Indigenous governing bodies, over the course of the review of a project, whether that be a regulatory review under the Fisheries Act or SARA, or as part of a review under the IAA.When making a decision regarding a proposed project, the Crown has an obligation to consider any adverse effects that the decision may have on the rights of the Indigenous Peoples of Canada, recognised and affirmed by section 35 of the Constitution Act, 1982. The Crown has statutory, contractual, and common law obligations to consult with Indigenous groups and, if appropriate, accommodate those groups when it contemplates conduct that might adversely impact established or potential section 35 rights. Such conduct would include the issuance of an authorisation under the Fisheries Act or a permit under SARA for the purposes of enabling a project, and/or making a decision under the IAA. Additionally, the Fisheries Act and the IAA set out that when making a decision under either Act, the responsible Minister must consider, among other things, Indigenous knowledge that has been provided to them in relation to that decision.
Response by the Minister of Environment and Climate ChangeSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable STEVEN GUILBEAULTThe  Impact Assessment Act (the IAA) is the federal law that provides for review of the environmental, health, social and economic impacts of major projects in Canada, including mines, dams, and transmission projects, before they are implemented.  Indigenous Peoples are stewards of this land, and their knowledge and partnership is critical to fostering sustainability through impact assessments. The IAA includes requirements to consult and assess potential environmental effects that a designated project may have on Indigenous Peoples, as well as any adverse impacts on the rights of Indigenous Peoples. Elements of the impact assessment process, such as early and regular engagement and the mandatory consideration of Indigenous knowledge, support the Government of Canada’s aim to secure free, prior and informed consent throughout the impact assessment process for all decisions that affect Indigenous Peoples’ rights and interests.
Environmental protectionIndigenous peoplesIndustrial facilitiesPublic consultation
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJune 21, 2022441-00424441-00424 (Environment)ElizabethMaySaanich—Gulf IslandsGreen PartyBCMay 10, 2022June 21, 2022May 4, 2022PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLEDWe, the undersigned, citizens of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:WHEREAS:Given current ecological, social and economic crises, our collective future depends on all levels of government and Canadians to make informed and responsible decisions regarding environment and sustainability matters;We have entered an age whereby human impact is approaching many ecological system boundaries such as fresh water usage, atmospheric pollution, and extinction of species;The current state of environmental education in Canada is inadequate to address these challenges and empower citizens to understand the complexity of the issues and take effective action; and The government of Canada should provide coherent national leadership in environmental and sustainability education and recognize the importance of Indigenous Knowledges and practices in the education of Indigenous and non-indigenous peoples.THEREFORE, your petitioners call on the House of Commons to take a leadership role in enacting a Canadian strategy that supports educators, communicators, community leaders, as well as provincial and municipal governments to take actions that result in healthy, sustainable, and flourishing human and ecological communities.
Response by the Minister of Environment and Climate ChangeSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable STEVEN GUILBEAULTThe Minister of the Environment and Climate Change has a mandate to provide Canadians with environmental information in the public interest, and promote and encourage practices and conduct that help to preserve the environment, in cooperation with partners such as provincial governments, Indigenous peoples, not-for-profit organizations, academic institutions and others to advance this mission. Last year, the Minister was also mandated by the Prime Minister to engage with Canadians to better communicate the impact of climate change. Environmental education is critical to tackling the environmental challenges Canada is facing today and will face tomorrow. It is also an important part of our international commitments. Canada is actively engaged in the work of Action for Climate Empowerment (ACE) of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). ACE emphasizes the importance of education to address the climate crisis and promote sustainability. Its overarching goal is to empower people to engage in climate action through education, training, public awareness, public participation, public access to information, and international cooperation on these issues. It also emphasizes the importance of youth voices in climate change action.These obligations are taken very seriously, and the Department recognizes that more needs to be done to improve access to climate and environmental education. The views expressed in this petition will be taken under consideration.In Canada, provinces and territories are responsible for organizing, delivering and assessing all levels of education. The Government of Canada contributes to sustainability knowledge and education through various means including by undertaking and funding critical research that provides the foundation for environmental and sustainability education; working with and providing funding and support to diverse partners across Canada in support of this mission, and leading the Federal Sustainable Development Strategy.Information, Research and ScienceThe Government of Canada has conducted a national assessment process of how and why Canada’s climate is changing. This assessment discusses the impacts of these changes on communities, environment, and the economy, and details how Canadians are adapting. A series of reports that followed the national assessment raise awareness of the issues facing the country and provide information to Canadians to support sound decisions and actions that address climate change and adapt to its impacts.The Government of Canada is also implementing the Roadmap for Open Science. This will make the scientific research process more inclusive and accessible to scientists and Canadians by making data and publications open and making research understandable and useful. In addition, the Government of Canada is developing a climate data strategy to ensure that the private sector and communities have access to data to inform planning and infrastructure investments.At Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC), the Canadian Centre for Climate Services provides information to improve Canadians’ understanding of how the climate is changing and how those changes could affect them, as well as guidance and resources to make climate-smart decisions.The Canadian Environmental Sustainability Indicators program publishes high-quality indicators that provide Canadians with information on Canada's performance on environmental sustainability issues including climate change quality, water quality and availability, and species at risk.Research shows that Canadians trust scientists. To leverage its scientific resources, ECCC has developed a pilot program, in French and English, which helps ECCC scientists, researchers and science experts to become better science communicators and harness storytelling and presentation techniques to reach and motivate more Canadians to take environmental and climate action. Once trained, these experts are connected to the Canadian public through a network of schools, museums, science centres as well non-governmental organizations.Working with PartnersThe Program of Applied Research on Climate Action in Canada (PARCA), a multi-year program of research on climate change, was launched last year in partnership with Environment and Climate Change Canada, Natural Resources Canada, and the Privy Council Office. PARCA is applying behavioural science insights and methods with robust policy analysis to promote climate action and learn about how Canadians think, feel and act in response to climate change and the risks it creates. Specific behaviourally-informed solutions will be developed and tested, online and in the real world, with the potential to reduce greenhouse gas emissions emissions and promote climate adaptation at the individual and community level. This work will generate new insights on a rapid timeframe and use them to inform policy development, program design, and public communications. A large network of internal and external partners, including partners at multilateral organizations and an advisory committee of subject matter experts, will guide the research program to help ensure its relevance, rigour, and impact.Youth have an important role to play in climate action. Today’s youth and future generations will face the gravest environmental and climate consequences. The youth population is also particularly susceptible to mis- and dis-information. Meaningful youth engagement and education in environment and climate action is essential in building a more sustainable future. That is why the Environment and Climate Change Youth Council was created and its first cohort of 10 Canadians between the ages of 18 and 25 will soon be announced. Members of the Environment and Climate Change Youth Council will have meaningful opportunities to engage with government and provide input on the defining environmental issues of our time. They will gain skills and experience that will help start their careers, and connect with a network of like-minded young people.The Government of Canada also contributes to sustainability knowledge and education by funding research through the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada and the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council.In addition, ECCC’s EcoAction Community Funding Program provides financial support to non-profit and non-government organizations for Canadian communities to take on local action-based projects that produce measurable and positive effects on the environment and to build their capacity to sustain these activities in the future. EcoAction funds projects that lead to tangible environmental results, engage the community to improve the environment, increase environmental awareness and capacity in communities, and result in sustainable outcomes and engagement following project completion.The Environmental Damages Fund (EDF) is a specified purpose account administered by ECCC, on behalf of the Government of Canada, to direct funds received from fines, court orders and voluntary payments to priority projects that will benefit Canada’s natural environment. EDF funding is available for projects that address one or more of the program’s priority areas. Priority is given to projects that restore the natural environment and conserve wildlife, improve environmental quality, undertake research and development on environmental restoration and improve and/or advance education and awareness on issues affecting the health of the natural environment. This could include, for example, promoting education related to environmental damage restoration, including training for the assessment and restoration of damage, or for increased awareness and compliance with environmental regulations.FederalSustainable Development StrategyThe Government of Canada provides federal leadership on environmental and sustainability issues through the Federal Sustainable Development Strategy, as detailed in the Federal Sustainable Development Act. Key aspects of this work are openness and transparency in providing information about sustainability in Canada. The Federal Sustainable Development Strategy brings the federal government’s sustainable development priorities, goals, targets and actions together in one place and enables parliamentarians and Canadians to track progress.All federal organizations subject to the Federal Sustainable Development Act are also required to develop a Departmental Sustainable Development Strategy every three years and report on its progress. These documents provide specific details on all departments’ plans and actions that advance sustainable development in Canada. As is stated by the Federal Sustainable Development Act,the Government of Canada recognizes the importance of involving Indigenous peoples in developing the Federal Sustainable Development Strategy given their Traditional Knowledge and unique understanding of, and connection to, Canada’s lands and waters. Indigenous youth will inherit the results of Canada’s sustainable development efforts. It is critical that no future generation of Indigenous youth is “left behind”.   
Environmental protectionSustainable communities
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJune 17, 2022441-00460441-00460 (Environment)ElizabethMaySaanich—Gulf IslandsGreen PartyBCMay 13, 2022June 17, 2022May 10, 2022PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLEDWhereas:
  • Irresponsible practices by industry and multi-national corporations have led to the destruction and denigration of much of Canada's waterways and watersheds;
  • Current laws do not sufficiently protect Canada's waterways and watersheds from such irresponsible practices; and
  • Protecting waterways and watersheds also protects Canada's forests, fisheries, land, and air.
We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada call upon the House of Commons in Parliament assembled to:
  • Update Canada's water laws to ensure that no industry or corporation takes precedence over the health of Canada's waterways and watersheds, and by extension the health of the country's people, species, and land; and
  • Ensure Canada's water laws are updated under the guidance of professionals and specialists in the field of water conservation.
Response by the Minister of Environment and Climate ChangeSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable STEVEN GUILBEAULTThe Government of Canada is committed to safeguarding our country’s freshwater resources for generations to come. No resource is more important to Canadians than fresh, clean water--our lives and livelihoods depend on it.Freshwater management in Canada is a shared responsibility between federal, provincial, territorial and Indigenous governments. The Government of Canada works cooperatively with other orders of government to leverage partnerships and incredible expertise that exists within Canada to safeguard freshwater resources. Below are some examples of collaborations:
  • Federal-provincial-territorial collaboration on water: The Canadian Council of Ministers of the Environment (CCME) is the intergovernmental forum in Canada for discussion and joint action on environmental issues of national concern. It is composed of environment ministers from the federal, provincial and territorial governments. CCME has established a Water Management Committee that works on delivering water activities that are of interest nationally. For example, the CCME develops Canadian Environmental Quality Guidelines to provide a scientific basis for making effective decisions regarding the protection of freshwater resources in Canada.
  • Protecting major watersheds: The Government of Canada has decades of experience undertaking watershed protection initiatives in collaboration with provincial governments, Indigenous communities and stakeholders. Canada is committed to working and collaborating with others to restore and protect our freshwater resources through arrangements such as the Canada-United States Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement, the Canada-Ontario Agreement on Great Lakes Water Quality and Ecosystem Health, the Canada-Quebec Agreement on the St. Lawrence, and the Canada-Manitoba Memorandum of Understanding Respecting Lake Winnipeg and the Lake Winnipeg Basin. In 2017, the Government of Canada invested $70.5 million to protect the Great Lakes and Lake Winnipeg Basin. Of this investment, $44.84 million over five years was provided to the Great Lakes Protection Initiative in order to take action to address the most significant environmental challenges affecting Great Lakes water quality and ecosystem health. This funding supports efforts to address priorities of reducing phosphorus loading to Lake Erie, assessing and enhancing the resilience of Great Lakes coastal wetlands, evaluating and identifying at-risk nearshore waters, reducing releases of harmful chemicals, and increasing public engagement through citizen science. A total of $25.7 million of the Budget 2017 investment was also provided to the Lake Winnipeg basin program. The Government has invested in a wide range of projects that focus on actions to reduce excessive nutrients like phosphorus from entering the lake, as well as projects that enhance collaboration throughout the basin, and that support Indigenous engagement on freshwater issues.
  • Supporting domestic and international water boards: Domestic inter-jurisdictional water boards have been established to focus on specific water issues that have implications for more than one province or territory. These boards include the Ottawa River Regulation Planning Board, Prairie Provinces Water Board, Mackenzie River Basin Board, and the Lake of the Woods Control Board. In addition, the Government of Canada supports 17 Canadian-United States water boards and committees through the International Joint Commission (IJC) by providing science and expert advice. The IJC prevents and resolves disputes between the United States and Canada regarding lake and river systems along the border (under the 1909 Boundary Water treaty).
  • Monitoring water quantity and quality. Environment and Climate Change Canada’s (ECCC) National Hydrological Service (NHS) is the primary operator for the hydrometric monitoring networks which is collaboratively managed and cost-shared with provinces and territories (approximately 2800 active monitoring stations). The NHS is also responsible for water management of international and domestic transboundary water in partnership with the IJC and the provinces and territories. In 2019, the Government of Canada invested $89.7 million to modernize the NHS to support earlier and more accurate information about freshwater resources. This investment will help to ensure the sustainability of the Government’s water-monitoring networks, which in turn will help prepare Canadians for water-related disasters like flooding and droughts. In addition, ECCC’s Water Quality Monitoring and Surveillance Program activities are accomplished in collaboration with provincial and territorial governments. The objectives of the Program are to disseminate timely information on water quality to the public, government agencies, industry and the scientific community. ECCC also oversees the Canadian Environmental Sustainability Indicators Program (CESI). The CESI Program provides freshwater data from federal, provincial and territorial governments to track Canada’s performance on key environmental sustainability issues including pressures on freshwater regional ecosystems, water quality and availability in Canadian rivers.
Canada’s federal legislative framework for freshwater management consists of several legislative instruments that provide the federal government with powers to address freshwater issues across the country, both directly and indirectly. As well, the provinces and territories have significant jurisdiction over water resources within their boundaries and play a core role regarding water management.Federal legislation for freshwater management addresses the key areas of federal jurisdiction. The management of cross-boundary water flows ensures water quantity issues are addressed, while pollution prevention provisions protect water quality in fish-bearing and migratory bird habitats. As well, in this area of shared jurisdiction, the federal legislative framework allows for cooperative collaboration on fresh water with provincial and territorial governments, Indigenous people and international partners.Pollution prevention is a fundamental element of the federal freshwater legislative framework. The Fisheries Act includes provisions prohibiting pollution that could be harmful to fish and other aquatic life. Regulations under the Fisheries Act imposes conditions, including effluent limits, on the release of deleterious substances and effluent into water and can include environmental effects monitoring requirements for facilities. Similarly, The Migratory Birds Convention Act, 1994, protects against pollution on land or in water that could be harmful to migratory birds. The Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999, is an important federal law aimed at preventing pollution and protecting the environment and human health. It authorizes action on a wide range of environmental and health risks that directly impact water resources including, for example, water pollution, toxic substances, and waste.In the Minister of the Environment and Climate Change`s mandate letter from the Prime Minister, water features prominently. The Minister has been asked, with the support of the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, to establish a Canada Water Agency (CWA) and implement a strengthened Freshwater Action Plan, including a historic investment to provide funding to protect and restore large lakes and river systems starting with the Great Lakes-St. Lawrence River System, Lake Simcoe, the Lake Winnipeg Basin, the Fraser River Basin and the Mackenzie River Basin. Following the establishment of the Agency, the Minister of Environment and Climate Change has also been asked to advance the modernization of the Canada Water Act to reflect Canada’s freshwater reality, including climate change and Indigenous rights.The federal government is currently developing options for the proposed Canada Water Agency. The identification of freshwater priorities and creation of the Agency has been the subject of engagement with Indigenous peoples, provincial and territorial governments, stakeholders, and the public. The Government of Canada released the Discussion Paper, Towards the Creation of a Canada Water Agency in December 2020 formally launching a public engagement process to seek feedback on the establishment of a new CWA. In January and February 2021, the federal government held a National Forum, six Regional Forums and expert workshops on freshwater science and data engaging over 2500 Canadians. Priorities highlighted in consultations included: climate adaptation, enhanced coordination/improved governance of federal freshwater activities, science, data, and advancing reconciliation with Indigenous peoples. Dedicated engagement and relationship building with First Nations, Inuit, and Métis on freshwater priorities and development of the CWA has begun and will be ongoing.   
Environmental protectionInland watersWatersheds
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMay 9, 2022441-00269441-00269 (Environment)BradVisMission—Matsqui—Fraser CanyonConservativeBCMarch 24, 2022May 9, 2022March 24, 2022Petition to the Government of CanadaWhereas:We are calling for better forest management and wildfire prevention as well as empowering Local People, working with Licensees, Industry & Contractors, Indigenous Communities, Ranchers, and boots on the ground workers such as Fire Fighters, Forestry workers, and all those that see day to day issues and have the frontline knowledge to provide feedback on the inconsistencies and can help to create change; Ontario created an 'All Hazards Agency' that employs people to manage fire, flood and slides; We believe BC needs this too. Create full time, year around employment for forest restoration and management for fire fighters;The trickle effect of lumber prices and availability along with jobs, mill closures, current and future mudslides, damage to critical habitat, and house insurance increases will have an alarming effect on BC's future if we don't change the current forest practice procedures; and We need to make a change to protect BC Forests and every living thing in it.Therefore:This petition is calling on our Provincial and Federal Governments to provide better forest management and wildfire protection by assessing the current policies and guidelines to enhance those that are working and to re-evaluate and change those that are not.
Response by the Minister of Natural ResourcesSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, P.C., M.P.The Government of Canada acknowledges the importance of, and the need to invest in, measures that will reduce the impact of climate-related disasters. This will make communities safer and more resilient. As wildland fire seasons continue to create risk for Canadian lives and livelihoods, the issue of how governments collectively and individually prepare and respond to these events, as well as how to engage the whole-of-society in prevention and mitigation, is of growing importance.This is why the Government of Canada is developing a whole-of-society approach to address ongoing challenges with wildland fire, climate change adaptation, and disaster risk reduction that will support a resilient forest sector. Federal programs will continue to advance forest management adaptive practices and support wildland fire preparedness and response, a critical part towards building disaster resilience, thriving environments, strong economies, and improved public health outcomes. Budget 2022 proposes additional actions to counter the growing threat of wildfires in Canada, by investing $383 million over five years in training and employment supports for community-based wildland firefighters, and in firefighting equipment and capacity. Investments will include $269 million over five years to strengthen provincial and territorial capabilities, and $39.2 million over five years, starting in 2022-23, to support the purchase of firefighting equipment by First Nations communities. In addition, Budget 2022 proposes $176.81 million over 11 years, starting in 2022-23, to deliver and operate a new wildfire monitoring satellite system.Canada will continue to work with Provincial and Territorial Forest Ministers through the Canadian Council of Forest Ministers (CCFM) to implement collaboratively the Canadian Wildland Fire Strategy, which outlines the actions and partnerships that are required to better predict and prepare for wildland fire events. At its fall 2021 meeting, the CCFM endorsed the launch of the Canadian Dialogue on Wildland Fire and Forest Resilience, to convene and mobilize whole-of-society action to address the growing risk of wildland fire. Five dialogue sessions took place in February 2022, with approximately 100 stakeholders from diverse sectors of society, actively participating in the roundtables to help identify specific actions to prevent and mitigate risks. In addition, Natural Resources Canada recently consulted jurisdictions on their wildland fire needs and priorities.While transforming wildland fire management in Canada will take time, the Government of Canada will work to build that brighter future through continued collaboration, engagement, and the use of science and evidence-based decision-making. The Government of Canada is committed to working with jurisdictions, Indigenous communities, and other partners to identify tangible actions to better prevent and mitigate wildland fires, to protect communities, and improve forest health.
Brush, prairie and forest firesEnvironmental protectionForest policy
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMarch 30, 2022441-00179441-00179 (Environment)AlexRuffBruce—Grey—Owen SoundConservativeONFebruary 14, 2022March 30, 2022February 7, 2022Petition to the Member of Parliament for Bruce-Grey-Owen SoundWhereas:The negative impacts that TC Energy's project will have on our pristine water, our landscape, our community, our property values and our emotional well being must be addressed.We, the undersigned, concerned residents of the Municipality of Meaford and neighbouring towns, call upon all levels of government, Municipal, Provincial and Federal to stop TC Energy from building a Pumped Power Storage Plant on the shores of Georgian Bay at the Army Base in Meaford Ontario.
Response by the Minister of Environment and Climate ChangeSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable STEVEN GUILBEAULTThe Impact Assessment Agency of Canada (IAAC) conducts federal impact assessments of major projects pursuant to the Impact Assessment Act (the IAA). The federal process for assessments include the assessment of positive and negative environmental, economic, health and social effects.The Agency understands that TC Energy’s proposed hydroelectric pumped-storage plant would be subject to the IAA. The Agency is awaiting the submission of an acceptable initial description of the project by the proponent.Assessments by the Agency involve consultation with the public, Indigenous peoples, federal authorities and all other interested participants, including provincial officials.Further information on the Agency is available online at https://www.canada.ca/en/impact-assessment-agency.html.Questions on the Agency’s process can be directed to the Agency’s Ontario Region office via e-mail at iaac.ontarioregion-regiondontario.aeic@canada.ca.  
Response by the Minister of National DefenceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Bryan MayNational Defence manages more than 2,000,000 hectares of land and over 20,000 buildings across Canada. As a custodian of Crown land, National Defence is responsible for considering third-party access to its real property upon request.Situated on 7,685 hectares of land next to Georgian Bay, the 4th Canadian Division Training Centre Meaford (4 CDTC) is a training facility for the Regular and Reserve Forces. TC Energy has proposed the construction of a hydroelectric facility in the area, and subsequently requested access to 200 hectares of National Defence’s land in Meaford. The electricity generated by the proposed hydroelectric facility would be sold to the Ontario power grid.In July 2021, National Defence signed an Agreement in Principle with TC Energy which determined that the project can be operationally accommodated at 4 CDTC subject to assurances that its construction and operation will not cause negative impacts on Canadian Armed Forces operations, and that all necessary provincial and federal assessments are completed. The Agreement In Principle allows TC Energy to pursue an Impact Assessment under the federal Impact Assessment Act. The Impact Assessment will evaluate a wide range of potential issues including environmental, health, social, and economic impacts and benefits, as well as potential impacts on Indigenous peoples.Consultation and engagement will continue as the project proceeds through further assessments and regulatory approvals.National Defence has undertaken the following steps as part of its decision making process:
  • Initial feasibility testing and review:
    • In August 2020, National Defence approved a temporary access agreement to allow TC Energy to complete its engineering and environmental feasibility testing and studies at 4 CDTC Meaford. This follows a temporary access agreement that National Defence issued to TC Energy in May 2019.
    • In June 2019 and July 2021, National Defence notified local Indigenous groups that the temporary access agreement may be extended for further study, and that a review of TC Energy’s testing results will be conducted as a part of National Defence’s decision making process.
  • Internal Assessment and Public Consultations:
    • From May 2019 to September 2020, National Defence consulted Indigenous groups, municipalities, the provincial government, and external stakeholders. These consultations included an online forum and participation at three TC Energy town halls. During these consultations, National Defence heard concerns regarding the possible impact on the environment, the economy, community safety, health, as well as the importance of the land and its historical ties to community members. The Impact Assessment Agency of Canada will assess and review these concerns under the Impact Assessment process.
    • From 2019 to 2021, National Defence conducted its own comprehensive internal assessment to determine the project’s potential impact on operational readiness, personnel training, the environment, and Indigenous groups. The assessment raised potential concerns regarding the impact of the project on training and operations conducted at 4 CDTC. National Defence will continue to assess and update these concerns as the project evolves, and as results from the Impact Assessment are received.
    • In July 2021, following National Defence’s internal assessment, the department signed an Agreement In Principle with TC Energy, allowing the company to proceed to an Impact Assessment.
National Defence anticipates that TC Energy will pursue Impact and Environmental Assessment processes with both the federal and provincial governments. Should these assessments be positive, TC Energy may then seek a licence for the project under the Dominion Water Power Act. The project will not move forward unless it is approved by provincial and federal regulatory agencies, and DND determines that the project will not negatively impact the conduct of operations and training at 4 CDTC Meaford.National Defence and TC Energy will continue consultation and engagement as the project proceeds through further assessments and regulatory approvals. The Government of Canada will continue to assess the project through the Impact Assessment Agency of Canada, as well as through relevant federal and provincial government stakeholders. The Department of National Defence will also begin an Environmental Effects Determination, as stipulated in the Impact Assessment Act, related to the proposed relocation of Base infrastructure. The Agreement in Principle commits TC Energy to pay all costs associated with this work.National Defence will continue to remain open and transparent as the department, Government of Canada, and TC Energy conduct these assessments, and will continue to provide updates, when available, at: http://Canada.ca/Meaford-energy-consultation 
Environmental protectionGeorgian BayRenewable energy and fuel
44th Parliament223Government response tabledMarch 25, 2022441-00163441-00163 (Environment)AlexRuffBruce—Grey—Owen SoundConservativeONFebruary 9, 2022March 25, 2022February 7, 2022Petition to the Member of Parliament for Bruce-Grey-Owen SoundWhereas:The negative impacts that TC Energy's project will have on our pristine water, our landscape, our community, our property values and our emotional well being must be addressed.We, the undersigned, concerned residents of the Municipality of Meaford and neighbouring towns, call upon all levels of government, Municipal, Provincial and Federal to stop TC Energy from building a Pumped Power Storage Plant on the shores of Georgian Bay at the Army Base in Meaford Ontario.
Response by the Minister of Environment and Climate ChangeSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Steven GuilbeaultThe Impact Assessment Agency of Canada conducts federal impact assessments of major projects pursuant to the Impact Assessment Act (IAA). The federal process for assessments include the assessment of positive and negative environmental, economic, health and social effects.The Agency understands that TC Energy’s proposed hydroelectric pumped-storage plant would be subject to the IAA. The Agency is awaiting the submission of an acceptable initial description of the project by the proponent.Assessments by the Agency involve consultation with the public, Indigenous peoples, federal authorities, and all other interested participants, including provincial officials.Further information on the Agency is available online at https://www.canada.ca/en/impact-assessment-agency.html. Questions on the Agency’s process can be directed to its Ontario Region office via email at iaac.ontarioregion-regiondontario.aeic@canada.ca. 
Response by the Minister of National DefenceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Bryan MayNational Defence manages more than 2,000,000 hectares of land and over 20,000 buildings across Canada. As a custodian of Crown land, National Defence is responsible for considering third-party access to its real property upon request.Situated on 7,685 hectares of land next to Georgian Bay, the 4th Canadian Division Training Centre Meaford (4 CDTC) is a training facility for the Regular and Reserve Forces. TC Energy has proposed the construction of a hydroelectric facility in the area, and subsequently requested access to 200 hectares of National Defence’s land in Meaford. The electricity generated by the proposed hydroelectric facility would be sold to the Ontario power grid.In July 2021, National Defence signed an Agreement in Principle with TC Energy which determined that the project can be operationally accommodated at 4 CDTC subject to assurances that its construction and operation will not cause negative impacts on Canadian Armed Forces operations, and that all necessary provincial and federal assessments are completed. The Agreement In Principle allows TC Energy to pursue an Impact Assessment under the federal Impact Assessment Act. The Impact Assessment will evaluate a wide range of potential issues including environmental, health, social, and economic impacts and benefits, as well as potential impacts on Indigenous peoples.Consultation and engagement will continue as the project proceeds through further assessments and regulatory approvals.National Defence has undertaken the following steps as part of its decision making process:
  • Initial feasibility testing and review:
    • In August 2020, National Defence approved a temporary access agreement to allow TC Energy to complete its engineering and environmental feasibility testing and studies at 4 CDTC Meaford. This follows a temporary access agreement that National Defence issued to TC Energy in May 2019.
    • In June 2019 and July 2021, National Defence notified local Indigenous groups that the temporary access agreement may be extended for further study, and that a review of TC Energy’s testing results will be conducted as a part of National Defence’s decision making process.
  • Internal Assessment and Public Consultations:
    • From May 2019 to September 2020, National Defence consulted Indigenous groups, municipalities, the provincial government, and external stakeholders. These consultations included an online forum and participation at three TC Energy town halls. During these consultations, National Defence heard concerns regarding the possible impact on the environment, the economy, community safety, health, as well as the importance of the land and its historical ties to community members. The Impact Assessment Agency of Canada will assess and review these concerns under the Impact Assessment process.
    • From 2019 to 2021, National Defence conducted its own comprehensive internal assessment to determine the project’s potential impact on operational readiness, personnel training, the environment, and Indigenous groups. The assessment raised potential concerns regarding the impact of the project on training and operations conducted at 4 CDTC. National Defence will continue to assess and update these concerns as the project evolves, and as results from the Impact Assessment are received.
    • In July 2021, following National Defence’s internal assessment, the department signed an Agreement In Principle with TC Energy, allowing the company to proceed to an Impact Assessment.
National Defence anticipates that TC Energy will pursue Impact and Environmental Assessment processes with both the federal and provincial governments. Should these assessments be positive, TC Energy may then seek a licence for the project under the Dominion Water Power Act. The project will not move forward unless it is approved by provincial and federal regulatory agencies, and DND determines that the project will not negatively impact the conduct of operations and training at 4 CDTC Meaford.National Defence and TC Energy will continue consultation and engagement as the project proceeds through further assessments and regulatory approvals. The Government of Canada will continue to assess the project through the Impact Assessment Agency of Canada, as well as through relevant federal and provincial government stakeholders. The Department of National Defence will also begin an Environmental Effects Determination, as stipulated in the Impact Assessment Act, related to the proposed relocation of Base infrastructure. The Agreement in Principle commits TC Energy to pay all costs associated with this work.National Defence will continue to remain open and transparent as the department, Government of Canada, and TC Energy conduct these assessments, and will continue to provide updates, when available, at: http://Canada.ca/Meaford-energy-consultation 
Environmental protectionGeorgian BayRenewable energy and fuel
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 31, 2022441-00045441-00045 (Environment)ElizabethMaySaanich—Gulf IslandsGreen PartyBCDecember 9, 2021January 31, 2022July 27, 2021PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLEDWhereas:
  • Irresponsible practices by industry and multi-national corporations have led to the destruction and denigration of much of Canada's waterways and watersheds;
  • Current laws do not sufficiently protect Canada's waterways and watersheds from such irresponsible practices; and
  • Protecting waterways and watersheds also protects Canada's forests, fisheries, land, and air.
We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada call upon the House of Commons in Parliament assembled to:
  • Update Canada's water laws to ensure that no industry or corporation takes precedence over the health of Canada's waterways and watersheds, and by extension the health of the country's people, species, and land; and
  • Ensure Canada's water laws are updated under the guidance of professionals and specialists in the field of water conservation.
Response by the Minister of Environment and Climate ChangeSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable STEVEN GUILBEAULTThe Government of Canada is committed to safeguarding our country’s freshwater resources for generations to come. No resource is more important to Canadians than fresh, clean water--our lives and livelihoods depend on it.Freshwater management in Canada is a shared responsibility between federal, provincial, territorial and Indigenous governments. The Government of Canada works cooperatively with other orders of government to leverage partnerships and incredible expertise that exists within Canada to safeguard freshwater resources. Below are some examples of collaborations:
  • Federal-provincial-territorial collaboration on water: The Canadian Council of Ministers of the Environment (CCME) is the intergovernmental forum in Canada for discussion and joint action on environmental issues of national concern. It is composed of environment ministers from the federal, provincial and territorial governments. CCME has established a Water Management Committee that works on delivering water activities that are of interest nationally. For example, the CCME develops Canadian Environmental Quality Guidelines to provide a scientific basis for making effective decisions regarding the protection of freshwater resources in Canada.
  • Protecting major watersheds: The Government of Canada has decades of experience undertaking watershed protection initiatives in collaboration with provincial governments, Indigenous communities and stakeholders. Canada is committed to working and collaborating with others to restore and protect our freshwater resources through arrangements such as the Canada-United States Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement, the Canada-Ontario Agreement on Great Lakes Water Quality and Ecosystem Health, the Canada-Quebec Agreement on the St. Lawrence, and the Canada-Manitoba Memorandum of Understanding Respecting Lake Winnipeg and the Lake Winnipeg Basin. In 2017, the Government of Canada invested $70.5 million to protect the Great Lakes and Lake Winnipeg Basin. Of this investment, $44.84 million over five years was provided to the Great Lakes Protection Initiative in order to take action to address the most significant environmental challenges affecting Great Lakes water quality and ecosystem health. This funding supports efforts to address priorities of reducing phosphorus loading to Lake Erie, assessing and enhancing the resilience of Great Lakes coastal wetlands, evaluating and identifying at-risk nearshore waters, reducing releases of harmful chemicals, and increasing public engagement through citizen science. A total of $25.7 million of the Budget 2017 investment was also provided to the Lake Winnipeg basin program. The Government has invested in a wide range of projects that focus on actions to reduce excessive nutrients like phosphorus from entering the lake, as well as projects that enhance collaboration throughout the basin, and that support Indigenous engagement on freshwater issues.
  • Supporting domestic and international water boards: Domestic inter-jurisdictional water boards have been established to focus on specific water issues that have implications for more than one province or territory. These boards include the Ottawa River Regulation Planning Board, Prairie Provinces Water Board, Mackenzie River Basin Board, and the Lake of the Woods Control Board. In addition, the Government of Canada supports 17 Canadian-United States water boards and committees through the International Joint Commission (IJC) by providing science and expert advice. The IJC prevents and resolves disputes between the United States and Canada regarding lake and river systems along the border (under the 1909 Boundary Water treaty).
  • Monitoring water quantity and quality. Environment and Climate Change Canada’s (ECCC) National Hydrological Service (NHS) is the primary operator for the hydrometric monitoring networks which is collaboratively managed and cost-shared with provinces and territories (approximately 2800 active monitoring stations). The NHS is also responsible for water management of international and domestic transboundary water in partnership with the IJC and the provinces and territories. In 2019, the Government of Canada invested $89.7 million to modernize the NHS to support earlier and more accurate information about freshwater resources. This investment will help to ensure the sustainability of the Government’s water-monitoring networks, which in turn will help prepare Canadians for water-related disasters like flooding and droughts. In addition, ECCC’s Water Quality Monitoring and Surveillance Program activities are accomplished in collaboration with provincial and territorial governments. The objectives of the Program are to disseminate timely information on water quality to the public, government agencies, industry and the scientific community. ECCC also oversees the Canadian Environmental Sustainability Indicators Program (CESI). The CESI Program provides freshwater data from federal, provincial and territorial governments to track Canada’s performance on key environmental sustainability issues including pressures on freshwater regional ecosystems, water quality and availability in Canadian rivers.
Canada’s federal legislative framework for freshwater management consists of several legislative instruments that provide the federal government with powers to address freshwater issues across the country, both directly and indirectly. As well, the provinces and territories have significant jurisdiction over water resources within their boundaries and play a core role regarding water management.Federal legislation for freshwater management addresses the key areas of federal jurisdiction. The management of cross-boundary water flows ensures water quantity issues are addressed, while pollution prevention provisions protect water quality in fish-bearing and migratory bird habitats. As well, in this area of shared jurisdiction, the federal legislative framework allows for cooperative collaboration on fresh water with provincial and territorial governments, Indigenous people and international partners.Pollution prevention is a fundamental element of the federal freshwater legislative framework. The Fisheries Act includes provisions prohibiting pollution that could be harmful to fish and other aquatic life. Regulations under the Fisheries Act imposes conditions, including effluent limits, on the release of deleterious substances and effluent into water and can include environmental effects monitoring requirements for facilities. Similarly, The Migratory Birds Convention Act, 1994, protects against pollution on land or in water that could be harmful to migratory birds. The Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999, is an important federal law aimed at preventing pollution and protecting the environment and human health. It authorizes action on a wide range of environmental and health risks that directly impact water resources including, for example, water pollution, toxic substances, and waste.In the Minister of the Environment and Climate Change`s mandate letter from the Prime Minister, water features prominently. The Minister has been asked, with the support of the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, to establish a Canada Water Agency (CWA) and implement a strengthened Freshwater Action Plan, including a historic investment to provide funding to protect and restore large lakes and river systems starting with the Great Lakes-St. Lawrence River System, Lake Simcoe, the Lake Winnipeg Basin, the Fraser River Basin and the Mackenzie River Basin. Following the establishment of the Agency, the Minister of Environment and Climate Change has also been asked to advance the modernization of the Canada Water Act to reflect Canada’s freshwater reality, including climate change and Indigenous rights.The federal government is currently developing options for the proposed Canada Water Agency. The identification of freshwater priorities and creation of the Agency has been the subject of engagement with Indigenous peoples, provincial and territorial governments, stakeholders, and the public. The Government of Canada released the Discussion Paper, Towards the Creation of a Canada Water Agency in December 2020 formally launching a public engagement process to seek feedback on the establishment of a new CWA. In January and February 2021, the federal government held a National Forum, six Regional Forums and expert workshops on freshwater science and data engaging over 2500 Canadians. Priorities highlighted in consultations included: climate adaptation, enhanced coordination/improved governance of federal freshwater activities, science, data, and advancing reconciliation with Indigenous peoples. Dedicated engagement and relationship building with First Nations, Inuit, and Métis on freshwater priorities and development of the CWA has begun and will be ongoing.  
Environmental protectionInland watersWatersheds
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 31, 2022441-00044441-00044 (Environment)RobMorrisonKootenay—ColumbiaConservativeBCDecember 7, 2021January 31, 2022December 2, 2021PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONSWe, the undersigned Canadians, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following: Whereas:
  • the impacts of climate change are accelerating in Canada and around the world;
  • Canada has endorsed the Paris Agreement to limit global temperature rise to well below 2 °C in order to avoid the most disastrous effects of climate change, yet greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions have failed to decline in Canada;
  • Canada's current GHG reduction targets are not consistent with doing our fair share to meet the global goals agreed upon in Paris to mitigate climate change;
  • our fossil fuel extraction industries are significant contributors to Canada's GHG emissions;
  • subsidizing fossil fuel production, export and expansion, including new pipelines, are not compatible with the stated goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions; and
  • the government's continued support of the fossil fuel industry, in spite of scientific evidence of the cumulative damage of emissions, puts our future in danger.
THEREFORE, your petitioners call upon the House of Commons to take urgent cooperative action to fulfill Canada's obligations under the Paris Agreement, through:
  • a just transition off of fossil fuel that leaves no-one behind;
  • eliminating federal fossil fuel subsidies; and
  • halting the expansion of fossil fuel production in Canada.
Response by the Minister of Environment and Climate ChangeSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable STEVEN GUILBEAULTOver the past six years, the Government of Canada has demonstrated its leadership on climate change and clean growth, at home and abroad. Canada invested more than $100 billion to address climate change since 2015.Canada established two significant climate plans: the 2016 Pan-Canadian Framework on Clean Growth and Climate Change and the 2020 strengthened climate plan entitled A Healthy Environment and a Healthy Economy with over 60 new federal measures. The strengthened climate plan is informed by more than four years of engagement with Indigenous peoples through distinction-based, senior bilateral tables on clean growth and climate change. Thanks to these measures, along with strengthened alignment with the United States, Canada is on a path to achieving significant emissions reduction by 2030.In July, Canada adopted an enhanced 2030 emissions reduction target of 40-45% below 2005 levels. Under the Canadian Net-Zero Emissions Accountability Act, Canada is committed to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, with a transparent and legally-binding process to guide implementation.To further illustrate our commitment, at COP26 Canada announced new measures:
    • a commitment to cap Canada’s oil and gas emissions at the pace and scale needed to achieve net-zero by 2050;
    • working with provinces, territories, industry, and other stakeholders so that Canada’s electricity grid achieves net-zero emissions by 2035;
    • working toward ending exports of thermal coal by no later than 2030; and,
    • signing onto the Global Methane Pledge, as well as pledging to reduce oil and gas methane emissions by at least 75% below 2012 levels by 2030.
Canada has also committed to phase out or rationalize inefficient fossil fuel subsidies. It has already taken actions to phase out or rationalize eight tax preferences supporting the fossil fuel sector. Addressing inefficient fossil fuel subsidies supports Canada’s efforts to take action on climate change and transition to a low-carbon economy.                                    
Response by the Minister of Natural ResourcesSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, P.C., M.P.The Government of Canada is committed to putting Canadian workers and communities first during the global transition to a low-carbon economy. Our Government will ensure that Canadian workers have the skills they need to take advantage of emerging opportunities during this drive toward a net-zero 2050 future.The path forward requires working with partners to develop and implement strategies to meet Canada’s commitments. In July 2021, Natural Resources Canada launched public consultations to develop Just Transition legislation. This outreach is intended to make sure the voices and concerns of communities and workers are at the core of regional and sectoral strategies.The federal government is reaching out to a broad range of stakeholders. Including, workers and labour organizations, industry, academia, non-governmental organizations, youth, and experts in skills, training, and diversity and inclusion. Provinces, territories and Indigenous organizations are also being consulted. A “what we heard” report will follow and will guide the proposed legislation.Workers in Canada’s traditional energy sectors will have a significant role to play in taking advantage of the economic opportunities presented by the global clean energy transition. Canada’s energy sector also made its own net-zero commitments, while investing in the development and deployment of emissions reduction technologies and increasing electrification. Some companies are embracing a hydrogen future, and that will open new markets for Canadian exporters.Furthermore, the federal government has committed to phase out or rationalize inefficient fossil fuel subsidies. It has already taken actions to phase out or rationalize eight tax preferences supporting the fossil fuel sector. Addressing subsidies supports Canada’s efforts to take action on climate change.
Environmental protectionFossil fuelsParis Agreement under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change
44th Parliament223Government response tabledJanuary 31, 2022441-00043441-00043 (Environment)RobMorrisonKootenay—ColumbiaConservativeBCDecember 7, 2021January 31, 2022December 2, 2021PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED We, the undersigned Canadians, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:Whereas: The impacts of climate change are accelerating in Canada and around the world; Canada has endorsed the Paris Agreement to limit global temperature rise to well below 2 °C in order to avoid the most disastrous effects of climate change, yet greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions have failed to decline in Canada; Canada's current GHG reduction targets are not consistent with doing our fair share to meet the global goals agreed upon in Paris to mitigate climate change; Our fossil fuel extraction industries are significant contributors to Canada's GHG emissions; Subsidizing fossil fuel production, export and expansion, including new pipelines, are not compatible with the stated goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions; and The government's continued support of the fossil fuel industry, in spite of scientific evidence of the cumulative damage of emissions, puts our future in danger. THEREFORE, your petitioners call upon the House of Commons to:
  • take urgent cooperative action to fulfill Canada's obligations under the Paris Agreement through a just transisition off fossil fuel that leaves no-one behind;
  • eliminate federal fossil fuel subsidies and redirect those investments into renewable energy systems and nature based solutions; and
  • halt the expansion of the fossil fuel industry in Canada.
Response by the Minister of Environment and Climate ChangeSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable STEVEN GUILBEAULTOver the past six years, the Government of Canada has demonstrated its leadership on climate change and clean growth, at home and abroad. Canada invested more than $100 billion to address climate change since 2015.Canada established two significant climate plans: the 2016 Pan-Canadian Framework on Clean Growth and Climate Change and the 2020 strengthened climate plan entitled A Healthy Environment and a Healthy Economy with over 60 new federal measures. The strengthened climate plan is informed by more than four years of engagement with Indigenous peoples through distinction-based, senior bilateral tables on clean growth and climate change. Thanks to these measures, along with strengthened alignment with the United States, Canada is on a path to achieving significant emissions reduction by 2030.In July, Canada adopted an enhanced 2030 emissions reduction target of 40-45% below 2005 levels. Under the Canadian Net-Zero Emissions Accountability Act, Canada is committed to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, with a transparent and legally-binding process to guide implementation.To further illustrate our commitment, at COP26 Canada announced new measures:
    • a commitment to cap Canada’s oil and gas emissions at the pace and scale needed to achieve net-zero by 2050;
    • working with provinces, territories, industry, and other stakeholders so that Canada’s electricity grid achieves net-zero emissions by 2035;
    • working toward ending exports of thermal coal by no later than 2030; and,
    • signing onto the Global Methane Pledge, as well as pledging to reduce oil and gas methane emissions by at least 75% below 2012 levels by 2030.
Canada has also committed to phase out or rationalize inefficient fossil fuel subsidies. It has already taken actions to phase out or rationalize eight tax preferences supporting the fossil fuel sector. Addressing inefficient fossil fuel subsidies supports Canada’s efforts to take action on climate change and transition to a low-carbon economy.  
Response by the Minister of Natural ResourcesSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, P.C., M.P.The Government of Canada is committed to putting Canadian workers and communities first during the global transition to a low-carbon economy. Our Government will ensure that Canadian workers have the skills they need to take advantage of emerging opportunities during this drive toward a net-zero 2050 future.The path forward requires working with partners to develop and implement strategies to meet Canada’s commitments. In July 2021, Natural Resources Canada launched public consultations to develop Just Transition legislation. This outreach is intended to make sure the voices and concerns of communities and workers are at the core of regional and sectoral strategies.The federal government is reaching out to a broad range of stakeholders. Including, workers and labour organizations, industry, academia, non-governmental organizations, youth, and experts in skills, training, and diversity and inclusion. Provinces, territories and Indigenous organizations are also being consulted. A “what we heard” report will follow and will guide the proposed legislation.Workers in Canada’s traditional energy sectors will have a significant role to play in taking advantage of the economic opportunities presented by the global clean energy transition. Canada’s energy sector also made its own net-zero commitments, while investing in the development and deployment of emissions reduction technologies and increasing electrification. Some companies are embracing a hydrogen future, and that will open new markets for Canadian exporters.Furthermore, the federal government has committed to phase out or rationalize inefficient fossil fuel subsidies. It has already taken actions to phase out or rationalize eight tax preferences supporting the fossil fuel sector. Addressing subsidies supports Canada’s efforts to take action on climate change.
Environmental protectionFossil fuelsParis Agreement under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change