2023 to 2027 Departmental Sustainable Development Strategy - Impact Assessment Agency of Canada

From: Impact Assessment Agency of Canada

Cat. No.: En104-24E-PDF
ISSN: 2817-3112

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Executive Summary
Section 1
- Introduction to the Departmental Sustainable Development Strategy
Section 2
- The Impact Assessment Agency of Canada’s Sustainable Development Vision
Section 3
- Listening to Canadians
  - What We Heard
  - What We Did
Section 4
- The Impact Assessment Agency of Canada’s Commitments
Section 5
- Integrating Sustainable Development

Executive Summary

In accordance with the Federal Sustainable Development Act (FSDA), the Minister of Environment and Climate Change tabled the 2022 to 2026 Federal Sustainable Development Strategy (FSDS) in Parliament on November 2, 2022. This FSDS presents the Government of Canada’s sustainable development goals and targets. For the first time, the goals of the FSDS align with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of the United Nations’ 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, thereby providing a balanced view of the environmental, social and economic dimensions of sustainable development.

In support of the FSDS, and as required by the FSDA, the Impact Assessment Agency of Canada (the Agency) has prepared a 2023 to 2027 Departmental Sustainable Development Strategy (DSDS) to identify how it will advance its FSDS commitments. The Agency has identified departmental actions that align with the priorities and issues raised during the public consultations period held for the FSDS, notably the importance of public engagement, Indigenous collaboration, and actions for the environment and on climate change.

As this document presents, through its implementation of the Impact Assessment Act (IAA), the Agency contributes to the FSDS as the lead federal organization for impact assessments, which support evidence-informed decision-making on major projects in support of sustainable development in Canada. These assessments inform project design, support meaningful engagement with Indigenous Peoples, the public, and stakeholders, and identify appropriate measures to mitigate anticipated adverse effects. In particular, assessments meaningfully consider the Indigenous Knowledge provided and the potential positive and adverse impacts on Indigenous Peoples and their rights throughout the assessment process, including at key decision points.

Through its implementation of the IAA, the Agency commits to supporting the FSDS goals and targets in its daily operations, and ensuring its activities and decisions include consideration of these goals and targets. Through its mandate and daily operations the Agency supports the following four FSDS goals:

Goal 10 – Reduced Inequalities: to advance reconciliation with First Nations, Inuit and Métis Communities, the Agency is implementing collaborative and co-management initiatives with Indigenous partners;
Goal 12 – Responsible Consumption and Production: in its day-to-day operations, the Agency integrates environmental considerations into its decision-making related to the procurement of goods and services;
Goal 13 – Climate Action: the Agency is implementing operational practices that support the Government of Canada’s commitment to achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions; and
Goal 16 – Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions: to contribute to the target “compliance with environmental laws and high-quality impact assessments”, the Agency is building capacity among Indigenous Peoples and the public to participate meaningfully throughout assessment processes to ensure evidence and Indigenous Knowledge is available to inform assessment-related decisions.

Section 1

Introduction to the Departmental Sustainable Development Strategy

The 2022 to 2026 Federal Sustainable Development Strategy (FSDS) presents the Government of Canada’s sustainable development goals and targets, as required by the Federal Sustainable Development Act (FSDA). This is the first FSDS framed using the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of the United Nations 2030 Agenda and provides a balanced view of the environmental, social, and economic dimensions of sustainable development.

In keeping with the purpose of the FSDA to make decision-making related to sustainable development more transparent and accountable to Parliament, the Impact Assessment Agency of Canada (the Agency) supports the goals laid out in the FSDS through the activities described in this Departmental Sustainable Development Strategy (DSDS).

The FSDA also sets out seven principles that must be considered in the development of both the FSDS and DSDS. These principles are considered and incorporated by the Agency into this DSDS.

To promote coordinated action on sustainable development across the Government of Canada, this DSDS integrates efforts to advance Canada’s implementation of its 2030 Agenda National Strategy, supported by targets and indicators from the United Nations’ Global Indicator Framework (GIF) and Statistics Canada’s Canadian Indicator Framework (CIF).

Section 2

The Impact Assessment Agency of Canada’s Sustainable Development Vision

The Government of Canada introduced environmental assessment processes in 1973, adopting environmental assessment as a key tool for informing decision-making and sound environmental stewardship. Building on this, the Government introduced the Canadian Environmental Assessment Act in 1992 and replaced this legislation in 2012 (Canadian Environmental Assessment Act, 2012 [CEAA 2012]). Most recently, in 2019, the Government replaced CEAA 2012 with the Impact Assessment Act (IAA).

The developments in the assessment of project impacts over the years reflect the government’s ongoing and deepening commitments to environmental stewardship and sustainability. These environmental and impact assessments support sustainable development by identifying opportunities to eliminate, reduce, or manage a project’s potential adverse effects and enhance potential benefits before a project is undertaken. Notably, under the IAA, sustainability is defined as “the ability to protect the environment, contribute to the social and economic well-being of the people of Canada and preserve their health in a manner that benefits present and future generations.” This is consistent with the expanded approach of the FSDS to align with the United Nations 2030 Agenda and its SDGs.

With the coming into force of the IAA in 2019, the Canadian Environmental Assessment Agency transformed into the Impact Assessment Agency of Canada (the Agency) with an expanded mandate and responsibilities. Under the IAA, the Agency is the lead federal organization responsible for conducting and administering impact assessment to determine the positive and negative environmental, economic, social, and health effects of designated projects. The Agency also became the Crown Consultation Coordinator for Indigenous consultation on designated projects under the IAA.

As the lead for some federal environmental assessments under CEAA 2012^Footnote 1 and all federal impact assessments of designated projects under the IAA, the Agency delivers high-quality environmental and impact assessments to inform decision-making on major projects in support of sustainable development in Canada. As the transition to impact assessment continues, environmental assessment projects started under CEAA 2012 continue and consider whether designated projects are likely to cause significant adverse environmental effects that fall within the legislative authority of Parliament. Under the IAA, impact assessments consider whether the adverse effects of designated projects that fall within the legislative authority of Parliament are in the public interest. More specifically, the IAA requires that the assessment of projects take into account the factors identified in section 22 of the IAA, including the positive and negative effects of a project’s activities, and that decisions take into account the following five public interest factors listed in section 63 of the IAA:

The extent to which the project contributes to sustainability;
The extent to which the adverse effects of a project are significant;
The implementation of mitigation measures that the decision-maker considers appropriate;
The impacts on the Indigenous Peoples of Canada; and
The extent to which the project contributes to or hinders the Government of Canada’s ability to meet its environmental obligations and its commitments related to climate change.

The potential impacts on Indigenous Peoples and their rights must be considered in impact assessments of designated projects, including at key decision points such as, whether an impact assessment is required, whether referral to a review panel is warranted, and whether the effects of a project within federal jurisdiction are in the public interest. Throughout the assessment process, the Agency must also consider the Indigenous Knowledge provided and demonstrate how it was considered.

By delivering its mandate and implementing the IAA, the Agency contributes to the following goals of the 2022 to 2026 FSDS and aligns with the United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development:

Goal 10 – Reduced Inequalities: to advance reconciliation with First Nations, Inuit and Métis Communities, the Agency is implementing collaborative and co-management initiatives with Indigenous partners;
Goal 12 – Responsible Consumption and Production: in its day-to-day operations, the Agency integrates environmental considerations into its decision-making related to the procurement of goods and services;
Goal 13 – Climate Action: the Agency is implementing operational practices that support the Government of Canada’s commitment to achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions; and
Goal 16 – Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions: to contribute to the target of “compliance with environmental laws and high-quality impact assessments”, the Agency is building capacity among Indigenous Peoples and the public to participate meaningfully throughout the assessment process, including by providing funding to support their participation in these processes, to ensure evidence and Indigenous Knowledge is available to inform assessment-related decisions.

Section 3

Listening to Canadians

As required by the Federal Sustainable Development Act, the Agency considered comments made during the public consultation period held from March 11 to July 9, 2022 on the draft 2022 to 2026 FSDS. During this period, Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) as lead for the FSDA received more than 700 comments from a variety of stakeholders, including: governments; Indigenous organizations; non-governmental organizations; academics; businesses; and individual Canadians. For additional information on these consultations and their results, consult the FSDS Public Consultation Report.

What We Heard

Many of the public consultation comments on the FSDS centered on actions about climate change as a top priority and the necessity to ensure all Canadians have access to clean water with an emphasis on the strong connections among social, economic, and environmental issues.

In relation to the Agency’s mandate, the FSDS public consultations specifically identified issues related to respect and protection of Indigenous rights, and, meaningful public engagement, particularly with Black, Indigenous, and People of Colour communities, and youth. These comments suggested that sustainability could be fostered by considering traditional Indigenous Knowledge alongside western science, acknowledging Indigenous land stewardship, and exploring holistic approaches for supporting and recognizing Indigenous rights and leadership.

Further, Canadians encouraged the Government of Canada to move beyond its legal duty to consult with Indigenous Peoples towards greater engagement and partnership at the nation-to-nation level. This includes the co-development of policies, legislation, and programs related to the environment and climate, and co-management of their implementation. This also aligns with commitments made under the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act (UNDA) to self-determination of Indigenous Peoples and collaboration in the stewardship and benefits of natural resources.

In addition, through these consultations, Canadians highlighted the importance of continuous improvement to engagement strategies, particularly for youth and marginalized communities such as Black, Indigenous, and People of Colour communities. For instance, efforts to increase accessibility and opportunities for participation were identified as an effective means of mitigating barriers to the engagement of diverse groups and building meaningful relationships with these communities. At the same time, concerns were raised about the potential burden of multiple consultations with some communities that could be addressed through better coordination of intra- and inter-departmental partnerships. The consultations also indicated that Indigenous communities should be consulted in ways that respect the wishes of the community.

What We Did

The Agency recognizes these issues and is addressing them through the departmental actions identified in Section 4. Indicators identified for each departmental action are also tracked through the Agency’s ongoing monitoring and periodic evaluation of its programs.

To support Goal 10 in advancing reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples, the Agency commits to ensuring meaningful engagement with Indigenous Peoples and considering their knowledge and perspectives in all phases of the federal assessment process as well as in the development of assessment-related policies and guidance. The Agency aims to build meaningful partnerships with Indigenous Peoples across Canada to support Indigenous stewardship and jurisdiction and empowering their leadership in impact assessment processes.

To support Goal 16 in promoting a fair and accessible justice system, the Agency commits to continuing to improve its engagement strategies, enhance opportunities, and provide for meaningful participation and engagement of diverse groups. This involves reducing financial barriers to participation and proactively seeking input from Indigenous communities, the public, and stakeholders throughout assessment processes, including in the post-decision phase.

In addition, through the way in which it carries out its mandate, the Agency in its daily operations responds to the overarching concerns from the public about the environment and climate change (Goal 12 and Goal 13).

Section 4

The Impact Assessment Agency of Canada’s Commitments

Goal 10: Advance Reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples and Take Action on Inequality

FSDS Context:

To support Goal 10, the Agency commits to “Advancing reconciliation with First Nations, Inuit and Métis Communities” through the implementation strategy to “co-manage natural resources, collaborate, and share benefits with Indigenous Peoples.”

As the Crown Consultation Coordinator for Indigenous consultations on designated projects under the IAA, the Agency is dedicated to implementing the commitments of the UNDA and building on Canada’s constitutional obligations respecting Indigenous Peoples and treaty rights.

The Truth and Reconciliation Commission Calls to Action inform the Agency’s work and its activities in support of the Government of Canada’s commitment to reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples. Through the implementation of the IAA, the Agency seeks to develop meaningful partnerships with Indigenous Peoples across Canada and empower Indigenous leadership in assessments.

In addition, the Agency works with its Indigenous Advisory Committee, comprised of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples who provide advice for the development of key policies and guidance to ensure that the unique rights, interests, and perspectives of Indigenous Peoples are acknowledged, affirmed, and implemented in impact assessment. Moreover, by considering Indigenous Knowledge in assessment processes, the Agency affirms respect for the relationships of Indigenous communities with the land, air, and water. Since this knowledge draws on information and experience from traditional and current uses of land and resources, consideration of it throughout assessment processes results in stronger assessments and better project outcomes.

FSDS target theme: Advancing reconciliation with First Nations, Inuit, and the Métis communities

FSDS target: Between 2023 and 2026, and every year on an ongoing basis, develop and table annual progress reports on implementing the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act (Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada)

The following table presents actions the Agency commits to undertake to support the FSDS target theme of “Advancing reconciliation with First Nations, Inuit, and the Métis communities”.

Implementation Strategy	Departmental Action	Performance Indicator Starting Point Target	How the Departmental Action contributes to the FSDS Goal and Target and, where applicable, to Canada’s 2030 Agenda National Strategy and SDGs
Implement the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act	Advance work to co-develop regulations and policies that support the implementation of Indigenous co-administration agreements, including through a national engagement process with rights-holders Program: Indigenous Relations and Engagement	Performance indicator: Percentage of Indigenous groups participating in the development of policy instruments, regulations and guidance documents that indicate the engagement was meaningful Starting point: To be determined in 2023–24 Target: 90% by March 31 of each fiscal year starting in 2024–25	Working towards agreements that could enable Indigenous governing bodies to take on certain powers, duties, or functions within the federal impact assessment process on specified lands will increase Indigenous leadership in IA and support equitable outcomes. Relevant targets or ambitions: CIF Ambition/Target: 10.1 Canadians live free of discrimination and inequalities are reduced CIF Indicator: None applicable GIF Target: 10.3 Ensure equal opportunity and reduce inequalities of outcomes, including by eliminating discriminatory laws, policies and practices and promoting appropriate legislation, policies, and action in this regard
Provide customized opportunities for Indigenous people for sharing and gathering information (e.g., community meetings, workshops, technical meetings, focus groups, etc.) Program: Indigenous Relations and Engagement	Performance indicator: Percentage of Indigenous groups participating in assessment-related engagement/consultation activities who agree they were engaged meaningfully in the assessment process Starting point: To be determined in 2023–24 Target: 90% by March 31 of each fiscal year starting in 2024–25	Conducting consultation activities with Indigenous groups entails providing customized opportunities for sharing and gathering information in ways that ensure Indigenous groups feel heard and that their perspectives are meaningfully considered. Relevant targets or ambitions: CIF Ambition/Target: 10.1 Canadians live free of discrimination and inequalities are reduced CIF Indicator: None applicable GIF Target: 10.2 By 2030, empower and promote the social, economic, and political inclusion of all, irrespective of age, sex, disability, race, ethnicity, origin, religion or economic or other status
Collaborate with Indigenous communities in the assessment of designated projects to identify and consider potential impacts on their rights throughout the assessment process, including the decision-making phase Program: Indigenous Relations and Engagement	Performance indicator: Percentage of Indigenous groups who agree that mitigation measures set out in decision statements effectively respect and protect the rights of Indigenous Peoples Starting point: Baseline to be established in 2023–24 Target: Positive trend over time from 2023–24 to 2026–27	Incorporating comments on potential conditions received from Indigenous groups into the potential conditions recommended for the Minister to integrate into the decision statement promotes respect for, and protection of, Indigenous rights. Relevant targets or ambitions: CIF Ambition/Target: 10.1 Canadians live free of discrimination and inequalities are reduced CIF Indicator: None applicable GIF Target: 10.3 Ensure equal opportunity and reduce inequalities of outcomes, including by eliminating discriminatory laws, policies and practices and promoting appropriate legislation, policies, and action in this regard

Implementation Strategy

Departmental Action

Performance Indicator
Starting Point
Target

How the Departmental Action contributes to the FSDS Goal and Target and, where applicable, to Canada’s 2030 Agenda National Strategy and SDGs

Implement the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act

Advance work to co-develop regulations and policies that support the implementation of Indigenous co-administration agreements, including through a national engagement process with rights-holders

Program: Indigenous Relations and Engagement

Performance indicator: Percentage of Indigenous groups participating in the development of policy instruments, regulations and guidance documents that indicate the engagement was meaningful

Starting point: To be determined in 2023–24

Target: 90% by March 31 of each fiscal year starting in 2024–25

Working towards agreements that could enable Indigenous governing bodies to take on certain powers, duties, or functions within the federal impact assessment process on specified lands will increase Indigenous leadership in IA and support equitable outcomes.

Relevant targets or ambitions:

CIF Ambition/Target: 10.1 Canadians live free of discrimination and inequalities are reduced

CIF Indicator: None applicable

GIF Target: 10.3 Ensure equal opportunity and reduce inequalities of outcomes, including by eliminating discriminatory laws, policies and practices and promoting appropriate legislation, policies, and action in this regard

Provide customized opportunities for Indigenous people for sharing and gathering information (e.g., community meetings, workshops, technical meetings, focus groups, etc.)

Program: Indigenous Relations and Engagement

Performance indicator: Percentage of Indigenous groups participating in assessment-related engagement/consultation activities who agree they were engaged meaningfully in the assessment process

Starting point: To be determined in 2023–24

Target: 90% by March 31 of each fiscal year starting in 2024–25

Conducting consultation activities with Indigenous groups entails providing customized opportunities for sharing and gathering information in ways that ensure Indigenous groups feel heard and that their perspectives are meaningfully considered.

Relevant targets or ambitions:

CIF Ambition/Target: 10.1 Canadians live free of discrimination and inequalities are reduced

CIF Indicator: None applicable

GIF Target: 10.2 By 2030, empower and promote the social, economic, and political inclusion of all, irrespective of age, sex, disability, race, ethnicity, origin, religion or economic or other status

Collaborate with Indigenous communities in the assessment of designated projects to identify and consider potential impacts on their rights throughout the assessment process, including the decision-making phase

Program: Indigenous Relations and Engagement

Performance indicator: Percentage of Indigenous groups who agree that mitigation measures set out in decision statements effectively respect and protect the rights of Indigenous Peoples

Starting point: Baseline to be established in 2023–24

Target: Positive trend over time from 2023–24 to 2026–27

Incorporating comments on potential conditions received from Indigenous groups into the potential conditions recommended for the Minister to integrate into the decision statement promotes respect for, and protection of, Indigenous rights.

Relevant targets or ambitions:

CIF Ambition/Target: 10.1 Canadians live free of discrimination and inequalities are reduced

CIF Indicator: None applicable

Implementation strategies supporting the goal

This section presents the implementation strategies that support the goal “Advance reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples and take action on inequality” but not a specific FSDS target.

Implementation Strategy	Departmental Action	Performance Indicator Starting Point Target	How the Departmental Action contributes to the FSDS Goal and Target and, where applicable, to Canada’s 2030 Agenda National Strategy and SDGs
Co-manage natural resources, collaborate, and share benefits with Indigenous Peoples	Ensure that Indigenous perspectives, concerns, and knowledge are considered in assessment-related decision-making Program: Indigenous Relations and Engagement	Performance indicator: Percentage of assessment reports provided to decision-makers that include how Indigenous Knowledge and perspectives were considered Starting point: To be determined in 2023–24 Target: 100% by March 31 of each fiscal year starting in 2024–25	Incorporating Indigenous perspectives into decision-making ensures that decision-makers are provided with the best possible advice and information on environmental, health, social, and economic effects to mitigate adverse impacts of designated projects. It also demonstrates the co-management of natural resources with Indigenous Peoples. Relevant targets or ambitions: CIF Ambition/Target: 10.1 Canadians live free of discrimination and inequalities are reduced CIF Indicator: None applicable GIF Target: 10.3 Ensure equal opportunity and reduce inequalities of outcomes, including by eliminating discriminatory laws, policies and practices and promoting appropriate legislation, policies, and action in this regard
Develop Indigenous Engagement and Partnership Plans, which are intended to reflect the participation objectives of identified Indigenous groups, engagement opportunities at each phase of the assessment process, and methods of engagement that align with the needs of communities Program: Indigenous Relations and Engagement	Performance indicator: Percentage of Indigenous groups who agree the Indigenous Engagement and Partnership Plan incorporates how they want to work with the Agency on the assessment Starting point: To be determined in 2023–24 Target: To be determined based on data collected in 2023–24	Developing Indigenous Engagement and Partnership Plans collaboratively with Indigenous communities that may be affected by a proposed project ensures that the Agency engages and consults with the appropriate Indigenous Peoples, which provides them with the opportunity to inform the Agency as to how they would like to participate and how they will work with the Agency throughout the impact assessment process. Relevant targets or ambitions: CIF Ambition/Target: Canadians live free of discrimination and inequalities are reduced CIF Indicator: None applicable GIF Target: 10.3 Ensure equal opportunity and reduce inequalities of outcome, including by eliminating discriminatory laws, policies and practices and promoting appropriate legislation, policies, and action in this regard
Partner and collaborate with Indigenous communities to build their confidence in the assessment process Program: Indigenous Relations and Engagement	Performance indicator: Percentage of Indigenous groups involved in assessments indicating they had sufficient opportunities to work in partnership/collaboratively in assessment processes Starting point: To be determined in 2023–24 Target: 60% by March 31 of each fiscal year starting in 2024–25	Building confidence among Indigenous groups in the transparency of and certainty about the assessment process, through engagement and collaboration, enables Indigenous groups to play a meaningful role in all or part of project assessments and supports trust to share Indigenous Knowledge to inform assessment-related decisions. This also enables Indigenous groups to co-manage projects with the Agency and share their benefits. Relevant targets or ambitions: CIF Ambition/Target: Canadians live free of discrimination and inequalities are reduced CIF Indicator: None applicable GIF Target: 10.3 Ensure equal opportunity and reduce inequalities of outcome, including by eliminating discriminatory laws, policies and practices and promoting appropriate legislation, policies, and action in this regard

Implementation Strategy

Departmental Action

Performance Indicator
Starting Point
Target

How the Departmental Action contributes to the FSDS Goal and Target and, where applicable, to Canada’s 2030 Agenda National Strategy and SDGs

Co-manage natural resources, collaborate, and share benefits with Indigenous Peoples

Ensure that Indigenous perspectives, concerns, and knowledge are considered in assessment-related decision-making

Program: Indigenous Relations and Engagement

Performance indicator: Percentage of assessment reports provided to decision-makers that include how Indigenous Knowledge and perspectives were considered

Starting point: To be determined in 2023–24

Target: 100% by March 31 of each fiscal year starting in 2024–25

Incorporating Indigenous perspectives into decision-making ensures that decision-makers are provided with the best possible advice and information on environmental, health, social, and economic effects to mitigate adverse impacts of designated projects. It also demonstrates the co-management of natural resources with Indigenous Peoples.

Relevant targets or ambitions:

CIF Ambition/Target: 10.1 Canadians live free of discrimination and inequalities are reduced

CIF Indicator: None applicable

Develop Indigenous Engagement and Partnership Plans, which are intended to reflect the participation objectives of identified Indigenous groups, engagement opportunities at each phase of the assessment process, and methods of engagement that align with the needs of communities

Program: Indigenous Relations and Engagement

Performance indicator: Percentage of Indigenous groups who agree the Indigenous Engagement and Partnership Plan incorporates how they want to work with the Agency on the assessment

Starting point: To be determined in 2023–24

Target: To be determined based on data collected in 2023–24

Developing Indigenous Engagement and Partnership Plans collaboratively with Indigenous communities that may be affected by a proposed project ensures that the Agency engages and consults with the appropriate Indigenous Peoples, which provides them with the opportunity to inform the Agency as to how they would like to participate and how they will work with the Agency throughout the impact assessment process.

Relevant targets or ambitions:

CIF Ambition/Target: Canadians live free of discrimination and inequalities are reduced

CIF Indicator: None applicable

GIF Target: 10.3 Ensure equal opportunity and reduce inequalities of outcome, including by eliminating discriminatory laws, policies and practices and promoting appropriate legislation, policies, and action in this regard

Partner and collaborate with Indigenous communities to build their confidence in the assessment process

Program: Indigenous Relations and Engagement

Performance indicator:

Percentage of Indigenous groups involved in assessments indicating they had sufficient opportunities to work in partnership/collaboratively in assessment processes

Starting point: To be determined in 2023–24

Target: 60% by March 31 of each fiscal year starting in 2024–25

Building confidence among Indigenous groups in the transparency of and certainty about the assessment process, through engagement and collaboration, enables Indigenous groups to play a meaningful role in all or part of project assessments and supports trust to share Indigenous Knowledge to inform assessment-related decisions. This also enables Indigenous groups to co-manage projects with the Agency and share their benefits.

Relevant targets or ambitions:

CIF Ambition/Target: Canadians live free of discrimination and inequalities are reduced

CIF Indicator: None applicable

Goal 12: Reduce Waste and Transition to Zero-Emission Vehicles

FSDS Context:

To support Goal 12, the Agency contributes to the FSDS target theme “Federal Leadership on Responsible Consumption” through the implementation strategy to “strengthen green procurement criteria.”

The Agency adheres to the Government of Canada’s Policy on Green Procurement, with the commitments of the Greening Government Strategy integrated into its own procurement processes. These processes provide incentives for suppliers to adopt a science-based target in line with the Paris Agreement and disclose their greenhouse gas emissions and environmental performance information.

To ensure awareness and inclusion of green considerations in procurement activities, the Agency provides training to executives, managers, and supervisors, as well as specialists in procurement and materiel management functions. This green procurement training supports sustainable purchases by acquisition cardholders and requirements for procurement processes.

FSDS target theme: Federal Leadership on Responsible Consumption

FSDS target: The Government of Canada’s procurement of goods and services will be net-zero emissions by 2050, to aid the transition to a net-zero, circular economy (All Ministers)

Implementation Strategy	Departmental Action	Performance Indicator Starting Point Target	How the Departmental Action contributes to the FSDS Goal and Target and, where applicable, to Canada’s 2030 Agenda National Strategy and SDGs
Strengthen green procurement criteria	Incorporate environmental considerations into procurement management processes and controls Program: Internal Services	Performance indicator: Percentage of the Agency’s procurement processes* that include environmental considerations and criteria * This refers to sole source or competitive processes that do not use Public Services and Procurement Canada’s Standing Offers or Supply Arrangements. Starting point: 90% in 2022–23 Target: 95% by March 31 of each fiscal year starting in 2023–24 (and continued improvement onward; the remaining 5% is out of the Agency’s control)	Procurement processes use established Public Services and Procurement Canada mandatory commodity tools that incorporate environmental considerations. In addition, as part of its procurement strategy, the Agency requires all competitive or non-procurement processes to include environmental considerations. Inclusion of these considerations contributes to reduced environmental impacts and motivates suppliers to reduce the environmental impact of their supply chain. Relevant targets or ambitions: CIF Ambition/Target: 12.2 Canadians consume in a sustainable manner. CIF Indicator: 12.2.1 Proportion of businesses that adopted selected environmental protection activities and management practices GIF Target: 12.7 Promote public procurement practices that are sustainable, in accordance with national policies and priorities
Ensure executives, managers and supervisors, and specialists in procurement and materiel management functions have received green procurement training Program: Internal Services	Performance indicator: Percentage of executives, managers and supervisors, and specialists in procurement and materiel management functions who have completed green procurement training Starting point: To be determined in 2024–25 Target: 100% by March 31, 2026	Providing training for executives, managers and supervisors, and specialists in procurement and materiel management functions encourages increased acquisition of environmentally preferable goods and services, and ensures environmental considerations are incorporated into purchasing decisions. It is also expected to motivate suppliers to green their goods, services, and supply chain. Relevant targets or ambitions: CIF Ambition/Target: 12.2 Canadians consume in a sustainable manner CIF Indicator: 12.2.1 Proportion of businesses that adopted selected environmental protection activities and management practices GIF Target: 12.7 Promote public procurement practices that are sustainable, in accordance with national policies and priorities

Implementation Strategy

Departmental Action

Performance Indicator
Starting Point
Target

How the Departmental Action contributes to the FSDS Goal and Target and, where applicable, to Canada’s 2030 Agenda National Strategy and SDGs

Strengthen green procurement criteria

Incorporate environmental considerations into procurement management processes and controls

Program: Internal Services

Performance indicator: Percentage of the Agency’s procurement processes* that include environmental considerations and criteria

* This refers to sole source or competitive processes that do not use Public Services and Procurement Canada’s Standing Offers or Supply Arrangements.

Starting point: 90% in 2022–23

Target: 95% by March 31 of each fiscal year starting in 2023–24 (and continued improvement onward; the remaining 5% is out of the Agency’s control)

Procurement processes use established Public Services and Procurement Canada mandatory commodity tools that incorporate environmental considerations. In addition, as part of its procurement strategy, the Agency requires all competitive or non-procurement processes to include environmental considerations. Inclusion of these considerations contributes to reduced environmental impacts and motivates suppliers to reduce the environmental impact of their supply chain.

Relevant targets or ambitions:

CIF Ambition/Target: 12.2 Canadians consume in a sustainable manner.

CIF Indicator: 12.2.1 Proportion of businesses that adopted selected environmental protection activities and management practices

GIF Target: 12.7 Promote public procurement practices that are sustainable, in accordance with national policies and priorities

Ensure executives, managers and supervisors, and specialists in procurement and materiel management functions have received green procurement training

Program: Internal Services

Performance indicator: Percentage of executives, managers and supervisors, and specialists in procurement and materiel management functions who have completed green procurement training

Starting point: To be determined in 2024–25

Target: 100% by March 31, 2026

Providing training for executives, managers and supervisors, and specialists in procurement and materiel management functions encourages increased acquisition of environmentally preferable goods and services, and ensures environmental considerations are incorporated into purchasing decisions. It is also expected to motivate suppliers to green their goods, services, and supply chain.

Relevant targets or ambitions:

CIF Ambition/Target: 12.2 Canadians consume in a sustainable manner

CIF Indicator: 12.2.1 Proportion of businesses that adopted selected environmental protection activities and management practices

GIF Target: 12.7 Promote public procurement practices that are sustainable, in accordance with national policies and priorities

Goal 13: Take Action on Climate Change and its Impacts

FSDS Context:

To support Goal 13, the Agency contributes to the target theme “Federal Leadership on Greenhouse Gas Emissions Reductions and Climate Resilience” through its implementation strategies related to travel and materiel management.

The Agency promotes the reduction of business travel in support of Government of Canada commitment to achieving net-zero emissions, and purchases carbon offsets to compensate for emissions resulting from any travel necessary for operational requirements to meet legislated responsibilities.

In its day-to-day operations, the Agency is continuing its commitment to reduce and reuse office equipment (including computers) and furniture, as well as to assess associated lifecycle costs and environmental impacts. The Agency is developing its internal capacity to support ongoing sustainable operations.

FSDS target theme: Climate Change Mitigation and Adaption

FSDS target: Achieve 40 to 45% greenhouse gas emission reductions below 2005 levels by 2030, and achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050 (Minister of Environment and Climate Change supported by all other Ministers)

Implementation Strategy	Departmental Action	Performance Indicator Starting Point Target	How the Departmental Action contributes to the FSDS Goal and Target and, where applicable, to Canada’s 2030 Agenda National Strategy and SDGs
Continue to implement Canada’s climate plans and actions	Reducing and reusing materials and factoring in lifecycle costs in procurement are environmental considerations (e.g., end-of-life disposal) taken into account through the Government of Canada’s Policy on Green Procurement and implemented across the Agency Program: Internal Services	Performance indicator: Percentage of materials* reduced or reused per year using the appropriate method (e.g., GC Surplus and Computers for Schools) Furniture items (bookshelves, storage cabinets, tables, chairs, ergonomic desks, and keyboard trays) and IT hardware (laptops, monitors, and mobile phones) Starting point:* To be determined in 2023–24 Target: Target to be set in 2024–25 based on data from 2023–24	Implementing the Policy on Green Procurement is expected to result in more environmentally responsible planning, acquisition, use, and disposal practices across the organization. Relevant targets or ambitions: CIF Ambition/Target: 13.1 Canadians reduce their greenhouse gas emissions. CIF Indicator: 13.1.1 Greenhouse gas emissions GIF Target: 13.2 Integrate climate change measures into national policies, strategies, and planning
Implement the Canadian Net-Zero Emissions Accountability Act	Requiring proponents in all Tailored Impact Statement Guidelines* to submit plans to achieve net-zero by 2050. The Impact Statement must include a credible plan that describes the mitigation measures that will be taken to minimize greenhouse gas emissions throughout all phases of the project, and achieve net-zero by 2050. Program:* Assessment Administration, Conduct, and Monitoring	Performance indicator: Number of impact assessments for which a net-zero plan is provided by the proponent Starting point: To be determined in 2023–24 Target: 100% for assessments conducted under the IAA by March 31, 2027 and ongoing	This requirement would advance Canada’s goals of becoming net-zero by 2050 by demonstrating effective action on climate change and minimizing greenhouse gas emissions. This requirement could also support emerging markets such as renewable energy and clean technology. Relevant targets or ambitions: CIF Ambition/Target: 13.1 Canadians reduce their greenhouse gas emissions CIF Indicator: 13.1.1 Greenhouse gas emissions GIF Target: 13.2 Integrate climate change measures into national policies, strategies and planning

Implementation Strategy

Departmental Action

Performance Indicator
Starting Point
Target

How the Departmental Action contributes to the FSDS Goal and Target and, where applicable, to Canada’s 2030 Agenda National Strategy and SDGs

Continue to implement Canada’s climate plans and actions

Reducing and reusing materials and factoring in lifecycle costs in procurement are environmental considerations (e.g., end-of-life disposal) taken into account through the Government of Canada’s Policy on Green Procurement and implemented across the Agency

Program: Internal Services

Performance indicator: Percentage of materials* reduced or reused per year using the appropriate method (e.g., GC Surplus and Computers for Schools)

*Furniture items (bookshelves, storage cabinets, tables, chairs, ergonomic desks, and keyboard trays) and IT hardware (laptops, monitors, and mobile phones)

Starting point: To be determined in 2023–24

Target: Target to be set in 2024–25 based on data from 2023–24

Implementing the Policy on Green Procurement is expected to result in more environmentally responsible planning, acquisition, use, and disposal practices across the organization.

Relevant targets or ambitions:

CIF Ambition/Target: 13.1 Canadians reduce their greenhouse gas emissions.

CIF Indicator: 13.1.1 Greenhouse gas emissions

GIF Target: 13.2 Integrate climate change measures into national policies, strategies, and planning

Implement the Canadian Net-Zero Emissions Accountability Act

Requiring proponents in all Tailored Impact Statement Guidelines* to submit plans to achieve net-zero by 2050.

*The Impact Statement must include a credible plan that describes the mitigation measures that will be taken to minimize greenhouse gas emissions throughout all phases of the project, and achieve net-zero by 2050.

Program: Assessment Administration, Conduct, and Monitoring

Performance indicator: Number of impact assessments for which a net-zero plan is provided by the proponent

Starting point: To be determined in 2023–24

Target: 100% for assessments conducted under the IAA by March 31, 2027 and ongoing

This requirement would advance Canada’s goals of becoming net-zero by 2050 by demonstrating effective action on climate change and minimizing greenhouse gas emissions. This requirement could also support emerging markets such as renewable energy and clean technology.

Relevant targets or ambitions:

CIF Ambition/Target: 13.1 Canadians reduce their greenhouse gas emissions

CIF Indicator: 13.1.1 Greenhouse gas emissions

GIF Target: 13.2 Integrate climate change measures into national policies, strategies and planning

FSDS target theme: Federal Leadership on Greenhouse Gas Emissions Reductions and Climate Resilience

FSDS target: The Government of Canada will transition to net-zero carbon operations for facilities and conventional fleets by 2050 (All Ministers)

Implementation Strategy	Departmental Action	Performance Indicator Starting Point Target	How the Departmental Action contributes to the FSDS Goal and Target and, where applicable, to Canada’s 2030 Agenda National Strategy and SDGs
Implement the Greening Government Strategy through measures that reduce greenhouse gas emissions, improve climate resilience, and green the government’s overall operations	Support Agency-wide contributions toward net-zero emissions (i.e., the carbon-neutral by 2050 objective) by promoting the reduction of business travel for public servants and non-public servants, encouraging the use of online facilitation where feasible, developing a hybrid work environment (online and in-person), and hosting virtual engagement sessions and meetings Program: Internal Services	Performance indicator: Percentage reduction in business travel for public servants and non-public servants Starting point: 2.5% of the operating budget in 2019–20 (pre-covid-19 level) Target: 2% in operating budget by March 31, 2024 with continued reductions to be identified thereafter	Reducing business travel and promoting online engagement sessions and meetings reduce greenhouse gas emissions from travel and enhance sustainable consumption. Relevant targets or ambitions: CIF Ambition/Target: 13.1 Canadians reduce their greenhouse gas emissions. CIF Indicator: 13.1.1 Greenhouse gas emissions GIF Target: 13.3 Improve education, awareness-raising and human and institutional capacity on climate change mitigation, adaptation, impact reduction and early warning
Where travel is necessary for operational requirements, purchase offset carbon emissions caused by discretionary business travel by Agency employees to mitigate the Agency’s negative impact on the environment Program: Internal Services	Performance indicator: Ratio of carbon offsets purchased in relation to business travel for Agency employees* Contractors will be added at future date, once a methodology is determined for contractors. Starting point:* 90% for 2022–23 (Agency employees only) Target: 95% by 2024–2025 and 100% by 2025–26	Each time Agency staff travel, their emissions are calculated and then “offset” by an equivalent compensatory investment into clean and renewable energy projects, including safe drinking water, wind energy, solar power, recycling, and composting. This initiative mitigates the Agency’s carbon emissions and lessens its environmental footprint. Relevant targets or ambitions: CIF Ambition/Target: 13.1 Canadians reduce their greenhouse gas emissions. CIF Indicator: 13.1.1 Greenhouse gas emissions GIF Target: 13.2 Integrate climate change measures into national policies, strategies, and planning

Implementation Strategy

Departmental Action

Performance Indicator
Starting Point
Target

How the Departmental Action contributes to the FSDS Goal and Target and, where applicable, to Canada’s 2030 Agenda National Strategy and SDGs

Implement the Greening Government Strategy through measures that reduce greenhouse gas emissions, improve climate resilience, and green the government’s overall operations

Support Agency-wide contributions toward net-zero emissions (i.e., the carbon-neutral by 2050 objective) by promoting the reduction of business travel for public servants and non-public servants, encouraging the use of online facilitation where feasible, developing a hybrid work environment (online and in-person), and hosting virtual engagement sessions and meetings

Program: Internal Services

Performance indicator: Percentage reduction in business travel for public servants and non-public servants

Starting point: 2.5% of the operating budget in 2019–20 (pre-covid-19 level)

Target: 2% in operating budget by March 31, 2024 with continued reductions to be identified thereafter

Reducing business travel and promoting online engagement sessions and meetings reduce greenhouse gas emissions from travel and enhance sustainable consumption.

Relevant targets or ambitions:

CIF Ambition/Target: 13.1 Canadians reduce their greenhouse gas emissions.

CIF Indicator: 13.1.1 Greenhouse gas emissions

GIF Target: 13.3 Improve education, awareness-raising and human and institutional capacity on climate change mitigation, adaptation, impact reduction and early warning

Where travel is necessary for operational requirements, purchase offset carbon emissions caused by discretionary business travel by Agency employees to mitigate the Agency’s negative impact on the environment

Program: Internal Services

Performance indicator: Ratio of carbon offsets purchased in relation to business travel for Agency employees*

*Contractors will be added at future date, once a methodology is determined for contractors.

Starting point: 90% for 2022–23 (Agency employees only)

Target: 95% by 2024–2025 and 100% by 2025–26

Each time Agency staff travel, their emissions are calculated and then “offset” by an equivalent compensatory investment into clean and renewable energy projects, including safe drinking water, wind energy, solar power, recycling, and composting. This initiative mitigates the Agency’s carbon emissions and lessens its environmental footprint.

Relevant targets or ambitions:

CIF Ambition/Target: 13.1 Canadians reduce their greenhouse gas emissions.

CIF Indicator: 13.1.1 Greenhouse gas emissions

GIF Target: 13.2 Integrate climate change measures into national policies, strategies, and planning

Goal 16: Promote a Fair and Accessible Justice System, Enforce Environmental Laws, and Manage Impacts

FSDS Context:

To support Goal 16, the Agency commits to making progress on the Theme “Compliance with environmental laws and high-quality impact assessments” through a range of implementation strategies, as described in the table below.

By delivering high-quality impact assessments, the Agency ensures the Minister of Environment and Climate Change, or the Governor in Council, has the required evidence and Indigenous Knowledge to make informed decisions about major natural resource and infrastructure projects within federal jurisdiction.

Throughout the assessment process, the Agency proactively seeks Indigenous, public, and stakeholder input, with an emphasis on considering Indigenous Knowledge and perspectives alongside western science. In addition, the Agency provides funding to Indigenous Peoples and the public to facilitate meaningful participation in assessment processes.

Further, to increase transparency in the federal assessment process, the Agency publishes project records and assessment data on the Canadian Impact Assessment Registry (the Registry). This Registry also enables Indigenous Peoples and the public to submit input through the Registry, thereby providing an additional way to participate in public consultation periods held throughout assessment processes.

FSDS target theme: Compliance with Environmental Laws and High-Quality Impact Assessments

Implementation strategies supporting the goal

This section is for implementation strategies that support the goal “Promote a fair and accessible justice system, enforce environmental laws, and manage impacts” but not a specific FSDS target.

Implementation Strategy	Departmental Action	Performance Indicator Starting Point Target	How the Departmental Action contributes to the FSDS Goal and Target and, where applicable, to Canada’s 2030 Agenda National Strategy and SDGs
Foster research to support high-quality impact assessments	Support research related to impact assessments through the Agency’s Research Program, including partnering with individual researchers and organizations to expand the impact assessment research community and encourage the dissemination of research related to impact assessment Program: Assessment Administration, Conduct, and Monitoring	Performance indicator: Percentage of stakeholders that are aware of new research who indicate that the research has expanded their knowledge base related to assessments Starting point: To be determined in 2024–25 Target: 70% by March 31, 2029 and every five fiscal years thereafter	The Agency’s Research Program is designed to further the practice of assessments by providing funding to researchers or subject matter experts to produce research that supports high-quality assessments, establishes research networks, and builds partnerships. Funding and contract recipients produce research that is accessible to impact assessment practitioners within the Agency as well as the public. This increases the knowledge base related to assessment and informs the Agency guidance and operational documents that support the conduct of high-quality assessments. Relevant targets or ambitions: CIF Ambition/Target: 16.7 Canadians are supported by effective, accountable, and transparent institutions CIF Indicator: 16.7.1 Proportion of the population with high levels of confidence in selected institutions GIF Target: 16.10 Ensure public access to information and protect fundamental freedoms, in accordance with national legislation and international agreements
Implement monitoring, inspection, and enforcement activities	Conduct inspections of designated projects to verify compliance with the IAA and decision statements issued under it. Program: Assessment Administration, Conduct, and Monitoring	Performance indicator: Percentage of active projects that have been inspected, overall, and by type of inspection (onsite, offsite) Starting point: To be determined in 2023–24 Target: 100% by March 31 of each fiscal year starting in 2024–25	Conducting onsite and offsite inspections includes responding to complaints, as well as reviewing reports, implementation schedules, and plans submitted by the proponent to the Agency. These activities encourage, promote, and verify compliance with the IAA, Decision Statements, and regulations, and help the Agency determine appropriate responses to situations involving non-compliance. Relevant targets or ambitions: CIF Ambition/Target: 16.7 Canadians are supported by effective, accountable, and transparent institutions CIF Indicator: 16.7.1 Proportion of the population with high levels of confidence in selected institutions GIF Target: 16.6 Develop effective, accountable, and transparent institutions at all levels
Review project-specific follow-up programs to verify the accuracy of predictions made in project assessments, determine the effectiveness of mitigation measures, identify whether unanticipated effects are occurring, and facilitate suitable responses to emerging issues through monitoring committees and adaptive management Program: Assessment Administration, Conduct, and Monitoring	Performance indicator: Percentage of follow-up programs of designated projects that proceed for which follow-up results submitted to the Agency indicate that mitigation measures have a high or moderate effectiveness status Starting point: To be determined in 2024–25 Target: 90% by March 31 of each fiscal year starting in 2025–26	Determining the effectiveness of a mitigation measure through a follow-up program helps eliminate, reduce, or control the potential adverse effects of a designated project and provides measures to adaptively manage any damage to the environment through replacement, restoration, compensation, or other means Relevant targets or ambitions: CIF Ambition/Target: 16.7 Canadians are supported by effective, accountable, and transparent institutions CIF Indicator: 16.7.1 Proportion of the population with high levels of confidence in selected institutions GIF Target: 16.6 Develop effective, accountable, and transparent institutions at all levels
Meaningfully consult and accommodate Indigenous Peoples and consider Indigenous Knowledge in impact assessment and regulatory processes	Deliver the Indigenous Capacity Support Program, providing funding to Indigenous groups and Indigenous organizations to support the development of local and regional Indigenous impact assessment knowledge and capacity. This knowledge and capacity will ensure Indigenous Peoples can more effectively participate in or lead some or all a project’s assessment. It also provides the knowledge and capacity for them to participate in regional assessment processes, policy engagement, and other activities related to the IAA. Program: Indigenous Relations and Engagement	Performance indicator: Percentage of Indigenous Capacity Support Program partners who indicate that the eligible activities provided sufficient knowledge and skills to the Indigenous groups to enable them to engage in the assessment process Starting point: To be determined in 2024–25 Target: 80% by March 31 of each fiscal year starting in 2025–26	Providing funding to support the development of impact or regional assessment knowledge and capacity of Indigenous groups helps to improve the Agency’s relationship with Indigenous Peoples. Throughout assessment processes, the Agency engages and consults with Indigenous Peoples to assess potential adverse effects of projects, identify the concerns of Indigenous Peoples, and incorporate these concerns into all phases of federal assessments. Building their capacity through the Indigenous Capacity Support Program ensures they have the knowledge, skills, and abilities to provide input into assessments and policy development processes. This will help empower Indigenous Peoples to play a meaningful role in all or part of project assessments. Relevant targets or ambitions: CIF Ambition/Target: 16.7 Canadians are supported by effective, accountable, and transparent institutions CIF Indicator: 16.7.1 Proportion of the population with high levels of confidence in selected institutions GIF Target: 16.7 Ensure responsive, inclusive, participatory, and representative decision-making at all levels
Provide the public and Indigenous Peoples with a voice in impact assessment and regulatory processes	Deliver the Participant Funding Program, providing funding to support Indigenous Peoples and the public to facilitate their participation in assessment processes (including project, regional, and strategic assessments). Funding support is provided to Indigenous Peoples and members of the public who can provide relevant knowledge or expertise and value-added information related to a project, or who have a direct local interest, community, or Indigenous Knowledge and interest in the project’s impact on treaty lands, settlement lands or traditional territories or related claims and rights. Program: Assessment Administration, Conduct, and Monitoring	Performance indicator: Percentage of Indigenous Peoples receiving Participant Funding Program funding that indicate their participation in the assessment process was meaningful Starting point: To be determined in 2024–25 Target: 90% by March 31 of each fiscal year starting in 2025–26	Supporting the participation of Indigenous Peoples and the public in federal assessment processes through the Participant Funding Program contributes to an open and balanced assessment process that strengthens the quality and credibility of federal assessments. By having better access to information from Indigenous Peoples and the public through consultation and engagement sessions, Indigenous Peoples and the public can participate in the assessment process in a manner that is meaningful to both the Agency and the recipients. Supporting this participation through funding helps reduce any financial barriers that could limit the ability of Indigenous Peoples or the public to participate in these engagement and consultation sessions. Relevant targets or ambitions: CIF Ambition/Target: 16.7 Canadians are supported by effective, accountable, and transparent institutions CIF Indicator: 16.7.1 Proportion of the population with high levels of confidence in selected institutions GIF Target: 16.7 Ensure responsive, inclusive, participatory, and representative decision-making at all levels
Deliver the Policy Dialogue Program, providing funding to stakeholders (individuals and not-for-profit organizations), Indigenous organizations, and Indigenous communities to support them in providing external advice to the Agency and participating in the development of policies, methodologies, tools, and practices related to federal impact assessment, regional assessment, and strategic assessment. Program: Assessment Administration, Conduct, and Monitoring	Performance indicator: Percentage of stakeholders and Indigenous groups receiving Policy Dialogue Program funding that indicate that the collaboration and engagement opportunities provided them with the ability to provide advice and feedback Starting point: To be determined in 2024–25 Target: 75% by March 31 of each fiscal year starting in 2025–26	The Policy Dialogue Program is designed to make assessment policies, guidelines, tools, practices, and assessments more effective through Indigenous, stakeholder and Advisory Committee engagement. The Program aims to foster meaningful participation in policy development by capturing and considering the information provided by Indigenous Peoples and stakeholders. Relevant targets or ambitions: CIF Ambition/Target: 16.7 Canadians are supported by effective, accountable, and transparent institutions CIF Indicator: 16.7.1 Proportion of the population with high levels of confidence in selected institutions GIF Target: 16.7 Ensure responsive, inclusive, participatory, and representative decision-making at all levels
Support fair, transparent and predictable impact assessment, and regulatory processes	Prepare the Tailored Impact Statement Guidelines to guide the proponent’s preparation of the Impact Statement and the focus of the impact assessment. Program: Assessment Administration, Conduct, and Monitoring	Performance indicator: Percentage of stakeholders and Indigenous groups indicating that the Tailored Impact Statement Guidelines were effectively tailored to increase the efficiency and effectiveness of the project assessment Starting point: To be determined in 2023–24 Target: 70% by March 31 of each fiscal year starting in 2024–25	Indigenous Peoples, lifecycle regulators, jurisdictions, federal authorities, and the public inform the Tailored Impact Statement Guidelines Template through consultations and engagements. These Guidelines then set out a comprehensive list of requirements specific to the individual project assessment that the proponent must follow to complete a detailed Impact Statement. The proponent’s Impact Statement must describe the project’s contribution to sustainability by considering how to maximize the overall positive benefits, and minimize the potential adverse effects, of the designated project. Relevant targets or ambitions: CIF Ambition/Target: 16.7 Canadians are supported by effective, accountable, and transparent institutions CIF Indicator: 16.7.1 Proportion of the population with high levels of confidence in selected institutions GIF Target: 16.6 Develop effective, accountable, and transparent institutions at all levels
Administer and maintain the Canadian Impact Assessment Registry (the Registry), including managing the online public engagement feature of the Registry. Program: Assessment Administration, Conduct, and Monitoring	Performance indicator: Percentage/ amount of time Registry users can access the Registry in a timely manner* The Registry is designed to be available on the internet 24/7. It is available on demand or upon request to enable users to participate meaningfully in the impact assessment process. Starting point:* 99% in 2022–23 Target: 100% by March 31 of each fiscal year starting in 2023–24	Ensuring public access to scientific and other impact assessment information in the Registry increases the transparency and accessibility of information received and generated throughout the assessment process. Making information available increases the understanding of Indigenous Peoples and the public and provides another way to participate in the assessment process. Relevant targets or ambitions: CIF Ambition/Target: 16.7 Canadians are supported by effective, accountable, and transparent institutions CIF Indicator: 16.7.1 Proportion of the population with high levels of confidence in selected institutions GIF Target: 16.6 Develop effective, accountable, and transparent institutions at all levels
Consider the perspectives, input, and information received from Indigenous Peoples and the public when identifying issues, assessing impacts, identifying mitigation measures to limit the potential adverse effects of the project, and decision-making. Program: Assessment Administration, Conduct, and Monitoring	Performance indicator: Percentage of stakeholders and Indigenous groups participating in assessments who report a high level of confidence in the transparency of the assessment process Starting point: To be determined in 2023–24 Target: 70% by March 31 of each fiscal year starting in 2024–25	Providing opportunities for Indigenous Peoples and the public to participate in assessment processes ensures that their input, views, and perspectives are available to inform all phases of the assessment process. This leads to better-informed assessment outcomes and contributes to improved confidence in the assessment process. Relevant targets or ambitions: CIF Ambition/Target: 16.7 Canadians are supported by effective, accountable, and transparent institutions CIF Indicator: 16.7.1 Proportion of the population with high levels of confidence in selected institutions GIF Target: 16.6 Develop effective, accountable and transparent institutions at all levels

Implementation Strategy

Departmental Action

Performance Indicator
Starting Point
Target

How the Departmental Action contributes to the FSDS Goal and Target and, where applicable, to Canada’s 2030 Agenda National Strategy and SDGs

Foster research to support high-quality impact assessments

Support research related to impact assessments through the Agency’s Research Program, including partnering with individual researchers and organizations to expand the impact assessment research community and encourage the dissemination of research related to impact assessment

Program: Assessment Administration, Conduct, and Monitoring

Performance indicator: Percentage of stakeholders that are aware of new research who indicate that the research has expanded their knowledge base related to assessments

Starting point: To be determined in 2024–25

Target: 70% by March 31, 2029 and every five fiscal years thereafter

The Agency’s Research Program is designed to further the practice of assessments by providing funding to researchers or subject matter experts to produce research that supports high-quality assessments, establishes research networks, and builds partnerships. Funding and contract recipients produce research that is accessible to impact assessment practitioners within the Agency as well as the public. This increases the knowledge base related to assessment and informs the Agency guidance and operational documents that support the conduct of high-quality assessments.

Relevant targets or ambitions:

CIF Ambition/Target: 16.7 Canadians are supported by effective, accountable, and transparent institutions

CIF Indicator: 16.7.1 Proportion of the population with high levels of confidence in selected institutions

GIF Target: 16.10 Ensure public access to information and protect fundamental freedoms, in accordance with national legislation and international agreements

Implement monitoring, inspection, and enforcement activities

Conduct inspections of designated projects to verify compliance with the IAA and decision statements issued under it.

Program: Assessment Administration, Conduct, and Monitoring

Performance indicator: Percentage of active projects that have been inspected, overall, and by type of inspection (onsite, offsite)

Starting point: To be determined in 2023–24

Target: 100% by March 31 of each fiscal year starting in 2024–25

Conducting onsite and offsite inspections includes responding to complaints, as well as reviewing reports, implementation schedules, and plans submitted by the proponent to the Agency. These activities encourage, promote, and verify compliance with the IAA, Decision Statements, and regulations, and help the Agency determine appropriate responses to situations involving non-compliance.

Relevant targets or ambitions:

CIF Ambition/Target: 16.7 Canadians are supported by effective, accountable, and transparent institutions

CIF Indicator: 16.7.1 Proportion of the population with high levels of confidence in selected institutions

GIF Target: 16.6 Develop effective, accountable, and transparent institutions at all levels

Review project-specific follow-up programs to verify the accuracy of predictions made in project assessments, determine the effectiveness of mitigation measures, identify whether unanticipated effects are occurring, and facilitate suitable responses to emerging issues through monitoring committees and adaptive management

Program: Assessment Administration, Conduct, and Monitoring

Performance indicator: Percentage of follow-up programs of designated projects that proceed for which follow-up results submitted to the Agency indicate that mitigation measures have a high or moderate effectiveness status

Starting point: To be determined in 2024–25

Target: 90% by March 31 of each fiscal year starting in 2025–26

Determining the effectiveness of a mitigation measure through a follow-up program helps eliminate, reduce, or control the potential adverse effects of a designated project and provides measures to adaptively manage any damage to the environment through replacement, restoration, compensation, or other means

Relevant targets or ambitions:

CIF Ambition/Target: 16.7 Canadians are supported by effective, accountable, and transparent institutions

CIF Indicator: 16.7.1 Proportion of the population with high levels of confidence in selected institutions

GIF Target: 16.6 Develop effective, accountable, and transparent institutions at all levels

Meaningfully consult and accommodate Indigenous Peoples and consider Indigenous Knowledge in impact assessment and regulatory processes

Deliver the Indigenous Capacity Support Program, providing funding to Indigenous groups and Indigenous organizations to support the development of local and regional Indigenous impact assessment knowledge and capacity. This knowledge and capacity will ensure Indigenous Peoples can more effectively participate in or lead some or all a project’s assessment. It also provides the knowledge and capacity for them to participate in regional assessment processes, policy engagement, and other activities related to the IAA.

Program: Indigenous Relations and Engagement

Performance indicator: Percentage of Indigenous Capacity Support Program partners who indicate that the eligible activities provided sufficient knowledge and skills to the Indigenous groups to enable them to engage in the assessment process

Starting point: To be determined in 2024–25

Target: 80% by March 31 of each fiscal year starting in 2025–26

Providing funding to support the development of impact or regional assessment knowledge and capacity of Indigenous groups helps to improve the Agency’s relationship with Indigenous Peoples. Throughout assessment processes, the Agency engages and consults with Indigenous Peoples to assess potential adverse effects of projects, identify the concerns of Indigenous Peoples, and incorporate these concerns into all phases of federal assessments. Building their capacity through the Indigenous Capacity Support Program ensures they have the knowledge, skills, and abilities to provide input into assessments and policy development processes. This will help empower Indigenous Peoples to play a meaningful role in all or part of project assessments.

Relevant targets or ambitions:

CIF Ambition/Target: 16.7 Canadians are supported by effective, accountable, and transparent institutions

CIF Indicator: 16.7.1 Proportion of the population with high levels of confidence in selected institutions

GIF Target: 16.7 Ensure responsive, inclusive, participatory, and representative decision-making at all levels

Provide the public and Indigenous Peoples with a voice in impact assessment and regulatory processes

Deliver the Participant Funding Program, providing funding to support Indigenous Peoples and the public to facilitate their participation in assessment processes (including project, regional, and strategic assessments). Funding support is provided to Indigenous Peoples and members of the public who can provide relevant knowledge or expertise and value-added information related to a project, or who have a direct local interest, community, or Indigenous Knowledge and interest in the project’s impact on treaty lands, settlement lands or traditional territories or related claims and rights.

Program: Assessment Administration, Conduct, and Monitoring

Performance indicator: Percentage of Indigenous Peoples receiving Participant Funding Program funding that indicate their participation in the assessment process was meaningful

Starting point: To be determined in 2024–25

Target: 90% by March 31 of each fiscal year starting in 2025–26

Supporting the participation of Indigenous Peoples and the public in federal assessment processes through the Participant Funding Program contributes to an open and balanced assessment process that strengthens the quality and credibility of federal assessments. By having better access to information from Indigenous Peoples and the public through consultation and engagement sessions, Indigenous Peoples and the public can participate in the assessment process in a manner that is meaningful to both the Agency and the recipients. Supporting this participation through funding helps reduce any financial barriers that could limit the ability of Indigenous Peoples or the public to participate in these engagement and consultation sessions.

Relevant targets or ambitions:

CIF Ambition/Target: 16.7 Canadians are supported by effective, accountable, and transparent institutions

CIF Indicator: 16.7.1 Proportion of the population with high levels of confidence in selected institutions

GIF Target: 16.7 Ensure responsive, inclusive, participatory, and representative decision-making at all levels

Deliver the Policy Dialogue Program, providing funding to stakeholders (individuals and not-for-profit organizations), Indigenous organizations, and Indigenous communities to support them in providing external advice to the Agency and participating in the development of policies, methodologies, tools, and practices related to federal impact assessment, regional assessment, and strategic assessment.

Program: Assessment Administration, Conduct, and Monitoring

Performance indicator: Percentage of stakeholders and Indigenous groups receiving Policy Dialogue Program funding that indicate that the collaboration and engagement opportunities provided them with the ability to provide advice and feedback

Starting point: To be determined in 2024–25

Target: 75% by March 31 of each fiscal year starting in 2025–26

The Policy Dialogue Program is designed to make assessment policies, guidelines, tools, practices, and assessments more effective through Indigenous, stakeholder and Advisory Committee engagement. The Program aims to foster meaningful participation in policy development by capturing and considering the information provided by Indigenous Peoples and stakeholders.

Relevant targets or ambitions:

CIF Ambition/Target: 16.7 Canadians are supported by effective, accountable, and transparent institutions

CIF Indicator: 16.7.1 Proportion of the population with high levels of confidence in selected institutions

GIF Target: 16.7 Ensure responsive, inclusive, participatory, and representative decision-making at all levels

Support fair, transparent and predictable impact assessment, and regulatory processes

Prepare the Tailored Impact Statement Guidelines to guide the proponent’s preparation of the Impact Statement and the focus of the impact assessment.

Program: Assessment Administration, Conduct, and Monitoring

Performance indicator: Percentage of stakeholders and Indigenous groups indicating that the Tailored Impact Statement Guidelines were effectively tailored to increase the efficiency and effectiveness of the project assessment

Starting point: To be determined in 2023–24

Target: 70% by March 31 of each fiscal year starting in 2024–25

Indigenous Peoples, lifecycle regulators, jurisdictions, federal authorities, and the public inform the Tailored Impact Statement Guidelines Template through consultations and engagements. These Guidelines then set out a comprehensive list of requirements specific to the individual project assessment that the proponent must follow to complete a detailed Impact Statement. The proponent’s Impact Statement must describe the project’s contribution to sustainability by considering how to maximize the overall positive benefits, and minimize the potential adverse effects, of the designated project.

Relevant targets or ambitions:

CIF Ambition/Target: 16.7 Canadians are supported by effective, accountable, and transparent institutions

CIF Indicator: 16.7.1 Proportion of the population with high levels of confidence in selected institutions

GIF Target: 16.6 Develop effective, accountable, and transparent institutions at all levels

Administer and maintain the Canadian Impact Assessment Registry (the Registry), including managing the online public engagement feature of the Registry.

Program: Assessment Administration, Conduct, and Monitoring

Performance indicator: Percentage/ amount of time Registry users can access the Registry in a timely manner*

*The Registry is designed to be available on the internet 24/7. It is available on demand or upon request to enable users to participate meaningfully in the impact assessment process.

Starting point: 99% in 2022–23

Target: 100% by March 31 of each fiscal year starting in 2023–24

Ensuring public access to scientific and other impact assessment information in the Registry increases the transparency and accessibility of information received and generated throughout the assessment process. Making information available increases the understanding of Indigenous Peoples and the public and provides another way to participate in the assessment process.

Relevant targets or ambitions:

CIF Ambition/Target: 16.7 Canadians are supported by effective, accountable, and transparent institutions

CIF Indicator: 16.7.1 Proportion of the population with high levels of confidence in selected institutions

GIF Target: 16.6 Develop effective, accountable, and transparent institutions at all levels

Consider the perspectives, input, and information received from Indigenous Peoples and the public when identifying issues, assessing impacts, identifying mitigation measures to limit the potential adverse effects of the project, and decision-making.

Program: Assessment Administration, Conduct, and Monitoring

Performance indicator: Percentage of stakeholders and Indigenous groups participating in assessments who report a high level of confidence in the transparency of the assessment process

Starting point: To be determined in 2023–24

Target: 70% by March 31 of each fiscal year starting in 2024–25

Providing opportunities for Indigenous Peoples and the public to participate in assessment processes ensures that their input, views, and perspectives are available to inform all phases of the assessment process. This leads to better-informed assessment outcomes and contributes to improved confidence in the assessment process.

Relevant targets or ambitions:

CIF Ambition/Target: 16.7 Canadians are supported by effective, accountable, and transparent institutions

CIF Indicator: 16.7.1 Proportion of the population with high levels of confidence in selected institutions

GIF Target: 16.6 Develop effective, accountable and transparent institutions at all levels

Section 5

Integrating Sustainable Development

As Section 4 shows, the Agency contributes to the sustainability objectives of the Government of Canada by delivering its mandate to implement the IAA. High-quality environmental and impact assessment processes and operations support forward thinking and encourage the use of innovative approaches and technologies. This contributes to Canada’s competitiveness in the natural resources sector.

The Agency’s processes for implementing the IAA foster public trust in government decision-making by requiring that a rationale for decisions be provided, and scientific evidence and Indigenous Knowledge be publicly available for all assessments. It makes this information accessible to Canadians through the Agency’s Registry on an ongoing basis for all assessments to increase transparency of assessment processes and project decisions.

The Agency continues to ensure that its decisions related to policies, plans and programs for the Agency include consideration of FSDS goals and targets. As required, the Agency also applies Strategic Environmental Assessment to ensure a policy, plan or program proposal includes an analysis of the impacts of the given proposal on the environment, including on relevant FSDS goals and targets.

As part of its daily operations, the Agency commits to considering FSDS goals and targets in its internal processes. It continues to increase its use of virtual tools for engagement and consultation sessions, and purchases carbon offsets when there is no alternative to business travel. Where offices are updated, landfills are avoided as much as possible by reusing, repurposing, or recycling computer equipment and office furniture. The Agency also continues to build the awareness of employees who have decision-making responsibilities about how to better support greening government strategies in their work (e.g., in the purchase of supplies and services).

Within the Agency, internal information sessions for employees raise awareness about emerging sustainable development issues, studies, and initiatives. In its external communications, the Agency continues to inform Canadians about federal assessment processes (including project, regional, and strategic assessments) and how these support a more sustainable future for Canada.

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Date modified:: 2023-12-19

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2023 to 2027 Departmental Sustainable Development Strategy - Impact Assessment Agency of Canada

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Executive Summary

Section 1

Introduction to the Departmental Sustainable Development Strategy

Section 2

The Impact Assessment Agency of Canada’s Sustainable Development Vision

Section 3

Listening to Canadians

What We Heard

What We Did

Section 4

The Impact Assessment Agency of Canada’s Commitments

Goal 10: Advance Reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples and Take Action on Inequality

Goal 12: Reduce Waste and Transition to Zero-Emission Vehicles

Goal 13: Take Action on Climate Change and its Impacts

Goal 16: Promote a Fair and Accessible Justice System, Enforce Environmental Laws, and Manage Impacts

Section 5

Integrating Sustainable Development

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