Summary: Protecting and conserving our natural heritage, predicting weather and environmental conditions, preventing and managing pollution, promoting clean growth and a sustainable environment for present and future generations.

Mandate and Role: Who They Are and What They Do

Environment and Climate Change Canada serves as the lead federal department responsible for addressing a diverse array of environmental concerns in Canada. The department employs a multifaceted approach to tackle these issues, encompassing various strategies such as policy development, regulatory enforcement, scientific research, and engagement with key stakeholders.

Key Functions and Responsibilities:

1. Preservation and Enhancement of Natural Environment: Environment and Climate Change Canada is tasked with preserving and enhancing the quality of Canada's natural environment, including water, air, and soil quality. This involves coordinating relevant policies and programs across the federal government to ensure comprehensive environmental protection measures.
2. Management of Renewable Resources: The department oversees the management of renewable resources, including migratory birds and other non-domestic flora and fauna. This responsibility involves conservation efforts aimed at sustaining biodiversity and ecosystem health.
3. Meteorology: Environment and Climate Change Canada plays a crucial role in meteorology, providing weather forecasting services and monitoring climate conditions to help Canadians make informed decisions regarding weather-related risks and opportunities.
4. Enforcement of Environmental Regulations: As per the Department of the Environment Act, the department is responsible for enforcing rules and regulations related to environmental protection. This includes ensuring compliance with legislation such as the Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999 (CEPA 1999), the Fisheries Act, and other relevant statutes.

Legislative Framework:

• The department operates within a legislative framework that includes various acts and regulations aimed at safeguarding the environment and promoting sustainable development. Key legislation includes CEPA 1999, the Federal Sustainable Development Act, the Species at Risk Act, and the Migratory Birds Convention Act, 1994.
• Additionally, Environment and Climate Change Canada collaborates with partner agencies such as the Canadian Environmental Assessment Agency and Parks Canada to achieve common environmental goals.

Interdepartmental Collaboration:

• The Minister of Environment and Climate Change shares responsibilities with other federal departments in delivering on specific mandates. For instance, the department collaborates with Transport Canada, Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada, and Natural Resources Canada on matters related to the Arctic Waters Pollution Prevention Act.
• Other areas of shared responsibility include the Canada Oil and Gas Operations Act (with Natural Resources Canada) and the Emergency Management Act (with Public Safety Canada).