Supplementary Information Tables
Departmental Sustainable Development Strategy
3. Departmental performance by FSDS goal
Context for the FSDS goal: Low-Carbon Government: The Government of Canada leads by example by making its operations low-carbon
DFO is committed to transitioning to low-carbon, climate resilient, and green operations. The Department will continue to work with the Centre for Greening Government at the Treasury Board of Canada Secretariat towards the Greening Government goal. DFO will incorporate low carbon and climate resilient considerations into departmental decision-making and daily operations. Additionally, the Department will continue to explore opportunities for clean energy and efficiency upgrade projects, which will further support the transition to a low carbon government.
| FSDS target(s) | FSDS contributing action(s) | Corresponding departmental action(s) | Starting point(s) Performance indicator(s) Target(s) |
Results achieved | Contribution by each departmental result to the FSDS goal and target and UN SDG |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Reduce greenhouse gas emissions from federal government buildings and fleets by 40% below 2005 levels by 2030, with an aspiration to achieve it by 2025. | Improve the energy efficiency of our buildings / operations. | Replace old marine communications and traffic services and aids to navigation power generation equipment, with cleaner, low-carbon energy solutions. | GHG emissions from facilities in fiscal year 2005–06 (base year): = 34.82 ktCO2e.Footnote1 GHG emissions from facilities in fiscal year 2016-17 = 21.20 ktCO2e. Percentage (%) change in GHG emissions from facilities from fiscal year 2005-06 to fiscal year 2016–17 = 38.4%. |
GHG emissions from facilities in fiscal year 2019-20 = 22.34 ktCO2e. Percentage (%) change in GHG emissions from facilities from fiscal year 2005-06 to fiscal year 2019-20 = 35.9%. The Department replaced the following equipment with cleaner, low-carbon energy solutions:
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FSDS: The successful completion of several solar panel and energy efficient generator projects has directly contributed to the Government’s of Canada’s Low Carbon goals. The overall reduction in GHG emissions by 35.9% has brought the department significantly closer to the interim goal of reducing GHG emissions by 40% by 2030. SDG: 13 – Climate Action (13.2) |
| Consider opportunities to implement building automation and commissioning for new construction or major renovation / upgrade, during project proposal and planning phase. | An analysis of Tier 1 (Major Facilities) DFO sites / buildings was performed to identify potential assets that would benefit from building automation or commissioning. However, given the age and condition of the buildings within the portfolio, as well as the cost of automation systems, further guidance documents should be developed to determine long-term viability, acceptable payback period, level of benefit / efficiencies, and regional capacity for implementing and maintaining these systems in the short-to-midterm. The next step is to secure a source of funding for initial assessment studies to identify potential candidate buildings and/or sites. |
FSDS: Long-term implementation of building automation will maximize energy savings and emissions reductions to help achieve the 2030 interim target. SDG: 13 – Climate Action (13.2) |
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| Continue to develop an approach for building operator training in DFO-owned buildings, to ensure that appropriate personnel receive training in industry-certified, best practices of maximizing energy efficiency and conservation measures. | The Department ran a pilot based on the International Facility Managers Association (IMFA) Facility Management Professional (FMP) certification. The training was delivered through Algonquin College – four DFO staff across multiple regions completed the first of four modules for the certification. Post-training, DFO was advised that the program is undergoing a restructure/update. Further analysis of multiple options is ongoing to determine how best to proceed with the certification training. | FSDS: By properly equipping building operators with effective training, DFO can realize emissions savings by implementing energy conservation measures and best practices. This way, staff are best equipped to adapt and efficiently manage DFO buildings according to on-site considerations. SDG: 13 – Climate Action (13.2) |
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| Review, update, and integrate environmental considerations into corporate governing frameworks including but not limited to policies, programs and practices. | New policies, programs, and practices incorporate environmental considerations aimed at reducing GHG emissions where feasible. DFO’s asbestos abatement program remains ongoing; replacing remaining underground fuel tanks; restricting the purchase and use of single-use plastics; and, implementing GC Workplace and teleworking protocols. | FSDS: These initiatives will reduce emissions generated from inefficient and outdated processes. For example, restricting single-use plastics will minimize DFO’s contribution to ocean waste and reduce emissions generated by producing these harmful single-use plastics. Adopting GC workplace and teleworking protocols will also help to realize emissions and cost savings as a result of reduced commuting. SDG: 13 – Climate Action (13.2) |
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| Implement accommodation projects to increase population density and promote effective space utilization. | An inventory of space and regional accommodation strategies are being developed to facilitate identification of further potential accommodation projects to densify the Department’s footprint. Several densification projects have also been completed across the country and others are in various stages of implementation. As of March 31, 2020, space optimization/densification projects to promote effective space utilization have been completed across some regions, including the Canadian Coast Guard (Coast Guard) Base in St. John’s and a few areas within the Bedford Institute of Oceanography (BIO). Other projects are in the planning stage such as the Freshwater Institute in Winnipeg and the Van Steenburg Building in BIO. |
FSDS: Promoting the GC Workplace initiative, which includes the concepts of unassigned seating and teleworking, contributes to the FSDS as these initiatives are linked to carbon reduction. Optimization projects can limit portfolio and footprint expansion. The implementation of new technology and the promotion of alternative working arrangements through GC Workplace will also reduce commuting required to complete departmental operations, as well as associated greenhouse gas emissions. SDG: 13 – Climate Action (13.2) |
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| Adopt updated National Energy Code for Buildings for new construction and major renovations projects as well as review programs, assets, facilities, and base building equipment to identify / inventory sources of departmental real property greenhouse gas emissions and quantify climate change impacts and vulnerabilities. | DFO has adopted the updated National Energy Code for Buildings, where feasible, for new construction and major renovations. Additionally, environmental and sustainability best practices are considered by regional partners for all major renovations and new construction. | FSDS: Adopting the updated National Energy Code for Buildings will help reduce emissions from on-site operations and processes. Implementing best management practices will also help increase efficiency and minimize overall emissions from DFO buildings. SDG: 13 – Climate Action (13.2) |
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| Continue Fisheries and Oceans Canada’s commitment to achieve a high level of environmental performance for new construction, major renovations, and existing building projects, by using industry-recognized assessment and verification tools. | The Institute of Ocean Sciences achieved Building Owners and Managers Association (BOMA) Building Environmental Standards certification in 2017-18, and the Bedford Institute of Oceanography received BOMA Silver certification in 2018-19. Southside Base (St. John’s, NL) is seeking Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Gold certification with a target date of fiscal year 2020-21. |
FSDS: A Gold LEED certification is an internationally accredited certification for a building which ensures it complies with rigorous energy efficiency metrics and notably greenhouse gas emissions reduction. This departmental action is consistent with the FSDS greening government interim goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions from federal government facilities and fleets by 40% by 2030. Targeting and achieving industry standard certifications on environmental performance will reduce long-term asset emissions and facilitate efficient operation of on-site program activities. SDG: 13 – Climate Action (13.2) |
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| Undertake energy audits at custodial facilities to determine the current state of energy consumption and to identify further opportunities for energy conservation measures. Compile, inventory and evaluate the recommendations of the energy audits. | Regional initiatives are underway to conduct energy audits on prioritized DFO assets. The central compilation and data collection of these energy audits has been delayed to FY 2021-2022, pending the development of a management framework. The resulting management framework will inform on opportunities for implementing energy conservation measures. Additionally, DFO is developing a Carbon Neutral Portfolio Strategy by March 31, 2021 to support long-term, informed management of various assets, and identify further opportunities for energy conservation measures. |
FSDS: Centralization of existing energy audit information into a database will help DFO make informed decisions on implementing energy efficient projects on assets that need them the most. SDG: 13 – Climate Action (13.2) |
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| Develop a work plan for clean energy infrastructure implementation opportunities for identified departmental sites, prioritizing by emissions, specifically aiming to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from heating and cooling needs. | Renewable energy considerations are currently being included in DFO’s energy audits for buildings. Additionally, sustainability projects and opportunities to reduce GHG emissions are detailed in individual Building Management Plans for all Tier 1 sites. These projects and opportunities are advanced based on funding availability, overall benefit, and Return on Investment (ROI) period. Additionally, DFO is developing a Carbon Neutral Portfolio Strategy by March 31, 2021 to support long-term, informed management of various assets and identify further opportunities for energy conservation measures. |
FSDS: These actions will encourage the implementation of energy-efficient and renewable technologies on DFO assets for long-term emissions reductions of site operations. SDG: 13 – Climate Action (13.2) |
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| Develop an overarching, evergreen Climate Risks and Vulnerabilities Identification Framework, focused on identifying short and long-term climate change risks and vulnerabilities associated with sites across Canada. | Funding has been secured, and plans have been developed to undertake several climate risk and vulnerability assessments at DFO sites. The Canso Canal Risk and Vulnerability project is an example that is currently underway with a targeted completion date of March 31, 2021. The results and lessons learned from these risk assessments will be instrumental in establishing climate risk and vulnerability assessments for other Tier 1 sites. |
FSDS: Identification of potential risks and vulnerabilities will allow DFO to plan for long-term, efficient and effective management of departmental assets, and reduce emissions resulting from inefficient site operational processes. SDG: 13 – Climate Action (13.2) |
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| Install a solar wall at Canso Canal (NS) to reduce energy consumption and operating costs. | A solar wall was installed at Canso Canal to reduce CO2 emissions. | FSDS: A solar energy system allows for the conversion of solar energy to electrical energy for use in any given building which reduces the amount of electricity consumed from the grid. In some cases, excess energy produced by the solar systems is transferred back to the grid which further reduces GHG emissions. This departmental action is consistent with the FSDS government greening interim goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions from federal government facilities and fleets by 40% by 2030. SDG: 13 – Climate Action (13.2) |
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| Install solar panels or a solar wall at search and rescue stations to reduce energy consumption and operating costs. | Solar walls and/or panels were installed at search and rescue stations in Trois-Rivières and Vancouver. | FSDS: A solar energy system allows for the conversion of solar energy to electrical energy for use in any given building which reduces the amount of electricity consumed from the grid. In some cases, excess energy produced by the solar systems is transferred back to the grid which further reduces GHG emissions. This departmental action is consistent with the FSDS government greening interim goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions from federal government facilities and fleets by 40% by 2030. SDG: 13 – Climate Action (13.2) |
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| Install high efficiency motors / speed drives on system pumps at the Bedford Institute of Oceanography (NS). | High efficiency motors / speed drives were installed on system pumps at the Bedford Institute of Oceanography. | FSDS: The result is directly linked to the FSDS greening government interim goal (i.e., reducing greenhouse gas emissions from federal government facilities and fleets by 40% by 2030). The BIO is DFO’s largest GHG emitting facility. By installing high efficiency motors / speed drives, the region was able to reduce overall energy consumption resulting in a reduction of GHG emissions. SDG: 13 – Climate Action (13.2) |
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| Upgrade all windows in the Murray building at the Bedford Institute of Oceanography (NS). | Windows have been upgraded and will contribute to energy saving and reduced load on heating ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) systems. | FSDS: The result is directly linked to the FSDS greening government interim goal (i.e., reducing greenhouse gas emissions from federal government facilities and fleets by 40% by 2030). The BIO is DFO’s largest GHG emitting facility. By upgrading all windows in the Murray Building, the region was able to reduce overall energy consumption resulting in a reduction of GHG emissions. SDG: 13 – Climate Action (13.2) |
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Upgrade to energy efficient lighting at multiple sites including:
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Upgraded to energy efficient lighting at:
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FSDS: Energy efficient lighting such as LEDs consume significantly less energy than their incandescent counterparts. In large facilities such as Coast Guard bases and labs, thousands of light bulbs are needed which consume significant amounts of energy. Switching to LED reduces lighting energy consumption by up to 75%. This departmental action is consistent with the FSDS government greening interim goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions from federal government facilities and fleets by 40% by 2030. SDG: 13 – Climate Action (13.2) |
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| Install building shading at the Bedford Institute of Oceanography (NS) to control heat load. | Installed building shading at the Bedford Institute of Oceanography (BIO) to control heat load and reduce load on building HVAC system. | FSDS: The result is directly linked to the FSDS greening government interim goal (i.e., reducing greenhouse gas emissions from federal government facilities and fleets by 40% by 2030). The BIO is DFO’s largest GHG emitting facility. By installing additional shading, less energy is needed to cool the various buildings on campus during the spring and summer months, resulting in a reduction of GHG emissions. SDG: 13 – Climate Action (13.2) |
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| Retrofit piping to extend sea-water cooling system to Murray and Holland Buildings at the Bedford Institute of Oceanography (NS). | Retrofitted piping to extend sea-water cooling system to Murray and Holland Buildings at the Bedford Institute of Oceanography (BIO). | FSDS: The result is directly linked to the FSDS greening government interim goal (i.e., reducing greenhouse gas emissions from federal government facilities and fleets by 40% by 2030). The BIO is DFO’s largest GHG emitting facility. By retrofitting the piping system, less energy is need to cool the Murray and Holland buildings during the spring and summer months, resulting in a reduction of GHG emissions. SDG: 13 – Climate Action (13.2) |
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Install solar panels at the following Canadian Coast Guard bases:
Install solar thermal at the following Canadian Coast Guard bases:
Install photovoltaic panels in order to generate electricity onsite at Spius Hatchery (BC) Install solar hot water panels on the roof of the hatchery and office buildings at Spius Hatchery (BC). |
Solar panels have been installed in Nanaimo, Hay River, Prescott, Parry Sound, Richmond, and Sidney. Solar thermal system has been installed at Trois-Rivières. Solar thermal projects at Quebec City Coast Guard Base and Sorel Coast Guard Base were deemed non-viable due to the lengthy ROI periods. Photovoltaic panels were installed at Spius Hatchery, BC, as well as the Bedford Institute of Oceanography. Solar hot water panels were installed at Spius Hatchery, BC. |
FSDS: A solar energy system allows for the conversion of solar energy to electrical energy for use in buildings which reduces the amount of electricity consumed from the grid. In some cases, excess energy produced by the solar system is transferred back to the grid which further reduces GHG emissions. This departmental action is consistent with the FSDS greening government interim goal of reducing GHG emissions from federal government facilities and fleets by 40% by 2030. SDG: 13 – Climate Action (13.2) |
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Install a hybrid power generation system at the following lightstations:
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Installed hybrid power generation to reduce fuel required to power Merry Island Lightstation, Entrance Island Lightstation, and Boat Bluff Lightstation. | FSDS: A hybrid power generation system uses solar or wind energy to partially power a generator which is normally powered by fuel. This greatly reduces fuel consumption and thereby directly reduces GHG emissions produced by burning fuel in the generator. This departmental action is consistent with the FSDS government greening interim goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions from federal government facilities and fleets by 40% by 2030 SDG: 13 – Climate Action (13.2) |
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| Modernize our fleet. | Maintain or improve sustainable motor vehicle fleet management. Ensure right sizing of vehicle fleet for operational fleet optimization. Promote motor vehicle operator behavior changes. Purchase or replace vehicles with reduced carbon intensity in the vehicle fleet, where operationally feasible. Switch to less GHG intensive sources of fuels, where operationally feasible. Utilize the Departmental Vehicle Acquisition Plan process to identify motor vehicles for replacement and analyze business case submissions for new program requirements. |
GHG emissions from fleet in fiscal year 2005–06 (base year): = 9.62kt CO2 equivalent.Footnote2 GHG emissions from fleet in fiscal year 2016-17 = 6.31 ktCO2e. Percentage (%) change in GHG emissions from fleet from fiscal year 2005-06 to fiscal year 2016–17 = 35.2% Number of vehicles in the fleet on March 31st, 2017 = 1,342 Percentage of vehicles identified for replacement in 2017-18 = 42.3% |
GHG emissions from fleet in fiscal year 2019-20= 7.24 ktCO2e. Percentage (%) change in GHG emissions from fleet from fiscal year 2005-06 to fiscal year 2019-20 = 24.7%. Number of vehicles in the fleet on March 31st, 2020 = 1,539. Percentage of vehicles identified for replacement in 2019-20 = 12%. |
FSDS: Public Service and Procurement Canada’s Vehicle E-Purchasing Tool was used to determine most effective vehicle for operational needs. The rationalization of fleet vehicles via the retirement of older, less emissions efficient vehicles and replacing them with vehicles that produce lower GHG emissions through improved emission control technology or, by replacing with hybrids, plug-in hybrid electric vehicles, or zero-emissions vehicles where operationally feasible will help to meet GHG emission reductions goals. SDG: 13 – Climate Action (13.2) |
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| Support the transition to a low-carbon economy through green procurement. | Train procurement and/or materiel management specialists on green procurement. Use standing offers, and other approved instruments, for specific commodities which include criteria to reduce the environmental impact associated with the production, acquisition, use and/or disposal. Ensure key officials include contribution to and support for the Government of Canada Policy on Green Procurement objectives in their performance evaluations. |
Number and percentage of new procurement and/or materiel management specialists who have completed the Canada School of Public Service Green Procurement course or equivalent in the current fiscal year. Percentage of audio visual equipment purchases considered as “green”. Percentage of furniture purchases considered as “green”. Number and percentage of managers and functional heads of procurement and materiel whose performance evaluation includes support and contribution towards green procurement in the current fiscal year. |
A total of 2 new procurement and/or materiel management specialists out of 3 have completed the Canada School of Public Service Green Procurement course or equivalent in 2019-20 = 66%. A total of 116 contracts for audio visual equipment were considered “green” out of 137 contracts in 2019-20 = 85%. A total of 280 contracts for furniture were considered as “green” out of 303 contracts in 2019-20 = 92%. Zero functional heads of procurement and materiel management had a green procurement component in their performance evaluation in 2019-20 = 0%. |
FSDS: Green procurement incorporates environmental criteria into purchasing decisions. Purchases of audio video equipment and office furniture were placed against Standing Offer and Supply Arrangement holders who incorporated green procurement considerations into their procurement instruments. Procurement agents who are trained to apply such criteria can award contracts to suppliers with a reduced GHG footprint. This is expected to motivate suppliers to reduce GHG emissions associated with their goods, services and supply chains. SDG: 12 – Responsible Consumption and Production (12.7) |
| Additional departmental activities and initiatives | Starting points, targets and performance indicators | Results achieved |
|---|---|---|
Development and implementation of a single-use plastic reduction initiative for DFO that supports Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 12 and 14. United Nations SDG 12 United Nations SDG 14 |
In March 2018, the Minister of Fisheries, Oceans, and the Canadian Coast Guard committed to champion a three-part initiative to restrict the consumption of single-use plastics which includes:
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DFO’s “Goodbye Single-Use Plastic” internal employee engagement campaign, launched in April 2018, has resulted in over 2700 employee signatures on a pledge to reduce their personal single-use plastic consumption. In line with the Department’s Policy to Restrict the Procurement and Use of Single-Use Plastic, the Office of Environmental Coordination launched a two year pilot program to purchase TerraCycle Zero Waste Boxes in seven laboratories across the country, with a goal to divert necessary single-use plastics from landfill. Results gained from this two year pilot will inform changes to waste management processes moving forward. The Gear Innovation Summit, which took place in Halifax in February 2020, was the first large scale event organized in accordance with the Department’s Directive to Restrict the Procurement and Use of Single-Use Plastic for Federal Government Meetings, Events and Conferences. |
Context for the FSDS goal: Effective Action on Climate Change
DFO is working closely with Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) and other partners to increase our understanding of climate change impacts and to advance a long-term climate strategy for Canada. This includes conducting scientific research and monitoring activities that inform decisions related to fisheries management, species conservation, and marine safety. For example, scientists are improving our ability to predict changing ocean conditions, increasing our understanding of the biological impacts of ocean acidification on marine species and environments, and determining the vulnerability of commercial fish species and their prey to climate change impacts.
| FSDS target(s) | FSDS contributing action(s) | Corresponding departmental action(s) | Starting point(s) Performance indicator(s) Target(s) | Results achieved | Contribution by each departmental result to the FSDS goal and target and UN SDG |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| By 2030, reduce Canada’s total GHG emissions by 30%, relative to 2005 emission levels. | Develop a solid base of scientific research and analysis on climate change. | Conduct two annual 28-day ocean water sampling projects from Coast Guard vessels, which are used for climate change research and other research areas. Support ice monitoring in the eastern Northwest Passage, where moorings collect data on water temperature. |
Number of operational days compared to planned days in support of science programs. | Number of operational days* planned in support of science programs = 2,649. Number of operational days delivered in support of science programs = 2,469. * An operational day is defined as a day when a vessel is planned to meet vessel demand and/or service delivery to a program, excluding self-maintenance, refit and lay-up periods. The total number of operational days planned and provided are greater than 365 calendar days due to the fact that these days are provided on multiple vessels. |
FSDS: Coast Guard continues to support scientific research and climate change analysis by collecting critical scientific data in the Atlantic, Pacific and Arctic Oceans. The water samples collected will enable the Department’s scientists to gather the data they need to conduct important climate change research in support of the 2016-19 FSDS and the SDGs. SDG: 13 – Climate Action (13.2) |
| Additional departmental activities and initiatives | Starting points, targets and performance indicators | Results achieved |
|---|---|---|
Develop a solid base of scientific research and analysis on climate change, including improving our ability to predict changes in ocean conditions and undertaking fish stock / climate vulnerability assessments to determine their susceptibility to climate change impacts. United Nations SDG 13 United Nations SDG 14 |
80% of planned aquatic climate change research projects are completed annually. 100% of Aquatic Climate Change Adaptation Services Program (ACCASP) science products available on DFO’s website. |
100% of the two ACCASP projects ending in 2019-20 were completed as planned. The product outputs from the projects completed are available on the Department’s website. In addition, a national initiative is ongoing to advance the integration of climate, oceanographic and ecological variables into fish stock assessment. |
Context for the FSDS goal: Healthy Coasts and Oceans
DFO is committed to protecting Canada’s coasts and oceans by leading the efforts, with support from ECCC and Parks Canada Agency, to achieve the Government of Canada’s commitment to protect 25% of marine and coastal areas by 2025, working towards 30% by 2030. Currently, 13.81% of Canada’s marine and coastal areas are protected. Work is also moving forward on continued implementation and development of the Sustainable Fisheries Framework (SFF) policies to support an ecosystem approach to fisheries management. Implementation of the SFF policies will help ensure that all major fish and invertebrate stocks are managed and harvested sustainably, legally, and applying ecosystem approaches.
| FSDS target(s) | FSDS contributing action(s) | Corresponding departmental action(s) | Starting point(s) Performance indicator(s) Target(s) |
Results achieved | Contribution by each departmental result to the FSDS goal and target and UN SDG |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| By 2020, 10% of coastal and marine areas are conserved through networks of protected areas and other effective area-based conservation measures. | Protect and manage marine and coastal areas. | DFO is working to achieve marine conservation targets:
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Starting Point: 0.88% coastal and marine areas conserved as of March 2013, as reported by the Conservation Areas Reporting and Tracking System. Performance Indicators: 5% of Canada’s marine and coastal areas are protected by December 2017. 10% of Canada’s marine and coastal areas are protected by December 2020. |
Having met its domestic target of protecting 5% of Canada’s marine and coastal areas by 2017, the Department continued to work with partners and stakeholders to surpass the 10% international marine conservation target. By August 2019, Canada protected 13.81% of its ocean estate (http://www.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/oceans/conservation/achievement-realisations/index-eng.html). The domestic and international marine conservation targets were surpassed through the implementation of a five-point plan that included the establishment of MPAs and OECMs (e.g., marine refuges) by DFO, Parks Canada Agency, and ECCC. The Government of Canada’s approach was guided by three foundational principles – science-based decision-making; transparency; and, advancing reconciliation with Indigenous groups. In 2016, DFO developed operational guidance on OECMs based on Canadian Science Advisory Secretariat (CSAS) science advice. This guidance is being updated to better align with the (2018) international voluntary OECM guidance adopted by Parties to the Convention on Biological Diversity and to implement the federal marine OECM protection standard. Key progress during 2019-20 includes: In April 2019, Canada responded to the final recommendations of the National Advisory Panel on MPA Standards and announced two new protection standards for federal MPAs and federal marine other effective area-based conservation measures (OECM), including marine refuges. Future federal MPAs are subject to federal standards that prohibit oil and gas activity, mining, dumping as well as commercial and recreational bottom trawling. The OECM protection standard requires that risks to the area from human activities be effectively mitigated or avoided. These two protection standards will support improved conservation of ecologically sensitive and important parts of our oceans. In May 2019, Bill C-55 received Royal Assent, amending the Oceans Act and the Canadian Petroleum Resources Act. Amendments to the Oceans Act provide the option to establish an MPA by Ministerial Order regulation, include the maintenance of ecological integrity as a reason to establish an MPA, and modernize enforcement provisions of the Act. In August 2019, Canada, in collaboration with the Qikiqtani Inuit Association and the Government of Nunavut, established the Tuvaijuittuq MPA, the first MPA established using the new Ministerial Order power under the amended Oceans Act. In January 2020, Minister Jordan met with her Eastern Canada provincial counterparts at the Eastern Fisheries & Aquaculture Ministers (EFAM) meeting to announce Marine Spatial Planning (MSP) as the ocean planning process to develop an oceans economy strategy while meeting conservation objectives. Following EFAM, the Department sent letters inviting Eastern Canada provinces, including Quebec, to become MSP partners and to the Province of BC to expand MSP partnership arrangements into Southern BC. |
FSDS: Collaboration and coordination with partners and stakeholders are vital to surpassing Canada’s domestic and international marine conservation targets. Departmental actions to establish these mechanisms were taken to sustain healthy relationships, and support information sharing and communication amongst key partners and stakeholders in order to achieve the FSDS target and support the broader UN SDGs. SDG: 14 – Life Below Water (14.5) |
Establishing mechanisms to support collaboration with federal / provincial / territorial and other stakeholders to support ocean management and marine conservation activities, through:
Continuing to use data and information related to the conservation and management of the marine environment to support decision-making. |
Rating of the level of effectiveness of the Oceans Management Contributions Program collaborative governance structures. Memberships for the program’s collaborative governance structures have been established. Surveys of members with a weighted scale to “rate” the responses will be conducted to assess perceived effectiveness of structures. Number of priority setting exercises undertaken to make decisions by 2019. |
The Interdepartmental Committees on Oceans held one meeting at the Assistant Deputy Minister level in 2019-20. This meeting facilitated interdepartmental discussions of ocean-related aspects of Canada’s G7 Presidency, marine protection and sustainable use in Arctic waters, and other crosscutting ocean topics, enabling better federal coordination of oceans issues. At the April 2019 Deputy Minister’s meeting for the Canadian Council of Fisheries and Aquaculture Ministers (CCFAM), Canada provided an overview of the status of the 2020 marine protection targets. As of the time of that meeting, in April 2019, 7.92% protection had been achieved through a number of different conservation measures:
Canada also provided an overview of the proposed response to the recommendations of the National Advisory Panel on Marine Protected Area Standards. This included communications to clearly distinguish between the approaches in MPAs and marine refuges. Discussions to establish federal-provincial marine spatial planning will continue. During the Oceans Task Group section of the meeting, Canada outlined progress and next steps for the Oceans Task Group, with continued dialogue planned on meeting Canada’s 10% marine conservation target as well as on marine spatial planning. |
FSDS: The establishment of mechanisms to support collaboration help to protect and conserve coastal and marine areas, including the work of CCFAM – Oceans Task Group. FSDS: The establishment of mechanisms to support collaboration help to protect and conserve coastal and marine areas, including the work of CCFAM – Oceans Task Group. It is important to note that the 10 per cent target is national in scope and the number and size of marine and coastal areas identified as needing protection may vary from bioregion to bioregion. As well, it is recognized that provincial and territorial partners have made valuable contributions to meeting this commitment. SDG: 14 – Life Below Water (14.2) |
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| Build our knowledge of coastal ecosystems, MPAs and fisheries. | Conduct scientific research and monitoring and provide science advice to support marine conservation. | Biophysical overviews are completed for new areas of interest (AOI). One State of the Ocean Ecosystem Report to be completed each year: State of the Arctic Ocean Ecosystem Report 2018-19. |
Biophysical and Socioeconomic overview for Offshore Pacific was completed in April 2019 (https://www.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/csas-sccs/Publications/ScR-RS/2019/2019_011-eng.html). | FSDS: Biophysical and Ecological Overviews provide detailed information on the key physical and biological oceanographic characteristics; predominant, unique habitat features; and, significant species within an AOI as they pertain to known Ecologically and Biologically Significant Areas and their linkages to other key ecosystem components and processes. Reviews of this scientific knowledge may serve to highlight additional conservation priorities, and assist with various stages of MPA establishment and subsequent management, including monitoring. SDG: 14 – Life Below Water (14.2) |
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| By 2020, all fish and invertebrate stocks and aquatic plants are managed and harvested sustainably, legally and applying ecosystem-based approaches starting at 96% in 2015. | Work with partners to protect and restore coastal ecosystems. | Scientific monitoring and research activities are conducted for aquatic species. Species are assessed and this information forms science advice that informs the sustainable management of Canadian fish stocks. | Starting Point: In 2015-16, 86% of client requests for science advice to support management decisions on fisheries resources were completed in the time required. Performance Indicator: 90% of requests for science advice on fisheries resources, are completed within required time. |
In 2019-20, 75% of the scheduled fisheries science advisory processes were completed within the required time. 85 fisheries science advisory processes were approved, 64 processes were completed, 0 processes were cancelled due to changing client priorities and 21 processes were re-scheduled to 2020-21. |
FSDS: Peer-reviewed science advice of fisheries resources improves our knowledge of fisheries resources, their productivity and factors affecting them to support sustainable fisheries management. SDG: 14 – Life Below Water (14.2; 14.4) |
| Implement policies for sustainable fisheries. | Take concrete steps to implement an ecosystem approach to fisheries management through the continued implementation of the SFF policies in Canada’s fisheries. Continue to develop SFF policies, where required. DFO is developing a national fishery monitoring policy to ensure adequate and consistent monitoring of catches in individual fisheries, to further strengthen the management of fisheries. |
Starting Point: To measure the sustainability of Canada’s major fisheries, DFO tracks the percentage of major fish stocks harvested at levels considered to be sustainable. Based on the results of the 2016 Sustainability Survey for Fisheries, 96% of Canada’s 159 major fish stocks were managed and harvested at levels considered to be sustainable in 2015, up from 90% in 2011. In addition, to measure the sustainability of Canada’s major fisheries, DFO tracks the precautionary approach status of major fish stocks: in 2015, 49% of 159 major fish stocks were classified in the healthy zone, 20% in the cautious zone, 12% in the critical zone, and 19% were not classified in any of the three precautionary approach zones due to information gaps. Performance Indicators: Percentages of major fisheries that have limit reference points and harvest control rules. Percentage of decisions for major fisheries where harvest control rules were followed. *Major fish stocks generally refers to, but is not limited to fish stocks with an annual landed value of greater than $1 million or an annual landed weight of greater than 2,000 tonnes.* |
Since 2016, the major stock list has increased to include 177 stocks. Results for the next three indicators are based on the 2018 Sustainability Survey for Fisheries results, which are the latest data available. The 2018 Sustainability Survey for Fisheries measured that 170 out of 177 major fish stocks (96%) were managed and harvested at levels considered to be sustainable in 2018. In 2018, 33% of major fish stocks were classified in the healthy zone, 15% in the cautious zone, 11% in the critical zone, and 41% were not classified in any of the three precautionary approach zones due to information gaps. In the 2018 Sustainability Survey for Fisheries, 82 out of 177 major fish stocks (46%) had both a limit reference point, and had harvest control rules. In 2019-20, 100% of decisions for major fisheries followed harvest control rules where they exist. |
FSDS: Developing and implementing reference points and harvest control rules to manage individual fish stocks is required under the Department’s 2009 Precautionary Approach Policy, part of the Sustainable Fisheries Framework. DFO is applying this policy to an increasing number of fish stocks to help ensure that fishery management measures promote the biological sustainability of fish stocks and thus support economically prosperous fisheries into the future. SDG: 14 – Life Below Water (14.2) |
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| Innovate to reduce acoustic pollution in the marine environment. | Reduce noise pollution by using state of the art science research vessels that minimize underwater radiated noise. | Number of Coast Guard vessels using technology to reduce radiated noise levels. | Coast Guard continues to pursue noise abatement options for its future fleet and continues to build an inventory of technologies implemented for this purpose. Project Engineers responsible for supporting the environmental systems and environmental file within headquarters are assigned. Their responsibilities include addressing standards and technologies for noise pollution for Coast Guard ships, and collaborating with other Government of Canada organizations on research, design and development for innovative noise mitigation technologies. Coast Guard is reviewing and updating standards and guidance documents to incorporate noise pollution reduction measures, where appropriate. |
FSDS: Collaborations with other Government of Canada organizations to determine and select technologies suitable for retrofitting existing vessels and provide design guidelines for new builds will reduce noise propagated in the water from Coast Guard vessels and reduce the impact of noise pollution in the marine environment. SDG: 14 – Life Below Water (14.1) |
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| Other | Other - Oceans Protection Plan (OPP) The OPP is a multi-year project that is being developed in stages. More performance indicators and departmental actions will be released in future DSDS updates. |
Oceans Protection Plan – Pillar I: A State-of-the-Art Marine Safety System. | The number of marine safety incidents and spills from vessels in Canada’s waters:
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Through the OPP, a prototype system for vessel traffic monitoring has been developed and is being implemented. The prototype system aims to support the improvement of marine safety and prevent spills and will be available for use by coastal communities and marine stakeholders. Through the Increased Presence and Extended Season in the Arctic project, Coast Guard is not only extending the icebreaking season in the Arctic, it is expanding its presence and services, which will increase Coast Guard capability to respond to incidents and reduce incidents in these areas. An Arctic Auxiliary Chapter has been created, which will also play a role in increasing marine safety in the Arctic. The Canadian Coast Guard Auxiliary is a Canada-wide volunteer marine association dedicated to marine search and rescue and the promotion of boating safety. |
FSDS: These actions will advance efforts towards the development of a world-leading marine safety system in Canada and will:
SDG: 9 – Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure |
| Oceans Protection Plan – Pillar II: Preservation and Restoration of Marine Ecosystems | The percentage of projects funded through Coastal Restoration Fund contribution agreements leading to rehabilitation of aquatic habitats:
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To date, the Coastal Restoration Fund has held two national calls for proposals that have garnered overwhelming national interest with over 240 applications worth over $365M. In total, the initiative has allocated its full funding complement ($75M) in support for over 60 projects on all of Canada’s coasts. These projects are designed to lead to the rehabilitation of aquatic habitats and to address threats to marine habitats and species. |
FSDS: These projects are designed to lead to the rehabilitation of aquatic habitats and to address threats to marine habitats and species through efforts that:
SDG: 14 – Life Below Water (14.2) |
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The number of vessels of concern addressed:
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The Government of Canada has committed to address, remediate, or monitor 275 vessels of concern. Responsibility for this initiative is shared between Transport Canada and DFO. Of these 275 vessels, 50 vessels under the Department’s responsibility have been targeted to be addressed by 2022. To date, 61 vessels have been removed from federal small craft harbours under the Abandoned and Wrecked Vessels Removal Program, exceeding DFO’s target of 50 boats removed by 2022. In addition, the Department is completing seven technical assessments of the remaining vessels to determine priority for subsequent remediation. |
FSDS: By removing an important number of dangerous vessels from the water this departmental action contributes to the preservation and restoration of marine ecosystems. SDG: 14 – Life Below Water (14.2) |
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| Oceans Protection Plan – Pillar III: Indigenous Partnerships | The number of Indigenous groups that participate in Canada’s marine safety system:
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Examples of how Coast Guard is working towards achieving the goal of oceans management and protection through a variety of different ways include, but are not limited to:
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FSDS: Protecting the marine environment is a critical, shared interest with Indigenous groups. Coast Guard is working towards creating innovative opportunities to increase the formal role, capacity, and participation of Indigenous peoples in marine safety and oceans management and protection, including through the negotiation of regional partnership / reconciliation agreements, arrangements and programming. SDG: 14 – Life Below Water (14.2) |
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| Oceans Protection Plan – Pillar IV: A Stronger Evidence Base and Increased Community Participation and Public Awareness | The percent of policies and operational response plans developed through the OPP that are supported by scientific, local / traditional, and other relevant information and knowledge:
The percentage of Canadians who are confident in Canada’s marine safety system:
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A roadmap has been developed under the OPP through 2019, to target incorporation of science, local / traditional, and other relevant information / knowledge into operational response plans. This roadmap is part of the ongoing process of moving toward the 100% target. The OPP Secretariat has created a products plan, which supports community engagement through the development of information products that explain OPP projects and their impacts on the marine safety and security system. Outreach to inform the public about OPP programs and successes continues to take place at various events. The OPP Secretariat is performing a coordination role for Indigenous engagement to ensure engagement is efficient and effective. The Secretariat is also developing a lessons learned document to illustrate best engagement practices. This includes the importance of open communication between the department and communities and how to share information in a meaningful and respectful way. |
FSDS: DFO is undertaking environmental sensitivity mapping and oil behaviour research in support of Emergency Response Plans being developed by Coast Guard and Transport Canada. The incorporation of this information will better inform those Plans, strengthening the evidence base, and better protecting the aquatic environment. SDG: 14 – Life Below Water (14.2) |
Context for the FSDS goal: Pristine Lakes and Rivers
DFO provides support to the International Institute for Sustainable Development Experimental Lakes Area to conduct scientific research that will help us better understand freshwater ecosystems. The Department will also continue to conduct scientific research and monitoring activities in freshwater environments, with a focus on the Lake Winnipeg Basin and the Great Lakes-St. Lawrence River Basin.
| FSDS target(s) | FSDS contributing action(s) | Corresponding departmental action(s) | Starting point(s) Performance indicator(s) Target(s) |
Results achieved | Contribution by each departmental result to the FSDS goal and target and UN SDG |
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| By 2019, restore beneficial uses that will assist in the delisting of five Canadian Great Lakes Areas of Concern (AOCs). In the remaining AOCs, increase the number of beneficial use impairment re-designations from 18 in 2014 to 30 in 2019. | Provide in-kind support and funding for projects. | Conduct scientific research and monitoring activities and provide support for the Experimental Lakes Area in Northwestern Ontario. | Establish a contribution agreement to provide support for freshwater research at the Experimental Lakes Area. | The Department established a four-year contribution agreement with the International Institute for Sustainable Development Experimental Lakes Area to support the long-term collection of ecological data (commenced April 1, 2018). | FSDS: DFO continues to provide funding through various agreements to support the ongoing collection of long-term monitoring data, ensuring a robust time-series is maintained as it relates to hydrology, water quality, plankton and fish data from a series of lakes within the Experimental Lakes Area. DFO is also undertaking research and monitoring activities to provide science advice to ECCC for the evaluation of the status of beneficial use impairments of fish communities, fish habitat, and lower trophic levels. This critical research and monitoring for the Bay of Quinte, Toronto and Region, Hamilton Harbour, Detroit River, St. Clair and St. Lawrence River Areas of Concern (AOCs) allows DFO Science to support restoration and delisting of AOCs in the Great Lakes. SDG: 14 – Life Below Water (14.2) |
Context for the FSDS goal: Healthy Wildlife Populations
The Species at Risk Act (SARA) is key federal government legislation and is an important tool for conserving and protecting Canada’s biological diversity and to enable Canada to meet its international commitments under the Convention on Biological Diversity. DFO, in cooperation with Parks Canada, supports the protection and recovery of listed aquatic species in Canada and their critical habitats and residences with the ultimate goal of preventing the extirpation (extinction in the wild) or extinction of aquatic species. The Department provides scientific information and advice that contribute to species status reports produced by the Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada (COSEWIC) to help inform the risk status of aquatic species. The Species at Risk Program is informed by sound scientific information and Indigenous and community knowledge, in support of activities in the species at risk conservation cycle, and takes into account socio-economic and stakeholder considerations as required. DFO is transitioning its approach towards multi-species and ecosystem approaches to species at risk survival and recovery, with identified priorities for collaborative action.
The Department has several programs to support stewardship and recovery actions of partners from across the country. One of these programs is the Canada Nature Fund for Aquatic Species at Risk (CNFASAR). This program, funded as the aquatic arm of the Canada Nature Fund under the Canada Nature Legacy Initiative, provides $55 million over 5 years to support recovery actions in priority places and to mitigate priority threats to aquatic species at risk. DFO also contributes to: the ECCC-led General Status of Species in Canada measure of species assessed as secure or at-risk, which provides a measure of potential extinction risk and an indicator of the overall state of biodiversity in Canada, as well as to the ECCC-led Canadian Environmental Sustainability Indicators Species at Risk Population Trends, which assesses recovery trends of listed species.
| FSDS target(s) | FSDS contributing action(s) | Corresponding departmental action(s) | Starting point(s) Performance indicator(s) Target(s) |
Results achieved | Contribution by each departmental result to the FSDS goal and target and UN SDG |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| By 2020, species that are secure remain secure, and populations of species at risk listed under federal law exhibit trends that are consistent with recovery strategies and management plans. | Work with partners to protect species and their habitats. | Publish recovery or management documents on the public-facing Species at Risk Public Registry. Identify critical habitat, either partially or completely in recovery documents. |
Starting Point: 65% of species listed under SARA have a recovery strategy or management plan published on the SARA Registry as of March 31, 2017. Performance Indicator: 75% by March 31, 2020. Starting Point: 29% of species where critical habitat has been identified either partially or completely, and an order has been made relating to that critical habitat as of March 31, 2017. Performance Indicator: 75% by March 31, 2020. |
As of March 31, 2020, 81% of aquatic species listed under SARA have a recovery strategy or management plan published on the Species at Risk Public Registry. As of March 31, 2020, 54% of aquatic species where critical habitat has been identified either partially or completely in a recovery document have a critical habitat order in place. |
FSDS: DFO’s Species at Risk program for aquatic species is informed by sound scientific information, Indigenous and community knowledge and takes into account socio-economic and stakeholder considerations, in support of activities in the species at risk conservation cycle. These actions are reflected in listing and recovery documents published on the Species at Risk Public Registry. SDG: 15 – Life on Land (15.5) |
| Support Implementation of the Species at Risk Act. | Provide science advice and information in support of species assessment, listing and recovery planning under the Species at Risk Act. | Performance Indicator: 90% of requests for science advice to support species at risk legislative requirements are completed within the required time. |
In 2019-20, 82% of requests for science advice to support species at risk legislative requirements were completed within the required time:
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FSDS: Peer-reviewed science advice of species at risk improves our knowledge of species at risk, their recovery potential and factors affecting them to support healthy and viable populations. SDG: 15 – Life on Land (15.5) |
Context for the FSDS goal: Sustainable Food
Aquaculture is the fastest growing food production sector and provides half of all fish for human consumption in the world. Aquaculture represents around 20% of total seafood production in Canada and about a third of total fisheries value. In the coming decade, a shortfall in fish and seafood is projected, which can be met by increased aquaculture production. DFO contributes to the goal of sustainable food by supporting sustainable aquaculture production which is informed by aquaculture science research, and implemented through science-based decision making, and improved policies and regulations.
The Department also conducts scientific research to increase knowledge of effects from aquaculture on the environment, which can assist in the implementation of management measures aimed at maintaining ecosystem health.
| FSDS target(s) | FSDS contributing action(s) | Corresponding departmental action(s) | Starting point(s) Performance indicator(s) Target(s) |
Results achieved | Contribution by each departmental result to the FSDS goal and target and UN SDG |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| By 2020, all aquaculture in Canada is managed under a science-based regime that promotes the sustainable use of aquatic resources (marine and freshwater) in ways that conserve biodiversity. | Increase knowledge of sustainable agriculture, fisheries and aquaculture. | Conduct targeted regulatory research on fish pest and pathogen interactions, ecosystem management and interactions with wild population. | Starting Point: In 2015-16, 90% of the six aquaculture science key priority areas were addressed. Performance Indicator: 100% of the six aquaculture science key priority areas are addressed through research. |
In 2019-20, 100% of the six aquaculture science key priority areas were addressed through research. | FSDS: Targeted regulatory research is conducted to improve the knowledge base that supports the sustainable management of the aquaculture industry. Ensuring that this information is made available to policy and decision-makers facilitates its use in meeting this goal. SDG: 2 – Zero Hunger (2.4) |
| Use legislation and regulations to ensure safe and secure food. | Tracking the incidence of morbidity or mortality in Commercial, Recreational and Aboriginal fish species from pesticide treatments at salmon farms, as per the Aquaculture Activities Regulations. | Starting Point: Tracking began with the introduction of the regulations in July 2015. Performance Indicator: Number of morbidity or mortality events associated with aquaculture pesticide treatments on an annual basis. |
In 2019-20, no morbidity or mortality events were reported. | FSDS: Inspections conducted by Fishery Officers validate licence reporting, and determine whether there is compliance with aquaculture licences, conditions of licence, and other applicable legislation. When necessary, Fishery Officers respond to complaints and conduct investigations to ensure aquaculture operations are sustainably managed in ways that promotes the sustainable use of aquatic resources and conserve biodiversity. SDG: 2 – Zero Hunger (2.4) |
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| Conduct aquaculture regulatory reform. | Carry out amendments to the:
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Performance Indicator: Percentage of amendments completed. |
The Commissioner of the Environment and Sustainable Development’s Spring 2018 report on salmon farming recommended that the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) and DFO should clarify their roles and responsibilities for managing emerging disease risks to mitigate the potential impacts of salmon farming on wild fish. In response, the CFIA and DFO began work to develop a joint CFIA-DFO policy on emerging aquatic animal diseases. This work is nearly finalized and should be completed in 2020. Once finalized, the Department will re-engage the CFIA on proposed amendments to section 56 of the Fishery (General) Regulations to remove program overlap related to the authorization of fish movements from a disease perspective. After significant interdepartmental review over a period of 18 months, the Department decided to not move forward on amendments to the Management of Contaminated Fisheries Regulations. As part of the analysis, it was agreed that the scope of issues that required further work were not related to aquaculture policy. |
FSDS: Regulations help to promote the sustainable use of aquatic resources and the conservation of biodiversity. SDG: 2 – Zero Hunger (2.4) |
Context for the FSDS goal: Safe and Healthy Communities
DFO is working to implement contaminated sites management and is committed to complete remediation and risk management activities for all priority contaminated sites in the Federal Contaminated Sites Inventory. The Department’s National Contaminated Sites Management Plan (CS-EMP), approved by senior management in December 2019, is designed to enable the Department to meet the objectives and targets established by the federal government, including the long-term target to close 95% of existing contaminated sites by 2035.
| FSDS target(s) | FSDS contributing action(s) | Corresponding departmental action(s) | Starting point(s) Performance indicator(s) Target(s) |
Results achieved | Contribution by each departmental result to the FSDS goal and target and UN SDG |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| By 2020, address the 4,300 substances identified as priorities for action under the Chemicals Management Plan. | Demonstrate leadership on assessing and remediating contaminated sites. | Implement contaminated sites management activities according to a five year strategic plan, and in the context of the Federal Contaminated Sites Action Plan. Committed to complete remediation and risk management activities for highest priority contaminated sites on the Federal Contaminated Sites Inventory. | Starting Point: In FY 2016-17, the Department has identified a total of 3,048 sites where contamination may exist and assessment, remediation and monitoring may be required. Performance Indicators: By 2020, the Department expects to:
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In 2019-20, the total number of sites where contamination may exist and assessment and remediation may be required was reduced to 2,475, which is 112 less than in the previous fiscal year. Remediation activities were performed at 185 sites and assessment activities at 137 sites. A total of 104 sites were closed (no further action required and financial liabilities are reduced to zero). Cumulatively since 2016-17 (including FY 2019-20 results): Assessment activities were performed at 904 sites, remediation activities were performed at 786 sites, and 914 sites were closed. |
FSDS: The assessment and remediation of contaminated sites helps to effectively mitigate and manage ecological and human health risks, helping Canadians to live in clean, sustainable communities that contribute to their health and well-being. Investing in the assessment and clean-up of contaminated sites also provides social and economic benefits to Canadians. SDG: 12 – Responsible Consumption and Production (12.4) |
Section 4: Integrating Sustainable Development
During the 2019–20 reporting cycle, DFO considered the environmental effects of 12 proposals subject to the Cabinet Directive on the Environmental Assessment of Policy, Plan and Program Proposals, as part of its decision-making processes.
The Department’s Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) process requires assessment of whether the policy, program, or proposal impacts the achievement of the goals and targets of the Federal Sustainable Development Strategy. The Department also determines specific environmental effects either positive or negative and investigates whether the policy, program, or proposal would affect the environmental footprint of Canadian government operations. By answering these questions DFO fully integrates environmental considerations in the analysis of each option presented before Ministers along with economic and social analysis.
Public statements on the results of DFO’s assessments are released when an initiative has undergone a detailed SEA (see here). The purpose of the public statements is to demonstrate that the environmental effects, including the impacts on achieving the FSDS goals and targets, of the approved policy, plan or program have been considered during proposal development and decision making.
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