CCME State of the Environment Reporting Harmonization Workshop ...

CCME
CanadianCouncil Le Conseilcanadien
of Ministers des ministres
of the Environment de I'environnement
Summary of Proceedings:
CCME State of the Environment Reporting
Harmonization Workshop IV
October 23 and 24, 1995
Winnipeg, Manitoba
Prepared for the:
State of the Environment Reponing Task Group
Canadian Council of Ministers of the Environment
Prepared by:
E.A.S. Environmental Auditing Systems
601-376 Osborne Street
Winnipeg, Manitoba, R3L 2V3
(204) 477-5155
January 1996
ISBN 1-895925-77-0

CANADIAN COUNCIL OF MINISTERS OF THE ENVIRONMENT
Background Statement
The Canadian Council of Ministers of the Environment (CCME) is the major intergovernmental
forum in Canada for discussion and joint action on environmental issues of national,
international and global concern. The 13 member governments work as partners in developing
nationally consistent environmental standards, practices and legislation.
The State of the Environment (SOE) Reporting Task Group was established in 1990 to pursue
three key objectives:
. identification of needs and opportunities to harmonize activities related to state of the
environment reponing;
. development of a common menu of environmental indicators; and
. establishing priorities to implement a national ecological monitoring network.
Six successful workshops have been hosted by the Task Group to address the above-mentioned
priorities. To date, efforts toward harmonization continue and individual jurisdictions have
reaffirmed the need for additional co-operation and collaboration in monitoring, analysis and
dissemination of environmental information.
This Summary Report was developed by EA.S. Environmental Auditing Systems under contract
to CCME. CCME is committed to reflect the highest standards of research and analysis in its
publications. Since CCME itself does not conduct research or author reports, it is not responsible
for the accuracy of the data contained in publications and does not warrant, or necessarily share
or affmo, in any way, any opinions expressed therein.
Canadian Council of Ministers of the Environment Secretariat
326 Broadway, Suite 400
Winnipeg, Manitoba, R3C OS5
Tel: (204) 948-2090 Fax: (204) 948-2125

CCME Background
ExecudveSununtlTY.. 1
1) Introductio n ... ...... .............. ..... ..... ..... .. ..3
MainGoals. .......... ......... ... .. ...... .. ......3
2) State0/ the Environment-1996 Update 3
ChangingBehaviourThroughKnowledge 3
A) Objectivesoverthenext 18months 3
B) Currentsituation ... 3
C) Whatdoourclientswant? 4
D) Howcanwe meetthoseexpectations 4
E) Willuserspayand howmuch? 4
F) Our strengths 5
G) Ourweaknesses 5
If) Keybenefits 5
I) FolioViewsDemonstration
TheInternetDemonstration ...
5
6
3) Stale o/the EnvironmentReportingGuidelines/or CCMEMemberJurisdictions 6
Background..... .. ...... ..................... .......... ..... ........ 6
4) Workplanning 8
Overview. ....... ......... ....... .. ...... ..... ...... .......8
Whatshouldbe doneto ensurethe existenceof theTaskGroup? 8
ShortTerm 8
LongTerm . 8
J urisdic ti oDS .... ................... ..... ......... ................... ............ .............. .. ....9
NationalPerspectives 9
S) Indkators ...10
Background ...10
Discussion 12
Decisions 12
6) Status Reports ..12
1995StrategicOverview ...12
Prioritiesfor 1996197 ..13
Statusof Budget ..14
7) EnvironmentalStatisticsProgram
Overview.
...14
...14
InternetDemonstration... ...15
DatabasesforEnvironmentalAnalysis
Products
15
.15
EnvironmentalStatisticsProgram ..15
Proceedings: CCME SOE Harmonization Workshop IV Page i

8) Wor1cshopWr~up ... 16
Tasks .. ......... ................... ............ ............................ ... .......... ... 16
1)GuidelinesDocument 16
2) Workplanning 16
Reference Documents
1) The State of Canada's Environment - 1996- InternetSampleSheet
2) Stateof theEnvironmentReportingGuidelines- Changesand Comments
3) AlbertaProposedStateof theEnvironmentScheduleand List
4) Templatefor CCMECoreSetof Indicators- British Columbia Study
5) CCME Core Indicators - Exhibit3 - Developmentof EnvironmentalIndicators,FinalReport
6) 1995StrategicOverview- Draft- Appendix B - 1995196Budget
7) CCME SOE Harmonization Workshop IV: List of Participants
Proceedings: CCME SOE Harmonization Workshop IV
Page ii

EXECUTIVES~ARY
On October 23 and 24, 1995, Winnipeg hosted the founh CCME State of the Environment
Reponing Harmonization Workshop. The participants were treated to a busy and productive
work schedule.
Day One
1) Introduction
The three main goals for the Harmonization Workshop IV were: moving ahead with the State of
the Environment Reporting Guidelines for CCME Member Jurisdictions; the continued work,
discussion and resolution of issues in the Development of Environmental Indicator document;
and the development of a workplan for the future.
2) National State of Environment Report -1996 Update
Progress on the third national repon on the state of the Canada's environment was presented.
"Changing Behaviour Through Knowledge" is the main goal of the 1996 national SOE report.
All jurisdictions' input was acknowledged and cUITentstatus discussed.
Over the next 18 months, Environment Canada must ensure improved information accessibility
and deal with declining resources through new more effective technologies, different reponing
processes and revenue generation. Environment Canada needs to build on its strengths, such as
its credibility, in continuing to meet clients needs. Innovation and new product development are
key components for the survival of the national reponing program.
An Internet demonstration showed how to make information more easily accessible and user
friendly. However, while electronic access to information allows for easier access and updating,
it was acknowledged that the demand for printed material has not come to an end
3) State of the Environment Reporting GuidelinesforCCME Member Jurisdictions
A large group discussion, followed by a detailed analysis by three smaller breakout groups,
outlined the changes required for the final repon of the Guidelines document. The highlights
were concerns over language and tone;.the framework; and the format.
4) Workplanning
Each jurisdiction outlined its cUITentand future projects on both State of the Environment and
Sustainability Reporting. Task group members agreed that future harmonization effons will
improve through information sharing.
Consensus was reached for the continued existence of the task group. Concerns were expressed
over declining resources and the ever threatening sunsetting of the Group. Steps were taken to
distribute the task group's work across jurisdictions and to ensure ongoing harmonization of
workplanning.
Proceedings: CCME SOE Harmonization Workshop IV Page 1

Day Two
5) Indicators
The indicators sukommittee of the CCME SOE Task Group, in consultation with other CCME
task groups, developed a core set of environmental indicators that can be used by all jurisdictions
as documented in the report "Development of Environmental Indicators" which was tabled at the
meeting. To test the feasibility of using these indicators across all jurisdictions, the subcommittee
commissioned a pilot study incorporating environmental data from British Columbia
and documenting the difficulties in applying the indicators. While many issues emerged through
this process related to data availability, the task group agreed to continue to test these indicators
in other jurisdictions, namely, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Ontario, and New Brunswick.
In this way, it was hoped a more complete picture of data availability and technical feasibility for
achieving common definitions, standards, and methods of measurement would emerge. Future
actions required would be assessed after all the issues related to indicators were identified and
evaluated.
.
6) Status Reports
The Strategic Overview for 1995 outlined four priorities for 1996/97. They are Harmonization,
Air Issues, Toxic Substance, and Economic Dimensions of Environmental Management
The contribution by each member jurisdiction has decreased at a rate of 10% each year for the
past three years. The contribution levels were to be set in October 1995 and will ultimately
determine the available budget for the upcoming year. How the declining resources will effect
product development is yet to be determined.
7) Environmental Statistics Program
Throughout the presentation given by Statistics Canada, the recurring theme was that the
National Accounts and Environmental Division develops and collects information to promote the
use of Statistics Canada for environmental applications, leading towards a set of standards and
frameworksfor NationalStatistics. .
Future directions are to extend the use of environmental information through State of the
Environment Reporting; Sustainability Analysis, Environmental Impact Assessment; Integrated
Small Area Information; and International Comparisons.
8) Workshop Wrap-up
The proceedings concluded with the outlining of three tasks. The Guidelines document is to be
completed for review by the end of November and for presentation to the Strategic Planning
Committee in February 1996. Secondly, a presentation of the indicators work is to be prepared
for the February meeting of the Strategic Planning Committee. And thirdly, the discussions over
workplanning concluded with the need for a continued forward movement through consensus
building. Priorities to be addressed are the completion of the 2005 Document, finding a home
for What's Up? Newsletter, and examining possibilities for upgrading the federaVprovinciaV
territorial database inventory.
The task group will be co-chaired by Rosaline Frith and Lynda Langford, for the coming year.
Other jurisdictions will be asked to assume a chair role in future years.
Proceedings: CCME SOE Harmonization Workshop IV Page 2

1) INTRODUCTION
The chair of the Canadian Council of Ministers of the Environment State of the Environment
Reporting Task Group, Rosaline Frith, welcomed the participants to Harmonization Workshop
IV.
Three main goalsfor the workshop were identified.
1) Move ahead with the State of the Environment Report Guidelines document.
11) Continued work, discussion and resolution of issues in the Development of
Environmental Indicator document.
111)
The task group needs to continue to work together through the sharing of information from each
jurisdiction. The concern over the lack of resources to complete current projects and to continue
as a task group needs to be addressed. Therefore, the task group must find innovative ways to
avoid duplication and to ensure the survival of a healthy reporting program in Canadian
jurisdictions.
2) NATIONAL STATE OF THE ENVIRONMENT REPORT -1996 UPDATE
Changing Behaviour Through Knowledge - The State of Canada's Environment - 1996 and
Sustainability Indicators
Rosaline Frith provided the task group with a status report on the preparation of the third national
SOE report and the resource cuts to the federal reporting group. This was followed by a lively
discussion on the merits of cost recovery and sponsorship.
A) Objectives over the next 18 months.
· Provide timely and easily accessible integrated information.
- Completethe thirdNationalReport
- Create electronic information base
· Meetdepartmentalgoalson revenuegeneration.
· Develop a new reporting program.
It was stated that while developing a new reporting program is a key step, the program must
continue to produce comprehensive environmental reporting products. Concern over the lack of
resources within Environment Canada may lead to changes within the task group and what can
be accomplished. The issue of chairing the task group and preparing quarterly news bulletins
was raised.
B) Current situation
Morale low-productivity decline.
State of the Environment Directorate to be disbanded July 1996.
Productionprocessesaltered.
· Scheduling still behind.
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Due to imminent cuts in resources to Environment Canada's State of the Environment
Directorate, employee morale is low, resulting in an inevitable decline in productivity. At
present, only a small number of participants will be left to form a task group for core reporting
when the Directorate is disbanded in July 1996. The future organization of the Indicators Branch
is uncertain at this time. More immediate problems face the completion of the 1996 Report.
Insufficient funding is available for the editing and translation of documents in 1996/97. The
result of fewer resources is that priorities need to be set and innovative ways to complete those
priorities need to be sought.
C) What do our clients want?
Several market and user surveys have confirmed that comprehensive and timely
environmental information is key to all levels of decision-making.
· Electronic access to timely environmental information is on the rise, but printed
products still remain the primary source of environmental information.
· Everything we used to offer and more.
The majority of the clients still request printed material. Even with a push towards electronic
access to information, it is difficult to bypass the paper stage. Clients will continue to demand all
that is offered now and will look for more new and updated information through the latest
technology.
D) How can we meet those expectations?
· Less comprehensive, more timely.
· More electronic products:
- Internet and CD-ROM
· On-demand printing.
· Spin-off products:
- Teachers' Kits, videos, multi-media products
New technology such as CD-ROM and the Internet allow for easier and faster access to the latest
information. Use of these outlets, and on-demand printing, frees up resources because the client
and/or a sponsor picks up the costs of printing and distribution. Research and development of
reporting products continue to be a basic government responsibility. While sponsorship may
offset costs, care must be taken to offset the perception of the private sector influencing data or
decision making.
E) Will users pay and how much?
User Fees: $75 - $100 per vision.
Environment Canada will recover production costs only.
Research and preparation part of core mandate of the Government.
· Price sensitivity is still an issue.
Many factors influence the cost of a product, such as the size of the document, number printed,
hard or soft cover, etc. Only the production costs will be recovered, not the costs associated with
the research, development, and integration of information. However, with on-demand printing,
down loading of the Internet, and private sector sponsorship, the prices of the products may be
lowered. Discounts to schools are a consideration. A strategy to support government need,
while at the same time meeting the client's need, is critical.
Proceedings: CCME SOE Harmonization Workshop IV Page 4

F) Our strengths
· Partnerships:
- EP Technology Transfer and Green Lane
- Network of government departments
- Stakeholders at large
Credibility
· Innovativeness
Initial access to the 1996 Report will be through Environment Canada's Green Lane. There will
be free access to Chapter 1 and the highlights of the Report. If the client requires more detail,
then he/she will pay a fee and subscribe to the system. This information will be easily accessible
by all jurisdictions through the Internet.
Partnerships with stakeholders such as the Canadian Manufacturing Association and others from
the private sector need to be encouraged. A broad based content input and review process lends
to objectivity.
The national reporting program is seen as having a credible reputation and needs to maintain this
to continue moving forward. Environment Canada must continue to be innovative in product
development and enrolling partnerships to offset rising costs and declining resources.
G) Our weaknesses
Complexmulti-stakeholderprocess.
Reduced budget.
Internal and external downsizing.
· Lack of conttol over partners' agenda.
The process of establishing a National Report is complex, requiring input from a number of
stakeholders. Our partners' agendas and ours may not always coincide. This process is time
consuming and costly, and requires streamlining. While electronic contact is an important tool,
personal contact and printed material still remain key elements to the process.
The reduced budget requires cost saving innovations and new product development for revenue.
H) Key benefits
Canadians will have more easily accessible information.
· The Stateof Canada's Environment- 1996and the IndicatorBulletin Serieswill be
pillars of the Green Lane.
· Searching capabilities through Folio Views will significantly add value and transform
the report and indicators into a powerful source of knowledge.
New technology allows for easier access to information through the Internet, CD-ROM, and ondemand
printing. Integrated information benefits all jurisdictions. With a better index,
information access is cheaper and faster, leading to greater use.
I) Folio Views Demonstration
· HTML conversion a major concern.
· Experiencing difficulties translating Indicators Bulletins.
· Folio Views will be quicker, better and a lot cheaper.
Proceedings: CCME SOE Harmonization Workshop IV Page 5

· Ability to transfer from text to table of contents as well as unique searching
capabilities.
The process of conversion was always time consuming and costly. However, with new
technology, a six-week conversion now takes five days. The difficulties translating Indicator
Bulletins need to be addressed. The Folio Views is user friendly, allowing for easier
downloading of information and an ability to convert text to tables.
The Jnternet Demonstration
Ms. Frith began the Folio Views demonstration with a mock-up version of Chapter Three of the
State of Environment National Report - 1996. Starting with the table of contents, the participant
clicks onto the topic of choice. To find a specific word or phrase, the participant types it in. An
example, "old growth" was shown and came up with six hits. The participant then goes back to
the table of contents to locate the word or phrase. Once located, the words around it appear to
assist in understanding the context.
The second example was "Issues and Topics" which highlights environmental actions, issues,
indicators, and speeches. The participant clicks on a topic to get the desired information. For
example, the indicator bulletin series is being uploaded regularly and will provide sufficient
information on key environmental trends.
There is complete public access to the Internet system. Environment Canada will keep records of
all who access, how long and how often they use the system. Telephone operators to manage
incoming calls and subscriptions will be hired on a contract basis. Costs will be on a per call
basis. Operators will connect the client once there is a way to subscribe.
As part of an awareness campaign, bookmarks and information sheets have been prepared for
distribution, advertising the January introduction of the State of the Environment - 1996 Report
to the Internet (Reference Document 1). As part of the marketing strategy, a series of artistic
renditions of 15 ecozones will be made available. Each ecozone will have a description of
landforms and climate; plants; wildlife; and human activities. An example of the Prairie
Ecozone rendition was distributed to the participants.
Discussions followed on the effects of declining resources. The need for sellable products,
whether printed or electronic, is a key element in satisfying client needs. As it is now, the
National Report will be difficult to deliver in hard copy and may be released in binder copy
format only, unless a sponsor can be found. The need to be wary of sponsors was raised by the
British Columbia task group member.
It is agreed that the electronic format is a supplement to the printed format. New technology
allows for the downloading, and the cut and pasting of products to suit the clients' needs. The
clear advantage of the technology is the ease of access to and updating of the information.
3) STATE OF THE ENVIRONMENT REPORTING GUIDELINE FOR CCME
MEMBER JURISDICTIONS
Background
Julia Gardner of Dovetail Consulting gave a presentation on the document "State of the
Environment Reporting Guidelines for CCME Jurisdictions". A short overview was followed by
a large group discussion and review of the document. Three breakout groups were established to
Proceedings: CCME SOE Harmonization Workshop IV Page 6

continue discussions and provide a more detailed assessment of the document.
recorded and brought to the forefront when the participants reconvened.
Changes were
A plethora of environmental reporting documents serving various jurisdictions has resulted in
different standards and objectives. CCME, through the cooperation of the jurisdictions, is
attempting to harmonize the environmental reponing process and create a set of national
guidelines that will improve the quality and consistency of State of the Environment Reporting
initiatives. The Reponing Guidelines are intended to serve in guiding and enabling reponing
programs with their State of the Environment Reponing effons, rather than as a requiring or
restricting document
The SOER Guidelines should be geared to newcomers, as well as to experts. The experienced
jurisdictions should continue to supply information to be used as examples for others to learn
from. The examples given were seen as a positive contribution to the document. They make for
a more interesting read.
Framework
Format
Generally very good.
Add subtitle definitions for each element.
#1 direction setting -page 4, then page 2 Direction Setting pages 5-15 need to be changed
2.0, 2.1, etc.
Shared Directions -italics -consistency.
Boxes to highlight, perhaps side bars, size of type.
WordPerfect, which will then be submitted to a desktop publisher to create a more
appealing document.
Cost is a factor.
Concern over long white spaces, may be useful for notes.
Require more visuals such as pictures and diagrams for quick reference and appeal.
A chan or graphical format for the five components using key words was thought to add a visual
identity to the document. A logo may be put above each element to assist in quickly identifying
and locating the desired information.
Language and tone
While the language and tone, overall, offer a discretionary approach for jurisdictions, the
document should be more strongly worded where decisions have been made. This discretionary
language process requires clarifying the context and stating a rational where there are "shoulds".
Changes and Comments
The changes to the Guidelines document are a result of the large group discussions and the
detailed analysis of the breakout groups. Each change is identified by number, heading, page
number, and paragraph, and sentence number if need be. The result of those discussions can be
viewed in Reference Document 2.
The Executive Summary was thought to be too long and could be shonened to one page. The
current Executive Summary could then be titled as an Overview to the Guidelines.
Proceedings: CCME SOE Harmonization Workshop IV Page 7

A Preface or Forward is required to underline the jurisdiction's different stages. How do we
measure the success of SOE Reporting? Through an Ecosystem approach? How and what does
it mean?
The Introduction requires no changes. The summary checklist format was well received, but the
boxes should be empty. It was suggested that above each component, the question for each
element should be boxed and highlighted for quick reference.
4) WORKPLANNING
Overview
Rosaline Frith outlined a number of points for consideration by the participants. The CCME
SOER Task Group will be faced with a reduced budget in the coming year, as are each of the
SOE reporting groups in the jurisdictions. As a result, the annual meeting next fiscal year will be
hard pressed for funding from all possible sources. To continue as a task group in the current
form, we must be innovative in our planning.
The Strategic Directions Working Group and the Strategies for Strategic Direction, which is
compiling information, will assist in the developing of the 1996/97 workplan and the work group
structures. The funding request will be included.
Note: November 20, 1995 is a Strategic Direction Working Group meeting and January 26,
1996 is the tentative deadlinefor task group participants to submit their information. There will
be a meeting of the Joint Strategic Planning Committee - Environmental Protection in February.
All participants should continue to speak with their Strategic Directions Workplanning Group
members. The SOE Reporting Task Group falls under the Harmonization Strategy.
Short Term
1) Raise concerns over budget constraints.
2) Outline the irrwortanceof the SOER Task Gro""".
CCME has taken the lead in developing and nurturing a cooperative approach between the
participating jurisdictions. Direct contact and workshop meetings play essential roles in
information sharing, leading to a consensus towards a future direction. An example of
jurisdictional input is the Guidelines document which is to be completed this fiscal year.
Long Term
Each jurisdiction has benefited from the process through the sharing of information and through
a consensus approach. Therefore, the will of all participants is to continue. The strategies to
move ahead must take declining budgets into consideration. Suggestions include reduced travel,
more teleconferencing, electronic mail, and Internet communication. Continued information
sharing avoids duplication.
The importance of the SOER Task Group is reflected in the work we do. There is a concern that
some jurisdictions, however, seem uninterested or act unfavourably to the overall approach. We
must continue to work with all jurisdictions to understand their needs.
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To continue to evolve as a task group, we must be innovative. A suggestion was made that each
jurisdiction could do the work themselves, leading up to a national workshop for comparative
purposes. However, it was thought that inconsistencies may result.
Jurisdictions
Each of the jurisdictions present discussed its workplans for the coming years:
National Perspectives
Research, development and production of environmental indicators for the national set are
continuing. The first in a series of indicators on sustaining Canada's forest was produced in
September. Work is ongoing to update the stratospheric ozone depletion, climate change, energy
consumption and urban air quality indicators. The first acid rain indicator bulletin is expected
later this year, and draft indicator packages relating to marine resources on both east and west
coasts will be ready for review in January.
SOED and Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) sponsored a national workshop
on urban sustainability indicators in June. There is considerable interest in this area and SOED,
CMHC and the National Round Table are collaborating on follow-up.
A pilot project to develop and test the use of sustainability indicators is underway for the Fraser
River Basin (British Columbia), sponsored by SOED, Environment Canada's Pacific and Yukon
Region and the British Columbia Ministry of Environment, Lands and Parks. An interim report
was distributed at the workshop.
Also distributed was a report, commissioned by SOED, entitled "Connecting with Decisionmakers'
Concerns", which provides an analysis of how to relate the usefulness of indicators to
different types of decision-makers.
The last official meeting of the Public Advisory Committee meeting on SOE Reporting was
November 14, 1995. The priority is to find innovative ways to move forward. Environment
Canada is re-examining the basic elements of the reporting program. The information base may
have to be mUTowed.The concept of a living document (updating as is required) will allow for
work to be completed on a priority basis. Perhaps SOE Progress Repons will be part of the
process.
Quebec is preparing guidelines which are to be delivered by 1996. The indicators work
continues. The use of geometrics in SOER is planned for 1995/96. Plan St. Laurent SOE is due
for release in 1998.
Ontario has completed an Issues Analysis report in 1995. This repon analyzed a series of
environmental issues (smog, acid rain, etc.) from an SOE perspective and developed a relative
rating of these issues in terms of ecological and human health impacts. Current plans include a
provincial SOE repon for completion in the spring of 1996 and a series of quarterly SOE
bulletins also beginning in the spring of 1996.
Manitoba Environment has begun preparation of their SOE Repon. The report will be
transitional towards sustainable development reporting, as the proposed Sustainable
Development Act will have a requirement for a Sustainable Development Report.
The 1997 report will take the ecozone approach with a focus chapter on "Sustainability of the
PrairieEcozone." A pilot project to developsustainabilityindicatorsfor the prairieecozoneis
Proceedings: CCME SOE Harmonization Workshop IV Page 9

eing conducted for the report through a joint effort by the International Institute for Sustainable
Development, Manitoba Environment and Sustainable Development Coordination Unit.
Saskatchewan produced a SOE Report in June 1995 which was accompanied by a fact sheet. A
harmonization process of indicators was accomplished.
The Ecological Land Classification Framework, which includes a digital map and supporting
attribute data fIle, will be competed in 1996. A Prairie Ecozone report is due in 1997.
British Columbia is developing an Environmental Indicators Report due in 1996. As well, The
Commission on Resources and Environment is producing a State of Sustainability Report due out
by spring 1996.
In January 1996, the Minister of Health will release a report on Health Goals outlining the
quality of the environment through a health lens. Some of the topics include air, soil, food,
socio-economics, and housing.
Alberta has outlined its release dates for fact sheets and SOER utilizing a theme approach
(Reference Document 3). SOER themes are Waste Management (Sept. 1995); Aquatic
Ecosystems (Sept. 1995); Terrestrial Ecosystems (Sept. 1997); Airshed Management (Sept.
1998); and a comprehensive report (1999).
Each year, four fact sheets outlining different topics will be released. In 1995, the topics are
Biodiversity (March); Special Places (June); Clean Air Strategic Alliance (September); and
Environmental Human Health (December).
The Yukon will be releasing a SOE Report by the end of 1995.
Nova Scotia has a mandate to produce a SOE Report, but no date has been confirmed.
Newfoundland, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, and the Northwest Territories have not
reported any SOE Reporting activities at this time.
5) INDICATORS
CCME State of the Environment Reporting Working Group Indicators Sub-Committee Report
Background
The CCME SOE Indicators Sub-Committee was established in January 1994 to refine a core set
of CCME indicators reflecting CCME priorities. The sub-committee focused on seven CCME
priority areas (hazardous waste, contaminated sites, solid waste management, air quality, climate
change, stratospheric ozone depletion, and water quality/water use efficiency) and, through a
series of consultations with other CCME task groups in the areas, refined a list of indicators for
these priority areas.
There were four objectives identified in refining the environmental indicators:
. To verify and elaborate upon the environmental indicators selected for the top seven
environmentalissues,thoughconsultationwith variousCCMEtaskgroups;
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. To identify if standard protocols exist for selected environmental indicators and, if so, to
propose a standardized set of methodologies and protocols for measurement of each selected
environmental indicator;
. To identify if targets exist for each indicator for each provincial/territorial jurisdiction and to
propose common targets; and
. To indicate possible social and economic linkages associated with changes to the
environmental indicators chosen for the top five environmental issue areas.
It was also noted that the development of a core set of indicators would assist in the consistent
presentation of environmental information for each CCME jurisdiction. The results of the first
phase of the study in refining the core set of indicators are documented in two reports prepared
by mI Group (Calgary) entitled "Development of Environmental Indicators: Final Report" and
"Development of Environmental Indicators: Presentation Format". The latter document includes
a presentation template that has been developed to assist in conveying the concept of
environmental indicators. The presentation template is expected to be used by a senior
government representative with the intended audience being senior government officials and
non-government corporate executives with the presenter's jurisdiction. The task group agreed
that it is important to present a package to the ministers and deputy ministers for information
purposes in order to highlight progress made.
As a follow-up to the first phase of the study in refining the core set of indicators, terms of
reference were developed for another study to assess the compatibility of the refined indicators in
a provincial context. The second study was to consist of two phases. In phase one of the study,
the availability and quality of the data for each of the refined indicators in British Columbia was
to be reviewed The intent was to complete phase one of the study by November 30, 1995.
Phase two of the study was to repeat the data review assessment process for Alberta,
Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Ontario and New Brunswick. Upon completion of the data reviews
and assessments for each of these jurisdictions, a document was to be prepared identifying "how
to" measure and report on each of the refined indicators to ensure consistency across
jurisdictions.
The first phase of the study, assessing the compatibility of the refined indicators in a provincial
context, using British Columbia as a pilot province, was completed as planned The results are
documented in a report entitled "Harmonizing the CCME Environmental Indicators: A Case
Study of British Columbia" prepared by Westland Resource Group (Victoria). A summary of the
report's conclusions was presented to the task group by Aniko Szojka-Pamell (Indictors Sub-
Committee, Chair). In reviewing the availability and quality of the data for each of the refined
indicators within British Columbia, Westland Resource Group concluded that there was:
1) A lack of data to sUP1>rt the indicators. Although some indicators have comprehensive data
sets (e.g., ground-level ozone and municipal water use), there is a lack of data for others;
2) A lack of nationally accepted definitions. In some topic areas there is lack of clear,
nationally accepted definitions and standards on the use and application of particular
indicators;
3 Variability in data collection techniques. For most of the refined indicators there are no
standard methods/protocols relating to data collection (actual measurement/monitoring,
modelling and surveying) and data analysis (trend analysis, aggregation and generalization).
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The study's results indicated the need for a common set of protocols for measuring and applying
the refined CCME environmental indicators. As such, the Indicators Sub-Committee is
questioning the validity of immediately proceeding with phase two of the study to assess the
compatibility of the indicators in other jurisdictions, namely Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba,
Ontario and New Brunswick.
The subject was then open for discussion as to the direction (option) that should be pursued.
Option I
Option 2
Option 3
Discussion
Continue with Phase Two of the Study as outlined.
Put Phase Two of the study on hold. Send the results of the existing study back to
CCME sector-specific task groups with the intent of having them develop
measurement protocols for the refmed indicators. Then continue with Phase Two.
Cancel Phase Two of the study. Develop terms of reference for a consultant to
develop a common set of protocols for measuring and reporting on the indicators.
The issue over the clarity of the data protocols was raised.
cooperation with the monitoring sector for change to take place.
There may be a need to seek
This resulted in a discussion of whether an "option 4" should be considered. There is an obvious
need to fill in gaps and clearly define the protocols. A pilot project that addresses part of the
overall study (e.g., protocol work) is one option.
A suggestion was to nail down the indicators one at a time. The indicators would have to be
ranked in order of importance and according to which ones have the best potential to be
completed.
Decisions
HowtW we proceed?
1) Tofurther assess the compatibility, utility and comparability of the indicators in other
jurisdictions, the CCME SOE Task Group agreed to repeat the data review and
assessment process for Saskatchewan, Alberta, Ontario, New Brunswick and Manitoba
as a first wave. In addition, it was agreed that standardized data definitions and
measurement protocols would also be developed to facilitate a more consistent,
comparable reporting of environmental indicators.
2) The CCME Task Group will bring forward to the deputy ministers the Guidelines
Document and the Indicator work. This is to be a pro1!ressreport.
6) STATUS REPORTS
Gord Greasley outlined the 1995 Strategic Overview including the 1995196Budget.
1995 Strategic Overview
The purpose of the 1995 Strategic Overview is to outline strategic guidance from the Council of
Ministers and Deputy Ministers Committee for members of the steering committees and for the
Proceedings: CCME SOE Harmonization Workshop IV Page 12

officials that develop the specific workplans of CCME task groups. It provides direction
regarding the future work of the organization and a framework by which proposed work can be
evaluated. It also provides a benchmark of strategic objectives against which progress by CCME
task groups can be assessed.
Priorities for 1996/97
1) Harmonization Initiative
One of the main reasons for the existence of CCME is to continue with a harmonization strategy
throughout all the task groups. CCME has developed policies and technical products where the
primary purpose was harmonization. The Environmental Management Framework Agreement
(EMFA) for Canada is central to harmonization and is intended to reduce overlap and duplication
between federal and provincial/territorial environmental measures. The roles of each
government in the protection of the environment and a greater consistency in environmental laws
and policies, plus the promotion of sustainable development, are intrinsic to harmonization.
The strategic direction is to finalize the EMFA and 11 associated schedules. Ten of the eleven
schedules have been approved for public discussion purposes. The Environmental Assessment
(EA) section is to be held back due to concerns over the EA, its strength, a consistent set of rules,
and a need for public consultation. However, the Environmental Management Framework
Agreement can now be released.
2) Air Issues
Air Issues include all the concerns surrounding air pollution, climate change, ozone depletion
and related issues. The long-range transport of air pollution across boundaries requires a
coordinated approach from all jurisdictional levels.
The chief objective of CCME is to achieve and maintain air quality in Canada that consistently
meets objectives set, which safeguard ecosystem and human health, by preventing or controlling
the release of contaminants to the atmosphere.
The strategic direction is to continue to work with the National Air Issues Coordination
mechanism for the purpose of strengthening it. Central to the strategic direction is the
elimination and/or control of toxic air pollutants and the development of a consistent and
coordinated jurisdictional effort.
3) Toxic Substances
CCME's main attention is focused on the substances of a major and immediate concern that are
the persistent and bioaccumulate in the environment. The strategic direction is to develop a
coordinated and consistent approach to the progressive elimination of toxic substances through a
national set of priorities, while developing a consistent set of environmental standards. Pollution
prevention programs play a key role in the protection and management of toxic wastes.
4) Economic Dimensions of Environmental Management
CCME's objectives are to serve as a forum for promoting a better understanding for the
economic and broad market-based tools which are relevant to CCME members and their
activities. The strategic direction is to exchange information and expertise on the economic
benefits of environmental management programs. Full-life cycle costlbenefit analysis may be
one approach.
Proceedings: CCME SOE Harmonization Workshop IV Page 13

A continued development of the roles and limits of economic and market-based tools, plus a
better understanding of financial measures such as taxation, will assist in defining the roles of
environmental management with respect to improving the cost-effectiveness of regulations and
policies.
IStatus of Budget
CCME's approved expenditure budget for 1995/96 is $3.3 million (see Appendix 7), which is
approximately the same as in 1994/95. With total revenue for 1995/96 estimated at $2.6
million, this level is made possible due to the availability of $592, 000 in accumulated surplus
funds. In the past three years, however, revenues have declined from $3.0 million in 1993/94.
Contributions by member jurisdictions decreased at a rate of 10% each year for the past three
years.
Note:
Ontario had not approved their budget contribution at time of meeting.
By the end of 1995/96, the surplus funds will be expended, and available funds are expected to
decline substantially from the previous fiscal year. In planning for next year during their
September 1995 meetings, for working purposes the steering committee assumed a status quo
budget for 1996/97, which suggested an amount available for projects of approximately $15
million. The available budget will be determined by the contribution levels set by the Council
of Ministers in October 1995.
7) ENVIRONMENTAL STATISTICS PROGRAM
Overview
Traditionally, Statistics Canada has produced mostly printed material; however, through Folio
Views and software data bases, new technology will allow for the electronic introduction of
information to its clientele.
Bruce Mitchell and Cynthia Baumgarten gave a presentation which consisted of four parts:
1) Data basis for Environmental Analysis
2) Environmental Statistics Program Overview
3) Internet
4) Past Strategies
The National Accounts and Environmental Division has four goals:
. To develop, collect, and disseminate information on the theme of Human Activities and
the Environment;
. To develop accounts on Natural Resources and Environment;
. To promote use of Statistics Canada data for environmental application;
. To develop standards and frameworks for National Statistics.
Proceedings: CCME SOE Harmonization Workshop IV Page 14

Internet Demonstration - Guide to Environmental Information for Statistics Canada
1) Environmental Information System
Environmental geographics consists of geographic interests for environmental analysis
such as the 15major ecozones and drainage basins.
Summary Statistics for each drainage basin and system within federal, provincial, and
territorial jurisdictions.
Data for environmental analysis.
2) Environmental Surveys - include household waste, waste management (local government
released in June 1995), waste management industry.
3) Natural Resource and Environmental Accounts - Four main types of accounts include
resource stock (land, fish, soil, metals, forest, biological); resource use (energy, water,
timber, land); waste output (theoretical, refer to surveys); and environmental protection
expenditures will be in the "accounts document" due out in the spring 1996 (2nd version).
Databases for Environmental
Analysis: Federal, Provincial and Territorial Governments
This demonstration used Folio Views software. The main menu outlines the usages, the "home
page", reading materials, information access and projects. On the system, there are currently
over 1,200 different databases for environmental analysis. Folio Views is included on diskette
and requires a minimum of a 386 computer with windows. It is very user friendly and straight
forward. With acrobats software you can download from a file and produce the document as it
would be in printed form. This may save Statistics Canada printing costs in the future.
An overview of current products.
1994
May 1995
June 1995
August 1995
September 1995
Human Activity and the Environment
Households and the Environment, 1994
Environmental Perspectives: Studies and Statistics, Number 2
Interim Repon -Local Government Waste Management Survey
Teacher's Kit -Human Activity and the Environment
These are catalogued on the main Web Site.
Due to be released:
1996
1999
Mineral Accounts
Human Activities and the Environment - Special Issues
Environmental Perspectives is issued every other year.
Environmental Statistics Program
Cynthia Baumgarten gave an overview of the Environmental Statistics Program. The original
objective was to establish a set of environmental statistics for use on national policy analysis.
The strategy included the development of an analytical framework; identify information needs
and gaps; develop existing information; document and coordinate information holding; and
present the information in a usable and useful format.
Proceedings: CCME SOE Harmonization Workshop IV Page 15

The influences on the infonnation gathered are: Databases for Environmental Analysis (CCME);
Pollution Program-Human Activity and the Environment; State of the Environment Reporting;
Green Plan (environmental accounts); Data gaps funding (households, industry, wildlife);
Analytical projects (Parks Canada); London Group (environmental accounting); Conference of
European Statisticians; and the United Nations Statistical Office.
The future directions of Statistics Canada Environmental Program are to extend the use of
environmental infonnation through State of the Environment Reporting; Sustainability Analysis;
Environmental Impact Analysis; Integrated Small Area Information; and International
Comparisons.
How can Statistics Canada assist with each jurisdiction's needs? Comparisons of jurisdictions
within Canada and on an international basis will prove very beneficial. For additional
information, CCME jurisdiction members can contact Statistics Canada directly or through the
task group chair.
8) WORKSHOP WRAP-UP
The overall consensus of the participants was that the Harmonization Workshop was very
productive. Ms. Frith gave a summation of the work discussed and outlined the tasks for the
foreseeable future.
1) Guidelines Document
. British Columbia to continue as leadfor finalization.
. Indicators section to be reviewed.
. Dovetail to make agreed upon changes,final draftfor the end of November.
. Final draft review, then design and layout changes.
. Printing and translation
The goal is to present Guidelines to Strategic Planning Committee for February 13,1996.
Note: Communications Strategy meeting in January.
2) Workplanning
. 2005 Document
Environment Canada to coordinate completion of the 2005 Workplanning Document.
- Manitoba Environment to organize on-line versionfor individual updating.
. Indicators
Albena Environment to continue as lead.
Move ahead with Provincial Data Review.
Clarify protocols.
Prepare presentation for February meeting (a progress report).
Proceedings: CCME SOE Harmonization Workshop IV Page 16

. Data
No work unless budget approved for coming year.
Require updates to move forward.
. What's Up?Newsletter
Environment Canada cannot continue to prepare the newsletter. Question is: can we
afford to continue? Feedbackfrom all levels is positive. Balancing the document is a
concern. Upcoming issue is to be the last one for Environment Canada, with the
torch passed to CCME Secretariat. Each jurisdiction will take a turn preparing the
newsletter, with the next one to be prepared by Manitoba. Internet, bulletin boards
and electronic mail may prove to be useful tools.
Statistics Canada should be included in the What's Up? Newsletter.
. Co-Chairs
Rosaline Frith and Lynda Langford (Saskatchewan Environment and Resource
Management) to act as Co-Chairs. There will be a rotating Chair in thefuture, with
eachjurisdiction to participate.
. Other
Budget concerns, must live within budget this year, next year 10% reduction.
Keep in touch with your committee members emphasizing importance of CCME task
group work, outlining gaps that need to be filled and budget constraints.
The consensus was that Hannonization Workshop IV was very productive.
Rosaline Frith closed the proceedings by thanking all the participants for their input and for
attending.
Proceedings: CCME SOE Harmonization Workshop IV Page 17

Reference Document 1
The State of Canada's Environment - 1996
Internet Sample Sheet

--------------..------
Environment Canada's Green Lane
file fdit ~iew !io Bookmarks Qptions Qirectory
=:a (
I
I
I
I
I
Timely information:
Search. capabilities:
Access to data:
Downloading:
The State of Canada's
Environment - 1996
The State of Canada's Environment is going' online! Starting in January
1996,this authoritativeenvironmental information base will be available on
the Internet. If you needenvironmental information, this new mediumoffers
you distinct advantages:
No more waiting for months to see finalized text! Obtain information
on-line as available.
The Internet version of The State o/Canada 's Environment has all the sophisticated search
functions that you would expect from a high-quality CD-ROM. There's also a fully indexed
reference glossary.
If you think the graphs look nice, but what you really want are the numbers... they're here.
A simple click takes you directly to the data table.
Once you've found the information you're looking for, you can download it for easy
reference. Carry only what you need in your laptop or briefcase.
... =- =--
I
j
I
.1
I
Environment Canada has built on the success of the 1986 and 1991 editions of The State o/Canada 's Environment - acknowledged as indispensable
reference tools for people who need to know about Canada's environment- in creating the most in-depth, comprehensive, and technologically
advanced information base available on Canada's environment: The State o/Canada's Environment - 1996. Highlights from the report will be
public-accessmaterialon theInternet,withmostof thedataandanalysisaccessibleonlyto subscribers.
If you need to know...
What's happening in Canada's environment?
Why it's happening?
Why it's important?
What's being done about it?
An indispensable tool for:
Environmental professionals, including engineers, consultants and urban planners
Educators,students and academic researchers
Environmental non-government organizations
Environmental policy makers and regulators
Everyone who wants a better understanding of Canada's environment
...then you need The State of Canada's Environment-1996
Not on the 'net?
A printed version of The State 0/ Canada's Environment - 1996 is
available. Chapterswill be printedand deliveredto subscribersas
theyarepostedontheInternet
Not to worry...
A CD-ROM version will be produced upon completion of the entire
report, Fall 1996. The CD will offer all the data and interactive
functions of the Internet version. plus enhanced visuals.
Order before May 1, 1996 and receive up to a 30% discount on the Internet and CD-ROM versions.
For more information, call:
1-800-668-6767 http://www.doe.ca ....

Reference Document 2
State of the Environment Reponing Guidelines
Changes and Comments

Chanfes and Comments
The changes and comments below are a result of a large group discussion and of three smaller
breakout groups that provided a more detailed analysis. Each change is identified by heading,
number, page number, paragraph, and sentence number, if need be.
2.1 Purpose and Goalsfor Reporting
page 6, Shared direction, paragraph 2, period after "societal responses". (new sentence)
Statement of Environmental Reporting utilizes a variety of data for developing indicators
to achieve desired environmental results based on monitoring trends or targets.
information ...
page 6, par. 6, Reporting products should aim to answer the five reponing questions
discussed ...
page 6, par. 6 , 1.3 ? Correct reference
page 7, Goals of Reporting Programs within Canada - Examples: British Columbia -
purpose, whereas Albena and Nova Scotia are examples of goals
22 Scope of Reporting Process
page 8, All ideas in this section are not mutually exclusive and need language
consistency.
page 8, What is meant by comprehensive reporting?
page 8, Insen Geographic Reporting below Issue-oriented.
page 8, Indicator Reporting is not a separate entity, but a tool to present the theme.
page 8, What is scope vs. scale?
page 8, Shared direction needs rewording.
page 9, Examples, Nova Scotia intends to produce issue driven reports using indicators.
page 9, Add Saskatchewan
page 9, British Columbia, second bullet and third bullet combined - A family of
environmental reponing products, including environmental indicators and benchmark
repons.
23 Target Audiences
page 10, Change title to "target audiences" and throughout section.
page 10, par. 1, Target audiences are the market for SOE Reporting......
page 10, Shared direction, By identifying the target audiences for SOE reponing,
products can be tailored to the information needs of the user groups. (Take out second
sentence and bullets. Use examples to illustrate bullets.)
page 11, Examples, Target audiences of National State of Environment products
including repons, fact sheets, and indicator bulletins are:
2.4
Conceptual Framework
page 12, Change to Conceptual Framework throughout.
page 12, This section is heavy on the ecosystem approach, stress condition responsepage
12, par. 4, last sentence, Another conceptual model ideal systems. (Should this
stand alone).
page 12, par. 5, Should this be referred to in Section 4.2?
page 12, Shared direction, An ecosystem based conceptual approach should be used in
SOE Reponing. A variety of conceptual and spatial models can be applied within an
ecosystem approach.
page 12, last paragraph, Add "More" in front of first sentence.
page 13, Examples, overlap with scope, need consistency.
This

25 Indicator Selection and Development
page 14, Cross reference section with 4.0, page 22.
3.1 Legislative or Administrative Mandate
page 18, par. 2, 2nd sentence, While Saskatchewan has environmental legislation,
others have administration mandates.
page 18, Shared direction, The long term security of the state of the environment
reporting function is enhanced by entrenching this mandate in legislation. However,
whether it is an administrative or legislative mandate, it is important that the mandate for
reporting be outlined as clearly as possible.
page 18, box, Erase "legislated" in title of Examples.
32 Responsible Agencies and Partnerships
page 19, Change title.
page 19, Reword section with focus on provincial SOER efforts.
page 19, Coordinating agencies are responsible for developing SOER that has effective
partnerships and cooperation with internal and external agencies.
page 20, Examples need editing.
33 Staff and Financial Resources
page 21, Shared direction, Question with second line.
page 21, note: Jurisdictions should allocate resource (financial, human) for SOER
according to extent wanted and in terms of available resources. Must be realistic.
4. Data Compilation, Analysis and Research
page 22, Summary checklist, # 4 moved to # 2 spot - consistency
page 22, # 4, Add "developed and documented, with sources referenced."
4.1 Data Sources and Access to Data
page 23, Shared direction, Ist sentence "could" replaced with "should".2
page 23, Shared direction, Move bullet # 4 to # 3 position.
page 23, bullet 3, Work with other Data holders to encourage data collection and sharing.
page 23, bullet 4, Identify data gaps. (Take out rest).
page 23, bullet 6, Take out "Given limited resources"
page 23, last par., 1st sentence, OK. 2nd sentence - The establishment of inventories of
data bases such as CCME Statistics Canada project will prove very helpful to ......
42 Spatial and Temporal Scales
page 25, Shared direction, Ist par., State of Environment Reports use a variety of spatial
frameworks to organize and present information, which points to the need for accurate
geo-referenced environmental information. The information is linked to specific
geographic coordinates. Geo-referenced environmental information would permit
flexibility in the use of spatial frameworks to fulfil individual jurisdiction reporting
requirements and enhance the opportunity for intra-jurisdictional comparisons.
page 25, 2nd par., Key parameters should be maintained so that trends can be tracked.
(Keep second sentence).
page 25, Box, Examples, Add Quebec - Ecological Centre.
43 Link with Monitoring Program and Research and Development
page 26, 2nd par., 3rd sentence, After "ongoing." take out rest of sentence
page 26, Shared direction, The development of closer relationships between
environmental monitoring and SOE Reporting would benefit all reporting programs.
page 26, box, Title should read, "Links with ....

-- - - -
4.4 Standards and Proceduresfor Data Processing and Analysis
page 27, Shared direction, bullet # 4, Take out (as proposed in section 4.3.1)
5.1 Preparation Team Responsibilities
page 29, Examples - Add British Columbia (to be provided)
52 Reporting Work plans
page 30, Shared direction, Combine two paragraphs. The preparation of a detailed Work
plans and schedule is vital for the coordination of tasks in the production of state of
environment reporting products and is essential for reporting organisations to share Work
plans on a regular basis.....
page 30, Examples - Manitoba to provide example.
53 Reporting Product Contents
page 31, 1st par., Reporting product contents refer to the structure (Table of Contents) .
page 31, par. 2, Ist sentence, Change "analytical" to "conceptual". 2nd sentence, The use
of an ecosystem approach will help to enhance the interpretation of information through
the following presentation structures:
page 31, 4th bullet, Ecological spatial framework replacing environmental processes or
ecosystems.
page 31, bullets, Add Geographical Component.
page 31, Shared direction, It is imponant for the Table of Contents of a state of
environment repon to be understandable and reflect the conceptual framework.
5.4 Technical Production and Editorial Guidelines
page 33, Shared direction, 2nd sentence, Clear and comprehensive editorial guidelines are
essential in the preparation.....
page 33, last par., Take out first sentence., 2nd sentence, Common editorial guidelines
among reporting organisations would improve the consistency among the reponing
products, as well as a reducing .....
55 Reporting Media
page 32, par. 4, add to 2nd sentence, For example, the Green Lane is currently being
implemented at the federal level.
page 32, Examples Box, Need bullets, 1st sentence, Take out "Pans of the".
page 32, bullet 2, Not "via video", should read "in video".
page 32, Examples, Add - National Environmental Indicator Series is on the Internet.
EPA link to Canadian Stratospheric Ozone Depletion Indicator Series.
5.6
Consultation, Review and Approval Procedures
page 34, Switch paragraphs 2 and 3
page 34, par. 4, Final approval for release of reponing products rests with elected
officials.....
page 34, Shared direction, Guidelines or processes for consultation, review and approval
are essentialin the preparationof stateof environmentalreportingproducts.
page 35, Examples, Quebec - capitalize Deputy Minister's and Cabinet, and other
concerned ministries. (Take out NGO's)
'
5.7 Marketing, Communication and Distribution Strategies
page 36, Shared direction, The production of any state of environment reporting product
requires the Member jurisdictions would benefit from joint or shared marketing
strategies and promotion opportunities.

page 36, last par., Joint or shared jurisdictions and sales networks among reporting
jurisdictions may be considered as a result of increased efficiency and effectiveness.
(Take out last sentence).
page 37, Examples, Quebec's Strategies, # 4 Radio and TV interviews, # 5 Copies of
reports sent to government agencies and key participants.
6.1 Evaluation Tools and Feedback
page 39, par. 5, last sentence, One problem experienced is that the timing of the feedback
can be too late to be useful and are often not available until work is well underway on the
next report.

Reference Document 3
Alberta Proposed State of the Environment
Schedule and List

IDSC REVISED JUNE 15. 1995
PROPOSED SOER SCHEDULE AND LIST
Fact Sheet
Proposed Release
Fact Sheet Topic
SOER Theme
Proposed Release
March,1995
June, 1995
September, 1995
December,l995
Biodiversity
SpecialPlaces2000
Oean AirStrategicAlliance
Environmentand Human
Health
WasteManagement
September, 1995
Aquatic Ecosystems
September,l996
Terrestrial Ecosystems
September, 1997
Airshed Management
September, 1998
Topic List
Comprehensive
September, 1999
a. MunicipalSolidWaste
b. Hazardous Waste
Treatment
c. Effluent Management
d Northern River Basins
Study
e. Year 200 Review
f. Wetlands Policy
g. Fish and Wildlife
Habitat Conservation
h. Species at Risk
i. Toxins in the
Environment
j. Urban Air Quality
k. Emission Inventories
l. Emission Targets
m. Land Reclamation
n. Natural Hazards
o. Agricultural Land Use
p. Natural Resource
Accounting

Reference Document 4
Template for CCME Core Set of Indicators
British Columbia Study

Table 1: Template/or
CCME Core Set 0/ Indicators
::::::::j::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::Jl1&Wrs.fliQI

Table 1 continued: Template for CCME CoreSet of Indicators
::::::::::::I:::ii:ii::i::i:::::::i::::::i::II:::iIft.lmRnR¥U:i:::::;;:::::::]i:::::::::::::i:::::::::::::::::::::::i:::i:::i:::II::::i:::tiNmI::i:::I::::::I::::iiL::I:::::::I\teBlSgtrAmtQN.t:iii::i::iiI::i::::
:fCMWIDrtt(f$n::I111Im::::1mt:::1:::::::t::::::::::::i11:::tt:1t:::1:::t:::1mtt:1:::r::::::tt:1:::::::ttt:m:::::::::::::1::::::::::::::1:i::::::::::::::1:1:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::tt::::::::':::::::t:::m:::::::11:::'11::
1) a. Total number of known contaminated Count high as a percentage of total
sites:
clean-up.
i. high risk non-risk as a percentage of total
ii. non-risk
clean-up.
b. Total number of cleaned-up Count
contaminated sites:
i. high risk
ii. non-risk
2) Underground petroleum storage tanks: Count
a. Total number of tanks
b. Number of non-confonning tanks non-conforming as a percentage
of total number of petroleum
storage tanks.
c. Number of smalllandfills closed. ..
d. Number of large landfills closed.
3) Number of monitored sites. Count as a percentage of totallandfill
sites
1) Total weight of municipal solid waste kg per capita
disposed in landfills.
2) a. Number of smalllandfills open Count per annum
(operating).
b. Number of large landfills open
(operating).
c. Number of smalllandfills closed.
d. Number of large landfills closed.
3) Number of monitored sites. Count as a percentage of totallandfill
sites
1) a. Number of disPOsalfacilities. Count per annum
b. DisPOsalfacilities' total capacity tonnes capacitYin wei£ht per year.
2) Total amount of hazardous waste treated tonnes if possible, expressed as a
per annum.
percenta£e of total £enerated.
-Original CCME template suggested "kilotonnes per capita"
Harmo~zing State of Environment Reporting in Canada
Westland Resource Group
Page 5

Table 1 continued: Templatefor CCME Core Set of Indicators
::::::::t:I::I::::t:1::::::::::::::::::::::::fJ.NJmtinR¥:::::::::::}:::::::::::::t:::::::::::::1:::}:::::::::::::::t::::::::::::luN1OO$::::::::::::::::::::::::::I::::::::::..::::::[PBE$ENjfiJi(QN::::::::::::::::m:
:wiie£:HUI@f::::::f:::fff:t@ff:t::::::::::l:f:::::ltt:::::f:ttttttlffff:l:::::::f:tff:tl:ffm::l:f:::ffffff::::::I:::f::/:tl:f:l@mt:m/f::f::::fflmI:::::/fft::::::f:tl:::ff::
1) Daily municipal water use. litres per day per capita
2) Water withdrawn by key economic sector: litres per day
a. municipal
b. agriculture
c. manufacturing
d. thermal power
e. mining
f. other unaccounted water consumption.
3) Water consumption by key economic litres per day as a percentage of water intake
sector:
and returned to the system.
a. municipal
b. agriculture
c. manufacturing
d. thermal power
e. mining
..
f. other unaccounted water consumption.
4) Municipal population on metered water. population as a percentage of municipal
POPulationon metered water.
1.2. METHODS
Reviewing the Template Indicator List
Where template indicators were unclear, CCME task groups were consulted throu~h the
CCME Project Manager, Aniko Szojka-PameIl,to clarify tenninology and definitions.
Federal-provincial definitionsand guidelines were noted. Where no national definitions
exist, British Columbia conventions were used. Definitions are presented in the glossary
in Appendix I.
Identifying, Collecting and Assessing British Columbia Data
The first step in identifyingBritish Columbiadata was to consult with the CCME State of
Environment Task Force representatives for British Columbia, Linda Hannah and Risa
Smith. These representatives supplied existingreports and databases (e.g. British
Columbia State of EnvironmentReport 1993) and a list of provincial ministry contacts to
obtain additional information.
Hannonizing State of Environment Reporting in Canada
Westland Resource Group
Page6

Reference Document 5
CCMECoreIndicators- Exhibit 3
Development of Environmental Indicators,
Final Report

ffiI
GROUP
'JW.!1t;jfi '-? 'ti "'\'" {'!f?!PieSenfutioii:CCME;Lik)i:>.f:
..''/ ......W...,.. .,,\ ...\v , ?g r J
Air Quality (No.,VOC, ActionPlanAir Quality Guidelines)
I) Vehicle emissions (all transportation): . tonnes . percapita
. CO2 emission
Nitrogen oxides
. VOC
2) Industrial (by sector): . tonnes . per GDP (GPP)
CO2 emission
.
Nitrogen oxides
. VOC
3) Ambient Concentration . CO2 one hour maximum ppm
.
as per percentage of maximum
. CO2 and total suspended particulates . particulate24 hourmaximum_ acceptable levels (Fed./Prov. Air
. check PM I0 Quality Guidelines).
4) AirQualityIndex(parametersas perB.C.) . number of times maximum
acceptable levels exceeded.
Climate Change
I) CO2 emissions from fossil fuel use. . tonnes . in relation to GDP and GPP.
Stratospheric Ozone Depletion . tonnes expressed as CFC-II . expressed as average for the
I) New supplies of ozone-depleting substances. equivalents jurisdiction.
2) Number of times UVB Index registers "high" between
May I and September 30 for major cities.
Contaminated Sites
I) a Total number of known contaminated sites: .
high risk sites as a percentage of
1. highrisk total clean-up.
ii. non-risk .
non-risk sites as a percentage of total
b. Total number of cleaned-up contaminated sites: clean-up.
I. highrisk .
non-conforming tanks as a
ii. non-risk
percentage of total number of
petroleum storage tanks.
2) Total number of underground petroleum storage tanks.
3) Number of mm-conforming tanks.

... -.
IU;l'.). .;:[L('.,:' \;,.." :Isue);{i';{;;') :
,.
::,.: Units
:"P'ti(C2ME'Lik)
Solid Waste (50% Reduction Target)
I) Total weight of municipal solid waste disposed in
. tonnes . percapita
landfills.
2) a Number of smalllandfills open (operating).
.
perannum
b. Number of large landfills open (operating).
c. Numberof smalllandfillsclosed.
d. Number of large landlills closed.
3) Number of monitored sites over totallandfill sites. . percentage
Hazardous.Wastes
I) a Number of disposal facilities. . tonnes .
capacity in weight per year.
b. Disposal facilities' total capacity.
2) Total amount of hazardous waste treated per annum.
. tonnes .
if possible, expressed as a percentage
of total generated.
Water Use
1) Daily municipal water use. . litres per day . oercapita
2) Water withdrawn by key economic sector: .
litres per day
a municipal;
b. agriculture;
c. manufacturing;
d. thermal power;
e. mining;and
f. other unaccounted water withdrawals.
3) Water consumption by key economic sector: . litres per day
. as a percentage of water intake and
a municipal; returned to the system.
b. agricultural;
c. manufacturing;
d. thermal powcr;
c. mining; and
f. other unaccountcd water 'consumption.
4) Municipal population on metered water. .
numher or pcople
. percentage of municipal population
on metered water.
...,'"
ill I
GROUP

Reference Document 6
1995 Strategic Overview
Draft
Appendix B
1995196 Budget

DRAFT
APPENDIX B
1995/96 BUDGET
For 1995/96, $3.233.000 was budgeted for total expenditures. Total administration and
overhead of $1.211.000 represented 37% of budgeted expenditures; total project budgets of
$2.022.000 were 63% of budgeted expenditures. as detailed below:
Group 1995/96 budget % of total budgeted
Hannonization $372.000 12%
EPC $839.500 26%
SPC $257,400 8%
NAICC (incl. Energy contrib.) $538.100 17%
Cleaner Vehic1esand Fuels $15.000
TOTAL PROJECTS $2.022,000 63%
TOTAL ADMIN. & OVERHD. $1.211.000 37%
TOT AL EXPENDITURE $3,233,000 100%
TOTAL REVENUE $2.641.000
Deficiency (from surplus) $592,000
Revised October 10, 1995 1995 Strategic Overview Page 16

Reference Document 7
CCME SOE Hannonization Workshop IV:
List of Participants

- -- ----
Participants:
Cynthia Baumgarten
Geoffrey Enns
Susan Ems
National Accounts and Environment Division, Environment Canada - Statistics
Canada
E.A.S. Environmental Auditing Systems - (Consultant, scribe)
Analyst, Resource Conservation Division, Environmental Conservation Branch,
Environment Canada - Prairie and Northern Division
Gord Greasley
Co-ordinator,
Strategic Planning Committee, CCME
Rosaline Frith
Julia Gardner
Tammy Gibson
Linda Hannah
Chair - CCME SOER Task Group, Director, Reporting Branch, State of the
Environment Directorate, Environmental Conservation Service, Environment
Canada
Dovetail Consulting Inc. - Presenter
Coordinator, SOE Reporting, Manitoba Environment
Acting Director, SOE Reporting, Corporate Policy, Planning and Legislation,
Ministry of Environment, Lands and Parks
B.C.
Ann Kerr
Emit Kucera
Director, Indicators Branch, SOE Directorate, Environmental Conservation Service,
Environment Canada
Senior Scientist, Manitoba Environment
Lynda Langford
Manager, Policy and Program Division, Policy and Public Involvement
Saskatchewan Environment and Resource Management
Branch,
Roger Lemire
Jacquie Manchevsky
Bruce Mitchell
Paul Quinn
Ilze Reiss
John Stager
Laurie Streich
Aniko Swjka-Pamell
Groupe de Coordination des bilans, Ministere de l'Environnement et de la Faune,
Gouvemement du Quebec
Marketing, Production, and Client Liaison, Marketing and Production Division,
SOE Directorate, Environmental Conservation Service, Environment Canada
National Accounts and Environment Division, Environment Canada - Statistics
Canada
Coordinator, National Reports, Environment Canada
Environmental Indicators Specialist, Indicators Branch, SOE Directorate,
Environmental Conservation Service, Environment Canada
Manager, Environmental Monitoring and Reporting Branch, Ministry of
Environment and Energy, Ontario
Coordinator, SOE Reporting, Manitoba Environment
Manager, Interdepartmental Coordination, Strategic Management, Alberta
Environmental Protection
Terry Zdan
Alberta Environmental
Protection