CCME State of the Environment Reporting Harmonization Workshop ...

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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
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Page 3 and 4: CCME Background ExecudveSununtlTY..
Page 5 and 6: EXECUTIVES~ARY On October 23 and 24
Page 7 and 8: 1) INTRODUCTION The chair of the Ca
Page 9 and 10: F) Our strengths · Partnerships: -
Page 11 and 12: continue discussions and provide a
Page 13 and 14: To continue to evolve as a task gro
Page 15: . To identify if standard protocols
Page 19 and 20: Internet Demonstration - Guide to E
Page 21 and 22: . Data No work unless budget approv
Page 23 and 24: --------------..------ Environment
Page 25 and 26: Chanfes and Comments The changes an
Page 27 and 28: -- - - - 4.4 Standards and Procedur
Page 29 and 30: Reference Document 3 Alberta Propos
Page 31 and 32: Reference Document 4 Template for C
Page 33 and 34: Table 1 continued: Template for CCM
Page 35 and 36: Reference Document 5 CCMECoreIndica
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Page 39 and 40: DRAFT APPENDIX B 1995/96 BUDGET For
Page 41: - -- ---- Participants: Cynthia Bau

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