2. September 1987
Honourable Clifford Lincoln
President of the Canadian Council of
Resource and Environment Ministers
Dear Mr. Lincoln:
It is our pleasure to present the
Report of the National Task Force on
Environment and Economy to you, as
President of the Canadian Council of
Resource and Environment Ministers.
Our report contains recommenda-
tions for actions which we feel will
assist Canada in its efforts to integrate
environmental and economic decision
making. The Task Force members are
unanimous in their desire to ensure
that progress is made on this important
issue.
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2%
Gerard Lecuyer
Task Force Chairman
Roy Aitken
Task Force Vice-Chairman
Acknowledgements
The Task Force would like to gratefully
acknowledge the efforts of its Secreta-
riat in the preparation of this report.
The 22 member group was composed
of civil servants, corporate officials and
environmental interest groups repre-
sentatives, who all gave freely of their
time, talent and energy.
Litho’d in Canada

3. FOREWORD
NATIONAL TASK FORCE ON ENVIRONMENT AND ECONOMY
The National Task Force on Envi- on Environment and Development, and Members of the Task Force share a
ronment and Economy was established in particular, the special meeting of the common desire to improve upon exis-
by the Canadian Council of Resource World Commission with members of ting processes which result in economic
and Environment Ministers (CCREM) CCREM in Edmonton, Alberta, during and environmental decisions and to
in October 1986 to initiate dialogue on their visit. CCREM also asked the Task remove barriers to environmentally
environment-economy integration Force to consider the findings of the sound economic development. The
among Canada’s environment minis- World Conservation Strategy Confer- Task Force believes that sustainable
ters, senior executive officers from ence held in Ottawa in June 1986, economic development is central to
Canadian industry, and representatives where worldwide progress on conser- continued economic prosperity both
from environmental organizations and vation strategy development was within Canada and throughout the
the academic community. CCREM reviewed. world.
asked the Task Force to recommend The mandate of the Task Force has
actions and to report back in September been to foster and promote environ- Introdtiction .................... 1
1987. mentally sound economic development.
The Task Force was formed as a Task Force members have approached Towards Sustainable Economic
direct follow-up to the visit to Canada this mandate with recognition of and Development ................... 3
in May 1986 of the World Commission support for the main conclusions and
recommendations of the World Com- Informed Decision Making ...... 4
mission on Environment and Develop-
ment. In its final report, Our Common Leadership ...................... 6
Future, which was released in April
1987, the World Commission expressed Round Tables . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . IO
optimism that the world can solve its
environmental and economic develop- Conservation Strategies . . . . . . . . . 12
ment problems “in a more open, fair
and just manner in a new era of eco- International Responsibilities . . . . 14
nomic growth”.
Communications and
Education . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Follow up 1.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
2

4. INTRoDucnoN
IN TRUST FOR FUTURE GENERATIONS
This report contains ideas and These ideals cannot easily be put ronmental considerations are essential
recommendations into practice through
for bringing Canada’s political, social to social and economic planning, Can-
environment and continued economicand economic structures which have ada’s cabinet chambers and board
development into harmony. Our mainbeen designed for other purposes. The rooms must assume new responsibili-
objective is to promote principles of shared responsibility
environmentally and ties. We have made recommendations
sound economic growth and develop- integrated decision making must on leadership in government and indus-
become the foundation for try which reflect and reinforce these
our institutions and guide our responsibilities. We have also recogniz-
“All CQIU&,IIZS have a major U& to play in key decision makers. One of ed the leadership role played by non-
government organizations with respect
making sustainable development a reality.” the most important of our
recommendations proposes a to the early identification and public
Honourable Gerard Lecuyer
new cooperative initiative to debate on environmental issues.
Minister of Environment, Manitoba
integrate economic and envi- We are in basic agreement with the
report of the World Commission on
“It is time for government and business to :~~~~r~~~~p~~~~~~~~~~~eh Environment and Development, and
come together to deal with these issues.” of senior decision makers in have made recommendations to contin-
Roy Aitken every province and territory ue and to strengthen Canada’s role in
Executive Vice-President and at the national level in the international movement to inte-
Into Limited Canada. We have called for grate environmental protection and
the creation of Round Tables economic development. We have given
on Environment and Eco- our support to Canada playing an even
ment, not to promote either economic nomy, to provide a forum for these larger role in projects demonstrating
/
/ growth or environmental protection in decision makers to work towards a the linkage of economic and environ-
isolation. Complete integration of the consensus on this fundamental issue. mental concerns and in international
!
environment and the economy would We give support to the develop- negotiations and discussions dealing
I
be a tall order in any country; it is made ment of “conservation strategies” in with development and trade.
I
no easier by the complexities of the every Canadian jurisdiction. Our pri- We have made recommendations
/ Canadian mosaic. We believe, however, mary interest in such strategies is to to increase public participation through
/ that such integration is possible. In fact, use them as a basis for development better understanding of this issue. In
I
/ we believe it is absolutely necessary. which ensures that the utilization of particular, we have recommended that
/ With good will, leadership and new resources today does not damage the our children be given substantially
I
processes for decision making and plan- prospects of future generations for improved environmental education at
ning, we can meet our responsibility to maintaining or improving their use. We the elementary and high school levels,
future Canadians by managing care- are convinced that the problems of the along with a greater understanding of
fully and protecting the resources we past can be largely avoided by making the concept of sustainable economic
hold in trust for them. use of the technologies and knowledge development.
Our recommendations reflect the that we already possess or are now In formulating our recommend-
principles that we hold in common with developing. We, therefore, recommend ations, we have taken into account the
the World Commission on Environ- the development of conservation stra- different degrees of development and
ment and Development (WCED). These tegies as a valuable multisectoral different economic and environmental
include the fundamental belief that approach to defining and implementing circumstances in various jurisdictions in
environmental and economic planning sustainable economic development. Canada. The recommendations reflect a
cannot proceed in separate spheres. We have made specific recommen- consensus on the types of action which
I
, Long-term economic growth depends dations to explore tools and techniques should be considered in all parts of
! which can assist all of us to better Canada, recognizing the progress which
I on a healthy environment. It also
affects the environment in many ways. understand the linkages between the some jurisdictions have already made
Ensuring environmentally sound and environment and the economy. In this on several of our recommendations.
sustainable economic development way it will be increasingly possible to Implementation of the recommen-
I requires the technology and wealth that provide incentive systems which lead dations, in total, will require a commit-
I
,
is generated by continued economic more systematically to economically ment of significant money, time and
I
growth. Economic and environmental and environmentally sound effort. We urge the establishment of
, planning and management must there- development. funding and support mechanisms
,
fore be integrated. Given the recognition that envi- through relevant programs, donations
1 or endowments to foundations or other
methods of support. We acknowledge
I that we are only at the beginning of a
I
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long road leading towards a healthy and
I prosperous future. The time to start in
earnest is now.
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2
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I

5. TowARDs SUSTAINABLE ECONOMIC DEW~E~~ENT
ENVIRONMENT IS WHERE WE ALL WVE; DEVELOPMENT IS WHAT WE All DO.
The economy and its participants preservation of the current stock of Efforts have been made in Canada
exist within the environment, not out- natural resources or any particular mix to achieve sustainable economic deve-
side it; we cannot expect to maintain of human, physical and natural assets. lopment. The greatest weakness in
economic prosperity unless we protect Nor does it place artificial limits on eco- these efforts has been the sectoral
the environment and our resource base, nomic growth, provided that such approach to planning and development.
the building blocks of development. growth is both economically and envi- This too is starting to change, but the
Correspondingly, economic growth and ronmentally sustainable. Sus-
prosperity provide us with the capabil- tainable economic develop-
ity to support wise resource manage- ment implies that resources ‘It is not possible to have a sound economy
ment and protect environmental qua- and the environment must be without a healthy environment.”
lity. For this reason, we support the managed for the long term, Honourable Tom McMillan
goal of sustainable economic develop- taking into account their pos- Minister of Environment, Canada
ment, which we generally define as sible value in the future as
development
utilization
which ensures
of resources
that the
and the envi-
well as their value now.
“Environmental and economic concerns
Governments and indus-
ronment today does not damage pros- try have reacted to correct must go hand in hand. ”
pects for their use by future many of the problems created David Buzzelli
generations. by past mismanagement of Chairman and President
At the core of the concept of sus- the environment. Sustainable Dow Chemical Canada Inc.
tainable development is the require- economic development calls
ment that current practices should not for a different approach. It would process must be accelerated. Govern-
diminish the possibility of maintaining minimize environmental impact and ments increasingly recognize that they
or improving living standards in the future clean-up costs by advanced and -hold resources in trust for both present
future. This means that our economic integrated planning. In a phrase, the and future generations. Industry is
systems should be managed to maintain remedial, reactive approach would be increasingly working towards long-
or improve our resource and environ- replaced by “anticipate and prevent” as term environmental solutions. Limited
mental base so that the generations the dominant concept underlying progress to date by all sectors is a
that follow will be able to live equally environment-economy integration. reflection cf the complexity of the pro-
well or better. Sustainable economic The political and economic struc- blems and of structural limitations in
development does not require the tures of Canada and the world are our economic, sccial and political
awakening to the need to make econo- systems.
mic development sustainable. Decision The goal of sustainable economic
making has not yet adapted to fulfil1 development cannot be attained
this need. Change is necessary, and it without significant change in the way
must occur now. our economic initiatives are planned
and supervised. This makes it a challen-
ging goal, even more so in the Cana-
dian context because it will require dif-
ferent approaches in various economic
sectors and political jurisdictions across
the nation, although the same under-
lying principles should apply to every
jurisdiction.
3

6. INFORMED DECISlON MAKING
FINDING INCENTIVES FOR CHANGE
Regulations are a necessary part of efficient and effective pollution control Informed decision making can be
environmental management. As trus- and environmental protection techno- encouraged and demonstrated by prac-
tees of the environment, governments logies and practices. We must also seek tical examples. To indicate new direc-
must act with vigour to protect it. But to value environmental amenities such tions by concrete examples, we urge
regulation is only one element of the as recreational opportunities and aes- the use of demonstration projects (pro-
solution: Canada has a mixed economy, thetic attributes that contribute to jefs exempIificafeurs). These can be used to
quality of life. It is not appro- test new concepts or illustrate new
priate to quantify all intangi- methodologies, but most importantly,
“We must not just say but show that ble values in terms of dollars to prove that integrated environmental
the environment andfhe economy and cents, nor is it appro- and economic planning can work effec-
priate to base all decisions tively. Many such projects already exist
m ust work toget her. ”
solely on cost-benefit analy- and should be given greater recogni-
Honourable Clifford Lincoln
sis. Methods do exist, how- tion. New projects should be developed
Minister of Environment, Quebec
ever, which can be used to where opportunities exist and these
“Agreement on . problem definition is apply economic weights or should be communicated to the public
values to environmental and shared with other jurisdictions and
cruFia1 to a successfd outcome. ” resources, attributes, effects industries.
Ian Smyth
and benefits which are not To establish new measures of
President otherwise bought and sold. success, we urge that outstanding
Canadian Petroleum Association
We should use these methods achievements in environmentally sound
where they make sense and economic development be formally
and the market system with its energy where they can contribute to fair and recognized and widely publicized.
and technological creativity must also equitable decision making. Awards of excellence and demonstra-
contribute to the solution. In order to We must improve our ability to tion projects can be among the initia-
do this, we must develop new tools and forecast the impact of new kinds of tives considered by the proposed Round
techniques for informed decision development and new industrial pro- Tables on Environment and Economy.
making. cesses and products. Technological
We must strengthen our data base innovation can pose threats to the
on resource distribution and environ- workplace and the environment, but it
mental quality, and we must share such can also be used to enhance workplace
data more efficiently and more quickly safety and environmental quality. The
between jurisdictions. We strongly sup- development of new processes and
port efforts to develop state of the techniques which make less use of
environment reporting at the provin- hazardous materials or control them
cial, territorial and national levels as a better must be a priority. Incentives to
primary means of sharing our data and increase the likelihood of such deve-
communicating effectively to the public lopments should be put in place. In a
on the use and quality of our resources new era of economic growth, the deve-
and environment. lopment of clean industrial technology
We must further explore and deve- will be essential. Clean technology and
lop methods for the valuation of the research and expertise which it
resources such as water, soil and requires represent an important com-
forests. We must explore the pricing of ponent of the growing “environmental”
these resources and review the practice economic sector.
of discounting future benefits and costs
in order to factor the needs of future
generations into present development
decisions. Pricing mechanisms can be
used to ensure that costs are equitably
distributed, and can induce both public
and private sector agencies to adopt
4

7. INFORMED DECISION MAUNG
FINDING INCENTIVES FOR CHANGE
Regulations are a necessary part of efficient and effective pollution control Informed decision making can be
environmental management. As trus- and environmental protection techno- encouraged and demonstrated by prac-
tees of the environment, governments logies and practices. We must also seek tical examples. To indicate new direc-
must act with vigour to protect it. But to value environmental amenities such tions by concrete examples, we urge
regulation is only one element of the as recreational opportunities and aes- the use of demonstration projects (pro-
solution: Canada has a mixed economy, thetic attributes that contribute to jets exemplificateurs). These can be used to
quality of life. It is not appro- test new concepts or illustrate new
priate to quantify all intangi- methodologies, but most importantly,
“We must not just - say but show that ble values in terms of dollars to prove that integrated environmental
the environment and the economy Y
and cents, nor is it appro- and economic planning can work effec-
must work together. ” priate to base all decisions tively. Many such projects already exist
solely on cost-benefit analy- and should be given greater recogni-
Honourable Clifford Lincoln
sis. Methods do exist, how- tion. New projects should be developed
Minister of Environment, Quebec
ever, which can be used to where opportunities exist and these
“Agreement on problem definition is apply economic weights or should be communicated to the public
values to environmental and shared with other jurisdictions and
crGa1 to a successful outcome. ” resources, attributes, effects industries.
1 . .
Ian bmyth
and benefits which are not To establish new measures of
President
otherwise bought and sold. success, we urge that outstanding
Canadian Petroleum Association
We should use these methods achievements in environmentally sound
where they make sense and economic development be formally
and the market system with its energy where they can contribute to fair and recognized and widely publicized.
and technological creativity must also equitable decision making. Awards of excellence and demonstra-
contribute to the solution. In order to We must improve our ability to tion projects can be among the initia-
do this, we must develop new tools and forecast the impact of new kinds of tives considered by the proposed Round
techniques for informed decision development and new industrial pro- Tables on Environment and Economy.
making. cesses and products. Technological
We must strengthen our data base innovation can pose threats to the
on resource distribution and environ- workplace and the environment, but it
mental quality, and we must share such can also be used to enhance workplace
data more efficiently and more quickly safety and environmental quality. The
between jurisdictions. We strongly sup- development of new processes and
port efforts to develop state of the techniques which make less use of
environment reporting at the provin- hazardous materials or control them
cial, territorial and national levels as a better must be a priority. Incentives to
primary means of sharing our data and increase the likelihood of such deve-
communicating effectively to the public lopments should be put in place. In a
on the use and quality of our resources new era of economic growth, the deve-
and environment. lopment of clean industrial technology
We must further explore and deve- will be essential. Clean technology and
lop methods for the valuation of the research and expertise which it
resources such as water, soil and requires represent an important com-
forests. We must explore the pricing of ponent of the growing “environmental”
these resources and review the practice economic sector.
of discounting future benefits and costs
in order to factor the needs of future
generations into present development
decisions. Pricing mechanisms can be
used to ensure that costs are equitably
distributed, and can induce both public
and private sector agencies to adopt
4

8. RECOMMENDATIONS
To enhance understanding of the - Information generation and reporting 1.5 Greater resources must be
linkages between the environment and systems such as state of the environ- dedicated to cooperative research and
the economy, the Task Force makes the ment reporting. the development of common data bases
following recommendations: - Improved techniques for the valua- by governments and industry.
1.1 Government, industry, acade- tion of environmental stresses and the 1.6 Special emphasis is required on
mic and other non-government organiz- benefits of environmental protection. research into and promotion of waste
ations should develop new tools and - Economic incentives which promote disposal and recycling, as well as envir-
improve existing tools which achieve effective environmental protection by onmental clean-up and enhancement
more efficient and effective envir - business. technologies and techniques.
onment-economy integration. These 1.7 More research is needed on
1.2 Government, industry and non-
tools should include consideration of, the concept of sustainable economic
government organizations should use
and where appropriate, application of: development and the linkages between
multipartite processes to deal with spe-
- Analytical methodologies and techni- cific issues, projects or programs. economic development and the envir-
ques such as cost-benefit analysis, risk onment so that we can better under-
1.3 Various jurisdictions and eco-
assessment, and increased use of envir- stand those linkages and apply data and
nomic research organizations, such as
onmental impact assessment. information to make better decisions.
the Economic Council of Canada,
- Economic mechanisms such as should explore opportunities and pric- 1.8 Specific projects demonstrating
contaminant charge schemes, trade- ing mechanisms for promoting efficient environment-economy integration (pro-
able emission/discharge rights, financial resource utilization and environmental $5 exumplifirafrurs) should be developed
assurance and performance deposits, quality. and implemented, with multisectoral
investment tax credits, credits for involvement, in every province/
1.4 A system for measuring the
exceeding environmental standards, territory and at the national level.
contribution of the environment sector,
and reduced interest bonds. including natural resources, to the 1.9 Outstanding work on
national economy and national wealth environment-economy integration and
should be developed, drawing upon the environmental excellence should be
work of existing organizations (e.g. the recognized by awards. The proposed
Economic Council of Canada, Statistics Round Tables should make these
Canada). awards annually. The Round Tables
should also identify projects which suc-
cessfully integrate environment and
economic development, and communic-
ate these projects to the public.

9. __---~ - -___I___--- ._--___-.- ._._.
---- .--- - --__-_..
LEADERSHIP
RECOGNIZING RESPONSlBIUTlES
In a new era of environmentally The First Ministers regularly resources and protect the environment.
sound economic development, a full address economic development issues at All corporations should adopt codes of
partnership of governments, industry, federal-provincial conferences. Envir- practice which enshrine this
non-government organizations and the onmental issues should have compar- responsibility.
general public must guide us through able and closely linked prominence. Industry leaders recognize the
an integrated approach to environment Such top level coordination must also direct benefits of reduced clean-up and
take place at the highest remedial costs and the indirect benefits
levels within governments. in quality of life to be achieved by envir-
“Without environmental securitv, there This includes cabinet commit- onmentally sound economic develop-
can be no economic security, and leadership tees and key economic deve- ment. What is best for the environ-
lopment committees. These ment, however, may represent an
is required to make this a reality. I’ committees must accent and expensive policy for individual corpora-
Honourable Jim Bradley understand the interdipen- tions if their competitors are achieving
Minister of Environment, Ontario dence of the economy and the lower costs by ignoring environmental
environment. standards. In such cases governments
“Let’s treat Canada as if we plan to stay.” Increasingly, industry have a role to play in promoting fair
Susan Holtz finds that environmental and competition and ensuring environment-
Ecology Action Centre economic benefits can be al protection. Such government action
complementary. At times, rests upon a foundation of support by
however, environmental industry, non-government organiza-
and economy. Environmental organiza- benefits entail substantial expenditures, tions and, ultimately, the people of
tions will continue to fulfil1 an impor- and this should be recognized as a cost Canada.
tant role as advocates for the environ- of doing business. In both cases, corpor-
ment. Governments and industry, ations show leadership by fulfilling
however, must develop and assume their responsibility to conserve
new responsibilities to successfully
integrate environmental considerations
into economic planning.
Governments act as trustees of the
resources we will pass on to future
generations. Governments must there-
fore exercise comprehensive and far-
sighted leadership in supporting and
promoting sustainable economic deve-
lopment. Governments can supplement
regulatory control with incentive
mechanisms. They can open planning
processes to participation by groups
which have a stake in development
decisions. They can strive for harmony
in environmental standards and pro-
cesses across the country.
In accepting this responsibility,
governments will have to change the
way they approach the environment
and the economy. They must integrate
environmental input into decision
making at the highest level. Environ-
mental considerations cannot be an
add-on, an afterthought. They must be
made integral to economic policy
making and planning and a required
element of any economic development
proposal.
6

10. Industry associations can achieve Associations can also contribute to the past decade, moreover, environmental
better integration of environmental environmental consciousness of small organizations have evolved considera-
and economic concerns by adopting to medium sized firms, which may bly in sophistication and capability.
codes of practice to govern and guide lack the resources to retain environ- Many of these organizations have
industrial decision making. Codes of mental specialists, by sharing infor- drawn membership and expertise
practice can be used to establish mation on links between the envi- from the industry and government
internal goals and performance stan- ronment and the economy. sectors. Labour organizations have
dards for industry on environmental The Task Force acknowledges similarly given increased priority to
matters which go beyond minimum that leadership takes many forms. workplace safety and health condi-
regulatory requirements while main- While industry and governments are tions and have become strong support-
taining sensitivity to costs and other major economic decision makers and ers of environmental causes. Abori-
economic factors. Industry is best able must show leadership in investment ginal groups are a major force calling
to assess its own capabilities and decisions and economic policy making for conservation and the preservation
opportunities and should be given and planning, environmental organi- of cultural and heritage resources.
incentives and recognition for improv zations are leaders in the early re- These trends are welcome and indi-
ing environmental performance. cognition of and public debate on cate that we can move into a new era
environmental issues. Over the of cooperation and partnership which
makes both economic and environ-
mental sense.

11. To encourage leadership in 2.2 Environment Ministers should - Ensuring that all government pro-
environment-economy decision making, be members of key economic develop- cesses for screening, review and evalua-
the Task Force makes the following ment and priorities and planning com- tion of economic development projects
recommendations: mittees of cabinet, or be closely associa- include both socio-economic and envi-
ted, by appropriate mechanisms, with ronmental criteria.
Government these committees. Where this is not - Ensuring that every major report on
2.1 The First Ministers must already the,case, it should be implemen- economic development, and every rela-
assume an overall leadership role and ted on or before September 1988. In ted cabinet document, demonstrates
demonstrate a commitment to addition, Environment Ministers must that the proposal or activity is economi-
environment-economy integration by: have sufficient resources to support cally and environmentally sound.
- Directing that cabinet documents and government initiatives on integration
- Ensuring that all government pro-
major government economic develop- of environment and economy.
grams which give funding or loan guar-
ment documents demonstrate that they 2.3 Environment Ministers, antees to industry are conditional on
are economically and environmentally through CCREM, should continue their meeting environmental standards.
sound and therefore sustainable. work towards the harmonization of - Meeting regularly to discuss
- Discussing environment-economy environmental standards and legislation environment-economy integration.
integration at First Ministers’ and the streamlining of processes such
- Taking specific steps to open envi-
Conferences. as environmental assessment across
ronmental, resource and economic
- Ensuring that all levels and depart- Canada. This issue should be consider-
development policy making and plan-
ments of government establish consul- ed by CCREM in September 1988, and
ning to greater public input.
tation processes which encourage and should include public and private sector
consultation and involvement. - Including methods for incorporating
facilitate public involvement and
environmental assessment in all
influence in policy making and planning 2.4 All Ministers must become
federal-provincial economic develop-
processes. directly responsible and accountable for
ment agreements.
Establishing formal mechanisms to the environmental and economic
consequences of their policies, legisla- - Developing federal-provincial agree-
hold M’inisters and their departments
tion and programs. This can be accom- ments directed specifically at sustain-
accountable for promoting environ-
plished, in part, by the following activi- able economic development.
mentally sound economic development.
ties and mechanisms:
- Developing an environmental code of
ethics and principles, including princi-
ples of prior notification and consulta-
tion, which will provide guidance on the
management of environmental matters
among governments in Canada.
8

12. Industry 2.8 Companies which have an should make a special effort to inform
impact on the environment should their members on environment-
2.5 The Business Council on economy linkages and should assist
provide their boards of directors with
National Issues and the Canadian them in gaining the skills and techni-
annual reviews on environmental per-
Chamber of Commerce should form cal expertise necessary to operate
formance and the implementation of
environment-economy task forces to accordingly. Industry associations are
their environmental principles and
provide leadership to the business encouraged to form specific commit-
policies, in order to ensure that those
community on environment-economy tees or other mechanisms to deal with
responsible for corporate direction are
integration. This would be in keeping environment-economy integration.
fully informed.
with the recommendation that the Associations and large companies pos-
2.9 Industry, in every province
First Ministers discuss this issue at sessing environmental expertise
and territory, should participate fully
First Ministers’ Conferences. should share their knowledge and
in the proposed Round Tables on
2.6 Industry associations, on skills with small and medium sized
Environment and Economy.
behalf of their members, should business and with other associations
2.10 Industry should, as a matter
endorse and support environmental and companies.
of principle, seek to operate responsi-
assessment as an integral part of the 2.12 Industry should support
bly in all jurisdictions, domestic and
decision making process. Every effort ongoing research into tools and
foreign, taking all reasonable precau-
should be made to cooperate with mechanisms to promote environment-
tions so that its operations are consis-
governments in their efforts to har- economy integration.
tent with environmental protection
monize and streamline environmental
and sustainable economic 2.13 Industry should support and
assessment processes across Canada.
development. participate in the recommended
2.7 Individual companies should National Conference on Sustainable
adopt and implement environmental 2.11 Industry and trade associa-
Development in 1989 or 1990, and in
tions, such as the Canadian Pulp and
principles and policy guidelines such the United Nations global conference
as those prepared by the International Paper Association, the Mining Asso-
on environment and development
ciation of Canada, the Canadian
Chamber of Commerce. Special proposed by the World Commission
Chemical Producers’ Association, and
efforts should be made by industry on Environment and Development.
the Canadian Petroleum Association,
and trade associations to encourage
small and medium sized business to
adopt such principles and guidelines.

13. ROUND
TABLES
AN OPEN AND INTEGRATED PROCESS
During this century human acti- demand for information and involve- We recommend a new process of
vity and technological capability have ment. Government and corporate deci- consultation which will involve senior
grown vastly and widened the scope sion making processes have had to decision makers from these diverse
and complexity of resulting social, eco- change to meet this demand. groups. This process must involve indi-
nomic and environmental problems. The desire for participation viduals who exercise influence over
There has been a rapid growth in extends beyond specific projects. It policy and planning decisions and who
includes an interest in the can bring information and different
planning and policy making views to the debate. The process should
“The Round Table approach is an that affect the country’s envi- be designed to work towards consensus
excellenf means of safeguarding both ronmen ta1 and economic and to exert direct influence on policy
the environment and industry. ” future. Many sectors of and decision makers at the highest
Canadian society, embodying levels of government, industry and
David Morton
different interests, want a non-government organizations. Accor-
President and Chief Operating Officer
Alcan Aluminium meaningful role in these fun- dingly, we recommend the establish-
damental processes. These ment of Round Tables on Environment
“There is a wholesome change occurring groups include environmental and Economy.
organizations, labour, small The Round Tables are intended to
in environmental decision m&q. ” business, academics and abo- be forums in which senior decision
Charles Mallory riginal peoples among others. makers can meet to candidly discuss
Vice-President, S.T.O.P. There are many points of environment-economy issues and make
view and many interests in recommendations directly to the First
‘There is tremendous potential for economic and environmental Ministers of their respective jurisdic-
a new kind of decision- making..” issues. Each of these is impor- tions. Round Tables should also report
Adam H. Zimmerman tant. No single point of view, their conclusions directly to the public.
Chairman, Noranda Forest Inc. in isolation, can adequately Each province and territory should
reflect the complexity of the have its own Round Table, drawn from
interests involved. senior decision makers in the groups in
its jurisdiction which have significant
interest and expertise in environmental
and economic issues, including:

14. government; industry, both large and strategy development, special reports Of all our recommendations, we
small; environmental organizations; or demonstration projects (projets exem- consider Round Tables to be among the
labour; academia; and aboriginal peo- plifirafwrs). The Round Tables could most important. Their implementation
ples. Each Round Table should reflect also review progress on state of the and success are fundamental to the
in its makeup the unique environment environment reporting. achievement of environmentally sound
and economy of its province or terri- economic development in Canada.
tory. A national Round Table, draw-
ing most of its membership
provincial and terrtorial
from the
Round
RECOMMENDATIONS
Tables, can bring issues and ideas to
the national agenda and provide a To create a permanent forum in 3.2 Concurrent with the forma-
national perspective on regional which all sectors can meet to cooperate tion of provincial and territorial Round
issues. Chairpersons for all Round on preventive strategies and to Tables, a national Round Table should
Tables should be appointed by and influence planning, the Task Force be formed from representatives of
should report to the First Ministers of makes the following recommendations: these Round Tables, with additional
their jurisdictions. All Round Tables 3.1 Each province and territory members added from the federal cabi-
should include environment, resource, should form a multisectoral Round net and national non-government
and economic development ministers. Table on Environment and Economy organizations, labour, academic and
Round Tables are not proposed to to bring existing organizations toge- business associations as appropriate.
challenge the authority of any exis- ther to cooperate on environment- The Chairperson of the national Round
ting office or institution. Instead, they economy integration at the provincial Table should be appointed by and
would exert influence, founded on and territorial levels. Members of report to the Prime Minister.
their credibility, their independence CCREM, in consultation with their
and their access to the views of cabinet colleagues, should take the ini-
important sectors and levels of tiative to form the Round Tables. The
society. Depending on the needs and Chairperson of each Round Table
desires of each jurisdiction, the Round should be appointed by and report to
Tables’ mandates might include over- the First Minister of the jurisdiction
seeing and advising on major studies, in which it is formed. The Round
Tables should be fully operational in
every province and territory by Sep-
tern ber 1988.
11

15. CONSERVATIoN
STRATEGlES
BLUEPRlN7-S FOR SUSTAINABLE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Population growth, technological Consultation and participation can Different conservation strategies
innovations and the increasing demands help overcome these difficulties. Based may be required to adapt the principle
on resource use have made it impera- on the initiation of a broad dialogue of sustainable economic development to
tive to develop plans for the rational between various interests, the process different jurisdictions. Each jurisdic-
management and protection of living of conservation strategy development is tion’s strategy will draw upon the
resources. The purpose of such plans is itself a mechanism for building a expertise of appropriate sectors and
consensus to support integra- interests and will reflect prevailing
“Consentation sfralegies are essenfial ted management of our regional conditions. Each may differ in
resources. The creation of content, but all should agree on under-
components of broad based economic Round Tables on Environ- lying principles. We recommend that
development strafegies. ” ment and Economy can help CCREM prepare a compendium of
Honourable David Porter facilitate and focus the build- Canadian experiences in developing
Minister of Renewable Resources, Yukon ing of this consensus. conservation strategies to aid in reach-
Environmental and ing a common understanding and
“Environmental conservation and economic conservation organizations commitment to this effort.
development not only can co-exist, have played a leading role in We strongly recommend a process
Canada in the effort to deve- of consultation between jurisdictions as
they must co-exisf, for one is a lop conservation strategies. they prepare their strategies. In this
condition of the other.”
/ This effort must now become way, provincial and national strategies
Dr. Donald Chant much broader in scope. can reflect and build upon the ecosys-
Chairman and President Governments are showing tems which underlie economic activity,
Ontario Waste Management Corporation increasing interest in moving in addition to their emphasis on indivi-
forward in this area. This - dual resource sectors.
to ensure that our renewable resource interest must be extended to ensure We confirm that conservation stra-
base is sustained for future utilization, that environment, resource and eco- tegies are a vital part of the integration
and to ensure that we preserve genetic nomic ministries become active partici- of the environment and the economy in
diversity and maintain essential ecologi- pants. Industry has a specific and neces- policy and decision making. We urge
cal processes and life support systems. sary role to play in participating in the commitment from all Canadian
Such plans are called conservation stra- debate and influencing its outcome to governments to arrive at conservation
tegies. They are frameworks for judi- permit continued private sector econo- strategies, and we call on non-
cious use of our renewable resources mic activity and development on a sus- government organizations and industry
and can be used as blueprints for sus- tainable basis. We cannot overempha- to guide policy makers to make conser-
tainable economic development in the size the importance of securing vation strategies a reality.
renewable resource sector. industry’s commitment to and support
It will not be easy to relate the glo- for the conservation strategy process.
bal concepts of the World Conservation
Strategy to Canada’s diverse jurisdic-
tions. The difficulties of reconciling
competing interests in a conservation
strategy are compounded by the need
to understand and work within ecosys-
tems, as well as within the resource
sectors and political boundaries that
outline familiar patterns of Canadian
policy making.

16. RECOMMENDATIONS
To develop effective and coordina- 4.3 In the next two years, provin- 4.5 Non-government organiza-
ted conservation strategies across cial and territorial governments should tions and industry should:
Canada, the Task Force makes the fol- organize workshops and seminars on - Participate in the planning, design
lowing recommendations: conservation strategies, with progress and implementation of the public invol-
4.1 Provincial and territorial to be reviewed at a major National vemen t component of developing
governments should assume responsibi- Conference *on Sustainable Develop- conservation strategies.
lity for the coordination and develop- ment in 1989 or 1990.
- Conduct and participate in work-
ment of conservation strategies in their 4.4 Every province and territory shops, seminars and annual meetings
jurisdictions. should have a conservation strategy in focusing on components of the conser-
4.2 CCREM, in consultation with place by 1992. A national strategy vation strategy appropriate to their
industry and non-government organi- should be prepared which integrates organizations.
zations, should prepare a compendium the provincial and territorial strategies
- Be prepared to develop briefs or dis-
of Canadian experiences in developing and links them to the international
cussion papers about specific aspects of
conservation strategies by September scene. This work should be presented
sustainable development, as part of
1988. The compendium will aid jurisdic- by Canada at the U.N. global confer-
policy development processes.
tions in working out procedures and ence on environment and development
proposed by the World Commission on - Provide assistance and advice regard-
protocols for the development and inte-
ing the coordination and integration of
gration of conservation strategies. Environment and Development.
resource management across sectors
and political jurisdictions.

17. INTERNATIONAL
RESPONSIB~-IES
TOWARDS GLOBAL lNTEGRATION OF ENVIRONMENT AND DEVELOPMENT PLANNING
The recommendations of this Task dependent industries, are strengths ened policy statement commits CIDA
Force are consistent with those of the which should be shared with other to sustainable development initiatives
World Commission on Environtnent nations. The expertise and technology by requiring environmental impact
and Development. Like the World exist in many areas; we need only find assessments of all projects financed by
Commission, we have concentrated on mechanisms to facilitate their adapta- CIDA and more emphasis on funding
issues of structural change in the belief tion and use in Canada and in other of projects that enhance the environ-
countries. The development ment. Another important role may be
“Canada has an obliaation to share of these mechanisms could be played by Canadian representatives to
a task for consideration by multilateral development agencies such
its expertise in the puktrit of sustainable
.. the national Round Table on as the World Bank. They can influence
. .
development. ” Environment and Economy. financing decisions in favour of envi-
Honourable Ken Kowalski In its bilateral aid deci- ronmentally and economically sound
Minister of Environment, Alberta sions, Canada can exert an development projects, thus complemen-
even more direct influence to ting the many initiatives essential to
“Canada has the opportunity to sewe as enhance environmentally making sustainable economic develop-
Q role model forglobal integration responsible planning. A signi- ment a reality.
of development policy. ” ficant and promising policy
Lloyd McGinnis initiative by the Canadian
Chairman of the Board International Development
Canadian Chamber of Commerce Agency (CIDA) has already
been announced. This enlight-
that by changing the process it is possi-
ble to change the outcome. Our
recommendations parallel those of the
World Commission in the whole area of
structural integration to bring the sec-
tors together and in urging that eco-
nomic development ministers be made
responsible for the environmental
implications of their decisions.
Ecosystems extend across in terna-
tional boundaries. Major environmental
problems, such as the greenhouse effect
caused by carbon dioxide emissions
from burning fossil fuel and damage to
the ozone layer, are truly global, both
in cause and effect. Similarly, the global
economy is interdependent. Actions or
conditions in one jurisdiction can affect
social and economic conditions in an-
other. For these reasons we share with
the World Commission a conviction
that global sustainable economic deve-
lopment can only be reached by nations
working cooperatively for a common
future.
Canada should both share its
expertise and learn from others in the
international effort to attain sustainable
economic development. Canadian skills
in environmental impact assessment
and planning, and in resource-
14

18. We note the progress made inter- The integration of environmental tally, to provide an example to the rest
nationally by industry through such and economic decision making, if it is to of the world on how this integration
efforts as the World Industry Confer- lead to sustainable development, must be might be carried out. Canada must do
ence on Environmental Management global in nature. Canada has an oppor- more than just show its support at the
(WICEM), held in 1984 in Versailles, tunity and a challenge to work with U.N. General Assembly. It must
France. The pioneering role played by other nations to implement the World demonstrate a commitment to work
the International Chamber of Com- Commission concept and, more specifi- with the world community.
merce (ICC) resulted in a set of Envi-
ronmental Guidelines
try in 1974, with revisions
for World Indus-
made in
RECOMMENDATIONS
1981 and 1986. These guidelines
To continue and to strengthen Cana- 5.3 Canada should explore and
contain a basic statement of principles,
da’s role in the international movement promote mechanisms to ensure that
as well as guidelines for industrial oper-
to integrate environmental protection environmentally sound economic deve-
ations, relationships between industry
and economic development, the Task lopment is an important component in
and public authorities, and relationships
Force makes the following international discussions and negotia-
between industry and society.
recommendations: tions dealing with development and
A further significant step was
trade. Canada should also ensure that
taken bv the ICC in 1986, with the 5.1 Canada should show leader-
each international development project
formation of the International Envi- ship in the development of internation-
in which it participates is environmen-
ronmental Bureau (IEB). The IEB func- al programs by carrying out projects
tally and economically sustainable.
tions as an international trans-industry which demonstrate the environment-
clearinghouse on environmental man- economy link. (For example, projects on 5.4 Canada should ensure that its
agement information. The progress forest, water or soil management; representatives on multilateral deve-
made by the ICC in recognizing effects of climate change.) lopment bodies strive to have envi-
environment-economy linkages is ronmental and economic sustainability
5.2 In the global discussion on sus-
encouraging. Canadian industry should built into the policies and procedures of
tainable development initiated by the
make every effort to participate in and these organizations.
report of the World Commission on
support the IEB. Environment and Development, 5.5 Canada should provide support
Canada should share its experiences to the recommendation of the World
with the world community on how to Commission on Environment and
integrate environmental and economic Development that there be a U.N. glo-
decision making. bal conference on environment and
development.

19. 1 I-_-_. _ .._ _- ._-_,_ -_ --- .-.--A--“... “----.-.-l
COMMUNICATIONSEDUCATION
AND
MOBIllZlNG PUBUC SUPPORT AND PREPARING OUR FUTURE DECISION MAKERS
The support of the Canadian public The proposal for a Year of the and cultural aspects of this goal
is an essential part of environment- Environment in Canada would require brought up-to-date and given profile.
economy integration. A high level of extensive planning. The concept behind Many other ideas can and should be
public awareness and concern over the this proposal is that a major effort included in this initiative, especially
deterioration of environmental qualitywould be organized to bring environ- those which the proposed Round
exists, as evidenced by public opinion mental and economic issues to the Tables on Environment and Economy
attention of every Canadian. might develop.
This would include extensive
“An informed populace will accelerate As a Task Force we also identified
media coverage, commission- a need for education at all levels of
environment-economy integration. ” ed books and articles, televi- society. The importance of educating
Honourable Laird Stirling sion programs, school pro- our children to the new economic and
Minister of Environment, Nova Scotia grams, workshops, open environmental realities cannot be
houses and a host of-other overstated. We believe that our children
“We must tru to ensure that the next activities throughout the should have a better understanding of
the environment so they can treat it
with respect when they become deci-
sion makers in their own right. School
curricula must be changed to enhance
understanding of how the environment
and the economy affect each other.
Young Canadians will then learn how
their future well-being depends upon
that interaction. We recognize that cur-
riculum changes cannot be achieved
overnight in ten provinces and two ter-
ritories. Nevertheless, we urge that
change begin now if our children are to
emerge from school, a decade hence,
better prepared to participate in and
influence integrated decision making.
A communications strategy with
an extended time horizon and adequate
support is required to bring the level of
depth and coherence to this issue that is
warranted. Accordingly, we recom-
mend the design and implementation of
d major communications/participation
program to promote an understanding
of and i,litiate a national dialogue on
the importance of environment-
economy integration. As part of this
program, 1989 or 1990 should be des-
ignated as “Year of the Environment in
Canada” with sustainable economic
development as the central theme. The
program should be jointly designed,
supported and implemented by
governments, industry, labour and non-
government organizations and should
make maximum use of the advice of the
Round Tables on Environment and
Economy.
16

20. RECOMMENDATIONS
To increase public understanding economy integration. This program 6.2 CCREM members, in concert
and participation, the Task Force makes should be jointly designed and suppor- with education ministers and the
the following recommendations: ted by government, industry and non- Round Tables, should design an action
6.1 CCREM, in cooperation with government organizations and should plan to substantially upgrade environ-
the Task Force and the proposed Round include two major events: mental education. Special attention
Tables, should design and implement a - 1989 or 1990 being designated the should be given to the elementary and
major communications/public participa- Year of the Environment in Canada, junior high levels. Environmental eco-
tion program to promote understand- with sustainable economic development nomics and, in particular, the concept of
ing and initiate a national dialogue on as the central theme, and sustainable economic development,
the importance of environment- - CCREM hosting a major National should be incorporated into high school
Conference on Sustainable Develop- and undergraduate studies.
mentin 1989 or 1990.
FOLLOW UP
AN AGENDA FOR CHANGE
This Task Force has set in motion To ensure that the changes which In the interim, we invite comment
certain processes that we believe will we have recommended get underway, and debate on our recommendations, so
bring solutions within our reach. Once and to provide continuity until the that CCREM can receive a comprehen-
begun, these processes will inevitably Round Tables on Environment and sive and balanced overview and pro-
call for change and further progress. Economy are established, we ask for an gress report at its 1958 Annual
We cannot overstate the importance of opportunity to serve further. We there- Meeting.
moving forward on the agenda which fore ask that CCREM extend the man-
has been laid out, despite the uncertain- date of the Task Force by one year to
ties attached to setting new processes permit us to report on the progress
in motion. made on our recommendations.
RECOMMENDATIONS
To follow up on the recommenda- 7.2 CCREM should extend the For further information on the
tions made in this report, the Task mandate of the Task Force until Sep- work of the National Task Force on
Force makes the following tember 1988, so that the Task Force Environment and Economy, please
recommendations: can review progress by all sectors in contact:
7.1 Each province, territory and implementing the recommendations Canadian Council of Resource
the federal government should develop made in this report. and Environment Ministers
an action plan showing how it will 7.3 CCREM should widely distri- 4905 Dufferin Street
implement the recommendations of the bute the Task Force Report and invite Downsview, Ontario
Task Force. comment and public debate on its M3H 5T4
recommendations. Telephone: (416) 739-4695
7.4 CCREM should prepare an
evaluation of the effectiveness of the
Task Force’s recommendations and
their implementation. The evaluation
report should be presented at the 1989
CCREM Annual Meeting.