The integration of the principles of sustainable development into NRCan operations is driven by key initiatives and policies as well as the overall legal environmental, health and safety regime of the federal government. As a result of the Leaders’ Forum on Sustainable Development held in April 2000, NRCan is co-leading a key initiative on Sustainable Development in Government Operations (SDGO).

SDGO builds on earlier commitments specified in the 1995 Guide to Green Government. It outlines seven priority areas that will help departments advance sustainable development. These actions include: procurement, waste management, water conservation, energy efficiency, vehicle fleet management, land use management, and human resources management.

Other key initiatives that are driving the sustainable development of NRCan operations include: the Canadian Environmental Protection Act; the Canadian Environmental Assessment Act; the Toxic Substances Management Policy; Pollution Prevention – A Federal Strategy for Action; the Canada Labour Code – Part II; Climate Change – House In Order Initiative; Greening Government Operations Policy; the Transportation of Dangerous Goods Act; and the Alternative Fuels Act.