Natural Resources Canada (NRCan) is a department of the Government of Canada contributing to the sustainable development and use of natural resources. NRCan deals with natural resource issues that are important to Canadians. This means looking at these issues from both a national and international perspective.

NRCan recognizes that how Canadians manage their land and resources today determines their quality of life, both now and in the future. At the same time, NRCan looks to Canada's role in the global community. No nation can ensure the quality of life of its citizens in isolation from global issues.

NRCan's policies, and science and technology programs encourage sustainable development. Every effort is made to integrate economic, social and environmental objectives in decisions to develop Canada's natural resources. NRCan has been playing an increasingly active role at the international level. Promoting the sustainable development of the Earth's resources is in the interest of Canadians and all global citizens.

The steps that Canada has taken to advance sustainable development are tied to an evolving capacity for scientific and technological innovation that will continue to enhance a knowledge economy. Government has a role to play in fostering an environment that encourages innovation in relation to sustainable resource management. It is also important to communicate effectively about the policies and programs that advance sustainable development, and to integrate knowledge and technologies.

In pursuing this course, Canada has developed information resources and technical abilities that could be of benefit to other countries. From our approach to engaging stakeholders in the policy process, to technologies that can mitigate potentially detrimental environmental impacts from resource development, Canadian innovation can be transferred worldwide.

Together with domestic partners, international agencies and other nations, NRCan makes international agencies and other nations aware of Canadian products, services and technology. NRCan also has significant expertise in science and technology, policy, programs and approaches to market access. Providing opportunities to use this expertise in the service of international sustainable development is an important part of NRCan's international work.

NRCan continues to raise global awareness that sustainable development goes beyond simply sustaining the quality of life we now have—it is an opportunity to build a better quality of life for the future.