Progress in Pollution Prevention 2000-2001

Message from the Minister of the Environment

It is my pleasure to present the sixth annual report of the Government of Canada’ s Pollution Prevention Coordinating Committee (P2C2)-Progress in Pollution Prevention 2000-2001.

Pollution prevention is the cornerstone of the Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999 (CEPA 1999). It represents the Government of Canada’ s first order of defense against pollution and our most favorable option in achieving sustainable growth. Through implementation of pollution prevention concepts and principles, all Canadians can share in the protection of the environment and their health. The positive daily actions and decisions taken by Canadians can make a significant difference in sustaining our environment as a whole.

In 1995, the Government of Canada committed itself to the implementation of pollution prevention within its own government operations, cooperative pollution prevention activities with other levels of government and industry, and the demonstration of leadership and innovative pollution prevention actions with all Canadians, as well as with the international community. Since that time, the Government of Canada has reported to you annually on progress in meeting this commitment. This year ’ s "Progress in Pollution Prevention 2000-2001" highlights achievements for projects that either began or reached a major milestone in the period of April 2000 to March 2001.

The Government of Canada has made important progress in promoting pollution prevention within its departments and in engaging new partners to achieve environmental sustainability. For example, over 150 projects, funded by the Climate Change Action Fund program, contributed to raise the awareness of Canadians concerning climate change and to promote action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Also, the vehicle industry has achieved reduction of over 400, 000 tons of toxic and other substances as a result of a pollution prevention initiative. This year’s report illustrates the dedication and commitment that federal departments have made to the pursuit and adoption of a preventive environmental ethic in their own operations.

The breadth of this year's report acknowledges that the positive daily actions taken by all Canadians can make a difference in contributing to a cleaner and healthier environment.

Honourable David Anderson, P. C. MP
Minister of the Environment

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