A Framework for Canadian Leadership on International Oceans in support of our G7 Presidency

Description of Program, Policy or Program Proposal

This initiative offers a new forward plan for Canadian re-engagement, influence and leadership on the international oceans agenda through its G7 presidency, building on existing Canadian expertise in marine security, emergency response, ocean science, the sustainable management of fisheries, and oceans management. It proposes initiatives under 4 pillars: I) Resilient Coastal Communities; II) Healthy and Productive Oceans; III) Sustainable Fisheries and Coasts; and IV) Tackling Marine Litter (notably plastics).

The overall objective for this proposal is to address the pressures on the world’s oceans, ensure healthy and productive oceans and coasts, and secure the future of people dependent on them, including in developing states.

Summary of the strategic environmental assessment (SEA) results

A strategic environmental assessment was conducted in accordance with the 2010 Cabinet Directive on the Environmental Assessment of Policy, Plan and Program Proposals. A detailed analysis was conducted because the implementation of the proposal is expected to result in important environmental effects and support the goals and targets of the 2016-19 Federal Sustainable Development Strategy and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

This assessment indicated that the proposal will yield important positive global environmental effects for aquatic ecosystems through the promotion of sustainable fisheries practices, effective marine conservation, reduction of stressors on the marine environment including marine plastic litter and bolstered scientific outcomes to inform decision-making.

Linkages to the Goals of the Federal Sustainability Development Strategy

This proposal has an international focus and its initiatives are not intended to have substantial domestic impacts. However, their implementation would positively support the global application of several of the goals of the 2016-19 Federal Sustainable Development Strategy and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, including:

• Effective Action on Climate Change (SDG 12 – Responsible Consumption and Production, SDG 13 – Climate Action, and SDG 17 – Partnerships for the Goals)
• Safe and Healthy Communities (SDG 12 – Responsible Consumption and Production)
• Modern and Resilient Infrastructure (SDG 9 - Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure)
• Clean Energy (SDG 7 – Affordable and Clean Energy)
• Sustainable Food
• Clean Growth (SDG 9 – Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure)
• Healthy Coasts and Oceans (SDG 14 – Life Below Water)
• Healthy Wildlife Populations (SDG 15 – Life on Land)