The Convention requires developed countries to report on actions with the aim of returning their emissions of greenhouse gases to 1990 levels by the end of the decade. Actions are underway federally and in all provinces to limit greenhouse gas emissions. Current projections indicate that with no further action, Canada's emissions in the year 2000 will be 13 percent higher than in 1990, contingent on underlying assumptions about energy prices and economic growth. The National Action Program on Climate Change will help to close the stabilization gap, by developing measures, carrying out economic analysis and working internationally. In order to continue to close the gap, Federal, Provincial and Territorial Environment and Energy Ministers have agreed to proceed with the development of options that will meet Canada's current commitment to stabilize greenhouse gas emissions by the year 2000, and develop sustainable options to achieve further progress in the reduction of emissions by the year 2005.
Biodiversity is the variety, richness, and complexity of life that exists within nature.
Development is sustainable if it maintains this diversity. Some human activity is resulting in an unprecedented loss of biodiversity. Canada signed the United Nations Convention on Biological Diversity in June 1992 as part of the global response to this loss. The Canadian Biodiversity Strategy will set out the vision, goals, and strategic directions to guide the actions of governments and citizens in protecting Canada's vital interests and meeting its commitments under the Convention. A number of other agreements exist or are being negotiated, including those on acid rain, the transboundary transportation of hazardous substances, environment and trade, forestry and the management of high-seas fisheries.