These benefits contribute to Sustainable Job Creation and Economic Growth. In the 1990s, increasing emphasis has been placed on exploratory activities designed to apply emerging strategic technologies to both departmental and sector needs. RSAs are undertaken mostly by the operating groups, and are executed at test facilities such as the Air Traffic Services Research and Experimental Centre and the Motor Vehicle Test Centre. Sector activities were the principal focus in the 1970s, when Transport Canada first set up its Transportation Development Centre. In the 1990s, increasing emphasis has been placed on exploratory activities designed to apply emerging strategic technologies to both departmental and sector needs.
Projects cover the entire innovation spectrum from concept development to demonstration.
Projects and activities have frequently complemented those in the private sector and have had a very positive socio-economic impact. It will also retain certain program responsibilities, such as ensuring affordable transportation to Canada's remote communities. Since the new department will no longer have significant operations or major capital projects, there will not be technological activities associated with these. Activities under the remaining business lines would benefit the transportation sector as a whole, and would be carried out in partnership with other departments, other governments, academia and industry. The department is also committed to programs on accessibility and protection of the environment as funds are made available, including from outside sources.