A commitment to safety and sustainability As a result of deregulation, commercialization and privatization, the role of the federal government of Canada is now focused on policies that contribute to a healthy, competitive business environment and a safe and sustainable transportation system. Sustainable development means meeting the needs of the present without compromising the needs of future generations. In Canada, sustainable development is a government-wide commitment, and climate change is one of the current priorities. In 1997, Canada and several other countries met in Kyoto, Japan, to review progress on the Rio Convention on Climate Change and to negotiate stronger greenhouse gas emission reduction targets for the year 2000 and beyond. The federal government is considering options for more sustainable transportation and working with industry to develop improved vehicle technologies and alternative transportation fuels.
Public safety is another of the federal government's priorities.
In fact, when it comes to transportation, safety is of the utmost importance in government priorities, and the commitment shows. Canada's transportation system is one of the safest in the world, and we put our expertise to work by taking an active role in international efforts to harmonize safety standards.