In adopting this approach, it will be Canada's intention to manage change within the overall context of sustainable development. Such an approach demonstrates an ability to take effective action on environmental issues while continuing economic development and, as such, can also serve as an important example to stimulate further international action. Canada views sustainability as an approach to development in which social, environmental and economic concerns are fully integrated into its practices and policies. Integrating economic and human development with the environment calls for a flexible, evolutionary, and practical response. All Canadians, in fact, need to make informed decisions that incorporate social, environmental and economic elements.
Sustainable development requires an inclusive, dynamic, and transparent climate change action plan.
Canada's National Action Program aims to broaden the public's understanding of this issue and seeks active participation in taking steps to meet the challenge. It also calls for an approach to the development of natural and energy resources that meets the needs of present generations without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. The present generation should seek to develop and utilize non-renewable resources more efficiently, while seeking to accelerate the development of lower emission alternative fuels. Understanding the economic implications of Canada's commitment to stabilize greenhouse gas emissions is a critical element of the National Action Program . A number of studies in Canada have helped to inform policy makers on the first two counts, while a full account of the social, economic or health consequences of not taking actions has yet to be comprehensively addressed.