Speech From Throne 

January 30, 2001

We will implement the smog emissions reduction agreement signed with the United States, leading to a 90 per cent reduction in smog-causing vehicle emissions.

We will:

• Fulfil our direct responsibilities for water, including the safety of water supplies on reserves and federal lands;
• Lead in developing stronger national guidelines for water quality through enhanced scientific research, and continuing our collaboration with partners;
• Drawing on expertise within the Government, significantly strengthen the role of the National Water Research Institute;
• Fund improvements to municipal water and waste water systems through the federal - provincial-municipal Infrastructure Canada program;
• Invest in research and development and advanced information systems, enabling better land use and the protection of both surface water and groundwater supplies from the impact of industrial and agricultural operations.

We will:

• Invest in the creation of new national parks and implement a plan to restore existing parks to ecological health;
• Work with partners toward more integrated, sustainable management of Canada’s oceans;
• Reintroduce legislation for marine conservation areas and to protect species at risk.

We will:

• As part of our efforts to promote global sustainable development; ensure that Canada does its part to reduce global greenhouse gas emissions;
• Work with provincial and territorial partners to implement the first national business plan for climate change.

We will:

• Strengthen laws, research and other measures for health protection, to safeguard Canadians from toxic substances and other harmful environmental contaminants including the development of appropriate standards that reflect the special vulnerabilities of children.