The evolution of sustainable development strategies in Canada: an assessment of three federal natural resource management agencies.

摘要

The international call for sustainable development prompted the Canadian government to mandate the creation of sustainable development strategies by federal agencies. These strategies, now in their second generation, represent the expression of sustainable development from a policy perspective, and require careful consideration. A workable matrix, which combines key elements of sustainable development with fundamental management element guides, is used to assess the sustainability strategies of three federal government departments concerned with Canada's natural resources. Examination reveals considerable changes in sustainable development strategies regarding processes, mechanisms and structures. Attention is also drawn to governance structures, community involvement and diversity in decision-making. Although not a panacea, these second-generation strategies more fully reflect elements associated with sustainable development..