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FINDING SUSTAINABLE PATHWAYS

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Our process helps Canada achieve sustainable development solutions that integrate environmental and economic considerations to ensure the lasting prosperity and well-being of our nation.

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We rigorously research and conduct high quality analysis on issues of sustainable development. Our thinking is original and thought provoking.

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We convene opinion leaders and experts from across Canada around our table to share their knowledge and diverse perspectives. We stimulate debate and integrate polarities. We create a context for possibilities to emerge.

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Home / Corporate Reporting / DPR – 2006-2007 – Index / DPR – 2006-2007 – Section 1-5

DPR – 2006-2007 – Section 1-5

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1.5 Operating Environment and Context

The NRTEE’s success depends on its ability to influence federal policy on environment and economy issues. To accomplish this, the NRTEE must produce and promote relevant, neutral, credible advice in a timely manner. Its ability to do so is affected by a range of internal and external factors. Those relevant in 2006-2007 are discussed below. Internal operating factors Requests from the government to provide specific kinds of advice can create challenges in terms of the organization’s ability to plan from year to year. The timing of such references cannot be controlled and the agency is often expected to identify the necessary resources from within its own budget. In 2006, resources were set aside early in the year to address an anticipated request, but confirmation and details of the advice required did not arrive until November. The result was the eventual lapse of operating funds. (See Section 3, Table 1.) External factors In Canada, particularly for the issues typically examined by the NRTEE, policies are not developed in isolation-the government’s associations with the provinces, municipalities, and even other countries can affect them. This creates a complex decision-making environment that can potentially compromise the federal government’s ability to act on the NRTEE’s recommendations. The NRTEE also competes for attention within the array of priorities being addressed by key stakeholders. This is a significant and ongoing challenge that the NRTEE works to address through strategic communications efforts.