Advancing responsible stewardship of Canada's environment and natural resources
Developing evidence-based policy standards and strategic frameworks to balance economic vitality with ecological integrity across all provinces and territories.
National Strategy Pillars
Climate & Carbon
Leading policy research on carbon sequestration, emission standards, and climate resilience frameworks.
water_dropWater & Watersheds
Protecting freshwater ecosystems through integrated watershed management and pollution control standards.
forestForests & Land
Sustainable silviculture practices and terrestrial conservation strategies for Canada's vast boreal shield.
factoryEnergy & Natural Resources
Strategic guidelines for resource extraction, mineral security, and the renewable energy transition.
cruelty_freeWildlife & Biodiversity
Advocating for habitat corridors and species-at-risk recovery programs through cross-jurisdictional cooperation.
home_workSustainable Homes & Communities
Practical homeowner guidance for energy-efficient housing and sustainable infrastructure.
Featured Research Publications
How Canada Sets and Enforces Air Quality Standards
Canada manages outdoor air pollution through national standards that are not legally binding on their own, backed by provincial permits and a handful of federal regulations. Here is how the pieces fit together and where the gaps show.
How Canada Protects Its Oceans: The Rules Behind Marine Protected Areas
Canada has pledged to conserve 30 percent of its ocean by 2030, but the pledge rests on four different legal designations with four different rulebooks. Here is what each one actually prohibits, how a site gets designated, and where the gaps remain.
How Extended Producer Responsibility Reshapes Recycling in Canada
Canadian provinces are shifting the cost of household packaging recycling from municipalities to the companies that supply the packaging. Here is how extended producer responsibility works, how the provinces compare, and what it changes at the curb.
Policy Updates & Announcements
Canada’s Clean Fuel Regulations: How the Credit System Works
The Clean Fuel Regulations push suppliers to lower the carbon intensity of gasoline and diesel over time, using a credit market rather than a simple fuel tax. Here is how the system is built and what it means for drivers and producers.
Jul 23, 2026How Ellerslie Roofing Is Adapting Edmonton Roof Jobs to Alberta’s New Energy Code
Alberta's tightened energy code changed what a compliant roof looks like. We asked an Edmonton roofing contractor how that plays out on an actual job site.
Jul 19, 2026How Canada Regulates Methane From Oil and Gas
Methane leaks and venting from oil and gas sites are a major source of Canadian emissions. Here is how federal and provincial rules aim to cut them.
Jul 16, 2026The Impact Assessment Act After the Supreme Court Reference
In 2023 the Supreme Court of Canada found central parts of the federal Impact Assessment Act unconstitutional, and Parliament rewrote them in 2024. Here is what changed, what triggers a federal review now, and why the division of powers still shapes every major project decision.
Jul 16, 2026Our work across Canada
CERC operates as a bridge between national mandates and regional realities. Our researchers are stationed across the country to ensure that every policy reflects the unique environmental and resource context of each province and territory.
Meet our regional chairs