Canada’s Sustainable Development Goals
SDG | Description |
---|---|
SDG 1: No Poverty | – In 2018, the poverty rate in Canada was 9.5%, representing approximately 3.2 million Canadians living below the poverty line. |
– Canada has implemented various social assistance programs, including the Canada Child Benefit (CCB), to reduce child poverty and support low-income families. | |
SDG 2: Zero Hunger | – Approximately 4.5 million Canadians experience food insecurity, with Indigenous communities disproportionately affected. |
– Canada’s Food Policy aims to ensure access to safe, nutritious, and culturally diverse food for all Canadians while promoting sustainable food practices. | |
SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being | – Canada has a publicly funded healthcare system, providing universal access to essential medical services for all citizens and residents. |
– Mental health issues affect 1 in 5 Canadians, prompting investments in mental health services and awareness campaigns to reduce stigma. | |
SDG 4: Quality Education | – Canada consistently ranks among the top countries in education quality, with high literacy rates and a strong emphasis on inclusivity and diversity. |
– The government invests in early childhood education, Indigenous education initiatives, and post-secondary scholarships to enhance access to education. | |
SDG 5: Gender Equality | – The gender wage gap in Canada is approximately 12%, with Indigenous women and women of color facing greater disparities. |
– Canada has implemented policies such as pay equity legislation and gender mainstreaming initiatives to promote gender equality in the workplace. | |
SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation | – Despite abundant freshwater resources, many Indigenous communities in Canada face water advisories due to inadequate infrastructure and pollution. |
– The government is committed to addressing water quality issues and improving access to clean drinking water for Indigenous communities. | |
SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy | – Canada is a global leader in renewable energy production, with hydroelectricity, wind, and solar power contributing significantly to the energy mix. |
– The government has committed to phasing out coal-fired power plants by 2030 and investing in clean energy technologies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. | |
SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth | – Canada’s unemployment rate was 6.9% in 2020, with challenges in youth employment and underemployment in certain regions and sectors. |
– Efforts are made to promote job creation, skills training, and support for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to foster economic growth. | |
SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure | – Canada invests in research and development (R&D) and innovation to drive economic growth and competitiveness in sectors such as technology and green energy. |
– Infrastructure projects, including transportation and digital connectivity, are prioritized to enhance productivity and support sustainable development. |
Sustainable Development in Canada
Sustainable development is a central pillar of public policy in Canada, emphasizing the integration of economic growth, social equity, and environmental stewardship. It serves as the guiding principle for organizations, reflecting a commitment to creating a prosperous and resilient future for all Canadians.