Ottawa 2020

Environmental Strategy

3.5 Setting Targets and Monitoring our Progress

Targets can be defined as numeric or descriptive result that a group wishes to reach within a specific timeframe. These desired results or targets should be both measurable and realistic. In order to track progress, baseline information must be available to act as the starting point from which progress towards the target can be compared. Targets are only as useful as the quality of baseline data and the consistency, quality, and reliability of data collection.

Some interim targets have already been set through other growth management plans, supporting plans and programs. For example, Policy 1 b) section 2.4.5 of the Official Plan directs that targets for forest cover and greenspace throughout the City be established through the Greenspace Master Plan, and also sets an overall forest cover target for the City at 30%, pending the outcome of the Greenspace Master Plan.

Most of the targets associated with the Environmental Strategy will need to be established, as will some of the associated baseline data. Baseline data will be collected and targets will be set for areas such as greenhouse gas emission, resource use and green purchasing within the next two years, as identified in the Corporate Environmental Action Plan.

The City has committed to monitoring the progress of both the corporation and the community in meeting our environmental goals. As part of the Ottawa 20/20 process, an Annual Report Card will be prepared that tracks progress towards our Corporate goals as set through the five Growth Management Strategies. In addition, a set of Quality of Life indicators is currently being developed to further track our progress and assist in comparing our community to the progress of others. Decision-making and monitoring systems that consider and provide information in a way that balances social, financial and environmental considerations - this includes systems that strive to adequately "value" environmental aspects - will need to be developed.

Complementary to the above reporting initiatives, the City will review the Environmental Strategy every five years to monitor progress towards established targets, priorities, and the overall effectiveness of the process. This, along with the Annual Report Card, will ensure that the profile of the Environmental Strategy remains prominent in the eyes of Council, staff, and the community. The review will provide the opportunity to:

  • continue to review Best Practices and incorporate them into our short and long-term planning;
  • refine targets and priorities;
  • integrate new targets into the Strategy as they are developed through completion of the supporting plans and other programs;
  • ensure that targets that have been developed continue to be realistic; and
  • respond to the changing needs and priorities of a growing community.

Next: 4.0 Making it Happen