2005 Provincial Sustainability Report for Manitoba

MINISTER'S MESSAGE

Fellow Manitoban:

On behalf of the Manitoba government, I am very pleased to introduce this comprehensive and informative document, the

2005 Provincial Sustainability Report for Manitoba.

The purpose of this new and innovative report is to provide Manitobans with useful information on important sustainability issues and trends. This report was developed by compiling data on key indicators that have been tracked over time to measure our progress towards sustainability. This approach improves on the Manitoba government's state of the environment reporting during the 1990s. Rather than presenting information based solely on current environmental conditions, we are reporting on the interrelationships between environmental conditions and social and economic factors.

It is difficult to measure progress towards sustainability using only one or two indicators, or to determine complex trends over a short time period.  Since this is the first report of its kind for Manitoba, the indicators used in future reports will likely evolve over time. We are committed to improving the coordination of information both within government, and with Manitobans and stakeholders, to use the most effective and appropriate indicators.

By reading and using this document, readers can become better informed and make wise decisions that contribute to a more sustainable future for all of us.

I welcome your comments on this report and on our efforts to date.  Your input will help improve our process for future reports.  Thank you for participating and for doing your part in making Manitoba more sustainable.

Sincerely,
Stan Struthers Minister of Conservation