We created the Cabinet Committee on the Environment to review the environmental implications of all government initiatives. I think what made us successful was the fact that it was a sustained approach. We did something new every year.

In this quote, Brian Mulroney, the former Prime Minister of Canada, discusses the establishment of the Cabinet Committee on the Environment and its role in evaluating the environmental implications of government policies and initiatives. He highlights the success of this committee by emphasizing its sustained approach to environmental policy. Mulroney notes that by taking consistent, proactive actions and introducing something new every year, they were able to effectively address environmental issues within the framework of government decision-making.

Mulroney’s statement underscores the importance of continuity and long-term planning when it comes to environmental protection. Rather than treating environmental concerns as one-off issues, the Cabinet Committee ensured that each new government initiative was assessed for its potential impact on the environment. This approach reflects the idea that environmental issues are not just short-term challenges but require ongoing attention and adaptation to ensure sustainable progress.

The origin of the quote lies in Mulroney’s commitment to environmental stewardship during his time in office. Under his leadership, Canada took significant steps toward environmental conservation and sustainability, including the signing of the Canada-US Air Quality Agreement and the Green Plan, which aimed at reducing environmental pollution. The establishment of the Cabinet Committee on the Environment was part of a broader effort to make environmental considerations a priority in government policies.

Ultimately, Mulroney’s quote highlights the idea that sustained action is key to achieving meaningful environmental outcomes. By ensuring that environmental concerns were continuously addressed and incorporated into government initiatives, his administration laid the foundation for a more integrated approach to environmental policy in Canada. This perspective is crucial for building long-term solutions to complex environmental challenges.