1. Discussing Targets and Benchmarks
Fraser Basin Council
Sustainability Indicators Program
Discussing Targets and Benchmarks

2. Why Measure and Report on Sustainability?
To increase public awareness and understanding about sustainability
To identify critical issues and responses to improve progress
To inform and influence decisions and actions to advance sustainability

3. Using Benchmarks, Thresholds and Targets
Varying definitions of indicators, benchmarks, thresholds, and targets
Benchmarks, thresholds and targets may be used to:
Put indicator trends in context
Make trends more meaningful / understandable

4. Using Benchmarks, Thresholds and Targets
Examples of benchmarks, thresholds and targets
Scientific / technical basis (e.g., toxic levels for specific pollutants - known health risks if pm10 > 25 micrograms / cubic metre, mercury)
Policy basis (e.g., diversion of 50% of waste from landfills, 10% increase in affordable housing units)
Comparative basis (e.g., compare trends for different jurisdictions, or compare trends over time for a single jurisdictions - I.e., getting better or worse over time)
Qualitative / subjective / intuitive basis (e.g., based on the interpretation of the project proponent and/or advisors (usually visual icons used such as happy faces, traffic lights, other gauges, up & down arrows)
Combinations of above

5. Using Benchmarks, Thresholds and Targets
Absolute sustainability versus relative sustainability
Do we know what level is sustainable?
Is there consensus or are there diverging perspectives?
Reference points and baseline information
Do policy targets exist?
Are they relevant to the audience?
Are data available for comparisons over time or geography?
Are common targets appropriate for different regions?
Are comparisons relevant and appropriate?
One common solution - Interim targets that move towards sustainability