What is RSS?

RSS (Really Simple Syndication) is a useful tool for keeping up-to-date on your favourite Web sites.  Updates on the site are broadcast to subscribers through an RSS feed. Sign up for an RSS and a message will appear in your feed reader every time new information is added to the relevant section of Environment Canada's Science and Technology web site.  When an update is sent out, it includes a headline and a small amount of text, either a summary or a lead-in into larger text.

RSS readers quickly update you on the latest additions to you favourite or most checked web sites, saving you from constantly visiting a web site to check for updated content.

When you find a web site you would like to add to your aggregator, you can do so in one of two ways.  Most sites that offer an RSS feed have an RSS or XML button on their homepage that you can click on to instantly add that feed to your aggregator.  Depending on your aggregator, you may instead need to copy and paste the URL and the feed into the program.

Whichever option you chose, the feed will be available as soon as you’ve added it, and your next update could arrive at any given moment.  If you decide that you no longer want to receive updates, simply delete the feed or URL from your aggregator.

How do I use RSS?

The basic process is as follows:

  • Your web browser may already support RSS feeds. If so, simply click on the RSS link to subscribe to the feed.
  • Alternatively, you may download / subscribe to a freeRSS reader or purchase one of your choice instead.
  • Copy and paste the URL of the feed into the appropriate field of the RSS feed reader.

RSS Feed Readers / Aggregators

An RSS reader, also known as an aggregator, will download and display RSS feeds for you. There are numerous readers/aggregators available. Some are online services accessed via web browser, while others are desktop software installed on a personal computer. Reader capabilities are also integrated into many email programs and web browsers. Here are a few well-known reader options to get you started:

Desktop feed reader software

Online services

Referring links to web sites not under the control of the Government of Canada are provided solely for the convenience of users. The Government of Canada is not responsible for the accuracy, currency or the reliability of the content nor does it endorse the sites and their content. (see also Important Notices)