Even though the majority of Canadian provinces have made progress to protect 30% of land and oceans by 2030, a report by the Society for Nature and Parks of Canada finds that current results are clearly insufficient to meet the goals. .
CPAWS Canada releases its second newsletter on protecting Canada’s lands and oceans on Wednesday.
According to them, this report confirms the urgency for governments to combine their efforts to halt and reverse the loss of biodiversity in Canada.
An emergency
“It is critical that all governments recognize the urgency of this crisis,” said Sandra Schwartz, National Executive Director of SNAP Canada.
Canada has shown leadership by committing to protect at least 30% of its land and oceans by 2030.
The reality, however, would be different. According to the organization, about a third of the country has worked to put in place the winning conditions to allow significant progress. Quebec is on the right side of the scale, as are Nova Scotia, the Yukon and British Columbia.
“Canadians expect more than a C average when it comes to conservation. It’s very disappointing. With the support for the protection of the territory, one would expect much more robust actions. In Ontario, absolutely nothing is happening,” says Alain Branchaud, biologist and general manager of the Quebec section of SNAP.
According to the spokesperson, the objective of 30% by 2030 is realistic and essential for the future of the country. Besides Ontario, Alberta and Saskatchewan are also at the back of the pack.
arrogance
“There are enough projects across Canada to succeed, but the political will is variable. Jurisdictions must raise their ambitions. For some governments, they do not even intend to do so. It’s a bit arrogant and it’s insulting,” adds Mr. Branchaud.
CPAWS Canada believes that a strong majority of Canadians would like to see more terrestrial and marine environments protected in Canada, in addition to improved funding.
The release of the report coincides with the meeting of federal, provincial and territorial ministers responsible for conservation, wildlife and biodiversity, which is being held in Ottawa on May 25-26.
Notable progress since 2021
- Federal [milieux terrestres] (2021 grade: A-)
- Quebec (2021 grade: A-)
- Nova Scotia (2021 grade: B)
- Yukon (2021 grade: B-)
- British Columbia (2021 grade: C)
Moderate progress since 2021
- Federal [milieux marins] (2021 grade: B+)
- Northwest Territories (2021 grade: B+)
- New Brunswick (2021 grade: B-)
- Manitoba (2021 grade: C-)
- Newfoundland and Labrador (2021 grade: E)
Marginal progress since 2021
- Saskatchewan (2021 grade: D)
- Alberta (2021 grade: E)
- Ontario (2021 grade: E)
CPAWS Canada has not rated Nunavut and Prince Edward Island.
Source: CPAWS Canada