Patricia Lattanzio

Introducing the Federal Nature Accountability Bill

June 14, 2024

In a move to protect Canada's natural heritage, the Honourable Minister of the Environment and Climate Change Steven Guilbeault has introduced the historic Federal Nature Accountability Bill. This new legislation underscores our government’s commitment to preserving our diverse ecosystems, which are integral to our nation's identity, economy, and health.

Canada's natural beauty, from the oceans and Rocky Mountains to the Great Lakes, is a source of immense pride. However, scientific evidence shows that nature requires more protection and care, as the decline in biodiversity and ecosystems poses significant threats. The new bill aims to ensure that Canada remains accountable in its efforts to preserve our natural heritage.

Alongside this bill, the government has unveiled Canada’s 2030 Nature Strategy, a plan to stop and reverse biodiversity loss by 2030. Developed with provinces, territories, Indigenous representatives, and other stakeholders, this strategy builds on Canada’s ambitious conservation agenda. Our government is dedicated to stopping and reversing nature loss and emphasizing collaborative efforts across various sectors.

Since 2015, significant strides have been made in conservation, including conserving 300,000 km² of land, expanding 44 National Wildlife areas, and establishing 11 agreements for priority species at risk. Additionally, 23 multi-species action plans have been implemented, three new national parks have been added, over 600 new protected areas have been designated and 139 Indigenous partnerships have been formed to protect species at risk.

The introduction of the Federal Nature Accountability Bill and the 2030 Nature Strategy marks a significant step forward in our government’s conservation efforts.