Canada is taking bold action to protect the natural environment that shapes our identity, supports our economy, and sustains our communities. That is why I am proud to support A Force of Nature: Canada’s Strategy to Protect Nature, a landmark $3.8-billion plan announced by Prime Minister Mark Carney this week. As we work to build a stronger, more independent, and more sustainable Canada, this strategy places nature protection at the heart of our national priorities.
We have all witnessed the effects of climate change and pollution that are accelerating habitat loss and threatening the species that make Canada wilderness unique. In response, our new strategy delivers decisive action to protect and restore land, water, and wildlife. It advances our international commitment to protect 30% of Canada’s terrestrial and marine areas by 2030.
This plan will have a monumental impact and includes funding up to 14 new marine protected areas, at least 10 new national parks, 15 national urban parks, and up to 10 new national marine conservation areas. These efforts will safeguard over 1.6 million km² of land and up to 700,000 km² of oceans in the coming years.
A new Expert Taskforce on Natural Capital Accounting and Nature Financing will help mobilize private investment to support long-term conservation. Our government will catalyze sustained private-sector involvement by embracing innovative financing models that direct capital toward protecting nature. It will also recommend new policies, incentives, and financial tools to encourage businesses and investors to participate meaningfully in conservation efforts, ensuring sustainable funding that helps reverse the decline of Canada’s ecosystems.
Canada is the world’s second-largest country, with the world’s longest coastline and one of the world’s largest marine territories. Protecting our natural heritage is a task our government will deliver with the focus, ambition, and strategy it deserves. We will protect nature for future generations and build a healthier, more sustainable Canada for all.