Canada’s Bold Commitment to Biodiversity: A $11.7 Million Investment to Protect UNESCO Biosphere Regions

Canada is doubling down on its commitment to protect endangered species and fight climate change. In a historic move, the federal government is investing over $11.7 million to strengthen the UNESCO biosphere regions across the country, marking a significant step towards achieving Canada’s ambitious goal of conserving 30% of its lands and waters by 2030. The funds, announced by the Honourable Steven Guilbeault, Minister of Environment and Climate Change, are part of the country’s largest conservation campaign to date.

Investing in Nature’s Guardians

From 2023 to 2026, the Canadian Biosphere Regions Association and 19 UNESCO biosphere regions will benefit from this substantial funding. These regions are not just patches of protected land; they represent a delicate balance where human communities coexist harmoniously with nature. The funding will support a variety of conservation activities, including biodiversity research, habitat restoration, sustainable land management, and deeper engagement with local stakeholders.

Minister Guilbeault emphasized, “Biosphere regions are balancing environment conservation with economic development while considering local social and cultural needs. They are an excellent example of how communities can help tackle global issues like biodiversity loss and climate change.”

Quebec’s Biosphere Regions: A Focal Point

Quebec’s biosphere regions will receive a significant portion of the investment, with $2 million earmarked for Charlevoix, Lac Saint-Pierre, Manicouagan-Uapishka, and Mont Saint-Hilaire. This funding aims to enhance conservation activities through habitat restoration, stewardship, and strategic land acquisitions. Specifically, the Mont Saint-Hilaire Biosphere Region will receive over $650,000, allowing for the legal protection of an additional 90 hectares and the restoration of nine hectares over the next two years.

Éric Malka, Executive Director of Connexion Nature and the Mont Saint-Hilaire Biosphere Region remarked, “This funding is a catalyst for the conservation of natural habitats. It will allow us to accelerate the acquisition and protection of natural habitats, not only in Mont Saint-Hilaire but across all biosphere regions in Canada.”

Expanding Canada’s Conservation Legacy

Today’s funding builds on previous investments, including the $11.3 million allocated since 2021, which has already facilitated the protection of over 71,374 hectares. This area, equivalent to almost three times the size of the city of Laval, underscores the scale of Canada’s commitment to conservation. The investments are designed to help Canada meet its 2030 conservation targets while supporting local communities and ecosystems.

Sherry Romanado, Member of Parliament, highlighted the importance of this funding, stating, “Today’s commitment demonstrates our determination to protect and preserve our precious ecosystems. Together, we are making remarkable progress towards a sustainable future for our communities and for future generations.”

Building a Sustainable Future, One Biosphere at a Time

Canada’s biosphere regions serve as living laboratories where conservation, sustainable development, and community engagement intersect. The Canadian Biosphere Regions Association, along with the 19 designated regions, plays a crucial role in balancing human needs with ecological resilience. These efforts not only protect biodiversity but also contribute to sustainable livelihoods and broader global environmental goals.

Kate Potter, Executive Director of the Canadian Biosphere Regions Association, expressed gratitude for the funding, saying, “Biodiversity conservation is a core element of a biosphere region’s mission. These areas are dedicated to balancing the needs of human communities with the protection of natural ecosystems.”

The Road Ahead: Protecting Canada’s Natural Heritage

As Canada continues its journey toward meeting its 2030 conservation goals, the importance of initiatives like the UNESCO Biosphere Regions cannot be overstated. These regions exemplify what is possible when communities, governments, and organizations work together to protect and preserve our environment. With this funding, Canada is taking a bold step forward, ensuring that its natural heritage remains protected for future generations.

Yves-Gérard Méhou-Loko, Secretary General of the Canadian Commission for UNESCO, aptly noted, “The UNESCO-designated regions are real catalysts for implementing sustainable development goals and achieving the targets of the Kunming-Montréal Global Biodiversity Framework.”

A Collaborative Effort for Lasting Change

The $11.7 million investment is more than just a financial commitment; it is a pledge to safeguard Canada’s biodiversity and set a global example. With continued collaboration among municipalities, donors, volunteers, landowners, and stakeholders, the country is poised to protect even more natural habitats, ensuring that Canada’s rich ecological legacy endures.

Source: Environment and Climate Change Canada