In a significant step toward environmental preservation, the Government of Canada and the Government of Quebec have announced a new partnership to enhance nature conservation efforts across Quebec.
Steven Guilbeault, Canada’s Minister of Environment and Climate Change, has unveiled the Canada-Quebec agreement, which will provide up to $100m in federal funding by 2027 to support Quebec’s 2030 Nature Plan and Canada’s 2030 Nature Strategy.
This investment reinforces the commitment of both governments to safeguarding biodiversity while ensuring economic sustainability. The nature agreement sets clear objectives for expanding protected areas, restoring critical habitats, and supporting Indigenous-led nature conservation initiatives.
It also aligns with global biodiversity goals established in the Kunming-Montréal Global Biodiversity Framework.
Guilbeault explained: “Quebec is home to majestic landscapes and a unique variety of species and habitats. Our government is committed to protecting biodiversity across Canada and halting the deterioration of our nature legacy.
“With investments of more than $12bn since 2015, our government has led the largest campaign in Canadian history for nature conservation and climate solutions. The provinces play a key role in achieving our nature conservation goals, and this historic agreement will bolster Quebec’s conservation efforts.
“We are also committed to working with Indigenous communities to implement this agreement. By protecting nature today, we can pass on a more sustainable, resilient world to future generations.”
The importance of nature conservation
Nature conservation is more than just an environmental responsibility – it is a necessity for the survival of our planet and future generations.
As climate change accelerates and biodiversity declines at an alarming rate, protecting natural ecosystems has become one of the most effective strategies for mitigating environmental damage.
By preserving forests, wetlands, and other critical habitats, we can absorb carbon emissions, combat extreme weather events, and ensure that vital ecosystems support biodiversity and human well-being.
In Canada, nature conservation is a collective effort that requires collaboration among governments, Indigenous communities, industries, and local municipalities.
A well-coordinated approach ensures that conservation initiatives not only protect endangered species and restore ecosystems but also promote sustainable economic development.
Key objectives of the Canada-Quebec nature agreement
The newly established nature agreement outlines several key objectives to safeguard Quebec’s natural heritage:
- Expanding protected areas: Increasing the number of protected and conserved areas across Quebec, with a focus on safeguarding private lands in southern Quebec. This includes the development of urban parks to promote green spaces within cities.
- Protecting at-risk species: Implementing strategic measures to mitigate threats to biodiversity, enhance the protection of threatened and vulnerable species, and foster the recovery of species at risk.
- Controlling invasive species: Taking proactive steps to manage and control invasive alien species that threaten native ecosystems and disrupt biodiversity.
- Empowering Indigenous leadership: Supporting Indigenous-led conservation initiatives and integrating Indigenous knowledge into biodiversity protection efforts. Indigenous communities play a crucial role in conservation, particularly in protecting culturally significant species such as the boreal caribou.
Additional conservation investments in Quebec
The $100m investment builds upon previous nature conservation funding commitments. Since 2018, the Government of Canada has allocated $125m towards conservation projects in Quebec, including $42m dedicated to the 2024–2025 fiscal year.
These funds support habitat restoration, species recovery programmes, and initiatives that enhance the resilience of natural environments.
As part of the nationwide 2 Billion Trees Commitment, the federal government is also investing $220m to reforest nearly 50,000 hectares of land in Quebec.
This reforestation effort will help absorb carbon dioxide, improve air quality, and create a greener landscape for communities across the province.
Protecting the boreal caribou
One of the most significant conservation challenges in Quebec is the protection of the boreal caribou.
This iconic species is facing habitat loss due to industrial activities and climate change. The federal and provincial governments are working together to implement conservation plans to support caribou population recovery.
Indigenous communities have been instrumental in caribou conservation efforts, as the species holds deep cultural and historical significance.
The Government of Canada remains committed to including Indigenous leaders in conservation discussions and providing additional targeted funding to restore boreal caribou habitats.
A sustainable future through conservation
Nature conservation is not just about protecting wildlife; it is about ensuring the health and stability of our ecosystems for future generations.
As climate change intensifies and biodiversity declines, investing in conservation initiatives becomes more critical than ever.
By protecting forests, wetlands, and other vital ecosystems, we can build a more resilient environment, support economic sustainability, and enhance the well-being of communities across Canada.
The Canada-Quebec nature agreement marks a significant step forward in conservation efforts, demonstrating a shared commitment to preserving the country’s natural heritage.
Through continued collaboration and investment, Canada can lead the way in global biodiversity protection and environmental stewardship.
