Conservation in Canada: campfire stories

Nature is a fundamental part of our national identity and conserving it is more important than ever. We all depend on healthy ecosystems. From agriculture to water and air quality, to a livable climate and economic prosperity, we need nature and nature needs us.

Across the country, there are countless examples of people coming together for conservation in Canada. Whether it’s protecting more land and water, supporting species at risk, or just getting outside to appreciate the natural environment around us, these stories are worth sharing..

Getting to 25%

To reach our goal of conserving 25% of lands and inland waters by 2025, it will take a great, collaborative effort to establish new, or expand existing, protected and conserved areas. Read about our progress so far:

• Prince Edward Point National Wildlife Area: A bit bigger, and better than ever
• Supporting biodiversity in life—and death

Support for species at risk

Biodiversity loss is happening at an unprecedented rate with up to one million species currently at risk of extinction globally, and 640 species at risk in Canada. We are collaborating with provinces and territories, Indigenous peoples and other conservation partners to transform our approach for conserving species at risk. Read about work happening in communities across the country to support species at risk:

• What’s up Butternut? A new collaboration for trees in Ontario
• Building ‘Bed & Breakfasts’ for Monarch along rural roads (and other rights-of-way)
• The sweet spot: Science and conservation converging for Monarch

Indigenous leadership in conservation

First Nations, Inuit and Métis are key partners in conserving and protecting nature. They have been stewards and managers of the lands, waters and ice, and leaders in ecosystem conservation in Canada since time immemorial. Read some inspiring stories of Indigenous stewardship in action:

• Great Bear Rainforest: a blueprint for success
• Protecting the environment to secure a strong future
• Gerry’s Legacy: Giving high school students an appreciation for their heritage and the environment

Partnerships and collaborations

By working closely together with provinces and territories, Indigenous peoples, the private sector, non-governmental organizations and local governments, we are protecting more nature, helping combat climate change, and building stronger communities. Read about how working with others has resulted in positive outcomes for nature conservation:

• Municipalities in Ontario supporting national targets
• Other Effective area-based Conservation Measures: Harnessing a Pan-Canadian approach to biodiversity conservation
• Canada Border Services Agency helping to protect biodiversity along Canada’s border… and beyond!
• A bike ride for biodiversity

Exploring nature-based solutions

The climate and nature crises are inextricably linked. Forests, wetlands, grasslands, and agricultural land absorb and store large amounts of carbon (CO2), keep our air and water clean, and provide habitat for wildlife. Nature-based climate solutions also help preserve the adaptive potential of our earth; reducing risk from natural disasters, and enhancing the resilience of ecosystems and communities. Read more about nature-based solutions:

• Variety in wetlands: packing a punch for nature