The Atlantic Ocean is one of the most productive marine environments in the world. It is home to an abundance of marine life and supports coastal livelihoods through industries like fishing, aquaculture and tourism. The Atlantic Ocean is treasured for its biodiversity and for the key role it plays in helping mitigate the impacts of climate change. It is important that, together with likeminded countries, we continue to take concrete, coordinated and measurable actions for an Atlantic Ocean that is healthy and sustainable now and for future generations.
Oceans are vital to the livelihoods of communities across Canada. We’ve made tremendous strides in protecting our oceans by working in collaboration with Indigenous partners, provinces, territories, industry and other marine stakeholders. Since 2015, Canada has increased protection of its marine and coastal areas from less than one percent to over 14 percent.
Cod is culturally, economically, and historically important for coastal communities throughout Eastern Canada, including in the Northern Gulf of St. Lawrence. Quebeckers, and Newfoundlanders and Labradorians have been fishing Northern Gulf cod for centuries, and the Government of Canada is committed to ensuring this important tradition can be passed on to future generations
In Canada, the health of our oceans is directly linked to the health of our people. This also rings true beyond Canadian borders and around the globe. People are dependent on the ocean, and the health of the ocean is dependent on us. Preserving the richness and diversity of the global marine environment and protecting this vital resource has never been more important than it is today.
Canada’s East Coast inshore fisheries are the backbone of coastal communities, driving rural, local, regional and national economies. Fisheries and Oceans Canada is committed to supporting these harvesters who work hard to provide prosperity for their communities.
Cod is culturally and economically important to the people in Newfoundland and Labrador. Fisheries and Oceans Canada understands the heavy responsibility of fishery decisions, and the very real impact they have on the livelihoods of Canadians. When making decisions we consider the best available scientific advice, stakeholder input as well as economic impact.
Wild Pacific salmon are of great importance to communities in British Columbia, both culturally and economically. However, wild Pacific salmon are facing historic threats and experiencing significant population declines. It is a Government of Canada priority to protect and restore our oceans and coasts. Part of that work includes a mandate commitment to transition from open-net pen salmon aquaculture in British Columbia’s coastal waters in a manner that protects wild salmon, the environment, and the economy.
Atlantic herring is a vital species in Atlantic Canada. As one of the largest commercial fisheries in Atlantic Canada, the Southwest Nova Scotia / Bay of Fundy herring stock directly or indirectly employs more than 1,000 people in rural Nova Scotia and New Brunswick, and contributes over $140 million to the local economy.
The Government of Canada understands the need for safe and accessible harbours for hunters, harvesters, commercial fishers, and others in the Arctic. The federal government is committed to working with communities in Nunavut to deliver infrastructure that improves lives and helps to build stronger communities.
