Canada’s management system considers both science and Aboriginal traditional knowledge
June 10, 2015 – Ottawa, Ontario – Environment Canada
On June 11-12, the Honourable Leona Aglukkaq, Minister of the Environment, Minister of the Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency and Minister for the Arctic Council, along with Canadian Inuit representatives will meet with their United States counterparts and major non-governmental organizations in Shepherdstown, West Virginia.
Minister Aglukkaq will discuss the essential role that the polar bear hunt plays in preserving the traditional way of life in Aboriginal communities across Canada’s North. These discussions will increase understanding of Canada’s robust management system that brings together both Aboriginal traditional knowledge and science to support decision-making for the management and conservation of polar bears.
Canada and the United States believe that convening stakeholders to discuss polar bear conservation will help foster a better understanding of the stringent environmental practices in place to manage the species while promoting constructive engagement among stakeholders.
"As an Inuk who was raised in the Canadian Arctic, I am proud that Canada’s world class polar bear management system takes into consideration both science and Aboriginal traditional knowledge. Aboriginal people have a unique understanding of the environment, having lived off the land for thousands of years, so ensuring our voice is heard only improves our management of the species. I am thankful to our American hosts and hope this week’s meetings will advance international awareness of the importance of traditional knowledge and Canada’s commitment to the protection of the polar bear."
– The Honourable Leona Aglukkaq, Minister of the Environment, Minister of the Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency and Minister for the Arctic Council
Ted Laking
Director of Communications
Office of the Minister of the Environment
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