To the editor:
With a federal election on the horizon, it is imperative that all political parties commit to protecting and restoring nature.
Canada has already committed to protecting 30% of land, water and oceans by 2030, which is known as the 30 x 30 target. Yet, significant cuts to Parks Canada’s budget would undermine progress towards this commitment.
As reported by Canada’s National Observer, budget documents show Parks Canada is bracing for $450 million in cuts and lapsed funding over the next two years. This would be a significant rollback of nature investment in Canada.
Nature is a foundation of the Canadian identity and 84% of Canadians believe the federal government must do more for nature.
Economic and global uncertainty cannot be used as a justification for clawing back ambition to face the interrelated crises of climate change and biodiversity loss. Investing in the protection and restoration of nature is essential for Canada’s long-term prosperity and resilience.
The next federal government must adequately fund nature protection and restoration to achieve its 30 x 30 target.
John Hassell, Ontario Nature
Editor's note: Ontario Nature protects wild species and wild spaces through conservation, education, and public engagement. It connects thousands of individuals and communities with nature through 150 conservation groups and 30,000 members and supporters across the province.
