CALGARY, AB, Dec. 15, 2025 – Today, Julie Dabrusin, Canada’s Minister of the Environment, celebrates 30 years of the Environmental Damages Fund. The government is investing over $10.6 million in 23 new projects to help ecosystems and communities across Canada.
Since its start in 1995, the Environmental Damages Fund has taken fines from environmental violations and used them to support projects that heal our planet. With over $255 million funneled into more than 600 community projects, this initiative has become essential in preserving biodiversity and encouraging sustainable practices.
The latest funding will support 23 community-led projects focused on improving wildlife habitats, restoring the environment, and enhancing ecological research. These projects are expected to:
- Engage over 6,500 participants and more than 130 community partners.
- Monitor 116,000 hectares of wildlife habitat—almost double the size of Toronto.
- Improve 120 hectares of habitat, equating to about 218 football fields.
- Divert 7,600 kilograms of harmful waste from the environment.
The fund is crucial in turning environmental harm into recovery. This approach helps communities directly impacted by environmental violations to benefit through restoration efforts.
Julie Dabrusin stated, “The Environmental Damages Fund shows that when nature is harmed, there’s always a way to heal. It’s inspiring to see communities transforming accountability into positive action for future generations.”
Dr. Ed McCauley, President of the University of Calgary, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the need for research to understand and protect local ecosystems. He said, “Our work showcases how communities rely on healthy environments, and our research will yield critical insights for preserving our watersheds.”
A glance at the numbers reveals the importance of these projects. A 2022 survey indicated that 73% of Canadians believe environmental policy should focus more on ecological restoration. This strong public sentiment reflects a growing desire for action to tackle climate change and sustain biodiversity.
In summary, the Environmental Damages Fund is a significant step in environmental restoration. It exemplifies how society can turn environmental setbacks into opportunities for healing our planet. For more about Canada’s environmental initiatives, visit Environment and Climate Change Canada.
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Government of Canada, Environmental Damages Fund, environmental violations, environment, environmental harm, projects, Julie Dabrusin, environmental stewardship
