Report Reveals Key Challenges in Ottawa’s Climate Adaptation and Ocean Protection Strategies

Environment Commissioner Jerry DeMarco recently shared troubling findings about Canada’s environmental strategies. His audits reveal problems like inconsistent planning, lack of data, and insufficient action. The reports focus on the government’s efforts in climate adaptation, species protection, and sustainable ocean resource use. A separate report questions why Canada hasn’t met its sustainable development goals in over 30 years.

DeMarco pointed out that the gaps in how Ottawa addresses these challenges are hindering progress. He emphasized the need for reliable data to make informed decisions, especially as Prime Minister Mark Carney pushes for new infrastructure projects aimed at enhancing Canada’s energy sector. Without stronger federal actions on environmental issues, these projects might lead to unintended negative consequences.

The commissioner’s role, which started in 1995, has seen successive audits calling for better policies regarding the country’s natural resources. For instance, almost two decades passed before the federal government made strides towards a national climate-adaptation strategy, which was finally established in 2023. This is a stark contrast to Germany, which has updated its adaptation strategy four times in the same span.

While DeMarco sees the new strategy as a starting point, he believes it falls short in prioritizing climate risks and must be revised regularly. Notably, some health-related climate risks, like the spread of Lyme disease, were overlooked.

Blair Feltmate from the University of Waterloo’s Intact Centre on Climate Adaptation disagreed partially, arguing that the strategy adequately addressed major risks, such as flooding, wildfires, and extreme heat. He suggested creating a chief resiliency officer to guide the adaptation efforts and prepare for the financial burdens of extreme weather.

In assessing wildlife protection, the commissioner noted that only about one-third of 47 monitored species had their critical habitats identified. This lack of information could lead to the loss of vital natural spaces before they are protected.

Karen Hodges, a conservation biology professor, echoed this concern. She emphasized the need to change the conversation around species protection, urging a balance between economic growth and environmental sustainability. DeMarco also stressed the importance of planning for marine environments. He warned that without proper knowledge, making decisions about wind farms or shipping routes could be risky.

He highlighted that Canada has lagged in environmental protections but insists that it’s not too late to catch up. DeMarco urges the government to accelerate efforts to fill knowledge gaps and boost informed decision-making as new projects emerge.

For more insights on sustainable development and environmental policies in Canada, check out this report from the Government of Canada.

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