Ratify High Seas Treaty

Canada stands at a pivotal moment for global biodiversity and climate action.

Bold conservation measures are essential for the wellbeing of both people and the planet. Protecting nature strengthens our communities, supports our economy, and safeguards the ecological systems we all rely on.

Canada has committed to protecting 30% of its land and water by 2030 under the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework. Achieving that goal requires meaningful investment in Indigenous-led conservation and strong collaboration across all levels of government to expand protected and conserved areas nationwide.

A core priority must be safeguarding old-growth and primary forests. These irreplaceable ecosystems store immense amounts of carbon, shelter endangered species, and support cultural and community wellbeing. They are vital to a credible national conservation strategy.

Equally urgent is Canada’s ratification of the High Seas Treaty—a historic agreement to protect biodiversity in the two-thirds of the global oceans that lie beyond national jurisdiction. Although Canada helped champion this treaty, our failure to ratify it prevents us from fully participating in decisions that shape the future of marine ecosystems.

Ratifying the treaty would enhance protections for migratory species, strengthen global cooperation, and help address the escalating threats posed by climate change and industrial activity in international waters.

Meaningful conservation—on land, in inland waters, along our coasts, and across the high seas—is an investment in public health, economic stability, intergenerational wellbeing, and the healthy future of our children, grandchildren and planet.

I urge Canadians to call on their elected representatives to accelerate progress toward protecting 30% of lands and water by 2030, prioritize old-growth and primary forest protection and press the federal government to ratify the High Seas Treaty without delay.

The choices we make now will determine the future we leave behind.

Allan Street, Kelowna