Much of Canada's majestic landscape is defined by its millions of lakes, glaciers and mighty rivers. Fresh water is essential to life, it shapes Canada's communities, environment, economy and well-being, making water security a national priority.
On World Water Day, the Honourable Julie Dabrusin, Minister of Environment, Climate Change and Nature, and Minister responsible for the Canada Water Agency, announced the launch of efforts to develop the country's first National Water Security Strategy. The Canada Water Agency will lead this work, seeking to collaborate with Provincial, Territorial and Municipal Governments, Indigenous Peoples and partners across the country.
The development of a National Water Security Strategy is an opportunity to discuss how we can address freshwater-related threats and opportunities in a way that protects freshwater ecosystems and secures water for communities and the economy, now and for future generations. As fresh water becomes an increasingly vital and strategic resource across North America and around the world, this work is more important than ever.
A national approach to water security will require broad participation from partners involved in freshwater management and stewardship across the country. To understand diverse needs, knowledge systems and priorities related to water security, the Canada Water Agency will engage provinces and territories; First Nations, Inuit, and Métis partners; stakeholders across sectors; and the public to ensure the Strategy reflects the values and lived experiences of people from coast to coast to coast. Engagement timelines will be announced in the coming months.
Quotes
"World Water Day reminds us of the vital role fresh water plays in our daily lives and that healthy freshwater ecosystems are foundations of our communities, nature, and the economy. To help ensure a water-secure future for all, we are advancing work on a National Water Security Strategy one that reflects Indigenous Knowledge Systems and stewardship of water, and the value that all Canadians place on our iconic lakes, wetlands, and rivers. From the Wolastoq/Saint John and St. Lawrence rivers in the east to the Fraser and Mackenzie rivers in the west and north, these waters flow through our landscape and shape our way of life. I look forward to engaging with provinces and territories, Indigenous Peoples, stakeholders, and the public to explore what water security means to them."
- The Honourable Julie Dabrusin, Minister of the Environment, Climate Change and Nature and Minister responsible for the Canada Water Agency
"Canada's stunning landscape is largely defined by its water. Protecting our waters is a shared responsibility, and developing a National Water Security Strategy is an opportunity to work together to better understand water-related risks, priorities, and opportunities across the country. By engaging provinces and territories, Indigenous partners, stakeholders, and the public, we can strengthen collaboration and improve how we manage and protect our freshwater systems. This work will help lay the foundation for a more water secure future that supports healthy ecosystems and resilient communities for generations to come."
- Wade Grant, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Environment, Climate Change and Nature
Quick facts
-
The Canada Water Agency is the federal focal point for fresh water. Its mandate is to improve freshwater management in Canada by providing leadership, effective collaboration federally, and improved coordination, collaboration and partnership with provinces, territories and Indigenous peoples.
-
Canada faces a range of water-related challenges such as droughts, floods, pollution, wildfires, aging critical water infrastructure, stresses on groundwater, permafrost degradation, and algal blooms, to name a few. Engagement on a National Water Security Strategy will focus on listening: identifying water security priorities, understanding risks and opportunities, and exploring pathways for shared action.
-
This announcement builds on the Government of Canada's $650 million commitment over 10 years in the Freshwater Action Plan to manage, restore, and protect fresh water.
Associated links
For more information
The latest news «Environment»
