Environment and Climate Change Canada invests in local understanding of biodiversity and Indigenous conservation efforts
Just northwest of Vancouver lies an ocean oasis: the Átl’ka7tsem / Howe Sound Biosphere Region. Stewarded for generations by the Squamish Nation and home to spectacular and globally unique glass sponge reefs, this region is a cultural and ecological treasure in the marine backyard of IMPAC5.
On September 1, Environment and Climate Change Canada announced a huge investment in protection of the marine ecosystem in the Átl’ḵa7tsem / Howe Sound Biosphere Region.
The Honourable Steven Guilbeault, Minister of Environment and Climate Change, announced an investment of more than $926,000 over four years to increase biodiversity conservation efforts in the Átl’ḵa7tsem / Howe Sound Biosphere Region.
The funding, from Canada’s Enhanced Nature Legacy program, will support management and biodiversity conservation activities in the biosphere region, which is abundant with nature and wildlife, including rare and fragile glass sponge reefs. The biosphere region is also home to the rich culture of the Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish Nation) and other Coastal First Nations.
In collaboration with conservation partners, including local First Nations groups, the Howe Sound Biosphere Region Initiative Society will use the funding to help increase local understanding of biodiversity, of other effective conservation measures (OECMs), and of Indigenous Protected and Conserved Areas (IPCAs).
Biosphere reserves like the Átl’ḵa7tsem / Howe Sound Biosphere Region are internationally recognized by the UNESCO Man and the Biosphere Programme. They bring people together with nature in a sustainable and environmentally friendly way, and they support the conservation of biodiversity and encourage people to learn about and take stewardship actions for sustainable development.
If you’re coming to IMPAC5, you can visit the Átl’ḵa7tsem / Howe Sound Biosphere Region!
IMPAC5 is organizing several field trips for Congress attendees, including a boat tour of the Átl’ḵa7tsem / Howe Sound Biosphere Region. More information about this opportunity to discover the region’s natural beauty, conservation initiatives and rich culture can be found on the IMPAC5 website.
To learn more about conservation initiatives for the Átl’ḵa7tsem Howe Sound Biosphere Region, visit the Howe Sound Biosphere Region Initiative Society website.
