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For Immediate Release
November 28, 2024 – Ontario Nature is collaborating with the forestry industry, Indigenous communities, local communities and environmental organizations to permanently protect at least one million hectares of important lands in Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certified forests. To get certified by FSC, forestry companies must set aside at least 10 percent of the lands that they manage for industrial logging to conserve ecosystems and biodiversity. These lands present a significant opportunity for Ontario to contribute to the Government of Canada’s commitment to protect of at least 30 percent of lands and inland waters by 2030, made under the United Nations Convention on Biological Diversity.
These protected areas in waiting have already been selected as prime candidates for protection from forestry activity, but they’re stuck in limbo. The lands were often selected through collaboration between forestry companies, Indigenous communities, non-Indigenous land users and non-governmental organizations (NGOs). The lands set aside sustain rich biodiversity or vulnerable species and habitats, as well as areas of cultural and recreational importance. Yet, the Government of Ontario has not formally recognized the areas identified, leaving these biodiversity havens open to mining, hydro development and potential changes in forest management.
These areas set aside in FSC certified forests are vital carbon sinks, habitat for species at risk, hold cultural significance and provide recreational opportunities. Ontarians overwhelmingly support establishing more protected areas and increasing the total area protected in Ontario. People want a sustainable approach to economic development that safeguards biodiversity and increases climate resilience.
Permanently protecting these areas would be a win for sustainable forestry, a win for conservation, a win for the people of Ontario and a win for governments in achieving biodiversity and climate targets. Conservation is collaborative, and it is time for the Government of Ontario to work with Indigenous communities, industry, local stakeholders and NGOs to protect these areas in a way that is consistent with Indigenous rights and priorities.
For more information, visit: ontarionature.org/designated-conservation-lands.
Chiniguchi Waterway Nipissing. Credit: Jason Fowler
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Media inquiries contact:
John Hassell, Ontario Nature
Director of Communications and Engagement, Editor
johnh@ontarionature.org, 416-786-2171
Ontario Nature protects wild species and wild spaces through conservation, education and public engagement. A charitable organization, Ontario Nature represents more than 30,000 members and supporters, and 150 member groups across Ontario. Ontario Nature collaborates with the forestry industry, Indigenous communities, local communities and environmental organizations to advance sustainable forestry practices.
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