Ann Dale’s ENGO launches new campaign for action on biodiversity loss
Artwork by Jason Adair and Chantelle Mussell
Back in February, Professor Ann Dale released a Biodiversity Action Agenda co-authored by Women for Nature. Building on the success of this publication and drawing on its 24 policy recommendations, her environmental non-governmental organization, The National Environmental Treasure (NET), launched a nation-wide campaign urging immediate action on biodiversity loss in Canada. With the doom and gloom often associated with biodiversity loss and climate pollution, NET’s goal is to communicate tangible solutions, engage Canadians with the science while blending the arts.
Biodiversity is essential for human survival and our vitality. It provides us with the basic necessities of life like food, water, energy and building materials. It also contributes to our quality of life and wellbeing.
Sadly, 1 million species already face extinction and many are disappearing 1,000 to 10,000 times their natural extinction rate. Since 1970, 60% of all mammals, birds, fish and reptiles, and two-thirds of all invertebrates like bugs and bees, have been lost. When compared to the human population, that’s the equivalent of emptying North America, South America, Africa, Europe, China and Oceania. Imagine a Canada without the polar bear or the call of the loon in the spring.
With an agreement laid out in 2011, over 100 countries committed to protecting at least 17% of land and inland water as well as 10% of coastal and marine areas by 2020. This will be achieved through a number of measures including the establishment of networks of protected areas. Many nations have already successfully achieved their target goals for increasing protected areas. And Canada is close to achieving our 2020 Biodiversity Goals and Targets.
But we can do better.
Let's protect 30% by 2030, or even 50%!
We often take for granted what we love — our relationships, our health and nature. Let’s act now to protect as much space and habitat as possible before we lose any more Canadian icons.
Find NET on social media, read our collaborative blog, and stay tuned for the release of our upcoming podcast in early 2019.