Advocating for conservation action

Leveraging nature-based solutions

Nature-based solutions are tools and actions that help communities mitigate and adapt to climate change while providing benefits for biodiversity. They use the power of nature to save nature. For example, wetlands store large amounts of carbon in their soil. Conserving wetlands ensures this carbon remains locked in, preventing it from being released into the atmosphere as a greenhouse gas. At the same time, conserving these habitats provides essential homes for wildlife and species at risk.

The environmental benefits that habitats like wetlands, grasslands and forests provide are gifts from nature that keep on giving. From water filtration to flood protection to carbon storage, Canada’s natural areas provide more than just a picturesque backdrop to our favourite outdoor activities. They support the health and wellbeing of us all.

Invest in Habitat Infrastructure

Nature-based infrastructure offers a cost-effective way to reduce climate risks, with wetlands and coastal habitats controlling floods, storing water, and protecting against storms and erosion. These natural systems also support jobs and rural economies. Proactive investment is more economical than repairing damage later.

Renew and Fully Fund Core Habitat Programs

Nature-based infrastructure offers a cost-effective way to reduce climate risks, with wetlands and coastal habitats controlling floods, storing water, and protecting against storms and erosion. These natural systems also support jobs and rural economies. Proactive investment is more economical than repairing damage later.

Invest in Ecosystem Mapping and Monitoring

High-resolution wetland and grassland maps are essential for effective infrastructure planning and climate resilience. Reliable data allows early action, prevents expensive restoration, and guides land use decisions. Renewing Canada’s national inventories meets our global obligations and aligns with biodiversity and climate goals.

Advance Mitigation Hierarchy & Offsetting Frameworks

Effective offsetting policies help Canada boost its economy and protect nature. Wetland offsets offer billions in annual flood control, water filtration, and carbon storage. Prioritising nature reduces regulatory risks, speeds approvals, and sustains public support for resource projects. Investments should achieve nature-positive goals to fulfil 2030 commitments.

Contributing to the Government of Canada’s climate and biodiversity goals

Nature-based solutions will play a key role in achieving the ambitious climate and biodiversity goals set by the Government of Canada:

• To protect and restore 30 per cent of its lands and 30 per cent of its waters by 2030 towards the goals of halting and reversing biodiversity loss by 2030 and restoring biodiversity levels by 2050.
• To achieve net-zero emissions by 2050.

Ducks Unlimited Canada is a trusted conservation partner that’s working hard to help achieve these targets by transforming government investments into on-the-ground results. We are also lending our support to develop Canada’s 2030 Biodiversity Strategy that will establish a shared vision for halting and reversing biodiversity loss in Canada, focus on habitat conservation, species at risk, sustainable resource management, and Indigenous-led conservation initiatives, and guide how Canada implements the historic Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework domestically.