Opinion
Canada’s ocean protection ripple could become a wave
By Bill Wareham, Linda Nowlan, Sabine Jessen, Susanna D. Fuller June 12, 2017
It’s now up to the federal government to move forward with a stronger Oceans Act and support for marine protection that provides refuge for ocean creatures, ensures economic opportunities for local communities and respects the rights of indigenous peoples.
Just as Canadians don’t expect to see oil wells in Gros Morne National Park, pictured, the WWF poll shows that 90 per cent of Canadians support a ban on bottom trawling, mining, and oil and gas development in marine protected areas. Photograph courtesy of Wikimedia
Last week, a Canadian delegation joined world leaders in New York to support the United Nations’ goal to conserve and sustainably use the world’s oceans, seas and marine resources. Canada borders three oceans and has the world’s longest coastline, so marine protection should be central to our international reputation. A World Wildlife Fund poll shows 83 per cent of people in Canada are strongly in favour of protecting marine animals and habitats. Canadians expect their political representatives to keep orcas, belugas, salmon, sea otters, puffins, and cod healthy.
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