Canada announced $6.5 billion in aid for businesses impacted by U.S. tariffs.

Unceded Algonquin Territory — Ottawa, ON — As Canada responds to the economic uncertainty caused by U.S. tariffs on forest products, 14 leading conservation organizations have issued an open letter urging federal party leaders to ensure that relief measures do not lead to the increased destruction of Canada’s primary and old-growth forests.

In their letter, the groups outline key principles that must guide Canada’s response, including prioritizing forest ecosystem health, directing public funding to workers rather than corporations, maintaining access to key export markets and ensuring First Nations leadership and consent are included in forest policy decisions.

“Canada’s forests are more than just an economic resource; they are a foundation of our ecological and cultural heritage, a crucial defence against climate change, and a source of clean air and water,” said Akaash Maharaj, director of policy at Nature Canada. “As we respond to tariff pressures, we cannot afford to double down on the over-harvesting and unsustainable practices that have already pushed our forests to the brink.”

The signatories warn that deregulation and intensified logging — mirroring policies of the Trump administration — would not only degrade Canada’s forests but also put vital export markets at risk. The European Union, for instance, prohibits the import of wood from degraded or deforested areas, making sustainable forestry practices essential for economic resilience.

“We have an opportunity to shift toward a forestry sector that protects biodiversity, supports local communities and respects Indigenous rights,” said Rachel Plotkin, boreal project manager at the David Suzuki Foundation. “Rather than offering a blank cheque to large corporations, we should invest in workers, Indigenous stewardship and value-added industries that create long-term jobs while safeguarding nature.”

The letter also emphasizes that First Nations must be full partners in decision-making, recognizing their leadership in sustainable forest management. It further calls for new investments in value-added wood products — such as engineered lumber — to support local economies and address Canada’s urgent need for sustainable housing materials.

The 14 organizations behind the letter, including Nature Canada, the David Suzuki Foundation, Canadian Parks & Wilderness Society, Environmental Defence and the Wilderness Committee, urge all federal parties to commit to policies that safeguard both forests and the workers who depend on them.

Read the full letter and list of signatories.

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For more information, contact:
Scott Mullenix
media@naturecanada.ca
613-366-4776

Rachel Plotkin
rplotkin@davidsuzuki.org
416-799-8435

Brandon Wei
bwei@davidsuzuki.org
778-772-6138