Oceans are the Earth’s largest life-support system. They regulate climate, produce oxygen and provide food and livelihoods for billions of people. To survive and prosper, we need healthy oceans. The Foundation promotes marine protected areas, better laws and other strategies to protect Canada’s oceans and marine life biodiversity.
Canada borders three oceans and has the world’s longest coastline. Our marine environment defines us. More than 80 per cent of people in Canada strongly favour protecting marine areas and the life they support. But threats from oil and gas development, shipping traffic and underwater noise, unsustainable commercial and recreational fishing, open-net-pen fish farms, toxins and climate change continue to grow.
Where we are now
Although government announcements about proposed protections for Arctic, Pacific and Atlantic waters signal progress, the quality of proposed protection is uncertain.
We’re holding the federal government to account to meet targets and create quality marine protection that includes networks, ecological diversity and management based on ecosystem needs. We support signed agreements with First Nations and are calling for strong regulations for the updated Fisheries Act.
Get to know the ocean
Oceans cover 71 per cent of the Earth's surface and contain 97 per cent of its water.
Oceans have absorbed more than 90 per cent of emissions-trapped heat since the 1970s.
By 2050, plastic in the oceans will outweigh fish.
Expert views
Pandemic recovery is time to bolster — not roll back — environmental protections
This pandemic presents unprecedented challenges to our health and livelihoods. It also offers opportunities to invest in a transformative recovery.
Former Director General, B.C. and Western Region
Canada has many reasons to celebrate World Oceans Day
The push for greater ocean protection marks a growing shift in our perception of the seas, from a resource storehouse and dumping ground for wastes to a source of life.
Canada’s oceans need your support
We’re calling on the federal government to ensure Canada’s marine protection meets the highest standards possible.