Canada’s federal government invests in protecting oceans and marine biodiversity

As of November 2022, Transport Canada has allocated $1.2 billion to a total of 29 ocean rescue and clean-up initiatives across Canada, with the funding awarded under the Oceans Protection Plan.

"Of these initiatives, 19 are aimed at improving marine safety and 10 are aimed at partnering with Indigenous and coastal communities to better protect our oceans and coastlines," said federal Transport Minister Omar Alghabra.

The initiative includes improving the system for spill response, as well as other environmental responses.

At the United Nations Convention on Marine Biodiversity (COP15) in mid-December, Fisheries and Oceans Canada and the Canadian Coast Guard announced new support for ocean restoration, conservation, and scientific research across Canada.

Through $227.5 million in funding programs, the federal government aims to strengthen its marine conservation efforts by improving the understanding of the marine environment, restoring aquatic habitat, and contributing to conservation initiatives.

Funding will be allocated by program as follows: $75 million over the next five years for the Aquatic Ecosystem Restoration Fund, $7.5 million over three years for the Ecosystems and Oceans Contribution Program, and $6.9 million for the first round of a national call for proposals under the Oceans Management Contribution Program.