water

Water

Canada has 20 per cent of the world’s freshwater stored in its lakes, rivers, aquifers and glaciers. But much of that water is under threat from development of Canada’s other great resources: forestry, oil and gas and mining are particularly harmful to freshwater.

Freshwater is the basis for many Indigenous cultural practices, such as salmon harvesting, which is one of the reasons Indigenous activism often centres around protection of water.

Canada also has the longest coastline in the world, touching three oceans. These waters hold huge cultural significance for Indigenous and non-Indigenous residents, and often form the flashpoints for controversial industries and practices, such as salmon farming, offshore oil and gas development and shipping (particularly shipping of LNG and crude oil). Canada recently announced a $1.5 billion Oceans Protection Plan, and has a stated goal of protecting 10 per cent of its oceans by 2020.

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With headlines blaring about tariffs, a trade war and a 51st state, it can be easy to feel helpless. Here’s where I see hope: The Narwhal is reporting doggedly on issues surrounding the natural world in Canada that feel so under threat today — including the autonomy and sovereignty of Indigenous Peoples. It’s why I’m a member — and why I hope you’ll be one of 400 readers who joins me this April. Sign up now and receive a Narwhal tote bag as a gift of thanks! — Tanya Talaga, journalist, author and recent Narwhal board chair
A note from Tanya Talaga
Circular headshot of Tanya Talaga.
With headlines blaring about tariffs, a trade war and a 51st state, it can be easy to feel helpless. Here’s where I see hope: The Narwhal is reporting doggedly on issues surrounding the natural world in Canada that feel so under threat today — including the autonomy and sovereignty of Indigenous Peoples. It’s why I’m a member — and why I hope you’ll be one of 400 readers who joins me this April. — Tanya Talaga, journalist, author and recent Narwhal board chair
A note from Tanya Talaga
Circular headshot of Tanya Talaga.