WWF-Canada Urges Canada to Close $1.5B Biodiversity Funding Gap as Key Fund Expires
Event summary
- WWF-Canada calls for $1.5B in long-term investment to close biodiversity funding gap as Enhanced Nature Legacy fund expires March 2026.
- Canada has protected only 13.8% of land and 15.5% of waters, far short of 30% targets under Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework.
- WWF-Canada and partners have restored 84,000 hectares, with additional 28,000 hectares in progress through Mission Restoration program.
- Government's cancellation of 2 Billion Trees program and failure to renew Enhanced Nature Legacy fund threatens progress on biodiversity goals.
The big picture
WWF-Canada's call for urgent funding highlights a critical gap in Canada's biodiversity strategy, with climate-fueled disasters and species decline accelerating. The expiration of the Enhanced Nature Legacy fund and cancellation of the 2 Billion Trees program signal potential policy missteps that could derail progress. With only four years left to meet 30x30 targets, the need for renewed investment and coordinated action is paramount.
What we're watching
- Funding Renewal
- Whether Canada will renew the Enhanced Nature Legacy fund or allocate additional $1.5B to meet 2030 biodiversity targets.
- Policy Execution
- The pace at which Canada accelerates land and water protection to meet 30% targets under the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework.
- Indigenous Partnerships
- How increased government support for Indigenous-led conservation efforts will impact progress on biodiversity goals.