Quebec’s 2030 Nature Plan - nearly $1 billion to protect 30% of its territory

Quebec recently unveiled its 2030 Nature Plan, a $922 million initiative to protect 30% of its territory. This represents a major increase from the current protection rate of ~17%. Environment Minister Benoit Charette presented the plan, which allocates $466.9 million for conservation, $360 million for nature access, and $95.7 million for citizen engagement. Quebec’s plan was developed following the adoption of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, which proposes the “30 by 30” initiative. 

Quebec’s plan comprises three priorities consisting of a total of 14 targets. 

Priority 1: Act to protect and restore biodiversity to ensure ecosystem resilience. 

This objective supports ecosystem protection and restoration across Quebec to halt and reverse biodiversity loss by addressing key drivers: land use change, climate change, and invasive species. Quebec plans to continue efforts in sustainable land management, conservation of natural habitats, restoration of degraded ecosystems, and protection of vulnerable species. It also seeks to strengthen climate adaptation for natural habitats while preserving essential ecological functions. By combining climate action with biodiversity conservation, Quebec can enhance ecosystem resilience, connectivity, and integrity. Additionally, it will increase vigilance to prevent and control the spread of invasive species.

Specific targets are to:

1. Curb biodiversity loss through participatory planning and integrated, biodiversity-friendly management across Quebec’s entire territory, with a focus on combating climate change and improving access to nature.

2. Undertake the restoration of 30% of priority degraded ecosystems to promote biodiversity and access to nature.

3. Conserve 30% of Quebec’s terrestrial and 30% of its marine environments, focusing on effective management, site representativeness, and ecological connectivity, while enhancing access to nature.

4. Protect threatened or vulnerable species in Quebec and advance their recovery.

5. Prevent the introduction of new invasive exotic species and pathogens associated with human activity, slow the spread of existing ones, and limit their impacts through control actions at priority sites.

   
   

Priority 2: Encourage sustainable practices that promote biodiversity and improve access to nature

Many human activities impact biodiversity but rely on healthy ecosystems for sustainability, including agricultural, aquacultural, forestry, and recreational practices. This axis promotes sustainable practices that conserve biodiversity while supporting the economic well-being of Quebec communities, respecting First Nations and Inuit rights. Significant progress has been made in adopting eco-friendly practices, but continued efforts are needed to reduce pollution risks, particularly from excess nutrients and pesticides. A flexible approach is essential to balance economic and environmental goals. Practices in hunting, fishing, and ecotourism must evolve responsibly, ensuring access to nature while preserving it. Strengthening ecotourism and fostering cooperation with local municipalities and Indigenous communities will be key to managing natural resources and promoting sustainable tourism.

Specific targets are to:

6. Ensure the sustainability of agriculture and aquaculture through biodiversity-friendly practices and by reducing nutrient loads and pesticide-related risks to biodiversity.

7. Maintain the sustainability of forestry practices by using resources responsibly and preserving ecosystem services for the benefit of all, including Indigenous and local communities.

8. Strengthen sustainable management and responsible practices in the exploitation of species and natural habitats to ensure the long-term viability of wildlife and plant populations, conserve ecosystem integrity, and improve access to nature.

   
   

Priority 3: Encourage and value the participation of all stakeholders in biodiversity conservation efforts

Biodiversity provides essential resources for our needs, livelihoods, quality of life, and economy, with many sectors relying on ecosystem services. However, economic pressures from our production and consumption patterns threaten these services. To reverse biodiversity loss by 2030, Quebec must better integrate biodiversity into consumption choices and production systems, reducing pollution, overconsumption, and resource waste. Axis 3 seeks to foster action and collaboration among economic actors, citizens, civil society, First Nations, Inuit, and other stakeholders to transition to a society and economy that aligns with nature, benefiting everyone by preserving biodiversity.

Specific targets are to:

9. Strengthen the integration of biodiversity considerations and its multiple values into government interventions.

10. Help businesses and investors take action in favor of biodiversity.

11. Enhance the capacity of Quebecers to make sustainable consumption choices and encourage a greater contribution from economic activities to biodiversity conservation.

12. Increase financial resources allocated to biodiversity.

13. Support Indigenous leadership and initiatives in biodiversity conservation.

14. Mobilize stakeholders around biodiversity conservation issues and access to nature, while supporting Quebec's and international cooperation initiatives in this regard.

    
    

The implementation of the Nature Plan will be guided by the 2024-2028 Action Plan and the initiation of key actions following the budgetary measure announced in 2023. We’re staying tuned to learn more!

Further Reading:

• Nature Plan 2030