The victories were widespread, from the protection of Isabella Bay as the Niginganiq National Wildlife Area, a sanctuary for threatened bowhead whales on Baffin Island, to the passage of Ontario’s Green Energy Act, which promises to serve as a model for jurisdictions across North America.
Perhaps the biggest reason for celebration is the evidence that tough economic times seemed only to strengthen public and corporate commitments to conservation. Canadians are increasingly embracing the notion that, rather than being in opposition, it is by taking care of the environment that we will ensure our economic future.
The evidence? Earth Hour 2009 was an even bigger global success than last year, proof of overwhelming public support for climate action. Meanwhile, Loblaw Companies Ltd. made a precedent-setting commitment to sustainable seafood and Fairmont Hotels & Resorts became the latest company to join the ranks of WWF’s global Climate Savers.
To keep delivering this caliber of results, we’ve set our sights on three priority areas in the coming years: climate, water, and people.
- Climate, because rising global temperatures is the single biggest threat to biodiversity facing the world, with impacts already evident in Canada’s Arctic. In 2009, the stakes are higher than ever, as global leaders hammer out a new climate deal to replace Kyoto.
- Water, because life on Earth couldn’t survive without it. With the world’s longest coastline and more than our fair share of global freshwater resources, Canadians have a special duty to steward these resources responsibly.
- People, because we won’t achieve sustainability without engaging the people who can make it happen: decision makers, industry leaders, and ordinary Canadians across the country.
At WWF, we invest in science-based solutions to ensure a living planet. Thanks to supporters like you, the benefits will be enjoyed for generations.
| Patricia Koval Chairman |
Gerald Butts President and CEO |
