Canada Outlines Biodiversity Finance and Climate Action Priorities for COP17 and COP31

Canada has announced its priorities for the upcoming United Nations biodiversity and climate conferences, with a focus on mobilising conservation finance, strengthening climate resilience and advancing international environmental cooperation. Julie Dabrusin, Minister of the Environment, Climate Change and Nature, will lead Canada's delegations to the Convention on Biological Diversity COP17 in Yerevan, Armenia, from 19 to 30 October 2026, and the UN Climate Change Conference COP31 in Antalya, Türkiye, from 9 to 20 November 2026.

 

At COP17, Canada will work with international partners to accelerate implementation of the Kunming-Montréal Global Biodiversity Framework, which includes the global target of conserving 30% of land and sea areas by 2030. Dabrusin and Nathalie Provost, Secretary of State for Nature, will emphasise Indigenous leadership in conservation and approaches to mobilising public and private investment for biodiversity protection. Canada will also organise two official side events focused on innovative nature finance and Indigenous-led conservation. Provost said, "Nature loss is a global challenge that requires countries to work together and turn shared commitments into action."

 

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At COP31, Canada's priorities will include reducing methane emissions, accelerating electrification, strengthening adaptation measures for vulnerable communities and mobilising climate finance from public and private sources. The delegation will engage with governments, Indigenous representatives, businesses, civil society and youth organisations to advance implementation of international climate commitments. Canada will also host a national pavilion for the fifth consecutive year, providing a platform for showcasing domestic climate technologies and encouraging international collaboration.

 

The government highlighted existing domestic investments supporting its international commitments. Through its national nature protection strategy and related programmes, Canada has identified $3.8 billion in investments and funding to advance biodiversity conservation and its goal of protecting 30% of lands and waters by 2030. Prime Minister Mark Carney has also announced a $1.2 billion investment in ocean protection, including enhanced marine monitoring, scientific research, ecosystem protection and incident preparedness. Canada is additionally pursuing major clean energy developments to support electrification and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

 

Dabrusin emphasised the importance of international cooperation in addressing environmental challenges. "Climate change and biodiversity loss are global challenges that no country can solve alone," she said. Canada's participation in both conferences will focus on translating existing biodiversity and climate commitments into practical measures, particularly through conservation partnerships, investment mobilisation and cooperation with Indigenous communities. The outcomes of COP17 and COP31 will help determine how these priorities are advanced through international agreements and future national implementation.

 

Source: Environment and Climate Change Canada