Ocean
The coast of British Columbia is home to rocky shorelines, intricate fjord networks, and a vibrant diversity of marine life.
From iconic orcas and humpback whales to the myriad of fish like small eel-like sandlance, silver schools of herrings, and salmon, who are foundational in both ocean and forest ecosystems, as well as shellfish and marine invertebrates that decorate its waters, coastal and marine ecosystems across BC are a true marvel.
Beyond its ecological significance, these waters also hold cultural, social, and economic value for Indigenous communities, local livelihoods, and the province as a whole. As a critical cornerstone of biodiversity and a source of sustenance, recreation, and culture, BC’s rich web of life calls us to safeguard its richness for future generations.
Canada is committed to protecting 25% of its ocean by 2025; this commitment not only contributes to global efforts in marine conservation but also enforces Canada’s dedication to advancing marine protection and promoting sustainable ocean management. And while achieving this target is a critical step, it’s equally imperative to uphold marine conservation standards through enforcing strong and effective protection, and strive beyond mere target numbers.
What We Do
ADVOCATE
for ocean protection and help establish marine protected areas along the marine waters of BC
ENGAGE
with first nations, crown governments, conservation, and industry to improve management and protection standards
INSPIRE
people to engage in public consultations and advocate for strong protection in MPAs through public outreach and education
WORK WITH
conservation partners and communities to identify new areas and appropriate tools needed for protection measures
COLLABORATE
with scientists and community partners to study the benefits, opportunities, and impacts of MPAs
SUPPORT
Indigenous-led marine conservation by providing GIS capacity, amplifying announcements, and raising awareness
Marine Protection Tools
Marine Protected Area
Areas of the ocean that provide legal protection for marine ecosystems and support the long-term conservation of the marine environment. MPAs can effectively address anthropogenic threats and industrial activities that harm marine ecosystems. When managed effectively, MPAs can help protect and restore the ocean, while also providing significant social, economic, and cultural benefits to coastal communities.
Marine Protected Area Network
A collection of interconnected MPAs that are designed and managed to function together, is called a Marine Protected Area Network. By considering entire ecosystems, MPA networks can provide more comprehensive benefits and achieve conservation goals more effectively than individual sites alone.
Other Effective Conservation Measures
Areas, other than protected areas, that are managed to achieve long-term conservation outcomes while meeting fother objectives. This differs from a protected area which identifies conservation as a primary objective. In Canada, the most common OCEMs are fishing closures, also known as marine refuges.
Indigenous Protected and Conserved Areas
The Indigenous Circle of Experts (ICE) report, We Will Rise, defines IPCAs as “lands and waters where Indigenous governments have the primary role in protecting and conserving ecosystems through Indigenous laws, governance and knowledge systems. Culture and language are the heart and soul of an IPCA”.
To learn more about how MPAs are created, their benefits for people and the ocean, and how to improve them check out this three part series: MPA 101 StoryMap
Our Campaigns
Learn More About MPAs
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