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 silver schools of herrings, from salmon, which are foundational in both ocean and forest ecosystems, to shellfish, 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 residents, and the province as a whole. As a critical cornerstone of biodiversity and a source of sustenance, recreation, and culture, the ocean’s rich web of life calls us to safeguard its richness for future generations.
Unfortunately, overfishing, habitat degradation, increased shipping, and climate change are threatening the health and resilience of the ocean and the coastal peoples that depend on it.
CPAWS-BC is working to advance marine protection and promote sustainable ocean management. To secure a healthy ocean, now and for the future, we need to work together and uphold marine conservation standards by enforcing strong and effective protection, and strive beyond mere target numbers.
Keep reading to learn more about how we work, the different types of marine protection in BC, and where we are advocating for effective, strong marine management.
What We Do
WORK WITH
conservation partners and communities to identify new priority areas and appropriate tools needed for protection measures
ENGAGE
with First Nations, crown governments, communities, and conservation and industry stakeholders to establish new conservation areas and improve protection and management for MPAs across BC
INSPIRE
people to actively engage in ocean conservation by participating in public consultations and advocating for strong protection in MPAs
COLLABORATE
with scientists and community partners to study the benefits, opportunities, and impacts of MPAs
SUPPORT
Indigenous-led marine conservation by providing GIS capacity on projects, amplifying announcements, and raising awareness about the need to support Indigenous-led initiatives with governments and the public
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 even though conservation is not their 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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