Kelp forests are home and feeding grounds for species like killer whales, sea otters, and salmon and once stretched for hundreds of kilometers. Now, Canada prioritizes business over biodiversity. Shipping laws are so weak that ships from around the world will cross into Canada's oceans to dump their waste directly into the ocean.

In the vast Canadian waters, a pressing issue threatens the delicate balance of our marine ecosystems. Shipping laws in Canada inadvertently contribute to a phenomenon known as aquatic clearcutting, wreaking havoc on our oceans and endangering crucial species. The good news is, you can play a vital role in reversing this alarming trend through our impactful campaign.

The Issue:

Canada’s lax regulations on ocean dumping have unintentionally paved the way for environmental devastation. Ships, encouraged by these laws, freely dispose of their waste at sea upon crossing the maritime border. This not only contributes to the destruction of our kelp forests but also accelerates the decline of critically endangered species.

The Impact:

The consequences of these actions resonate globally. Ships, unhindered by legal barriers, release sewage into our oceans, fracturing vital habitats and jeopardizing the existence of endangered species. The southern resident killer whale population has dwindled to a mere 74 individuals, while endangered sea otters face an uphill battle for survival. Once vibrant kelp forests are now threatened by habitat fragmentation, deadly heatwaves, and red tides.

Our Campaign:

Take a stand against aquatic clearcutting by supporting our campaign. We’re calling on Canada’s Minister of Transport, Honorable Rodriguez, to enact immediate measures against ocean dumping. Our goal is to highlight the critical need for legal protections for the kelp forest ecosystem and endangered species.

How You Can Make a Difference:

By adding your voice to our cause, you contribute to a powerful movement demanding change. Join us in urging Minister Rodriguez to eliminate the open practice of ocean dumping in the Salish and Great Bear Sea. Together, we can help restore Canada’s reputation as an environmental leader and protect our oceans from further harm.

In Conclusion:

Aquatic clearcutting poses a severe threat to our oceans, but with your support, we can turn the tide. Join our campaign today and be a part of the solution for healthier oceans, vibrant ecosystems, and a brighter future. Together, we can revive Canada’s waters and safeguard our planet’s biodiversity.

Killer whale breaching ocean

How are ships getting away with this destruction? Canada has no laws in place to stop them from dumping.

Not just a "Canadian problem", ships from far and wide can cross the Canadian maritime border simply to dump waste into the sea kelp forest (including raw sewage). Water doesn’t respect maritime borders and neither does pollution; global oceans need your help.

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Only 73 Southern Resident Killer Whales remain

At one time kelp forests stretched for kilometers. Now the habitat is fractured- subject to deadly heat waves and red tides. Were this destruction to be visible above the surface, global citizens could see the results: Canada’s shipping laws are promoting aquatic clear-cutting.

Prince Rupert, protect oceans now

I just asked Prince Rupert to include stronger shipping laws for ocean health and marine life. Deadline to submit your comment is February 5, 2022

Stop ocean acidification

Tell your MP we need an updated Canada Shipping Act to stop ship waste dumping

Make a Difference

We have less than ten years to prevent irreversible harm from climate change. Let’s secure a safer planet together.

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