On January 13, 2023, Canada and the Yukon signed an agreement in principle to deepen collaboration on planting 2 billion trees nationally. This ambitious goal, which is set to be achieved over the next ten years, is part of a larger effort to combat climate change and protect Canada’s natural resources.
The agreement, which was signed by Canada’s Minister of Natural Resources, Jonathan Wilkinson, and the Richard Mostyn Minister of Community Services, Government of Yukon, is a significant step forward in the country’s efforts to combat climate change and promote sustainable development. The planting of 2 billion trees is expected to not only help to reduce carbon emissions but also to improve air and water quality, protect wildlife habitats, and provide economic benefits to communities across the country.
“Canada’s commitment to plant two billion trees is a key part of our collective effort to tackle the twin crises of climate change and biodiversity loss. The Agreement in Principle announced today between Canada and the Yukon will further advance efforts to expand our forests, helping to capture and store carbon from the atmosphere, improve air and water quality, restore nature and biodiversity, cool our urban centres and create sustainable jobs.” Jonathan Wilkinson, Minister of Natural Resources, Government of Canada
The agreement will see the Canadian government and the Yukon government working together to identify and prioritize areas for tree planting, develop planting strategies and protocols, and support the training and education of local communities. The collaboration will also include research and monitoring to ensure the success of the tree-planting efforts.
“The 2 Billion Trees program is helping Yukoners reduce wildfire risk by planting the seeds of fire-resistant aspen forests where they can do the greatest good to our communities. We appreciate this important partnership with the Government of Canada.” Richard Mostyn, Minister of Community Services, Government of Yukon
The planting of 2 billion trees is a significant undertaking, and it is expected that the effort will involve a wide range of partners, including Indigenous communities, industry, conservation organizations, and other levels of government. These partners will play a critical role in identifying areas for planting, sourcing and planting trees, and monitoring the success of the program.
The Canadian government has already committed $3.16 billion over the next ten years to support the planting of 2 billion trees. This funding will be used to support the acquisition of land, the development of planting strategies, and the support of local communities. The Yukon government has also committed to providing significant funding and resources to support the planting of trees in the territory.
Layla