CPAWS New Brunswick Recommendations on Nature and Parks to NB’s Pre-Budget Consultation
The Canadian Parks and Wilderness Society – New Brunswick Chapter (CPAWS NB) has submitted recommendations to the provincial government urging it to treat nature protection as essential public infrastructure in the upcoming budget.
“Forests, wetlands, watersheds and coastal ecosystems protect communities from flooding, store carbon, support jobs, and reduce long-term public costs,” said Roberta Clowater, Executive Director of CPAWS NB. “Investing in nature is one of the most cost-effective ways the province can strengthen climate resilience and economic stability.”
The submission notes that protected areas across Canada contribute $10.9 billion to GDP and support 150,000 jobs, while in New Brunswick parks and protected areas contribute $207 million to the economy and support about 5,000 jobs.
CPAWS NB is recommending that the province:
- Integrate nature-based solutions into major infrastructure planning.
- Provide stable funding for conservation and land stewardship organizations, and dedicate funding to ensure thorough, early and meaningful consultation and engagement with Indigenous Leaders, Nations and communities for parks and protected areas.
- Support departmental efforts to reach 15% protected land by 2027 and to develop a pathway to 30% by 2030 and invest in protection of natural assets in provincial parks.
“Nature protection isn’t just about conservation – it’s about protecting communities, strengthening the economy, and reducing long-term public liabilities,” said Clowater.
