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CIF-IFC applauds federal government promises for bolder action on climate change

The Canadian Institute of Forestry/Institut forestier du Canada (CIF-IFC) is pleased with the Government of Canada’s focus on building a resilient economy: a cleaner and healthier future for our kids, as put forward in the Speech from the Throne on November 23, 2021.

The government has reaffirmed its commitment to fight climate change and protect the environment, as well as stand up for diversity and inclusion.

“Forests offer social, cultural, and health benefits, and create economic opportunities which support communities across Canada,” mentioned Mark Pearson, executive director, CIF-IFC. “Sustainable forest practices supported by a diverse and inclusive forest sector strengthen Canada’s efforts to build a resilient economy that benefits Canadians from all walks of life.”

The Speech from the Throne promises bolder action on climate change, stating: “to address the realities communities across the country already face, the government will also strengthen action to prevent and prepare for floods, wildfires, droughts, coastline erosion, and other extreme weather worsened by climate change.”

Forest products and sustainable forest management can play an important role in mitigating climate change and providing green alternatives. “Planting the right tree in the right location, and for the right reasons will help to mitigate climate change and build thriving forests,” stated Pearson. “Not only do trees sequester carbon, they help to clean water and reduce erosion to
prevent floods.”

As the government seeks to meet its commitments, collaboration and partnering with all stakeholders including provinces, territories, Indigenous communities, municipalities, and nongovernmental organizations will be crucial.

“Through the CIF-IFC’s well established programs, partnerships, initiatives, and national representation, we have a long-standing history of successful project and program delivery,” noted Pearson. “With our network, connections, and organizational capacity, we offer our expertise and services to help fulfil the directions and goals outlined in the Speech from the
Throne.”

Formed in 1908, the CIF-IFC is the national voice of forest practitioners and many others with an interest in forestry and forests. The Institute strives to provide national leadership, promote competence, and foster public awareness of Canadian and international forestry/forest issues.