Statement: CPAWS reacts to federal government’s first Nation Building Projects
Government and Policy
September 18, 2025 — As the new federal government accelerates industrial development and unveils its major project list under the Building Canada Act, CPAWS warns that fast-tracking projects without the environmental safeguards Canadians demand could threaten wildlife and their habitat, destroy important ecosystems, and silence nature’s voice. Nature protection must be a core part of our national strategy — not a box to check.
From the vast forests of Northern Ontario to the grasslands of Saskatchewan and the kelp forests and estuaries of British Columbia’s north coast, Canadians are deeply connected to the land and waters that shape their lives. These aren’t just scenic backdrops — they’re sources of food, culture, recreation, communities and economic prosperity.
Recent polling shows that half the country is concerned about bypassing environmental safeguards. They expect progress to go hand in hand with protecting the nature we all depend on. Nature is not an obstacle to progress. It is a prerequisite for long-term stability, food security, and economic resilience. It cleans our water and air, regulates our climate, provides food, and protects communities from floods and extreme weather. These services reduce economic and financial risks, health risks, and lower future government spending while strengthening our national security.
Yet despite these realities, the federal government’s first tranche of major projects under the Building Canada Act threatens species at risk and fails to recognize the value of nature to our national identity, security and prosperity. The Carney government disregards its own platform commitments to proactively rehabilitate and mitigate environmental and species-at-risk impacts in areas slated for significant infrastructure development over the next five years. The Prime Minister has yet to show any sign that his government will keep its promises to protect nature.
Canadians need clear assurances that nature is being treated not just as a holiday destination but as a vital economic asset that belongs on the balance sheet and in the budget. Now is the time to be bold and ambitious. If we want to build, we must build better.
If the federal government continues to ignore its promises to Canadians and its commitments and obligations to other nations by fast-tracking major projects, CPAWS urges it to ensure all fast-tracked infrastructure projects meet the following essential conditions as promised in its platform:
- Protect Canada’s natural assets and make biodiversity conservation central to decision-making;
- Ensure projects do not compromise the survival or recovery of listed species at risk;
- Respect the standard of free, prior, and informed consent and ensure meaningful Indigenous engagement and public participation in planning.
As part of the government’s agenda to fast-track projects, CPAWS calls on the Prime Minister to reaffirm his commitment to nature as a cornerstone of Canada’s economic strength. This includes
- Integrating natural asset valuation into public finance and infrastructure planning;
- Embedding nature protection into national security and budgetary decisions.
The Building Canada Act presents a false and outdated narrative — that environmental safeguards are a barrier to progress. In reality, the Act itself is a barrier: it bypasses decades of hard-won policy improvements, undermines public trust and creates uncertainty for investors, communities and ecosystems alike. Fast-tracking without foresight is not efficiency — it’s recklessness.
With the right conditions, we can shape a bold, inclusive, and environmentally responsible future. Without them, we could lose what makes Canada unique. Canada doesn’t need to choose between development and environmental protection. We need leadership that understands they are inseparable. The future of the places and wildlife we love is in the hands of our leaders. CPAWS is looking to them to make the right decisions for nature, for communities and for Canada’s future.
Sandra Schwartz
National Executive Director,
Canadian Parks and Wilderness Society
To arrange an interview with any spokesperson, please contact:
Anissa Stambouli
National Associate Director, Communications
CPAWS (National)
[email protected]
613-569-7226 (230)