The Big Wild has committed to the protection of at least 50% of Canada’s wilderness. How long this will take is anybody’s guess. So when an agreement comes along that moves the dial closer to our goal, there’s reason to celebrate. Enter the Canadian Boreal Forest Agreement.

The Canadian Parks and Wilderness Society describe it as the most important agreement in forest conservation in Canadian history. After two years of talks between 21 forest companies and nine environmental organizations in Canada, both sides have arrived at an unprecedented agreement dedicated to sustainable forestry products and protection of Canada’s boreal forest.

The agreement covers more than 72 million hectares of public forests licensed to member companies of the Forest Products Association of Canada. The agreement marks a major step toward The Big Wild vision of protecting at least half of Canada's public land.

FPAC members have committed to running their business in balance with the conservation needs of the forests they depend on. In turn, the nine environmental organizations are broadcasting loud and clear that these 21 companies support forest conservation efforts. The agreement also recognizes the rights and titles of aboriginal peoples who depend on Canada’s boreal forest.  And just think what this will do for caribou living in the boreal forest. 

This agreement between industry and environmental leaders signals an example of commitment to a more sustainable future and will hopefully encourage government leaders to take action on climate change as it relates to forest conservation, forest product life cycles and Canadian biodiversity.

This is just a quick overview of what the agreement entails. If you want to know more, like which companies and organizations are involved or details behind this commitment, take a look at this straight-forward and easy to understand website: canadianborealforestagreement.ca