Oceana Canada

The oceans around Canada are rich in diverse life, from zooplankton to whales, but many species face threats to their survival. A 2020 Environment and Climate Change report indicated over 2,000 animal species in Canada are at risk of extinction. Among these, several marine animals are classified as endangered under the Species at Risk Act (SARA), which aims to protect and recover these species. Learn more: https://lnkd.in/exzqQHHs   It's time to take action. Become a part of the movement of people across Canada eager to protect the oceans and the animals that call them home. Join our community of Wavemakers at Oceana.ca/Join.  

#NewDiscovery Scientists have uncovered a stunning 10,000-square-metre cold-water soft coral garden off Newfoundland’s coast. Found in the Funk Island Deep, this dense coral habitat boosts biodiversity and offers new insights into marine life in this area. Led by a team from Fisheries and Marine Institute of Memorial University of Newfoundland, the discovery was made using a custom underwater camera, revealing sponges, basket stars, and much more! Next steps? Environmental DNA sampling to learn more about the species thriving there. 🔗 Learn more: https://lnkd.in/erBcDP3B

Today we reflect, listen and learn; honouring National Day of Truth and Reconciliation. At Oceana Canada, we’re grateful to live and work across many regions of the country and have been given the opportunity to partner with Indigenous communities and organizations. We remain committed to respectful collaboration with Indigenous partners to protect healthy oceans and thriving fisheries that support coastal communities. Indigenous knowledge plays a crucial role in the stewardship of marine ecosystems, and we honor its importance in safeguarding the future of our oceans. #NationalDayforTruthAndReconciliation

Last week, Oceana Canada Senior Plastics Campaigner, Anthony Merante, spoke to the Science & Research standing committee of the Canadian government as an expert on plastics and recycling. He reinforced the need to reduce single-use plastic waste by implementing upstream measures such as banning single-use plastics and non-recyclable packaging, and promoting refill and reuse systems. Watch his full statement here: https://lnkd.in/eTECyFG2

Another entangled North Atlantic right whale has been spotted in Canadian waters – this time it’s Chiminea, a female whale already documented with previous entanglements. "Chiminea’s entanglement is a stark reminder that North Atlantic right whales are teetering on the brink of extinction. This critically endangered species has experienced a devastating 2024, with the loss of nine whales so far." – Kim Elmslie, Campaign Director, Oceana Canada Oceana Canada is urging Fisheries and Oceans Canada / Pêches et Océans Canada to implement ropeless fishing gear in high-risk areas to prevent further entanglements and protect these vulnerable whales. Read the full press release: https://lnkd.in/eas7fidu

New plans for recovery could signal a historic step for more fish and a healthier ocean! 🌍 Fisheries and Oceans Canada / Pêches et Océans Canada has just published rebuilding plans for Southern Newfoundland cod and Atlantic mackerel—two vital stocks that have faced years of overfishing and mismanagement. These plans represent a critical opportunity to reverse the damage and rebuild these populations for the future of our marine ecosystems and coastal economies. 👉 Read the full press release: https://lnkd.in/e5xduqdh

New revelations suggest the Minister of Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) has largely ignored critical scientific advice on the reopening of the northern cod fishery. "I did not, and I do not believe that DFO science would recommend the policy put forth by the minister. There is a long history in Canadian fisheries of politics trumping science," said George Rose, a renowned fisheries scientist with 40 years of experience studying cod. "Our fisheries continue to suffer." This short-sighted dismissal of science-based advice puts northern cod and their key prey, capelin, at serious risk - as well as the fisheries and communities that rely on them. Rather than rebuilding healthy stocks, current management seems focused on managing their decline. Canada's long-term recovery plan for northern cod remains shelved. Fisheries management should be driven by science, not politics. We have the laws, policies, and processes to ensure sustainable decisions are made—let’s use them. It's time to rebuild a future where northern cod and coastal communities don’t just survive, but thrive. Read more: https://lnkd.in/eKCWCn-b #OceanConservation #NorthernCod #ScienceMatters #FisheriesManagement #SustainableFisheries

Today is #InternationalDayofCharity, and as we continue our work to protect and restore the ocean, we’re grateful for supporters like you who help make our mission possible. By donating to Oceana Canada, you support the protection of critically endangered North Atlantic right whales, rebuilding wild fish like capelin, and fighting against plastic pollution. Your gift helps restore marine life and habitats, ensuring the health of the ocean and the future of our planet. 🌍🐋 Consider donating today: Oceana.ca/Donate

"Currently, in many fisheries, we may be catching more fish than is sustainable. Fisheries feed the livelihoods of many coastal people, and our cultures are intimately tied to fishing practices. If we care about future generations and want healthy ocean systems, we need to rethink how we’re managing our fisheries." Amanda Bates, marine ecologist at University of Victoria A new study published in the journal Science finds that the sustainability of global fisheries may have been overstated, potentially putting ocean health at risk. This is a crucial moment for us to push for more precautionary approaches to fisheries management to safeguard marine ecosystems and food security. More here: https://lnkd.in/e8XPh78D

ICYMI: Just over a month ago, 133,017 km² of underwater mountains off Vancouver Island were permanently protected! 🌊 The new Marine Protected Area, Tang.ɢwan · ḥačxʷiqak · Tsig̱is, will be co-managed by the Haida, Nuu-chah-nulth, Pacheedaht and Quatsino First Nations, and protects 93% of Canada’s known seamounts. “Oceana Canada has been advocating for the protection of these vital underwater ecosystems since 2018,” said Dr. Robert Rangeley, Oceana Canada’s Science Director. Huge thanks to everyone who helped make this happen! Learn more: https://lnkd.in/erVURKUW