Wildlife and Ecosystem Protection

Biodiversity

Loss of biodiversity - or the diversity of species - and threats to the ecosystems, are recognized as serious global issues. Responding to those concerns, Canada, along with many other nations, signed the Convention on Biological Diversity. This international commitment negotiated by the United Nations came into effect on December 29, 1993.

The Biodiversity Convention has three objectives:

• Conservation of biodiversity;
• Sustainable use of biological resources;
• Sharing of benefits arising from the use of genetic resources.

The Canadian Biodiversity Strategy grew out of Canada's commitment to the Convention. Developed in cooperation with provincial and federal governments, industry, nongovernment organizations and aboriginal groups, the Canadian Strategy was released in November 1995. It is a guide to the implementation of the Convention in Canada. Five months later, all provinces and territories signed a statement of commitment with Canada to implement the Strategy locally.

Manitoba has integrated the principles of biodiversity into provincial programs. The Biodiversity Conservation program of the Wildlife and Ecosystem Protection Branch (formerly known as the Manitoba Conservation Data Centre) was created to collect and disseminate information on provincial plants, animals and natural plant communities, the building blocks of biodiversity. The principles are further reflected in Sustainable Development Strategies for Natural Lands and Special Places, Forestry, Energy and Mines, and Soil and Water, and the Sustainable Development Strategies for Wildlife and Fish. They guide activities in support of Manitoba species at risk. The Prairie Conservation Action Plan, long-term forest management plans, and international efforts, such as CITES reflect the intent and emphasis of the Biodiversity Strategy.