Carney announces $1.2 billion investment to strengthen Canada’s ocean protection

Floyd Brenz., Philippine Canadian Inquirer
September 30, 2026

Photo Courtesy: CBC News

Prime Minister Mark Carney has announced a $1.2-billion investment in ocean protection, as Canada prepares for increased marine traffic linked to expanding trade, energy and infrastructure projects on the West Coast.

Speaking in Vancouver, Carney said the funding will strengthen marine conservation, safety, environmental monitoring and emergency preparedness as Canada expands its ports and diversifies trade. The government said more than $740 million will go toward ocean conservation over the next four years.

The measures include expanded Canadian Coast Guard monitoring of marine traffic, stronger marine emergency response, improved ocean science and mapping, and measures to prevent and respond to ship-source pollution. The government is also investing in Indigenous-led stewardship and restoration of coastal and marine ecosystems.

A portion of the funding will support the Northern Shelf Bioregion Reconciliation Framework Agreement, with $186 million earmarked for collaborative governance, conservation, waterway management and emergency preparedness in the Great Bear Sea region.

The announcement comes as Ottawa prepares for potentially higher vessel traffic along the B.C. coast. The federal government is advancing investments in ports and other infrastructure while major energy developments, including the LNG Canada expansion in Kitimat, are also moving forward.

Carney framed the approach as balancing economic development with environmental protection, saying Canada can expand trade and infrastructure while strengthening safeguards for its oceans.

The government said the $1.2-billion package is the first part of a broader national ocean strategy. Two additional pillars, focused on securing Canadian waters and building the ocean economy, are expected to be released in the coming months.