CANADA - Canada’s Minister of Natural Resources, Seamus O’Regan, has unveiled the federal government’s plan to launch its two billion tree initiative in 2021.

The Government of Canada’s plans to plant two billion trees over 10 years, with an investment of CAD 3.16 billion. Meeting this commitment will help Canada address climate change by reducing carbon pollution and is a key part of Canada’s efforts to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.

The government statement says there is no path to net-zero emissions that does not involve our forests. Planting trees is a natural climate solution that reduces emissions while providing other benefits such as improved air and water quality, particularly in urban settings, decreased risk of wildland fire to rural communities and support for biodiversity. It also provides spaces for recreational opportunities that improve quality of life and form part of Canada’s identity.

“Planting two billion trees is more than a plan for climate action. It’s a plan for creating thousands of good, green jobs. We’re confronting the urgency of climate change and getting trees in the ground starting this spring,” Seamus O’Regan said.