Domtar Invests in Indigenous-Led Conservation Efforts in Canada
In an important move towards sustainable development and Indigenous empowerment, Domtar Corporation has unveiled an investment of $135,000 to bolster the First 30x30 Canada initiative. This groundbreaking program is designed to support conservation projects that are led by Indigenous communities, aiming to protect 30% of Canada's lands and waters by the year 2030. The commitment comes as part of the broader Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, through which over 190 nations have pledged to focus on extensive conservation efforts.
Domtar, a recognized leader in sustainability within the forest products sector, is one of the early investors in the First 30x30 initiative. Sabrina de Branco, Domtar's global chief sustainability officer, expressed enthusiasm about their role in this significant project. “As a company, we’ve always prioritized sustainability,” de Branco stated. “Along with our owner, Jackson Wijaya, we are focused on forming partnerships that leverage nature-based solutions to tackle climate challenges while yielding social benefits, especially for Indigenous nations.”
The First 30x30 Canada projects will mainly concentrate on Indigenous Protected and Conserved Areas (IPCAs). These are special lands and waters specifically identified by Indigenous communities for conservation efforts, reflecting their deep-rooted commitment to environmental protection. The establishment of over 100 IPCAs has already been proposed by Indigenous governments across Canada, encompassing forests and other ecologically significant regions.
“Domtar’s participation in this initiative is truly exciting as it underscores a critical step towards the protection and restoration of these vital IPCAs,” added de Branco. “Indigenous-led conservation efforts are vital for safeguarding culturally and ecologically significant territories, emphasizing the rights of Indigenous nations to lead such initiatives.”
Lana Wilhelm, Domtar's director of Indigenous Relations, articulated the inherent value of Indigenous knowledge in conservation. “This partnership endorses our commitment to sustainable resource management, something that is integral to our operations. By engaging Indigenous communities and applying their extensive knowledge, we will enhance our conservation strategies,” she noted.
Steven Nitah, managing director at Nature for Justice Canada, highlighted the importance of forests in Indigenous cultures. “For numerous Indigenous nations, forests are woven into the very fabric of our culture, economies, and identities,” he said. “Domtar’s involvement exemplifies genuine leadership within the forest product industry, supporting the program as a means to invest in Indigenous nations along with the landscapes they protect.”
Domtar is not just a company operating in isolation; it is a pivotal player in a larger movement aimed at preserving ecosystems and respecting Indigenous sovereignty. By investing in Indigenous-led conservation, Domtar is making substantial strides in promoting sustainable land use that benefits both the environment and local communities. This approach not only addresses the urgent need for ecological preservation but also prioritizes the voices and leadership of Indigenous peoples, reinforcing their rightful role in managing their ancestral territories.
The First 30x30 Canada program is an innovative partnership led by organizations such as Nature for Justice and the IISAAK OLAM Foundation, among others. It promotes nature-based solutions aimed at combating climate change, restoring ecosystems, and ensuring the sovereignty of Indigenous communities over their lands. For anyone looking to learn more about this transformative initiative or to stay updated on developments, visiting www.first30x30.earth is highly encouraged.
Domtar, headquartered in Fort Mill, South Carolina, is a leading manufacturer in the forest products industry, employing around 14,000 people across more than 60 locations in North America. The company’s extensive capabilities encompass pulp, paper, packaging, and tissue production, making it a critical component in the sustainable resource management landscape. With a commitment to global customer needs, Domtar seeks to continually improve its operational excellence through sustainable practices and high-quality products. For further insights into their initiatives and operations, visit their website at www.domtar.com.