Thunder Bay, ON – October 1, 2024 – The Anishnawbe Business Professional Association (ABPA) made a strong call to action today at a Nature United event in Ottawa, urging significant investment in Indigenous-led nature-based climate solutions.
Nature United, a conservation organization, gathered leaders to discuss their new report, “Unlocking the power of nature-based solutions.” ABPA President Jason Rasevych used the platform to demand that the federal government dedicate at least $1 billion from its Indigenous loan guarantee program to support these initiatives. He further emphasized the need for crown governments to collaborate with Indigenous communities on atmospheric benefit sharing agreements for traditional lands and expand opportunities for Indigenous Protected Conservation Areas.
“We recognize the invaluable role that Indigenous communities play in stewarding our natural landscapes,” stated Rasevych. “Supporting Indigenous-led nature-based climate solutions is not only a step towards environmental sustainability but also an act of reconciliation and respect for traditional knowledge.”
The ABPA outlined key strategies to increase private investment in these solutions, including:
- Public-Private Partnerships: Incentivizing private investment through tax breaks, grants, and matching funds.
- Corporate Engagement: Encouraging businesses to include Indigenous-led solutions in their sustainability plans.
- Market Development: Creating markets for nature-based carbon offsets linked to Indigenous Protected Conservation Areas.
- Awareness and Education: Promoting the benefits and potential returns of investing in Indigenous-led initiatives.
- Innovative Financing: Exploring options like green bonds and impact investing.
- Regulatory Support: Developing policies that support Indigenous-led solutions and recognize Indigenous land stewardship.
Highlighting the fact that Indigenous peoples hold inherent rights to 80% of the planet’s remaining biodiversity, the ABPA stressed the critical importance of First Nations leadership in driving sustainable change. The organization is committed to working with Indigenous organizations and private investors to ensure climate action respects Indigenous rights and principles.
About the ABPA:
The Anishnawbe Business Professional Association (www.anishnawbebusiness.com) is a non-profit organization based in Thunder Bay, Ontario, serving First Nation businesses in Treaty #3, Treaty #5, Treaty #9, and Robinson Huron and Superior Treaty Areas. The ABPA advocates for its members on business and public issues, fosters economic development, and provides a platform for collaboration and information sharing.
