Alberta is home to a remarkable diversity of plants, animals, and ecosystems — from grasslands and wetlands to forests and alpine habitats. Sadly, many of these species and habitats are increasingly at risk. Pressures from industrial development, climate change, habitat loss, and gaps in legal protections mean that without decisive action, we stand to lose some of our most irreplaceable natural treasures.
In 2024, the Environmental Law Centre (ELC) released its Model Endangered Species Act — a forward‑thinking, science‑based framework designed to address these growing threats. Grounded in science, Indigenous knowledge, and the precautionary principle, the Model ESA provides a clear, principled approach to protecting and recovering Alberta’s species at risk.
This framework calls for:
- Timely action to prevent further decline of vulnerable species.
- Transparent decision‑making that builds public trust.
- Accountability measures to ensure commitments are met.
If implemented, these recommendations would strengthen Alberta’s legal protections for biodiversity and help secure a healthy, functioning environment for generations to come.
📄 Read the full recommendations or explore this quick summary on the path forward for Alberta’s biodiversity:
Download the Model Endangered Species Act Summary