Good morning! This is Queen Street Analytics' weekly roundup of regulatory developments, legislative discussions, political announcements and other government-related news regarding the environment, climate change, and fish, wildlife and habitat conservation. Every Monday, we break down the most important updates in this space in under five minutes.

Want to see GR activities in areas of the economy related to the Environment channel? Don’t miss this week’s updates in Oil & Gas and Mining.

Dates: 2025-07-20 to 2025-07-26

📋 In This Week's Newsletter

• 🇨🇦 Canadian Federal GR News
• 🇺🇸 US Federal GR News
• 🗺️ Canadian Provincial GR News
• 💬 Government Consultations
• 📚 What We're Reading This Week

Canadian Federal GR News

Canada Publishes Implementation Framework for the Right to a Healthy Environment under CEPA

Environment and Climate Change Canada has published the Implementation Framework for the Right to a Healthy Environment, as required under the modernized Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999 (CEPA). This document establishes substantive and procedural elements for decision-makers, including environmental justice, intergenerational equity, and non-regression. The framework also details guidance for integrating Indigenous knowledge into CEPA administration. Parallel releases include the 'Plan of Priorities' for chemicals management—identifying over 30 high-risk substance groups (approximately 500 chemicals) prioritized for assessment—and a strategy to replace, reduce, or refine vertebrate animal testing, which builds on the ban of cosmetic animal testing announced in 2023. A transition period is in place as CEPA integrates these changes, and stakeholders will have opportunities to provide input via a new web portal. Consultations on the framework drew input from Indigenous partners, NGOs, and the public between 2024 and 2025.

Sources: Announcements: www.canada.ca

Canada Signs $300 Million Grant for One of World's Largest Indigenous-Led Land Conservation Projects

Minister Julie Dabrusin and Danny Yakeleya, Chair of the Our Land for the Future Trust, formalized an agreement for 'NWT: Our Land for the Future,' with Canada contributing $300 million and private partners adding $75 million. This initiative will support stewardship and conservation covering up to 380,000 square kilometres—almost 30% of the Northwest Territories—including the creation and protection of new terrestrial and freshwater conservation areas. Indigenous Guardians programs are slated for expansion, aiming to create hundreds of jobs focused on ecological monitoring and land restoration. The project is governed by 21 Indigenous governments and will support diverse economic models including harvesting economies and ecotourism, while aiming to streamline conservation planning and provide regulatory clarity for industrial projects in the region.

Sources: Announcements: www.canada.ca

Major Investment Targets Forest and Habitat Restoration in Alberta through 2 Billion Trees Program

On July 21, 2025, over $125 million in federal funds was allocated to four projects intended to plant 12 million trees across Alberta, as part of the 2 Billion Trees (2BT) program. Recipients include The Carbon Farmer, Project Forest, and First Indigenous Biomass Inc., focusing on reforestation of cleared agricultural lands and remote Indigenous communities. The province will also expand its Caribou Habitat Recovery Program with $83.7 million earmarked to restore vegetation within caribou ranges by 2030. These projects aim to enhance wildlife habitats, foster biodiversity, sequester carbon, and provide employment, particularly among Indigenous and rural communities. Training and youth engagement are built into the project design in partnership with academic institutions.

Sources: Announcements: www.canada.ca, Announcements: www.canada.ca

Spotted Owl Critical Habitat in BC Receives Additional Protection in Widgeon Valley National Wildlife Area

The Department of the Environment has published a notice expanding legal protection to the critical habitat of the endangered Northern Spotted Owl (caurina subspecies) within the federally protected Widgeon Valley National Wildlife Area in British Columbia, pursuant to the Species at Risk Act. As of 90 days post-publication, subsection 58(1) of the Act will apply to critical habitat identified in the amended recovery strategy, strengthening enforcement and regulatory certainty for activities within this area. This move further aligns with recovery plans published in the Species at Risk Public Registry, and may influence project approvals and forestry operations within and adjacent to protected areas.

Sources: Gazette, Part I: www.gazette.gc.ca

Ministerial Condition Issued on Non-Functionalized Agglomerated Multi-Walled Carbon Nanotubes Under CEPA

On July 26, 2025, the Minister of the Environment issued new ministerial conditions for the manufacturing and import of certain non-functionalized agglomerated multi-walled carbon nanotubes, after Health and Environment Canada determined the substance to be potentially toxic under section 64 of CEPA. Usage is prohibited in consumer products likely to generate respiratory particles, including sprays, aerosols, and coatings with concentrations above 0.01%. The conditions stipulate record-keeping, notification, disposal protocols, and limits on content in structural building materials. Releases to the environment trigger immediate industry notification requirements to enforcement officers. These conditions come into force as of July 10, 2025.

Sources: Gazette, Part I: www.gazette.gc.ca

Canada Invests $14.4 Million in 17 Projects to Foster Youth Environmental Literacy

Minister Julie Dabrusin announced more than $14.4 million in funding through the Climate Action and Awareness Fund for 17 projects focused on environmental education for young Canadians, including $3.2 million dedicated to Indigenous-led projects. Supported initiatives include curriculum development, community outreach, and hands-on learning activities in parks and schools. BC Parks Foundation received $1.8 million, matched with $1.5 million from British Columbia’s Ministry of Environment and Parks, to support a climate and biodiversity leadership program for youth.

Sources: Announcements: www.canada.ca, Announcements: www.canada.ca

British Columbia Rockfish Harvester Fined for Fisheries Act Violations

Fisheries and Oceans Canada reported that Roger Atchison, captain and co-owner of the commercial vessel Savage Eagle, pleaded guilty in Prince Rupert court to violations of the Fisheries Act. Between October 18 and 23, 2023, Atchison released over 9,000 pounds of rockfish and failed to maintain accurate records of fishing activities, contravening licence conditions. A fine of $25,312 was levied. The case underscores ongoing enforcement of quota, retention, and reporting requirements in the rockfish fishery, which covers 37 species along the BC coast.

Sources: Announcements: www.canada.ca

Canada Gazette Procurement Inquiry Initiated: Complaint over Wildlife Control Services Contract

The Canadian International Trade Tribunal has initiated an inquiry into a challenge by West Coast Wildlife Control Services Ltd. regarding a Department of National Defence wildlife control services procurement managed by Public Works and Government Services Canada. The inquiry is examining whether the successful bidder met mandatory solicitation requirements and if the technical evaluation provided an unfair advantage. The decision to conduct the inquiry was made on March 12, 2025. Findings could influence standards for wildlife control contracts at the federal level.

Sources: Gazette, Part I: www.gazette.gc.ca

Commemoration of Jasper, Alberta Wildfires: Federal Resilience and Community Recovery Efforts

Minister Eleanor Olszewski attended an event marking the one-year anniversary of the Jasper wildfires, which resulted in the destruction of over 30% of structures in Jasper and claimed the life of one firefighter. Federal agencies acknowledged ongoing collaboration with local stakeholders and emphasized efforts to rebuild community infrastructure and enhance climate resilience, referencing support for Jasper National Park and broader economic recovery measures.

Sources: Announcements: www.canada.ca

Federal Disaster Support Extended for Saskatchewan Wildfires

Public Safety Minister Eleanor Olszewski approved a Request for Federal Assistance from the Government of Saskatchewan in response to ongoing wildfires. The federal effort involves deploying additional firefighters, air assets, and working with the Canadian Armed Forces for operational support. The federal coordination is managed by the Government Operations Centre.

Sources: Announcements: www.canada.ca

US Federal GR News

Executive Order Issued to Accelerate Federal Permitting for Data Center Infrastructure

On July 23, 2025, President Donald J. Trump signed an executive order designed to expedite the permitting of large-scale data centers and associated projects on federal land. The order applies to 'Data Center Projects'—facilities requiring over 100 MW for AI-related operations—and establishes protocols for financial support, environmental review acceleration under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), and regulatory streamlining under EPA oversight. Key agencies are directed to prioritize such projects, and efficiency mandates are established via FAST-41 and updated permitting coordination measures. The order also formalizes measures on biological and water permitting procedures for applicable projects.

Sources: White House Announcements: www.whitehouse.gov

NMFS Proposes Authorization for Scripps Institution Seismic Survey in Cascadia Subduction Zone

The National Marine Fisheries Service invited public comment through August 20, 2025, on a proposed incidental harassment authorization for Scripps Institution of Oceanography’s seismic survey in the Northeast Pacific Ocean. The operation will deploy a two-airgun array and ensonify up to 221 km² per day over two survey days, with takes proposed for 24 marine mammal species, primarily by Level B harassment. Mitigation includes pre-clearance, ramp-up, and shutdown zones. The supporting Federal Register notice details effects on migratory whales (blue, fin, humpback, sei, sperm) and pinnipeds, along with vessel strike and entanglement protocols.

Sources: U.S. Federal Announcements: www.federalregister.gov

Rule Rescinds BLM Prospecting Regulations for National Forest Wilderness

The Bureau of Land Management has announced a direct final rule rescinding 43 CFR 3823.1 governing mineral prospecting in National Forest System wilderness, effective September 22, 2025 barring adverse comments. The move eliminates regulations considered duplicative of current US Forest Service rules at 36 CFR 228.15. The rule follows standard federal procedural requirements and is classified as non-significant under Executive Order 12866, with no immediate operational effects for mineral resource project proponents.

Sources: U.S. Federal Announcements: www.federalregister.gov

NOAA Issues Permits and Proposes Data Collection for Fisheries and Marine Mammals

NOAA has issued a 10-year scientific research permit to Kristen Hart, USGS Wetlands and Aquatic Research Center, authorizing capture and data collection on sea turtles in the Gulf of America, Atlantic, and US Virgin Islands for research under the Endangered Species Act. Separately, public comment is open for 30 days on information collection related to incidental take authorizations for marine mammals under the Marine Mammal Protection Act (OMB Control Number 0648-0151). Annual reporting and application requirements are being reviewed for extension and revision.

Sources: U.S. Federal Announcements: www.federalregister.gov, U.S. Federal Announcements: www.federalregister.gov

President Signs Jocelyn Nungaray National Wildlife Refuge Act and Disaster Relief Bill

On July 24, 2025, the President signed S.1596, renaming Texas’s Anahuac National Wildlife Refuge as the “Jocelyn Nungaray National Wildlife Refuge.” H.R. 517 provides filing relief for natural disaster victims by updating Internal Revenue Code deadlines, and H.R. 4 enacts specific federal budgetary rescissions. These laws respond to wildlife conservation and administrative disaster relief processes.

Sources: White House Announcements: www.whitehouse.gov

Canadian Provincial GR News

BC and Partners Expand Lake Babine Nation Woodland Licence, Boosting Indigenous Forestry Role

Lake Babine Nation's woodland licence grows from 5,600 to over 126,000 hectares—roughly 10% of its territory—boosting its allowable annual cut to more than 230,000 cubic metres, or about 4,600 truckloads per year.

Sources: Provincial Announcement: news.gov.bc.ca

Ontario Announces $6.2 Million Forest Biomass Investments in Northwestern Region

Ontario has committed $6.2 million under its Forest Biomass Program to eight research, innovation, and modernization projects, aiming to expand sustainable use of forest biomass and create new markets and jobs.

Sources: Provincial Announcement: news.ontario.ca, Provincial Announcement: news.ontario.ca

Alberta Advances Circular Economy with $49 Million for 18 Waste-to-Product Projects

Alberta is investing up to $49 million via the TIER program to support 18 projects in circular economy sectors—spanning waste management, carbon utilization, critical minerals, and wood waste recovery.

Sources: Provincial Announcement: www.alberta.ca

Manitoba Launches Roadmap to Net-Zero Consultation

The Manitoba government has opened consultations on achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, inviting stakeholder feedback on emission reduction and adaptation plans until fall 2025.

Sources: Provincial Announcement: news.gov.mb.ca

Manitoba Awards Nearly $400,000 for Aquatic Invasive Species Prevention

Six organizations—including Indigenous and municipal entities—will share nearly $400,000 from Manitoba's new Aquatic Invasive Species Prevention Fund to combat mussel and aquatic weed risks.

Sources: Provincial Announcement: news.gov.mb.ca

Government Consultations

Health Canada Opens Consultations on Proposed Maximum Residue Limits for Three Pesticides

Health Canada’s Pest Management Regulatory Agency is accepting public comments until October 5, 2025, on a proposed maximum residue limit for chlorantraniliprole in food commodities.

Sources: Canadian Government Consultations: www.canada.ca

Consultation: Proposed Maximum Residue Limit for Cyantraniliprole

Written feedback on a proposed maximum residue limit for the pesticide cyantraniliprole will be accepted by Health Canada's PMRA until October 5, 2025.

Sources: Canadian Government Consultations: www.canada.ca

Consultation: Proposed Maximum Residue Limit for Fenazaquin

Health Canada’s PMRA is consulting stakeholders on a proposed maximum residue limit for fenazaquin, with the input window closing October 5, 2025.

Sources: Canadian Government Consultations: www.canada.ca

What We're Reading This Week

• Longtime lawmaker shapes the debate as Arizona grapples with dwindling water supplies: Arizona's legislative response to water scarcity may impact cross-border watershed initiatives.
• Renewable energy megaproject on Eastern Shore prepares for environmental assessment: A Nova Scotia project advances toward regulatory review, with implications for marine and bat habitat.
• Laurentian University and Cambrian College team up for a new environmental solutions program: Ontario academic institutions launch a cluster program focused on applied environmental innovation.
• First snakes, now moths — species at risk continue to delay big east Windsor project: Delays on an infrastructure project in Windsor, Ontario highlight the regulatory impacts of species-at-risk findings.
• UN court opinion on climate change could boost scrutiny of major projects: expert: An international legal opinion may tighten expectations for climate review of large Canadian developments.
• Proof of life: tracking elusive Amazon group to save their land: Remote monitoring technologies are deployed for indigenous conservation in the Amazon.
• B.C.‘s independent wood manufacturers decry retroactive U.S. softwood duties: Independent forestry firms in British Columbia respond to new U.S. softwood tariffs.
• Environmental group seeks ethics investigation into Alberta Premier Smith adviser: Calls for an ethics review target policy influence on Alberta's environmental strategy.
• Arctic birders combat impact of climate change and avian flu on delicate ecosystem: Field reports detail disruption dynamics in sensitive Arctic habitats.
• First snakes, now moths — species at risk continue to delay big east Windsor project: Species at risk findings drive infrastructure delays in Ontario’s Windsor region.

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