The Global Goals can only be met if we work together. International investments and support is needed to ensure innovative technological development, fair trade and market access, especially for developing countries. To build a better world, we need to be supportive, empathetic, inventive, passionate, and above all, cooperative. Source: Global Goals.org

Canada’s Response:

“Strengthen the means of implementation and revitalize the Global Partnership for Sustainable Development.“ Global Affairs Canada define, shape and advance Canada’s interests and values in a complex global environment. They manage diplomatic relations, promote international trade and provide consular support. They lead international development, humanitarian, and peace and security assistance efforts. They also contribute to national security and the development of international law. To read more about Canada’s role in the see these 17 key indicators that measure Canada’s commitment to SDG 17.

How are actions within our biosphere region contributing toward these goals?

Working together is at the core of the Átl’ka7tsem/Howe Sound Biosphere Region. We think globally and act locally. The mission of the Howe Sound Biosphere Region Initiative Society is to facilitate and support the organizing and planning of complex activities that bring allegiance to balancing development, conservation, and equity in the Átl’ka7tsem/Howe Sound region. Our purpose is to strengthen collaboration in Átl'ka7tsem / Howe Sound Biosphere Region. How do we do this?

Howe Sound Community Forums

IIn 2000, local governments in the region and Squamish Nation committed to Principles for Cooperation. Twice a year, the Howe Sound Community Forums occur in different host communities. Members of the forum pledged their support for the UNESCO Biosphere Region nomination. We now bring together up to 70 representatives from various non-government organizations, all three levels of government and First Nations for the day in the spring and fall of each year. The purpose is to share information, learn, network and build consensus towards sustainable development.

World Network of Biosphere Reserves

As Canada’s 19th UNESCO Biosphere Region, we are participants in the World Network of Biosphere Reserves that facilitates cooperation and exchanges at the regional and international levels. We are also members of the Canadian Biosphere Reserve Association, working with the 18 Canadian UNESCO biosphere regions towards common objectives of peace and justice through education, culture and science.

Canadian Commission for UNESCO

UNESCO Biosphere Reserves are under the authority of the Canadian Commission for UNESCO. CCUNESCO helps Canadians share knowledge locally and globally to create better societies and build peace in the minds of men and women. To do so, the Commission facilitates cooperation in education, science, culture, communication and information to address some of the most complex challenges facing the world today.  

For a complete list of all the UNSDG 17 targets, click here.

What more can we be doing or are we on track? We want to hear from you.

In developing a management plan for the Átl'ḵa7tsem/Howe Sound UNESCO Biosphere Region, we are assessing where we are in our collective vision of Life on Land in the Átl’ka7tsem/Howe Sound region for 2030, and setting priority goals and objectives. Read more here about the Nchu’ú7mut/Unity Plan.

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