Canada’s security, prosperity at risk from freshwater supply challenges: memo

An internal government memo warns that challenges to Canada's freshwater supply pose risks to the country's long-term security and prosperity. Prepared for Environment Minister Julie Dabrusin, the 12-page document, obtained through the Access to Information Act, emphasizes the need to assess and improve the protection and sustainable management of Canada's freshwater resources, including those shared with the United States.

Canada has 20% of the world's surface fresh water, but only a third of it is salt-free and replenished annually through precipitation. Most of Canada's renewable surface fresh water flows northward, away from the most populated areas and economic centers near the Canada-United States border. Groundwater aquifers, which supply nearly one-third of Canadians, are inadequately mapped.

Climate change is altering water availability, and some regions may soon face restricted or depleted water supplies. Water quality issues are prevalent in many settled areas, with 51% of monitoring sites rated as fair to poor. While progress is being made to enhance water quality in large lake systems, other ecosystems remain in poor condition.

The memo highlights the urgency of developing a national water security strategy, noting that water stewardship is a shared responsibility. Transboundary waters between Canada and the United States are crucial, supporting drinking water, hydro power, navigation, recreation, irrigation, and biodiversity. As global freshwater security declines, Canada faces increasing demands and potential disputes over water resources.

However, addressing water security can generate economic opportunities, particularly in industries like hydroelectric power generation, agriculture, and digital innovation.