After five years of advocating for this special distinction, the Howe Sound/Átl’ka7tsem has been officially recognized as a world-renowned UNESCO Biosphere Region. The hard work of the Sḵwx̱wú7mesh nation and the District of Squamish has be realized with this incredible accomplishment.
Just yesterday, the Howe Sound/Átl’ka7tsem region joined the list as the 19th officially recognized Biosphere Region in Canada, and for many, this designation is long overdue. The Howe Sound Biosphere Region Initiative Society, comprised of members of the Sḵwx̱wú7mesh nation and the District of Squamish, had been advocating for five years for this special distinction.
Essentially, this designation symbolizes the unique global ecological significance of the Howe Sound/Átl’ka7tsem region. The years of sustainable development and care invested in mediating and repairing the environment degradation in the region have truly paid off. This new designation is seen as a hopeful step towards more sustainable development and environmental protection in this iconic area we all love.
The Howe Sound/Átl’ka7tsem region is 218,723 hectares of ocean and land that reaches from West Vancouver to Garibaldi Provincial Park and the Sunshine Coast. This stunning part of our coastline is home to 5 provincial parks and important marine-life zones. Originally the site of heavy pollution earlier in our province’s history, this new designation is a milestone after years of environmental advocation and protection.
The Howe Sound region is a stunning piece of the beautiful province we call home. Let’s celebrate the incredible hard work done by all the members of the Howe Sound Biosphere Region Initiative Society that made this possible!