Minister Jay Macdonald issued the following statement for World Environment Day.
“Today, on World Environment Day, we are reminded of the profound connection between the land, water, and people of the Northwest Territories. It is a day to reaffirm our commitment to conservation, climate resilience, and Indigenous-led stewardship, positioning the North as a global leader in environmental protection.
This year’s theme is ‘Beat Plastic Pollution.’ Protecting northern ecosystems from pollution is a critical part of stewardship. Plastic waste can affect the land, waterways, and wildlife, and it undermines the cultural and environmental values Indigenous peoples have long safeguarded. As we expand our conservation network and support sustainable land use, the Northwest Territories is committed to reducing plastic pollution through waste reduction initiatives, recycling, and community-driven stewardship programs.
The Electronics Recycling Program and E-Pilot allow residents from 12 communities to recycle more than 500 types of products across the NWT. Last year, this program and the E-Pilot successfully diverted 2.67 kg per NWT resident from local landfills.
And we can achieve more.
Last year, more than 31 million beverage containers were distributed in the NWT, but just under 22 million, or about 69%, were returned. The GNWT is working to make recycling easy and convenient for residents. In turn, residents can take steps to ensure that more of the containers they buy make it to the recycling depot. Through the Waste Reduction and Recycling Initiative, the GNWT also provides annual proposal-based funding through to support projects that reduce and recycle materials that are not yet included in NWT-wide recycling programs. Since 2014, more than $1.25 million in funding has been provided to 15 community governments, 5 Indigenous organizations, 1 Indigenous government, 5 educational institutions, 11 non-profit organizations, and 9 businesses—demonstrating a strong, shared commitment to reducing waste across the territory.
While waste reduction and recycling are important tools for protecting the environment, they are only one part of a much broader commitment to conservation and stewardship. That broader commitment was highlighted recently in the recent 2025 Auditor General’s report on Protected and Conserved Areas in the NWT which confirms that the Northwest Territories is making significant strides with nearly 16% of our territorial lands protected, a rate surpassing the national average. This achievement reflects the collaborative spirit of Indigenous governments, territorial and federal partners, and Indigenous communities, who have long been the guardians of this land.
The innovative Indigenous-led Northwest Territories Our Land for the Future initiative exemplifies how sustainable funding can empower Indigenous-led conservation efforts, ensuring that protected and conserved areas remain healthy for current and future generations. This model supports biodiversity and strengthens our resilience against the growing impacts of climate change, bringing more economic opportunities for Northerners.
On this World Environment Day, we call on Northerners and all Canadians to recognize the North’s pivotal role in climate adaptation and conservation leadership. Together, we can build a sustainable future that protects our environment, respects Indigenous knowledge, and showcases the Northwest Territories as a leader of innovation and stewardship in the face of ongoing environmental challenges.
Let us continue to work hand at hand, with determination and hope, to preserve the environment that has sustained us and keep is thriving for generations to come.”
For media requests, please contact:
Cabinet Communications
Government of the Northwest Territories
[email protected]