Principle of environmental stewardship alive and well in Nunavut

DANIEL SHEWCHUK
MINISTER OF ENVIRONMENT

April 22 marks the 40th annual Earth Day, a day when global awareness is raised on environmental issues.

Earth Day is a great opportunity for us all to consider the unique and positive relationship between Nunavummiut and the environment. Our relationship with the land sets us apart from other parts of the country.

Unlike many other urban centres, where people’s lives are dominated by shopping malls, rush-hour traffic, and other modern trappings, when we look out our window, many of us feel a strong pull to be out on the land hunting, fishing, camping, or otherwise enjoying what nature has to offer.

In Nunavut, this close connection with nature is built on a tradition of respect and care. The Inuit Qaujimajatuqangit principle of Avatitinnik Kamatsiarniq, or environmental stewardship is alive and well in our communities today, and that is something we should maintain and be proud of, on Earth Day, and every day of the year.

On the news and in the media, we are hearing more and more about the need for positive environmental action. Here in the North, we are witnessing first-hand the impacts of many different environmental changes and challenges.

Without a doubt, we will be increasingly challenged to find innovative solutions to promote environmental sustainability. Combining the wisdom of the past with modern innovation will secure our future through protecting and conserving the environment on which we all depend.

Rooted in a centuries-old tradition of sustainable use of wildlife and natural resources, Avatitinnik Kamatsiarniq means showing “respect and care for the land, animals and environment.”

Although the social and environmental climate in Nunavut has changed drastically in recent years, the idea of environmental stewardship can still be seen all around us. Examples of it can be seen all across the territory.

If I were to picture a vision of Environmental Stewardship for Nunavummiut, it would involve continuing our long history of mindful and respectful subsistence from the local landscape.

This vision involves seal harvesters continuing to harvest and use as much of the seal as possible for food and clothing. It means mindful harvesting of wildlife, sharing with community members as much as possible and avoiding wastage.

It includes people all across the territory, from all sectors and walks of life, working together to preserve and protect habitat for the diverse species on which we depend. It involves individuals taking pride in the natural beauty of their communities and making a conscious commitment to keeping it clean and free of garbage.

It also includes the “three R’s”: reducing, re-using and recycling, through a combination of traditional and modern practices. These are just a few examples of how Nunavummiut are doing their part in their daily lives to demonstrate environmental sustainability. What does the present-day idea of Avatitinnik Kamatsiarniq mean to you?

This year, to celebrate Earth Day, my department is hosting an event in Iqaluit highlighting Nunavut’s unique sealing culture. Sealing and other forms of subsistence harvesting remain an important part of cultural identity and daily life for many Nunavummiut.

When harvesting seals respectfully and responsibly for food, clothing and other uses, Nunavummiut can minimize their “carbon footprint”.

As Inuit have done for centuries, making use of every part of the animal demonstrates respect for nature through non-wastage. It also significantly reduces the heavy greenhouse gas emissions that come from manufacturing and shipping goods to our communities from the South.

If you are here in Iqaluit, we encourage you to attend the event at Nakasuk School, starting at 6:30pm on April 22. There will be a feast of seal and a screening of a locally-produced film called Tajarniit, which highlights Inuit sealing culture and the importance of the seal.

To all Nunavummiut, I encourage and challenge you to find ways to celebrate and practice Avatitinnik Kamatsiarniq in your community.

Ask your elders or your local conservation officer for ideas on how you can do your part.

Even through the simple act of observing how much we value and appreciate our natural heritage, we are working towards our vision of protecting and conserving it. By building on our success and maintaining our close relationship with the land, an environmentally friendly future may be closer than we think!